MileHacker Logo
What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Umbria And Le Marche, Italy

Layering & Seasonal Attire

Temperatures might change notably throughout the day, particularly in spring and autumn. Mornings might feel cool, warming by midday, then cooling again in the evening. A simple system of Base layers (T-shirts or light long-sleeved tops), mid-layers (sweaters, cardigans, or fleece), and an outer layer (jacket) allows easy temperature adjustments. Even in summer, evenings might feel cooler, and air-conditioned interiors of shops or museums chilly. A light shawl or cardigan serves as a useful addition for warmth.

Seasonal Tips

Cultural Dress & Modesty

Italy, notably in a religiously significant town like Assisi, values modest dress when visiting churches, basilicas, and sacred sites. For both men and women, shoulders and knees must have coverage. This applies to all major basilicas and churches. It always aids to err on the side of caution with your attire in these settings.

Modesty Guide

  • Women: Carry a lightweight Shawl or scarf in your day bag for quick coverage.
  • Men: Avoid sleeveless shirts and overly short shorts.
  • Activity-Specific: Casual dress for most trattorias/pizzerias; smart casual for upscale restaurants.

Footwear Recommendations

Required Daily Wear

Extremely comfortable, supportive Walking shoes or sneakers are most important. Assisi’s streets are steep, winding, and paved with uneven cobblestones.

Your feet will appreciate them after a day of exploration.

Hiking Specific

If you plan to hike Monte Subasio, Lightweight hiking shoes or sturdy Trail shoes with good grip garner recommendation. Bring moisture-wicking Socks to prevent blisters.

For exploring Monte Subasio's trails.

Evening Options

Bring comfortable but dressier Sandals or shoes if you prefer a more formal look for evening dining, but prioritize comfort. Avoid high heels on cobblestones.

Comfort remains paramount for evening wear.

Essential Documents

Important Travel Papers

Having both physical and digital copies serves well. Always keep original documents in a secure place, like a hotel safe, when not needed. Carry photocopies or digital images in a separate location.

  • Passport and Visa: Carry originals and keep copies.
  • Travel Insurance: Print policy details with emergency numbers. Save digital versions.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): Legally needed if driving for non-EU citizens. Obtain in your home country.
  • Vaccination/Health Records: Not required for entry, but a doctor's note for conditions/medications proves helpful in an emergency.
  • Reservations: Copies of hotel bookings, train/bus tickets, tour confirmations. Digital and printed backups.
  • Emergency Contacts: List of family/friends, embassy/consulate in Italy, travel insurer emergency line.
  • IDs for Discounts: Student (ISIC), Senior, or Press IDs might secure museum discounts.
  • Organized Planning: VisaHQ helps with passport/visa needs.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Italy uses Type F (Schuko) and Type L (Italian) electrical outlets. Standard voltage is 230V at 50Hz. If your devices operate on a different voltage (e.g., 110V in the U.S.), you will need a Voltage converter in addition to an Adapter. Most modern electronics are dual voltage, so a simple Universal travel adapter is usually sufficient. Check device labels.

Mobile Phone & SIMs

  • Most smartphones are compatible with European mobile networks.
  • Consider a local SIM card upon arrival (Vodafone, TIM, WindTre) or an ESIM purchased online.
  • Portable chargers with at least 10,000mAh capacity for multiple charges.

Camera & Apps

Assisi offers stunning photo opportunities. A versatile mirrorless or DSLR camera with a Wide-angle lens works well. A compact Travel zoom lens for various situations. A Small tripod for low-light shots. Extra batteries and memory cards.

Recommended Apps & Backup

  • Navigation: Google Maps (download offline maps).
  • Translation: Google Translate (offline Italian language pack).
  • Public Transport: Trenitalia, Moovit or Busitalia Umbria.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Cloud services (e.g., Google Photos, iCloud, Dropbox) for automatic photo backups.

External Drive

A Small external hard drive for larger photo collections.

Vpn

NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit aids minor issues and cultivation of comfort throughout your travels. A small, compact Travel first aid kit covers these basics.

Kit Contents

Sun & Insect Protection

These items gain importance, especially for warmer months. Include high SPF Sunscreen, a Wide-brimmed hat, and Sunglasses. Adventure Medical Kits for first aid supplies.

Protection Essentials

Specific Health Needs

Prescription & OTC Meds

  • Bring enough prescription medications for your trip, in original containers.
  • Travel-sized over-the-counter medications for common issues.
  • Hydrocortisone cream for skin irritations.

Personal Hygiene

  • Travel-sized versions of preferred toiletries are convenient.
  • Most toiletries are locally available.
  • Practice good hand hygiene.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

For Monte Subasio, sturdy, broken-in Hiking shoes with good ankle support are recommended.

  • A Small daypack for water, snacks, and layers.
  • Moisture-wicking Socks to prevent blisters.
  • Appropriate hiking trousers or shorts.
  • Moisture-wicking tops are useful.

Photography Needs

Extra camera batteries are a must, as are additional memory cards. A lens cleaning cloth Aids clear shots.

Rental Considerations

Consider renting bicycles locally if you plan to cycle only for a day or two, rather than bringing your own. For specialized hiking gear, evaluate if renting or buying is more practical.

  • Evaluate if renting or buying is practical.
  • Renting bicycles might prove a better choice.
  • Check local shops in Santa Maria degli Angeli for Bicycle rentals.
  • For specialized gear, assess needs vs. Cost.

Packing Efficiency

Space-Saving Tactics

Security & Convenience

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comfort & Security

These items cultivate comfort, security, and overall travel experience. A Pacsafe bag might offer extra security.

Essentials for a Smooth Journey

  • Neck pillow and eye mask for restful long journeys.
  • Earplugs to help with noisy surroundings.
  • Money belt or neck wallet for discreetly carrying cash and passport.
  • Small luggage locks for added bag security.

Sustainable & Specific Items

Opt for Nordace modern travel bags. If you rely on specific brands, bring them from home; they might exist as unavailable or expensive locally.

Eco-Friendly & Unique Needs

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Cutlery

For picnics and reducing waste.

Water Bottle

Refill from public fountains.

Shopping Bag

For market purchases.

Water Filtration

Not needed for tap, but good for remote areas.

Destination-Specific Items

Required for Assisi's Terrain

  • Sturdy, comfortable Walking shoes for cobblestones and inclines.
  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) for hilltop exposure.
  • Modest clothing (shoulders/knees covered) for church visits.

Consider for Umbrian Exploration

  • Lightweight hiking gear if exploring Monte Subasio trails.
  • Camera with extra batteries and memory for scenic views.
  • A compact umbrella for spring/autumn rain.

Packing Smart Tips

Roll your clothes instead of folding them to preserve space in your luggage and minimize wrinkles.

Use Packing cubes to organize your items and separate clean from dirty laundry.