Luggage And Bags: Space Saver Bags - really great for conserving space.
Backpack type bags (with wheels...and added bonus) - heavy cumbersome luggage adds stress (which you don't need if you're on vacation; especially on narrow, cobbled streets)
Money belt (the ones you can wear underneath your clothes) - you can put your passport, credit cards, extra money, and anything you want to keep close to you (literally) --> great for your peace of mind.
I got some of the above items I needed at the ebags site: www.ebags.com
You can also try: www.ebay.com
Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: Bring versatile clothing (e.g. black skirt/pants - they can go with ANYTHING, a few bottoms and lots of tops - mix and match)
You don't want to bring too much because you don't want to have to worry about lugging things around...if you are really adventurous and don't mind roughing it a bit, you can always wash and dry your clothes once they get dirty!
Comfortable walking shoes - Rome is too beautiful to see through a taxi.
Rick Steve's Packing Lists & Useful Tips:
http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/t
ips/home.htm (Look under the "Packing Tips" Column)
Toiletries & Medical Supplies: You can always get what you need in Rome..."when in Rome, do as the Romans do" - I loved trying out their toothpaste (even though it was probably the same type as back home, it was great because I got it from Rome). :-)
Make sure to have basics form emergencies (e.g. small towel, hand wipes ~ can be used as body wipes if necessary)
There are hospitals here but bring a basic first aid kit & make sure to bring your medications with extra refills (depending on your stay).
Rick Steves: http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/home.htm (Look under the "Health" column)
Photo Equipment: Lots of film...if you have a digital camera (bring a memory card with LOTS of memory or a storage device to transfer your pictures to)
Miscellaneous: Converters are a great asset.
An ATM card (confirm with your home bank that you can use it overseas & find out the charge for using it overseas)
A credit card - mostly everyone takes credit card ( I found VISA and Mastercard to be accepted wherever I went).
Spare Cash (for emergencies & so you won't have to keep using the ATM)
Willingness to mingle, even if you don't speak Italian - Italians are wonderful, friendly people who are willing to help; if all else fails, use hand signals
Guidebooks - Rick Steves is one of the ebst (the best in my opinion). I've used his books, videos, stayed at places that he recommended. Also his travel specialist can help you build an itinerary for free; just e-mail them at: rick@ricksteves.com
Rick Steves' Europe Through the Back Door
130 4th Ave N
POB 2009
Edmonds, Wa 98020
Tel: 425/771-8303
Fax: 425/771-0833
E-mail: rick@ricksteves.com
Travel Tips:
http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/home.htm
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on Nov 17, 2004
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