Italy, a peninsular country in Western Europe, is a popular destination for travelers from around the world. With world-class art, food, wine, culture, and shopping, Italy is an ideal place for travelers of all budgets and ages. When preparing for a week-long trip in Italy, you should consider several factors in order to make the most of your suitcase space.
Consider the time of year. Depending on the season, the items you pack for a trip to Italy will change. The most popular tourist season is during the summer months; if you are traveling during this time of year, be sure to pack cool, lightweight clothing, as the weather can get extremely hot and humid. If you are traveling to Italy in the winter, fall, or spring months, be sure to pack rain gear and warm clothing, as the weather can be quite cold until late April.
Pack for planned activities. If you plan to shop excessively in Italy, be sure to pack comfortable shoes so you won't have to struggle to navigate cobblestone streets in uncomfortable footwear. You should also pack for any sports outings or day trips. If you are traveling to Italy during the summer months, be sure to bring a swimsuit for dips in the Mediterranean.
Dress for comfort and style. Italians are remarkably stylish people, and dress up for every occasion. Pack clothing that will be comfortable for traveling between the major tourist attractions but that you feel good in. Be sure also to pack nice clothing for dinners out and other events you might attend.
Leave space for souvenirs. When in Italy, you will probably want to shop for souvenirs, clothing, art prints, or other items. Leave extra space in your suitcase, or consider bringing an extra bag that folds up; when the time comes to go home, you can take out the extra bag and pack your additional purchases.
Think about transportation options. If you will be traveling extensively by train in Italy, be sure to pack in a suitcase or bag that is narrow enough to fit easily down train aisles. Travelers to Italy have all seen other tourists struggling to pull too-wide suitcases down train aisles. Your trip to Italy will be much more pleasant if you can move freely on trains and buses.
Follow airline regulations. New airline rules restrict the amount of weight you can carry on board a plane, and may charge extra fees for one or more checked bags. Before your flight to Italy, check airline requirements and pack accordingly.
