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Packing for France can be an intimidating task – but I’m here to help. I live in Paris and I’ve spent ten years advising visiting friends and relatives on what to bring to Paris, and just France in general.
Simple planning can make things easier when it comes to deciding what to bring and planning for what you want to buy during your visit. This guide breaks down everything from baggage to clothing and other travel essentials.
Let’s dive in!
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🖨️ Get a free, printable version of our France packing list here.
Table of Contents
Travel Essentials for France
Carry On Luggage
The Charles de Gaulle Airport luggage claim can get crowded, and I’ve lost more than one bag there over the years. I always advise only bringing a carry-on bag to France if it’s possible.
The Monos Carry-On Pro is an incredible choice for a luxurious carry-on. It even has a laptop tray you can pull out to work in the airport. Read our Monos luggage review for a full breakdown.
Travel Backpack
A travel backpack is the perfect companion for a trip to France. Carry your laptop and other items with ease. It can even help you avoid checking a bag if you pack light enough.
The Tortuga Travel Backpack‘s design maximizes both space and comfort for easy travel. You can read Abigail’s review here for more.
Power Adapter
Plan to get a power adapter before arriving in France. Your electronics will need charging after your journey! The Lencent European Travel Adapter is my favorite US-to-EU adapter. It has a low price point, yet offers multiple features including a USB charging port.
Reusable Water Bottle
The last thing you want ruining your French vacation is thirst. A collapsible water bottle is the ideal travel companion. Bring it on the plane to fill up during travel, then keep it with you on the go.
This Special Made Collapsible Water Bottle is my favorite water bottle. It’s lightweight and BPA-free, made out of food-grade materials.
E-Reader
I’m a lifelong reader and I always pack way too many books when I travel. Minimize your travel load with an e-reader. These devices can hold thousands of books—many of which you can find for free.
The Amazon Kindle is the market leader in e-readers. It stores thousands of titles, is easy on your eyes, and lasts weeks without recharging.
Portable Power Bank
It’s stressful to have your phone or device run out of battery while you’re traveling. With a portable power bank, you don’t have to worry about this. Charge it before you leave, then plug your devices in when they get low.
I love the INIU Portable Charger for its versatility. Not only will it charge USBs, but it also has USB-C chargers.
ExpressVPN
A virtual private network hides your location from internet trackers. At the same time, it protects your privacy. Using a VPN has truly changed my life, as I can access sites like my US bank from France without fear. ExpressVPN is the best there is. It’s quick, reliable, and easy to use.
Shoe Bags
Opening your suitcase after a long flight can be upsetting, particularly if you forget to separate your shoes. I always try to use shoe bags to keep my clothes fresh while protecting my footwear.
Diommell Shoe Bags have a low price point, particularly for a 12-piece (six-pair) set. They’re lightweight, easy to see through, and easy to clean.
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes make it easier to fit everything you need into a single suitcase. They compress your items, removing excess air so that your things take up less space.
These Well Traveled Packing Cubes are a great set. The eight pieces ensure that you have cubes to fit all your items, while the chic monochrome keeps the inside of your suitcase chic.
Travel Medicine Kit
Nobody plans to get sick while traveling. But it sometimes happens. And if you get sick on a Sunday in France, it can be hard to find a pharmacy, particularly in smaller French towns.
I love the TravelPak Rx Travel Medicine Kit for how light it is. At the same time, the 73 pills have you covered for everything from headaches to stomachaches.
Wrinkle Releaser Spray
Who wants to spend all their time in France ironing? Not me. I was doubtful when I first learned about wrinkle releaser spray. But since I saw the miracles it can perform in real life, I’ve been a convert.
Downy Wrinkle Releaser is my favorite spray. You can get it in travel-size for your carry-on and arrive in France looking (and smelling) fresh.
Laundry Bag
A laundry bag might seem like a waste of precious suitcase space. However, it will let you pack fewer items because you can wash the few you bring.
The JHX Dirty Laundry Bag with Handles is a great choice to take to France. It’s sturdy, durable, and comes with handles to make it easier to carry.
Travel Blanket and Pillow
Airplanes aren’t known for their comfort. Even if you’re traveling first class, the cabin can still get cold. The Eversnug Travel Blanket and Pillow is a great set. The plush materials and warmth of the fabric will keep you toasty in the most frigid air conditioning.
Foldable Tote
French shops will charge you for bags, so bring a folded tote for your market days. Having a tote will help you be environmentally friendly while also saving you money.
The Savvery Foldable Large Tote Bag is a great choice. This bag folds up extremely small. Yet, it’s washable and lightweight, making it an easy addition to any suitcase.
Travel Umbrella
Umbrellas are a surprisingly expensive item in France. People rarely think about buying one until it’s already raining. Plan to bring a sturdy travel umbrella to save hassle.
The Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella has a reinforced canopy for high winds. Meanwhile, its reasonable price, lightweight, and durability make it a good choice for travel.
Manicure Kit
France has a ton of bargains if you know where to look. Grooming items aren’t among them. Even something as simple as nail scissors can have a shockingly high price tag.
The Zizzon Manicure Kit has everything you need to keep your nails groomed on the go. The rose-gold set provides an extra pop of color, too!
Medication Organizer
It can be easy to fill up your suitcase with pill bottles if you take medication. It’s also easy to lose track of your medication schedule. A travel medication organizer will help you with both of these issues.
The Holii Travel Pill Organizer is a great travel pill case. It’s simple yet useful. It’s also secure, ensuring your pills won’t spill during travel.
Checklist of Other France Essentials to Pack
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Face masks
- Contact lens solution and case
- Passport
- An alternate form of ID (e.g. driver’s license)
- International Driver’s License or notarized license translation (if driving in France)
- Local road maps (if driving)
- Vaccination record
- Medications
- Melatonin
- Airplane neck pillow
- Travel-sized liquid toiletries and carry-on bag
- Travel wallet
- Personal Alarm
- Waterproof document bag
- Headphones
- Jewelry and accessories
- Toiletries
Check our list of travel essentialsto make sure you haven’t forgotten anything!
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Craft your own custom itinerary without stress. Get a self-guided trip plan tailored by our local expert Rachel.
Clothing, Shoes, & Accessories to Pack for France
Plan to bring a variety of neutral basics that you can pair together for a capsule wardrobe when packing for France. With that in mind, it’s easy to forget important items! I’ve compiled all the basics that most people will need in France.
Light Jacket
A light jacket is a great item to add to your France packing list if you visit France between spring and fall. France can get cold in the evenings even in summer. Meanwhile, air conditioning is increasingly common.
Make any outfit cozy with the Columbia Women’s Heavenly Hooded Jacket or Columbia Men’s Ascender Jacket. The men’s jacket also comes in different colors.
Sneakers
Anyone planning on sightseeing should bring along a good pair of sneakers. Allbirds make great, lightweight shoes that still provide excellent support. Plus, their shoes feature natural materials.
Women should check out the Allbirds Women’s Tree Runners. The Allbirds Men’s Wool Runners is an upscale twist on a sporty basic.
Flats
You don’t need dress shoes to look polished. The Olukai Men’s Slip-on Sneakers are classic with a modern twist that can take you from day to night. Meanwhile, women should check out the Frank Mully Women’s Ballet Flats for a breathable and comfortable classic flat.
Crossbody Bag
A crossbody bag is a classic unisex item that will keep your items more protected than a traditional bag. Try the Carhartt Unisex Crossbody Bag for a basic version that will go with any outfit. The Bostantan Crossbody Bag for Womenprovides a fashionable twist.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are an important accessory throughout France whether you’re traveling to the Côte d’Azur or the French Alps. I love the Sungait Sunglasses for how lightweight yet durable they are. They’re also classic and unisex, making them easy to wear with any outfit.
Other Clothing, Shoes, & Accessories to Pack for France
So what clothing should you pack for France? Here is a quick clothing checklist for France:
- 2-3 pairs of pants
- 2-3 sundresses
- 1 pair of jeans
- 1 pair of flats
- 1 pair of sneakers
- 1 pair of dress shoes
- 7 pairs of underwear
- 4-6 t-shirts
- 1-2 dressier shirts
- 5-6 pairs of socks
- 1 blazer or sport coat
- 1 tie
Seasonal Items to Pack for France
Sometimes, there are specific items you’ll need or want to pack based on specific seasonal activities in your France itinerary.
For example, maybe you’re planning on beach days along the French Riviera, going hiking in the summer, or skiing in the French Alps in winter. Regardless, here are recommendations for seasonal items or clothing you might need.
Winter Jacket
Most of France is fairly mild in winter. However, the northern and eastern regions can get bitter, as can the mountains in France. Plan for chillier temperatures by packing the Calvin Klein Women’s Chevron Jacket. For men,the Calvin Klein Super Shine Men’s Jacket is a similarly classic warm, yet chic top layer.
Closed-Toed Sandals
For the French, flip-flops are only reserved for the beach or the pool. So, try a closed-toed pair of sandals instead!
For women, I recommend the Athlefit Women’s Closed Toe Sandals. They provide great quality at a good price point. Men can find similar comfort and versatility with FLARUT Men’s Sport Sandals.
Shawl/Scarf
In most parts of France, chilly nights can follow the warmest days. A shawl-length scarf can protect you from that chill. It’s perfect because it won’t take up a ton of space or make you change your whole outfit!
I like the ANDANTINO 100% Mulberry Silk Long Scarf for its weight and drape. It comes in over fifty colors and patterns, too!
Hand and Body Warmers
You can dress well for the cold but still get surprisingly chilly after long periods outside. Hand and toe warmers will prevent this, extending your outdoor adventures!
The HotHands Toe, Hand, & Body Warmer Variety Pack is perfect since it includes different warmers for your hands, feet, and body. The warmers are easy to use and not too hot.
Touchscreen Gloves
France can get cold enough for gloves as early as September. Use a pair that has touchscreen capabilities so you don’t have to take them off every time you want to check your phone!
The Achiou Winter Gloves are classic enough to be the perfect wardrobe staple. They offer great grip while maintaining comfort.
Wool Socks
Warm socks will prevent cold feet from ruining your winter adventures when traveling in France!
The Buttons & Pleats Wool Socks are a great buy. They’re made of a thick merino wool blend, making them a great value. This wool blend also wicks moisture away, doing double duty to ensure your feet are comfortable!
Warm Hat
No, the French don’t wear berets much anymore! But you’ll still need a winter hat to keep you warm from October to April.
For women, FURTALK Cashmere Slouchy Beanies are a great choice. These soft, warm hats come in five colors. For men, check out the FURTALK Beanie Hat, which has an elastic fit and comes in 11 colors.
Other Seasonal Items to Pack for France
So what seasonal items should you pack for France? Here is a quick checklist for France:
- 1-2 swimsuits
- 1 beach coverup
- 1 ball cap or sunhat
- Flip-flops or water shoes
- 2 pairs of shorts
- Skiis
- Ski pants
- Waterproof jacket
- Goggles
- Ski helmet
- Long underwear
- Hiking boots
- Sports bra
📚Related Reading: Is Paris Safe for Travel Right Now?
France Packing Tips
Tip #1 – Consider Climates
France has five climate zones that range from Mediterranean to mountainous. Identify the climate of the French cities you’ll visit. Then, read up on what characterizes the climate at the time of year you’ll be there. Finally, adjust your packing list accordingly.
Tip #2 – Bring Multiple Payment Methods
Even after ten years in France, my American bank will still sometimes flag everyday transactions in France as potential fraud. Avoid the hassle by bringing a backup payment method. Also, note that smaller French businesses rarely accept American Express and Discover cards.
Tip #3 – Avoid Clichés
Some guides you read on dressing for France will include items like berets and scarves. Berets were popular in the mid-20th century when France became famous for them. Silk scarves around the neck were popular in the late 20th century. Both styles look slightly dated today; trust your style.
Tip #4 – Prioritize Comfort and Safety
Visitors to France can feel intimidated by the reputation French people have for style. The fact is that most locals wear comfortable and practical clothing. Don’t pack a suitcase full of high heels or multiple suits and ties for a leisure vacation.
Tip #5 – Create a Capsule Wardrobe
The French generally dress in stylish neutrals that they can mix and match. This is ideal for travelers, as you can pack fewer pieces and rotate them. This works even better if your hotel offers laundry services, so check before cutting down on clothing.
Tip #6 – Plan Your Footwear
Don’t throw all your shoes into your suitcase just because you’re unsure what you’ll want to wear. Identify your major activities (like what museums and French restaurants you’ll visit), then plan carefully based on that. Most trips won’t require more than three or four pairs: of flats, sneakers, dress shoes, and sandals if you’re going to the beach or pool.
Tip #7 – Minimize Purses
Purses are one of the biggest culprits in the space-stealing department. A foldable tote and cross-body bag will be sufficient for most trips. Otherwise, consider purses you can put in packing cubes or those you can place other items into in your suitcase.
Tip #8 – Consider Shipping Alternatives for Special Items
Consider using a service like SendMyBag to ship items for trips that require sporting equipment or other bulky luggage. For example, if you need to bring skiing equipment to the French Alps. Using a shipping service can often be cheaper and far easier than lugging it on the plane.
FAQs About Packing for France
What should I pack for summer in France?
Pack light but classic clothing like sundresses, linen pants, and t-shirts for summer in France. The French rarely wear sandals or shorts in cities or anywhere but the beach. However, you can stay cool with light materials.
What do I need to pack for a week in France?
For a week in France, pack a basic capsule wardrobe with t-shirts and pants for everyday wear and one or two dress items. Don’t forget toiletries and hygiene items, as well as socks and underwear. Three pairs of shoes—sneakers, flats, and dress shoes—are ideal.
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All of these France packing list items will help make your stay better no matter when you visit France. Compare this guide to my list of the best places to visit in France to help you narrow down your packing list!
