Planning a trip to France? I’ve scoured dozens of travel forums such as Reddit to compile this essential list of items that experienced travelers wish they had packed.
These aren’t your obvious essentials—these are the game-changing items that can make the difference between a good trip and an exceptional one.
France Packing List: What You Are Forgetting
These 20 often-overlooked items will help you navigate France’s unique challenges like a seasoned traveler rather than a frustrated tourist.
1. Multi-Port International Adapter
French outlets use Type E plugs, and older buildings often have limited outlets.
A compact travel adapter with multiple USB ports lets you charge several devices simultaneously. I also recommend bringing a few of these.
2. Warm Layer/Light Jacket
We found massive weather differences across different regions in one trip to France.
From the Mediterranean warmth of Nice to the cooler evenings in Paris or the mountain chill in the Alps, a lightweight jacket is essential for your journey.
3. Pickpocket-Proof Backpack/Sling Bag
Tourist areas in Paris, Nice, and other French cities can be prime spots for pickpockets. Use an anti-theft cross-body sling bag or stylish little backpack.
Look for anti-theft features like slash-resistant straps and secure zippers, or simply add zipper clips to your current bag for extra security.
4. Universal Sink Stopper
To wash clothes easily in sinks during your French adventure.
Many French accommodations don’t have sink stoppers, making it impossible to properly wash delicate items or do quick laundry in your room.
5. A Stylish Hat
French people use a hat as a fashion statement, but it’s obviously also handy for summer days on the French Riviera.
A good hat serves dual purposes – fitting in with French fashion while providing essential sun protection during long days exploring outdoor markets, beaches, and historic sites.
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Book hotels to luxury resorts across France – discover ideal stays for every traveler on Booking.com!
🗺️ Plan activities
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🚗 Rent a car
Easily rent a car to explore villages, countryside regions & coastlines at your own pace with Discover Cars!
6. Comfy Thick-Soled Walking Shoes
French cities are filled with cobblestone streets, uneven surfaces, and plenty of hills.
Regular cheap sneakers won’t cut it – you need shoes with thick soles and good grip.
Also make sure that you have worn out any new shoes to prevent getting blisters.
7. Apple AirTag
Pop it into your backpack/luggage; if it gets stolen it’s really helpful to figure out where it might be.
With busy train stations, airports, and tourist areas in France, having a luggage tracking device can provide peace of mind and help locate lost items quickly.
8. Travel Laundry Kit
Useful for longer trips – laundromats are common or find accommodation with a washing machine.
Tumble dryers in accommodations are less common so make sure to have a portable clothesline.
Detergent sheets are space-saving and perfect for both machine washing and hand washing.
9. Compact Travel Umbrella OR Quality Rain Jacket
France gets more rain than many travelers expect, especially in northern regions like Paris and Normandy.
Choose either a quality rain jacket or a compact travel-sized umbrella that serves double duty for unexpected showers and portable shade on sunny days.
10. Personal Medication Kit
Over-the-counter medications are only available in pharmacies in France, and can be expensive.
Pack essentials like pain relievers, antacids, allergy medication, and any prescriptions you need.
11. French SIM Card or International Data Plan
Stay connected throughout France without worrying about roaming charges.
Essential for navigation, translation apps, restaurant reservations, and staying in touch with family. Purchase before your trip online (easiest option).
12. High-Capacity Power Bank
Long sightseeing days using phone navigation, taking photos, and looking up information can quickly drain your battery.
French attractions often have limited charging stations, so a reliable portable power bank keeps you connected throughout your explorations.
13. Versatile Scarf or Shawl
A lightweight scarf serves multiple purposes: covering shoulders when visiting French cathedrals, providing warmth on cool evenings, serving as a picnic blanket, or beach cover-up.
Wear it as a fashion accessory when exploring, then quickly repurpose it when needed elsewhere.
14. Travel Pack of Tissues
Small tissue packs are essential for public restrooms as they don’t always provide toilet paper in France.
15. Anti-Chafing Cream
Anti-chafing cream or balm prevents discomfort and skin irritation that comes from walking for hours exploring French cities and countryside.
Particularly useful during summer visits when you’ll be doing extensive walking in warm weather.
16. Compact Water Bottle (0.5L)
Stay hydrated without spending money on bottled water.
Choose a lightweight 0.5L bottle (insulated for summer trips) as larger bottles may not be allowed in French museums and galleries.
17. Smartphone Flash Drive
France’s photogenic landscapes, from lavender fields to Parisian architecture, will fill your phone storage quickly.
A flash drive compatible with your smartphone allows you to back up photos and free up space without relying on cloud uploads (or WIFI connection).
18. Casual Dressy Clothes
French people tend to dress up a bit more for restaurants, shops and museums.
Pack some casual dressy options beyond just shorts and t-shirts.
Think nice pants, blouses, or dresses and are appropriate for both sightseeing and dining out in France.
19. Lightweight Shopping/Beach Bag
A lightweight, packable tote makes French market shopping easier and doubles as an impromptu beach bag for the French Riviera.
Perfect for carrying fresh bread, cheese, and wine from local markets.
20. Quality Earplugs
Many accommodations in French cities are centrally located near lively cafés, restaurants, and bars.
Good earplugs can ensure a restful night’s sleep despite the evening café culture or early morning deliveries happening outside your window.
Final Thoughts on Your France Packing List: What You Might Be Forgetting
These often-overlooked essentials address France’s unique challenges of varied regional weather, cultural norms, and diverse landscapes from beaches to mountains.
Remember that being prepared doesn’t mean overpacking—it means packing smart with items that will solve real problems you’ll encounter.
Additional articles on France travel you might like:
Explore our blog for dozens more articles about traveling in France, from regional guides to insider tips from experienced travelers.
France Vacation Travel Planning Guide:
**🚑 Do I need travel insurance for France?
100% YES! — Visitors need travel insurance for emergencies. I recommend SafetyWing.
**🚙💨 How to get around whilst traveling in France?
By Car: Renting a car through DiscoverCars gives you the freedom to explore charming hilltop towns and vineyards at your own pace.
By Train: For travel between major cities, trains are efficient and affordable – book tickets through Omio.
**📲 Will my phone work in France?
Maybe — But you might come back to massive bill as it might be pricey. For the best experience, I recommend getting an SIM Card online before you travel.
**🏩 What’s the best way to book accommodation?
My go-to for hotels in France is Booking.com. However we often prefer a more authentic experience, and book apartments and homes through VRBO.
**✈️ What’s the best site to buy flights?
For finding cheap flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
