Going to Italy

I'm going on a trip to Italy next summer, so I've decided to start a packing list of things I'd like to take, so that I can pare it down in plenty of time if I decide I'm overpacking.

Granted, there are a few things that I already own, and there are of course other places to purchase these items, so YMMV - shop around. :)

Scottevest Travel Vest. Seriously. Have enough pockets to lighten your carryon. I love mine. :) (it was a bit too warm to wear off the plane in July, though it was handy.)

CoolMax Travel Blanket - Planning to get one in a color other than "airline blue". But only if it is tiny and fits easily in my carryon.. (I didn't get one, and the Iberia plane was far too hot. Coming back, Delta gave us clean blankets anyway, and I was wearing a sweatshirt I'd bought in London. I'd developed chills & fever from a sinus infection.)

Eagle Creek Pack-It Slim Kit. Not sure that this would be better than the tiny makeup case I already use, but it would be nice to have that mirror, the hanging hook, and all the pockets to hang up what I need instead of digging through a bag. If it's smaller, it might be worth bringing.. I didn't buy this.

Bag Bungee - I have one and it's as secure as it looks. The top bag will definitely stay put, unlike when I've tried to put my bag's carry handle over the pull-bar and it just fell off. LOL If I take two bags, I'll be bringing this along as well.

Travel Clothesline. Yes, I made this (I love to make useful things) and use it even at home when I need some extra drying room. Works great and it's only a handful. Plus, you don't need pins. :)

Silk Money Belt I took a cheaper one. I think all money belts are sweaty.

Minimus Carry-On Caddy - designed to slip your ziploc baggie of liquids into and snap onto the outside of your luggage for convenience. They have several filled kits but I have my own favorites I would rather travel with. The caddy, empty, is only $4.99.. Used it - worked great. :)

Travel packs for OTC meds like Tylenol...

Thinking also about the Wisp mouth brushes with the bead of toothpaste on them, for in-flight freshening. Also La Fresh makeup removers, etc, wipes instead of bottled stuff - they come in packets and you just toss them afterward, leaving more room in your bags.

(Used the Wisps... Lovely effect. Used my Neutrogena makeup remover wipes instead of individuals.)

I crocheted my own mesh market bags and used them for shopping. It was nice to sling one cotton bag handle over my shoulder with all my other bags inside, instead of carrying all those plastic bag handles in my sweaty hand. Tossed my water bottle in too. :). I even made a couple more to keep me occupied during boring travel and wait times and gave them away to other travelers in our group.