Milan - What to Pack - Clothing and Supplies Tips

In the summer Milan is hot and humid, but the winters can get pretty cold. Be sure to pack wisely and accordingly for your Milan trip.

Generally, you can plan to dress casual, but probably want to pack fancier clothing too. People are pretty well-dressed here. Milan isn't known as the city of high fashion and outlet shopping for nothing!

Summer: Try to take as many cotton or breathable clothes as possible. Bring t-shirts and shorts if you’re comfortable in these, but also “proper” clothing too because the churches and Cathedral do require shoulders and bare skin to be covered. You can wear thin, linen pants if you want to fit in with locals, they don't really wear shorts.

Fall: Pack a sweater, warm jacket and scarf.

Winter: It gets very cold so definitely bring your warm-weather clothing and gear. Think layers! It gets hot in the stores and restaurants.

There is lots of walking in this city, you'll want to definitely wear comfortable and flat shoes. Plus, it's just faster to get around by foot. The sidewalks are not pedestrian-friendly, so avoid heels, but If you do wear them, take great caution!

Most anything can be purchased in Milan upon arrival. You can easily buy shampoo, but conditioners seem harder to find. If you use OTC painkillers, bring your own, it just makes it easier because in Italy these items are behind the counter. Milan is renowned for the mosquitos, especially in the Navigli area. You may want to consider insect repellent and tote along some antihistamine. These beasties are monsters and don’t take any prisoners! Some people have allergic reactions to them even if they aren’t allergic to these buggers at home.

Pack your digital camera with a good memory stick or, if you use a film one, bring extra (film is more expensive in Italy than in North America). You’ll take lots of photos!  Don’t forget batteries and/or chargers.

An umbrella is a necessity, the weather changes all the time, and it rains frequently in all seasons. Other things to bring:

ATM card - There are many cash machines, so your card will not let you down.

Sunglasses – One of the most important things to bring with you to Italy. All Italians are wearing them even if there is no sun.

Towels – Bring your own if you like big fuzzy ones. Italians seem to use bed cloth-type pieces of fabric as their towels.

Editor's Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about what to pack when traveling to Milan.