Located 3.5 hours outside of Rome, the Amalfi Coast is a 31 mile stretch along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, in the Campania region. Made up of 13 pastel-colored fishing villages, lined with pebble beaches, lemon blossoms and rugged shoreline, this Mediterranean oasis has become one of the most popular destinations in the world. To help plan your Italian getaway, I’ve created the ultimate Packing List Amalfi Coast, based off my personal experience!
Packing List Amalfi Coast
Expandable Suitcase
The most important item on your Packing List Amalfi Coast – a suitcase! Whether you opt for a carry on or full-size, my recommendation is to make sure it expands. You’ll likely bring home a few souvenirs, whether it’s lemon treats from Positano or Carthusia perfume from Capri, so a little leeway with your luggage is optimal. I prefer American Tourister hard shell suitcases as they’re durable and easy to clean.
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes can significantly reduce the space in your suitcase and help organize your travel wardrobe. Plus they allow you to separate clean and dirty laundry.
Foldable Travel Duffle Bag
Quite possibly my favorite item on this list is the WANDF Foldable Travel Duffel Bag. It’s a super lightweight, compact bag that unfolds to a duffle – perfect for souvenirs! It’s waterproof, durable and can even slide over a luggage handle for easy transport.
Backpack
Another Packing List Amalfi Coast essential is a lightweight backpack. Personally, mine has to have space for a passport, wallet, camera, MacBook, snacks and water bottle. And I need it to be secure, which is why I always use Pacsafe Anti-Theft backpacks.
WiFi Smartspot
Even with a travel pass through your wireless provider, cell service can definitely be spotty in Italy, especially when you’re in transit. And I promise you’re going to want access to Google Maps. I highly recommend a Skyroam WiFi Smartspot:
- Blazing fast speeds in 130+ countries (Including Italy!)
- Connect up to 10 devices
- Pocked-sized
- Remote camera, 8MP, wide angle lens to capture, record, and live-stream
- Power bank, 4700 mAh, USB-C outlet for all day use and on-the-go charging
- Smart functions
- Use by the day, month or GB
- Control with the Solis WiFi App
One of the best travel purchases I have EVER made.
Power Adapter & Converter
The voltage, frequency and power sockets vary by country, and this includes Italy. Make sure to purchase a Universal Power Adapter and Converter kit to ensure you can use and charge your devices.
Portable Power Bank
Nothing drains quicker than your cell phone battery while traveling, so make sure you have one or two portable power banks that allow you to charge any usb-powered device on the go.
Fitbit
It’s a given when you travel that you’ll rack up those miles by foot, so it’s fun to map out your steps and actually see your progress. A Fitbit Versa Smart Watch tracks your activity and sleep, plays music, and has a ton of smartphone capabilities.
Bluetooth Speaker
Not a ‘must,’ but more of a ‘nice-to-have’ by the pool or on the beach.
iPhone Fan
These are really inexpensive, yet an efficient and convenient way to cool down anytime!
Bug Spray
The summer heat brings out the mosquitoes in Italy, especially if you venture away from the coast at all. I highly recommend a 100% Deet product – natural won’t cut it. I’m telling you from experience!
After Bite
Along with bug spray, it’s good to to bring along After Bite to help heal bug bites quick, in case you get a few. It really works wonders!
Dramamine Less Drowsy
The roads in Italy are windy and if you get the slightest bit carsick – you’ll want anti-nausea medicine. Works like a charm and won’t make you sleepy.
Hyland’s Upset Stomach
Another option for motion sickness or a sensitive stomach is Hyland’s Upset Stomach. Also works really well, and is all natural.
Blister Bandages
Hopefully you won’t need these – but nice to have, just in case.
Body Saver Cream
Plain and simple – this stuff prevents chafing on arms and legs. Enough said. :)
Tea Tree Oil
An amazing multi-purpose product! Tea tree oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, and can help reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne, while simultaneously fighting the bacteria that causes blemishes in the first place.
Boasting both antifungal and disinfectant properties, it’s long been used to help heal and soothe insect bites, burns, skin tags, bruises, wounds and a wide range of other skin ailments.
A perfect addition to your travel first-aid kit and/or nightly skin routine!
I recommend Eva Naturals.
Azo Cranberry
Another cause for prevention – if you are prone to UTI’s, this is helpful to have on hand.
SPF Chapstick
Easy to forget – so just adding it here as a reminder.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is key while traveling, so I recommend bringing your own water bottle. My favorite is the 40oz Hydro Flask with the straw lid. The TempShield insulation eliminates condensation and keeps water cold up to 24 hours.
If you prefer something on the lighter side, consider a Collapsible Silicone Water Bottle for day trips.
Electrolytes
Enhance your water intake and prevent dehydration with electrolytes. They’ll also help you bounce back after a night at Music on the Rocks in Positano.
Sleep Aid
There are a ton of sleep aid products on the market, but we’ve found NuTraditions Hello Dreams to be the most effective way to fall asleep naturally, either on the plane or when you arrive at your destination. They’re made with non-addicting melatonin and Calm Down™, a proprietary blend of herbs, which gently quiet your mind and body for restorative rest. The packaging is super compact, as well, making it perfect for travel.
Use code GIRLFRIEND10 for 10% off at NuTraditions!
Whether you think you need them or not, it’s a ‘nice to have’ item, especially when your Airbnb is located right below a music studio (speaking from experience)!
Ear Plugs
In addition to a sleep aid, ear plugs are an easy addition to your suitcase that come in handy when necessary!
Travel Pill Box
A travel pill box makes it easy to plan out your medicine and vitamins for a week long vacay. Don’t forget a pain reliever and allergy medicine – as different climates can alter your system responses.
Hand Sanitizer
You can never have enough hand sanitizer while traveling. I love Dr. Bronner’s Organic Lavender Hand Sanitizer Spray because it’s convenient and safe to use on sensitive skin.
Babyganics Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitizing Wipes are also a family favorite.
Compressed Dry-To-Wet Cloth
I have found there to be more hand towels and bath towels than wash cloths in Italy…also if you wear heavy makeup like I do – it’s nice to have your own washcloth. The one I recommend over anything else is DewBurst. They come in packs of 10 in a compact biodegradable tube for only $3.99, and are reusable and environmentally safe. They’re also hypoallergenic, preservative free, fragrance free and super convenient.
Microfiber Beach Towel
Bath towels are often provided at hotels, Airbnb’s and agriturismos, but it’s nice to have an extra one for the beach, pool or hot springs.
Toiletries
If you’re staying at an Airbnb or villa in Italy, it’s safe to assume basic toiletries are not included – such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, etc. Amazon has a variety of kits under $20 that have all the necessities and take up very little space in your suitcase.
Protein Powder
I tend to lose sight of my protein intake while traveling, so single-serving protein packets ensure I at least get 20 grams first thing in the morning. It helps balance out the starch-heavy Italia diet, while helping maintain some sort of nutritional consistency.
Don’t forget a BlenderBottle – they’re less than $10 on Amazon.
Green Powder
The best way to maintain energy, reduce stress and aid in digestion while traveling is by consuming an organic green juice every morning. Hands down, the best on the market is Organifi Green Juice. I love the brand so much I even asked for a promo code specifically for this post – just enter OBSESSED at checkout to receive 15% of your first purchase.
Fiber
Another non-negotiable when traveling is fiber. I use 2-3 Benefiber single serve powder sticks per day to avoid irregularity.
Detox Tea
To round out my digestion cocktail, detox tea can help move things along if necessary, as well. Between the green powder and fiber, adding one more thing may seem excessive, but trust me – travel can be intense on your intestinal track, especially when adapting to a new cuisine. It’s better to bring a box along, than sit in discomfort.
Protein Bars
Dining in Italy is always an experience, but if you really just need a quick snack – it’s nice to have a box of protein bars in your suitcase to fall back on. Perfect for a day at the beach or a road trip along the Amalfi Coast.
Lightweight Sneakers
Many of the towns on the Amalfi Coast are built into the Southern Italian cliffs, which means there are hundreds of steps from the beach to the road, your access point for driving, public or private transportation. With that said, be prepared to hike.
On the plus side, the steps are well-maintained and wind through beautiful restaurants, shops and colorful homes with a backdrop of incredible views, adding to la dolce vita experience.
Which leads me to this packing list essential – don’t pack just any pair of shoes – you’ll need lightweight, comfortable low-key sneakers that go with a variety of outfits and can handle a stroll along the Path of The Gods (an amazing scenic footpath).
Personally, I recommend Allbirds as a neutral and Brooks Running if you prefer a fitness-style.
Flip Flops or Sandals
Spending the day at the beach? Pack a pair of flip flops or flat sandals to wear between the lounge chair and the water…because the sand heats up and the pebbles can be tricky on soft feet! It’s also nice to slip something on while grabbing a Limoncello Spritz at a beachside cafe.
Swimsuit
If you’re planning a trip to Italy, specifically the Amalfi Coast, between May and September, you’ll enjoy warm weather and comfortable sea temperatures for a dip in the Mediterranean! With highs between 85-92 degrees in June, July and August, it’s a guarantee you’ll need a swimsuit.
My travel tip is to add it to all of your packing lists, regardless of the season (just in case).
Sunglasses
Do not forget to pack sunglasses! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve boarded a plane only to realize I left my only pair in the car. First of all, buy one or two more (trust me on this), then add them to your carry on or suitcase before you even leave the house. That beautiful Amalfi Coast sunshine will require some shades.
I like the sustainable fashion brand, Kraywoods, because they plant a tree with every eyewear purchase. Use my code PORTIA15 to save 15% off any of their bamboo sunglasses or wood sunglasses!
Scarf
If you plan on visiting any churches while in Italy, especially St. Peter’s Basilica or The Vatican, there is a strict rule against showing knees or shoulders. Since the summer months can really heat up, I recommend packing a light scarf that you can drape over your shoulders when visiting any of the churches in Rome, Naples or on the Amalfi Coast.
You can also use a scarf as a hair accessory or swimsuit cover-up!
Crossbody Purse
Whether you’re strolling through the Minori Market or wine tasting in Ravello, it’s best to keep your personal belongings safe and convenient in a crossbody purse. Opt for a lightweight style with a zipper to keep everything secure.
Linen and Cotton Clothes
From early spring to late fall it’s imperative linen and/or cotton clothes make your Packing List Amalfi Coast. They’re lightweight, breathable, easy to wash and comfortable. My travel style includes a variety of jumpers, maxi dresses, skirts and wide leg pants. You can forego the polyester on this trip.
Hand Held Fabric Steamer
This may not be a ‘must’ on everyone’s packing list, but I never travel without a hand held fabric steamer. It’s a super quick way to refresh your clothes and extend the wear. You better believe I brought it to the Amalfi Coast last year!
Water Resistant Coat
It’s not likely you’ll see much rain in the summer on the Amalfi Coast, however, it’s wise to pack a lightweight water resistant coat to be on the safe side. It can really make or break or afternoon if a shower rolls in, plus there’s several compact varieties so it won’t take up much space.
Travel Documents
First and foremost, make copies of all of your travel documents. And then make sure you bring both the originals – including passport.
Credit Cards
I always call my bank, before I leave, to provide upcoming travel dates, preventing disruptions or transaction issues. Also, I recommend finding out if your bank has domestic or international partners in Italy.
I typically carry minimal cash and mainly only use it for tips so credit cards are my currency. I recommend withdrawing $300 Euro at the airport when you arrive in Italy to get the best exchange rate and spend it wisely!
What To Leave At Home
I’ll be the first to tell you – I struggle with packing light. I want to bring all the things…just in case. But it’s just not reasonable…and can land you hefty baggage fees. Which is why I’m sharing this Packing List Amalfi Coast – so you can learn from my experiences and mistakes. There’s a lot of things you may think you need…but in reality you should leave at home.
High Heels
Regardless of what you see on Instagram, the Amalfi Coast is not the place to wear high heels. Between hundreds of steps and cobblestone streets, you will 100% regret them. Opt for a pretty sandal or lightweight sneaker instead.
Handbag
As I mentioned above, for daytime strolling, I recommend a compact crossbody purse. Carrying a handbag has a heightened risk of theft and adds unnecessary bulk to your suitcase.
Expensive Accessories
I once heard a travel expert mention some men wear Rolex watches while traveling so they could use it as a form of currency if necessary. Honestly, I would feel more of a target than a negotiator if I wore a luxury watch or bracelet. My advice is to leave anything of high value at home. I like to lean on the “better safe than sorry” philosophy.
I hope this Packing List Amalfi Coast has helped you plan your upcoming trip to Italy…or inspires you to book one!
Want to Travel to the Amalfi Coast with me?
I’ve partnered with Bio-Monte Tours of Italy for 3 signature tours in 2019 and more to come in 2020! We currently have a few select spots available for the Amalfi Coast Dream Tour August 10-17. Send me an email if you’d like further details – info@obsessedbyportia.com!
Craving more? Make sure to also check out my Carry On Essentials For Long Flights Post! And as always, feel free to comment on my latest Instagram post if you have any questions!
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Happy Travels!
XoXo Portia