Pack, then take half of it out and other Paris, France Packing List Tips

Luggage And Bags: Let me start by saying that I am notorious for packing way more than I ever need. That said, I made a real effort to take only what would fit in my one and only suitcase. My daughter says you might have to pay extra if your bag weighs too much. I can't verify that, but my French wasn't good enough to argue with a French ticket agent.

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: We traveled in March and we knew the weather would be in the 40's most of the time. I really think you could take 2 pairs of black slacks (washable if possible), and a few tops or sweaters and do fine. I stuck to black, but took more than I needed. If it's cold, who knows what's under that coat. I threw if a few pashminas (my daughter swears I took a dozen!) to add some zip to my somber wardrobe. We noticed that most of the Parisian women had scarves all wrapped in different ways. I felt tres chic!! My daughter took a short black peajacket and I took a black raincoat with a zip- in lining and used it. We forgot gloves. A mistake. For the first time in my life I didn't take a dozen pairs of shoes. Whatever you take ,they better be comfortable. We found black shoes with rubber soles were perfect and weren't too sporty so we got by with 2 pairs of shoes for the whole trip. Don't forget a small, collapsible umbrella!

Toiletries & Medical Supplies: I understand that in order to bring prescription drugs into France it should be in the original pill bottle. I took one set in my tote and another set in my suitcase to be on the safe side.

Photo Equipment: My camera had a rechargable battery , and I just bought a disposable one as a back up. I think some cameras don't use anything but rechargable ones. In that case, spring for an adapter. If you have a digital make sure you take a backup memory card. You will want to take a zillion pictures in Paris. I am sure they can be purchased there but wouldn't want to have to try and find the right kind.


Miscellaneous: You might consider a smaller fold up type tote in case you have lovely items you buy that you can't squeeze into your suitcase. Also, I always try and take some zip type plastic bags for dirty clothes, and anything that might spill. If you forget something who cares! You're in Paris. Won't it be fun to shop for a replacement!

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