1. What is my budget for the trip?
Deciding on a budget for a trip to Italy can be a tricky task. Here are a few tips that can help you plan your budget:
Research the cost of flights and accommodation.
You can use online resources to compare prices and find the best deals.
Consider meals, transportation, and attractions.
Research the typical cost of food, transportation, and activities in Italy to determine how much you should set aside for these expenses.
Be realistic.
Make sure that your budget is realistic and that you can stick to it. Don't forget to factor in costs for unexpected expenses.
Don't forget to save for souvenirs.
Make sure you leave some room in your budget for souvenirs to bring back home.
2. What are the logistics of the trip (accommodation, transportation, activities, etc.)?
Your lodging preferences as well as how you want to travel around play a big factor in what cities to stay in and how far around the country you can move around in.
Apartment rentals may be cheaper but who are you going with? Do you want to share a common space or possibly a bathroom with them?
What kind of travel do you like slow and easy or seeing as much as I can?
Do I want guided tours - private or small group? Experiences, museums, shopping activities, etc.
3. What are the expected weather conditions during my trip?
Weather conditions can affect air travel, road conditions and could cause delays or unexpected detours. Part of deciding if renting a car is right for you is partly based on the seasonal weather chances. Heavy rain and snow can make traveling by car difficult.
Weather conditions can affect your packing list. If you're traveling to Italy during the summer months, you'll want to bring light, airy clothing and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. But if you're visiting in the winter, plan to pack heavier layers and warm boots in anticipation of cooler temperatures.
Weather conditions can also impact your choice of activities. If it's raining, you may want to take a museum tour or explore the local indoor markets, instead of heading outdoors. On the other hand, if the weather is beautiful, you may want to take advantage of it and plan an outdoor excursion, such as a hike in the Italian countryside.