Popular Fashion Designer Shares One Thing You Should Avoid Packing For Your Trip To Italy

Italy is an incredibly popular tourist destination — who could say no to the country's incredible food, museums, beaches, architecture, and rich culture? It also happens to be one of the most fashionable countries in the world, home to designers like Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Prada, Missoni, Valentino, Fendi, and Dolce & Gabbana. So, it's understandable that when packing for an Italian holiday, you may feel inclined to bring your fanciest attire.

But when it comes to footwear, J.J. Martin, founder of the Milan-based fashion house La DoubleJ, advises travelers to leave one thing at home: high heels. "Pack flats, flats, and more flats — literally," Martin told Who What Wear.

"No summer destination in Italy requires a high heel. Not only do they take up too much space in your luggage, but they are uncomfortable and deeply inappropriate for any chic resort town in Italy," she explained. "You don't wear high heels to Il Pellicano or in Como. You wear very chic clothing and comfortable flats — but beautiful ones, obviously."

So, it looks like it's time to cross "heels" off the packing checklist and replace them with "comfortable but beautiful flats." Copy that.

Martin went on to recommend packing lightweight silks (space-efficient and light in weight), swimwear that doubles as ready-to-wear, pieces that are made from white lace, and matching sets, which make it easier to pair outfits. Similarly, the folks at SavoringItaly emphasized the importance of comfortable shoes. They also recommend a "less is more" approach, which can be achieved by packing clothes in neutral colors, as well as pieces that are easy to mix and match.

Per Mom in Italy, the top tip is comfy footwear (we're sensing a pattern here!). She also recommends leaving the "just in case" items at home. It'll lighten your travel load and, if you do end up needing an item of clothing that you didn't pack ... well, now you have the perfect excuse for a little shopping excursion in Italy!

So, in short: It's all about comfortable shoes and packing clothes that can be worn more than once because they match easily with the other items in your suitcase. Keep it light and simple — you'll be glad you did when you're not slapped with an overweight luggage fee and then forced to haul around said heavy luggage throughout your relaxing vacation.