Budget travel checklist b9

Smart packing, cost breakdowns and practical tips to travel Italy affordably — curated by PAOLO MARI.

Updated 2025 · Practical, minimal, tested on the road

Essential packing — carry-on only

Compact checklist for 7–10 days with a focus on multi-use items and lightweight gear.

  • 1 set of versatile shoes (walk & evening)
  • Layering clothes — 3 tops, 2 bottoms, light jacket
  • Travel towel, travel-size toiletries, basic first-aid
  • Power bank, compact charger, plug adapter
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Packed backpack

Sample budget breakdown

Estimate per day — adjust to your route and travel style.

Category Low (€) Mid (€) High (€)
Accommodation 25 55 120
Meals 15 35 70
Transport 8 20 40
Activities & tips 5 15 40
Total/day 53 125 270

Tip: aim for the low to mid range in small towns; expect higher costs in peak-season cities.

Detailed packing categories

3 tops, 2 bottoms, underwear, socks, lightweight jacket, 1 multipurpose shoe, sandals. Roll to save space.

Passport/ID, printed reservations, 1 credit card, small cash in local currency, photocopy of important docs.

Phone, charger, power bank, minimal toiletries (solid shampoo), meds, small sewing kit, reusable water bottle.

Money-saving travel tips

  1. Travel shoulder season for lower rates and fewer crowds.
  2. Use regional trains and night buses for long distances.
  3. Eat where locals do — ask small trattorie for the daily menu.
  4. Use city cards selectively for museums you value most.
Street cafe in Italy
Paolo Mari portrait

About PAOLO MARI

I’m Paolo — traveler, guide and author of practical road and budget tips. I prefer slow, local travel that fits a small budget without missing authentic experiences.

Contact: + (39) 339 827-46-15 · liniad.org@gmail.com

Resources & recommended apps

Budget hosts

Hostels and family-run B&Bs

Find hosts
Local transport apps

Regional train timetables & low-cost buses

Check routes
Packing tools

Lightweight gear recommendations

See gear list
Train window view