What To Pack For Italy: 10 Things You Need To Bring

Wondering what to pack for Italy? If you’re heading on your dream Italian vacation soon, you’ll need to know what items should be on your packing list.

No matter what time of year, or which region you’re visiting in Italy, these are 10 items you can’t forget to bring along! Buon Viaggio!

#1. A European Power Converter

One of the most important things you’ll need straight away when you arrive in Italy, is a way to charge your phone. You don’t want to be stranded at the airport without the ability to power up after a long flight!

My favorite travel convertors have USB plugs so that I can charge my phone and camera batteries at the same time. You can also use an adapter for some low voltage items. Just be sure to double check the voltage required for devices like hair tools before using them in Italy with your converter!

#2. A Reusable Water Bottle

There’s nothing better than taking a break from your Italian sightseeing, to sip some cold spring water. Italy is well known for amazing “acqua” (so many natural springs!) and these public water fountains are the perfect way to cool down on a hot day.

Add a water bottle to your list of what pack for italy, and refill it in one of the picture perfect drinking fountains. This one behind the fountain at the Pantheon, is among the most beautiful fountains in Rome.

#3. A Pair of Comfy Travel Flats

Comfortable shoes are a must in Italy, but it’s not always easy to stay stylish on cobblestone streets.

My go to travel shoes are Rothy’s because they NEVER rub (so important when you’re walking around for hours), and they’re easy to wash. You can even throw them in the washing machine, which is a lifesaver for long travel days.

To top it off, Rothy’s are sustainably made from recycled water bottles, so can definitely feel good about wearing these shoes on your travels. Try Rothy’s out for yourself with $40 off your first pair using this promo link: https://share.rothys.com/x/NXmQg0

#4. A Lightweight Scarf

Scarves can be a lifesaver while you travel. Besides making a fashion statement, there are a TON of other reasons you should pack one for Italy!

Use it to cover your shoulders after the sun goes down, or before you go into a beautiful Italian church. Roll it up to make a pillow in a pinch on the train, or as an impromptu blanket when enjoying one of Italy’s most beautiful public parks.

#5. A Rain Jacket & Umbrella

While rain isn’t the norm in Italy, showers there can be pretty strong! When stormy weather hits, it’s always nice not to pay a premium for rain gear last minute.

Invest in an a lightweight rain shell that you can also use as a light jacket, or a compact umbrella to tote around while you travel Italy. You’ll be glad you thought of it before you left!

#6. Some Cash Euros

They say Cash is King, and that is certainly still true in Italy. While you can certainly pay at most restaurants and shops with a card, it is great to have a reasonable amount of cash with you too.

Some places in Italy have a minimum purchase requirement to charge a credit card, and depending on your bank, you may have to pay annoying foreign transaction fees.

Get a card that lets you withdraw from partner ATMs in Italy, or visit a bank before leaving to take some cash with you. You may even be able to bargain for better deals from vendors with cash on hand!

#7. An Italian Guidebook or Phrasebook

It’s always polite when visiting a new country to know some of the language, and Italians really appreciate this gesture from visitors.

Learn some of the basics of Italian with a phrasebook, or Italian guide. You can find ebooks as well if you don’t want to carry around a hard copy. These guides will share some relevant cultural tidbits and suggestions for everyday Italian you can use on your trip!

#8. A Rechargeable Power Bank

Power banks are another item you don’t want to leave out, when deciding what to pack for Italy. For many travelers, our phones aren’t just taking pictures, they’re also guiding us around!

There is nothing worse than having to hunt around for a place to charge your phone during a long day of sightseeing in Italy. Having a powerbank on hand will help you avoid any annoying delays in your day.

#9. A Travel Journal

I always keep a journal during my travels, and even if you aren’t the writing type, I always recommend adding this on your “What to pack for Italy” list.

A journal really helps me plan out things I want to see, stores my travel /flight information, and acts as a folder for papers and knick knacks I pick up along the way.

I still cherish the notebooks years later, that I used to doodle in during long train rides, or write down my thoughts after an action packed day. Definitely bring one along for your trip to Italy!

#10. A Cross Body Bag

The final thing that should make it onto your Italy packing list is a crossbody bag to use while you travel. They’re not only stylish and study, but they help you stay hands free while sightseeing.

I also really recommend crossbody bags because it’s easy for you to keep your eyes on them in crowded spaces. Backpacks and large totes are easy for pickpockets to get into, and with a crossbody facing front, you can keep your eyes and hands on your stuff at all times!

Thanks for reading this roundup of my ten must have items to pack for Italy!

I hope you enjoyed these ideas, and that these tips will really help you to get the most out of your Italian vacation!

Wondering what to see, or do while you’re in the “Bel Paese?” Check out my Travel Guides, for ideas of fun things to do in Italy. I’ve shared some of my favorite places to visit in the most charming country of all!