Tuscany, Italy
Volterra's distinct seasons indicate your wardrobe needs to adapt. Layering forms an universally beneficial strategy. For spring, pack a Light jacket or trench coat, sweaters/cardigans, Long-sleeved shirts, and t-shirts. A Waterproof jacket or Small umbrella for sudden rain is useful. For summer, focus on lightweight, breathable fabrics. Bring a Swimsuit if your accommodation has a pool. A Light shawl or cardigan comes in handy for cooler evenings or air-conditioned interiors, and for covering up at religious sites. Autumn needs layering similar to spring. Winter calls for wool sweaters, thermal underwear, a warm, insulated coat, a Scarf, a hat, and Gloves. A waterproof outer layer comes in handy for rain.
Keeping your documents organized and accessible prevents stress during your trip. Having both physical and digital copies stands as a wise practice. Carry your valid passport and visa (if applicable). Make photocopies and store digital copies securely (e.g., cloud service, password-protected USB drive, or email attachment). Have your travel insurance policy details (policy number, emergency contact) readily available.
Comfortable, Supportive walking shoes are a must. Volterra features hilly terrain and uneven cobblestone streets, which challenge unsuitable footwear.
Breathable Walking sandals with good arch support or comfortable Sneakers work well. Avoid flimsy flip-flops for extensive walking.
Waterproof boots or sturdy, warm shoes are recommended for handling rain and potentially damp streets.
Staying connected and powered up aids navigation, communication, and capturing memories. Italy uses 230V at 50Hz. Plug types are Type F (Schuko) and Type L. A Universal travel adapter with EU compatibility comes recommended. Check that your devices are dual-voltage.
A Smartphone camera often suffices for good quality travel photos. For photography enthusiasts, a mirrorless or DSLR camera with a versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm equivalent) works well for Volterra's varied landscapes and architecture. B&H Photo features good equipment. A Compact travel tripod proves useful for stable shots in low light or for long exposures, especially for evening views of the city. Bring extra batteries and memory cards.
Download offline maps for areas with spotty reception, like rural roads or deep within old city centers. Google Maps or Apple Maps are top choices for navigation. For translation, Google Translate (download offline Italian language packs) or DeepL Translate work well. WhatsApp sees wide use in Italy for messaging among businesses and individuals.
A small, well-stocked Personal first aid kit and your personal medications are very helpful. For the kit, include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers like Ibuprofen, Anti-diarrhea medication (Imodium), allergy medication, and Hydrocortisone cream for bites or rashes. Moleskin or blister patches are important for comfortable walking on cobblestone streets. Carry an adequate supply of prescription medications in original packaging, with a doctor's note, especially for controlled substances.
For hiking, comfortable, supportive walking shoes or light hiking boots, a Small daypack, and a water bottle find application when exploring trails.
Your camera, extra batteries, and memory cards ensure you capture all your moments. Consider a tripod for stable shots.
You can rent bicycles (including e-bikes) locally or in larger Tuscan towns for countryside exploration. This skips the trouble of transporting your own bike.
Small additions elevate comfort, security, and convenience. A Travel neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs make long flights or journeys more comfortable. A Money belt or concealed passport holder boosts security for valuables. An RFID-blocking wallet shields credit cards. A Small padlock for luggage adds an extra layer of protection.
A Reusable water bottle holds application as tap water is safe to drink. A Reusable shopping bag helps with market purchases and cuts down plastic waste. Travel utensils find utility if you plan to buy food from markets or delis for picnics. Nothing uniquely specific beyond general travel preparation applies here. Specific prescription medications are best brought from home. Certain sizes or types of clothing, notably if you have very specific needs, might be harder to find in a smaller town like Volterra. Personal preference toiletries not widely available international brands need packing.
Reduces plastic waste and saves money.
For market visits and purchases.
Avoids buying multiple adapters.
Powers devices on the go, reducing reliance on outlets.
Pack light to easily navigate Volterra's hilly, cobbled streets. Roll your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles.
Consider packing cubes for organization. Always leave some empty space in your luggage for souvenirs, especially alabaster carvings.
