I’ve never been to Europe before. During past trips, I’ve always ended up taking too many clothes I don’t use, uncomfortable shoes I hate wearing, and way too many toiletries.
Because I’ve never had a clue about how to pack to enjoy my trip, I decided to do some research online. I was able to find and combine a few resources I thought would be helpful. Armed with this packing guide, I learned what worked best for me by wearing what I brought and observing what others were wearing and why they chose certain garments. Here are a few of my suggestions of what to take with you:
Three pairs of jeans: Depending on the weather, jeans can be very versatile. With flats, flip flops and a light camisole, even in hot weather, you’ll be fine. They can also be dressed up or down. A sexy top and a pair of espadrilles, and you are ready to party.
Two pairs of shorts: For those days when you were smart enough to check the weather forecast and it’s going to be very hot. Keep in mind that you can’t go into many churches in Europe with shorts on so plan your activities accordingly.
Two summer dresses: As with jeans, summer dresses can be dressed up or down. During the day, pair them with your favorite sandals, in the evening with a cute sweater and again, espadrilles.
Four comfortable short sleeve tops for the day, two sexy tops for the evening: Buttoned shirts can be paired with summer dresses, gathered and tied at the bottom for a different look. All tops can be paired with shorts and jeans.
Raincoat: Weather is very unpredictable just about anywhere in Italy during spring and summer.
One pair of PJs: Trust me, they come in handy when getting ready or lounging around the hotel during the evening.
One pair of athletic shoes: Athletic shoes have come a long way. Today you find a variety of designs and bright, beautiful colors. Choose a pair that will go with everything you are going to be wearing, including your summer dresses. Yes, summer dresses. Remember, it’s all about comfort and having fun.
Espadrilles: Best, most comfortable shoes for traveling and long wear. Forget the painful, uncomfortable stilettoes. You can wear those again at home. You’re in Europe for fun, not for fashion.
One pair of flat sandals and a pair of flip flops: Comfort is key when you are going to spend all day walking. Again, pick a pair that is going to go with most of the pieces you’ve brought with you.
One sweater or hoodie: I prefer a sweater because it will go best with everything you have. Most of the time, hoodies look best with very casual clothing such as shorts and athletic shoes.
Light dressier coat/jacket: For when you dress up a bit more in the evening.
Underwear: Five pairs are enough, and two bra’s (one for lighter clothing, one black), Two is best, so you always have a fresh one to wear while you wash and dry the other. Most of us tend to sweat in hot weather, and bras tend to get sweaty and uncomfortable to reuse if sticky and damp.
One spacious bag and a small backpack: Chose a bag you can use during the day and at night. A small backpack purse is ideal for storing your sunscreen, raincoat, wallet and cell phone when walking all day. I suggest you wear it in the front as most tourists do to avoid being robbed. Never keep your cellphone and wallet in the front pocket.
One hat: You will need it for hot sunny days when your face needs more protection.
Hair ties and round clips: Don’t bring too many, two of each should be enough.
Things you should not bring:
Sunscreen or bug spray: You can buy that anywhere.
Umbrella: It’s too hard to carry, and you may end up losing it. A raincoat you can throw in your bag or tie around your waist. If the rain is too heavy, you should probably stay inside.
Extra toiletries: Bring enough for about a week and purchase more if needed. I would suggest using the hotel’s shampoo and conditioner. Most have great brands. You don’t need the extra weight, and most bathrooms in Italy don’t have a lot of storage space.
Hair dryer: Pretty much every hotel has one. If your hair is curly like mine, and you need a diffuser, do what I did. I pretty much wore my hair in a ponytail or under a hat. I brought a curling spray for when I wanted to wear my hair down, which wasn’t often. Scrunch your hair with a cupped fist while applying low heat, and it will give you a slight curl you’ll be satisfied with. You can also use your round clip. Set the look with a lot of hairspray.
Too much makeup: Bring the essentials. Don’t forget a moisturizer, cleanser, makeup remover, and lip balm. You will definitely need those.
Having fun and being comfortable are keys when traveling to Italy for two weeks. Looking your best is good; I’m not suggesting you look like a slob. Just don’t lose sight of your real goal, which is to enjoy yourself. No one notices or cares how you look. A beautiful smile and happy face are all you’ll need to be wearing to show your beauty and all the fun you are having.
Lastly, the least you pack, the more room you’ll have to bring new things home.
