What to Pack & Bring: Savona

Spring & Autumn Attire

These shoulder seasons offer pleasant temperatures but may have unpredictable rain. Layers make adjustments to temperature fluctuations throughout the day.

Packing List

Long-sleeved shirts & light sweaters.
Waterproof, breathable jacket (e.g., Columbia Arcadia II).
Lightweight scarf for cooler evenings or church visits.

Summer & Winter Wardrobe

Summers focus on lightweight, breathable fabrics. Winters, though mild, call for warmer layers. A scarf, Gloves, and a hat are for colder days, especially when sea winds pick up.

Items

Summer: Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, Swimwear, Sun hats.
Winter: Sweaters, long pants, medium-weight coat.
Modesty: Shoulders and knees covered for religious sites (Scarf/shawl).

Footwear Essentials

Walking Shoes

Comfortable, supportive walking shoes are a must for city exploration and cobblestone streets.

Consider Merrell Moab 3 Vent for hiking.

Beach Footwear

Sandals or flip-flops are suitable for beaches and warm weather. Remember your Swimsuit and cover-up.

Beach days call for easy-to-wear options.

Evening Shoes

A dressier pair of shoes for evenings if dining at upscale restaurants. Confirm they are comfortable for light walking.

Smart casual is generally appropriate.

Essential Documents

Important Papers

Keeping your documents organized and accessible prevents stress during your trip. Carry both physical and digital copies.

Original passport and visa documentation (if applicable).
Travel insurance policy information (printed and digital).
International driving permit (IDP) if planning to drive.
Vaccination records or health documentation, doctor's notes for prescriptions.

Printed and digital copies of reservations (flights, hotels, tours).
Emergency contact information (family, embassy, bank fraud).
Student/senior/press IDs for discounts (e.g., ISIC).
Digital copies of passport and visa in cloud storage.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Stay connected and powered up with the right electronics and accessories. Italy uses Type F (Schuko) and Type L (Italian) electrical outlets at 230V, 50Hz.

Device Readiness

Power adapter or Universal travel adapter with USB ports.
Unlocked smartphone (Amazon) for local SIM cards (Airalo for eSIMs).
Consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing.

Cameras & Power Banks

Capture your memories and maintain device power during exploration.

Equipment Checklist

Standard Travel camera, extra batteries, memory cards (B&H Photo for gear).
Lightweight tripod for low-light photography.
Portable chargers like Anker 10,000mAh.

Apps & Data Safety

Navigation Apps

Google Maps or Apple Maps for directions. Download offline maps for areas with no internet. Moovit or Trenitalia for public transport schedules.

Translation & Ride-Share

Google Translate (offline Italian pack). Free Now for licensed taxis. Uber availability limited to licensed taxis in larger cities.

Data Backup

Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud) for backing up photos and document copies.

Health & Wellness

Personal Health Kit

A small, personalized health kit makes a big difference for minor ailments.

Basic pain relievers (e.g., Ibuprofen), antiseptic wipes.
Variety of Band-aids, blister treatment (like Compeed).
Anti-diarrhea medication and motion sickness tablets.

Medication & Protection

Ensure you have documentation for any prescription drugs. Insect repellent is needed for warmer months.

Additional Supplies

All prescription medications in original packaging, doctor's note.
Over-the-counter remedies for colds, allergies, indigestion, headaches.
High SPF sunscreen, Sunglasses, and a Wide-brimmed hat for Sun protection.

Special Health Focus

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Savona is at sea level, but nearby mountainous regions may cause altitude changes.
If prone to motion sickness, bring remedies for boat excursions or winding roads.
Consult your doctor for motion sickness medication if needed.

Water & Personal Hygiene

Tap water in Savona is safe; water purification is generally not needed.
Bring preferred personal hygiene essentials, as specific brands may not appear locally.
Consider solid toiletries to save space and avoid liquid restrictions.

Activity Gear

Hiking & Outdoor

Tailor your packing to the adventures you plan in Savona and its surroundings.

Small daypack for water and snacks.
Sturdy Hiking shoes.
Comfortable activewear.
Consider lightweight, quick-dry clothing.

Beach & Water Activities

Enjoy Savona's coastline with these essentials.

Swimwear and a cover-up.
Quick-dry towel.
Dry bag for valuables near water.
Flip-flops or Sandals.

Photography Gear

Capture Savona's charm and landscapes.

Extra lenses for your Camera.
Tripod for night shots.
Plenty of memory cards.
Check local regulations for drone use.

Equipment Choices

Rent Locally

Specialized equipment: scuba gear, advanced cycling bikes.
Avoids hassle of transporting bulky items.
Well-maintained equipment suitable for local conditions.
Basic beach items: umbrellas, chairs at beach clubs.

Bring From Home

Specific workshop materials (if not provided).
Any personal comfort items not easily replaceable.
Specialty items for niche interests.
Personal safety gear you prefer.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Do not forget these smaller items that make for better comfort and security.

Travel Companions

Neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs for travel.
Money belt or Anti-theft bag (e.g., Nordace bags).
Small Padlock for hostel lockers.
Hidden pocket or money belt.

Reusable & Regional

Minimize waste and connect with the local culture.

Sustainable & Local Items

Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.
Foldable shopping bag for markets.
Reusable cutlery set for street food.
Lightweight Italian phrasebook or Berlitz Dictionary.

Conscious Travel

Reduce Waste

Use reusable bottles and bags.

Support Local

Buy from local markets and artisans.

Eco-friendly Products

Pack solid toiletries to reduce plastics.

Mindful Consumption

Be aware of energy and water usage.

Specialized Items

Region-Specific Essentials

An Italian phrasebook for basic communication.
Regional maps for exploration beyond the city center.
Consider items for capturing specific Ligurian scenery (e.g., coastal views, historic architecture).

Hard-to-Find Locally

Specific brands of toiletries you prefer.
Larger sizes of over-the-counter medications.
Specialized dietary snacks.

Packing Wisdom

Roll your clothes to save space in your luggage and minimize wrinkles.

Use Packing cubes for better organization and easy unpacking.

What to Pack & Bring