Packing List
DO NOT OVERPACK
The key to going abroad and having a great time is careful preparation and packing, and especially attempting to “travel light.” The more you tote over to Italy with you, the more you will have to lug around with you when you’re there, and the less space you’ll have for gifts for your parents and friends (and self) when you return. Hence, our general advice is simply this: do not overpack. Leave your hair-dryers home. Just bring the basics, and you’ll be happier, and keep in mind that you are traveling: you are not supposed to have all the luxuries of home with you.
Here, then, are some of the things you might want to consider as you pack.
Luggage: We recommend 1 soft-shell expandable suitcase or duffel bag and 1 small backpack. Some of you might even want to be able to carry your luggage right onto the plane, though this is not necessary. But if you do, make sure the bag and backpack you choose is able to fit into an overhead compartment. Remember that airlines only allow one bag and one personal item as carry-on baggage, provided you follow guidelines concerning size and weight. Also remember that your checked-in luggage should not weigh more than 50 pounds per bag. You must observe the regulations concerning liquids and their containers, as below:
Dress: In general, casual dress is fine. Please realize, however, that on days when we are going to museums and, in particular, to the Vatican, shorts will not be adequate to gain admittance. When we are “out in the field,” walking around Rome, Capri, Pompeii, or in Sicily, however, both men and women will likely want to wear shorts, as it can be quite hot in Italy in June. Please also note that for entrance to the Vatican and other churches, women must have their shoulders completely covered and wear dresses cut below the knee. A good idea is to have with you a scarf or extra-long sleeve shirt.
Documents: It is strongly recommended that seminar participants keep ATM cards and cash in separate wallets. Passports must be kept with you at all times during travel, never stored in luggage. A passport wallet is recommended. Do not carry your passports to the sites but leave them at the hotel. Make sure that you collect all your documents when changing hotels.
The following lists are designed to help you pack:
Clothing:
- Several shirts and shorts; several pairs of socks and underwear
- 1 pair of comfortable sneakers (cross-trainers strongly recommended)
- 2 formal outfits (for dining)
- 1 pair comfortable dress shoes
- Hat with wide brim
Miscellaneous
- Sunscreen (30+ UPF)
- First Aid for possible blisters
- Bathing Suit
- Towel
- Water Bottle
- Backpack
- Pens and Pencils
- Field Notebook
- Camera
- Electrical power adapter for outlets / phone chargers / computers
Toiletries
- We recommend that you bring necessary toiletries, including shampoo, a small bottle of laundry soap such as small, travel size Tide/Woolite (or similar), and any medicine that you would normally need for a month.