McAllister

I have two choices -- a black trench or a a black fleece lined rain jacket with a hood. Our trip includes Milan, Bellagio, and the Cinque Terre. In addition we will be spending a few days in Switzerland (Chur and Luggano).

If we were going to Paris, I would definitely take the trench. If we were going back to Scotland, I would definitely take the rain jacket. Anyone with an opinion?

(By the way, I know this is a silly question but I thought someone might be able to help me before I finalize my packing!)

stevelyon

Good luck - Ive been following the temps for Milan recently and its around the 60 mark - quite comfortable.

LJ

Whichever one is more waterproof: it won't likely be that cold (and you can always layer), but it is spring and you are going to be on the coast so it will be damp.

caroltis

I believe there are very few "silly" questions for this forum - in my opinion that's what we're all here for...if it's something you want to know - those with insight should be willing to answer.

I'd say a lightweight hooded waterproof 3/4 jacket so you can be ready in light showers - if it gets uncomfortably cool - just layer underneath. Can you remove the fleece lining?

SeaUrchin

I would not take a fully trench this time of year, I would feel like dracula traisping though Spring. I vote for the black fleece jacket.

SeaUrchin

Ha, I am not sure what a "fully" trench is but I wouldn't take a full one either !

Treesa

I vote for the rain jacket. I'm always cold in Switzerland. I've been told by my European friends it's been a very cold winter.

bobthenavigator

Which ever one is warmer--it will be chilly in March.

Jean

Friends of ours encountered snow in northern Italy last year.

directions

Hi, my opinion is just to take a light jacket. I just got back from there and wore a hip length light jacket, worked great.

If it rains and it might there are other options such as an umbrella or escape into a wonderful museum just don't over load yourself.

I took silk long johns just in case and only wore them once but they are light available if needed.

Proenza_Preschooler

Well, as the resident fashion maven of Fodor's, I would take the rain jacket if I was going to be doing "touristy" things--like climbing towers and walking through ruins.

If I were going shopping or going to museums and art galleries, I would take the trench coat.

Milano, by the way, is VERY fashion conscious. You had better work it, girl, in order to keep up.

Balenciaga

McAllister

Thank you all for your replies! Sometimes it really helps to get someone else's opinion. My trench is not full length and hits well above the knee. I was leaning towards it but now y'all have convinced me of the other...

To answer caroltis, the fleece is not removable but I wish it was! Although, that jacket was the single best thing I took to Scotland last summer!

McAllister

Ahhh, Balenciaga, I was wondering if you would chime in! In fact, I was writing my most recent response when you did. Milan is actually my concern. Most of our trip is doing "touristy" things...including an 8 mile hike. However, I don't want to look silly in Milan. Anyone have ideas as to clothes that would be appropriate (yet fit in my small suitcase and be useful otherwise...I know, I know, a tall order)? And I leave tomorrow...yikes!

LoveItaly

Hi McAllister, personally I would take the trench coat. Sorry SeaUrchin.