Your Ultimate Rome Packing List: Essential Travel Tips for the Eternal City

Are you dreaming of wandering through the ancient streets of Rome, tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, or marveling at the majestic Colosseum? Whether it’s your first time visiting the Eternal City or you’re a seasoned Roman enthusiast yearning to return, careful preparation is key to an unforgettable experience. As a seasoned traveler, I’ve meticulously researched and compiled a comprehensive packing list based on years of travel experience, especially for our upcoming 5-day adventure in this incredible city.

Timing Your Roman Adventure: May Travel & Weather Considerations

One of the great advantages of traveling in early May is that university graduations are often concluded, while many K-12 schools are still in session until Memorial Day or even later due to snow make-up days. This unique window often translates into **fewer crowds** in Rome, offering a more serene and less congested experience at popular historical sites and attractions.

While October is also a favored month for travel due to fewer tourists and generally mild weather, my past experience has shown it can be quite rainy. May, on the other hand, ushers in the beauty of springtime, promising pleasant temperatures. However, as with spring anywhere, the weather in Rome can be quite unpredictable.

Some sources suggest May in Rome can be surprisingly hot, with temperatures often climbing into the 90s Fahrenheit. Yet, as I monitor my weather app for our upcoming trip, it shows a comfortable 72°F in Rome, a stark contrast to the 92°F we’re currently experiencing in South Carolina. This variability means flexibility in your packing is crucial. Initially, I was packing primarily for hot weather, anticipating high temperatures. Now, I’m making adjustments, ensuring I include a light jacket for my husband and a sweater for myself, preparing for potentially chilly evenings as we enjoy the traditional Roman passiagatta – a leisurely evening stroll.

Your Ultimate Rome Packing List: Essential Items and Expert Advice

Here’s a meticulously curated list of must-pack items for your Roman holiday, detailing what to bring and the practical reasons behind each recommendation:

1. Super-Comfortable Walking Shoes (At Least Two Pairs)

Why they are absolutely paramount: Rome is a city made for walking, but its ancient cobblestone streets, while picturesque, are incredibly rough on your feet. It cannot be stressed enough: **do NOT wear new, uncomfortable, or overly fashionable shoes** for your daily excursions. Investing in high-quality, comfortable walking shoes is the single most important decision for your Roman holiday. Your feet will thank you!

Prioritize genuine comfort and robust support. Walking for hours on uneven surfaces demands footwear that can withstand the challenge. I strongly recommend bringing **at least two pairs** of your most comfortable walking shoes. This allows you to alternate pairs each day, giving each shoe time to air out and your feet a different pressure point, significantly reducing the likelihood of blisters and overall foot fatigue.

Opt for shoes with closed toes and heels to keep your feet protected from street dirt and accidental bumps. Rubber soles are also essential for good traction on potentially slippery marble floors found in many Roman museums and historic buildings. Leave all high heels and even most pumps at home; they are simply not practical for extensive walking. This trip is about enjoying the city comfortably, not making a fashion statement with impractical footwear.

My personal favorites are stretchy, airy, and in versatile neutral colors, making them easy to pair with various outfits. They offer breathability, comfort, and crucial foot protection. However, for evening outings, pack one pair of pretty yet comfortable shoes suitable for dining at nicer restaurants or attending an opera.

Essential Foot Care Tip: Always carry **Band-Aid healing blister pads**. Blisters can quickly derail your enjoyment of Rome, so having these immediate relief pads on hand is a true lifesaver. This tip is invaluable!

2. Low Cotton Footy Socks

Why these are indispensable: These versatile socks serve multiple practical purposes during your travels. Firstly, they provide an additional layer of comfort and hygiene inside your walking shoes. More importantly, they are ideal for wearing around your hotel or apartment room, particularly since many international accommodations, unlike those in the U.S., rarely feature thoroughly cleaned carpets, if any. Wearing footy socks ensures your feet stay clean before you get into bed.

Beyond the hotel, they are also incredibly comfortable for long flights, train journeys, or bus rides, keeping your feet cozy without adding bulk or restricting movement.

3. Wide-Brim, Cotton, Packable Sun Hat

Why this hat is a travel essential: Rome can experience strong sunshine, and protecting your head and face from intense UV rays is absolutely vital for comfortable sightseeing. A wide-brimmed cotton hat provides excellent sun protection. Look for one with water-wicking capabilities to help keep your head cooler and drier, and ensure it’s crushable so it can be easily packed into your luggage or day bag without losing its shape. Additional features like a hidden internal pocket for small valuables and a double chin cord (especially useful on windy days or when near water) are highly beneficial. Having lived in a climate further south than Rome, I can personally attest to the sun’s intensity – even for olive-skinned individuals like myself, and especially for my fair-skinned husband.

Don’t forget: Complement your hat with **sunscreen** (SPF 30 or higher) and a small tube of **aloe vera** gel for any unexpected sunburns, ensuring your skin stays protected and soothed.

4. Supportive Cotton Undergarments

Supportive Cotton Razor Back Strap Bra

Why this specific bra is ideal for travel: Comfort is paramount when you’re engaging in extensive walking and sightseeing in potentially warm weather. I consistently advocate for cotton undergarments, particularly in hot climates, due to their superior breathability and comfort. This type of bra offers several distinct advantages:

• Premium Cotton Fabric: Ensures maximum breathability, helping to minimize discomfort and sweating throughout long days. The airy back panel is a key feature that contributes to cooler wear.
• Convenient Front Closure: Makes it incredibly easy to put on and take off, a small but significant convenience that simplifies your daily routine while traveling.
• Wire-free Design: Eliminates the discomfort and potential irritation associated with underwires, which is crucial for maintaining comfort during prolonged periods of activity.
• Racer-back Straps: Designed to prevent straps from slipping down your shoulders, offering consistent and reliable support without constant adjustment.

Skin-Toned, Neutral, Full-Coverage Briefs (One Size Larger)

Why these are highly recommended: Once again, **cotton is the superior choice** for travel underwear due to its exceptional breathability and comfort. Opting for briefs that are one size larger than your usual ensures maximum comfort and helps prevent visible panty lines under your clothing, contributing to a smoother and more polished silhouette. Neutral, skin-toned colors are always the best choice as they remain discreet under a variety of fabrics and colors, offering versatility and practicality for any travel wardrobe.

5. Versatile Layering Clothing

Packing in layers is the golden rule for traveling to Rome, especially during the spring and fall months. The weather can change rapidly from warm, sunny days to cool evenings, or from clear skies to sudden rain showers. Bring a thoughtfully selected assortment of:

• Several comfortable tops: Choose breathable fabrics that are easy to wash and quick to dry.
• Lighter-weight sweaters or cardigans: These are perfect for layering over tops when the temperature drops in the evening or when entering air-conditioned spaces.
• Two pairs of versatile pants: Opt for neutral colors that can be easily mixed and matched with different tops and accessories, maximizing your outfit options.
• A mid-weight jacket or a stylish blazer: Essential for cooler evenings, particularly for both you and your travel companion.

A note on Roman style and cultural awareness: To blend in and avoid looking like a stereotypical tourist, steer clear of flip-flops and bright white walking shoes. Italians, renowned for their impeccable fashion sense, tend to favor skinny, fitted jeans in various colors, stylish sneakers (like Converse or other brightly colored trainers), and, notably, scarves! Aim for comfortable yet chic attire. Remember, Italians generally don’t wear a lot of loud, flashy colors or excessive black unless it’s for a formal occasion like a funeral. Olive green is another popular and sophisticated color choice often seen among locals.

Neutral-Colored, Cotton Crinkle Gauze Pants

Why these pants are an excellent choice for travel:

• Unmatched Comfort and Coolness: The lightweight, airy fabric makes them incredibly comfortable for warm days of extensive sightseeing.
• No Ironing Required: Their naturally crinkled texture means you can pull them straight from your suitcase and wear them without a thought, saving precious time and effort.
• Highly Packable: They take up minimal space in your luggage, making them ideal for light packing.
• Dirt-Resistant: Neutral colors and the textured fabric tend to show less dirt and wear, a highly practical benefit for city exploration.

Similar to the above, these crinkled cotton pants offer exceptional comfort, packability, and a sophisticated neutral color (graphite) that pairs seamlessly with virtually anything in your wardrobe. Remember, Italian style often favors muted, refined palettes, so these colors will help you blend in more effectively with the local fashion. Italians are indeed fashionistas, but their focus is often on quality, timeless style, and elegant understatement rather than flashy trends.

Important Note on Vatican Dress Code: When planning visits to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, or any other sacred sites in Rome, be aware that a strict dress code is enforced. Shoulders must be completely covered, and shorts are not permitted for either men or women. Men are required to wear long pants, and women opting for skirts or dresses must ensure the length extends at least to the knee. Always carry a scarf or a light cardigan to cover your shoulders if needed, especially if your outfit doesn’t fully comply.

6. Several Pretty Scarves

Why scarves are an indispensable accessory: Scarves are the quintessential versatile accessory for Italian travel. They can instantly elevate a casual daytime outfit into something more suitable for an evening meal, adding a touch of Roman sophistication. Italians incorporate scarves into their everyday style with effortless elegance, so wearing one will help you blend in with the locals and avoid looking like a stereotypical tourist. Romans generally appreciate dressing up, even for casual outings. Furthermore, scarves serve a practical purpose: they can double as a modest shoulder covering when entering churches or the Vatican, helping you adhere to strict dress codes. And, of course, Italy is a fantastic place to acquire exquisitely beautiful scarves as unique souvenirs!

7. One Casual-Nice Outfit & Nicer Casual Shoes

Why it’s smart to pack these: For evenings out at finer restaurants, attending an opera, or simply enjoying a more elegant dinner, you’ll want at least one outfit that strikes a balance between stylishness and comfort. Romans are quite fashionable, even in the evenings, so bring items that can be mixed and matched and easily accessorized to create a polished and refined look. Complement this outfit with a pair of comfortable yet elegant shoes that are distinct from your daily walking sneakers, ensuring you’re prepared for any evening occasion.

8. A Secure Backpack (Preferably with a Lock)

Why a backpack offers superior safety: A backpack, especially one featuring a lockable main compartment, is a significantly more secure option for carrying your daily essentials than a traditional handbag. It is considerably more difficult for pickpockets to snatch items from your back, and a simple lock adds an extra layer of deterrence against quick, opportunistic unzipping. Utilize your backpack for items such as cameras, binoculars, maps, guidebooks, and refillable water bottles. For added convenience and refreshment on hot days, you can even carry a damp towel in a sealed Ziploc bag within your backpack.

Travel Day Essentials: What to Pack for the Plane, Train, or Car

Long travel days, whether by air, rail, or road, require a specific set of items to ensure your comfort, safety, and peace of mind:

9. Neck Money/Passport/ID Pouch

Why this item is non-negotiable for security: Pickpockets are an unfortunate reality in popular tourist areas of Rome, especially where visitors are easily distracted by beautiful sights. A neck pouch, worn discreetly under your clothing (ideally tucked under your bra with the strap hidden), is the safest way to carry your most valuable documents and money. As a crucial rule, avoid putting anything valuable in your back pockets. If you must use pockets for small amounts of cash, keep it in your front pockets, divided between them, and perhaps carry a cheap, empty wallet in a back pocket as a decoy. I personally rely on a pouch and often cross my arms when navigating crowded areas – safety takes precedence over appearing overly friendly!

A strong warning about handbags: **Do NOT pack an expensive designer handbag** with the intention of flaunting it or trying to emulate the highly fashionable Italian women. This will almost certainly make you an easy target for thieves. If you absolutely need to carry a purse, opt for an old, inexpensive one that can be worn securely across your body like a messenger bag, always with a zipper closure. Carrying a bag hanging casually from one arm is an open invitation for trouble. For evening dinners, a tiny, zippered clutch containing only your absolute necessities, kept very close to your chest, is acceptable.

10. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Why they are an investment worth every penny: For frequent travelers like my husband and me, high-quality noise-cancelling headphones are an indispensable investment. They effectively buffer out ambient noise on planes, trains, or any bustling environment, allowing for a far more peaceful and enjoyable journey. You can seamlessly plug them into the in-flight entertainment system or your own electronic devices for personal entertainment. The ‘over-the-ear’ models are particularly effective and comfortable for extended wear, making a significant difference in your travel comfort.

11. Ear Plugs

Why double down on noise reduction: Even with excellent noise-cancelling headphones, earplugs offer an extra layer of quiet, especially when trying to sleep on a plane. I often use them in conjunction with my headphones for complete silence. They are also crucial for ensuring a good night’s sleep in potentially noisy hotel rooms (think street noise or thin walls) or when sharing a room with a snorer! They’re inexpensive and an invaluable tool for ensuring you get restful sleep during your vacation, which is essential for enjoying your days fully.

12. Eye Mask

Why an eye mask is beneficial for rest: For light sleepers or those wishing to rest during daytime flights or in brightly lit hotel rooms, an eye mask is incredibly effective at blocking out light – whether it’s from a fellow passenger’s reading light or bright daylight streaming through the window. Look for a mask that offers some space between the fabric and your eyes; this clever design prevents smudged makeup or squashed eyelashes, ensuring both comfort and practicality during your rest.

13. Travel Neck Pillow

Why bring your own for ultimate comfort: Many airlines no longer provide pillows in economy class, and using a communal pillow raises understandable hygiene concerns. A comfortable travel neck pillow is essential for restful sleep and preventing neck strain on planes, trains (which we’ll use extensively in Italy to avoid driving), and even long car journeys if you plan to explore beyond Rome. I highly recommend a micro-bead pillow with a soft, pliable interior, unlike many of the rigid, uncomfortable options available. My FOM micro-bead pillow, in a versatile neutral beige, has been a reliable travel staple for years, though they are increasingly hard to find. A good neck pillow provides crucial support, making travel much more enjoyable and preventing discomfort.

14. Wheeled Luggage (The Lighter, The Better!)

Why wheels are crucial, and packing light is paramount: Given Rome’s charming but challenging cobblestone streets, uneven sidewalks, and numerous stairs (especially in older buildings with often very few or no elevators), luggage with sturdy wheels is an absolute necessity. It will save your back, your arms, and your sanity! More importantly, aim to **pack as light as possible**. Limit yourself to no more than one medium-sized suitcase for two people, plus a carry-on each. Navigating public transport, walking to your accommodation, or simply moving through crowded areas will be infinitely easier and less stressful with minimal baggage. Overpacking is a common travel mistake that can significantly detract from your overall experience.

15. Electricity Converters / Adapter Devices

Why these are absolutely indispensable: You simply cannot travel internationally without the correct electricity converter and adapter. Italy operates on 220 volts, while American outlets use 110 volts. Without these essential devices, you won’t be able to charge your smartphone, tablet, camera batteries, or use any personal electronics like hair dryers or electric shavers. Invest in a universal kit that includes various conversion models suitable for Europe and other global regions. This is one item you absolutely cannot leave home without; it’s fundamental for keeping all your devices powered throughout your trip.

16. Small, Compact Binoculars

Why they enhance your sightseeing experience: Compact binoculars are surprisingly useful for enriching your exploration of Rome’s vast historical sites. From admiring intricate details on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel (where photos are strictly forbidden) to getting a closer look at distant architectural features atop the Colosseum or other grand monuments, they allow you to appreciate sights that are otherwise out of clear view. They are lightweight, portable, and won’t add significant bulk to your day bag.

17. Extra Camera Batteries, Memory Cards, and Chargers

Why backup is crucial for every photographer: Rome is an incredibly photogenic city, filled with countless opportunities for stunning pictures. You will undoubtedly take hundreds, if not thousands, of photos, and it’s common for camera batteries to die quickly and memory cards to fill up unexpectedly. Always pack multiple spare batteries and several high-capacity memory cards. Crucially, do not forget all your camera and cell phone battery chargers, along with their respective cords. Consider carrying a portable power bank (like a Mophie for iPhones) to recharge your smartphone on the go, ensuring you never miss a photo opportunity because of a dead battery. Remember that memory cards can be significantly more expensive in Rome, so purchase them at home before your trip.

18. High-Quality Polarized Sunglasses

Why protecting your eyes is paramount: The bright Mediterranean sun can cause significant glare, making sightseeing uncomfortable and straining your eyes. High-quality polarized sunglasses are invaluable for reducing glare from reflective surfaces like water or ancient marble, providing superior visual clarity and essential UV protection for your eyes. While fashionable brands like Prada offer stylish options, we prioritize function and superior eye protection with brands like Maui Jim for their exceptional performance.

19. A Foldable Umbrella

Why prepare for unpredictable weather: Rome experiences sporadic rain and sprinkles throughout the year, even during what are generally considered dry seasons. A compact, foldable umbrella is a small item that can save you from getting completely drenched and, more importantly, from having to purchase an overpriced, flimsy umbrella from opportunistic street vendors who capitalize on sudden downpours. It’s always better to be prepared for any weather contingency.

20. Plastic Bags (Various Sizes)

Why they are incredibly useful for every trip: Never underestimate the sheer utility of plastic bags (whether Ziploc or reusable grocery bags) when traveling. Pack about five of each size, as they are truly multi-purpose. They are perfect for:

• Separating dirty clothing from clean items in your luggage, keeping everything organized.
• Containing anything that might leak or spill, such as toiletries or wet swimwear, preventing damage to other items.
• Protecting fragile souvenirs or delicate purchases during transit.
• Carrying snacks, organizing small items, or holding trash until you find a bin.

You’ll be surprised at how useful they are and will likely use every single one you bring!

21. Wet Wipes

Why hand hygiene on the go is important: In a bustling city like Rome, where you’ll be touching many public surfaces, a travel-size pack of wet wipes is an indispensable item. They are perfect for quickly cleaning your hands, refreshing your face, or wiping down surfaces before eating a snack. They are a simple yet highly effective tool for maintaining personal hygiene and feeling fresh throughout your day of exploration.

22. Small Hand Towels & Washcloths

Why bring your own for comfort and hygiene: Hand towels and washcloths serve a dual purpose in Rome. Firstly, it’s important to note that Italian hotels typically do not provide washcloths, as they are not commonly used in Italy as they are in the U.S. Bringing your own ensures your personal hygiene routine remains consistent and comfortable. Secondly, on hot days, you can easily dampen a hand towel with cold water from one of Rome’s numerous free-flowing public fountains (known as “nasoni”). Wring out the excess water, place it in a Ziploc bag, and carry it in your backpack. When you feel overheated, you’ll have a clean, cool compress to refresh your face or neck. This is particularly beneficial for those sensitive to heat or experiencing hot flashes. Remember, it’s best to bring your own from home rather than relying on hotel towels.

23. Re-Fillable, Durable Water Bottles

Why stay hydrated the smart and economical way: Rome is renowned for its “nasoni” – public drinking fountains providing free, clean, and refreshing water throughout the city. Carrying a durable, refillable water bottle allows you to stay hydrated effortlessly without constantly buying expensive bottled water from street vendors. For an extra treat on particularly hot days, you can even freeze your water bottle overnight in your hotel or apartment freezer, ensuring you have ice-cold water for hours of sightseeing.

24. Pain Relievers and Over-The-Counter Pharmacy Items

Why self-medication is easier and essential: In Italy, pharmacies operate quite differently than in many other countries. You won’t find convenience stores, and accessing common over-the-counter medications like Advil, Tylenol, Aleve, or even Pepto-Bismol, laxatives, and antacids (essential if you have a sensitive stomach like mine!) can be surprisingly difficult. Often, these require a physician’s prescription or involve a complicated process to purchase. Pack a sufficient supply of any pain relievers, cold remedies, or digestive aids you might foresee needing. The last thing you want on your Roman holiday is a headache from trying to navigate a foreign pharmacy system for a simple pill!

25. Prescription Medications

Why this is an absolute no-brainer for your health: This cannot be stressed enough: **always bring all your prescription medications in their original packaging, along with copies of your prescriptions from your doctor.** Italian pharmacies will not fill foreign prescriptions. Ensure you have enough medication to last your entire trip, plus a few extra days’ buffer in case of unforeseen travel delays. It is crucial to keep all prescription medications in your carry-on bag, never in checked luggage, to ensure immediate access.

26. High-Quality, Niche Guidebooks

Why specific guidebooks make a profound difference: While general travel guides provide a good overview, “hard-to-find” gems written by specialists offer unparalleled insights into Rome’s architecture, art, history, music, religion, and culture. These expert contributors often share “inside secrets” and detailed information not found in mainstream guides, significantly enriching your understanding and appreciation of the city’s complex layers of history and beauty.

My top recommendations:

• “The Little Black Book of Rome: The Timeless Guide to the Eternal City” by Vena Neskow (2010). This tiny, spiral-bound leather book features convenient pull-out maps for each section of Rome, highlighting main attractions, dining, and lodging tips. Its compact size (no bigger than a large man’s hand) makes it incredibly convenient to carry everywhere without the bulk of an encyclopedia. It’s truly a practical companion for on-the-go exploration.
• “City Secrets: ROME The Essential Insiders’ Guide” by Robert Kahn (2014). Beautifully bound in fabric, this small book is packed with excellent, unique tips and perspectives not found in common tour guides. Like the previous recommendation, its portable size is a huge advantage for carrying it discreetly throughout your daily adventures.

If you prefer a more comprehensive, larger-format guide for broader coverage of the country, I recommend Lonely Planet’s “Discover Italy and Experience the Best.”

27. A Small, Essential Survival Italian Phrase Book

Why learning a few phrases truly matters: Italians deeply appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak their beautiful language. Knowing a few basic phrases not only aids communication but also shows respect for their culture and often opens doors to more genuine and friendly interactions with locals. Remember to use formal terms (like “Salve” for hello instead of the informal “Ciao”) with strangers, as it’s a sign of good manners and politeness in Italy.

Essential phrases to know:

• “Hello” — “Salve” (formal and respectful)
• “Thank you” — “Grazie”
• “How are you?” — “Come stai?” (informal) or “Come sta?” (formal)
• “Good morning/evening/night” — “Buon Giorno/Sera/Notte”
• “I’m sorry, but I don’t speak Italian very well.” — “Mi dispiace, ma parlo l’italiano non molto bene.”
• “Excuse me” — “Mi scusi” (formal)
• “Please” — “Per favore”

Other handy phrases that will come in handy when spoken in Italian:

• “Where is the bathroom?” — “Dov’è il bagno?”
• “How much does this cost?” — “Quanto costa?”
• “What is the specialty of the house (food and wine)?” — “Qual è la specialità della casa (cibo e vino)?”
• “Where is a good restaurant?” — “Dov’è un buon ristorante?”
• “Where is the train station?” — “Dov’è la stazione ferroviaria?”
• “I’d like to buy tickets to…” — “Vorrei comprare i biglietti per…”
• “Can you give me directions to… please?” — “Può darmi indicazioni per… per favore?”

28. A Beautiful Journal

Why record your cherished memories: While digital photos capture moments visually, a physical journal offers a unique and intimate way to record your thoughts, observations, feelings, and vivid sensory details experienced during your journey. It becomes a deeply personal keepsake of a remarkable life experience. Barnes & Noble often carries a beautiful selection, or consider indulging in an exquisite, handmade Italian paper journal from a local gift shop – Italian artisan paper is truly magnificent and makes for a wonderful, tactile souvenir.

Miscellaneous Important Items to Consider:

• Ample Cash: Always carry plenty of euros in various denominations, as many smaller establishments in Italy, especially cafes, gelato shops, and independent stores outside major tourist hubs, may not accept credit cards or prefer cash for smaller transactions.
• Small Container of Liquid Laundry Detergent: For washing lighter clothing items in your hotel sink. This simple trick allows you to pack less and refresh your outfits during your trip.
• Essential Smartphone Apps: Ensure you have a reliable flashlight app installed, Italian language translation apps (like Google Translate), and trusted navigation, restaurant, and attraction-finding apps.
• Magnifying Glass & Small Compass: A cheap magnifying glass is surprisingly helpful for reading the often tiny print on traditional maps. A small, physical compass (or a compass app on your smartphone) can be invaluable when you’re intentionally getting delightfully “lost” wandering Rome’s intricate streets.
• Mini Tripod for Camera: Useful for steadying your camera for clear photos, especially in low-light conditions. **However, be strongly warned: tripods are strictly forbidden inside the Vatican, and you will be immediately escorted out by police if you attempt to use one.**
• An Extra Roll of Toilet Tissue: While Italy does have toilet paper, public restrooms (which often require a small fee) can sometimes be unexpectedly lacking or unstocked. Having your own small roll can be a genuine lifesaver in an unexpected emergency. Trust me, it happens!
• Anti-Bacterial Hand Gel: For quick hand sanitization, especially after navigating crowded areas, touching public surfaces, or using public transport. Despite what some may say, I simply prefer to minimize germ exposure, regardless of nationality!
• Travel-Size Toiletry Items: While Italy is a developed country and you can certainly buy full-size shampoos, soaps, etc., there, bringing travel-size versions of your favorite essentials saves significant space and weight in your luggage, making packing much easier.
• Secure Camera Bag: If you’re bringing a DSLR camera, invest in a high-quality camera bag with a wide, cross-body strap for enhanced security and comfort, rather than relying solely on a shoulder strap.
• Travel Packs of Kleenex/Tissue: Public restrooms in Italy can sometimes be less than ideal. Having your own tissues is always a good idea for personal comfort and hygiene. As my father used to say, “They aren’t asking us to come here!” Rome is an ancient city, unlike the young USA, so be prepared for a little dirt and don’t complain – while it may be cleaner in some ways in the USA, we don’t hold a candle to Rome’s antiquities.
• Emergency Luggage Information: In each piece of checked luggage, place a card with your name, phone number, and the name and phone number of the lodging where you are staying. This is crucial in case your luggage is lost.
• Carry-On Essentials: In your carry-on, keep vital items such as: two tiny guidebooks, your iPhone/iPad, headphones, essential makeup, toothbrush and paste, hairbrush, a change of underwear, and footy socks to wear on the plane.
• Spare Contact Lenses & Extra Reading Glasses: Absolutely essential for those who rely on them for vision correction.
• Nice but Not Overly Expensive Accessories: Italians tend to dress up a bit more for dinner, and for well-dressed Italians, it’s all about the details. Pack some pretty but not overly flashy bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and several elegant silk scarves to elevate your evening looks.

Forget Packing an Empty Suitcase for Souvenirs

Why rethink your souvenir strategy: Airlines now typically charge for more than one checked bag, and strict weight limits mean that bringing an empty suitcase just for souvenirs can quickly become very expensive. Moreover, items packed in traditional suitcases are more prone to damage and breakage during transit.

Instead, consider doing what we do: **ship everything home** from a local MailBoxes, Etc., UPS, or FedEx store. This option usually includes insurance for breakage, ensures that your cherished items are properly bubble-wrapped, and frees you from the hassle and worry of carrying extra, heavy luggage through airports and city streets. It’s a convenient, secure, and often more cost-effective way to transport your treasures home.

We hope this comprehensive Rome packing list helps you prepare for a comfortable, stylish, and truly unforgettable journey through Italy’s timeless capital. Safe travels and enjoy every moment!

If you have any other brilliant recommendations or invaluable tips to share from your own travel experiences, please let me know in the comments below! We can all learn from each other to make our next adventures even better.

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