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What to Pack

What to Pack

Basilicata, Italy

Spring & Autumn Attire

These shoulder seasons have mild to warm days but can have cooler evenings. Layering works best.

Recommended Items

Summer & Winter Attire

Summer months are hot and dry. Winter months are cold with potential for rain or snow.

Recommended Items

  • Summer: Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton/linen), shorts, skirts, t-shirts, dresses. Sun protection, Sunglasses.
  • Winter: Thermal underwear, thick sweaters, warm long-sleeved tops. A heavy Winter coat (waterproof).
  • Accessories: Warm scarf, Gloves, and a hat for winter.

Footwear for Matera's Terrain

Sassi Exploration

The Sassi involves extensive walking on uneven, cobbled, and often slippery surfaces, including numerous steps and inclines. The terrain is demanding.

Main: Sturdy, comfortable Walking shoes, Athletic sneakers, or low-heeled boots with good grip.

Hiking in Murgia Materana

If you plan to hike across the Gravina ravine, specific footwear is useful.

Recommended: Appropriate Hiking shoes with good ankle support and grip.

What to Avoid

Certain footwear types increase risk on Matera's terrain.

Avoid: Sandals, flip-flops, high heels, or fashion sneakers with poor support for extensive Sassi exploration.

Essential Documents

Documents for Your Trip

Keeping your documents organized and accessible prevents unnecessary stress. Prepare both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport & Visa: Original passport. If a visa is needed, all relevant documents.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If driving and not an EU citizen, bring your IDP alongside your national driver's license.
  • Health Docs: Record of vaccinations and doctor's note for prescription medications.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of flights, hotels, tours, and car rentals.
  • Travel Insurance: Physical and digital copies of your policy, with emergency contact numbers.
  • Emergency Contacts: List of family/friends, embassy/consulate, and Italian emergency numbers (112, 118).
  • Discount IDs: Student/Senior/Press IDs for potential discounts.
  • Cultural Note: Carry a Light shawl or scarf for visiting religious sites to cover shoulders and knees.

Tech & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Ensure your devices are powered and connected throughout your trip.

Essentials

Camera & Apps

Capture Matera's beauty and navigate with ease.

Tools for Travel

  • Camera Gear: A good camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or quality smartphone) for stunning views. A Wide-angle lens is useful. A Portable tripod helps with low-light shots.
  • Navigation Apps: Google Maps (download offline maps for Matera), Citymapper.
  • Translation Apps: Google Translate (offline Italian pack), DeepL. Consider Airalo for eSIMs.

Data Backup & Security

Backup Photos

Regularly back up your photos. Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or carry a Small external hard drive or USB flash drive.

Secure Valuables

A Money belt or RFID-blocking wallet provides security for passport, cash, and cards. Small Luggage locks add security to your bags. Consider Pacsafe products for anti-theft bags.

VPN Services

For secure browsing on public Wi-Fi, consider a VPN service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Health & Wellness

Personal First Aid

A small Personal first aid kit and necessary health items contribute to your comfort.

Kit Contents

Sun & Insect Protection

Protect yourself from the elements.

Climate-Appropriate Protection

  • High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30+), After-sun lotion, and a wide-brimmed hat are recommended, especially from spring through autumn.
  • While Matera's dry climate means fewer mosquitoes than coastal areas, Insect repellent can be useful for evenings outdoors, especially near the Gravina.
  • Tap water in Matera is safe to drink. A Reusable water bottle is always a good idea for hydration and waste reduction.

Personal Comfort & Hygiene

Over-the-Counter Medications

  • Include remedies for colds/flu, allergies, antacids.
  • Any personal specific needs you rely on.
  • Difficult or expensive to purchase locally for specific brands or dietary needs.

Hygiene Essentials

  • Most common toiletries are readily available.
  • If you use specific brands, eco-friendly products, or have sensitive skin, bring your preferred items.
  • Travel-sized versions save space and weight.

Activity Gear

Sassi Exploration

Matera's main activities center around walking and cultural exploration.

  • Gear: Comfortable, durable Walking shoes.
  • Daypack: A Lightweight daypack for water, snacks, camera.
  • Rent vs. Bring: Daypack is better to bring.
  • Specialty: Nothing highly specialized needed.

Photography Gear

Capture Matera's unique beauty.

  • DSLR, mirrorless, or quality smartphone.
  • Wide-angle lens for expansive views.
  • Portable tripod for low-light or night shots.
  • Extra batteries or power bank.

Murgia Materana Hiking

If you plan significant hiking across the Gravina ravine.

  • Appropriate Hiking boots with ankle support.
  • Water and snacks for the trail.
  • Sun protection.
  • Map or navigation app.

Packing Efficiency

Space-Saving Strategies

  • Roll your clothes instead of folding to save space and reduce wrinkles.
  • Use Packing cubes to organize luggage efficiently.
  • Pack light. Consider laundry services for longer trips.
  • A Modern travel bag from Nordace can help organize.

General Recommendations

  • Pack comfortable walking shoes as the top priority.
  • Bring layers of clothing for varying temperatures.
  • Include a small umbrella or light rain jacket.
  • A reusable water bottle is useful for hydration.

Miscellaneous Items

Travel Comfort & Security

Small items enhance your comfort, security, and overall experience.

Smart Additions

Shopping & Accessibility

Making your shopping and dining experiences smooth.

Local Purchase Considerations

  • Most common toiletries are readily available at local stores.
  • If you have specific dietary needs (e.g., gluten-free items not widely available), bring a small supply.
  • Any specific over-the-counter medications you rely on are easier to bring from home.
  • Amazon is always an option for last-minute needs, but shipping times vary.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For markets and groceries.

Reusable Utensils

For street food and picnics.

Portable Solar Charger

For eco-friendly charging.

Destination-Specific Considerations

Navigating the Sassi

  • A Matera guidebook with detailed maps for self-guided tours.
  • A small flashlight for exploring dimly lit cave churches or walking at night.
  • A small notebook and pen for jotting notes or sketching.

Cultural & Experiential

  • Basic Italian phrasebook or app for common greetings and phrases.
  • Small denominations of Euros for local markets or small purchases.
  • A hat and comfortable, breathable clothing for exploring in warmer months.

Pro Tip: Dress in Layers

Matera's weather can change throughout the day. Layering your clothing lets you adapt to temperature fluctuations, ensuring comfort whether you are exploring sunny Sassi streets or cooler cave interiors.

Always prioritize comfortable, sturdy shoes for navigating the city's unique terrain.