Helpful Hints of International Travel to Italy

A few tips, tricks, and tidbits of helpful information I learned before, during, and after my first International trip.

Passport

You can set up a passport appointment at most post offices. They require appointments in advance. You will need to have your original birth certificate and driver's license, and you will need to fill out an application. Make sure you read all instructions on the website before going to your scheduled appointment.

Transportation

Make sure you validate your train tickets before each ride. It is beneficial to book your train and bus rides in advance to save time and money. We used the Trenitalia app to do so.

Apply for an International Driving Permit before you leave for your trip if you plan to drive a car or operate any type of vehicle/transportation. This is surprisingly a very easy process. My husband did research online and found that you can get an IDP same day at AAA for only $20. He was able to go in and be seen quickly and easily. Just make sure you have proper identification and a 2x2 photo of yourself for the book.

Power

I learned through a friend before our trip that Italy does not have the same outlets that we have in the United States. In order to charge our phones, use hair tools, computer, etc. we had to bring along a few converters. I also discovered that converters are chosen over adapters because they help preserve the life of the equipment and don't use as much power as adapters.

Language

This one is a given but know at least some basics of the country’s language. It is also helpful to have Google Translate downloaded onto your phone when you need to speak the language in more detail.

Plane

Things I suggest packing for a long plane ride. Chapstick, water bottle, a good book/books, neck pillow, snacks.

Our airline provided us with a lot of items: blanket, pillow, eye mask, lip balm, and headphones. We also were fed twice and the meals were very good for plane food. We were surprised.

Clothing

Something that saved me on this trip was having comfortable walking shoes. They are a necessity! Before our trip Andrew and I purchased ourselves Hoka Clifton 9 sneakers. They're more than I would typically spend on shoes, but I highly suggest investing in a good walking shoe. I did not have any issues with achy feet when wearing them and we walked A LOT! My feet were very grateful.

Research the weather before your visit and pack accordingly. I brought a rain jacket just in case, and on the last day of our trip it was needed.

If you plan to visit any basilicas/churches be mindful of the clothing you choose to wear. You should have shoulders and knees covered to show respect. I packed a jacket when I wore a sleeveless dress for this reason.

Customs

My husband Andrew did research into what types of items we were allowed to bring home to the States from Italy. There are specific items a person cannot bring into the United States. When shopping make sure you aren't purchasing something you will not be able to bring on the plane, unless you plan to mail it home.

Dining

Eating times in Italy are not the exact same as the United States. Expect restaurants to open later and to be closed during their siesta hours.

If you want to avoid "tourist traps" ask the Italians/locals. They will tell you where to get the best and most authentic Italian food. They gave us a gelato tip. The more colorful, the less authentic it is.

Hope these few tips help in some way, and safe travels!

XOXO, Kassidi