Packing for Italy

  • Lake Como Weather 

    Lake Como in early October, typically experiences mild, but potentially cool, weather with average highs 62°F and average lows around 53°F. Expect some days to be overcast, with a possibility of light rain, but also some days with clear skies and pleasant sunshine. 

    Portofino Weather

    Portofino in early October typically experiences pleasant weather with a moderate UV index with average highs around 66°F and lows around 57°F. 

    Milan Weather

    Milan in early October typically experiences mild and cool weather with average highs around 66°F and lows of 50°.

  • Layers, layers, layers! The temps will be cool but hopefully sunny so light jackets and sweaters will be your friend. There is always the possibility of rain in Como and Milan, less so in Portofino, so it’s definitely worth packing a light rain jacket with a hood. I am guessing the coolest day will be when we are on the water in Lake Como. Remember that the temperatures I noted are averages so it may be in the 70’s in Portofino or Milan. 

    We are staying in very nice hotels in Lake Como & Portofino so some nights dinner will be dressy.  Cities tend to be less casual but not sure Milan follows this typical rule of thumb, being the fashion capital of the world! LOL! 

    This is a suggested packing list, but of course first and foremost pack for comfort and ease. 

    Tops:

    • Short/Long Sleeve Shirts

    • Sweaters or Cardigans

    • Dressier Tops (evenings out)

    Bottoms:

    • Jeans or Trousers (During the day white works all year)

    • Skirts

    • Dresses

    Outerwear:

    • Vest

    • Light Jacket

    • Blazer

    • Cashmere Wrap

    • Hooded Raincoat or Trench Coat

    Footwear:

    • Flats or Loafers

    • Tennis Shoes 

    • Ankle Boots (if desired)

    Accessories:

    • Belt

    • Bag

    • Scarf

    • Sunglasses

    • Hat 

    • Bathing Suit

    • Hairdryers will be provided by the hotels. However, if you want to bring a hair tool  it will need to be dual voltage with a European plug. I recommend this one.

    • If your personal items are in your carry-on luggage, they need to be in 3.4oz/100ml containers inside a 1-quart size clear bag. Exemptions include liquid medications. Read here for more details.

    • Remember to bring enough prescription medications and/or vitamins to last for the entirety of your trip. I like this color-coded pill box.

    • Pack ear plugs, an eye mask, and a neck pillow in your carry-on for the plane. I also recommend a cozy pair of socks if you aren’t wearing any already to keep your feet warm and comfortable.

    • Melatonin or Good Day sleep chocolates can be helpful for sleeping on the plane and after arrival.

    • Jet Zone can help mitigate the effects of jet lag.

    • Good Day energy chocolates and peppermint essential oil can help you stay awake after you land.