How to Pack for Travel in Italy in 2024 👌
Special guest post from Sarah Murdoch, tour guide and packing expert
I’m excited to share with you this week a special guest post from Sarah Murdoch of Adventures with Sarah. Sarah is a tour guide who for over 20 years has been leading groups around the world and as therefore learned a thing or two about packing!
It is here that Sarah spends most of her time when guiding and considers Italy her second home. I recommend you follow her on Substack for special travel insights and more tips like this week’s post!
Packing for travel in Italy can be a challenge, especially if you plan to visit during the shoulder seasons and explore multiple regions. Italy’s diverse climate ranges from the sandy Mediterranean beaches in the south to the snowy Alpine peaks in the north. Each area requires careful planning and thoughtful packing.Â
After 30 years of traveling across the country, I have packing down to almost a science, but even then I still find myself second-guessing my choices before each trip. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get ready for your Italian adventure this year:
When Are You Going to Italy?
While Italy is often imagined as perpetually sunny, it is highly seasonal. Summer temperatures can be scorching, especially in southern regions like Calabria and Puglia, while winters can be surprisingly cold, even in seemingly warm destinations such as Sicily. In contrast, northern Italy, particularly the Alpine regions and the Po Valley, can experience sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfalls.
Spring and fall are the most popular travel periods, known for their milder weather, but both can also be unpredictable. Spring often brings rain showers, and the temperatures can fluctuate significantly from day to night. In fall, the evenings may turn chilly, particularly in central and northern regions.
Where Are You Going in Italy?
Italy’s geographic diversity plays a significant role in what you’ll need to pack. If your itinerary covers the Alpine region, such as the Dolomites, you’ll require sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, and waterproof gear.Â
Meanwhile, exploring the Amalfi Coast or Sardinia may call for swimsuits, sunglasses, and sandals. Coastal regions like Liguria can be damp and windy, while cities like Rome or Florence demand attire that’s both comfortable for walking and stylish enough to blend in.
When planning to visit a variety of regions across Italy, it’s essential to strategize by layering and selecting versatile pieces. Try to coordinate a wardrobe that can adapt to varied temperatures and weather conditions.
Regardless of where you are going, there is one item that you must absolutely pack for any trip to Italy - read on to discover what this is!
What Are You Doing in Italy?
The activities you plan also heavily influence your packing list. Cultural excursions, such as opera performances at Milan’s La Scala or exploring the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, require smart-casual or semi-formal attire.
On the other hand, vineyard tours in Tuscany, hiking the Sentiero degli Dei on the Amalfi Coast, or visiting archaeological sites like Pompeii will call for practical, durable clothing that can handle more wear.
Moreover, if your trip involves a mix of city sightseeing and countryside activities, be sure to pack footwear that can handle different terrains. For instance, cobblestone streets can be slippery and challenging in poorly chosen shoes, so bring something with a good grip.Â
I’ll be publishing a guide to choosing the right shoe for travel very soon - keep an eye on my blog here:
How to Blend in with the Locals
Italians are known for their style consciousness, favoring a more formal appearance compared to most American travelers. Although you need not dress exactly like an Italian, it’s worth noting that certain wardrobe choices will help you blend in.Â
My must-pack item for any trip to Italy is a scarf. Women are required throughout the country to cover their shoulders and chest when visiting churches. Scarves give you an easy way to respect this custom and double as stylish add-ons and practical windbreakers to any outfit. The latter applies for men also!Â
Avoid bright athletic wear, loud patterns, or overly casual outfits like yoga pants and sweatshirts. Instead, pack versatile pieces that can easily be dressed up or down.
Don’t forget to subscribe to Sarah’s Substack if you find this kind of content insightful!
My Packing List
When packing for a 10-day trip to Italy in spring or fall, prioritize layers to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day. Opt for neutral colors to maximize mix-and-match options and use this list as a template, changing to suit your needs where required:
Tops:
Two short-sleeved or sleeveless tops
Two long-sleeved shirts
One cardigan sweater
Bottoms:
Two or three pairs of pants in neutral colors
A dress or skirt (long enough to cover your knees in churches)
Leggings, which can be worn alone or layered
Underwear:
Seven pairs of underwear
Two or three bras
Four pairs of socks
Footwear:
One pair of good walking shoes (neutral-colored athletic shoes are acceptable)
One pair of sandals or slip-on shoes
One pair of more-formal shoes or boots, if space allows
Everything else:
A colorful scarf
Simple toiletry kit (basic toiletries are available at local pharmacies)
Toothbrush, hairbrush
Phone, chargers, headphones
Passport
Credit cards and debit cards (bring a mix in case of ATM issues)
Waterproof jacket and/or umbrella
Additional Items for Summer Travel:
Swimsuit
Sunscreen
Quick-dry towel or sarong for the beach
Water shoes
Shorts (optional but increasingly acceptable)
Additional Items for Winter Travel:
Warm coat
Cozy hat
Gloves
Boots or warm shoes instead of sandals
Second, warmer scarf
Have you own packing tip or must-pack item? Let me know in this week’s exclusive Subscriber chat!
More General Packing Tips:
Consider packing a collapsible duffle bag for souvenirs. Italy offers irresistible treats like artisanal pottery, leather goods (like the gorgeous books below!), and gourmet delicacies.
Dressing comfortably is key. You don’t need an excessive number of outfits but should prioritize a few versatile pieces suitable for different occasions.
Be prepared for unexpected weather changes. Italy’s beauty is in its unpredictability, so plan ahead to ensure that you can fully enjoy the journey.
The best advice I can offer after decades of travel in Italy is to pack light and smartly. You can find anything you need there, often at a higher quality.
So, focus on essentials, and remember to leave room for spontaneity and indulgence as you explore la dolce vita!