The Ultimate Packing List for Solo Italy Trips
A warm, stress-free guide for women travelling Italy alone
Packing for Italy should feel exciting, not overwhelming. And yet, if you are anything like me on my early solo trips, you will stand over your suitcase with far too many dresses, not enough practical layers and absolutely no idea whether you need that extra pair of sandals. (Spoiler, you do not…)
Italy is made for slow wandering, scenic train journeys, tiny medieval lanes and last minute adventures. This guide brings together everything I have learned from travelling alone across Tuscany, Umbria, Abruzzo and beyond, so you can feel confident, prepared and ready to enjoy your trip from the moment you land.
*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links where I get a small commission if you make a purchase, so thank you in advance for your support! Please know I would never recommend anything that I don’t personally LOVE myself.
Let us keep it simple, stylish and stress free. The Beara Italia way.
Clothing Essentials
Light layers
Italy’s weather loves to surprise you. Pack breathable pieces you can mix and match such as linen shirts, light knits, a soft cardigan and a couple of simple tees.
A versatile day dress
Floaty, comfortable and perfect for wandering cobbled streets or sitting with a spritz in the sunshine.
One feel amazing outfit
For dinners, wine tastings or that moment when you decide to treat yourself at a rooftop bar.
Comfortable walking shoes
Italy equals hills, cobblestones and endless staircases. Trainers or cushioned sandals will be your best friend.
A light rain jacket
Especially in spring and autumn. Packable options work well.
Seasonal extras
Summer: A hat, sunglasses, breathable fabrics, swimsuit, mosquito repellent.
Winter: Warm coat, cosy layers, scarf and gloves.
Toiletries and Personal Care
Keep it simple. Most essentials are easy to find in Italy, but there are a few things that are worth bringing from home.
Bring:
SPF for all seasons (I use this spf50 from Real Beauty London and it’s amazing!!!)
Basic makeup and skincare minis
Hair products in travel sizes
If you’re travelling for over a fortnight it’s worth just buying what you need when you arrive from the supermarket.
OTC painkillers
Painkillers are very expensive in Italy and can only be bought in a pharmacy, so bring a small supply with you.Mosquito repellent when travelling in warmer months. (A mosquito repellent wristband works well and saves packing space)
An after bite soothing stick. (If you don’t have one, then go to a pharmacy and ask for a ‘Dopo Punctura’)
Beara Tip: Pharmacies in Italy are excellent, but opening hours can be limited in smaller towns. Carry what you need for comfort and simplicity.
Keep your toiletries bag small, and pack mini sizes if only travelling for a short time.
Electronics and Tech
Phone and charger
Plug adapters for Italy (mainly Type C and Type F)
Portable power bank
AirPods or headphones
Kindle or a good book for train days
Optional small camera
Extras to make travel smoother:
Phone holder for the car if you are driving
Personal alarm for solo travel confidence. (I carry this one from Ashley) wherever I go for extra piece of mind.
Beara Tip: Download Google Maps offline before you go. This helps so much in rural areas where signal is patchy.
Noise cancelling headphones are an essential for me.
Great for plane or train journeys or to block out noisy places if you get overwhelmed easily.
Travel Documents and Important Bits
Passport
Driving licence
Travel insurance
Printed and digital copies of bookings for accommodation and car hire
Debit and credit cards plus a little cash
Reusable water bottle
A comfortable day bag or crossbody bag
A small purse for coins
Italy still uses coins frequently for parking meters, small purchases and local transport.
ZTL Reminder: Many Italian towns have restricted access zones. Always check signs and research parking before you arrive.
Useful Extras You Will Be Glad You Packed
I’m a bit old school and always take a guide book with me.
Great for planning when you’re eating alone in a restaurant.
A lightweight scarf for warmth, modesty in Italian churches.
Reusable tote bag for markets and beach days
Notebook or travel journal
Snacks for long travel days
What Not to Pack!!
You truly will not need:
Multiple pairs of heels
More than one pair of jeans
A large handbag
Too many dresses ‘just in case’
Full size toiletries
Pack light and your future self will thank you on every station platform and cobbled lane.
It also leaves room in your luggage for all the things you’ll want to bring home from your travels. Italian delicacies, presents, and treats for yourself to remind you of your trip.
Forever grateful for a comfortable pair of trainers on every trip to Italy.
Final Thoughts
Packing for a solo Italy trip is not about getting everything perfect. It is about feeling comfortable, confident and free to enjoy the moments that make Italy unforgettable. Take what makes you feel like you, leave space for treasures you find along the way and remember that Italy always rewards curiosity and lightness.
Wherever you are heading, a medieval hilltop town, a coastal village or a peaceful countryside stay, I hope this list helps your journey unfold with ease, joy and a little Beara Italia magic.
Buon viaggio
Beara x