Passport

It's our understanding that travel may be denied if your passport expires within 6 months of your travel dates. It's strongly encouraged to check your passport expiration dates, and apply for passport renewals as needed. It's always a good idea to keep a paper copy of your passport with you, in case your passport is lost for any reason.

Cell Phones

We'd recommend calling your phone carrier to inquire about international phone plans prior to your trip.

Credit Cards

It's advisable to call your credit card company and let them know about your travel plans to prevent denied charges. You may also want to inquire about foreign currency transaction fees associated with using your card abroad.

Currency

The currency of Italy is the Euro. It's recommended to work with your local bank branch to order local currency for your trip.

Luggage

Many travelers purchase Apple Airtags, and include one of them in each of their checked bags. This allows travelers to monitor the location of their bags as needed. In the worst-case scenario where baggage is lost, this may help the airlines locate the luggage sooner.

Taking pictures of luggage, as well as the items included can also help the airlines locate baggage more quickly, and will also substantiate the cost of lost items if needed.

USPS

Depending on the duration of your travel, you may want to consider holding your mail with USPS. You can do this directly on the USPS website.

Tipping

We've read that tipping in Italy is unlike the US. A good rule of thumb is leaving 1-2 euros for a smaller meal and rounding up to 10% of the bill total for a larger meal. More than that is considered far too generous. When tipping, cash is recommended.

Weather

The weather in Italy in July is hot - it can be up to 90 degrees. Please take this into account when packing for your trip - sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and bathing suits, are all recommended.

Key Items to Pack

- Passport

- Local Currency in multiple denominations

- Electrical Converter - You will need more than one! Italy runs on 220v-230v; US runs on 120v

- Medical Insurance Cards

- Comfortable walking shoes

- Sunscreen

International Driving Permit

It's highly recommended to have an international driving permit if you are planning to drive in Italy. More information can be found at AAA, at the following link: aaa.com/vacation/idpf.html