Essential Packing and Preparation Tips for a Fabulous Roman Holiday

If you’re planning a summer week in Rome, you’re in for an unforgettable experience filled with rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. However, preparing for a trip to Rome in the summer requires careful planning due to the city’s extreme heat and bustling crowds. Here’s how to prepare and what to pack to make the most of your Roman holiday.

We just came back from our trip to Italy, where we visited Rome, Florence, the Cinque Terre, and a small beach town south of Rome for a day at the beach. And, while the historical buildings, the art, the food, and the stunning blue ocean are incredible, the heat was difficult to deal with.

Rome’s summer temperatures can soar well into the high 90s F (35°C+), so it’s crucial to pack accordingly. Synthetic fabrics are a no-go; instead, opt for natural materials like cotton and linen that breathe and keep you cool.

Essential Clothing Items:

• Lightweight Tops: Pack sleeveless or short-sleeve tops made from breathable fabrics. Bring enough for each day, as you’ll likely need a fresh outfit daily due to the heat.
• Shorts and Skirts: Choose 5-6 pairs of shorts (around 6 inches long) and a couple of skirts or dresses. A below-the-knee dress with short sleeves is perfect for visiting religious sites like the Vatican.
• Evening Wear: Lightweight dresses or mix-and-match outfits are ideal for dinners or evening strolls. The cooler evening temperatures allow for reusing these outfits.
• Shoes: Rome is known for its cobblestone streets and many stairs. Comfortable footwear is a must. Bring supportive tennis shoes (like the ON Cloud 9 in white) and flats (such as the Minnie travel flats by Tory Burch). Heels are not recommended due to the uneven streets.

What to Wear In the Italian Summer

The Roman sun can be relentless, so bringing along some heat-busting gadgets can make a big difference.

Here are the gadgets we used every single day to help us enjoy our trip and break the heat.

• Cooling Towels: These are lifesavers! They lower your body temperature significantly, are easy to carry, and make all the difference.
• Portable Fans: While they add a bit of bulk, portable fans are worth it, especially if you’re traveling with kids who will appreciate the extra comfort.
• Umbrella: Use it as a sunshade while walking or waiting in line.
• Scarf: A versatile accessory, a scarf can protect you from the sun or cover you when visiting religious sites.
• Old-Style Fans: These are lightweight and easy to carry, offering instant relief from the heat.

Staying Cool In the Italian Summer

Rome is a walkable city, but the ancient streets can be challenging. The city’s cobblestones, narrow sidewalks, and stairs (remember, Rome is built on seven hills) mean you should be prepared for physical exertion.

• Walking: Despite the heat and crowds, walking is often the best way to explore Rome. However, be prepared for the uneven terrain by wearing comfortable shoes and avoid overexerting yourself.
• Public Transport and Taxis: Traffic in Rome can be chaotic, so don’t always rely on taxis or Uber to get around quickly -it was always faster for us to walk than taking the cab. Consider public transport options like buses and the metro for longer distances.

Rome is a popular summer destination, which means it will be crowded. To make your trip smoother, plan and reserve as much as possible in advance.

• Skip-the-Line Tickets: Invest in skip-the-line tickets for major attractions to avoid standing in long lines under the sun.
• Timing Your Activities: The heat is most intense between 10 AM and 6 PM, so plan your outdoor activities for the very early morning (with empty streets and fresh air!) or the late evening. During the hottest hours, opt for indoor activities, take a leisurely lunch break in an air-conditioned restaurant or back at the hotel.

Where you stay can significantly impact your comfort during a summer trip to Rome.

• Location: This was my first time planning a family vacation in Italy and I wasn’t familiar with the landscape. Our Airbnb was amazing and in a great area but we had to walk uphill to get home after a long day. If you are traveling with kids or seniors, choose accommodations in a flat area of town to avoid tiring uphill walks at the end of the day. Staying near popular attractions might mean more noise, so consider this when booking. In Florence, we stayed at this great apartment at a perfect spot.
• Air Conditioning: Ensure your hotel or Airbnb has air conditioning. While many places offer AC, it might not be as cool as you’re used to, so close your windows and blinds before heading out for the day to keep the heat out.

Italian food is a highlight of any trip to Rome, but the summer heat may have you craving lighter meals.

• Light Meals: For lunch, opt for salads, fresh fruits, cheeses, and cold-cut platters. Save pasta dishes for dinner when it’s cooler.
• Breakfast: Italians typically have a sweet breakfast, so if you prefer savory options, look for paninis or visit a nearby cafe that offers more variety.
• Picky Eaters: While our sons are young adults, I remember our days of having picky eaters very well. Every restaurant offered a simple pasta dish option.
• Tipping: Tipping in Rome is not as typical or expected as in the United States, but it’s always appreciated when you receive excellent service, and it’s really up to you. Leaving a small tip is a nice gesture if service isn’t included in the bill. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is typically sufficient.

When visiting Rome or any other popular European destination, being vigilant about your belongings is essential. Pickpockets are known to target tourists, especially in crowded areas like the subway, lines, narrow, crowded paths and sidewalks, and famous places like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and museums.

And let’s be honest, if there was a place I wasn’t planning to visit in Italy, it was the police station or the U.S. embassy to replace a stolen passport.

Here’s what we did to ensure a safe and uneventful trip :

• Use Crossbody Bags with Zippers + Carabiners: My husband and I chose crossbody bags with secure zippers to keep our wallets and other small items, like cooling towels and portable fans. A crossbody bag is more complicated for a thief to snatch, and keeping it in front of you adds an extra layer of security.
• Secure Your Bag with Carabiners: To make our bags even more secure, I added carabiners to the zippers, effectively “locking” them to the bag’s hardware. This simple trick prevents quick access to your bag’s contents and deters potential pickpockets.
• Wear a Money Belt for Important Documents: We all carried a money belt inside our pants to keep our passports, extra cash, and other important documents safe. This hidden layer of security ensures that even if a pickpocket does get to your bag, your most valuable items remain secure.
• Avoid Using Backpacks or Handbags Without a Locking System: Use a backpack to carry towels, extra clothing, bottles, umbrellas, etc. Don’t use them to carry your passport, wallet, or anything of value. You’d be surprised how skilled pickpockets are at stealing people in broad daylight in front of a crowd, and no one will see it.
• Secure Your cell phone: Attach your phone to a

Taking these precautions allows you to enjoy your Roman adventure without constantly worrying about your belongings. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your trip safe and stress-free.

Keeping Your Belongings Safe In Italy

Final Thoughts

A summer week in Rome can be both magical and challenging due to the heat and crowds. By packing smart, planning, and staying cool, you’ll be able to enjoy all this historic city fully has to offer. Remember to pace yourself, embrace the slower pace of Italian life, and soak in the beauty of Rome—one of the world’s most captivating cities.

Clothing

• 6-7 Lightweight Tops (Sleeveless or short-sleeve, made of cotton or linen)
• 4-5 Pairs of Shorts (6-inch length for comfort)
• 1 Dress or Outfit Knee-length + covered shoulders (Appropriate for visiting religious sites like the Vatican)
• 1 Pair of Pajamas (Light and breathable)
• 1 Light Scarf or Shawl (For covering shoulders in religious sites or extra sun protection)
• Underwear for 7 Days (Consider moisture-wicking options)
• Socks (If wearing sneakers, bring breathable, low-cut socks)
• Swimwear + Coverup (If your accommodation has a pool or you plan to visit the beach)

Shoes

• 1 Pair of Comfortable Sneakers (For all-day walking on cobblestone streets)
• 1 Pair of Stylish Flats or Sandals (For evenings or less strenuous days)
• 1 Pair of Flip-flops if your trip includes beaches and pool.
• Socks to wear at home or an easy-to-pack pair of slippers

Accessories

• Cooling Towel (To help manage the heat)
• Portable Fan (Optional, but handy for staying cool on the go)
• Old-Style Hand Fan (Lightweight and easy to carry)
• Sunglasses (With UV protection)
• Foldable Hat (Wide-brimmed for sun protection)
• Umbrella (For sunshade as well as potential rain)

Toiletries

• Travel Toiletry Bag – this is my favorite and fits “everything”
• Travel-Sized Sunscreen (High SPF, suitable for face and body)
• After-Sun Lotion (Aloe-based to soothe any sun exposure)
• Lip Balm with SPF
• Deodorant (Travel-sized)
• Travel-Sized Shampoo and Conditioner
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Travel-Sized Moisturizer (For face and body)
• Minimal Makeup (Focus on lightweight, sweat-resistant products)
• Hand Sanitizer (Travel-sized)
• Reusable Water Bottle (Stay hydrated!)

Tech & Gadgets

• Phone and Charger
• Portable Charger/Power Bank
• Travel Adapter (For European outlets)
• Earbuds/Headphones
• Camera or Smartphone with Extra Storage (To capture all those amazing moments)

Documents & Essentials

• Passport and Copies (Keep a digital copy as well)
• Travel Insurance Information
• Credit Cards and Cash (In a secure money belt or RFID-blocking wallet)
• Printed or Digital Copies of Reservations (Hotels, tours, etc.)
• Map or Guidebook (Optional, but helpful for offline use)
• Medications (In original containers with prescription if needed)

Optional Items

• Foldable Tote Bag (For any souvenirs or extra items)
• Laundry Bag (For keeping dirty clothes separate)
• Small First Aid Kit (Band-aids, pain relievers, etc.)
• Snacks (Granola bars, nuts, or other non-perishable items)

Packing Tips:

• Roll Your Clothes: Rolling rather than folding can save space and reduce wrinkles.
• Use Packing Cubes: These help keep everything organized and maximize space in your carry-on.
• Wear Your Bulkiest Items on the Plane: Sneakers, jeans, and a light jacket can be worn during travel to save space in your bag.

This list should keep you comfortable and well-prepared for a week in Rome’s summer heat, all while fitting neatly into your carry-on. Enjoy your trip!

New post Summer in Rome: Essential Planning & What to Pack in a Carry-On on A Personal Organizer by Helena Alkhas

Declutter Before a Move: How to Simplify Your Transition to a New Home

Why Should You Declutter Before a Move?

Decluttering before moving is a transformative endeavor that can save time, money, and stress. By reducing the number of items you need to pack, you significantly lessen the physical and emotional burden of moving.

Fewer boxes mean lower moving costs and a quicker transition. Moreover, moving into a new space with only the essentials can create a sense of freshness and simplicity, allowing you to start anew without the weight of unnecessary possessions.

Decluttering before a move also allows you to reflect on your belongings, keeping only those that add value to your life and letting go of the rest.

The Importance of Creating a Decluttering Plan Before a Move

Creating a decluttering plan is crucial for an organized and efficient move. This plan serves as a roadmap, guiding you through each stage of the decluttering process. It helps to break down the overwhelming task into manageable steps, ensuring you stay focused and motivated.

A well-structured plan includes a timeline, specific goals, and a checklist of tasks to be completed.

Following a declutter checklist for moving, you can systematically tackle each room, making the process more streamlined and less daunting. It also ensures that nothing is overlooked and every item is accounted for.

Step 1: Assessing Your Belongings Before Moving

Begin the decluttering for a move process by thoroughly assessing your belongings. Take an inventory of everything you own, from furniture to knickknacks. This step allows you to understand the volume of items you have and identify what is truly necessary.

As you assess, ask yourself questions like: “Do I use this item regularly?” “Does it hold sentimental value?” “Is it worth the space it occupies?”

This reflective process helps to differentiate between essential items and those that are superfluous.

Step 2: Sorting and Categorizing Items

Once you’ve assessed your belongings, the next step in decluttering to move is sorting and categorizing them. Create piles or use bins labeled “Keep,” “Donate,” “Sell,” and “Trash.”

This methodical approach helps to organize items based on their future purpose.

Sorting is a critical step that simplifies the decluttering process by providing clear direction on where each item will go. It also makes it easier to see the volume of items in each category, which can be motivating as you see the “Keep” pile shrink.

Step 3: Purging and Letting Go of Unnecessary Items Before Packing For a move

Purging is perhaps the most challenging yet liberating step in decluttering before a move. It involves making decisive choices about what to let go of.

Embrace the philosophy of minimalism by keeping only what you need or love. Donate items that are in good condition but no longer serve you. Sell valuable items to recoup some costs. Dispose of broken or unusable items responsibly.

Remember, purging is not about getting rid of everything but creating space for what truly matters.

Step 4: Organizing Your Remaining Belongings

After removing unnecessary items, organize what remains. Arrange your belongings to maximize space and accessibility.

Use storage solutions like bins, shelves, and dividers to keep things tidy. Label boxes clearly to indicate their contents and the room they belong in.

An organized approach not only makes packing easier but also simplifies unpacking in your new home. It ensures that you can quickly find what you need without sifting through countless boxes.

Step 5: Selling, Donating, or Disposing of Unwanted Items

Now that you have categorized your items, it’s time to take action on the unwanted ones.

Sell valuable items through online marketplaces, garage sales, or consignment shops. Donating items to local charities or shelters can give them a new lease on life and benefit those in need.

For items that cannot be sold or donated, dispose of them responsibly, ensuring you follow local regulations for recycling and waste disposal. This step clears the way for a clutter-free move and helps others in the process.

Step 6: Packing and Labeling Boxes For a Move

Packing is the final step in the decluttering for moving process.

As someone who moved countless times as a Navy spouse and as a professional organizer, I recommend gathering high-quality packing materials, such as sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers. Follow these tips for efficient packing and labeling:

• Pack Room by Room: Tackle one room at a time to stay organized. Start with non-essential items and leave everyday necessities for last.
• Label Boxes Clearly: I can’t emphasize it enough: use a clear labeling system. Write the contents and the destination room on each box. For added efficiency, consider color-coding boxes by room. Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to.
• Be Smart When Labeling: Remember to label each corner since we can’t read what is written on the top when we pile them. I like to apply tape horizontally to the top corners and write the destination.
• Use Packing Paper and Bubble Wrap: Wrap fragile items individually in packing paper or bubble wrap. Fill any empty spaces in boxes with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent shifting during transit.
• Create an Inventory List: Keep a detailed list of what’s inside each box. This will make unpacking much easier and help you keep track of your belongings.
• Box Weight Management: Avoid overloading boxes. Keep the weight manageable to prevent injuries and box breakage. Place heavier items in smaller boxes and lighter items in larger ones.

Proper packing ensures your belongings are protected during the move and simplifies unpacking.

Decluttering Tips for a Smooth Moving Process

• Start Early: Begin the decluttering process as soon as you know you’re moving. This gives you ample time to sort through your belongings without feeling rushed or becoming burned out.
• Set Small Goals: Break the task into smaller, manageable goals, such as decluttering one room or category at a time. Have too many books or china? This is the perfect time to keep what you love.
• Stay Motivated: Keep the end goal in mind—a clutter-free new home. Reward yourself for completing each step.
• Involve the Family: Make decluttering a family activity. It will lighten the workload and teach valuable lessons about organization and letting go.
• Seek Help if Needed: If the task feels overwhelming, consider hiring a professional organizer or enlisting the help of friends.

Decluttering for a move is a meticulous but rewarding process. By following these steps and incorporating these decluttering tips for moving, you can ensure a smoother, more efficient move, setting the stage for a fresh start in your new home.

New post Decluttering For a Move: A Step-by-Step Guide on A Personal Organizer by Helena Alkhas

What to keep in mind when planning a summer vacation in Paris

So you’ve decided to book a trip to Paris this summer. That’s great – and you are in for a treat! With an abundance of incredible museums, famous cultural landmarks, great shopping opportunities, and some of the best food in the world, Paris is a bucket-list-worthy destination any time of year, and every adventurer should travel to it at least once in their lifetime.

As you may have heard, Parisians are a ‘special breed.’ French women and men alike are incredibly stylish, carefree, and chic without trying too hard, and they can be pretty difficult to impress. But with a bit of preparation, there is nothing you should worry about. With my help, discover tips and tricks on what to pack for a summer week in Paris.

white jeans / classic jeans / perfect t-shirt / cashmere t-shirt / tennis shoe / ballerina flat / black scarf / red scarf / green scarf / red scarf 2 / necklaces bundle / square earrings / pearl earrings / bracelet / sunnies / cashmere wrap / handbag / black dress / red dress / skirt / white blouse / black blouse / cardigan / camisole

Preparing Before Your Paris Trip

The last few days before vacation can be stressful, and there is so much to do! You shouldn’t forget some essential things before switching to holiday mode.

Even if you’re leaving your home for just a week, it is still important to prepare for your absence.

First, make sure to water any plants you own. It’s a great idea to get a house sitter or neighbor to come every day to check on them. If that’s an option, leave them clear instructions. 

Walk around the house and check that windows, doors, gates, and exterior structures like a garden shed are locked. Install timers on the most used lights and set them to reflect your usual hours.

Unplug everything you can, such as computers, TV, etc., and consider closing the main water register to avoid floods while away.

Set a note to remove the trash and recycle, clear your fridge, and discard all leftovers before you leave for the airport. Remember to take care of your pantry, too. You’d be surprised to know how awful rotten potatoes can smell!

Unless you’re planning on bringing your furry friends with you, you should find a suitable pet sitter. Leave clear instructions, emergency information, and your house rules for the sitter.

Go through your house and check whether anything dangerous isn’t left behind. Leave plenty of food and fresh water.

Before heading to Paris, call your alarm security system company and tell them when you’ll be on vacation.

The same goes for your credit card company. Let them know you will be using your card in another country and avoid the headache of finding yourself without access to money in the beautiful city.

If there’s one thing I learned not to leave home without, it’s travel insurance. This is especially true since the pandemic and other events worldwide. Reading the policy is not the most fun, but it is necessary to understand what’s covered in case you need it.

Since I am at it, include a first aid kit in your hand luggage, too.

Make sure you have everything you need and get your Travel Planner. Use this link for an instant 20% OFF. Have a relaxed and organized trip, knowing you took care of everything!

planning a summer vacation in Paris

Taking care of the practicalities at home isn’t the only thing you should do before heading on your trip to Paris.

We want this to be a fabulous vacation without nasty surprises or unpleasant situations. So, you must plan your trip, and this is what you should think about:

The Weather

Summers in Paris can be hot. We’re seeing heat waves across Europe, and it isn’t uncommon to have 38-40°C days, turning what could be lovely summer weather into blazing hot days.

It’s not uncommon for restaurants and apartments (if you’re heading to an AirBnB) to not have air conditioning. Therefore, you should plan your outfits for these warmer days and bring breathable and lightweight clothes. 

Check the weather forecast and plan your days in Paris accordingly. You can also expect rainstorms in the summertime, so having an umbrella or a rain jacket with you is a ‘must’ too.

Buy tickets in advance

Did you know Paris has been awarded the title of the most visited city worldwide for numerous years? It is true—the French capital is full of tourists. Careful planning is essential if you wish to avoid crowds. 

Unless you want to stand in long queues, purchasing tickets online for famous attractions before leaving your home is a good idea. This can be done for almost any must-see site in Paris, such as the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Musee d’Orsay, and more. Quite often, this is also how you can get a better price.

Avoid the extra cost of buying your tickets on the day of your visit and skip the lines with the Paris Museum Pass.

Use Google to find out the best time to visit each attraction. It will show a little graph of the busiest times of the day, and you can avoid the crowds.

Level of formality

It is no secret that people in the US are much more laid back than Europeans. Among other European countries, French people are often considered the most formal. Politeness is an essential value in the Land of Eiffel.

For example, in the US, salespeople leave us alone; when you enter a shop or any other public place, you should always greet someone with a ‘Bonjour.’ Otherwise, you will be perceived as rude.

Shorts and tennis shoes might not cut it in those excellent restaurants you want to try, so it’s a good idea to consider the Parisian dress code before packing your flip-flops. Your little black dress and a nice pair of shoes might come in handy for your evening outings.

What Shoes To Pack For A Paris Trip

If there is one thing any Parisian will tell you is that driving a car in the city is a nightmare. The traffic is terrible, and parking is difficult, so most locals favor the metro or their legs.

You should prepare for a lot of walking, and the best way to enjoy your long travel days is to pack comfortable shoes.

Keep in mind that many streets of Paris have cobblestones, so although you may look fabulous in high heels, they will make you feel miserable on your visit to this gorgeous city.

Make sure you pack comfortable walking shoes to have a good time walking around Paris.

COMFORTABLE SHOES FOR PARIS

Plan Your Paris Outfits Wisely & Pack Light

Fashion is a key element of culture and tradition in the French capital. If there is one place where you can let your inner fashionista shine, it is here. Luckily, you don’t have to bring your closet with you to look your best.

I’m a firm believer in packing light. With air travel as stressful and chaotic as it is now, packing a single carry-on will keep you agile and allow you to adjust quickly to changes.

Another thing to consider is your time in the city. Navigating through the city’s cobblestone streets will be challenging with a giant suitcase, so I strongly recommend traveling with a carry-on bag and a travel backpack.

When packing for Paris, take classic items that can be styled in multiple ways and make you feel comfortable, confident, and elegant. 

Your life will be much easier if you stick to a particular color palette. For example, by sticking to neutral colors like black, white, beige, and navy, you can mix and match without taking too many items. You can throw a pop of your favorite color on a pair of comfortable sandals or accessories.

Most importantly, have fun getting dressed!

A packing list for a week in Paris – Your Paris Wardrobe

The easiest way to plan how many items you should pack is to follow this “Bottoms x Tops Ratio”

Plan one bottom (pants, skirt, or shorts) for every three days; then plan two to three tops for each bottom, making sure they mix and match to maximize your options.

For a seven-day trip to Paris, I’ll bring three bottoms and seven tops. I will wear one of the bottoms (the bulkiest one) and one of the tops plus a light jacket on the way in and out of my destination.

My evening outfits include the bottom pieces above and one or two summer dresses.

white jeans / classic jeans / perfect t-shirt / cashmere t-shirt / tennis shoe / ballerina flat / black scarf / red scarf / green scarf / red scarf 2 / necklaces bundle / square earrings / pearl earrings / bracelet / sunnies / cashmere wrap / handbag / black dress / red dress / skirt / white blouse / black blouse / cardigan / camisole

When it comes to shoes, I’m very practical: one feminine and nice-looking tennis shoes for the day and a pair of flats for the evening. Plus, I have flat feet that don’t go well with shoes without support. I’m glad that sneakers have become more fashionable, and we no longer need to look like we have run out of the gym.

I don’t fuss with my brands and stick to what I know works well for me. Nothing beats the comfort of the Minnie ballet flats from Tory Burch, and while they’re an investment, they also last forever if you take good care of them. They fold nicely and take no space in the suitcase, and the leather ones have excellent cushioning. They’re perfect for night outings.

The same goes for the brands I wear – mostly J.Crew, as they’re long-lasting, practical, and offer a classic look I tend to stick to.

95% of my clothes don’t require ironing, but if you have items that will wrinkle, double check if your hotel/Airbnb offers an iron; if not, plan to bring a hand steamer like this one. It’s excellent.

• Wear the bulkiest and darkest items like your trench coat or leather jacket on the flight and save space in your carry-on.
• Use packing cubes and learn to fold like Marie Kondo. You’d be surprised to know how much you can fit in a carry-on bag!
• Bottoms x Tops Ratio – Plan one bottom (pants, skirt, or shorts) for every three days; then plan two to three tops for each bottom, making sure they mix and match to maximize your options.
• Every summer, the city creates pop-up Paris beaches along some areas along the Seine. Make sure you check where they are and what activity is being offered in each of them to plan your days.
• Remember that Paris is full of fabulous boutiques. So even if you forget to bring something, you can easily purchase it when you arrive.

Paris is unlike any other place in the world. There is something magical about the city of lights. Perhaps it is the stunning architecture or the fascinating people – either way, there is no question why the French capital should be your next summer destination.

I hope this Paris packing list helps you make the most of your time in Paris!

New post How to Prepare And What to Pack For A Fabulous Week In Paris on A Personal Organizer by Helena Alkhas