TALK TO US             

Byways of Italy is a young Italian company specialized in creating unconventional travel itineraries off the beaten paths.

Discover more
Browse by category
Search

WHAT TO PACK FOR ITALY: THE COMPLETE GUIDE (with tips and seasons)

Whether you’re headed to charming Tuscany or planning to take long strolls in the ancient city of Rome, or exploring minor destinations and quaint villages in the Sardinia Island or Umbria region, there are a few essentials you must take into account when packing for Italy (if Italy is calling but you haven’t book your next adventure yet, get started now with how to plan a trip to Italy).

We know that sometimes, deciding what to bring, can be a little challenging. Our clients often ask us what's the best way to pack. So, here we are going to share our personal top packing tips for Italy

Let’s start with some general rules... are you ready for a hassle-free epic journey?
Let’s break this down:

  • What shoes to pack? Comfortable casual shoes. Cobblestone alleys and staircases are very common in Italy. Be prepared to walk around more than usual and consider that you’ll be spending some time outside for food, shopping, sightseeing, and activities
  • What clothes to pack? A good rule of thumb is to pack clothes that are versatile and comfortable for walking. Check the weather first and then think about the activities you are planning to do on holiday like hiking, excursions, food tastings, and romantic dinner? Choose no more than two outfits for each activity (better if made up by interchangeable clothing pieces) and voilà you are done. If you need something else no worries, Italy’s markets are simply amazing, just buy local!
  • What to bring: suitcase, carry-on bags, tote bag? If you pack for a 10-day trip or for 2 weeks in Italy you’ll likely need all of them. If you are going to spend just a few days or anyway less than 5 days then pack light. You’ll probably want something easy to pick up and a backpack for daily excursions
electronics trip to italy
  • Electronics like mobile phones, cameras, power banks (to avoid worrying about battery usage) and travel adapters must be on the packing list
  • Never forget to bring documents and cash with you. Passport, visa, travel insurance (when needed), cash and credit cards are all travel essentials
  • Toiletries and a reusable water bottle (you can easily find tap water in Italy so, let’s save some plastics)

At this point you might be stuck pondering the question of questions, ok but what about the season? We all know that Italy has one of the best Mediterranean climates we all love but in order to enjoy the fun and avoid nasty surprises…

Let’s pack smart! And dig a little deeper - Yes, this article covers it all! (not sure about what is the best period to travel to Italy? check Byways of Italy's suggestions for when to travel to Italy)

WHAT TO PACK FOR ITALY IN SUMMER

Depending on your destination, summer can be very hot and sometimes humid. Think about it, sun, beach, and ice cream. What to pack for Italy in June, July and August?
It’s easy! Swimwear, flip-flops, towel, shorts and of course sunglasses, a must-have for your Italian summer. We also recommend you bring insect repellent.

Also, remember to bring sunscreen for your skin, a water bottle to get hydrated, and a nice hat to protect your face and neck... maybe you'll need it as you walk down the Lungomare in Alghero or as you take a breathtaking stroll along the Como Lake.

summer trip to italy

WHAT TO PACK FOR ITALY IN SPRING

Spring is surely one of the best seasons for visiting Italy. The weather is pleasant and breezy and it’s the perfect time for sightseeing.
A couple of things to keep in mind when packing things in March, April and May: if you plan to do some cultural visits bring a shawl (to enter religious sites), trekking shoes for hiking and excursions, and a raincoat.

Also if you plan to chill in an Agriturismo (the typical Italian farm-house), maybe in Val d'Orcia enjoying a fine glass of Brunello, bring more layers to cover up. Nothing is better than a warm and enveloping pashmina at night while being under the stars surrounded by nature.

WHAT TO PACK FOR ITALY IN THE FALL

Fall in Italy is the season of lovely temperatures. Wondering why? The weather is nice, windy and sometimes rainy.
But above all, autumn is the season of harvesting and local events. No wonder lots of people choose to visit villages close to big cities like Rome and Naples. In the so-called wonderful Ciociaria for instance (located halfway between the two cities), an area rich in historical Acropolis and majestic Abbeys, autumn is celebrated with lots of traditional food festivals.

What to wear for holiday in September, October and November? Boots, a rain coat, and a travel umbrella should never be missing. In the northern area of the Country, forests get dressed in for foliage and the weather is colder. All you need to have on hand is a good scarf, a warmer jacket and some extra layers, just in case.

WHAT TO PACK FOR ITALY IN WINTER

December, January and February packing list in a nutshell: waterproof jacket, winter coat, warm hat, scarf and gloves. Bringing the right gear is the key to coping with the dry weather and the coldest days. In some northern regions, the temperatures drop below zero, while the central and southern parts of Italy enjoy mild winters.

In case you might be asking yourself, yes, it is the perfect season for winter sports lovers but also for exploring charming little villages off the beaten path like Civita di Bagnoregio and spending some relaxing days pampered by winery experiences and thermal waters in Tuscia

Can’t wait to discover Italy through unconventional lenses? Contact us to help you get oriented.


At Byways of Italy, we design and plan travel itineraries off the beaten path with passion and care for couples, families, small groups or solo travelers. We are a local tour operator and DMC, contact us at info@bywaysofitaly.com to design your bespoke itinerary or get inspired by our all-inclusive holiday tours.   

Do you want to keep up to date on the latest travel ideas?

Sign up to our newsletter!

Get every month the best travel ideas, tips and fun facts about Italy and the most exclusive deals that will inspire you for your next Italian trip or just to dream a little

Subscribe here

Byways of Italy is a young Italian company specialized in creating unconventional travel itineraries off the beaten paths.

© 2024 Byways of Italy | VAT 16262181007 | Privacy Policy | Brand & Web design Miel Café Design
envelopephonecrossmenu