Quick Trip to ItalyThe Light Travel Kit from the UK
One bag. No drama at the gate. Power that works, documents that pass, and a checklist that saves your morning.
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Gate-proof sizes
Pick one bag that fits the strictest airline and stop worrying.
Docs, calm brain
A4 wallet for originals + copies; digital backups labelled clearly.
Power that works
Grounded UK→EU adapter; skip cheap bricks that fail in hotels.
Flying back for a quick appointment or a weekend with family shouldn’t feel like a logistics exam. This kit removes the guesswork: airline sizes that actually pass at the gate, a power setup that doesn’t spark, and a documents flow that keeps stress out of your day.
Below: a carry-on strategy that works across UK↔Italy routes, the compact kit, seasonal packing, power, gifts you can bring, and a 10-minute checklist. Realistic budget links included.
Airline “personal item” sizes that actually fit
Under-seat **personal item** target that fits most strict carriers: 40×20×25 cm. Upgrade to “priority” on some airlines to add a second larger cabin bag.
| Airline (typical) | Personal item (cm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ryanair / Wizz | 40 × 20 × 25 | Strict sizers at gate; priority adds 55 × 40 × 20 |
| EasyJet | 45 × 36 × 20 | Slightly larger personal item; “Up Front” adds cabin bag |
| BA / legacy | 40–45 × 30–36 × 20 | Cabin allowance varies by fare; check your ticket |
Buy once: EU-sized 40×20×25 cm backpack + packing cubes + slim foldable tote.
The compact travel kit (carry-on only)
Space & order
- Packing cubes — sets
- Foldable tote — lightweight
- Digital luggage scale — avoid fees
Documents & consular folder (zero panic at the desk)
- Passport/ID + printed boarding pass (apps can fail at gates).
- A4 wallet: appointment confirmation, AIRE proof if needed, photocopies, passport photos, payment proof.
- Cloud + phone scans; filename style surname_docname_YYYY.pdf.
- Emergency card: contact, insurer, GHIC/EHIC, card blocks, consulate address.
Need help with documents? View Resinaro Services →
Security & liquids: move fast at the checkpoint
- Toiletries ≤100 ml in a clear bag at the top of your backpack.
- Meds in original packaging + spare day’s dose in a second pocket.
- Laptop/tablet easy to remove unless your airport signs say otherwise.
- Power bank in cabin only; never in checked baggage.
Power in Italy: UK→EU done right
Italy uses 220–240 V and Type-C/L sockets. For laptops/phones, a **grounded** adapter is safest.
Buy once: grounded UK→EU adapter.
High-draw items (hair dryers/straighteners) can exceed cheap adapters—use local devices or ensure correct rating.
What to wear: quick seasonal lists
Spring/Autumn
- Light jacket, scarf, 2 tops, 1 bottom
- Comfy shoes for cobbles
- Compact umbrella
Summer
- Breathable shirts, 1 shorts/skirt
- Hat/sunglasses, evening light layer
- Shoulders covered for churches
Winter
- Warm layer + compact puffer
- Gloves, beanie, thermal socks
- Weatherproof shoes
Gifts & what you can bring back
- Dry goods (biscuits, coffee, pasta) are easiest for hand luggage.
- Liquids over 100 ml must be checked—or buy after security.
- Wine/olive oil: buy airside to skip limits; protect glass on return.
Always follow airline, airport, and customs rules for food/liquids.
10-minute pre-flight checklist
- Passport/ID + boarding pass (paper + app). Wallet + backup card.
- RFID wallet + A4 folder (appointments, AIRE proof, photos, copies).
- Phone, cable, grounded UK→EU adapter, headphones, power bank.
- Liquids bag on top; meds in name-labelled packs.
- Weigh bag; confirm size (40×20×25 cm personal item).
- Foldable tote inside the backpack for the journey home.
Want the checklist as a printable PDF?
Related Resinaro guides
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