Your Go-To Italy Study Abroad Packing List

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January in Rome

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College Study Abroad

Interested in studying abroad in Italy? Great choice! Spending time living and learning in Rome, Italy’s historic capital, is guaranteed to offer an exciting adventure filled with delicious food, stunning architecture, and rich cultural experiences.  

But before you start packing your bags, think through all the things you’ll need while abroad. And note: Italy's climate can vary greatly depending on where you are, so pack for all types of weather. One weekend you may be on the balmy Mediterranean Sea, and the next you’re off to see the snowy Alps. 

To refine your list of suitcase essentials, we've put together a comprehensive Italy study abroad packing list that covers all the seasons.  

CHECK OUT OUR ULTIMATE STUDY ABROAD PACKING LIST

packing list study abroad

What to Pack for the Winter in Italy 

Ready for your January in Rome? If you’ll be studying abroad in Italy during wintertime, you should pack clothes that are warm and comfortable. The weather in Rome this time of year can vary, but temperatures are generally cooler than in the summer, with average highs in the mid-50s and lows in the low-40s Fahrenheit.  

While Rome doesn't get as cold as some other European cities, it can be chilly, and it's not uncommon for temperatures to dip below freezing at night. It's also important to keep in mind that, like many European cities, Rome can be damp and rainy during the winter. Since the weather in Italy can fluctuate, we recommend packing a mix of lightweight and heavy clothing that can be layered. This will allow you to adjust to the changing weather conditions. 

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. 
studying in italy during the winter


LEARN MORE ABOUT JANUARY IN ROME

What to Pack for the Spring in Italy 

If it’s Rome in spring you’re packing for, bring clothes that are appropriate for the weather and cultural norms of the city. In general, the weather in Rome during the spring is mild, with average temperatures ranging from the low 50s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit.  

It's also important to keep in mind that, like many European cities, Rome has a more modest dress code than some parts of the U.S. To stay comfortable and respectful of local customs, you should pack a mix of lightweight, breathable clothing as well as a few warmer layers. 

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! 
students at the colosseum in italy on an excursion

LEARN MORE ABOUT SPRING IN ROME

What to Pack for the Summer in Italy 

What about summer in Rome? You’ll love it, so let’s start packing! First, bring clothes that are appropriate for the city’s hot and sunny weather. In general, summer in Rome is warm to hot, with average temperatures ranging from the low 70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit.  

Pack light, breathable clothing in natural fabrics like cotton and linen. These fabrics will help keep you cool and comfortable in the hot Italian sun.  

In summer, the clothes to bring to Italy include

  • 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.  
summer in rome study abroad program

LEARN MORE ABOUT SUMMER IN ROME

What to Pack for the Fall in Italy 

Your fall study abroad in Rome is a plane trip away – time to pack! You’ll want to bring clothes appropriate for Rome’s cooler fall temperatures. Similar to the spring season, layers are a smart idea. So, pack a mix of lightweight and heavier clothing that will allow you to adjust to changing weather conditions. 

In fall, the clothes to bring to Italy include

  • 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. 

Pack for Rome Study Abroad  

This packing list for study abroad in Italy has us dreaming of Rome. You, too? Explore our Rome study abroad programs to learn about CIEE’s many great study abroad and global internship opportunities.