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My personal experience with Rome is that both the weather and setting can change drastically throughout the day, which makes packing a challenge. Lots of the famous sights include a fair amount of walking so you want to be comfortable. But, as soon as the sightseeing is done you’ll be spending your night at a trendy wine bar or beautiful restaurant – so you’ll want to look your best! Keep reading to learn what to pack for Rome!

 

Bonus Tip: read this and find out what to wear to the Vatican!

 

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What to Pack for Rome

Written by: Kelly Ella Maz

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Cute runners – The perfect pair of shoes!

 

The most important item you’ll need to consider when planning what to pack for Rome is the perfect pair of shoes. You’ll do a lot of walking in Rome, sometimes uphill and almost always on uneven cobblestone streets.

A cute pair of Nike’s or Converse can be worn with jeans, shorts or leggings and will keep you comfy all day. With skirts and dresses try a pair of Sperry Top Siders or comfortable flats – both of which are very high quality so your feet will never hurt. I’d skip the heels or sandals in Rome, unless you plan on taking cabs everywhere – which are both expensive and difficult to find. Nothing will ruin your time in Rome more than achy feet.

 

 

When in doubt, black is best.

 

The women in Rome have a very classic style to them! “High quality basics in black” is the unofficial uniform for Italian women. If you want to fit in (and pack versatile items) bring plenty of multi-purpose black pieces when you plan what to pack for Rome. A short black dress can be worn day or night, and a black top can be worn with jeans or a skirt. Leave the patterned maxi skirts or boho-style dresses at home – too many colorful pieces are not only difficult to match, but look out of place here.

 

 

Wrap it up in a stylish trench coat.

 

Unless you’re visiting during the peak of summer I’d also pack a trench coat. A well-fitted trench adds an instantly chic touch to any outfit and keeps you warm on cool evenings or chilly spring mornings. Trench coats are also quite versatile because they look equally good over dresses or jeans. This is the only coat you need to take when you plan what to pack for Rome, especially if you choose a neutral color like beige, black or navy.

 

 

Chic and practical in a floppy hat.

 

A floppy felt hat will serve double duty in Rome. With sights like St. Peter’s Square and the Colosseum having very little shade, a hat is ideal for keeping the sun off your face. Not only will you have some protection from the sun, but you’ll also look fashionable while spending less time on your hair. A fab look and less getting-ready-time while travelling? That’s a win in my books!

 

 

 

 

Ready for anything in smart layers.

 

To combat the ever-changing weather I’d recommend packing plenty of layers as you plan your wardrobe and what to pack for Rome. Layer a cardigan over your dress when it gets cooler at night to transition a daytime outfit to evening. I also like to roll a pair of leggings into my purse so that I can put them on underneath my dress if it starts to get cold out. A scarf is another item you can keep stashed in your purse (or tied around the handle) to wear throughout the day if needed. Lastly, I also wear tight-fitting tank tops underneath button down shirts for hot afternoons.

 

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What are your tips when planning what to pack for Rome?

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For more Italy packing tips, please read:

• 10 Step Packing Guide for Italy
• What to Wear in Italy: Dress Like a Local
• The Ultimate Fashion Guide for Your Trip to Italy in Summer
• What to Wear in Rome: Italy Packing List

 

Suggested travel resources:

• Lonely Planet Europe on a shoestring
• Lonely Planet Italy (Country Guide)
• Travel Shoes for Europe
• The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe

 

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Hope you’ve liked this post on what to pack for Rome. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

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Author Bio:

Kelly Ella Maz is a writer and full-time traveller. Originally from Canada, she left her home to chase summer around the globe. She’s currently living in Sydney, Australia where she spends her days exploring new cafes and hidden beaches. You can follow her travels at www.kellyellamaz.com.

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