Packing for Children in Italy

Hi Kate: Our son, when he was small, wore shorts all over Italy. No one minded. I agree with Ralph about the children's Tylenol. In fact, see what your pediatrician recommends to bring, just in case.
One year in Italy, the mosquitos loved our son's skin. Couldn't find baking soda, but found cornstarch and put that in his bath which helped. So bug repellent for children and itch cream would be handy to have. Also have lots of snacks since they will get hungry at different times. Every time I saw a grocery store, I picked up juice boxes. Bandaids in your purse in case of blisters while sightseeing is very good to have. Have a wonderful trip!

I always travelled with the over the counter meds my kids were used to,, yes, they have stuff in Europe, but kids get sick at 3 am on sunday nights when you are in small towns,, murphys law.. so always have a fever reducer, tummy med and whatever else you would normally need and normally use for your child with you .

When ours were small, we made a small laminated card with the child's name and birthdate, our itinerary (hotels and dates), and contact info on it. Punch a hole in it and then you can attach it to their clothing each day with a mini carabiner or string, maybe tucked inside a pocket, etc. A simple way to identify who they are if they were to get lost, injured, etc., esp in a place where they may not speak the language.

I found the children dress up more in Europe and really anytime there was big city sight seeing. Like you would be if you and your kids went to Chicago or Boston. Really found they I didnt have enough better looking clothes. Plain t shirts and jean shorts didn't cut it. At that age, it was tough for me to find clothes at home that were not worn or stained or torn as the kids spend as much time on the ground as standing up. If you are in smaller villages, may not matter so much. You will need to buy things here maybe before you go for long pants and long sleeve shirts since they have changed sizes since last year. You need to consider whether you want to spend time and maybe extra money in Italy shopping for clothes. Remember to bring layers for the kids as you will probably spending much more time outside than you do in the states. They need to be comfortable. October and November can be chilly and wet just like in the US. Also consider buying a stroller there (altho try to check prices ahead of time) for the little one if a lot of walking is in your travels. Have fun!

Children ages 3 and 5 should have no problem getting into a church wearing shorts, I saw many during the summer in Italy. Definitely layer clothing, the weather changes a lot from day to night during the months you will be there. Sunscreen would be a good idea if you're spending a lot of time outside during September (you can buy it in Italy at pharmacies or other stores).

Kate, We have travelled extensively with our kids. We always bring "Jif to GO" packets (not in carry on obviously). You can always get some form of bread in Europe and then if there's nothing they like on the menu, that's their option. Italy is easier than some countries, though as you can ALWAYS get plain pasta there. Have fun. Have picnics. Take lots of pictures and enjoy!! Kaye
California