Your Go-To Italy Study Abroad Packing List

In winter, the clothes to bring to Italy include: 

• Warm coats, jackets, and sweaters: Italy can get quite cold during the winter, so you will need to pack warm (and ideally waterproof or water resistant) outerwear to keep you comfortable. A heavy coat or jacket is a must, as is a sweater or two. 

• Long pants and jeans: Pack several pairs of long pants or jeans to keep your legs warm. Consider bringing a mix of dressier pants for more formal occasions and more casual jeans for everyday wear. 

• Warm socks and boots: Winter in Italy can be wet and chilly, so you will want to pack plenty of warm socks to wear with your boots. Waterproof boots with good traction are a must, as the streets can be slippery in the winter. Do make sure your boots are comfortable as well since you’ll be walking around … a lot. 

• Hats, gloves, and scarves: To keep your head, hands, and neck warm, you should pack a hat, gloves, and scarf. These items will help you stay cozy and comfortable, even on the coldest days. 

• Lighter clothing for layering: As mentioned, the weather in Italy can vary, so it’s a good idea to pack lighter clothing that can be worn under your heavier items. This will allow you to adjust to changes in the weather without having to carry a lot of extra clothing. 

• A mix of casual and formal clothing: You never know what fun opportunities will come your way while in Italy. So, pack one or two nicer outfits just in case. On a similar note, make sure you bring really comfortable shoes that allow you to explore all the sites with happy feet. 

In spring, the clothes to bring to Italy include: 

• Light jacket or sweater: Spring in Italy can be cool and rainy, so it's important to pack a light jacket or sweater to keep warm. Look for something waterproof and breathable, like a rain jacket or windbreaker. 

• Light pants or jeans: Spring weather can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to pack both light pants and jeans. Look for pants that are comfortable and easy to move in, and that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. 

• Comfortable walking shoes: As mentioned before, you’ll be doing a lot of exploring throughout the city (if not beyond), so be sure your shoes are comfortable to walk a lot.  

• A mix of casual and formal clothing: Don’t let poor planning prevent you from new experiences. Pack one or two nicer outfits just in case. 

• Umbrella: It tends to be rainy during the spring, so don’t forget your umbrella! 

LEARN MORE ABOUT SPRING IN ROME

What to Pack for the Summer in Italy 

• Lightweight tops: You should pack lightweight, breathable tops such as t-shirts, tank tops, and dresses. 

• Lightweight bottoms: You’ll probably want to pack some shorts and maybe even a pair of lightweight, breathable pants for certain occasions. 

• Vatican-approved attire: If you’ll be visiting the Vatican, know there is a dress code you’ll need to adhere to – even on hot summer days. Shoulders must be covered at all times; shorts, skirts, and dresses are not allowed; no hats or caps; and ripped jeans, t-shirts, and see-through clothing are also discouraged. And if you have an offensive tattoo or religious symbol, make sure it’s covered. 

• Sun protection: You'll want to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun, as well as sunscreen.  

• Light jacket or cardigan: In addition to your summer clothes, you'll also want to pack a light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings and air-conditioned buildings.  

• Comfortable walking shoes: We can’t stress this enough. A pair of comfortable walking shoes is a must, as you'll likely be doing a lot of sightseeing on foot. Even though sandals and flip flops might feel like fun footwear for Rome’s hot, gorgeous summer days, sneakers or walking shoes are much more practical. 

• A mix of casual and formal clothing: Again, throw in a dressier outfit or two in the event you want to attend a performance or eat at a nicer restaurant. It’s just more fun when you get to dress for the occasion.  

• Light jackets and sweaters: The weather in Italy during the fall can be cool and crisp, so you will want to pack a jacket or sweater to keep you comfortable. A light jacket or cardigan is a good option, as is a sweater or two. 
• Long pants and jeans: You will want to pack several pairs of long pants or jeans to keep your legs warm. Consider packing a mix of dressier pants for more formal occasions and more casual jeans for everyday wear. 

• Comfortable shoes: Once again, comfortable shoes are a must. Fall in Italy can be a great time to explore, so you will want comfortable shoes suitable for walking. Your feet will thank you. Consider packing a pair of sturdy walking shoes, as well as a pair of dressier shoes for more formal occasions. 

• Hats, gloves, and scarves: To keep your head, hands, and neck warm, you should pack a hat, gloves, and scarf. These items will help you stay warm and comfortable, even on cooler days. 

• Lighter clothing for layering: As mentioned, the weather in Italy can fluctuate, so it is a good idea to pack lighter clothing that can be worn under your heavier items. This will allow you to adjust to changes in the weather without having to carry a lot of extra clothing. 

• A mix of casual and formal clothing: Don’t let poor wardrobe choices prevent you from attending a really great event. So, bring a nicer outfit or two, just to be safe. 

• Rain gear: Fall in Rome can get rainy, so pack accordingly. Bring rainboots, a rain coat, and a reliable umbrella.