Paris - What To Pack - Clothing And Supplies Tips

Visiting Paris is on the lifetime bucket list for many people. Preparations for your trip should concentrate on making sure you pack wisely. France has a four-season climate so you'll want to pay close attention to the expected weather before you go. The right luggage, and attention to detail, are key.

Do as the locals do and pack lightly when visiting one of the many museums here. A small backpack is all you need when traveling through the Louvre or touring the Eiffel Tower. A zip tote on your shoulder should be enough to hold daily essentials like a water bottle, your camera, and all the maps you'll need. If you have small children, you may want to bring a larger tote bag. Bear in mind many items can be purchased in major museums, sometimes including diapers and wipes, but they may be more expensive. Batteries are one item that can be more much expensive in Paris. Also bear in mind that many older museums do not have elevators so you'll have to lug what you pack up stairs. The same is true for many Parisian metro stations. Escalators exist but they might be broken.

The weather in Paris can be very unpredictable. Rain is common during the winter and the summer. So you'll want to make sure you have a raincoat or umbrella on hand for sudden downpours. It can also get very hot during the summer here. Bring sunscreen, even in June. A light jacket is also recommended all year round as it can be cold during early autumn or late spring. Layering with sweaters can help if you are traveling here during the winter months. Bring a pair of very sturdy walking shoes as Paris is a large, sprawling city and you might not always find a handy bus or metro station. A pair of rain boots is also recommended, even during the summer when you might find the streets quite muddy.

Consider sticking to basic black. This is the color many Parisians prefer. Look for luggage that has wheels so you can easily pull it from one place to the next. Keep in mind that Paris has a different electrical system than the one you find in the United States. You will want to bring an adaptor for your electronic gear so you can recharge that iPhone. You should also bring any medications you might need. The local pharmacy might not stock the particular version of your daily pills. Keep medicine in a safe, dry space.