Planning a trip to Italy? I’ve scoured dozens of travel forums such as Reddit to compile this essential list of items that experienced travelers wish they had packed.
These aren’t your obvious essentials—these are the game-changing items that can make the difference between a good trip and an exceptional one.
Italy Packing List: What You Are Forgetting
These 20 often-overlooked items will help you navigate Italy’s unique challenges like a seasoned traveler rather than a frustrated tourist.
1. Comfy Thick-Soled Walking Shoes
Italian cities are filled with cobblestone streets, uneven surfaces, and plenty of hills.
Regular cheap sneakers won’t cut it – you need shoes with thick soles and good grip. Also make sure that you have worn out any new shoes to prevent getting blisters.
2. Pickpocket-Proof Backpack/Sling Bag
Tourist areas can be prime spots for pickpockets. A cross-body bag is cooler than a backpack and easier in crowds.
Look for anti-theft features like slash-resistant straps and secure zippers, or simply add zipper clips to your current bag for extra security.
3. Multi-Port International Adapter
Italian outlets use Type F/L plugs, and older buildings often have limited outlets.
A compact adapter with multiple USB ports lets you charge several devices simultaneously. I also recommend bringing a few of these.
Purchase a Travel Adapter with USB Ports from Amazon here.
4. Personal Medication Kit
Over-the-counter medications are only available in pharmacies in Italy, and can be expensive.
Pack essentials like pain relievers, antacids, allergy medication, and any prescriptions you need.
5. Travel Laundry Kit
Detergent sheets and a portable clothesline allow you to wash clothes in your accommodation sink.
Especially useful for trips longer than a week, or when you are traveling in the European summer (everything gets so sweaty!).
Purchase Laundry Sheets from Amazon here.
6. Compact Water Bottle (0.5L)
Stay hydrated without spending money on bottled water.
Choose a lightweight 0.5L bottle (insulated for summer trips) as larger bottles may not be allowed in museums and galleries.
Consider one with a built-in filter for peace of mind.
7. Versatile Scarf or Shawl
A lightweight scarf serves multiple purposes: covering shoulders when visiting churches, providing warmth on cool evenings, serving as a picnic blanket, or beach blanket.
Wear it as a hair accessory when exploring, then quickly repurpose it when needed elsewhere.
8. Lightweight Shopping/Beach Bag
A lightweight, packable tote makes market shopping easier and doubles as an impromptu beach bag or day pack.
9. Water Shoes
Many of Italy’s beautiful beaches are rocky or pebbly rather than sandy, making water shoes essential for comfortable swimming.
10. Packable Washcloth
Italian hotels typically don’t provide washcloths. Bring your own if you’re accustomed to using them.
They’re also handy for wiping sweat away during hot summer sightseeing.
11. Portable Handheld/Neck Fan
This is one of the most recommended tips from Reddit forum. Italian summers can be brutally hot, especially in cities like Rome and Florence.
A small portable fan (handheld or these nifty neck ones) provides blessed relief while waiting in lines or exploring sites with limited shade or air conditioning.
12. Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes can be prevalent, particularly near water and during summer evenings. Pack repellent wipes, spray, or bracelets to avoid itchy bites.
13. Compact Travel Umbrella
Serves double duty for unexpected rain showers and as portable shade on scorching days.
Particularly useful at exposed archaeological sites like Pompeii or the Roman Forum where shade is minimal.
14. High-Capacity Power Bank
Long sightseeing days using phone navigation, taking photos, and looking up information can quickly drain your battery.
15. Travel Pack of Tissues
Small tissue packs are essential for public restrooms as they don’t always provide toilet paper in Italy.
16. Church-Appropriate Clothing
Many religious sites require covered shoulders and knees for both men and women.
Pack lightweight, modest options that can be easily layered or removed as you move between religious and secular attractions.
17. Anti-Chafing Cream
Anti-chafing cream or balm prevents discomfort and skin irritation that comes from walking for hours in hot, humid conditions.
18. Sun Protection Trio
The Mediterranean sun is stronger than many travelers expect.
Pack high-SPF sunscreen, a brimmed hat, and quality sunglasses to prevent painful sunburns and sun damage during long days outdoors.
19. Smartphone Flash Drive
Italy’s photogenic landscapes and monuments will fill your phone storage quickly.
A flash drive compatible with your smartphone allows you to back up photos and free up space without relying on cloud uploads.
20. Quality Earplugs
Many accommodations in Italian cities are centrally located near lively piazzas, restaurants, and bars.
Good earplugs can ensure a restful night’s sleep despite the evening revelry or early morning deliveries happening outside your window.
Final Thoughts on Your Italy Packing List: What You Might Be Forgetting
These often-overlooked essentials address Italy’s unique challenges of hot weather, varied terrain, and cultural norms.
Remember that being prepared doesn’t mean overpacking—it means packing smart with items that will solve real problems you’ll encounter.
Additional Reading:
Explore our blog for dozens more articles about traveling in Italy, from regional guides to insider tips from experienced travelers.
