Packing for Italy in summer - a sample packing list

I usually travel alone and move between locations, and this affects my packing lists. I need my luggage to be as small, light and manageable as possible, and I aim for simple clothing which won't draw too much attention. If you're planning glam romantic meals or have small children to tumble around with, you'll probably want to tweak the list. If you have assistance with your luggage, or are staying in one venue for your entire stay, you might feel inclined to include more stuff. I aim for the minimum to meet my needs, be prepared for likely eventualities, and to look nicely and appropriately dressed.

City and beach break in summer, 5-7 days: a list for women

This was my list for a week in Venice when I planned to take trips to islands and spend time on the beach. I've de-personalised it slightly,  but it's still a 'women's' packing list. Much of the stuff will still apply to men though. I hope the list might make a good starting point if you're at a loss for what to pack for a summer break in Italy.

Luggage: one cabin-size 4-wheeled suitcase (checked in), one 20-litre rucksack with multiple pockets, one cross-body handbag. Boarding pass Passport Tickets and passes for UK travel to airport Hotel details inc.  map Travel insurance details, EHIC (health care card), important contact numbers, passport photocopy Cash, euros Credit/debit cards Phone plus EU charger IT equipment plus adaptor Camera plus charger plus spare SD card. Mini tripod Notebook, pens Nook/Kindle/book Maps, booklets, info, printouts, guidebook*

Sunglasses Umbrella or cagoule Scarf – 1 heavy, 1 light (large enough to cover shoulders and arms when visiting churches). Neckerchief to restrain hair when on boats Folding beach bag or small rucksack Money belt (useful on beach) Hat Fan Platypus/water bottle Snack & favourite teabags Plastic sandwich-size bags Laundry liquid Torch Earplugs Beach towel (Hammamas) Minimal jewellery

Flip flops Sandals All-weather shoes Nightwear Light long layers for indoors Two x swimwear T-shirt dress to wear over swimwear. Shorts Two pairs of light comfortable linen/linen mix trousers for evening and journey 2 t-shirts Smarter t-shirt or top Short-sleeved blouse Sleeveless top Two dresses Lightweight long-sleeved shirt Cardigan or thin jumper Underwear > More detailed suggestions: capsule wardrobe for Italy in summer

Sunlotions (face and body) Mini bottle of sun lotion Aftersun with insect repellent Insect repellent spray Tissues Wet wipes Mini Swiss Army Knife Scissors Toothbrush Toothpaste and mouthwash Shower cap Shower gel Shampoo and conditioner Deodorant Hairbrush and comb Facial moisturiser with SPF (for when there's not enough sun for proper sun protection) Hand cream with SPF Minimal make up (concealer, mascara, eye shadow, lipstick) Make-up removal wipes First aid (painkillers, plasters, antiseptic cream etc) Travel washing line Hair accessories Anti-histamines and hydrocortisone cream (both for mosquito bites) Other personal essentials

*Obviously I don't actually take a guidebook to Venice as I've written my own. But in general I'll take a guidebook, sometimes cut up, to any new destination.