Planning a trip to Italy involves more than booking flights and hotels—it’s also about knowing what to pack and how to dress so you stay comfortable, stylish, and prepared for any situation.
Whether you’re visiting Rome, Florence, Venice, or the Italian countryside, this 2026 Italy vacation packing list will help you pack efficiently and confidently.
From clothing and accessories to travel essentials and seasonal tips, we cover everything you need to enjoy your trip without stress.
Follow this and you will look like you have been sipping an espresso at the local café your whole life:
For a complete guide to planning your Italy adventure, check out our Planning a Trip to Italy 2026 blog.
General Tips for Packing in Italy
- Layer clothing: mornings and evenings can be cool, afternoons warm
- Neutral colors like black, beige, or gray are versatile and stylish
- Cashmere scarves are recommended for both men and women
- Leather or suede jackets, shoes, and accessories elevate your look
- Comfortable yet stylish shoes are essential for walking on cobblestones
- Avoid athletic clothing, sneakers, or shorts for city sightseeing
Italy Travel Packing List – Women
- Black pants and skirts
- 1–2 cashmere or wool sweaters
- 1–2 dressy tops for evening dinners
- Simple jewelry (e.g., pearl earrings)
- Rain-repellent jacket or coat
- Comfortable walking shoes and an optional second pair
- Scarf or pashmina for layering
Italy Travel Packing List – Men
- Long pants (shorts only for beach destinations)
- Collared shirts and casual button-downs
- Wool or cashmere sweaters
- Vest for layering
- Optional sport jacket for style
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Stylish casual outfits for cities like Como or Tuscany
Travel Essentials for Italy
- Passport, visa(s), and travel documents
- Copies of passport in carry-on luggage
- ATM/debit/credit cards and PIN codes
- Money belt or secure travel pouch
- Travel insurance documents
- Smartphone with global roaming or local SIM
- International adapter/converter for electronics
- Lightweight luggage tags with contact info
- Clothing and Accessories
- Enough underwear and socks to avoid frequent laundry
- Warm sweater or jacket for evenings
- Swimwear for beaches or hotel pools
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat
- Insect repellent for rural areas
- Thermal layers for Alpine regions or winter trips
- Lightweight raincoat or small umbrella
- Footwear
- Comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles
- Dress shoes or sandals for evenings
- Non-slip socks that double as slippers for accommodations
Cultural and Religious Sites
- Cover shoulders and knees in churches, cathedrals, and religious sites
- Gentlemen: long pants recommended; convertible pants optional
- Ladies: bring a pareo or scarf for modesty
- Backpacks may be restricted in some locations
Toiletries and Health Essentials
- Travel-sized toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, deodorant, razor)
- Prescription medications with original containers and copies of prescriptions
- Motion sickness remedies, band-aids, and first aid items
- Glasses or contact lenses with a backup pair
- Technology and Travel Tools
- Camera or smartphone with extra memory and batteries
- Charging cables and portable power bank
- Travel alarm clock (optional)
- Travel apps for maps, translation, and train schedules
Money and Security
- Carry cash and cards in separate places
- Keep emergency bills hidden on your person
- Use a money belt or secure pocket for valuables
- Pack a small set of essentials in hand luggage in case checked luggage is delayed
Packing and Organization Tips
- Roll clothes to reduce wrinkles
- Layer plastic bags between folded items for delicate fabrics
- Make a checklist of items in checked luggage
- Place contact info inside luggage and hand luggage
- Bring a small mending kit and travel laundry soap
Seasonal Packing Notes
- Spring/Fall: Pack for unpredictable weather, including rain and warm days
- Summer: Lightweight, breathable fabrics; sun protection is essential
- Winter: Thermal layers, warm coats, scarves, hats, and gloves; expect cold, rainy weather
This Italy vacation packing list for 2026 is designed for style, comfort, and practicality, helping you enjoy your trip with ease.
Italy Vacation Packing FAQs
A complete Italy packing list depends on the season, destinations, and your style preferences. Essentials include layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a rain jacket, travel documents, and tech accessories. Our full packing guide covers clothing, footwear, travel essentials, and seasonal tips.
Italy favors casual yet stylish outfits. Neutral colors, cashmere or wool layers, leather shoes, and scarves work well. Avoid athletic wear, sneakers, or shorts in cities. For cultural or religious sites, ensure shoulders and knees are covered.
Yes. A money belt or secure travel pouch is recommended for passports, cash, and cards, especially in crowded cities and train stations. Carry some emergency cash separately for safety.
Spring/Fall: Layered clothing for variable weather and occasional rain
Summer: Lightweight, breathable fabrics, sun protection
Winter: Warm layers, coats, hats, gloves, and waterproof shoes
Italy uses 220V, 50Hz electricity with type C, F, or L plugs. Bring an adapter/converter for electronics, plus charging cables and a portable power bank for travel days. Note that most phone and computer chargers include the 120v-220v converter so you don’t need a separate one.
You do not need to pack a hairdryer. Hotels typically provide hairdryer.