March in Italy can include everything from hot sunny days to returns to winter cold, with a few rain showers in between. Even a single day can include extremes, so layered dressing is a good strategy. Bring several comfortable T-shirts or blouses to wear underneath, along with light sweaters and a light winter jacket. Bring long pants or jeans and skirts or dresses to stay warm and on the right side of dress codes for entering certain churches and religious buildings. If you're heading to hotter southern destinations like Sicily, focus on lighter clothing, while trips to the north may require heavier winter gear. Over a three-week trip, you should have several opportunities to do laundry, but make sure you have at least enough clothes for your longest stretch in the countryside. Lastly, if you are hoping to blend in with the locals, keep your clothes simple but elegant, avoiding athletic gear or overly branded items.
In March in Italy, you're likely to need both sunglasses and an umbrella. Bring sunscreen and beach gear if you're heading to the coast and be prepared for some spring showers wherever you go. The best way to see most Italian cities and towns is by walking, so make sure your footwear is comfortable. Close-toed shoes are your best bet for dealing with occasional rain; think about grip if you plan on trekking through the Tuscan foothills or visiting ancient ruins. For that fancy goodbye dinner in Rome, bring one pair of more elegant shoes, along with matching dress clothes.
Every trip requires some paperwork, but incorporating certain practicalities into your packing plan can avoid hassles at the airport later. While you'll need your passport to travel, you may not want to have it with you on the street in Italy. Make several photocopies of the document -- along with any health insurance information -- and keep the copies on your person and in your luggage while you travel. Write down your hotel or accommodation address in Italy in case you have to declare it at the airport and -- if you've planned ahead -- you may want to keep a full copy of your itinerary or leave a copy with friends at home for safety reasons. Major credit cards are accepted throughout Italy, but having some cash on hand is always a good idea.
If you have to be in touch with folks back home during your trip, you should talk to your cell phone carrier about international calling packages that include Italy and bring your phone with you. Smartphones can also provide you with maps and travel tips at Wi-Fi spots in towns and cities. Alternatively, consider buying a basic phone in Italy with pre-paid calling cards. All U.S. electronics require a universal outlet adapter to function in Italy. Electronics like additional memory cards and adapters are usually cheaper in the U.S. than in Italian souvenir shops. The remaining odds and ends that you should pack depend on your itinerary and can include everything from binoculars to get a good look at ceiling frescoes to a flashlight for tours of ruins or a bit of costume flair if you're heading to Venice for carnival. Whatever you do, just leave some room in your luggage for a few bottles of wine and souvenirs to bring home.
