What to Pack — and What to Skip (Because My Italian Decor Has You Covered)

Let’s be real — no one wants to schlep a 10-pound Italian crystal vase through customs, no matter how much you know your in-laws will love it. When we travel, we travel light. Now, we’re not saying don’t shop. We fully endorse bringing home a few cherished souvenirs, some delicious Torrone for the plane, and of course, at least a pound of Italian espresso. But depending on where you’re traveling, some of those treasures are simply too fragile, too bulky, or too risky to survive the journey — which is exactly where we come in.

Here we present some of Italy's most popular gifts from the most famous regions, but they're ones you can skip the hassle of carrying home and send directly to your doorstep, no checked bags required!

Florence

Florence is home to gorgeous leather bags, carved wood, and micro-mosaics. Perfect as gifts, or keepsakes for yourself, you'll want to bring home these treasures.

Italian Leather Bags and Wallets, like a fine wine, get better with age! Snag yourself a handmade Italian Leather piece that'll become your go-to favorite for years to come.

Florentine Carved Wood -handcrafted using traditional tools and techniques. Our Carved Wood Collection is imported directly from a family-owned business in Florence using the same craftsman traditions for three generations.

Florentine Micro-mosaics -The art and technique of Byzantine micro mosaics have not changed since they were first made at the beginning of the 5th century in Ravenna, Italy. Each thread of brightly colored glass is cut and attached to another to form the original and distinctive designs.

Murano

Murano Glass - Need we say more? This charming island is home to some of the most dazzling, decorative glasswork in the world. The gift options are endless — so we did the hard work for you. For over two decades, we've fostered strong partnerships with the talented artisans on the island of Murano, allowing us to proudly bring their art directly to you - minus the glass-in-suitcase anxiety.

Murano Glass Tumblers -more than just glassware, they are smile inducing beverage carriers. Handblown glass tumblers are a cherished keepsake, perfect for savoring a spritz at home and letting your mind wander to dreams of your next Italian escape.

Murano Glass Fruitadds a pop of Italian sunshine to your home, serving as a sweet, cherished reminder of your Mediterranean adventures.

Murano Glass Ornaments make the perfect gift for family or for own collection. Each holiday season, as you trim your tree, these enchanting Murano glass ornaments will bring a little extra sparkle!

Venice

Last but not least — a few of our favorite hand-painted crystal pieces from Venice. Too bulky for a carry-on, but perfect for bringing that Venetian flair home without the packing drama.

Hand-Painted Crystal -Inspired by stained glass art in churches. Our Hand-Painted Italian Crystal is made to hold the beauty of natural light. Everything from large vases to tiny shot glasses, we carry a wide variety of classic and modern patterns. Made with lead-free Italian crystal these collections are the most vibrant glassware around.

Did you know?Hand-painted Italian crystal, a common sight on the island of Murano is not actually produced on Murano itself. Instead, it originates just outside of Venice in the Veneto region, where skilled artisans meticulously hand-paint each piece, creating the beautiful works of art seen throughout the area. (We wrote a whole post on this subject if you'd like to read more.)

So whether you're dreaming of cobblestone strolls in Florence, glassblowing magic in Murano, or San Marco Square sips in Venice, you don’t have to fit it all in your suitcase.

Buon viaggio!