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Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world and a beautiful city to add to your tour of Italy. Here are our tips for what to wear in Milan in every season!
What to Wear in Milan
Table Of Contents
Milan holds the title of the most fashionable city in Italy, and is one of the fashion capitals of the world! Both locals and tourists help maintain the chic ambiance that oozes from every street corner in the city.
Find out what to wear on your trip to Milan to look chic and sophisticated while keeping things practical and comfy on long sightseeing days!
For more ideas on what to wear in Italy, please read this Ten Step Italy Packing Guide!
Read our complete Italy packing list for more tips!
Quince Vintage Wash Tencel Button Front Midi Dress | J.Crew Classic Denim Jacket
What Do People Wear in Milan?
Fashion in Milan is the same as other parts of the world. There are a variety of Italian attire style preferences to reflect the tastes of different personalities. Over the years, Italian fashion, along with that of other European countries, has become more casual, but that’s not to be confused with gym clothing.
That said, Milan is a European hub of fashion. As a result, the style in Milan tends to be slightly dressier than North America, and generally more cutting edge than other parts of Europe. Locals embrace their unique sense of fashion that combines timeless style with edgier pieces.
Overall, clothing in Italy generally tends to be well-tailored and polished. A tailored look is the true secret to the Italian everyday fashion observed by visitors.
Street style stars don’t only come out to play during Fashion Week, which is held in September and February each year. You can get outfit inspiration from the bella Italian ladies who stroll these ancient streets any time of year. Take notes for your capsule wardrobe!
Banana Republic Siena Slim Italian Wool Blazer | Lo & Sons Waverley 2 Bag
What Should I Wear in Milan?
The most important factors in planning and packing for Milan are the activities you’ll be doing on your trip AND the weather.
Always, always, always check the weather forecast before your trip. Nothing will ruin your trip faster than being unprepared with the wrong clothing for the weather.
Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a capsule travel wardrobe, which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing.
Cole Haan GrandPro Topspin Sneaker | Naturalizer Ankle Straps Wedge Sandals
What Are the Best Shoes for Milan?
When it comes to shoes, always choose form and function over fashion! Milan is a walkable city, and you’ll be on your feet all day long, so be sure to choose comfortable shoes. Consider leather boots for the colder months and simple, stylish sneakers for the warmer months.
Locals like to dine out with style and elegance, so you may want to bring some dressier shoes, too, such as ballet flats or loafers. Readers suggest avoiding heels, as you’ll likely be walking from place to place and want to stay grounded and comfortable on the city streets.
Longsleeve | Shirt | Sweater | T Shirt | Jeans | Raincoat | Jacket | Pants | Bag | Scarf | Boots | Sneakers
What to Wear in Milan in the Spring (March, April, May)
In the springtime, flowers begin to bloom and the city becomes enjoyable to stroll around in! Temps are quite mild, gradually increasing from the mid-50s F to the low 70s throughout the season. You’ll typically see a mix of sun, gloom, and rain in the springtime, so be sure to have waterproof layers on hand so that you don’t miss out on any exploring!
Eddie Bauer Favorite Long-Sleeve Crewneck T-Shirt | Sizes XS-3X
Tops for Spring
Readers say that the springtime weather can be all over the place in Milan, so be sure to pack some versatile layers.
Polished long sleeve t-shirts will be a great foundation to your capsule wardrobe. Opt for neutral colors and well-tailored cuts to keep styling easy!
This Eddie Bauer long sleeve tee is a great pick for an active day of exploration. It’s soft, stretchy, and holds its shape well.
Quince 100% European Linen Long Sleeve Shirt | Sizes XS-XL
Button down shirts are another great addition that’ll add some sophistication to your looks. This crisp and comfy linen button down from Quince will elevate any outfit and will make a great going-out top, too!
Be sure to pack some pretty sweaters, too! Cashmere, merino wool, and alpaca sweaters will give you lightweight insulation on cold spring days. They’ll be durable and travel-friendly, with a pretty and polished look.
Quince Ultra-Stretch Ponte Straight Leg Pants: Sizes XS-XL | 1X-3X
Bottoms for Spring
Depending on where you’re staying, you’ll likely be out and about all day long, so it’s a good idea to bring clothing that easily transitions from day to night and will feel comfortable throughout the day.
If you want to keep it polished as you sightsee, wide leg trousers and ponte pants are chic yet practical options.
These Quince ponte pants are adored by readers for their comfort, fashionable straight-leg silhouette, and affordable price tag. They look dressy but feel like yoga pants, so they’re an incredibly versatile wardrobe staple!
Wit & Wisdom Ab Solution Skyrise Wide Leg Jeans | Sizes 2-16
Dark wash jeans are another staple that you’ll have on repeat during your trip, and they’re a go-to among locals! Readers note that while wide leg and straight leg styles are “in” with the Italian locals right now, you’ll see locals in skinny jeans, too, so pack what works for you!
If you’re looking for a bold pair to strut around the city in, these Wit & Wisdom wide leg jeans are the ones! This vintage-inspired pair features a long, flowy silhouette, a high waist, and shaping technology that’ll give you the most flattering look, all while keeping you comfy.
A pretty maxi skirt is another great addition to your packing list. Perfect for a romantic night out or a day of shopping, they’ll be cute and comfy paired with a cashmere sweater and some stylish sneakers!
Wool& Rowena Lightweight Swing Dress | Sizes XS-3X
Dresses for Spring
Despite the chilly weather, there are so many occasions to wear dresses in Milan in the springtime.
If you want a cute and casual option for sightseeing, opt for a merino wool dress. They’re ideal for the fluctuating weather that the season brings, and they’re incredibly travel-friendly, too.
Wool&’s Rowena swing dress is a cute and easygoing pick with cozy long sleeves and a flattering a-line shape. It’s wrinkle-resistant, odor-resistant, and great for layering, too.
Quince 100% Silk Jersey Midi Wrap Dress | Sizes XS-XL
If you’re seeing the opera at Teatro alla Scala or have reservations at fine-dining restaurants, then pack a dressier option! It’ll be much colder at night, so choose an elegant midi or maxi dress to give you a bit of extra coverage. Be sure to pack some tights, too!
You can never go wrong with an LBD like this silk midi wrap dress from Quince. The fabric is smooth and luxurious but also quite low-maintenance and wrinkle-resistant!
Land’s End Squall Waterproof Modern Trench Raincoat | Sizes XS-3X
Jackets for Spring
While the rainy season isn’t too intense in Milan, it’s likely that you’ll see a few rainy days during your trip. April in particular is the rainiest month, so waterproof layers are key to making sure you can comfortably explore the city no matter the weather.
A rain jacket is a springtime essential, but if you want to keep it stylish with an option that looks good rain or shine, then go for a trench coat! This classic trench coat from Lands’ End is practical, chic, and can be dressed up or down.
UGG Ronney Water Resistant Crop Puffer Jacket | Sizes XS-3X
If you’re traveling early in the season, the temperatures will still be quite chilly, especially at night. A waterproof puffer jacket is a fashionable yet minimalist option that’ll keep you cozy and pair well with any outfit!
UGG’s Ronney puffer jacket is a fashion-forward pick that’s slightly cropped and ultra-cozy due to its ribbed thumbhole cuffs and fleece lining!
Dolce Vita Huey H2O Waterproof Bootie: Amazon
Shoes for Spring
If there’s one footwear staple that Italian locals are known for, it’s chic leather boots! A comfortable pair is only stylish but very practical for stomping around the city, so they’re a great essential to pack.
You can walk comfortably for miles in these Dolce Vita booties, and their waterproof construction is a handy feature for the springtime. This pretty pair is easy to dress up for dinner and drinks, too!
Waterproof mid-calf boots are another fashion-forward option that look great with pants and dresses. Make sure they have excellent traction and a bit of a European edge!
Shop Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Time Off Sneakers: Amazon | Nordstrom | Dr. Scholl’s
Sneakers are another great option to pack for your city escapades. Choose something that balances style and comfort, like these cute Dr. Scholl’s Time Off sneakers! Your feet will appreciate the cushioning and arch support, and they’re sure to complement the rest of your packing list with a retro-inspired design.
Shirt 1 | Button Down Shirt | Shirt 2 | Jacket | Cardigan | Pants | Skirt | Dress | Bag | Hat | Sneaker | Flats
What to Wear in Milan in the Summer (June, July, August)
Summer in Milan guarantees hot and sunny days that require lightweight clothing and a daily gelato! Temperatures reach the 80s F (high 20s-31 C), and there will be quite a bit of humidity, too, so stay hydrated! And while the days can be sweltering, keep in mind that it cools off quite a bit in the evenings.
Mango V-Neck Linen T-Shirt | Sizes XS-L
Tops for Summer
Keep it cool and comfortable with a few simple t-shirts. Linen and cotton are ideal fabrics that’ll let your skin breathe and handle the humidity well. Stick with slim or well-tailored cuts to keep your outfits looking more polished and chic.
This linen pocket t-shirt from Mango is a great basic to have on rotation during your summer trip. It’s stylishly slouchy, while the 100% linen fabric gives it an elevated vibe.
Quince 100% European Linen Short Sleeve Shirt | Sizes XS-XL
Pretty linen blouses are also great additions to your packing list. It’s always nice to have a few dressier options for dining out or taking photos at the Duomo! This Quince linen top is street-style ready, with boxy tailoring and a luxuriously laid back energy.
A breathable long sleeve button down shirt is another great piece to have for the slightly cooler times of day. Whether tucked into jeans or layered over a dress, it’s a versatile piece that’s perfect for breezy summer nights or crisp early mornings!
Athleta Endless Pants | Sizes 0-26
Bottoms for Summer
Moisture-wicking pants will be a dream on busy sightseeing days. They’ll keep things cool and comfortable all day long, and many options have the neutral, elevated look of trousers!
The Athleta Endless pants are a reader-recommended pair that combines style with ease! Boasting light, breathable, and sweat-wicking fabric, they’re perfect for busy days.
Cropped pants and long shorts are also wonderful options that’ll keep you comfortable in the heat. Look for contemporary tailoring and practical fabrics!
J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Skirt | Sizes XXS-3X
Skirts are perfect for hot and sunny days in Milan. Keep it versatile with a midi skirt that you can dress down with a tee and sneakers or dress up with a blouse and sandals!
J.Crew’s Gwyneth slip skirt is feminine and elegant, perfect for strolling through bustling neighborhoods or enjoying a delicious dinner. It has a luxurious look but is kept comfy with its loose fit and hidden elastic waistband.
While you don’t need to worry about dressing conservatively in Milan, readers note that locals typically don’t show a lot of skin, and you won’t see a lot of short shorts around town. In addition, you’ll need to have your knees covered if you plan on touring the inside of some of the city’s stunning cathedrals and churches, so have longer styles packed.
Pact Fit & Flare Midi Dress | Sizes XS-3X
Dresses for Summer
Sundresses are a must for summer in Italy! Whether admiring art in Museums, enjoying an aperitivo along the canals, or taking a day trip to Como, a chic dress is the way to go.
With its flattering A-line shape and midi length, the Pact Fit & Flare Midi Dress is both effortlessly stylish and ultra-comfortable. Crafted from soft, breathable 100% organic cotton, it keeps you cool and comfortable all day long. The clean design and versatile fit make it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re dressing it up or keeping it casual.
Quince 100% European Linen Button Front Dress | Sizes XS-XL
Linen dresses are breezy options for the high daytime temps, and they’re perfect for a dressy night out, too! Choose a midi or maxi length for versatility and elegance.
Elegant in its simplicity, this Quince linen dress offers plenty of comfort with its airy fabric and loose yet feminine design. This classic piece definitely belongs in the quaint neighborhoods of Milan!
Caslon Everyday Open Front Cardigan | Sizes XS-XL
Jackets for Summer
Despite the daytime heat, you may want to carry a light layer with you if you’ll be wearing tank tops or sleeveless dresses and plan on visiting the Duomo or other religious sites. A lightweight cardigan or travel wrap is easy to store in your day bag, and they’re great options for pairing with nicer dresses in the evening.
This cute option from Caslon is understated and versatile, with wonderfully soft fabric that features a blend of temperature-regulating merino wool and drapes beautifully.
Tommy Bahama Two Palms Linen Raw Edge Jacket | Sizes XS-XL
A lightweight linen blazer or a linen jacket is another great addition for exploring Milan by night. Go for something crisp and structured in a neutral color!
Readers love Tommy Bahama’s Two Palms jacket for their summer travels! The epitome of laid-back luxury, this trucker jacket features 100% linen construction and cool frayed edges.
Rothy’s The Original Slip On Sneaker
Shoes for Summer
On-trend sneakers (whether sporty or classic) are the best sightseeing shoes for summer in Milan, as the city streets can be tough on exposed feet. Choose something comfortable and durable but also cute!
Slip on sneakers are always sleek and versatile, and they look great with skirts and dresses as well as casual pants. With clean lines and practical comfort, the Original slip ons by Rothy’s are perfect for strutting around the streets of Milan. They boast a plush footbed, a flexible exterior, and easy-to-clean materials.
For the evenings that you get dressed up, bring along some leather ballet flats or strappy leather sandals. Milan is such a walkable city, so even if you plan on taking a car to the restaurant or bar, make sure your shoes are comfy enough for an impromptu stroll!
Readers like the chic, classic look of these Margaux Demi ballet flats, which are made all the better by their foam insoles, flexible fit, and multi-width sizing!
Sweater | Shirt | Long Sleeve | T Shirt | Jeans | Dress | Rain Jacket | Pants | Backpack | Scarf | Sneakers | Boots
What to Wear in Milan in the Fall (September, October, November)
The autumn season cools down to mild temperatures that start at around 75°F (24°C) and decrease to around 52°F (11°C). This season can be quite unpredictable, and October and November are usually the rainiest months of the year, so you can expect a few sunny days as well as some gloomy and rainy days. Be sure to bring versatile layers, and always check the forecast before you head out for the day!
Unbound Merino Merino V‑Neck T‑Shirt | Sizes XS-XL
Tops for Fall
For day to day sightseeing, polished t-shirts will keep things easy and comfortable. Pack a mix of short sleeve and long sleeve t-shirts so you have options for both sunny and overcast days.
Unbound Merino’s v-neck tee will keep you comfortable in the transitional season of fall due to its breathable and temperature-regulating merino wool fabric. This travel-friendly tee can be worn repeatedly due to its anti-odor and sweat-wicking properties, and it’ll go with everything!
A crisp button down shirt is a fabulous staple that’ll make a casual outfit instantly sophisticated. Roll the sleeves up on a warmer day or layer a sweater over it on a chilly night!
Nadaam Lightweight Cashmere V-Neck Sweater | Sizes XXS-3X
It doesn’t hurt to pack a few pretty blouses for the evenings, as well! Locals love to get dolled up when they step out for the night, and you’ll see plenty of stylish locals and visitors putting on their A game for Fashion Week, so it’s a great time of year to wear something fun and bold!
Pretty sweaters are a great staple to pack as well. They’re cozy yet pretty, and work day to night! Readers love cashmere, merino wool, and alpaca for their durability, lightweight insulation, and elevated looks.
This Nadaam v-neck sweater is popular with readers for its high quality, 100% cashmere construction and flattering yet easygoing fit.
Kut from the Kloth Meg Fab Ab Ankle Wide Leg Jeans | Sizes 6-16
Bottoms for Fall
Jeans are the ultimate fall staple, so definitely pack a pair or two. Choose something that’s comfy to walk around in during the day and can be dressed up for dinner at night.
Cropped jeans are great for mild fall days, and they’re perfect for showing off your stylish sneakers or pretty ankle boots.
Wide leg jeans are especially in style right now! A TFG reader shares that wide leg jeans with a fitted top is one of the most popular and fashionable looks she saw on her trip to Milan, so consider packing a pair like these reader-fave Kut from the Kloth jeans. Flattering, stretchy, and elevated, this is a great go-to pair for your trip!
Sizes XS-3X Eddie Bauer Departure Ankle Pants: Amazon | Eddie Bauer
If you’re expecting some rainy sightseeing days, quick-drying pants will be an amazing packing list addition. Choose a pair that has a simple, trouser-like look, such as the Eddie Bauer Departure pants. Opting for a dark color will keep it more elevated and versatile!
Athleta Avenue Romper | Sizes XXS-XL
Dresses for Fall
Readers share that sundresses are still worn all around town in September, so if you’re traveling early in the season, then take advantage of the lingering summer weather and pack a dress or two!
As the weather cools, the Athleta Avenue romper is an ideal choice for effortless style and comfort. Made from soft, breathable fabric with a flattering fit, this romper offers the ease of a dress with the practicality of a one-piece. Whether you’re out shopping, running errands, or grabbing dinner, it’s easy to dress up or down with sneakers or flats, making it a versatile addition to your fall wardrobe.
Wool& Maggie Swing Dress | Sizes XS-3X
Merino wool dresses are perfect for sightseeing, with low-maintenance and highly functional fabric! They’re breathable and moisture-wicking, regulate your temperature, and don’t wrinkle. And while they’re casual, a simple style in a dark color can easily be dressed up.
One reader says that her Wool& dresses were her workhorse outfits when visiting Milan, noting that they handled the autumn temperature variations perfectly! The Maggie swing dress is a cute and easy option for fall sightseeing.
AllSaints Dalby Leather Biker Jacket | Sizes 0-12
Jackets for Fall
Early in the season, your outerwear can be a bit on the lighter side, especially if you have a sweater or long sleeve tee to layer with. Keep it edgy and stylish like the locals by options for a leather moto jacket, like this one from Allsaints, that has that classic biker look and is made with quality leather. Or, if you want to go more sophisticated and polished, a warm knit blazer will be warm and comfy yet classy.
With such unpredictable weather, you’ll also want to have a waterproof layer packed. A lightweight, packable rain jacket is ideal for the start of the season when it starts to get a bit rainier.
Helly Hansen Aden Hooded Waterproof Insulated Rain Jacket | Sizes XS-XL
Later on in the season, you’ll need something a tad warmer and definitely waterproof. An insulated rain jacket is a practical option, especially if it’s stylish! This Helly Hansen rain jacket has a clean, simple look, so styling it up will be effortless!
You could also opt for a waterproof puffer jacket for a minimalist yet cute look that goes with everything!
Taos Plim Soul Lux Sneaker: Amazon | Taos
Shoes for Fall
Leather shoes are popular in Italy, and they’re not only stylish but practical, too! TFGers highly recommend some chic leather sneakers in a dark color for sightseeing in Milan.
These reader-fave Taos Plim Soul Luxe sneakers are durable, easy to keep clean, and look a bit more elevated than a typical tennis shoe. They also feature plenty of cushioning, arch support, and shock absorption to keep your feet happy mile after mile.
Blondo Prestly Waterproof Leather Bootie
Boots are another must for fall, and locals will be bringing theirs out whether it’s hot or cold! Lean into the fashionably edgy style of the locals with styles like combat boots and moto boots.
You can never go wrong with a chunky sole or a sleek mid-calf silhouette, both of which are featured in these gorgeous Blondo Prestly booties! The flexible fit, waterproof leather, and treaded outsole add practicality to the stylish design.
Loafers or ballet flats are also great additions to pair with your dressy outfits! With the uneven roads and bustling walkways, it’s a good idea to skip the heels and opt for something that’ll keep you grounded and comfortable as you stroll.
Sweater 1 | Sweater 2 | Shirt | Turtleneck | Jeans | Dress | Coat | Pants | Backpack | Scarf | Boots 1 | Boots 2
What to Wear in Milan in Winter (December, January, February)
Winters in Milan are quite cold, with average temperatures in the 40s F (around 4-9°C), and evenings dipping to near-freezing temperatures. You won’t see too much rain or snow, but you’ll need to really bundle up to comfortably explore the city by foot! Despite the temperatures, the city will still be buzzing and the festive atmosphere is so much fun!
Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater | Sizes XS-3X
Tops for Winter
Pack a few plush sweaters made from cashmere or merino wool. Day to night, they’ll keep you cozy in frigid temps and they look quite chic, whether paired with trousers or leggings!
Always a go-to with readers, this Quince cashmere sweater is as classic as they come! It’s made from high quality, 100% Mongolian cashmere that’s lightweight, smooth, and insulating.
Wool& Aspen Sweatshirt | Sizes XS-3X
For active sightseeing days when you’ll be walking all around town, sweatshirts are a great choice. Choose a dark color and a stylish silhouette to keep things clean and elevated.
This plush sweatshirt from Wool& is full of travel-friendly features, but totally delivers on style, too!
Lastly, pack a few long sleeve tees for layering.
Kut from The Kloth Meg Fab Ab High Waist Wide Leg Jeans | Sizes 10-18:
Bottoms for Winter
Dark wash or black jeans are the easiest foundation for all of your winter outfits! Comfortable and versatile, they’ll work for countless activities, and the darker shade will look dressier.
Perfectly complementing the Milanese flair, these Kut from the Kloth wide leg jeans are a must for day and night outings in the city. Readers especially love the low-stretch denim that’ll complement your figure while keeping it comfy.
Sizes XS-3X Spanx PerfectFit Ponte Slim Straight Pant: Spanx | Nordstrom
Ponte pants are another wonderful winter essential that are warm and cozy yet look chic and elegant. These ponte pants from Spanx get rave reviews for their comfortable fit! Plus, their classic tailoring and understated vibe perfectly suits the style of Milan.
Leggings are another great pick for the winter. Go for faux leather leggings if you want to dress it up or add some edginess to your look. Or, keep it casual for walking-heavy days with some fleece-lined leggings.
Quince Australian Merino Wool Relaxed Turtleneck Sweater Dress | Sizes XS-XL
Dresses for Winter
Nightlife in Milan doesn’t stop with the cold weather! Bring along a warm sweater dress so that you can get dolled up without sacrificing warmth and comfort.
This relaxed turtleneck sweater dress from Quince is beyond chic, and the ribbed merino wool fabric is a dream. Wearers describe it as wonderfully soft and cozy, flattering, and well made!
HEATTECH Longsleeve Top | HEATTECH Leggings
Thermals for Winter
Days are cold and nights are even colder, so thermals will definitely come in handy on your winter trip to Milan. They’ll allow you to spend hours outside without the need for too many bulky layers.
Uniqlo’s Heattech thermal top and thermal bottoms have been a popular choice among readers. This set is lightweight and thin yet impressively warm, and it’ll hold its shape even after repeated wearing.
Columbia Heavenly Long Water Resistant Insulated Hooded Coat | Sizes XS-3X
Jackets for Winter
Bring an insulated winter coat for your trip! Because you’ll be wearing it for most of your sightseeing outings, choose something that’s cute and simple and that you’ll love seeing repeatedly in photos!
A long puffer jacket is a great choice that readers love for its slim, feminine, and minimalist look. It’ll pair well with anything and is easy to pack! This one from Columbia is a cute choice that has a feminine silhouette, insulated lining, and cozy details.
Quince Italian Wool Cocoon Coat | Sizes XS-XL
A wool coat is another stylish choice that you’ll see on the locals. While a tad heavier, wool coats are endlessly chic and super cozy. They can handle light rain and snow, and are a perfect addition to your dressier, nighttime looks!
Quince’s Italian wool coat is a stunner. Details like the hidden buttons and shawl collar give it a smart and refined look, and though it’s warm, it’s not too heavy.
Naturalizer Rena Knee High Riding Boot: Amazon | Nordstrom
Shoes for Winter
Leather boots are the shoe of choice for locals in Milan! Choose something supportive and comfortable for miles of walking.
Knee high boots are cute for winter, and they look great with dresses! They’ll add some extra warmth to your outfits, too, whether worn over leggings or under wide leg jeans.
Oozing elegance and class, these Naturalizer Rena riding boots are a great pick for the chilly winter. Responsive cushioning and an arch supporting insole just add to their charm!
Sorel Joan Now Chelsea Boot: Amazon | Nordstrom
You can never go wrong with some classic ankle boots, either. Choose a pretty leather pair that can be dressed up and down and go with every outfit!
It doesn’t rain or snow very often in the winter, but check the forecast to know if you’ll need some waterproof boots. You may want to pack a pair just in case you’re hit with an unexpected shower!
These Sorel Joan Now booties will add an edge to your ensemble thanks to its bold lug sole, not to mention the stability and traction to keep you grounded. Rain or shine, these waterproof booties will keep your feet dry, stable, and happy!
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage
What is the Best Luggage for Milan?
So the hard part’s out of the way; you’ve finally perfected your chic capsule wardrobe for Milan and now it’s time to get packing! Which luggage will work best for you?
There are various things to consider when choosing the best luggage for Milan, including a difference in carry on size, strict weight restrictions, mobility on the tough city streets, and long flights of stairs!
If you want a softside option, the ultimate reader favorite brand is Travelpro. Their Maxlite 5 soft luggage 21” has spinner wheels, organizational pockets on the front, and even has expandable capacity to pack a little bit more.
Read these tips on how to pick a suitcase and consider one of these top brands.
For a hardside option, readers have been loving the Away Carry On. It’s sleek and incredibly spacious, yet fits the size requirements for most international flights and domestic travel. Its smooth spinner wheels can handle the roughest and bumpiest of city streets, and the durable hard shell will keep your belongings safe and dry inside.
Keep in mind that most of Europe’s budget airlines have a carry-on bag allowance of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airline’s individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.
For a carry-on size bag, opt for a 21” suitcase or a backpack. A backpack is a safe option that’s also the perfect fit for those of us who prefer to travel hands-free. Learn how to choose the best travel backpack.
A travel tip for souvenir shopping in Milan is to bring a packable duffle bag to store all your goodies.
Readers swear by the Wandf packable duffle and say it’s so easy to transport and is useful for other things like hauling laundry, not just gifts or souvenirs.
Compass Rose Compression Packing Cubes
Depending on how many days or weeks you’re traveling, you may want to use luggage organizers such as packing cubes, which allow optimum use of the space in your luggage, while keeping everything organized and in place during your travels, and making the task of unpacking and repacking simple and stress-free.
Many readers use our Compass Rose Packing Cubes for packing, and they’re now offered in two sizes: slim and medium. The slim size cubes measure 13 x 5 x 2.8, and the medium size cubes measure 2.8 x 13 x 8.5. Both fit an international carry-on suitcase and can help you organize and compress clothing items.
The medium size is great for bulkier items or clothes you may want to fold instead of roll. Check out this video on how to organize using packing cubes, it’s incredibly easy!
Digital Luggage Scale for Travel
Since airlines are becoming increasingly strict about baggage allowances, use a luggage scale to always ensure you meet weight requirements. This will save you the headache of having to check in your carry on because you’ve gone over the limit, and pack it into a personal item so if you buy anything to take home, you’re not exceeding weight limits for your return.
And always remember to check with each airline you’re flying with to see the latest baggage policies as they can change.
If you want more resources on what type of suitcase to choose for Milan, start here:
- Best lightweight luggage under 5 lbs
- Best Hardside Luggage
- Best Softside Luggage
- Find the Best Carry On Suitcase to Suit Your Trip
- Best International Carry On Luggage
- Best Expandable Luggage That’s Lightweight
Target Open Story Signature 16″ Commuter Backpack
Best Purse or Day Bag for Milan
If you’ll be out and about all day and want to make sure you have all the essentials on you, opt for a backpack! It should be compact and comfy to carry yet nice and roomy for all of your things. In big cities, there’s a risk of pickpocketing in crowded or touristy areas, so you may want to choose an anti-theft backpack that no one can get into, especially because the zippers are out of sight.
The Open Story Signature Commuter Backpack is the ultimate combination of style and function. Designed with a sleek, modern aesthetic, it offers multiple organizational compartments to keep your essentials in check. Featuring a padded laptop sleeve, secure zippers, and water-resistant fabric, this backpack is perfect for commuting or travel. Whether you’re headed to the office or a weekend getaway, it’s the versatile, reliable companion you need!
The Travelon Classic backpack is another stylish and secure option with tons of anti-theft features as well as excellent organization, and durable fabric.
If you want to travel light, a crossbody purse is another great sightseeing bag for Milan. Crossbodies are secure and comfortable, and your belongings will always be within reach.
If you want something more elevated, the Lo & Sons Pearl shoulder bag is perfect and so versatile for carrying in the day or for your night’s adventures. It’s made of sleek leather and has great compartments.
Or if you want to aim for practical and cute, the Travelon Classic Messenger bag is a popular travel purse that offers excellent organization and versatility. This beauty will hold a day’s necessities, feel light and comfortable to carry, and has all the anti-theft features to keep everything secure.
Bandolier Emma Pebble Leather Crossbody
Alternatively, you could also opt for a sling bag or fanny pack, and if you want to have your phone ready to take pics, readers recommend crossbody phone purses, such as the Bandolier Emma crossbody phone purse. It’s sleek, can hold cards in the back, and is super practical to keep your phone secure while you snap photos.
Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet
Safety
Safety is a big concern whenever you travel, and in busy, touristy areas like Milan, pickpocketing can be a common occurrence. Taking a few safety precautions can help you feel less stressed during your travels.
How can I stay safe while traveling in Milan?
Be cautious about where you stash your cash so you don’t fall prey to muggings and pickpocketing. Make your clothing theft-proof and choose items with strong zippers.
Jeans are handy for this reason: you can put important items, like your wallet and phone, in your front pockets, where it’s very difficult for a wandering hand to snatch it.
Add items like the Secret Bra Pocket and Underwear with Pockets to your packing list.
And be mindful of purse snatchers! They either slash the bottom of your bag so the content falls out or they slash the strap.
Wear your purse strap across your body and the zipper towards the front. For extra security, check out the “theft-proof” bags featured in this post about crossbody purses.
These are articles with other suggested anti-theft products:
- Money Belts and Anti-theft Accessories
- Best Anti-theft Bags for Women
- 6 Tools to Protect Your From Pickpockets in Europe
Remember, the safest place for your passport is locked in your accommodation. Carry a photocopy or other ID when you’re sightseeing or are out at night.
Read these tips on how to keep your passport safe when you travel!
Suggested Anti-Theft Accessories for Milan
- Bra stash, neck pouch, or money belt with RFID protection
- Anti-theft Crossbody Bags
- Passport case
- TSA-approved luggage lock
- Clothing with hidden pockets (like underwear, tops, and scarves)
What are your tips on what to wear in Milan? Share in the comments!
For more ideas on how to pack for Europe, please read:
- 10 Step Packing Guide for Europe
- 10 Step Packing Guide for Italy
- What to Wear for a Trip to Italy
- The Best Travel Shoes for Italy
Suggested Travel Resources
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