Tuscany, Italy
These shoulder seasons feature pleasant days and cooler evenings. Layering is as weather can shift quickly.
Summer involves hot, dry weather. Winter brings cool to cold temperatures, with a need for warmth.
Pack comfortable, supportive walking shoes or sturdy Walking sandals. Sneakers with good cushioning are ideal for uneven cobblestone streets and hills.
Consider a pair of dressier shoes for evenings if dining at nicer restaurants. Flip-flops are for pool areas, not cobblestones.
Break in any new shoes before your trip to avoid blisters. You will spend a lot of time on your feet.
Keep your important documents secure and accessible. Carry originals and copies.
Italy uses Type F (Schuko) and Type L (Italian standard) sockets, 230V at 50Hz. A Universal travel adapter with USB ports is suggested. Most modern devices are dual voltage.
For high-quality photos, a mirrorless or DSLR camera is a good choice. A compact Travel camera or modern Smartphone also captures excellent shots. B&H Photo offers gear.
Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud offer convenient ways to back up photos and documents while traveling.
A Portable external hard drive provides a physical backup solution for large amounts of data like photos.
For secure public Wi-Fi, consider a VPN service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.
A well-stocked personal health kit readies you for minor issues. Pack a basic Travel first aid kit.
Carry all prescription medications in original containers with documentation. Over-the-counter remedies for common travel ailments are also useful.
For extensive walks through the countryside or Via Francigena sections, a sturdy Daypack or Small backpack is useful.
Serious photographers find a Camera bag, extra lenses, and a Lightweight tripod (for sunset/night shots) useful.
Bicycles (including e-bikes) are easily rented from local shops. Bringing your own is often not practical unless on a dedicated cycling tour.
Don't forget these for comfort, security, and convenience.
Certain brands or items may be difficult to find locally.
Reduces plastic waste; tap water is safe.
For markets or groceries; avoids plastic bags.
Good for picnics and market food.
Minimizes environmental impact.
Consider rolling clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes for organization and compression.
Pack versatile items that can be mixed and matched. Prioritize comfort and practicality for walking the medieval streets.