Traveling to Italy is a dream come true for many, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine. As you do so, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself drawn to authentic souvenirs that capture the essence of your Italian adventure.
Packing your treasures becomes essential—not just to be sure you have enough space for those fabulous purchases, but also to protect them during your journey home. In this post, I’ll share some tips for efficiently packing and bringing home those special Items, so your memories last long after your Italy trip ends.
Pack light before your trip to Italy
I always pack old clothes (like t-shirts that are layered under shirts or sweaters) and older shoes to donate or leave behind. This way, at the end of my trip I have space in my luggage for souvenirs.
Pack fragile items well
Wrap fragile items in your clothing or a sturdy box. If I have purchased a fragile item I always pack it in my personal item that I carry on the plane - so I have eyes on it at all times.
Check your airline's policy
Most airlines limit checked baggage to 50 pounds per bag. Be aware of how much extra you have to pay if you go over the limit. Compare this fee with the price for shipping your purchase home.
Declare items to Customs
You'll need to fill out a US Customs & Border Control form when you arrive back in the US to declare any items you purchased overseas-most notably high-value purchases.
Be aware of prohibited items
Some items are prohibited from being brought into the US, such as ivory, absinthe, and tortoise shell products. Restricted items include certain types of meats and cheeses.
Here's a blog post about Food Items You Can and Cannot Bring Back from Italy.
Bring a packable bag
If you're traveling with a carry-on, pack another bag inside that. When you return home you can put your souvenirs in the packable carry-on and check the other carry on.
Consider shipping
If you're buying expensive or breakable items, you can ship them home instead of risking breaking them. My clients who book a wine-tasting experience with me inevitably purchase wine and olive oil that the owner can ship back to the United States for them.
See my blog for The Pros and Cons of Shipping your Purchased Items
As you prepare for your journey to Italy, remember that the art of packing is just as important as the experiences you’ve gathered along the way. With a little planning and creativity, you can bring home not just souvenirs, but pieces of the Italian spirit that will remind you of your travels for years to come.
Whether you choose to pack light, bring an extra bag to check, or ship items home, your approach to packing will help you feel confident that your special finds arrive safely.
So, embrace the adventure of collecting memories and let each souvenir tell the story of your unforgettable Italian escapade!
Safe travels, and happy packing!
The Way To Italy has been providing fee-based, custom travel planning for travelers to Italy for 23 years. I handcraft once-in-a-lifetime Italy experiences down to the last detail.
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