Want to protect yourself from the Italian sun on your epic road trip?
I’m here to help! 👋
The European continent boasts a laundry list of beautiful cities, attractions, and natural wonders. However, some of these gems can be easily missed if you just fly in and out.
This is why I strongly advocate for leisurely road trips- and driving through Italy is a must!
From the thoroughfares that wind around the Amalfi Coast to the Great St. Bernard Pass connecting Italy and Switzerland, some of Italy’s highlights are best viewed by driving through them.
However, the Mediterranean sun can be relentless, especially during the summer.
Therefore, taking sun safety precautions is a MUST for a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
So let’s look at the essential items you need to ensure your road trip in Italy remains sun-safe!
1. Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a non-negotiable item when driving through Italy.
The sun can be particularly strong, specifically in regions like Tuscany, Sicily, and the Amalfi Coast.
Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to sunburn, premature ageing, and even skin cancer.
To prevent this, the use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and four stars is recommended to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
According to experts, you need to apply about two tablespoons worth of sunscreen to ensure total skin protection.
So keep this in mind when applying on your drive!
However, there are so many options out there it can be hard to decide!
One option to consider is La-Roche Posay’s Anthelios sunscreen with SPF 50.
Aside from blocking UV rays, this zinc oxide and titanium dioxide formula combines antioxidants to protect skin from free radicals, promising sun safety throughout your drive.
This is the best way to guarantee sun safety for any Italy road trip- and is super easy to pack, even when flying!
2. Sunglasses
Protecting your eyes from the harsh Italian sun is equally important.
They will be a lifesaver when driving too- do not travel without them (I have in the past and oh my it was a challenge!)
Sunglasses hugely enhance visibility by reducing glare from the road and other vehicles
They also have other great benefits like preventing eye strain, reducing the risk of cataracts, and protecting the delicate skin
around your eyes from UV damage.
However, not all sunglasses are the same quality.
Typically, those from premium brands meet more stringent standards than cheap sunglasses.
For stylish and effective sun protection, The Sunglass Hut is a good shout. They offer a vast selection of high-quality sunglasses.
Models like the 6S2013 Kailano by Costa and Versace’s VE4474U frames provide excellent UV protection while keeping you looking chic.
The Kailano sunglasses also come with polarised lenses to further reduce glare, making them ideal to use when driving along sunny coastal roads or exploring cities like Milan, Florence and Venice.
3. Car sunshades
Sunshades are a practical sun safety solution for keeping your vehicle cool and protecting the interior from damage.
They are also super handy if you plan on sleeping in your car!
They are most useful when parked under the blazing Italian sun.
Trust me, the sun can quickly turn your car into an oven and make it uncomfortable to get back in. Especially if you are wearing summer clothing!
The Automobile Association recommends popping a windscreen sunshade on your dashboard to reflect the sun’s heat.
This also keeps touchpoints such as the steering wheel and gear lever from becoming too hot.
Opt for reflective panels such as the EcoNour Windshield Car Sunshade.
These fit over the windshield and side windows, blocking out the sun’s intense rays and reducing the temperature inside your car.
4. Insulated Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is essential when navigating the sun-drenched streets of Italy.
Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and heat-related illnesses, which can quickly ruin your road trip experience.
Having an insulated water bottle keeps your drink cool for hours, ensuring you have refreshing water on hand throughout your trip.
Luckily, you can drink the water in Italy and there are plenty of free spots to fill up your bottle!
The Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Bottle is a great option, known for its excellent insulation and durability.
Available in various sizes and colours, it keeps beverages cold for up to 24 hours.
This makes it much more practical than carrying a cooler everywhere!
Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Rome or driving through the vineyards of Chianti, having a reliable insulated water bottle ensures you stay hydrated and energised.
Sun Safety For Your Italy Road Trip: Final Thoughts
A road trip through Italy promises unforgettable experiences, from the historic streets of Rome to the stunning coastal drives of the Amalfi Coast.
However, the sun can be both a friend and foe on these adventures!
By packing these four sun safety essentials, you can protect yourself from the sun’s harmful effects and enjoy your journey to the fullest.
Lowri Thomas is the founder of Many Other Roads. She lives and travels in Europe and has explored more than 40 countries. She is joined on her travels with her dog Scout and they explore Europe mostly by road. Born in Wales, she also shares the best things to do in Wales, UK and beyond. She helps over 50,000 people per month plan epic Europe adventures and road trips.
