Travel to the Amalfi Coast: What to pack

Travel to the Amalfi Coast: What to pack

Traveling to a new destination and trying to pack sensibly for the journey can be daunting. What to bring? What to leave behind? Beyond the obvious passport and camera, here are a few items that will serve you well when vacationing on the Amalfi Coast.

  • Comfortable walking shoes

This is a must. Considering that this coastline is naturally rugged and that climbing stairs and hills are a way of life (especially in Positano), a smart pair of walking shoes will save your tired feet. Good walking shoes also are necessary if you want to hike the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods).

  • Aqua socks or flip flops

Although extremely beautiful, the Amalfi Coast shoreline is comprised of pebble — not sandy — beaches. As such, a pair of aqua socks or flip flops to wear on the beaches will come in handy. Just walking from your lounge chair to the water’s edge can be painful on bare feet. Take an old pair that you can leave behind to create more room in your suitcase for the trip home.

  • Light scarf or wrap

Especially during the spring and early fall months, the evenings can be cool and windy. Having a light scarf to tie around your neck or drape over your shoulders is a great way to stay warm and fashionable at the same time! That same scarf or wrap will also come in handy on a windy boat outing and as a bathing suit cover-up. And remember that, even in the hottest weather, when touring churches visitors should be modestly dressed, with covered knees and shoulders. A wrap can help you adhere to the rules.

  • Travel adapter for electronic devices

To keep your devices charged and use any electronics such as a travel-sized blowdryer when traveling abroad, having a universal adapter is a must (voltage and outlets work a little differently). Electricity in Italy conforms to the European standard of 220V to 230V (compared to 110V in the U.S.). You’ll need an adapter with two or three round pins to fit the plug into a different shaped outlet, and a voltage converter so you don’t fry your electronics. Look for travel adapters that come in small cases for ease of tucking into a backpack or carry-on.

  • Extra smartphone battery pack

With all the picture taking and selfies you’ll be snapping, you’ll probably see your phone battery drain quickly. It’s a good idea to carry some extra power for your cell phone so that you’re never without a phone in the event of an emergency. Also double-check with your wireless service provider to be sure your phone plan will cover you in Italy.

  • Sunglasses

Bringing a good quality protective pair of sunglasses is highly recommended. You will find yourself using them for everything on land and water – and you’ll also look Italian chic!

  • Bathing suit and cover-up

It may seem obvious to list this, but if you forget your bathing suit, it may be difficult to find a replacement. Local shops don’t always carry a large variety of sizes or styles to choose from. Also, include a simple cover-up (or use your wrap!) to walk around in after leaving the beach area. It’s not customary to parade around shirtless or in a bikini unless you’re on the beach or at the pool.

  • Linen clothing item

Although you can (and should!) purchase some gorgeous linen pieces on the Amalfi Coast, it’s good to pack at least one item that will help keep you cool during the hot summer months. Linen is breathable, versatile and can be dressed up or down.

  • A few dressy accessories

Vacationing on the Amalfi Coast almost always involves a chic aperitivo or dining out at a fabulous restaurant. Remember to pack a few pieces that will help dress up an outfit: an elegant pair of earrings, a lightweight jacket or a small designer clutch.

  • Kindle or other digital reader

While lazing by the pool or soaking up some sun on the beach, a Kindle or other digital reader is a great way to travel with your favorite books or magazines. Why not download some interesting books on Pompeii and Herculaneum or the ruins at Paestum? Without all the bulk in your carryon, you’ll have more room for souvenirs!

  • Collapsible lightweight bag

Choose a versatile, lightweight bag that can be folded to fit into your carry-on. You’ll use it for your day excursions and beach trips to carry your camera, scarf, maps and water bottle. Look for something that can be worn cross-body for comfort.

Happy packing! We hope to see you soon!

Carrington Italia creates tailor-made Italian experiences through its network of luxury villas on the renowned Amalfi Coast of Italy. With a local presence in Positano, Carrington Italia’s bilingual team sets a new standard of excellence for custom holidays. To learn more about Carrington Italia, please visit www.CarringtonItalia.com, call (844) 550-5805 or email info@carringtonitalia.com.