Last spring, I headed to Italy with an amazing group of women. You can read all about our adventures and itinerary for Milan, Lake Como, and Venice right here.

I promised I would write a post detailing what to pack for Italy in April. For me, packing can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming and I was really unsure about what to bring for this trip. Our itinerary included lots of walking and adventures, but the temps would be a lot cooler than my September trip to Italy (where we visited central and southern Italy).

In the end, I think I did a pretty good job packing for my Italy trip. I even polled the rest of our group to ask about their must-have items for the trip. It was fun learning about all of the goodies that they were so happy they brought along.

Italy’s Forecast in Late Spring

First up, let’s chat about the weather forecast. When we went to Rome, Florence, and Sorrento back in 2017 we had ideal weather in the upper 70s. It wasn’t too hot and I mostly wore shorts and dresses during our stay. The summer months can be super hot, so we lucked out.

This time of the year, it was definitely cooler and rainier for our late April trip to Milan, Lake Como, and Venice. Average temperatures were in the 60s and low 70s and most of the Venice portion of the trip was rainy and even cooler. My Patagonia rain jacket is something I often travel with because it’s lightweight and easy to pack. And don’t forget a travel umbrella for rainy days.

Other than that, I think layering is key.

I brought my favorite scarf that can be used as a wrap or even as a blanket on a long bus or plane ride. This is nice to have if you’re visiting any religious sites too, so you can make sure your shoulders are covered.

I also brought my jean jacket and a suede jacket that I could throw over outfits if things were a little chilly in the morning or at night. A light jacket is a good idea if you’re visiting northern Italy and for any unexpected cold days. I packed some sleeveless tops that layer well under light jackets. On sunny days, I was able to ditch the jacket and feel comfortable.

Ultimate Italy Packing List

Here’s a list of everything I brought with me for our trip. I always use packing cubes to organize everything in my suitcase. Plus, they keep things organized throughout my trip.

• Suitcase (My Away luggage in the size medium truly is the best luggage for a long trip!)
• Sneakers (Gotta have a good pair of walking shoes.)
• Comfy sandals (These were my lifesavers.)
• High heels (Not a necessity, but good if you want a few dressed-up dinners. Just make sure they have block heels because of the cobblestone streets.)
• Jeans & White jeans
• Leggings
• 4 tops
• Jean jacket
• Suede jacket
• Nice dress (We didn’t go anywhere with a formal dress code, but it was good to have one nicer dress with me.)
• Pajamas (My go-to pair.)
• Athletic dress (Great for our biking day.)
• Crossbody fanny pack
• Hat  (Sun protection and you can hide unwashed hair.)
• Socks, underwear (These are my fave), and bras
• Scarf (It’s nice to always have an extra layer.)
• Patagonia rain jacket & travel umbrella
• Sunglasses
• Travel adapters (Don’t forget to buy a few travel adapters. You will need Type L for Italy.)

Packing Must-Haves From Our Group

Flats // Sandals // Packing Cubes // Jean Jacket // Crossbod Bag // Portable Charger // Blazer // Sneakers // Belt Bag // Loafers // Scarf // Sunscreen Powder // Mini Hair Straightener

After our trip, I reached out to our fantastic group of women and asked them to send me a must-have item that they brought along. Below are their answers and some quotes as to why they love each item!

Best Shoes

Rothy’s – Ballet Slipper Flats // Slip On: A few of the ladies wore shoes from Rothy’s on our trip and raved about them. Stylish, cute, and you can even throw them in the washing machine! I want to get a pair for the fall. They have lots of neutral colors to choose from and I’m always down for another pair of comfortable shoes.

Sorel Sandal: As mentioned above, these are my go-to sandal for vacation. Easy to walk in and comfortable. A great option for any vacation with a lot of walking.

Allbirds: “These are very comfy and supportive for walking all day. Plus, no break-in time.”

Sneakers: “These kept my feet dry on wet days and were always comfortable.”

Clothing & Beauty

Dual Voltage Mini Hair Straightener: “This eliminates the need to carry a separate voltage converter.”

Face Sunscreen: “This sunscreen powder is great on the go. Touch-up your makeup and sunscreen at the same time.”

Hoodie: “Such a cozy hoodie that was great for overnight flights and chilly hotel rooms.”

Belt Bag: “This belt bag has three separate pockets. Plenty of room for a phone, credit cards, sunglasses, and with room to spare.”

Scarf: “This scarf worked great as a scarf, wrap, or blanket.”

Cashmere Scarf: “This was light enough to fold up very small, but was still able to keep me warm whether I wore it as a scarf or blanket on the plane.”

Blazer: A cotton blazer that is comfortable, yet polished.

Jean Jacket: A travel essential for just about any trip during any time of year.

Crossbody Bag: “This was small enough to carry comfortably but large enough to hold a reusable water bottle.”

Travel Essentials

Packing Cubes: “I was able to fit all of my outfits in two of these packing cubes.”

Portable Charger: “This was a must-pack for me. A lightweight, portable charger that doesn’t require a cord.”

Travel Pillow & Neck Pillow: “My sleeping pillows were essential. I was surprised by how much I liked the travel pillow and used the larger one sleeping in the hotel.”

I hope this spring Italy packing list is helpful as you plan your next adventure. It’s always fun to see what people bring on vacation!

Heading On An Italian Vacation? Read These Posts!

• Recap of our 12-day trip to Italy visiting Rome, Florence, and Sorrento
• Travel Tips for Italy
• International Travel Favorites
• Packing Guide for September in Italy
• Milan, Lake Como, and Venice Travel Guide
• What to Pack for Italy In April