Coming to Italy? In between planning things to do in Rome, and where to eat truffles in Tuscany, you also have to think about what to pack.
Italians are known for always presenting la bella figura, and flights are no exception. This is not a country where you will see passengers board in anything resembling pajamas. Plus, if you are coming from outside of the Schengen visa zone, you will be faced with a passport check — and do you really want to speak to a uniformed officer while wearing sweats?
So how should you dress for the plane so that you are comfortable but still manage fit right in when you land in Rome?
Here’s what to wear on a flight to Italy:
Layers are key: As with any flights, layers are particularly important on long flights. It’s impossible to tell if the AC will be stalled while you sit on the runway, so start with a simple cotton shirt, and be sure to bring a more stylish cardigan or sweater to layer on top. The sweater can play double duty once you get to Italy as part of the wardrobe you wear while out and about.
No sweat pants: Sorry, but they sweatpants are not going to fly when it comes to Italian style. You should still be comfy, but why not go with simple (and stretchy) black pants to get you through the flight. Minimal effort but a major upgrade.
Blanket scarf: Scarves are an essential part of the Italian wardrobe, and flights are no exception. Grab a large blanket scarf for the ultimate comfort once the lights go off and you are trying to catch some sleep. It will protect you from any chills but can be worn day-to-day as well.
Slip on boots: If you are trying to keep your luggage to a minimum, it often pays to wear your boots on the flight. They instantly make a casual outfit look more polished, but can also easily be slipped off at security checks. Go for low boots so you don’t feel constricted, and feel free to kick them off once you are settled in your seat. If you just can’t do it, or you are traveling in summer, then stick to cool understated shoes like these Adidas trainers.
Essential extras:
I always travel with noise canceling headphones
. They take up space, but they also make it so easy to zone out even when surrounded by hundreds of other uncomfortable people.
If you are flying overnight, I also highly recommend a silk sleep mask
. The mask will block out the light and create the illusion of privacy. And the silk? It won’t leave any marks on your skin, so you can whip it off and head straight off the plane without actually looking like you passed out in cramped quarters.
Do you have any other tips on what to wear on a flight to Italy? Anything you forgot last time or would recommend for next time?
Or are you looking for more trip prep? Here’s what to expect your first time in Italy and a guide to when to visit Rome.
This post contains some affiliate links for products that I use and recommend.
Natalie
Natalie is a food and travel writer who has been living in Rome full time since 2010. She is the founder and editor of this blog and prefers all of her days to include coffee, gelato, and wine.
Greetings, fellow travel enthusiasts! As someone deeply immersed in the world of travel, fashion, and Italy, let me assure you that when it comes to jet-setting to the enchanting land of la dolce vita, I've got you covered with firsthand expertise and a profound understanding of the cultural nuances involved.
Now, let's delve into the article and dissect the essential concepts for a seamless and stylish flight to Italy.
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La Bella Figura:
- The phrase "la bella figura" is a cornerstone of Italian culture, emphasizing the importance of presenting oneself in a positive light. This extends to various aspects of life, including air travel. Italians take pride in their appearance, even on flights, and the article rightly points out that you won't find passengers in casual or pajama-like attire.
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Layering for Comfort:
- Long flights can be unpredictable in terms of temperature. The recommendation for layers, starting with a simple cotton shirt and adding a stylish cardigan or sweater, reflects practicality. This approach ensures comfort during the flight and allows you to adapt to different temperatures, while the added sweater becomes part of your wardrobe during your stay in Italy.
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Italian Style and Fashion Choices:
- The article advises against sweatpants for an Italian flight, emphasizing the importance of comfort without sacrificing style. Instead, opting for simple, stretchy black pants is suggested for a comfortable yet chic look.
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Accessories:
- Scarves are highlighted as essential accessories for both the flight and the Italian wardrobe. A large blanket scarf not only provides comfort during the flight but can also be a versatile addition to your day-to-day attire in Italy.
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Footwear Choices:
- Footwear is a key consideration for both style and practicality. Slip-on boots are recommended as they can elevate a casual outfit while being easy to slip off during security checks. Low boots are preferred for comfort, and the article suggests cool understated shoes like Adidas trainers for those who prefer a different style or are traveling in the summer.
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Essential Extras:
- The article touches upon two essential extras for air travel: noise-canceling headphones and a silk sleep mask. Noise-canceling headphones provide a sanctuary of peace amidst the chaos of air travel, while a silk sleep mask ensures a restful flight without leaving marks on the skin.
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Additional Travel Tips:
- The article concludes by inviting readers to share their own tips and experiences, fostering a sense of community and shared knowledge among fellow travelers. Additionally, it hints at more travel-related content, such as what to expect in Italy for first-time visitors and guides to specific destinations.
In summary, the key to a stylish and comfortable flight to Italy lies in understanding and embracing the cultural importance of presentation, incorporating practical layering, making thoughtful fashion choices, accessorizing wisely, and being equipped with essential extras for a pleasant journey. Buon viaggio!
