What to Pack: From Paris to Rome

Here’s a thoughtful, realistic packing list designed for a 3-week September trip through Paris, Barcelona, the Dolomites, Florence, and Rome—balancing style, comfort, changing climates, and lots of walking. This is written with carry-on–friendly intentions but works either way.

Clothing (Mix & Match Focus)

Tops

  • 5–7 lightweight tops (mix of:

    • breathable tees

    • elevated tanks

    • blouses for evenings)

  • 1–2 long-sleeve tops (great for layering & churches)

  • 1 lightweight sweater or merino layer

Bottoms

  • 2–3 pairs of comfortable pants (linen, trousers, or travel fabric)

  • 1 pair of jeans

  • 1–2 skirts or dresses (easy one-and-done outfits)

Layers & Outerwear

  • Lightweight jacket or trench (Paris + evenings)

  • Packable rain jacket or shell (especially for the Dolomites)

  • Optional: thin puffer or fleece (Dolomites mornings)

Active / Dolomites Specific

  • 2–3 moisture-wicking tops

  • 1–2 hiking pants or leggings

  • Sleepwear that can double as lounge wear

Undergarments

  • 7–10 underwear (or plan laundry)

  • 2–3 bras

  • 1 sports bra

  • Socks:

    • 3–4 athletic/hiking

    • 3–4 everyday

Shoes (Keep This Tight)

  • Stylish walking sneakers (your daily workhorse)

  • Dressier sandal or flat (Barcelona / Italy evenings)

  • Hiking shoes or trail sneakers (Dolomites)

  • Optional: lightweight slip-ons or ballet flats

Rule of thumb: max 3 pairs total

Accessories

  • Lightweight scarf (church coverage + warmth)

  • Sunglasses

  • Belt

  • Compact umbrella

  • Hat (sun protection in Spain & Italy)

  • Crossbody bag (anti-theft preferred)

  • Small backpack or daypack (hikes + sightseeing)

Toiletries & Health

  • Travel-size toiletries (refillable)

  • Sunscreen (face + body)

  • After-sun or moisturizer

  • Deodorant

  • Razor

  • Personal medications

  • Basic first-aid kit (blister care is key!)

  • Hand sanitizer & wipes

Tech & Travel Essentials

  • Phone + charging cable

  • Portable battery pack

  • Universal power adapter (EU)

  • Headphones / earbuds

  • Copies of passport & travel documents (digital + paper)

  • Travel insurance info

  • Credit card with no foreign fees + small amount of cash

Laundry & Organization

  • Packing cubes

  • Laundry detergent sheets or travel soap

  • Foldable laundry bag

  • Sink stopper (optional but useful)

Nice-to-Have Extras

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Lightweight tote (markets, beach, shopping)

  • Travel journal or book

  • Compression socks (flight days)

  • Small steamer spray or wrinkle release

Weather Snapshot (September)

  • Paris: mild, occasional rain, cooler evenings

  • Barcelona: warm & sunny

  • Dolomites: cool mornings, variable weather

  • Florence & Rome: warm days, pleasant nights

Final Packing Tip

Aim for a neutral base palette (black, white, beige, navy) and add 1–2 accent colors—you’ll look polished everywhere from Paris cafés to Tuscan piazzas without overpacking.