PACKING TIPS YOUR BAGS FOR YOUR TRIP TO ITALY

When visiting Italy most people visit 3 or 4 major cities in the same trip, often using high speed rail to move from city to city, therefore, we recommend making your luggage as light and practical as possible, to facilitate mobility. Remember, there are laundromats in Italy and many hotels offer a cleaning service; aside from underwear and socks you do not need 7 different variations of the same clothing article. 

You may have to make some difficult decisions while packing, but trust that you'll be thanking us when you're running late to catch your train, your wagon is at the very end of the platform, or when you find a place to fit your reasonably sized luggage on the sold out train.

Here are few things to consider before packing:

• What season are you traveling?

• What parts of Italy will you be visiting?

• How long is your stay?

• What kind of activities will you be doing?

First of all

While Italy is not a huge country in terms of its land mass, it is a very long country with a diverse topography, that creates a large variety of climates. There is a massive difference from north to south, and between mountains, valleys, plains and coasts. You will do yourself a massive favor by doing some research on what type of weather you can expect during your trip.  

(This is something we always discuss with our clients) 

The single most important thing

Shoes! You will likely spend a lot of time walking and on your feet, and you don't want to spend any of your precious vacation time treating blisters. Comfortable shoes, preferably ones that you have already broken in and feel comfortable wearing in a variety of situations. Unless you're participating in some kind of special event or activity there is really no reason to bring more than two pairs of shoes (one pair you travel with the other in your luggage), as they consume the most space and are generally heaviest objects in your luggage.

Don't Forget

Electric adapters- Remember that electric outlets in Europe are not the same as they are in the UK or USA! You will likely need your cell phone and other electronics from the moment you land and all throughout your trip, so it is highly recommended that you purchase before your arrival. These adapters are easily found online or at most electronic stores.

The weather in Italy

Keep in mind that this is meant to give you an idea of what to expect, providing a general average of regional temperatures and weather conditions. Remember that, even within the same region temperatures can vary widely between plains, vallies, mountains and coasts.

North

• Summer- Avg Temp. 78-84°F - Temperatures are generally pleasant with your occasional hot and humid day in the northern plains.

• Fall- Avg Temp. 50-64 °F - Generally pleasant temperatures, in late fall snow starts falling in the mountainous parts of Northern Italy, and Venice often experiences flooding from high tides.

• Winter- Avg Temp. 39-50°F - While thick fog is common in the northern plains snow is not, it is however, extremely common in the towns of the Italian Alps.

• Spring- Avg Temp. 57-73 °F - The weather starts to get hotter and more pleasant: many sunny days are expected.

CentraI

• Summer- Avg Temp. 78-86°F - The summer can bring very high temperatures to In central Italy (111°F in Florence, July 2019) mostly dry, with the occasional heavy rain.

• Fall- Avg Temp. 68-53°F - Cool and pleasant temperatures, however expect some rainy days. 

• Winter- Avg Temp. 46-53°F - While snow is rare and temperature may not seem that low the humidity in the valleys of central Italy can make it feel much colder, snow is not uncommon in the mountains.

• Spring- Avg Temp. 55-73 °F - Generally brings pleasant temperatures, and many flowers to our cities. If you are sensitive or allergic to pollen, take the necessary precautions.

South

• Summer- Avg Temp.78-91 °F - The wind from Northern Africa brings very high temperatures, rain is very rare, you'll find that cities are deserted and locals are at the beach.

• Fall- Avg Temp. 75-60°F Generally temperate, with the occasional day that feels like summer, rain is not that common.

• Winter- Avg Temp. 55-62°F It is highly unlikely for you to see snow here, unless you go to the highest mountains, however rain is fairly common. 

• Spring- Avg Temp. 62-75°F While you can get the occasional summer day, temperatures are generally mild and rain is somewhat common.