Choosing Luggage
Packing light is the key to successful travel in Italy. Unlike in the United States, Italian rental cars are small and offer a limited amount of luggage space. Most travelers rely on public transport at least once during their trip. This often involves climbing staircases and walking from point A to point B. So a good rule of thumb is to travel only with what you can carry. Comfortable backpacks or luggage with wheels are highly recommended.
Clothing and Shoes
Exploring Italy typically involves a lot of walking. Many villages are located on hills and a lot of time is spent walking around museums. For this reason comfortable, lightweight walking shoes are recommended for all travelers. For anyone traveling to the Dolomites or the Italian Alps, pack heavyweight hiking boots with ankle support. Rain gear, gloves and a hat are also recommended, even in the summer.
Italians are known for their sense of style and fashion. In general, they tend to dress more smartly than Americans. This is especially true when it comes to dining out. If you want to blend in with the locals, pack a couple of "dressy" outfits for the evening. Dining in outdoor clothes will be frowned upon. If you plan on visiting religious buildings, be sure to bring clothes that cover your shoulders and legs otherwise you will be denied entry.
Additional Items
An Italian phrase book and dictionary will go a long way. Italians love it when you try and speak their language and within seconds you will have made friends with the locals. Keep in mind that most Italians speak a little English, but there are pockets of Italy where is English is not spoken.
The power supply is 240 volts. Be sure to check the voltage of your electrical appliances before you leave. Plugs have two round pins, so electrical equipment with U.S. plugs will need an adapter. It is best to bring one with you.
Hiking Equipment
If traveling with outdoor equipment, check with the airline regarding restrictions and excess baggage charges. According to the Transportation Security Administration, camping stoves can be carried in checked or carry on bags if they are clean, fuel-free and don't smell of fuel vapors. However, it is virtually impossible for fuel canisters to be "vapor free," so the TSA recommends shipping or buying these upon arrival. Compressed gas, such as butane, can never be taken on board a plane. It is also worth noting that camping is not as popular in Italy as in the United States. Hikers tend to stay in huts when hiking in the mountains, and wild camping is often not permitted.
Trekking poles, knives and leatherman tools should be packed in your checked luggage. All of these items are considered as potentially dangerous and cannot be in your carry-on bags.
Bikes
If traveling with a bike, check airline rules and regulations prior to booking your ticket. Most, but not all, airlines charge passengers to travel with a bike. It is also possible to ship your bike using UPS or FedEx. This reduces the stress and hassle of carrying it, but the cost is typically higher than bringing it with you on the plane. Good quality rental bikes are available in Tuscany through companies such as www.bikerentalsplus.com.
