Your Italy Packing List!

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If you’ve got a dream Italian getaway in the works, you’re probably wondering what you should bring with you and what you can leave at home. I’ve got you covered! Here I’m including my best tips for creating your Italy packing list, so you’ll feel right at home from the moment you step off the plane.

To help get you started, I’ve created this free Italy Packing List download for you.

Wherever you’re going in the country, and whatever time of year you plan to travel, I can help you refine your packing list and so much more. As a custom-itinerary designer with expertise crafting travel throughout Italy, I can arrange transportation, lodging, reservations, special event tickets, perks, day trips, and anything else you can think of.

When in Rome (or anywhere in Italy)…

If you’re curious about what most Italians have in their closets, or if you’re wondering what you should avoid wearing, check out Part 1 of this series. Many people are surprised that Italy has dress codes in churches, chapels, and some other public spaces — so be sure to know ahead of time so you can pack appropriately!

In this post, I’ll break down packing lists for him, for her, and for kids, plus a special section that briefly covers the non-clothing items you don’t want to forget.

Italy Packing List for Him

A man dressed in layers as he walks along the Tiber River in Rome.

If you’re a guy who appreciates some of the finer things, you will feel right at home in Italy. Even casual outfits in Italy have a certain intentionality to them. Outfits certainly don’t need to be expensive, fancy, or ostentatious — in fact, much of Italian style is quite understated — but you’ll notice right away that Italian men enjoy putting some thought into what they wear.

Here are a few essentials you’ll definitely want to bring:

  1. Tailored chinos or nice jeans: Opt for tailored chinos in light colors such as beige, light gray, or pastel tones. These can be dressed up or down, making them versatile for various occasions. Jeans are fine for casual daywear, but think more fitted, darker denim, and no rips.
  2. Collared shirts: Long-sleeved or short-sleeved collared shirts in breathable fabrics are perfect for milder temps. Light patterns or solid colors work well.
  3. Lightweight jacket: A stylish lightweight jacket, maybe in suede or a cotton blend, is ideal for cooler evenings. Choose earthy tones that you can easily wear with multiple outfits.
  4. Loafers or stylish sneakers: Keep it comfortable but refined. Italians appreciate footwear that adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.

Things you can skip: Oversized t-shirts and sweatshirts, sweatpants, ripped jeans, bulky running shoes (unless you’re a runner, of course), puffy jackets, sandals with socks.

When the weather is very hot (or if you decide to visit, say, the Amalfi Coast in summer): Flip-flops are great for the beach, and shorts are fine during the day as long as they’re not too short. Stick with breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. In the evenings, men will usually be wearing long pants, unless it’s casual al fresco dining by the sea.

When the weather is cooler (or if you decide to visit the gorgeous mountains): Again, plan for layers — a thin wool base layer, a sweater, and a stylish wool jacket. If you plan to hit the slopes, then, of course, winter sports gear is what you’ll need.

Something new you can try: Men in Italy wear scarves, both as stylish accessories and for warmth in cool weather. And you’ll blend right in with an efficient cross-body bag instead of a bulky backpack.

Italy Packing List for Her

A woman standing in front of the ocean while wearing a summer dress.

You’ll see a wide variety of styles on women, from the very feminine to the sleek and bold. Whatever you decide feels right for you, here are a few basics to include in your suitcase:

  1. Dresses and skirts in breathable fabrics. Depending on the season, you might opt for light and flowy, or a wool skirt with boots and tights. In Spring, floral patterns and pastels are common. Midi or maxi lengths are the most common, offering versatility while still remaining sophisticated and adhering to dress codes.
  2. Crisp shirts or blouses. Even in a simple t-shirt, you might find that Italians just feel more dressed up, and a big part of that is tailoring and fit. Whether it’s a collared white Oxford button-down, or a flowy blouse, you won’t see bulky or oversized shirts. Cotton, wool, and linen are great for travel and for comfort, and neutral tones that can easily be mixed and matched with various outfits will mean more options with fewer pieces.
  3. Tailored pants, dark denim, and straight-leg or boot-cut jeans. Again, think of the baseline of “casual” as slightly elevated from US standards. Cotton, linen, or wool trousers are common, depending on the season. Nice jeans are just fine during the day, but you’ll find that Italians don’t generally wear ripped or highly distressed jeans.
  4. Loafers, ballet flats, or stylish sneakers. Just like with men, Italian women appreciate good footwear that can go from day to evening. Heels aren’t practical for walking around, of course, but if you like them, you can pack a pair for a special night out.
  5. Lightweight jackets. A belted trench coat, a smart wool jacket, or a stylish outer layer in a cotton blend — just something that’s easy to slip on and off when the temps change or you need a little extra coziness.

Things you can skip: Sweatpants or yoga pants (unless you’re doing yoga, of course), bulky running shoes (unless you’re running), oversized t-shirts and sweatshirts, ripped jeans, short-shorts, flip flops (unless you’re at the beach), Crocs, bulky backpacks (cross-body bags are much more comfortable and practical).

For hot weather: Go for lightweight, breathable shirts, skirts, dresses, shorts, or pants. Linen and cotton will be most comfy. Sandals are great, as long as they’re comfortable enough for walking. Especially on the coast, bold sun hats are a great accessory you’ll see everywhere, and they’ll also protect you from the intense summer sun.

For cooler weather: Layers are the way to go! Cashmere sweaters, shawls, leather boots, and soft gloves are great additions, as well.

Something new you can try: Statement sunglasses — think Sophia Loren lounging effortlessly on the Amalfi Coast or Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday. If you’ve been secretly wishing for a bolder entrance, statement sunglasses can bring out the glam and confidence.

Cassie’s Tip: In the winter, coastal areas, like Venice or the Amalfi, can experience rainier and a bit windier days. If you plan to visit any of these amazing places, be sure to check the weather ahead of your trip to ensure you pack appropriately.

Italy Packing List for Kids

A little girl and her mom packing a suitcase for their trip to Italy.

Especially if you’re going to be doing a lot of walking, you’re going to want to maximize comfort. The good news is that most kids’ clothing is built for just this purpose. Here’s a great way to keep it simple and still blend in with the locals:

  1. A variety of simple, short- and long-sleeved t-shirts. Go for plain, solid colors that can easily mix and match. Polo shirts work great, as well.
  2. Nice jeans or chinos. Keep it comfy and simple.
  3. Closed-toed shoes with good tread. Keep it sturdy and comfortable for lots of walking.
  4. A couple of dressier outfits. If you’ve got some nice evenings planned, pack a couple of dressier items — a nice dress, shirt and skirt, or chinos and a button-down shirt or nice sweater, and nicer shoes are all easy options.
  5. Layers to be weather-ready. Just as with grown-ups, kids should have layers they can add or shed to stay comfy when the temperatures or weather changes, especially if you’re planning on outdoor activities like hiking or biking. Opt for things like sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, warm underlayers, wind- and water-resistant jackets, warm socks. Clothing made from soft cotton or wool (that isn’t itchy!) are both great options.

Cassie’s Tip: If you’ve ever tended to kids, you know: they are messy. So skip anything too fussy and build your Italy packing list for your kids with a focus on ease, so that dressing the kids is a low-stress, low-mental-load activity. Go for things that are easy to launder, easy to switch out if there’s a spill, and easy to take on and off for comfort.

What else should be on your Italy Packing List?

Woman packing her suitcase with travel essentials. There is a case with her phone accessories and another case with toiletries.

Here’s just a quick rundown of some non-clothing essentials you’re going to want to have before you leave:

  • Basic toiletries, including any medications (and possible refills) you’ll need. Keep in mind that it’s not hard to buy basics if you need them, so you don’t need to pack a giant bottle of shampoo, for example.

  • Essential electronics, plus any outlet adapters you might need. Be sure to check with your phone provider about data usage and restrictions before you leave!

  • Travel documents, including passports, immunization records, any important medical or allergy information (in case you wind up in a doctor’s office for some reason), your custom-designed itinerary (which will include dates, times, directions, and reservation numbers), insurance info, any phone numbers you might need in case of emergency, and of course my info!

  • A carry-on that can get you through an overnight if you need it. Luggage gets lost or delayed, so making sure everyone has just what they need if you wind up having to wait a day for your bags to arrive is a lifesaver. Soap, lotion, toothbrush and paste, contact solution, deodorant, meds, change of underwear — you get the idea. If you’re traveling with kids, a change of clothes is a good idea in case of accidents.

  • Items that promote decent sleep on a plane. This can be anything from a good travel pillow, eye mask, and a small blanket to noise-canceling headphones, sleep meditations, or meds. It’s worth it to start off your vacation with some good shut-eye under your belt.

An Italy packing list you can get excited about

Italian fashion is a lot of fun, and many of my clients have told me they enjoyed getting into the breezy, sophisticated, simple way that Italians approach their wardrobes.

With a sense of adventure and an open mind, you can assemble a packing list that will be as practical as it is fabulous. And of course, there’s so much great shopping in Italy that you might come home with a few new pieces to love.

With a custom-designed itinerary, you’ll know ahead of time exactly what you need, so packing can be low-stress and way more exciting. I can’t wait to see you in your statement sunglasses!

Cassie Tetro smiling with a gelato cone from Gunther Gelato in Rome.

Cassie Tetro
Itinerary Designer
& Certified Travel Expert
(Paris, London & Rome)

WHO AM I?

I’m Cassie Tetro, an Itinerary Designer and Certified Travel Expert for Paris, London, and Rome — my three favorite cities! 

I help independent travelers like you save time and eliminate confusion with customized point-to-point itineraries crafted to your interests, preferences, travel pace, and style. 

I take care of every aspect of your trip before you walk out your front door — tickets, reservations, tours, maps, transportation — so you can relax, soak in the magic, and enjoy a frustration-free vacation with a travel plan that’s as unique as you are.

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