MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Polignano a Mare

What to Pack for Polignano a Mare

Polignano A Mare Puglia, Italy Travel Guide

Clothing for Every Season

Summer (June-August): Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, rayon. These materials keep you cool in the heat. Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, skirts. Swimwear needed for beach time. Light scarf or long-sleeved shirt for evenings or air-conditioned interiors. Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for Sun protection.

Seasonal Attire Notes

  • Spring/Autumn (April-May, Sep-Oct): Layering needed. Long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters, jeans/trousers. Medium-weight jacket, trench coat, or light waterproof shell for cool evenings or rain. Lightweight Travel umbrella or compact Rain jacket useful. Swimwear for warmer days.
  • Winter (Nov-Mar): Warmer layers. Wool sweaters, long-sleeved thermal tops, warm trousers. Waterproof and windproof jacket against coastal winds. Scarf, Gloves, and Warm hat for colder days.
  • Always apply sunscreen liberally, even on cloudy days.

Dress Code & Activity Attire

Polignano a Mare generally relaxed. When visiting churches or religious sites, shoulders and knees must be covered.

Specific Attire Guidelines

  • Cultural Dress: Carry a Light scarf or shawl; it covers shoulders quickly for church entry. Men: long shorts or trousers.
  • Swimming/Beach: Swimsuits, cover-ups, beach sandals/flip-flops.
  • Hiking/Walking: Comfortable, Supportive walking shoes or sturdy sandals for cobblestones and hills. Light, breathable athletic wear for countryside walks.

Footwear Recommendations

Walking Shoes

Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sandals paramount. The historic center's uneven cobblestones and steps challenge high heels or flimsy footwear.

For exploring historic streets

Beach Footwear

Flip-flops or Water shoes recommended for pebble beaches like Lama Monachile; walking on smooth stones uncomfortable.

For pebble beaches

Evening Shoes

Dressier sandals, loafers, or casual shoes complement smart casual attire. Formal wear rarely needed.

For evening dining

Documents Checklist

Your Travel Kit

Document organization and security for travel preparation. These items enable smooth entry, identification, and service access.

  • Passport & Visa: Original passport, all related visa documents. Photocopies/digital scans separate from originals.
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Policy number, emergency contacts, coverage summary. Both digital and printed.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): For non-EU citizens renting a car. Present with valid national driver's license.
  • Vaccination Records & Health Docs: Any vaccination records. Doctor's letter for medical conditions/medications.
  • Reservation Copies: Flight, hotel, car rental, tour confirmations (printed & digital).
  • Emergency Contacts: Family, embassy/consulate in Italy, local emergency services (112). Share with someone at home.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs: For potential discounts on attractions.
  • Documentation avoids customs issues. Obtain IDP before travel from national motoring association.

Tech & Connectivity

Power & Connectivity

Modern travel often relies on electronics. Italy uses 230V at 50Hz. Verify dual voltage (100-240V) for devices before plugging.

Adapter & SIM Essentials

  • Plug Type: Italy uses Type F (Schuko) and Type L (Italian) outlets. A Universal travel adapter with these types recommended.
  • Mobile Phone: Most modern smartphones compatible with European networks. Local SIM cards from TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, Iliad available in larger cities like Bari (passport for registration).
  • ESIMs: Download a data plan to your phone without a physical SIM, often active before arrival. Immediate connectivity upon landing.

Gadgets & Apps

For high-quality photos of Polignano’s dramatic scenery, a mirrorless or DSLR camera. A Wide-angle lens captures expansive coastal views.

Digital Travel Aids

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize cloud services (Google Drive, Dropbox) for backing up photos and important documents.

External Drive

An External hard drive good for large volumes of photos.

Privacy & VPN

Consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure internet connection, especially on public Wi-Fi.

Health & Well-being Essentials

First Aid & Medications

A well-stocked personal health and wellness kit handles minor ailments, prevents common issues, and ensures care for specific needs.

Essential Kit Contents

Prevention & Hygiene

Sun exposure intense in summer. Use high-SPF Sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed Hat, seek shade midday, protect eyes with Sunglasses. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Preventative Measures

Other Health Considerations

Over-the-Counter & Personal Items

  • Cold/flu remedies, allergy medication, antacids, any specific medications for headaches or digestive upset.
  • Personal Hygiene Essentials: Travel-sized quantities of preferred shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste. Small bottle of Hand sanitizer.
  • Specific brands or specialty items might be hard to locate locally.

Emergency & General Safety

  • Unified European Emergency Number: 112 (police, ambulance, fire).
  • Hospitals: Ospedale Santa Maria degli Angeli in Putignano (nearest larger). Comprehensive hospitals in Bari.
  • Crime: Low rates. Pickpocketing possible in crowded areas (historic center, busy public transport). Keep valuables secured.

Activity Gear

Beach & Water Gear

Swimsuit(s), a Quick-dry towel (microfiber towels compact), and Water shoes. Water shoes useful for Polignano a Mare’s pebble beaches (Lama Monachile) and rocky coves, grip and protection.

Hiking & Rental

For more serious walks, Lightweight hiking shoes or sturdy athletic shoes offer good support on varied terrain.

  • Snorkeling gear: Easy to rent, but if you own a high-quality set, bring it.
  • Kayaks/SUPs: Readily available for rent from local shops.
  • Beach Umbrellas/Chairs: Many beach clubs (lidos) offer rentals.
  • Specialty Items: No specific, unique items beyond general beach/water gear.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Beyond obvious items, small items boost comfort, security, and travel convenience.

Bring vs. Rent Decisions

Items to Bring

  • Specific prescription medications (enough for trip).
  • Specialized dietary items.
  • High-quality outdoor gear or specific brands of toiletries you prefer.
  • Bring these, harder to find or more expensive locally.

Items to Rent/Buy Locally

  • Basic snorkeling gear (if not seeking high quality).
  • Kayaks/SUPs.
  • Beach umbrellas/chairs (if not using lidos).
  • These readily available locally.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Fill with tap water to reduce plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For market visits and souvenir shopping.

Reusable Utensils

For picnics or street food, less single-use plastic.

Compact Waste Bag

For proper waste disposal on the go.

Destination Specific Items

Polignano Essentials

  • Light, breathable clothing for humid summer.
  • Small, lightweight Backpack for day trips (water, sunscreen, camera).
  • A power bank for your phone, for navigation and photos.

Difficult to Purchase Locally

  • Specific prescription medications (enough for your entire trip).
  • Specialized dietary items if strict requirements.
  • High-quality outdoor gear or specific brands of toiletries you prefer.

Packing Pro Tip

Roll clothes tightly to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes for organization.

Pack liquids in clear, resealable bags to prevent spills and for easy security checks.