What Should You Pack for France?
France has varied weather, so it’s all about packing layers! Spring and fall can be unpredictable, so pack a sweater or light jacket. Summers in the south can get quite warm, so bring lightweight clothing. For winter, a warm coat, scarf, and gloves are essential, especially in Paris or the Alps. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes for all the sightseeing!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting the Eiffel Tower, exploring the French Riviera, touring châteaux in the Loire Valley, and wine tasting in Bordeaux.
Dress Code
France is known for its chic style, especially in cities like Paris. Opt for a polished, casual look with stylish but comfortable outfits. Locals tend to dress well even in casual settings, so pack smart-casual clothing. A nice dress for women is perfect for dinners, and tailored trousers or jeans work well during the day. In the south, beachwear is acceptable at the beach but not in town, so pack accordingly.
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Spring
45 – 65°F
(7 – 18°C
)
Summer
60 – 80°F
(16 – 27°C
)
Fall
50 – 70°F
(10 – 21°C
)
Winter
35 – 50°F
(1 – 10°C
)
Spring: Mild with occasional rain
Summer: Warm and sunny
Fall: Cooler, with crisp days and some rain
Winter: Chilly with rain, and snow in certain regions
Spring
2.0 inches of rain
Summer
1.6 inches of rain
Fall
2.4 inches of rain
Winter
2.7 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for sightseeing or days in the countryside—I loved having these for exploring Bordeaux!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for cooler evenings or Paris nights.
3. Sweaters: Necessary for layering in spring and fall—my favorite style for this was a light knit to pair with jeans!
4. Tank Tops: Perfect for warmer days in the south—layer with a jacket for a casual chic look.
5. Casual Jacket: Essential for cooler mornings or evening walks along the Seine.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Stylish and practical for both cities and rural areas—I really liked wearing mine in the Loire Valley for château tours.
2. Leggings: Perfect for layering or relaxed sightseeing.
3. Shorts: Ideal for the French Riviera during summer months.
4. Dresses: A great choice for evenings out—I like a style that’s flowy yet polished for French dinners.
5. Skirt: Versatile for pairing with tops, especially in Paris.
6. Jumpsuit: A chic and effortless look for exploring French towns.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for long days exploring cities—I always bring these for strolling along Parisian streets!
2. Flats: Stylish and practical for dinners or casual sightseeing.
3. Swimsuit: Pack for the French Riviera or any spa days—these really come in handy!
4. Sandals: Great for warmer regions and beach towns like Nice.
5. Sunglasses: Perfect for sunny days exploring outdoor markets and parks.
6. Beach Coverup: Ideal for beach days along the Côte d’Azur.
7. Pajamas: Don’t forget comfortable sleepwear for those relaxing hotel evenings.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for city hopping between Paris, Lyon, and the French Riviera.
2. Daypack: Essential for day trips, especially when exploring cities like Paris.
3. Purse: A chic yet practical purse is perfect for both day outings and evening dinners.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Bring layers: French weather can vary by region and season, so layers are key.
- Stylish clothing: France is fashion-forward, so even casual looks should be polished.
- Comfortable shoes: Whether strolling through Paris or touring vineyards, you’ll need good walking shoes.
France Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT FRANCE?
May and September are the best months to visit France. These months have pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and are perfect for outdoor activities. May is great because you can enjoy blooming gardens and sunny days without the peak tourist rush!
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN FRANCE?
Cannes Film Festival (May): A glamorous international event in the French Riviera, perfect for couples or solo travelers.
Bastille Day (July 14): A national celebration with fireworks, parades, and festivities throughout the country, great for families.
Nice Carnival (February): A colorful parade with music and dancers in the south of France, ideal for solo travelers or families.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN FRANCE?
France offers a variety of destinations, from iconic Paris to the lavender fields of Provence. One of my favorite spots is Mont Saint-Michel, an island commune with stunning medieval architecture. Don’t miss the vineyards of Bordeaux, the charming villages of the Loire Valley, or the glamorous beaches of the French Riviera. The Alps offer great skiing in winter, while Normandy is rich in history.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT FRANCE?
You need at least 7-10 days to get a good feel of France, but a two-week trip allows you to explore both the cities and the countryside.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, explore Paris by visiting the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre. Spend day two strolling through Montmartre and visiting Sacré-Cœur before heading to the Champs-Élysées for shopping.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the Palace of Versailles. On day four, take a day trip to Giverny to see Monet’s Gardens. Spend day five touring the wineries of Bordeaux or the castles of the Loire Valley.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, head to Provence to see the lavender fields or explore the French Riviera. On day seven, visit the Roman ruins in Nîmes or explore the medieval streets of Avignon.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, explore the beaches of Nice. On day nine, visit the Mont Saint-Michel. Spend day ten exploring Normandy’s D-Day beaches and learning about WWII history.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, head to the Alsace region for wine tasting and picturesque villages. On day twelve, visit Lyon for its culinary delights. Spend the last two days exploring the Dordogne region or relaxing in the countryside.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN FRANCE?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Dress
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR FRANCE?
Heavy winter coat: Unless you’re visiting the Alps in winter, a light jacket will suffice.
High heels: Cobblestone streets in many towns make high heels impractical.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO FRANCE ?
Airfare: $500 – $1,200 depending on your starting point and the time of year. Prices tend to be higher in summer and around major holidays.
Accommodation: $150 – $400 per night depending on the city. Paris is the most expensive.
Transportation: $50 – $200 depending on whether you’re using public transport or renting a car for countryside exploration.
Meals: $40 – $100 per day depending on whether you dine in casual cafes or fine restaurants.
Activities: $20 – $80 per day depending on whether you’re visiting museums, castles, or taking tours.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN FRANCE? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is not mandatory in France as service is included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% at restaurants is appreciated. For taxis, round up to the nearest euro.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT FRANCE BEFORE I VISIT?
- Always greet people with “Bonjour” before starting a conversation. It’s polite and expected.
- Avoid visiting Paris in August: Many locals are on vacation, and some shops and restaurants close.
- Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame.