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The season and areas visited will dictate specific clothing needs. Loose-fitting cotton garments over a layered base is a good rule, though a pullover or fleece will be appreciated for evenings in the mountain areas. Weatherproof gear is indispensable all year round for the volcano walks as well as the high-altitude routes in the Madonie range. Coastal paths, on the other hand, often call for a windproof jacket outside of summer, while inland routes may require long trousers for the inevitable overgrown thorny stretches. While shorts (for both sexes) are acceptable beachwear in Sicily they are not worn in the countryside, and may cause embarrassment or disapproval in small towns. Discretion is recommended.

It goes without saying that the list of essentials includes a water bottle, sunglasses, a hat (shade is a rare commodity in Sicily) and high-factor protective sun cream, which can double as a remover for the treacherous blobs of tar that occasionally stain the shoreline. Swimming and snorkelling equipment (goggles at least) are optional but warmly recommended, while an altimeter and compass come in handy where waymarking and useful landmarks are lacking. Bird enthusiasts will appreciate a pair of binoculars. A basic first-aid kit with plasters and insect repellent is suggested, as is a torch or headlamp for the cave in Walk 9 and the tunnels in Walk 12.