What Should You Pack for Paris?
Parisian weather can be quite variable, so it’s important to pack for layers! In spring and fall, a light jacket, sweaters, and long sleeve shirts are great for transitioning from cool mornings to warmer afternoons. Summers can get warm, but a light sweater is always handy for breezy evenings. Winters are chilly and rainy, so pack a warm coat, scarves, and gloves to stay cozy. Don’t forget a stylish rain jacket or umbrella for those rainy days!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting the Eiffel Tower, exploring the Louvre, strolling through the Luxembourg Gardens, enjoying a Seine River cruise, and experiencing the cafés and boutiques of Le Marais.
Dress Code
Paris is known for its chic, effortless style, so pack smart-casual outfits to blend in with the locals. Stylish jeans, dresses, and polished layers work well for most activities. If you plan to visit museums, cafés, or local landmarks, keep it comfortable but classy. For dining out or attending shows, consider a more sophisticated look, such as a nice dress or blazer. Parisian style leans towards neutral colors and well-fitted clothing, so pack your best pieces!
*This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.
Spring
45 – 65°F
(7 – 18°C
)
Summer
60 – 80°F
(16 – 27°C
)
Fall
50 – 65°F
(10 – 18°C
)
Winter
35 – 45°F
(2 – 7°C
)
Spring: Cool with light rain
Summer: Warm with occasional rain
Fall: Cool, crisp with frequent rain
Winter: Chilly, overcast, and sometimes frosty
Spring
2.3 inches of rain
Summer
2.4 inches of rain
Fall
2.6 inches of rain
Winter
2.1 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for warm summer days spent sightseeing and café hopping.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for cooler mornings or visits to museums—I loved having these for layering!
3. Sweaters: Ideal for layering during unpredictable weather in spring and fall.
4. Casual Jacket: A versatile option for cooler evenings or windy days.
5. Rain Jacket: Essential for those drizzly days—stylish and functional!
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable and stylish for walking around the city—perfect for visiting museums or dining out.
2. Leggings: Great for layering or staying cozy while exploring in the cooler months.
3. Shorts: Useful for the warm summer days spent at outdoor attractions.
4. Dresses: Ideal for looking chic and effortless while strolling through Parisian neighborhoods—pair with a light jacket for cooler evenings.
5. Skirt: A stylish option for casual days out or evening dinners.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring Paris on foot—I loved how mine carried me through long days of sightseeing!
2. Flats: A stylish option for evenings out or casual strolls through the city.
3. Boots: Perfect for fall and winter, keeping your feet warm and dry in the rain.
4. Hat: A chic addition to your outfit, especially for sunny days.
5. Sunglasses: Great for sunny days while exploring outdoor attractions.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for a weekend trip or keeping essentials handy during your travels.
2. Daypack: Ideal for carrying your gear while sightseeing around Paris.
3. Purse: A stylish yet practical purse for keeping your items secure while shopping or dining out.
4. Tote Bag: Useful for carrying any extra layers or souvenirs you might pick up along the way.
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
- Light layers: Parisian weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers is key to staying comfortable.
- Rain gear: A stylish raincoat or umbrella is a must for rainy days.
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so pack chic yet practical footwear.
- Dress smart-casual: Paris is stylish, so bring outfits that can be dressed up or down for various occasions.
Paris Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PARIS?
September is the best month to visit Paris. September’s also great because the weather is still warm, the summer crowds have thinned out, and outdoor cafes and gardens are delightful. You’ll enjoy a relaxed city vibe before fall arrives.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN PARIS?
Paris Fashion Week (February/September): A glamorous event showcasing international designers—ideal for fashion lovers and travelers seeking chic experiences.
Bastille Day (July): A national celebration with fireworks at the Eiffel Tower—perfect for families and groups.
Nuit Blanche (October): A night of contemporary art installations across the city, best enjoyed by art enthusiasts and couples.
Fête de la Musique (June): A free music festival where the streets come alive with performances—great for solo travelers and music lovers.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN PARIS?
Paris is packed with famous landmarks and hidden gems. Start with the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum for iconic experiences. One of my favorite places is Montmartre, where you can explore cobblestone streets and visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for stunning views. Don’t miss the Seine River for a scenic cruise, or the historic Le Marais district for boutique shopping and charming cafés. Stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens for a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT PARIS?
4-5 days are ideal for exploring Paris, but even a weekend will let you experience the major sights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit the Eiffel Tower, take a Seine River cruise, and explore Le Marais for dinner. On day two, visit the Louvre Museum, stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens, and finish with a Montmartre sunset.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, explore the Musée d’Orsay and the Latin Quarter. On day four, visit Notre-Dame Cathedral and take a day trip to Versailles. On day five, enjoy the boutiques of Le Marais and finish with a gourmet dinner in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, explore the Canal Saint-Martin and take a picnic by the water. On day seven, visit the modern art at the Centre Pompidou and end the day at a rooftop bar.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, explore the Château de Fontainebleau. Spend day nine at the Rodin Museum and relax in Parc Monceau. On day ten, take a bike ride through Bois de Boulogne and visit the Paris Catacombs.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, visit the Château de Chantilly and its beautiful grounds. Spend days twelve to fourteen visiting nearby regions like Champagne for wine tasting, or Normandy for historical sites.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN PARIS?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Dress
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR PARIS?
High heels: The cobblestone streets make walking in heels difficult.
Heavy winter coat: Paris winters are cool but rarely freezing, so lighter layers work best.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO PARIS ?
Airfare: $400-$1,200 depending on your departure city and season, with summer and holiday seasons being more expensive.
Accommodation: $150-$350 per night depending on location, with higher rates for central districts like Le Marais or Saint-Germain.
Transportation: $30-$80 for public transport; Paris’ Metro is affordable and easy to navigate.
Meals: $40-$100 per day depending on your dining choices, with lots of bistros and café options.
Activities: $30-$100 per day depending on whether you visit paid attractions like museums or enjoy free sights like parks and cathedrals.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN PARIS? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Paris. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common if the service was good. In taxis, rounding up the fare is also customary.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PARIS BEFORE I VISIT?
- Use public transport: The Metro is the best way to get around Paris.
- Learn a few phrases in French: While many speak English, locals appreciate the effort!
- Watch for pickpockets: Keep your valuables secure in crowded areas like the Metro or tourist spots.
- Eat like a local: Visit boulangeries for fresh pastries and try small, authentic restaurants outside the tourist areas.