What To Pack

It’s wise to use a luggage lock for all of your bags, including your backpack and carryon.  TSA approved ones allow checked baggage to be opened by security if needed.  Having a lock on your bags is an additional safety measure against pickpockets but also provides added peace of mind when leaving bags at the hotel front desk if needed. Here is a link to a standard metal lock and a link to one with a flexible cable. 

Pickpocketing is a real concern in Italy, but with awareness and preparedness, you can minimize your chances of being a victim. First, DO NOT keep anything in your pockets whether it's your back or front pant pocket, shirt pocket, or jacket pocket. Men in the U.S. are not as accustomed to carrying a bag, but I advise you to get over any issues you may have with the idea. This crossbody bag is perfect for men and women alike. It has lots of pockets, including a top phone one, is comfortable, and is also thin enough to wear under a jacket. You will love having your phone, sunglasses, wallet, keys, pen, etc. all in one place and you will have the peace of mind of knowing that your valuables are more protected.

I bought this as a larger and more stylish cross-body option. While I have other small cross-body purses that I also pack, I like this mini-backpack option for touring during the day. It keeps your phone and wallet items securely in front of you, but also has room for sunglasses, backup phone battery or charger, a small fan, small umbrella, shawl, etc. It's maybe not the best addition to an outfit, but it protects you from pickpockets!

Given how much we travel, it is a surprise to myself and others that I'm a terrible packer! I aspire to be someone who can travel with only carryon luggage, and I believe this backpack may very well help me achieve that. After ordering and inspecting numerous options, this one finally met both style and function. First, it matches the color of my lovely Delsey luggage, but most importantly, it has many compartments, including a padded laptop one and a large middle compartment, which my Delsey backpack is missing. There is enough room to pack 3-5 days of clothing, shoes, and toiletries plus all of your misc. travel items. And, lastly, it has a strap that attaches to the top of your rolling luggage. Perfect for both air and train travel.

This backpack is similar in function and quality to the other LOVEVOOK one that I have listed, but offers additional style and color options for you.

This backpack is a great option if you don't need to bring a laptop with you. I liked it's style and functionality and really liked that you can tuck away the shoulder straps when not needed. I almost kept it but needed the laptop compartment.

This backpack wins hands down for functionality. I loved everything about it - lots of small pockets, expandable large middle compartment, laptop compartment, and stowaway shoulder straps. It even comes with packing cubes and a luggage lock. It didn't have the color that worked for me, but my husband loves it.

I love the look of this luggage (very classy) but we also like its functionality, particularly, the spinner wheels that easily handle all terrain.  I have the white and my husband has the brown, and we get lots of compliments on them.  We have different suitcase sizes and I also have and like the backpack. The link is to Amazon but you can also often find it on sale at Macys.

Here is another Delsey version listed at a great value with many colorful options. I've had a number of pieces from this brand over the years and have yet to be disappointed. I've also come to prefer hard sided luggage.

My life is so much better now that packing cubes are part of it.  They are a travel game changer as you can keep organized, reduce space, and easily throw them into drawers when unpacking.  I’ve gotten different colors for each family member to further organize.  I like both the mesh ones (easier to see what’s inside and less wrinkles) and the solid compression ones (great for fluffier items).  My husband finally caved on our last trip, and he was blown away – another convert!

I highly recommend packing an extra bag as you will likely go home with more items than you brought with you (think souvenirs).  This bag folds up into a pouch and is very light weight.  During your trip, you can also use it for day trips or as a shopping bag.

Same reasoning as above foldable bag, but in backpack form.  Easy to pack and great for daytrips and hiking while you are in Italy and an extra bag for souvenirs on the way home.

This portable fan has become my new best travel friend! Great for cooling oneself while standing in line, sitting on a hot airplane/train, or to set on a table or a nightstand for hot hotel rooms and nice white noise. It can also charge your phone! This fan is small, yet powerful and has a long lifespan. PLUS, it has a flashlight and can be used as a backup power bank! You cannot go to Italy without it - trust me!

I've brought this one on a number of trips and liked being able to plug multiple devices in at the same time, either by a desk or nightstand. I recommend bringing this one plus multiple individual adaptors for more hard-to-reach outlets.

You’ll need plug adapters for all of your electrical items. I’ve most often used these as they are small and work with most Italian outlets, whether 2 or 3 pronged.  Great for bathrooms where outlets can be minimal or harder to reach.  They work better with two-prong U.S. plugs but can usually be used with a three-prong plug as well (just attach the top two).

I've now taken this on a couple of trips and am so glad I did after prior trips where we were frequently looking for outlets or nervously watching our “10% battery left” warnings. It's small and lightweight and I like that you can still talk on your phone while it's plugged in. A charged phone is so critical given we rely on them for taking photos, navigation, info sources (your trip itinerary), etc.  This makes it so easy to have backup power.

I came across this charger and have it on order to try out. I was attracted to the multiple ports and built-in cables as I hate traveling with a ton of cords. This will be a great backup for all of my devices - phone, airpods, watch, and iPad.

I recently saw this on a travel segment of the Today Show and was intrigued.  It has great reviews and it’s a good way to reduce the number of cords you pack.  Something to consider. I know my husband will want it!

My husband already uses a tag for his backpack, but after having his luggage get lost on our last trip, we will be using them for all of our bags going forward.  While it can’t help in getting your bag to you faster, at least you will know where it is.

This is a great case to keep your phone safe and still be able to take pictures while on the beach or in the water.  It can also be useful for general hands-free, secure travel.

This brand was recommended by an iPhone photography class that I’ve been taking, and it will be with me during our next trip as it’s useful to provide stability as well as enable remote photos.  They have a combo you can buy, but I like this clamp better as it comes with landscape and portrait options.  Here is the link to the tripod.  Don’t miss out on the great group photos you can take with this!

Don’t rely on your iPhone timer and the need to run into position within 10 seconds.  This remote shutter is the answer!  I learned you can also use your apple watch as a remote shutter, but this is easier in my opinion.

Nothing is worse than a noisy, long, international flight, so having good noise-cancelling headphones is critical.  I prefer my AirPod Pros, but I see many similar to these Bose ones being worn by many on the plane and they have great reviews.

I'm on a mission to find a comfortable and packable travel pillow as I'm tired of a sore neck. I didn't like the Trtl that's been all over social media, so I'm still looking. This one has great reviews so I'm going to give it a try. Stay tuned!

I’m never a fan of the airline blanket and pillow, so this is a great option as you can use it as either. It's very plush and attaches to a luggage handle if needed. Handy for plane/train travel and as a cozy throw in cold hotel rooms. Many colors available.

I never travel anymore without these compression socks.  They are very comfortable, help your legs feel more energetic, and, most importantly, keep your feet and ankles from swelling during the flight. Lots of colors available - both neutral and fun. Highly recommend!

During our last trip, I remember wondering if going to the airplane bathroom in my socks was a wise idea (ick) and later wishing I had water shoes for the pebbled beach.  These are the answer!  They can also serve as slippers for those tile/wood floors all over Italy.  Three purposes and minimal packing space! Many colors available. Click here for women’s and men’s.

I dislike the smell of the alcohol in most wipes and hand sanitizers, so love this option with lavender.

Combat dry cabin air with this hydrating spray and feel refreshed upon arrival. I love the smell!

I am that person running through the airport with a coffee in hand, phone in the other, and stopping to purchase last-minute snacks for the plane. And then wanting a place to park it all while waiting to board. This is the answer!

I’m always reluctant to pack an umbrella, but every time I don’t, it of course rains.  I end up buying an overpriced, terrible quality one from a street vendor that breaks within the hour.  I finally brought one with me during my last trip and I used it a lot and it survived two months of use and made it home with me – win! Another use is a sun shield when touring during the hotter months. Here's another option that has good reviews for UV protection and better price.

A lot of cities have fountains where you can fill up your water bottle and the hotel tap water is safe as well. Filling your own bottle is a great way to save $ and the environment while making sure you are staying hydrated in hot weather. While having a filtered bottle isn’t a must, it helps ensure great-tasting water. I also came across a collapsible option that is highly recommended.

I first bought these micro fiber towels for a trip to Hawaii and now I bring them with us whenever there is a potential for sunbathing or swimming.  They also serve as a blanket when needed for a boat ride or a picnic.  They roll up small, are lightweight and dry fast. Better than what many hotels/Airbnb’s provide. Here is another option with fun patterns.

I also came across these Turkish towels that have good reviews for being packable, quick drying, and staying sand free. A good value as well and potentially better for dual use as a blanket.

Don’t laugh, but you may need these and when that is the case, you’ll be happy to have thought to pack them!  Public and train bathrooms in Italy are not always the best maintained, so put these in your bag and thank me later! They are quite large and can be used as hand wipes as well.

These laundry sheets are lightweight and easy to throw in your bag and eliminates the need to purchase detergent there. You can use them in a machine or for sink washing. I also like these tide packets. And these stain wipes are nice to have on hand if any of the good Italian food ends up on your clothing!

I prefer to use a crossbody bag (refer to the luggage section), but pickpocketing is real, and many people use these for added peace of mind.  Here is a recommended belt one and a neck one.

Spanx has come along way since it launched its shapewear. It now offers very comfortable and fit-flattering clothing. I purchased my first AirEssential top and bottom for plane travel and am in love with the super soft and comfy fabric. It's like wearing pjs and they don't wrinkle and keep their shape. Since then, I've also fallen in love with their Perfect Pant - flattering, elastic waist, washable and doesn't wrinkle. A great pant for evening wear.

I first purchased Z Supply at Evereve and then started purchasing directly as I found I really liked their casual and comfortable style. From fit-flattering tanks, comfortable pants and fun dresses, there's plenty of mix and match options great for travel.

Athleta has so many great travel/athleisure options that it’s hard to pick, but the Brooklyn Pant is my hands-down travel favorite (and many others based on the reviews).  Easy to pack, doesn’t really wrinkle, comfortable, and can be dressed up or down as needed. The Flare Pant is also a favorite - they feel like leggings without the true legging look.

This is my favorite jean jacket and I bring it everywhere as the perfect lightweight jacket and accessory for many outfits, dresses in particular.  It’s stretchy and comfortable and hits just above the hip. Many color options too.

This is a casual button-up shirt that I’ve used as a light jacket and cover up.  It’s a thicker, yet still light-weight material, kind of gauzy.  It’s very comfortable and offered in many colors. A versatile and fun layering piece.

A great coverup option for summer months.  You’ll need to cover bare shoulders for many churches and museums, may need a light coverup at night, and it’s a great way to accessorize some the more basic travel outfits. Europeans love scarves and this is an easy way to fit in!

An easy-to-pack, yet very functional wrap.  Use it has a shawl, a scarf, or a blanket when needed. Perfect for travel!

I wasn’t initially a big fan of the belt bag (unlike my daughter and her friends), but it actually works well for Italy.  It helps keep your valuables close to you whether you wear it as a belt or over a shoulder, so why not?

I’ve become a big fan of the camera bag as it’s a safe, cross-body purse and it’s big enough for a phone, lip gloss, credit cards, and a pair of sunglasses. I love this ivory one for spring and I have the black one in a different color and it has been my go-to bag for over a year now, even when not traveling.  I really like the detachable strap as you can swap it out with other fun options such as this canvas one or this. One of our tour guides did too and asked for the link!

Don’t forget your sunglasses!  These are my current favorite. Lightweight and fit snugly on the face.  They go with everything and  I get lots of compliments on them!

If I know I’m going to be doing some hiking, biking, or other athletic activity, I like to bring a darker sneaker that can serve double duty as a fashion choice with jeans.  I have one similar to this New Balance option and have been eyeing this Adidas option.

I bought these slides on our last trip as a comfortable alternative to a loafer and dressier than a sneaker. They were very comfortable, great for casual walking, and I didn't have problems with them sliding off. Here's a cute sneaker option too.

I purchased a couple of different pairs of Sorel sandals during my last trip and loved their comfort - a sportier option and a dressier option.

Taos specializes in comfortable, travel/athletic shoes and I was happy to find one that looked a little dressier.  It was perfect for a day of strolling through villages and visiting wineries. And, here's a sportier option.

I have two different versions by Michael Kors, and they are both surprisingly comfortable.  I like the higher wedge for a little height and to dress up an outfit a bit.  I’ve worn them all day with no problem but prefer the flat version more for a full day of walking. Also, MK seems to be big in Italy.  I received lots of compliments and noticed lots of MK purses.

This is a great rain jacket and layering coat if going to Italy in the colder, rainier months. It was the only true coat I brought in the fall and it was a great length and was very versatile.

The sun in Italy can be brutal and covering your head and providing some shade to your face is important. Plus, hats are a fun accessory to a basic travel wardrobe.  Here is a foldable option and a more standard fedora option. 

My husband learned about this brand from a friend and has since purchased a lot of tops in particular, t-shirts, polo shirts and button-down. Their tops are stylish, breathable, and comfortable.

My husband first found these at an outdoor store and fell in love with them so much that I searched Amazon and found more.  Lots of different colors, comfortable and breathable. Italian men don’t really wear shorts, but the men in my life refuse to accept that concept in summer! Here's a link to more options.

My husband loves these pants for traveling and they have become his go-to pant year-round. In general, I really like the quality and comfort of Vuori clothing.

Don’t forget your sunglasses!  My husband recently purchased these and really likes them.

Cole Haan makes quality, comfortable shoes. My husband highly recommends.

Cole Haan makes quality, comfortable shoes. My husband highly recommends.

The North Face makes great gear and here is a good option if you’re going to Italy in the cooler months. You can layer as needed.

I came across this jacket and like that it’s light and packable.  A great option to bring in the warmer months for rain protection.

The sun in Italy can be brutal and covering your head and providing some shade to your face is important. Here is a traditional fedora which is popular there, but bring a baseball hat or whatever you are most comfortable in.

I love this cosmetic bag! It opens flat and has lots of compartments to keep your items organized and easy to see. No more digging around in a messy bag!

I had a toiletry bag similar to this, but it didn't have a hook and I was frequently annoyed with the lack of counter space that is typical in Italian hotel bathrooms.  This is a great solution to free up space. It comes in two sizes, but I feel the medium is large enough. It's become one of my favorite travel items and I frequently gift it to friends!

I like this foldable case and it comes in two sizes.

This is a great travel mirror! Whether it’s a bad-lighting situation or sharing-a-bathroom situation, sometimes you need to be able to put your makeup on in various locations and having a decent mirror with lighting will come in handy. I've used it a lot! And here is a compact purse-sized one that I just purchased.

I am not a person that can survive with a hotel-provided hair dryer. Nope, doesn’t work with this mane.  I always travel with one and, thankfully, they now make decent dual voltage hair dryers. I've had many over the years, but decided to try this one based on its size and good reviews. It was great and I like the ionic feature that left my hair feeling smooth and conditioned.

This is my current favorite styling tool and I’m so grateful it is dual voltage, and I can take it everywhere I travel.  It’s a curling wand and a straightener in one, so it’s perfect depending on the style you want.  I would rather sacrifice and not bring a hairdryer if necessary and use this to smooth my hair. A friend borrowed it on my last trip and immediately ordered her own when back home!

This is a great dual-voltage straightener from L’ange.

I have a tool similar to this that I use in the U.S. but don’t have an international one.  It’s a great option to a traditional hairdryer; it’s like a round brush and hairdryer all in one so great for blowouts.

I’ve been successful in finding my favorite hair products in travel size (search online or at your salon), but these are also great to fill up with your various favorite products. Here's another great option with multiple sizes.

Here are some of my favorite travel-sized products.  Image skincare products, Cerave moisturizer and lotion, retractable makeup brushes, Style-Edit root concealer (I swear by this stuff and happy to find a travel version) and a mini detangling hair brush.

While I love this scent from Chanel, I fell even more in love with the travel spray option they have.  It’s small, lightweight, and I’ve never had a leak.  The cartridges are easy to replace and are enough for longer trips.  Look for similar options from other brands.

This is my favorite hairspray and I love it even more that they created a travel-size version. It’s small enough to pack and big enough to last a couple of weeks if needed.  I’ve packed it in my carryon as well as checked baggage with no issues.

While I know the extra packaging is wasteful, I do allow myself to use these when traveling. The singles are great to throw in your purse, backpack, and carryon because you never know when you might want to wash your face while traveling (airplane or train, after a day of touring, beach, etc.). Very handy!

This beats bringing all of your different vitamin and prescription bottles or dumping a bunch in a Ziploc bag  I looked at the cases with daily dividers, but if you’re gone for two weeks, that’s cumbersome. This is a great solution to separate the different pills and bring enough for your length of trip.

I don’t know that you need to purchase a full-blown first-aid kit, but I repurpose one of my makeup bags and stock it with multiple-sized Band-Aids (think blisters), a tweezers (slivers), wound ointment, insect bite lotion, Benadryl, motion-sickness meds, Imodium, ibuprofen, melatonin, Tylenol p.m., cough drops and any other over-the-counter meds you think you might need.  Someone is bound to get a small injury or come down with something and while there are pharmacies in Italy, all of the products are slightly different and may not be in English.