How to Pack for a Trip to Rome

When in Rome… you gotta look the part, right? Packing light and stylish is the move for your trip to the Eternal City. Rome is one of the top travel destinations in the world (I’m talking 35 million visitors a year!), and it’s basically the ultimate dream for culture, history, delicious cuisine, and fashion lovers. But, if you’re staring at your suitcase wondering how to even start packing for those cobblestone streets and Colosseum photo ops don’t stress, I’ve got you. After a few trips to Italy myself, I’m sharing all my go-to packing tips to make sure your Rome trip is comfy, stylish, and totally unforgettable. Let’s jump in! 

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How to Pack for a Trip to Rome

Check the weather. 

Before you start tossing outfits into your suitcase, take a second to check the weather for the time of year you’re visiting Rome. Trust me, it makes a huge difference! Summer in Rome is definitely the most popular time to visit, but heads up it gets seriously hot. That Italian sun doesn’t mess around. Knowing the weather ahead of time is going to make it so much easier to pack for Rome and figure out exactly what you need (and what you can leave at home).

Pack lightly.

I’ll be honest I still struggle sometimes with squeezing a whole trip’s worth of outfits into just a carry-on. But seriously, packing light is key, especially if you’re hopping around Italy (or Europe in general). Lugging a giant 50-pound suitcase up narrow staircases in charming old buildings with no elevators? Not exactly the Italian dream. Be super mindful about what you pack, and try not to overdo it. Don’t forget you’re definitely going to want to leave some extra space for souvenirs. Italy is FULL of goodies you’re going to want to bring home.

Organize with packing cubes.

Packing cubes are seriously a game-changer when it comes to getting ready for your trip to Rome. You’ll be obsessed and never go back to packing any other way! If you roll your clothes and organize them into packing cubes, you can fit way more than you think. Plus, it keeps everything super organized, so you’re not digging through your suitcase and making a mess just to find one item. You can separate your outfits, shoes, accessories whatever you want so you know exactly where everything is. It’s one of those little travel hacks that makes a huge difference.

Bring layers. 

No matter what time of year you’re heading to Rome, layers are always a good idea. Trust me on this one. Even if it’s hot during the day, the temps can definitely drop at night or you might find yourself stepping inside a super old (and super chilly) church where covering your bare shoulders is a must. I always throw a lightweight sweater, shawl, or scarf into my bag. It takes up almost no space, and you’ll be so glad you have it when you need it! 

Consider comfort.

Comfort is everything when it comes to having an amazing vacation. Think about it you’re going to be walking for miles through cobblestone streets, exploring epic ruins and chasing down the best gelato spots. You don’t want blisters or itchy clothes ruining your vibe. Always pack comfy shoes you can actually walk in for hours and breathable outfits that won’t leave you feeling sticky or irritated. Being comfy means staying happy and making way better memories. 

• Looking for hotel options in Rome? Check out my complete guide to where to stay in Rome!

What to Pack for a Trip to Rome

Comfortable Walking Shoes

If you take one thing away from this blog post, let it be this pack comfy walking shoes! Seriously, learn from my mistake. The first time I went to Rome, I only packed cute sandals and my feet were screaming by the end of day one. You’re gonna do A LOT of walking (like 20,000 steps a day) and those gorgeous cobblestone streets are super uneven. Flip flops are not your friend here. 

If you want those cute photo ops (because, of course, you do), bring a pair of stylish sandals to slip into once you get to your destination. I do this everywhere we travel and it’s worked out great so far. But for exploring? Stick with comfortable sneakers all the way! 

Capsule Wardrobe

When it comes to packing light, creating a capsule wardrobe is seriously the best hack for both men and women! You can pull together a ton of outfits without overstuffing your suitcase. I’m talking about packing three or four tops (a mix of short sleeves and long sleeve shirts), two pairs of pants, a skirt, a blazer, and maybe one or two dresses, if that’s your vibe. 

If you pick smart, you can mix and match those pieces into weeks of outfits! The key? Stick to neutral colors that work together so you can swap things around and create totally new looks without overpacking. 

Crossbody Bag

One thing I highly recommend for Rome (and honestly, for any big city) is packing a good cross body bag. You’ll want something comfy to carry your essentials, like your passport, wallet, sunscreen, sunglasses, and phone, while you’re out exploring. 

Crossbodies are the best type of daily travel bag because they keep your hands free for snapping pics or eating gelato (priorities, right?), and they’re way more secure than backpacks or totes. Unfortunately, pickpocketing is pretty common in big touristy cities like Rome, so having your stuff close to you and in sight is a must! 

Related: Check out my Italy Travel Tips blog post here. 

Outlet Adapters

One thing you definitely don’t want to forget when packing for Rome? Plug adapters. Your US chargers won’t fit into European outlets (sadly, it’s not as easy as just plugging and going). I’m a big fan of using a universal adapter because it works pretty much anywhere in the world, talk about a travel win.

In Italy, you’ll mostly run into Type C, Type F, and Type L outlets, so it’s best to be ready for anything. Trust me, the last thing you want is to have your phone die right when you’re trying to snap that perfect Trevi Fountain selfie. 

Reusable Water Bottle

Fun little travel tip: did you know Rome has hundreds of free water fountains all over the city that are still hooked up to ancient aqueducts? It’s seriously the coolest thing ever and the water is totally safe (and super refreshing) to drink.

Save yourself a few euros (and the planet!) by packing a reusable water bottle and filling up as you explore. Especially if you’re visiting during that blazing Roman summer, you’ll be SO glad you have it to stay hydrated while wandering those charming streets. 

Sunscreen

Remember how I said that Italian sun is no joke? Yeah, I wasn’t kidding. You’re definitely going to want to wear sunscreen every single day while you’re in Rome especially if you’re visiting in the spring and summer. Nothing ruins a dream vacation faster than a gnarly sunburn. Lather up before heading out, and toss a travel-sized SPF in your bag so you can reapply throughout the day. Your future self (and skin!) will thank you. 

Sunglasses

Whether you’re trying to level up your outfit or just protect your eyes from that bright Roman sun, sunglasses are a must! And here’s a little pro tip: if you forget to pack yours (no shame, it happens!), you can snag some super stylish Italian designer shades way cheaper in Rome than you can back home in the US. Talk about a win-win: functional and a fabulous souvenir.

Portable Charger

Between navigating the city with Google Maps, snapping pics of all the dreamy streets (and let’s be real, your pasta too), and posting all the goodness to Instagram, your phone battery is gonna drain fast. That’s why bringing a portable phone charger is a total must. Trust me you do not want to be stuck somewhere in Rome with a dead phone trying to figure out how to get back to your hotel. Pack that charger and thank yourself later! 

First-Aid Kit

Traveling can seriously take a toll on your body especially when you’re out there walking 15k+ steps a day (hello, blisters) or feeling a little off from lack of sleep. That’s why I always recommend packing a little travel first-aid kit. Toss in some Band-Aids, Tylenol, and Neosporin just the basics. It’s one of those things you don’t think you’ll need… until you really need it. So, it’s better to be prepared and keep the good vibes rolling while you’re abroad! 

Scarf or Shawl

Whether you’re popping in for church visits while wandering around Rome or planning a full day at the Vatican, it’s so important to be mindful of the dress codes at religious sites. That’s why I always recommend keeping a lightweight scarf or shawl in your bag. You can easily throw it over your shoulders or tie it around your waist if your outfit is a little too bare. It’s the easiest way to stay respectful (and stylish) while checking out some of the most stunning churches in the world. 

Sun Hat

If you’re planning a trip to Rome in the summer, I highly recommend packing a sun hat! That midday heat is no joke, and having some extra shade will make a huge difference when you’re out exploring. Plus, there are so many cute hat options you can pair with your outfits it’s the perfect way to stay cool and look super chic while strolling through Italy’s gorgeous capital city. 

Camera and Tripod

There are so many iconic photo ops around Rome you’re definitely going to want to take advantage of them! If you have a favorite high-quality camera (I love my DSLR camera and point-and-shoot), now’s the time to dust it off and put it to good use. If you’re traveling solo or with your significant other, it’s a good idea to pack a little tripod. It’s a total game-changer for snapping those adorable, IG-worthy pics without having to awkwardly ask strangers for help! 

Travel Umbrella

If you’re heading to Rome in the spring or fall, be ready for those surprise rain showers or cloudy afternoons. I always recommend tossing a small travel umbrella in your bag. It barely takes up any space, and you’ll be so glad you have it when everyone else is running around in soggy shoes. Better safe (and dry!) than sorry.

Basic Toiletries

It’s always a good move to pack a few travel-size toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, face wash, and soap to kick off your trip. Just enough to get you through those first few days, and if you need to stock up later, no worries you can pop into a local grocery store or check out Italian store chains like DM or Tigotà to grab more (and even try out some fun new European brands while you’re at it!).

Tote Bag 

One of my favorite inside tips when traveling? Always pack a tote bag or shopper bag with you! In Rome (and pretty much all over Europe), you usually have to pay for a plastic or paper bag when you shop even at grocery stores. So if you plan on picking up a few things (and you probably will!), having a tote on hand makes it way easier (and way cuter) to carry your finds back to your hotel. Plus, it’s better for the planet!

Related: Where To Stay in Rome

Rome Packing List

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Start planning your trip to Rome with confidence, equipped with insider tips for an unforgettable experience!

Visiting Rome is one of the most magical experiences ever. There’s truly something for everyone in this gorgeous city, but knowing what to pack, what to do, and how to get around is key to making it the trip you’ll never forget. 

If you’re craving even more Rome inspo, don’t miss my blog posts on “How to Visit the Colosseum” and the “Best Things to Do in Italy.” They’ll help you squeeze every last drop of magic out of your adventure! For even more travel vibes, come hang out with me on Instagram at @sierrainthecity.