What to Pack

 

MEDICATION

Make sure you have enough medication for your trip plus some extra days in case you are hit with delays or other unforeseen circumstances.

Replacing medication abroad can be difficult, especially without your prescriptions. So bring copies of the scripts with you.

✔︎ First aid kit: you could try to make one yourself but this one is small, lightweight and has everything you could think of

✔︎ Pain relief: you know what works best for you, bring your favourite products from home for headaches, joint and muscle pain

✔︎ Face masks are your choice.  Still recommending hand sanitizer: face masks are no longer required indoors and in crowded outdoor areas. You will find hand sanitizer at most venues but it doesn’t hurt to be prepared with your own.

TECHNOLOGY ITEMS

✔︎ iPad/laptop: I always travel with my laptop as I am often working but I’d prefer to go just with my iPad.  I load up my iPad with movies, as sometimes delays may make you sit for hours at airports and on runways.

✔︎ Power pack: make sure your phone stays charged while you are out and about with a portable battery. Note – make sure to take this in your carry on as they are often confiscated from checked bags.

✔︎ Power strip: keep all your devices powered up with this compact power strip – it even has USB ports

✔︎ Selfie stick/tripod: I’m a late convert to the selfie stick but I have to admit they are so handy for getting the perfect solo or group shot. Don’t buy a dodgy one from a street corner. You will be disappointed.

TOILETRIES AND MAKE UP

Try your hardest to find travel sized versions of your favorite products. 

One thing you must pack is a decent conditioner. When traveling your hair will need some extra care and attention. As the conditions are humid (especially in summer), I also found I need my straightener to keep my locks under control.

Be realistic about how much make up you need. 

✔︎ Moisturizer

✔︎ Foundation

✔︎ Eye pencil

✔︎ Mascara

✔︎ Eyeshadow

✔︎ Blush/bronzer

✔︎ Makeup brushes

✔︎ Lipstick/gloss

✔︎ Face cleanser

✔︎ Shamp/conditioner

✔︎ Dry shampoo

✔︎ Hair styling products

✔︎ Hair straightener

✔︎ Hair brush / comb

✔︎ Hair bands

✔︎ Laundry detergent

✔︎ Insect repellent

✔︎ Washcloths!!

✔︎ Deodorant

✔︎ Toothbrush

✔︎ Toothpaste / floss

✔︎ Feminine hygiene products

✔︎ Sunscreen

✔︎ Nail file / scissors

✔︎ Razor / tweezers

ITALY DRESS CODE: SIMPLE AND STYLISH LAYERS

Clothes:  

Aim for smart casual and you will be fine. Although it is always nice to look a little glamorous for dinner.. ladies, you will not need to bring a dress. 

Very casual attire such as tiny shorts, yoga pants, flip flops and ripped clothes are NOT recommended.  Keep it simple and stylish – that’s your ‘what to wear in Italy’ mantra.

As well as these rules of 3

✔︎ Choose a 3 hued color scheme and stick to it. Think, black, navy, light grey and white.

✔︎ Only take 3 pairs of shoes. I know this is hard but shoes add weight. I like to take a pair of ankle boots in winter, sandals in summer, and ballet flats in all seasons. Avoid heels if you can, but if you must, wedges are a much better choice for walking on cobblestones.

✔︎ Bring 3 statement accessories you love to brighten up your outfits – a scarf, pair of earrings or a fun hat can make all the difference. For Italy you must also pack sunglasses 

✔︎ Aim to use each item in at least 3 outfits

CAPSULE WARDROBE FOR ITALY

✔︎ Underwear, bras (2), socks

✔︎ Pants/jeans: (2-3 pairs)

✔︎ Dresses/skirts (2-3 pairs)

✔︎ Ankle boots, flats

✔︎ Seasonal items

✔︎ Pajamas

✔︎ Long sleeved shirts (2-3)

✔︎ Short sleeved shirts (2-3)

✔︎ Cardigan

✔︎ Accessories

✔︎ Laundry bag / detergent

✔︎ Toiletries – see above