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Home » Europe » France » Paris

Paris Packing List • 22 Items you NEED (2024)?

Visions of the Eiffel Tower, Versailles, delectable cheese, fresh baguettes, and chocolate are dancing in your head  – inspiring your decision to whisk off to Paris and experience that certain je ne sais quoi .

As a backpacker, off-the-beaten-track travel and typical outdoor wear – shorts, t-shirts and hiker shoes – seem like the norm. Paris, however, is a different story. Perhaps you’re unsure – or even intimidated – about fitting into this fashion mecca as a budget traveler.

Fear not! We have your ultimate Paris survival guide with specifics tips on what to pack for Paris for being practical and stylish – while fitting everything you need into a carry-on size backpack. Sounds good, doesn’t it?

Let’s get started, oui ?

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The Ultimate Paris Packing List

What to pack for paris checklist: personal gear, the basic stuff to pack for paris, faq on what to pack for paris, final thoughts on what to pack for paris.

Nomatic Travel Bag

• Capacity > 30L
• Price > $289.99

Nomatic Navigator Carry On

• Capacity > 37L
• Price > $549.99

GoPro Hero 11

• Resolution > 5k
• Price > $349.99

Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket

• Price > $600

Insurance From World Nomads

• Price > Click For a Quote

There really isn’t a need to over-pack for Paris. The chances are, you will be staying for only a few days and mostly eating out. Therefore, the clothes in your pack plus a change will almost in itself be enough. But let’s take a closer look at what to bring to Paris.

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Best Luggage For Paris:  AER Travel Pack 3

You don’t need to pack too much stuff for a Paris trip, just the essentials. There are no weather extremities and the chances are you are not headed to Paris on a camping trip. Therefore this AER backpack is fully featured, big enough to hold an extended weekend of clothing, and tough enough to last years of travel abuse. 

I have taken the AER Travel Pack 3 on multiple trips and since then it has risen in the ranks as my go-to travel backpack. 

Check out our  AER Travel Pack 3  review to learn more.

Best Suitcase For Paris:  Nomatic Carry-On Pro

Are backpacks not your thing? That’s ok. Our friends at Nomatic are back again with a great alternative to their badass Travel Bag; the Nomatic Carry-On Pro. 

This suitcase is ultra-durable, sleek, and comes with a handy tech compartment for transporting your laptop and other electronic bits. Nomatic has been an industry leader when it comes to travel gear and that reputation is reflected in the quality build design and functionality of the Carry-On Pro suitcase. These things fit all you need for a Paris trip but are a bit of a pain in the ass to carry on and off the metro.

Check out our  Nomatic Carry-On Pro review  to learn more about this epic suitcase. 

Best Camera For Paris:  GoPro Hero9 Black

For most of us, our smartphones now feature cameras with stunning photo capabilities.

But… if you are an aspiring photographer who wants to take next-level photos and video beyond iPhone selfies, I recommend going with an action camera like the  GoPro Hero9 Black .

It does deliver pro-quality video and gives you a bunch of different angle options and shooting speeds to work with for photos (including a selfie mode).

Think of a camera purchase like this as a long-term investment that will have you capturing epic shots well beyond your time exploring here. If you are looking for something cheaper for video specifically, check out these epic  GoPro Alternatives .

Best Sim For Paris – HolaFly eSim

The good news about Paris is that there is extensive 4g and 5g Internet coverage, taxi apps, and food delivery apps. Phone connectivity is good if you have a working sim – but, your native SIM card will most probably not work and so you will not be able to access any of this online goodness until you rectify that particular situation.

You can waste time hanging around phone shops queuing to get a plastic sim or you can simply install an eSim onto your phone before you leave home. You just access the HolaFly site, choose the relevant package, download it, and off you go – you are online the moment you land at the airport.

eSims are easier to set up and better for the environment than plastic sims. The downside is that not all phones are eSim-ready.

Packing Cubes For Paris – Wandrd Packing Cubes

In case you have never used them, packing cubes are little compression cubes that allow you to neatly pack clothes in order to help facilitate better packing. They allow you to pack more stuff, and keep it all better organised, without taking up too much space.

For the longest time, I thought that packing cubes were a superfluous indulgence, but boy was I wrong. Now I never travel without a few.

These ones from WANDRD are of fantastic quality and excellent value for money. Get them on your Paris packing list now!

Paris does experience seasons. Spring and Autumn are generally pleasant, summer often sees a stifling heatwave and winter can inspire some serious cold snaps. Still, I expect that you will have something in your wardrobe for all eventualities so deciding what to wear in Paris shouldn’t be too tough.

However, do bear in mind that Parisians dress quite smartly so cargo shorts mixed with socks and sandals will earn you some of that world-famous French snootiness.

Paris Checklist

If you’re still wondering what to bring to Paris then these top picks are a good starting point.

Best Walking Shoes For Paris – Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero

Visitors to Paris have a tendency to underestimate the amount of walking that is part of the day-to-day Paris experience. But the city is huge and the main attractions are very spread out. Whilst public transport is good, there is still a lot of walking to be done. In fact, exploring the Louvre alone clocks up a fair few miles. Besides, Paris is simply one of the cities best explored on foot.

I admit that most shoes that are also good for hiking are not the most attractive pieces of footwear and bearing in mind that Paris is still a fashion capital, that kind of matters. But they are some of the most comfortable walking shoes and deliver good ankle support for a long day of walking about town. These ones are not too garish and will look good in chic Paris.

Check out the  women’s Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero . 

Best Jacket For Paris:  Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody

Depending on when you’re visiting Paris , you’ll be in need of a warm, but light jacket. Granted if you visit Paris in the summer you probably won’t need to bring this. But from October temperatures plummet in the city and you’ll be happy to have this ultra-warm down jacket with you. 

It weighs just under a pound and provides an excellent weight-to-warmth ratio. If you don’t go for one of the super bright colors, it is pretty stylish and city-worthy also, and ideal for those rainy days!

If visiting Paris in the winter, then consider something even thicker.

Check out our  best travel jackets  article for more inspiration. 

Best Daypack For Paris –  Osprey Daylite Plus

The days spent exploring Paris can be long. Therefore taking a good daypack like this small backpack is often a good shout. They are great for carrying water, hats, and jackets and for packing sandwiches for lunch. We love Osprey products and this daypack is our personal pick if you are packing for Paris.

The Osprey Daylite Plus has a mesh-covered panel to keep your back cool and fresh by minimizing contact with the back of the pack itself and allowing air to get between you and the pack.

Check out our   full review of the Osprey Daylite plus  for more details.

Additionally, you can attach it to other Osprey packs in case you want to add more capacity and carry just one piece of luggage… but the reviews on this feature are mixed.

Travel First Aid Kit

You don’t need to tote around half a pharmacy, but a well-stocked first aid kit should be in all our backpacks. Stuff happens on the road and it’s inconvenient and embarrassing when you can’t manage small situations like a cut finger or hangover migraine.

You can tuck this lifesaver away in a forgotten pocket – and it’ll be there when you need it.

Tip: Add a few bits and pieces to the first aid kit after you purchase it, like extra headache medicine, any personal meds you need (like allergy pills), whatever you take to calm your stomach, and a few more plasters.

Travel Insurance From World Nomads

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Money Belt – By Pacsafe

Whilst Paris is not particularly dangerous, petty crime and pickpocketing do still happen and tourists are sometimes targeted; therefore it’s important to travel safely .

Therefore it is always a good idea to use a money belt to hide your cash just in case something does go wrong. We recommend trying not to carry too much cash.

As well as this, take care on the Metro, in busy tourist spots, and also take good care of your bags.

Water bottle –  Hydroflask Vacuum Bottle 32 oz. 

Packing a reusable water bottle is probably the best thing you can personally do to combat single-use plastic bottle use whilst traveling. There is simply zero need to buy plastic water bottles.

In theory, tap water in Paris is fine to drink. However, I spent a lot of time in the city and found it does not agree with me personally at all. What I do is buy a big water bottle from Lidl (under $1) and fill my reusable water bottle each morning before I head out.

We love the Hydroflask Vacum Bottle for its quality and because it keeps cold water  cold  for many hours and vice versa for hot beverages. This bottle is the ideal reusable water bottle to get not just for your Paris trip but for daily use. Please don’t be that person buying plastic water bottles. We are all judging you…especially mother earth. 

If you go with the Hydroflask, you’ll probably never need to buy another water bottle again. 

On top of the essential items listed above, here is an additional suggested checklist of what to pack for a Paris trip;

• 1-2 pairs of comfortable pants/jeans
• 1-2 pairs of shorts (summer/late spring)
• A few pairs of socks
• (Sexy) underwear x 2/3
• Ladies: a few dresses, pants, outfits, or desired lady apparel for a night on the town.
• Dudes: A few collard shirts or something halfway decent for a night on the town.
• Smartphone with a good camera for photos if you are not bringing an actual camera
• Portable power bank  for charging your phone on the go
• Phone charger
• Copy of your passport just in case
• Cash (not too much, there are ATM machines everywhere!)
• Packable Towel
• Wear comfortable walking shoes

Do people wear backpacks in Paris?

Absolutely! You will see lots of locals walking around their daily travels with backpacks on. It’s the ideal way to carry everything you need for a day of activities, just be careful on the metro.

Should I bring cash to Paris?

It is always advisable to have money in a variety of forms when travelling. Whilst card is accepted in most places, cash can sometimes be useful for tipping etc. There are plenty of ATMs available throughout Paris.

Should I bring a water bottle to Paris?

In France, like much of Europe, drinks can be expensive, so it is always recommended to bring a reusable water bottle if you’d like to save money. It’s also much better for the planet – a win-win!

What to wear in Paris to not look like a tourist?

In case you hadn’t heard, Paris is a fashionable place! Try and stick to neutral colours with an elegant look; think tailored denim, a trench coat, a white shirt, and a black blazer. A strategically chosen accessory wouldn’t go amiss either – but only one at a time.

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Ok, friends – there you have it! Your complete Paris packing list with a helpful checklist, including our breakdown of the seasons and how to pack for each. We hope you’ve found our packing tips for women and men helpful, along with our advice on what not to pack and what bag to carry all the stuff you do pack. Remember to check the weather forecast as that will help you pack light with exactly the items that you need.

Focus on packing smart and packing light – with a stylish edge. Remember that just a few essentials, mixed and matched correctly, will get you a long way. And remember those things that will keep you comfortable and safe!

So, now all you have left is to get out there and have an epic time – au revoir !

Check out our EPIC TRAVEL ADVICE for more travel tips for broke backpackers.

Updated by Megan Christopher January 2023.

Mathilde Magnier

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The Ultimate Paris Packing List

A crisp sweater and trench coat? Oui! Striped T-shirt and ballet flats? Bien sur! Parisian men and women rely heavily on these classics, and so should you when packing for the City of Light . Follow the cardinal rule of dressing like a French person—quality over quantity, less is more—and not only will you fit in, you'll also have extra room in your suitcase to bring home finds from Le Bon Marche in the Marais or the famous Parisian flea markets. Below you'll find our top tips on what to bring for Paris and what to wear there, including fail-safe outfits to take you from a café au lait and croissant to an evening boat ride on the River Seine to catch a prime view of the Eiffel Tower sparkling on the hour.

See recent posts by Rachel Klein

THE LUGGAGE

When it comes to packing, it’s all about the right bag for the right job. If you’ve been making do with a beat up old duffle or an ancient carry-on with a sticky wheel, you’ll be   amazed at how a new bag makes travel so effortless. Every smart traveler should have three key pieces of luggage: a weekender bag for quickie getaways, a carry-on suitcase for week-long trips, and a larger suitcase for longer stays or   travelers that overdo it on souvenirs. (Guilty!) For a weekender, we’re fans of the   Away Everywhere   bag. This little dynamo has separate pockets for your laptop, pens, reading materials, and phone, plus a waterproof umbrella compartment—genius when you visit a rainy destination. For a one-week trip, it’s hard to beat  Away’s Carry-On —it changed the suitcase game with an ejectable battery for phone charging, smooth spinner wheels, and a lifetime warranty. And for any trips lasting two weeks or longer, go for the   Travelpro Platinum Elite . There’s a reason flight crews swear by this luggage brand. This checked bag has gliding spinner wheels, a telescoped handle, and two-inches of zippered expansion.   Consider yourself packed.

THE PACKING GEAR

Every packing hurdle is made easier with this trio of travel gear. Got a hotel room or cruise ship cabin with little counter space? This hanging toiletry bag will give you elbow room at the sink plus provide dedicated pockets for all your creams, gels, and sprays. Hang it on the bathroom door or over the towel rack to keep everything upright, protected, and in place. If you have an issue with overpacking — who doesn’t? — then packing cubes are a game-changer. This four-piece set will keep all your things, from underpants to electronics, organized and condensed, saving you precious suitcase space. And rather than depend on the freebie toiletries at the hotel (that harsh hotel soap will zap all the moisture from your skin), bring your own tried-and-true toiletries in these TSA-approved squeeze bottles.

THE IN-FLIGHT ESSENTIALS 

Only travel amateurs get on a flight without bringing the essentials. A sleep mask not only blocks out cabin lights—it provides the privacy you need to get some Zs. The Trtl travel pillow is a travel editors’ favorite for keeping your neck and head comfortable as you nod off. And Comrad compression socks’ moisture-wicking technology keeps feet comfy and protects you from deep vein thrombosis. (Yikes!) Fly like a pro with these packing essentials.

PARIS OUTFIT INSPIRATION

Looking polished and pulled together no matter what is de rigueur . Parisians dress presentably—and often fashionably—to go to the supermarket, and you’ll want to follow suit. Look like you made an effort, whether you’re heading to Telescope cafe (near Palais Royal ) for an aeropress coffee or exploring the magical little rooms of Shakespeare and Company Bookstore . Locals choose well-fitting (often impeccably so), high-quality clothing, and avoid overly manufactured looks. Instead of over-accessorizing, Parisians tend to let one bold item make the statement, like a persimmon purse with an all-black outfit. Paris isn’t the place for matchy-matchy outfits. Mixing it up with an unexpected detail, like poppy-red pumps , a subtle jacquard print , or playful peekaboo hearts , is just more interesting for everyone.

French men and women are brilliant at layering—think cashmere and tailored pants under crisp blazers and overcoats. Also, they’re not shy to wear navy and black, a pairing that Americans tend to avoid for fear of “clashing.” Parisian men aren’t afraid to wear bold colors, and, more often than not, spend time cultivating a fully finished look. Extras such as a brimmed hat, scarf, and cufflinks are added to everyday wear for a trip to the boulangerie or out shopping rather than reserved exclusively for an evening out.

Women’s Outfits

Older woman paris day outfit, shop the look.

Ribbed Turtleneck

Black Trouser

Blanket Scarf

Younger Woman Paris Day Outfit

Eyeshadow Palette

Sweater Dress

Blending Brush

Canvas Tote

Loafer Flat

Older women’s paris night outfit.

Black Denim Jeggings

Eau de Parfum

Leather Crossbody Wallet

Suede Red Heel

Luxury dinner in paris younger woman night outfit.

Kiss Lash Couture Triple Push Up

Black Strappy Textured Glitter Bodycon Dress

Dose of Colora Matte Liquid Lipstick

Faux Suede Trench Coat

Vince Camuto Knee High Boot

Men’s outfits, men’s paris day outfit.

Corduroy Jacket

Black Backpack

Older Men’s Paris Day Outfit

Younger Man Paris Night Time

Water Repellant Down Vest

Black Chino Pant

Crewneck Sweatshirt

Older Men Paris Night Outfit

Cashmere Scarf

RFID Blocking Wallet

THE 3 PAIRS OF SHOES YOU’LL NEED FOR EXPLORING PARIS

That old line about not wearing sneakers in Europe if you don’t want to look like a tourist is outdated advice. Comfy footwear is completely in vogue, thanks to brands like Saint Laurent and Versace turning out luxe versions in their collections. Pack a pair that adds pizazz to a neutral outfit (think glittery or metallic sneakers) or a classic pair of Chucks or Vans . Ballet flats or smoking slippers are a must for ladies, and guys and gals alike will want to bring leather boots that can be dressed up or down.

Women’s Shoes

Men’s Shoes

What to Pack for Paris

Click items to view travel editor-approved options

Clothing cont'd

• Lightweight Raincoat

Shoes & Accessories

• Walking shoes

Accessories cont'd

• Fold-down tote
• Hair accessories
• Dental floss
• Conditioner

Toiletries cont.

• Moisturizer
• Contact lenses
• Contact lens solution
• Shaving cream
• Brush and comb
• Hair styling tools
• Tampons and pads
• Hand sanitizer
• Pain relievers
• Stain remover
• Portable charger
• Tablet or E-reader
• Device chargers
• Power adaptors
• Memory card
• Selfie stick

Other Essentials

• Medical insurance card
• Water bottle (empty)
• Travel blanket or wrap
• Travel pillow
• Laundry bag

Helpful Printouts

• Emergency contacts
• Boarding pass
• Hotel and car rental reservations
• Maps and directions
• Bank and credit card contact info
• Copies of passport and ID

WHAT NOT TO PACK FOR PARIS

Although Parisians have embraced athleisurewear to a degree, this isn’t New York or L.A.—you’ll look and feel out place if you spend the day in your Lulus. So unless you’re planning to work out, leave gym sneakers and attire at home (plus, some hotels now have loaner workout gear as an amenity). Pack toiletries you absolutely need, but then hit a French pharmacy to browse beautifully packaged products that aren’t available in the U.S. Keep your shoe wardrobe to three pairs, if possible, and unless you’re prepared to handle cobblestone streets in high heels, leave the stilettos at home.

THE *ONE THING* WTP EDITORS ALWAYS PACK FOR PARIS

In Paris, living out of a suitcase is no excuse for looking disheveled in crinkled, static-clingy, or less-than-fresh clothing. This on-the-go laundry kit from The Laundress is a godsend for travelers trying to fit in among impeccably pulled-together Parisians. The kit’s sprays, towelettes, and spot-treatment soap nix odors, static cling, wrinkles, and stains—even a big splash of Beaujolais you dropped on your slacks. —WTP Editors

Buy on Shopbop

PARIS’ WEATHER AND SEASONS

Note: Below is a packing forecast, not a traditional forecast. A packing forecast focuses on how cold it’s likely to be in the early mornings and evenings based on historical data. We recommend using this together with a traditional forecast as you get closer to your departure date. This data comes from our friends at  Weather Underground .

• Plan for day temps between 30° F and 39° F
• Temps will drop near 24° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.03 inches of precipitation in January

What to Wear in Paris in January: January is typically ultra-gray, and while snow is rare, it does get bitterly cold. Plan on a puffer coat, boots, and a warm hat.

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• Plan for day temps between 34°F and 45° F
• Temps will drop near 28° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.03 inches of precipitation in February

What to Wear in Paris in February: February is as raw as January, and you’ll need warm outerwear, like a wool cocoon coat and rubber-soled boots.

• Plan for day temps between 30° F and 45° F
• Temps will drop near 23° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.08 inches of precipitation in March

What to Wear in Paris in March: March is damp and still fairly cold. In addition to a heavy pea coat and thick jeans, do as the Parisians do and wrap up in a big cozy scarf.

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• Plan for day temps between 42° F and 56° F
• Temps will drop near 36° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.04 inches of precipitation in April  

What to Wear in Paris in April: April in Paris means rain, though it does warm up quite a bit from March. Plan to wear lighter-weight wool clothes underneath a raincoat with a liner—and don’t forget an umbrella.

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• Plan for day temps between 48° F and 61° F
• Temps will drop near 37° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.06 inches of precipitation in May

What to Wear in Paris in May: By the end of May, Paris is in full bloom. It might be chilly at night in the beginning of the month, so you definitely want to bring a lightweight jacket (go for denim), but chances are you’ll be able to skip tights if you’re wearing a skirt.

Buy on Born Shoes

• Plan for day temps between 57° F and 66° F
• Temps will drop near 46° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.05 inches of precipitation in June

What to Wear in Paris in June: June is one of the loveliest months in Paris. It isn’t hot, and while most days are warm enough to go out without a jacket, you might want to bring one for evening.

Buy on Eddier Bauer

• Plan for day temps between 63° F and 73° F
• Temps will drop near 55° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.02 inches of precipitation in July

What to Wear in Paris in July: It’s full-on summer by July, so throw on a breezy dress and espadrilles, and don’t forget a hat and sunscreen.

• Plan for day temps between 60° F and 67° F
• Temps will drop near 45° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.04 inches of precipitation in August  

What to Wear in Paris in August: Paris sizzles in August. Lightweight cotton frocks, strappy sandals, and tanks are all you’ll need (though a cardigan or sweater in your bag for chilly museums and restaurants is a good idea).

• Plan for day temps between 50° F and 62° F
• Expect 0.02 inches of precipitation in September

What to Wear in Paris in September: September can be as hot as August, but it does start to cool off, so you’ll need a jacket during the day. Transition from summer clothes to pants and a long-sleeved shirt.

• Plan for day temps between 40° F and 57° F
• Temps will drop near 35°F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.01 inches of precipitation in October

What to Wear in Paris in October: October can get downright chilly and a mid-weight coat, such as a leather jacket, is essential. Wear a fleecy sweatshirt or thin sweater underneath. If you’re wearing a skirt or dress, you’ll need tights.

• Plan for day temps between 34° F and 46° F
• Temps will drop near 26° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.06 inches of precipitation in November

What to Wear in Paris in November: Winter kicks off in November, requiring a warm coat and heavier wool sweaters. Women may even want to bring an extra pair of tights to wear under jeans.

• Plan for day temps between 31° F and 44° F
• Temps will drop near 27° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.04 inches of precipitation in December

What to Wear in Paris in December: Break out a long wool coat, boots, and your warmest winter clothes for holiday season in Paris. It doesn’t typically snow (and if it does, it usually melts by the next day), so it’s OK to leave the heavy-duty winter boots at home.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PACKING FOR PARIS

What should i wear in paris for dinner.

It depends where you’re going. You might not want to wear jeans and a sweater to Le Jules Verne or Le Grand Vefour (err on the side of dressy there), but most bistros, brasseries, and cafes are totally casual. If you’re having Neapolitan pies and wine at Pizzeria Popolare , scallops and beef tartare at Vaganende Brasserie , or Japanese tapas and ramen at Ito Izakaya (and we recommend that you do), whatever you wore during the day will likely be fine for dinner. Getting dressed for an evening out in Paris can be as simple as switching shoes and handbags and adding lipstick for women.

Are leggings/jeans okay to wear in Paris?

Jeans, yes; leggings, not so much—unless you dress them up with, say, boots and a chic oversized sweater. It’s rare to see Parisian women walking around in yoga pants or leggings and sneakers like they just came from the gym (even if they have).

What do locals wear in Paris?

Women wear jeans a lot, but also favor casual skirts and dresses. Parisian men, however, definitely step it up in comparison to their American counterparts. You’ll see men in trousers, button-downs with cufflinks, blazers, scarves, and hats.

What do I wear in Paris if it rains?

A trench coat is ideal as an outer layer with a lightweight but warm sweater underneath. We also recommend a raincoat by Danish brand, Rains —their flattering styles for men and women are waterproof, breathable, and available in solid neutrals or pretty pastels.

I’m visiting Paris in the winter; what is the best stylish travel jacket to bundle up?

Go for a sporty look in a short puffer (we love the Petra Puffer by Mackage ) or a full parka with faux fur-lined hood (like Schott’s water-resistant down parka ). It can get very cold in Paris in the winter, but temperatures typically stay above freezing and it doesn’t snow that often, so you won’t need heavy-duty winter boots or an ankle-length down coat.

FIVE FOOLPROOF OUTFITS FOR YOUR TRIP TO PARIS

1. what to wear museum-hopping to the louvre, the musee d’orsay, or musee rodin.

Choose an outfit that’s easy to wear but polished, like a flowy skirt and blouse. (You don’t want to look like a slouch walking through gorgeous, grand buildings!) For footwear, sleek sneakers or shoes with sturdy soles are a smart pick, and don’t forget to throw a wrap or sweater in your bag.

Start with lightweight, stretchy jeans with a tailored cut. Add a classic crewneck tee (may we recommend in navy and white stripes?) and a printed bandana for a dash of Parisian flair.

2. What to wear on a night out in Paris, maybe swinging by the Moulin Rouge

Most bistros, cafes, and brasseries are casual enough for jeans, but for a night out that includes the theater or a cabaret, Parisians step it up. Go for something fun and colorful, like a sleeveless light turtleneck tucked into a rainbow striped midi skirt.

Parisian clubs and cabarets require a look that’s dressy, but never stuffy or overdone. Swap out traditional pleated slacks for a modern, slim-cut version that hits the ankle, and formal dress shirts for a whimsical button-down.

3. What to wear shopping in Paris, hitting Printemps or Galeries Lafayette Paris

It’s fine to hit the mall in lounge pants and a hoodie, but shopping in Paris is definitely a dressier affair. We aren’t talking a sheath dress and heels here, just something smart-casual, similar to an outfit you might wear to brunch, like white jeans and a chambray shirt.

For guys, fitted chinos with a hint of stretch and a bomber jacket is a no-fail look for a shopping outing in Paris. Classic canvas kicks and polarized shades keep things cool and comfy.

4. What to wear sightseeing in Paris, visiting Palais Garnier, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower

Go for something sporty, or for something similar to what you might wear on a movie date, like jeans and a sweater coat with metallic sneakers.

Be comfortable, but look smart. As long as everything’s neat, even a hoodie and old-school sneakers will work.

5. What to wear to Disneyland Paris with the family

Parisians dress equally well at the opera as they do at an amusement park, so don’t skimp on style when you’re visiting Walt Disney’s Parisian outpost. (And if you’re traveling with kids, no worries. Everything here is machine washable when that Mickey sundae ends up in your lap!)

Take jeans-and-a-tee to the next level with a corduroy-lined, workwear-inspired jacket with zippered and interior pockets for smartphone-safekeeping on rides (or extra space to hold all the kids’ doodads and toys while they ride around!).

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Paris Packing List: What to Bring to France

Published June 11, 2023

Written by:

Stacey Ebert

Stacey Ebert is a freelance writer, blogger, educator, yogi and traveler who has adventured through over 50 countries. After a...

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

The Tortuga Promise

At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

France invites visitors into a world of sophistication, snowy and sun-filled retreats, and, of course, wine and cheese. Situated in western Europe, this country boasts a culture all its own. So you’re going to need a packing list for Paris and for the rest of France.

“I’m going to France,” means something different to each and every traveler. Perhaps it’s your first experience abroad after university. Maybe you’re headed to the City of Love to eat your weight in macaroons, crepes, and croissants. Or, perhaps you’re taking on the slopes at Chamonix, tasting sparkling goodness in Champagne, studying history at Normandy, or having a picnic on the grounds of the Eiffel Tower. Whatever you fancy, France can provide.

Paris was one of my first stops in Europe. I remember the feeling of landing at Charles de Gaulle Airport and heading out into the cultured mecca of Paris. I can still see the baguette and cheese in my hand, the entertaining buskers in the city square, and the glittering strip of lights along the Champs-Elysees.

We sunned ourselves on the sandy beaches of Cannes, ate more crepes than we knew what to do with, and spent one sunny afternoon strolling the rocky shores of Nice’s Cote d’Azur. Regardless of the reasons you’re headed to France, your voyage begins before you get that passport stamped. Dream up your favorite sort of experience, research city and countryside excursions, figure out what to pack, and get ready for adventure.

Choosing Luggage for Paris

Like most of Europe, France doesn’t lend itself to wheeled luggage. Expect narrow and uneven sidewalks, quaint medieval cobble stone, and lots of steps.

Avoid that hassle by carrying a travel backpack . A good backpack will be organized like a suitcase but carry as comfortably as a hiking pack. Opt for a carry-on-sized bag with a sleek, low-profile design that fits the vibe of French culture.

We recommend our Travel Backpack for any trip to Europe.

Clothes: One Bag Packing List for France

France has a casual but classy vibe in most places while the larger cities feel a bit more upscale. Unless you’re planning for a very special occasion, there’s no need to pack your fanciest clothing. Most locals dress well and you’ll rarely see someone who looks as if they’ve just come from their workout when they’re headed out for the day.

Remember that layers are your friends. Sandals or solid walking shoes are always a good choice when traveling.

• Light sweater or blazer
• 4-7 pair of  socks 
• 4-7 pair  underwear
• 2-3 jeans or  pants for nicer outfits ; or, 1-2 skirts or dresses
• 3-5 t-shirts for layering
• 2 long-sleeve outer layer tops like sweaters

Bring everything you need without checking a bag.

• Carry-On-Sized
• Easy to pack
• Comfortable to carry
• Built to last

Weather: Packing List for France in All Seasons

Packing for France can get tricky. Are you headed during winter, spring, summer, or fall? Do you need layers, sunscreen, a raincoat, a hat, closed-toed shoes, or all of the above? Are you skiing, sunbathing, sightseeing, wine tasting, or a mixture of it all?

Pack for three seasons, no matter when you are going, because the weather is unpredictable. For Paris, bring something warm, a solid pair of shoes, a waterproof outer layer , and a light scarf for all seasons.

Check the specific regions to which you’re traveling. Temperatures will differ from cities to mountains to shoreline, but averages are as follows: 

• Spring (Late March-June): 40-70° Fahrenheit (4-21° Celcius)
• Summer (Late June-September): 55-75° Fahrenheit (13-24° Celcius)
• Autumn (Late September-December): 45-70° Fahrenheit (7-21° Celcius)
• Winter (Late December-March): 35-45° Fahrenheit (2-7° Celcius)

Depending on when you’re traveling to France, add the following to your packing list.

• Rain jacket or water-repellant outer layer
• Sturdy, closed-toed shoes (consider hiking shoes over sneakers)
• One extra pair of shoes
• Extra layers
• Warm jacket with a hood (if traveling in winter and especially if staying on the mountains)
• Bathing suit and beach cover up

What to Pack for Paris: The Essentials

Whenever you set off on the trip of a lifetime, there are a few things you can’t forget. Your passport, travel documentation, medications, and tech are the hardest things to replace.

• Wallet:  ID, passport, and an extra copy of front page of your passport
• Travel documents:  Including travel insurance and visa documents if you need them
• Medications:  Daily, important, and allergy medications
• Tech:  Chargers and converters

Pack a Personal Item

If you’re flying to France, you’ll want to think carefully about packing a personal item. On your flight, you can keep your personal item under the seat in front of you . After you land, you’ll carry this bag on your daily adventures.

Keep in mind the necessities you might want on hand for the flight, as well as immediately upon arrival, and don’t forget to check the weather at your destination.

What to Pack in a Personal Item or Daypack

• Mini first aid kit (including sea/car sickness tablets if needed)
• Liquids bag (follow 3-1-1 guidelines)
• Change of clothes
• Gum or mints
• Unscented lotion, essential oils
• Antibacterial or baby wipes (a must for Paris ventures – limited public toilet options available)
• Fuzzy socks or flip-flops (for the flight)
• Scarf, pashmina, or travel blanket
• Mini flash light
• Feminine hygiene products
• Contact lenses & travel size solution, or glasses
• Lacrosse or tennis ball (eases back pain and tight muscles)

Toiletries: Less is More

When traveling by air, always keep in mind the  TSA 3-1-1 rule as you  pack your toiletries . Less is always more. You can purchase anything else you need once you’re in France. Buying local is always a good idea. Keep an eye on all the new products on the market and perhaps consider experimenting with dry toiletries to make room in your quart-sized ziplock bag.

The basics include:

• Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Travel size shampoo, conditioner, and body soap
• Razor and grooming kit
• Travel towel

Tech for Traveling in France

If you’re coming from outside of Europe you will most likely need an adapter to plug into outlets and maybe a power convertor, too. Double-check to be certain you have all of your cords and other assorted goodies you need to connect. Plan for phone connectivity too.

• Power adapter
• Necessary converters
• Tablet, phone, computer, and necessary chargers
• Portable charger and cords
• Load your phone with travel apps 
• Perhaps a camera (and camera bag), lens, batteries (2), memory cards (2), and chargers
• External hard drive to back up your memories
• GPS/personal wifi hotspot if your phone won’t suffice

France Bucket List

They don’t call it the City of Light for nothing. Paris is a city unlike any other. There’s sophisticated fashion, art as far as the eyes can see, delectable cuisine of all levels, and a way of life that’s unique to Paris.

What To Do in Paris

If you’re flying, Paris is probably your first stop. Although your entire journey might not be set in the French capital, while you’re here, take in the sights, sounds, and sweets of the city.

• Eiffel Tower
• River cruises on the Seine
• Arc de Triomphe
• Champs-Elysees
• Sacre-Coeur Basilica
• The Lou v re
• Paris Catacombs
• Shop for wines at  Caves Auge
• Shop for bargains at  Les Puces de Saint-Ouen
• Shop for macaroons at  Laduree  and  Pierre Herme

What to Do in the Rest of France

France is full of neighborhoods, cities, and regions each with a unique flair. To get to know the region, do your research ahead of time, chat with locals upon arrival, and leave room for spontaneity. Whether you’re in search of the bubbly, action on the mountain, bargains at the market or a beach excursion after your city ventures, France is ready for you. Just make sure you have a packing list for France ready before your trip .

• Trip to  Champagne  (45 minutes outside of Paris)
• Palace of Versailles
• Chamonix – Mont – Blanc
• Saint-Tropez
• Loire Valley

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Stacey Ebert is a freelance writer, blogger, educator, yogi and traveler who has adventured through over 50 countries. After a 10-month honeymoon around the world, she started writing about adventure, journey and perspective changing life shifts.

She’s a badass at finding travel discounts, drilling down the details and asking the hard questions. Her work has been featured in both travel and educational publications.

Read more from Stacey

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26 Top Paris Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

My husband and I absolutely love Paris. We honeymooned there and took our son when he was only 10 months old. It’s our favorite city in the whole world because of the art museums, exquisite Michelin-rated food, amazing architecture, rich culture, and CHOCOLATE!

Many travelers were asking us what to bring to Paris, so we wrote this detailed checklist. We also include  what to wear in Paris , what NOT to take, and important FAQs about traveling there. Enjoy the city of love!

What to Pack for Paris – 26 Essentials

1. neck wallet.

Paris is notorious for its pickpockets that target crowded areas, metros, and tourist sights. While you’re exploring the trendy Le Marais neighborhood or the Champes Elysées — thieves will do anything to distract you. This wearable neck wallet holds your passport, phone, cash, credit cards, and important travel docs, making it next to impossible for thieves to get your valuables. You can wear it cross-body or leave it concealed under your clothing when you want to be in “stealth mode.”

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

Traversing Paris for a non-local is confusing and GPS is a must. After getting in a somewhat sticky situation one night with a dead cell phone, I’ll never travel without this little charger in my bag. It’s tiny and uses regular USB cables so you can charge devices on-the-go instead of having to return to your accommodations to plug them in. As a traveler in a foreign country, it’s a must.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

If I’d had a VPN when I went to Paris recently, I could have saved myself from having my credit card number stolen while using (what I thought) was secure Wi-Fi at our Airbnb. Cyberattacks and online theft are only on the rise, and 2023 marked a record-breaking year with 234 million victims, according to the Identity Theft Resource Center .

A good VPN, like NordVPN, allows you to add a layer of encryption to your internet connection, making it impossible for hackers to get sensitive info like passwords, credit card numbers, social security numbers, etc. It also allows you to access any censored websites that may not work in France. You don’t want to be unable to stream on YouTube or Netflix, right? An affordable price and one-click activation from any device make a VPN a no-brainer for any travel!

View NordVPN.com Plans ➜

4. Power Adapter for France

The French power outlets are quite different from those in the US, so you’ll need an adapter. It’s best to choose a high-quality one to avoid the headache of frying your devices or not being able to charge them at all. This one is awesome because it works in 100+ different countries — so whether you go to Paris, London, Brazil, Fiji, or Australia , you won’t need to buy another adapter – and it also has built-in device protection via a safety fuse, keeping your gadgets safe even during power surges.

5. Jet Lag Relief

Long flights to Europe, plenty of shuffling from place to place, and time changes really tend to mess with your sleep schedule and health. These jet lag relief tablets can help prevent and treat jet lag so that you don’t waste valuable vacation time trying to recover from the flight over. They effectively fight exhaustion with natural botanicals. We love them!

6. Travel Insurance for France

Travel Insurance is mandatory for France if you’re traveling on a Visa and highly recommended for all other travelers. Keep in mind that your domestic provider does not cover you abroad in most cases (including Medicare and Medicaid), and an international hospital bill would be difficult to recover from. Our friend broke her arm while hiking on vacation. Luckily, she had insured her trip, so she wasn’t left paying out-of-pocket for extensive medical costs. It also protects you against theft, baggage loss, delays, and rental issues (which we’ve had our fair share of in Paris).

We like to use Faye because they add a human touch that is missing from most providers. My favorite perk is that they’ve reimbursed me quickly through their mobile app – whereas most providers make it nearly impossible to get reimbursed despite all of the paperwork and roadblocks. Their customer service reps really care and even checked in on us after helping us find a local clinic. Plus, they have a “cancel for any reason” add-on if you include it within 15 days of paying for your trip. It’s a small cost of your overall trip and too important to overlook.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Windproof Travel Umbrella

It rains between 6-9 days in Paris per month — every month — and often without any warning. Although these sudden downpours can feel romantic in the city of love, getting soaked is uncomfortable no matter where you are! We got caught off-guard in a downpour and ended up purchasing an extremely overpriced crappy umbrella from a street vendor. Don’t waste time running back to your hotel for dry clothes. Having a compact, high-quality umbrella like this one is a must for keeping dry in this gorgeous city.

8. Hanging Toiletry Bag

French bathrooms are notorious for skimping on storage. And while les châteaux are huge, les salles de bain are modest! With limited counter space, you will be thriving if you can make your life as vertically-friendly as possible. Thus, this hanging toiletry bag is indispensable. It has plenty of room and can hold dozens of products (large bottles and TSA-approved sizes alike). The clear pockets allow you to see everything without rummaging to find what you’re looking for.

Not to mention, it will make packing a breeze since you don’t have to worry about unpacking in the first place. The 360-swivel hook stows away and basically screams “hang me anywhere!” And you’ll have a built-in shelf that can pop-up at a moment’s notice, which means you don’t have to deal with endless plastic sacks for your toiletries or cluttered countertops. Voila!

9. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

Pickpocketing is common in Paris. Keep your bags secure with TSA-approved locks. A couple of sets are ideal to secure each of your bags, including your checked suitcases, carry-on, and even a daybag. They are extremely durable and even have a lifetime replacement warranty . You don’t want anyone to be able to get into your bags, but you also don’t want to be worried all the time either. Locks give you peace of mind knowing that your belongings are safe so that you can go out and enjoy Paris fully.

10. Luggage Straps

I wouldn’t venture to Paris without attaching these luggage straps to my checked bags and carry-ons. In Europe, you are regularly hopping between airports, train stations, bus stations, metros, and more. Your bag goes through a lot of rough handling and you don’t want to risk it exploding open, dumping all of your belongings onto the street. These belts will secure everything and adjust to fit nearly any case. They take the pressure off your zippers using a heavy-duty metal clasp that centralizes the weight.

With more versatility than meets the eye – you can also tether multiple bags together, create a make-shift handle if one breaks, help your suitcase stand out amongst the sprawling sea of copy-and-paste black bags at arrivals, and resolve any potential baggage loss since there’s a built-in contact tag (which could be especially useful at Charles De Gaulle [CDG] where bags regularly go missing… Fair warning).

11. Paris eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

With an eSIM, there’s no need for a physical SIM. I’ve personally struggled with physical SIM cards in France, going from store to store with no one able to help me get online because my smartphone wasn’t “compatible.” I WISH I had known about this digital option sooner to simply activate it before I departed and have immediate use of my cell phone upon arrival.

If you’ve never heard of eSIMs, that’s because it’s a fairly new technology and revolutionizing the industry. Our favorite benefits of this modern service include: A safer connection that hackers can’t prey on, cheaper roaming rates and huge long-term savings, the ability to swiftly switch networks if you country-hop, less plastic waste or fussing with a physical SIM that is easily damaged, and you can get online with a few clicks. As global travelers who always look for the easier and cheaper way to do things, we’ll never go back to the archaic format. We recommend you do the same and upgrade your approach!

Pick a data plan at Saily.com ➜

12. Packing Cubes

Leave behind the days of rummaging through your suitcase to find that long-lost sock or concert t-shirt from the 90s that you can’t sleep without. Packing cubes make life so much easier while traveling. You’ll know precisely which “cube” your belongings are in without having to rummage around — and you can effortlessly place them into hotel drawers without even having to unpack them. This brand is our go-to because it comes with an index card on the back so you can write EXACTLY what is in each cube, even when you’re jetlagged.

Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO.”

Or view on Amazon.com ➜

13. Pea Coat

The daily temperature in Paris averages around 41°F/5°C in the winter and 65°F/18°C in the summer. Therefore, no matter what time of year you go, you’ll want a nice jacket. Pea coats add an air of sophistication to your look and are very ‘French Classic.’   They’ve also outlasted the centuries for a reason – they’re universally chic! This one has the perfect blend of warmth and style without breaking the bank.

14. Natural Hangover Relief

Paris boasts some intimate watering holes like the ‘Experimental Cocktail Club’ and ‘Gravity Bar.’ You can expect to try a l’aperitif (pre-dinner drink) or sip on French wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux. As a preventative measure, pack some anti-hangover pills. Time on vacation is precious, and you don’t want to miss out by suffering from a headache or sleeping in all morning. These natural supplements will keep you feeling fabuleux so you can skip the fatigue!

15. Tickets to Top Paris Attractions

Unfortunately, many of the best things to see and do in Paris also have painfully long lines. Instead, use Get Your Guide – an amazing, affordable platform that allows you to book tickets and short tours in advance so you don’t have to wait!

So if you’re planning on visiting the Louvre , going to the summit of the Eiffel Tower , exploring Versailles , cruising the River Seine at twilight , or simply looking for something interesting to do in Paris, then check them out! You’ll enjoy the small thrill of sauntering past hundreds of regretful people waiting in line for hours as you casually walk right in the front door.

See all Paris attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

16. Activated Charcoal (Food Poisoning Detox)

French food is divine. The meals are often farm-to-table, and the layered flavors will be an explosion for your taste buds. That said, certain dishes can be rather unconventional for your belly (such as snails, raw veal, and frog legs). Even if you don’t feel adventurous, it’s worth having activated charcoal on hand in case you end up with an upset tummy or full-on food poisoning. Don’t spend your vacay on the potty! Trust me, we know from experience.

17. Stylish Anti-Theft Daybag

I often found myself leaving our hotel in the morning and not returning until late in the evening, so I had to carry a day’s worth of accumulated belongings. You’ll want a sturdy bag for your shopping purchases, water bottle, camera, phone, portable charger, rain jacket, umbrella, and anything else you may need while exploring. Made for theft-prevention, the 100% leather backpack has the zipper facing toward your back so it’s next to impossible for someone to steal your things. Never before has anti-theft looked so chic!

18. Water Bottle with Built-in Filter

While most of the water in Paris is potable, it never pays to take chances. The French tap is known for having high minerality and an almost salty flavor, but you can purify your own water and improve the taste with a self-filtering water bottle. This Brita one gives us peace of mind when we have to get water from a less trustworthy source. It also eliminates chlorine taste and prevents you from spending money on countless plastic bottles that are harmful to the environment.

19. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Whenever you travel overseas and find yourself wandering around a beautiful but unknown city like Paris, a travel towel is a handy addition to any daypack. It’s lightweight, super absorbent, and can be great for impromptu picnics, day trips, or outdoor yoga sessions. Parisian hotels can also be kind of seedy (even the pricey ones!) and it’s nice to have your own clean, quick-dry towel in case of an emergency.

20. Comfortable, Attractive Flats

You will do a lot of walking in Paris, probably miles a day, and a comfortable pair of ballet flats is a staple for any femme fatale . Wearing sneakers or “tennis shoes” is a dead giveaway that you’re a tourist, so opt for something more elegant but still easy on the toes. These shoes offer a nice balance and are comfortable enough to walk around in all day.

21. Pashmina Scarf/ Wrap

Pashmina scarves are one of the best accessories to travel with. They’re beautiful, multi-purpose, and easy to pack. I use mine to keep warm while enjoying outdoor cafes on chilly Parisian nights. It can also double as a modesty wrap which is especially important if you will be visiting conservative churches (many sacred sites will not permit you entry without covered arms). This one is ultra-soft and pleasantly affordable.

22. Reusable Wine Bags (Leak-Proof)

Between the Cointreau, Champagne, Rosé, and other specialty French wine – you will probably want to bring some home! These reusable wine bags are an impeccable decision because you can pack bottles in your checked bag without worrying about leaks or breakage in transit. Even if you don’t drink alcohol, these are useful for things like authentic French perfumes, cooking oils, skincare, glass goods, or delicate treats.

23. Gorgeous Jumpsuit

Paris is the land of fashion week and luxury couture, but Parisian style is all about looking elegant yet laid-back at the same time. This jumpsuit combines the modesty and sensuality of French style without trying too hard. You’ll feel sophisticated but comfy as you explore the arrondissements (neighborhoods) and stroll along the cobblestone. It’s one of my favorite pieces because it’s relaxed and simply timeless.

24. Deodorant Wipes

Summers in Paris are romantic, but some days, they can also be hot and muggy with temps exceeding 95° Fahrenheit. Combine this with standing in long lines and buildings literally made of gold reflecting direct sunlight back at you (aka Versailles), and you’ve got a reason to sweat. Instead of coping with the heat, try these lovely deodorant wipes. They leave you smelling fresh, feeling clean, and protect the skin’s natural barrier for a more balanced pH. And they’re pocket-sized for on-the-go use.

25. Cooling Towels

Europeans have a hilarious disbelief in air conditioning and only about 5% of the buildings in Paris have A/C. Spare yourself from becoming hot and sweaty in the humid summers, especially during long days of standing in lines or walking miles between museums. These magical little towels are 100% non-toxic and become 20-30 degrees colder than the outside temperature. You just wrap it around your neck, and you will feel instant relief. It’s saved me and my kids from meltdowns on numerous occasions!

26. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

When in Paris, you can’t help but feel the irresistible pull to do some shopping! Pack this “just in case” bag for those unplanned purchases; it fits perfectly under your plane seat and counts as your personal item bag for the flight home. Treat yourself and your friends to some stellar local goods like real parfum (perfume), wine, cognac, handmade art, faience pottery, fashion, as well as foods like riz du carnage (rice), fois gras (duck liver), violet confit (flower jam), truffles (chocolate), and lavender tea.

Other Paris Packing List Items Not to Forget

• Motion sickness patches
• Small notebook (journal)
• Paris guidebook
• Selfie stick
• Solid shampoo
• Contact solution
• Facial cleansing wipes
• Steripod toothbrush cover
• Dental floss
• Loofah glove
• Mini hairbrush
• Deodorant: Women's
• Deodorant: Men's
• Feminine products
• Hand sanitizer
• Compression flight socks
• Vitamins: Women's
• Vitamins: Men's
• Reusable shopping tote
• Stain removing supplies
• Plastic packing bags
• Travel blanket
• Travel pillow
• Small flashlight
• Noise-canceling headphones
• Headphone splitter
• France power adapter
• TSA-approved travel bottles
• Small pair of binoculars
• Kindle cover

What should I wear in Paris?

Even though Paris is known worldwide as a fashion capital, don’t be intimidated while packing for your trip. The typical dress code in Paris is classy, sleek, and color neutral. Bring staple items like dark-wash jeans, neutral breezy scarves, and comfortable but attractive walking shoes.

Women in Paris dress noticeably nicer than you might find in other big European cities. As a visitor, keep it classy by wearing dark, tailored, ankle-length pants, a sleek blouse, and comfortable ankle boots or neutral-colored sneakers (sneakers are very trendy right now among Parisians). Plan to dress in layers and bring along a lightweight jacket or scarf. In the summer, try pairing white sneakers with a sundress. In the winter, keep it simple with black and neutral colors, and add pops of color with your accessories. What should MEN wear in Paris? – (Click to expand) Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Packing for the Seasons in Paris

Seasons in Paris are similar to those in much of Europe. Temperate seasons and a fair amount of rain year-round mean that rain gear is important and that each season has its own particular allure.

SPRING – March, April, and May

Spring is one of the two rainiest seasons in Paris, with about 9 days/month of rainy weather.

Bring a cute raincoat and closed-toed shoes for wet days, and fitted pants or jeans and tops for everyday wear. Bring a cardigan or two and a shawl/scarf to give you an extra layer in case you get chilly. Temperatures average from 60°F to 70°F (16°C to 21°C).

SUMMER – June, July, and August

For shoes , the key is to prioritize comfort without sacrificing fashion. Cute flats and sandals are always a good idea, and maybe a pair of comfortable, easy-to-walk-in heels if you plan to go to any fancier places. A rain jacket is also a good idea. Temperatures average from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C).

FALL – September, October, and November

A cute rain-coat is essential, as are closed-toed shoes for walking on chillier days. Most people don’t yet need a hat , gloves , or a scarf , but if you’re not accustomed to the chill you may want to pack some just in case. It’s wise to bring a light jacket or a nice peacoat , as there will definitely be times when you’ll want the warmth. Temperatures average from 55°F to 65°F (13°C to 18°C).

WINTER – December, January, and February

Winter is very wet in Paris, tied with spring for the rainiest season. Bring your classiest raincoat , a windproof travel umbrella , and muted boots and shoes .

A hat , gloves , a scarf , and warmer clothing are important. Nice pants and slacks , quality leggings , sweater dresses , cardigans , and long-sleeved shirts will help keep you presentable and comfortable. Temperatures average from 45°F to 55°F (7°C to 13°C).

Museum hopping ​ – The Musée du Louvre and Musée d’Orsay are just two of many museums in Paris you won’t want to miss out on. Museums everywhere are usually freezing, so bring a sweater or cardigan to wear over your clothing, and consider wearing closed-toed shoes. Some museums will not allow visitors to bring in bulky handbags, so go for a small purse instead.

Visiting cafes, markets, and restaurants ​ – Paris is home to thousands of cute cafes, fresh farmer’s markets, and charming restaurants. Stylish but practical clothing will suit you well for this. Think striped shirts, dark pants, and flats.

Going out at night ​ – The nightlife of Paris includes everything from intimate wine bars to the most upscale clubs in the world. It depends on where you are going for the night, but you can’t go wrong with a black dress, minimal makeup, and heels. For men, think nice button-downs and tailored slacks. Always check the dress code before getting ready! A tie and jacket may be required in some places.

What NOT to Bring to Paris

1. don’t pack heavy items.

It’s worth remembering that you’ll be doing a lot of walking, and even small bags can start to feel too heavy very quickly when you have to lug them everywhere. I don’t recommend bringing heavy books, heavy equipment (computers, etc.), or even excessively heavy shoes – trust me, your back will thank you for following my advice.

2. DON’T BRING too many clothes and shoes

You only need about a week’s worth of outfits and two pairs of shoes. Most of the places that you’ll be staying will have somewhere where you can either wash your clothes or have them washed. This does cost about $5 a load, but doing three loads of laundry is still less expensive than paying for even one checked bag.

3. DON’T TAKE unseasonable clothing

It just adds a lot of weight and bulk to a suitcase that’s likely already going to have limited space. Look up the weather forecast for the locations you’ll be staying before you go, and pack a couple of extra layering items if you think they’re needed.

4. DON’T BRING excessive amounts of cash

ATMs are widely available and tend to have pretty good exchange rates (bring your ATM card and let your bank know you’re traveling before you leave), and carrying too much cash is asking for trouble. It’s easy to secure excess cash in a safe in your room, or you can simply resupply with cash in smaller increments.

5. DON’T PACK skimpy clothes or beachwear

Clothing such as cut-off jean shorts and skimpy tank tops aren’t appropriate if you want to fit in with the locals. The only place they’re acceptable in Europe is at the beach, and there aren’t any near Paris. Feel free to bring appropriate attire for swimming if your hotel has a pool, but don’t plan to wear it out of the hotel.

6. DON’T PACK camouflage clothing

It’s a cultural norm here in many parts of the States, but camo gear and clothing is reserved for military personnel in most of Europe, and you certainly don’t want to look like a member of that group.

7. DON’T TAKE anything that screams "Hapless Tourist!"

A good example of this is a fanny pack. You may not look like a local, but you certainly don’t want to advertise far and wide that you’re a tourist. Doing so makes you look inexperienced, and again, marks you for potential pickpocketing. It’s not as common, but it still happens, and it’s not a chance worth taking.

8. DON’T BRING expensive items or nice jewelry

It’s tempting to bring valuables, but it’s never worth the risk. Bringing these kinds of items makes you a more likely target for theft, and you could just as easily lose them yourself by mistake. It happens, and it’s better to lose cheaper versions of your favorite items than it is to lose your expensive jewelry collection.

FAQs about traveling to Paris

1. about how much money will i need daily to enjoy paris.

That depends on what you plan on doing while you’re in town since some hobbies are more expensive than others. Even so, a basic daily budget of $80 per day should cover meals, metro tickets, some attractions, and a night in a hostel dorm. Travelers who want their own room should allot about $60 extra per day, just to cover the change in accommodation costs. Of course, splitting the price of a private room with a traveling companion or two can help your budget in this regard. It’s also worth looking into reliable vacation rentals to cut down on accommodation costs. But, if you’ve got the money, Paris is definitely a place with plenty of spending options.

2. Do I need to tip servers in restaurants in Paris?

Leaving the coins you’re brought back as change is the standard reward for good service. However, it’s perfectly acceptable to leave nothing at all since waiters’ salaries are already factored into the overall cost of dining out in Europe.

Even so, failing to leave at least a 5% tip in a very fancy restaurant might indicate that you’re cheap.

3. What are some good day trips from Paris?

Versailles is the best known day trip from Paris but nearby Giverny and Chartres are also nice places to visit if you have the time. Another good thing is that all of these towns can be reached using public transportation so you don’t have to rent a car to get to them.

4. Is the “Paris Pass” or the “Paris Museum Pass” worth it?

The only way to tell for certain is to do the math yourself. However, if you are a marathon traveler who can easily see multiple attractions in a day without collapsing from exhaustion, one or both of these passes might be a good deal.

On the other hand, if you are someone who likes to meander and only needs to see one or two iconic places per day, the passes might end up costing you money instead.

5. What is the best way to get around Paris?

The subway is usually an effective means of transportation but it’s a bit pricey. You can still save some money by purchasing your metro tickets in sets of 10 instead of buying them individually. Walking is another good way to get around and it is certainly cheaper than taking the metro.

6. How can I avoid lines at popular Parisian attractions?

Buy your tickets online and in advance. Sometimes doing this will even get you small monetary discounts as well. Check out Get Your Guide for the best tours in the city and exceptional customer support. You can cancel any tour up to 24-hours beforehand and read verified reviews to ensure you’re not caught up in a lackluster experience.

7. What is the best time of year to visit?

The weather in Paris is at its warmest during the summer months but the city is extremely crowded from June to August when the tourist hordes descend in full force, causing the prices for attractions and accommodations to shoot upward. Even the locals leave town at this point if they can. Paris sees far fewer crowds and more affordable prices during the spring and autumn months but the weather can be temperamental at times. Spring in particular is known for its wet weather. So perhaps the most reliably pleasant time to visit Paris would be in either September or October.

8. How can I save money while traveling in Paris?

There are plenty of ways! You can:

• Take advantage of free admission days at some of the museums.
• Cook your own meals or at least nosh on takeout since in Europe you pay extra for just sitting down and eating in restaurants. If you do eat out, try to aim for lunchtime instead of dinner, since prices tend to be lower at lunch.
• Eat the free hotel/hostel breakfast if one is available. It might not be the stuff dreams are made of but it will fill you up enough to get you to dinner.
• Buy carnet books rather than purchase subway rides individually.
• Walk between attractions rather than use the subway

9. Which areas of the city are best avoided by tourists?

Most of the main tourist areas are fine but there are some neighborhoods on the fringes that aren’t a great place for outsiders to stay. In some instances, this is because they’re a long way from the action and there isn’t much to see nearby. Other arrondissements (districts) may be a little on the “dodgy” side for tourists – I encourage you to do your own research on this subject before setting out to ensure that you are making decisions with up-to-date information.

Some places to avoid include the areas around these metro stops: La Courneuve, Mantes-la-Jolie, Les Halles, Pigalle, Place Blanche, Strasbourg St-Denis, Gare du Nord, Gare de l’Est, Barbès-Rochechouart, and Château Rouge.

However, traveling through most of the subway stations listed here should be fine as long as you’re not attempting to pass through them unreasonably late at night. Other places to avoid after dark include the Champ de Mars, the Belleville neighborhood, the Seine Banks, the Bois de Boulogne Park, the Saint Blaise area, and portions of the Rue Saint-Denis. Travelers will also want to watch out for pickpockets near popular tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower.

Don’t get the wrong idea – Paris is much like any large city: there are pockets that any outsider should avoid, but the majority of the city is welcoming and fun to explore.

10. What are my options for getting from the airports to the city center?

From Charles De Galle (CDG) and Orly (ORY) airports, the quickest and easiest way to get into Paris is to take the RER subway trains. You’ll just need to keep an eye on your bags because pickpocketing can be a problem on these routes. While numerous buses travel from these airports into Paris, using them can be a time-consuming process. However, those traveling from Beauvais (BVA) airport will have to use a bus to get into town if they don’t want to pay for a taxi since there isn’t a convenient train station nearby.

11. Is it safe for women to travel alone in Paris?

Yes! For the most part and in most areas, it’s perfectly safe. It’s never wise for women (or any tourist, really…) to walk around alone at night, especially in any less-than-nice neighborhoods, but basic safety precautions will protect you just fine during the day. Don’t carry loads of cash, try to blend in when possible, and avoid taking unnecessary risks. Try to plan your transportation in advance and be sure about where you’re going – you’ll look like you know what you’re doing and feel much more confident.

Lyric Fergusson

Pack for Paris: Essentials for a Perfect Trip (2024)

Paris Packing: Essentials for your trip. Is your Paris trip just around the corner, and you’re unsure what to pack? Preparing for international travel can be stressful, especially if you don’t travel abroad all too often. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

As a travel planning expert and Paris local, I’ve created a comprehensive Paris Packing List with all the essential items you’ll need for your trip.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

If you purchase through links on this site, I may earn – at no cost to you – a small commission. This helps me cover my costs and keep my website running. Thank you so much for your support 🙂   Learn more

However, this post is not about style , it is about  essential travel items  that are either unarguably necessary in Paris, or will simply make your trip to France’s capital easier. 

I listed all the Paris travel essentials below, but of course, not all will apply to you. Just go through the list of Paris travel checklists and make sure you’ve got everything you need for your trip.

Is this your first trip to Paris?  You will be certainly interested in these articles, too:

• What NOT to do in Paris -23 (costly) Paris Mistakes you need to avoid!
• Scams in Paris! How to avoid the most common cons
• Surprising Budget Tips for your next Trip to Paris

What to Pack for Paris? Here’s My Paris Packing List!

Most items that make it on your Paris packing list are personal, of course. But there are a few things to bring to Paris that everyone should consider.

Either because they are Paris travel essentials that are required or because they make your Paris day-to-day travel experience smoother. 

Here’s a short list but of Paris Packing essentials. For more info and explanations, scroll down.

Paris Packing Checklist – Essentials

Technical Items to Pack for Paris

Quick List : Portable Charger • Headphones • Converter • Travel Adapter

Traveling without technical equipment is very unusual nowadays. If it exists at all! You will, of course, pack your mobile devices and all sorts of cables. Maybe also a camera, a blow-dryer, or a hair straightener.

To keep your technical things organized, get a cable organizer . It’s a real game changer when protecting your equipment. You also may want to get and learn how to use an international e-sim so that you can use mobile data on your phone while abroad.

Make sure to keep those on your radar, too:

Portable charger/ Powerbank 

In many cities, USB ports to charge your devices are easily available:  in restaurants, café’s, even in buses.

Well, Paris is not one of them. Buses are catching up, but it is still difficult to charge your devices outside.

Hence, it can be really stressful to see your phone battery slowly dying without a plug to recharge it. 

Especially if you use your phone as a camera to snap beautiful Paris pictures. Your battery will decrease rapidly, and you’ll hardly make it through the day without recharging your phone. 

To be on the safe side, have a portable battery ready in your bag.

Order from Amazon

→ see all offers for portable chargers on Amazon

Personally, I am using this portable charger from Anker as my travel power bank. It’s small enough to fit in any pocket, it’s light, and has enough power to charge my iPhone 13 up a couple of times.

→ Get these headphones for good value for money

Since tourists can travel to Paris again, many visitors ask if audio guides provide headphones or do they need to bring their own? It certainly depends on the provider, but you need to ask yourself if you really want to use the ones they give out for free?

I don’t even want to start talking about hygiene. The biggest pain point is their horrible quality.

You’ll hear mostly your environment and not too much of the audio guide story that you’re trying to listen to. Plus, often the headphones are not working correctly, do not fit your ear, and fall off all 20 seconds.

You are better off adding your own personal headphones to your Paris packing list!

→ buy headphones easy on Amazon

Personally, I love my   Apple AirPods , but they won’t help much when packing for Paris. When buying headphones to bring to Paris, make sure that they have an  aux-in plug .

Most audio guide devices are not equipped for Bluetooth connections, so you have to get back to good old cable headphones. 

Travel Adapter – Paris Packing Essentials

→ Get  this adapter  for the best value for money

A travel adapter is one of the most important things to take to Paris. Simply, because if you are not using  Type C  plugs in your home country, you won’t be able to use the French power sockets to charge your devices. 

If you’d ask me which travel adapter to get, I’d recommend  this one . I have had it since 2017, and it still works perfectly ever since.

Order on Amazon

→ Order your travel adapter with USB today on Amazon

IMPORTANT:  You can use this travel adapter only for devices like phones, cameras, laptops, etc. Everything that is not dual voltage requires a Voltage Converter. 

Travel Voltage Converter

→ Get  this Voltage Converter  for the best value for money

You might wonder now if you need to add a Voltage Converter to your list of things to bring to Paris. European devices run on 220V, American and Canadian on 110V. Most modern devices like phones and tablets are  dual voltage devices, and  you can use them everywhere. 

However, if you want to use your blow-dryer, shaver, or hair straightener tool in Paris and that runs on 110V (like many in Canada and the US do), then you need a  voltage converter.

→ Buy your converter on Amazon

The converters are not the cheapest and truth be told, you still risk either ruining your hair dryer, blowing a fuse, or causing a power cut in the entire hotel.

It’s best if you simply pack a blow-dryer that isn’t equipped for dual voltage. Honestly, buying a  dual voltage hairdryer  is way cheaper than using a converter and risking an outage. 

Travel and Paris must-haves

Quick Links:   Travel Cubes  •  Headphones  •  Down Jacket  •  Small Umbrella

I remember the days when traveling and packing for Paris meant dragging bulky and unhandy suitcases around.

There was nothing practical about packing and the invention of a rain jacket, that you could squeeze in a bag and strap around your waist, was revolutionary. 

But we’re in 2023 now, and whether you are  packing for a last-minute trip  or planning longer ahead, there are plenty of convenient items on the market to ease your traveler’s life. Here are a few.

Packing Cubes

→Order practical  packing cubes on Amazon

Packing cubes  are nothing else than little square bags that are fitting perfectly in your luggage and are helping you to keep your bag in order. Honestly, they are a true game-changer!   Click here to see the different sizes available !

→Order these practical packing cubes on Amazon

Lightweight Down Jacket

→ check here to see the  down jacket that comes at the best value for money

The weather can be tricky in Paris, especially when traveling to Paris during shoulder seasons. It might be warm and sunny, or it might be cold, stormy, and wet.

To be on the safe side, I always travel with a  light down jacket . They are light enough to fit in every luggage and warm enough to carry me through surprise weather changes. They are even so packable that they fit in my purse!

There are plenty of down jackets available on Amazon – all colors, with or without a hood. 

If you need some spot-on tips for a certain travel time, refer to our  seasonal guides:

• Paris by Month
• Paris in Winter
• Paris in Spring
• Paris in the Fall 

Rain Coat or a small Travel Umbrella

→ This is one of the  smallest umbrellas available  currently

Depending on the season, you might have a bit of rain. Don’t worry too much about it, though. It rarely rains an entire day in Paris.

But you should always be prepared to find yourself in a shower. While you can certainly bring a  raincoat , I’d recommend a  little travel u mbrella . This one is so small, that it fits in your purse. 

View on Amazon

The biggest benefit of an umbrella is that you can easily pack it away when it stopped raining. 

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Even though Paris has a reputation to be very chic, most people wear sneakers and flats in their daily life. But you know what? I wrote a whole article about the  best travel shoes for Paris , but to make it short: Pack comfortable shoes for Paris! 

Paris Packing List: Documents & Insurance

Depending on where you are traveling to Paris, you need to make sure you have all the necessary documents to enter France. 

Passport and Visa

The passport is obvious, but still don’t forget it! If you are traveling to Paris from the Schengen countries, your ID card is enough. However, if you are from a country that is NOT part of the Schengen area,  you require a passport, that is valid for at least 3 months  after your departure date.

From 2025: ETIAS 

If you are traveling to Paris from outside the Schengen Area from a visa exempt country, you are required to apply for  ETIAS  as a pre-traveling authorization process, similar to the American ESTA. 

ETIAS will launch probably in mid-2025 and become mandatory for travelers from then on.

Simply put, travelers from visa-exempt countries will need to register online before trips to Europe. It will become a mandatory travel document and allows you to stay up to 90 days in the Schengen Area.  This post explains the details.

Health Requirements

Since June 2021 travelers are allowed to enter France again. However, regulations and requirements are changing quickly. I am trying hard to keep my website up to date, but it’s surely not the right place to find information on government decisions.

I advise checking  this page  for the latest information  when it comes to traveling to France.

Travel Insurance (important!)

Before traveling to Paris, make sure that you have Travel Insurance! If you are not covered, for example by your  credit card company , make sure that you take precautions.

If you are a student, by no means forget your international student ID! It can grant you many benefits, for example,  discounts  at attractions and activities! 

If you are a holder of a European student ID and under 26 years old, you even are granted free access to all national museums and monuments in Paris, for example, the Louvre or the Arc de Triomphe. But also the Château de Versailles or the Centre Pompidou.  

Credit Cards

Back in the days, money was often the biggest worry of travelers – where to get it, how much to take, and what’s the exchange rate? Luckily, that’s not really needed anymore.

First, there are  plenty of ATMs in Paris , you basically have one on every corner. It’s in most cases cheaper to withdraw than to exchange money at the exchange office.

Furthermore, you can pay with credit cards in almost every store.  Contactless payments  are accepted in most stores for payments up to €50.

I recommend checking with your bank though how much/and if they charge for withdraws and credit card payments outside your country.

Furthermore, make sure to inform your bank about your trip so they don’t block your card if you use it abroad, to prevent abuse.

Your Attraction Tickets

Quick Ticket Link:   Eiffel Tower  •  Louvre  •  Seine Cruise  •  Catacombs  •  Château de Versailles

If you want to visit a  site or an activity   in Paris,  I strongly recommend purchasing your ticket in advance . I cannot insist on it enough:  buy your tickets in advance !

It sounds weird, but even the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre can be  sold out . I had the experience not that long ago when I spontaneously wanted to visit the Eiffel Tower with my son – sold out for the next 10 days to come! 

The most popular and booked out in advance sights are the following – click on them to see if there are still tickets available on your travel dates.

• The Louvre – buy tickets
• Eiffel Tower – buy tickets
• Château de Versailles – buy tickets
• Catacombs – buy tickets
• Sainte Chapelle – buy tickets
• Arc de Triomphe – buy ticket

Pro Tip : Most tour operators are accepting mobile vouchers, so there is no need to print them out, however, not everyone does. Please double-check if a printout is required.

Medication and Prescriptions

If you are traveling to France with prescription-only medication, you  should bring (a copy) of your prescription  with you. Just in case and to avoid trouble at the airport.

Keep in mind that the regulations are way stricter in France (and Europe, generally) when it comes to over-the-counter medication. Especially compared to the US!

Many medications are available only on prescription, and things you can buy freely in the US are often not freely available in France.

Parisienne since 2006 🩷

Expert in: Parisian Life &

French Culture, Travel

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Must Have Paris Travel Essentials

International Travel Adapter

Order here from Amazon

Portable Charger for your Phone

PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris

• 20 Arrondissements in Paris (Quick Guide + Map)
• Paris hidden gems: 80+ well kept secrets you shouldn’t miss
• 14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
• Your Perfect 2 Days in Paris! Itinerary & Insider Tips
• 5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris – THE complete guide!

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• July 24, 2021
• France , Travel Guides

Post: Packing list for Paris: What to bring for your trip to the City of Lights!

Ohhh Paris! You’ve been waiting for this trip since… You can’t even remember! And the moment has finally come: Passport is ready, tickets are bought, and you’re flying to the City of Lights in a few days.

Now has come the time when you need to pack and “catastrophe”… You have no idea what to bring to Paris! Back-pack or suitcase? Flats or running shoes? Well no worries young travelers. At Woyago, we’re experts in receiving travelers from North America and we’ve got you covered.

Packing lists are a must when traveling, especially if you’re going abroad. And we know how to pack wisely for a trip to Paris. 

So let’s level down the stress so you won’t forget anything important and not go to bed at sunrise the night before your flight unpacking and repacking over and over again.

Follow our guide and discover what to pack and what not to pack when visiting France’s capital, including clothing, toiletries, electronics, travel documents and other items that may come in handy during your visit!

Items & Accessories Paris Packing list

Let’s start our Paris packing list with what you’ll need for your trip. Packing light is the key to a comfortable and relaxing travel experience, so we’ve put together an appropriate list of items and accessories that can help you fully enjoy Paris… Or at least some day soon!

Luggage and travel bags

First item on the list, and probably one of the most important, is obviously your luggage or traveling bag.

There are two things to consider:

One – the suitcase you will carry during your trip, and potentially while going to other European cities. Choose a resistant case (durable outerwear) and preferably with a suitcase with 4 wheels so it can easily move around.

If this is your first time to Europe, one thing that may surprise you is how many hotels and apartments don’t have elevators! And this is especially true for many historical sites and buildings. So keep in mind the size of the suitcase you choose, because you may have to carry it up a few flights of stairs. Two – the bag you will carry during your city walking adventures and to go shopping or any other activities. 

You’ll carry it all day, everyday, so you’ll want something that’s comfortable. We recommend a small and light backpack so that the weight is split between your two shoulders and you have your hands free for any activity! Make sure it has some secure and hidden pockets to keep any valuable belongings or money.

A fanny pack

You could also bring in your luggage a fanny pack. Often used by travelers, fanny packs are waist bags you can always keep an eye on.

Secure and extremely practical to keep all your money, phone and important documents or ID in a handy way, trust us, it will be your best companion while visiting Paris.

And as a bonus it’s quite fashionable these days!

Still nervous about wearing a fanny pack. Strap it across your shoulders on an angle instead.

Payment cards

Credit and debit cards are probably the most convenient way to pay in Paris. You will find that many shops, restaurants and even museums are cash-free – especially since the extra-measures the French government implemented to limit the spread of the Coronavirus.

More commonly used in France, the debit card is ideal for paying anything “direct” such as food in a restaurant or shopping. However, if you’re renting a car or booking a hotel, it’s always safer to pay those with a credit card.

Take into account that stores might not always accept American Express cards so make sure to bring a Visa or Mastercard if you have. 

Note that you may incur extra fees when paying with a foreign bank and currency.

We recommend that you call your bank before the trip to let them know you will be traveling to France. You should also talk about transaction fees and exchange rates if possible so you know in advance what charges you could expect on top of your purchases. This should help avoid any bill surprises!

Cash money – but not too much!

For your trip to Paris, bring some cash with you but don’t over do it, especially when you travel to a foreign country. 

It’s never safe to walk around with a huge amount of money, and when you travel as a tourist, you might be a potential target for robbers, so be aware. Never take all of your money with you or save it in the same spot.

It’s common for food trucks, local markets and other smaller shops, to only be able to pay by cash, so it’s always a good idea to bring some.  But do consider that you will also have your payment cards with you and if it’s necessary, you could still withdraw more from an ATM in Paris.

A foldable travel umbrella

Nothing worse than getting caught in the rain in Paris!

We all dream of those long and passionate kisses with a Parisian under the rain, but let’s face it, chances of this movie scene happening are slim!

So don’t forget your umbrella, especially if you travel in fall or winter! If you do meet someone, you could still throw it theatrically away! 😉 

If you go to the City of love during spring or summer, it’s probably not necessary.

Pro tip: Check the current weather in Paris a few days before leaving to help you decide if you should take it or not. This might also help in choosing your clothes!

A reusable water bottle

Make sure to pack a reusable water bottle. Very convenient while travelling, you can carry it around all day and refill it.

Not too small, not too big: Around 25 ounces should do it! 

Using a reusable bottle will not only help you save money compared to buying bottled water all the time, it’s also ecologic to do so!

Pro tip: Know that you can bring on a reusable water bottle in the plane, but it has to be empty before passing the security checkpoint – so it’s sometimes better to just fill it once you are in the boarding area.

If you’re planning to go during Summer, you might be out in the sun a lot, so make sure to pack your sunglasses.

In Paris, even if it’s not as hot or sunny as somewhere else in Europe, chances are you’ll still want to enjoy some nice strolls outside so bring your shades! ​

A sleep mask and some earplugs

Noise can be an issue in some neighborhoods of Paris. Old buildings, slim windows, happy crowds, outside parties and terraces… Many reasons can affect the tranquility of your sleep and rest. But none of which will be a problem if you come equipped!

If you’re sensitive to noise, just pack some earplugs and a sleep mask for your hotel room or airbnb. If you plan on sharing a dormitory in a hostel, don’t even consider it, just pack them!

Pro tip: Keep them in an accessible part of your luggage so that you can use them during your flight and get a good night’s rest while crossing the ocean!

Clothes you need to pack for Paris

After the accessories, here are the few tips we have on clothes that you’ll need to pack for Paris. 

Packing light is the most convenient as you can easily find a place to do your laundry somewhere in the city, so make sure you only bring the essentials.

Other than the classic and obvious clothes to add in your Paris packing list such as t-shirts, pajamas, underwear, shorts and dress for summer or tights and warm jackets for winter, we gathered here a few more tips.

Let’s start this list from top to bottom: pair of jeans or pants, a trench or rain jacket, a pashmina, a black dress, walking shoes or sneakers and a sweater.

Find below some explanations as to why:

Several pairs of jeans/pants

We suggest you pack some pairs of pants or jeans if you’re going to France. Pants are great at fending off the chilly winds during winter or cool summer nights.

Pants are comfortable and they will suit any type of visit so make sure to have this must-have in your luggage!

A trench/rain jacket

If you are going to Paris in fall or winter, you’ll need a raincoat if you’re not an umbrella person!

Packing one will be useful if it starts raining while visiting outdoor sites of the city such as the Eiffel Tower or the Père Lachaise cemetery – which we recommend!

Trench coats can also keep you warm during windy days and nights and represent another option!

A Pashmina/Large scarf

Bringing a pashmina is always a good idea. Whether you visit Paris during Spring/Summer or colder months, a pashmina will come handy to cover yourself up, to keep warm or even for some old-school glam!

A pashmina is also a great option for covering up while visiting museums or churches in the summer time. 

For a night out in Paris with your new French friends, you could try wearing one as a shawl or even dress up like Audrey Hepburn from the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s!

Pro tip: If you travel in winter, make sure to bring some gloves, a hat and warm socks too as it can get very cold – usually up to 32°F!

A little black dress

A black dress is one of the essentials of your Paris packing list. Simple and elegant, use it if you want to look trendy and feel comfortable at the same time!

Packing one of those will then be an easy choice as you can use it for a night out, a romantic dinner, a fancy brunch and much more!

A Light jacket/Light blazer

There will be times when you might not want to show much skin while walking in Paris. The weather can change quickly so having a light jacket or blazer with you is always a nice idea and gives you a Parisian style!

Pro tip: If this is for a business trip, we suggest you pack blazers! From October to March, you might consider a padded jacket to keep you a bit warmer.

Walking shoes/sneakers

You might be walking a lot in Paris, so you will need some good walking shoes or comfortable sneakers.

Packing light is essential but we suggest you pack at least one pair of comfortable walking shoes that will help you get through those long days of sightseeing. ​

Overall, for a small trip during summer, you might also consider a pair of sandals or flats. Whereas for a winter trip, you might want to bring warm and flat boots that do not fear the snow.

Unless you are planning to go to a special event, you do not have to pack a pair of fancy high heels. Usually, Parisian women are showing a relaxed but still trendy fashion style.

A sweater – or more!

You might want to pack one sweater or several if traveling after September as Paris can be very cold at times.

If the weather is nice, wear it on your shoulders and tie the sleeves up-front like you might have seen on some golf players. This will give you a fresh and elegant style. And when needed, you have a handy ally to fight the cold!

What should you not wear in Paris?

When in Rome, do as the Romans do! – So when in Paris…

What you need to know is that Parisian women usually wear elegant clothes, yet relaxed. If you want to dress like a local, you might wanna be well dressed but also comfortable to enjoy your many visits and long walks wandering the incredible Haussmannian streets.

Don’t wear extravagant or valuable jewelry

A ‘Paris look’ is sleek so avoid wearing too many accessories or clothes with bright colors and prints. 

Pare down to what is really necessary – a small bag, a watch or an elegant pair of earrings for example. Do not bring or wear expensive or valuable jewelry.

Don’t bring any high-heels

Like stated before, you also want to leave at home your high-heeled shoes. We can assure you, those will be no help while getting up the Montmartre hill to visit the Sacré-Coeur Basilica !

Don’t pack any swimwear

While packing for Paris, consider if you will visit any nearby cities. If the answer is a no, then you won’t need a swimsuit as there is no great option for you to swim in the city.

Don’t wear any fancy handbag

For your own safety, we don’t recommend that you walk around Paris with fancy and luxury handbags. Like we stated earlier, better keep it simple and hands-free like a small crossbody bag or an urban backpack.

Must-have items when packing for a trip abroad

As for any other trips, there are a few essentials you must have when travelling abroad. Here are a few reminders of what to take with you:

Passport and visas

This is an essential item on the Packing List For Paris. Your passport is your key to France, so make sure it’s current and valid.

Always bring photocopies of your passport that you can place in any bags you own, in case you lose your passport or one piece of baggage.

Check with your airline and local authorities for up to date information about other entry requirements. Or better yet, check with your travel agency.

Travel documents

Additional items to consider on your Packing List are simply the tickets, itinerary and other travel documents. It’s good to have them in a small folder or envelope. 

You should also know the name and address of the hotel that you are staying at or the Airbnb address you will be sleeping in.

Make sure to also make a copy of every important document and reservation.You never know when you might need them!

Travel insurance

Another thing to tackle while packing: get travel insurance.

It’s always better to be safe than sorry! Packing insurance can protect you in case of loss, theft or damage including baggage, medical expenses and dental care. 

You’ll want to be covered during your entire stay abroad, no matter how long it is!

Cell phone, cable, charger & headphones

We can’t live without them anymore, so we imagine this is not even worth mentioning. But here it goes: Don’t forget to pack your cell phone, preferably one that has an international plan and is unlocked. You can find out the details by calling your provider or checking their website.

It will be handy to have it unblocked so you can always stay connected with family, friends or new acquaintances but to also use data to search for your way around, do your check-in and so on. 

A few public Wifi spots will be available at the airport and in the city if you do not have any data access.

Also think about packing your cable, charger and headphones and bring the necessary adaptors too!

No Paris packing list is complete without a camera! And we mean any type of camera – from a simple phone cam to a more complicated DSLR.

Believe us, the city is so wonderful that you’ll want to capture every single moment of your vacation!

Pro tip: Remember to bring extra memory cards, batteries and chargers for your battery-operated items.

In case you are an avid user of your mobile phone, camera or any other electronic device, you might also consider packing a power bank.

Pro tip: Verify the battery before you pack it!

Universal adapter

Last but not least, do not forget to bring an adapter!

This item might not be on your Paris packing list yet but it’s highly recommended to take one as electrical outlets are different in France and USB plugs are not that common.

If you travel abroad often, this small investment will quickly pay off! 😉

Travel toiletries kit

When packing for Paris, think about some travel-size toiletry items that fit in your bag and don’t take up too much space. If you travel in June, July or August, think about bringing sunblock!

First aid kit

The first aid kit is one of those must-have things when packing for a trip. Having it in your suitcase can help you avoid more serious issues while on your trip.

Student card

A student card is a great packing list addition to any trip abroad if you are still holding one. 

It might give you discounts at restaurants, tours and bars or even help to get free entrance in the museums around town!

Pro tip: Make sure to check student prices before paying or booking anything!

Pen & notebook

Another one of our packing tips: Don’t forget to include some note paper and a pen. These two things can prove really useful while abroad.

There are many interesting sites you may just have to write about. Keeping note will help you keep track of all the places you want to visit and make sure they remain intact in your memory for a long time!

Masks, hand gel & Covid Test

Since 2020, other essentials when traveling the world are a small-size hand gel sanitizer, several masks – including at least one chirurgical, mandatory for the plane – and a negative Covid PCR-Test.

Pro tip: Make sure to book your test in advance so you can get your results on time before heading to Paris.

A few last tips to help you pack for Paris

Pack pre-made outfits.

When getting your luggage ready, remember to pack outfits and not individual pieces. You might want to spend some time to analyze your Paris packing list, see if your garments’ selection comes together nicely.

If a piece is not fitting into your several outfits, it simply doesn’t have its place here.

Choose clothes you can wash easily

Remember, you’re only going to visit Paris for a few days – not to participate in a Fashion show. You need to think practical and this includes picking clothes that can be washed easily in the machine and are fast drying enough in case you need to re-use them during your trip!

Lay out all of your clothes

All planned clothing should be laid out on the bed before packing it – this will help avoid wrinkling as well as ensure that there’s room in the suitcase (or backpack).

Organize your bag

Packing clothes with like colors together makes them easier to find later on during your travels. Packing underwear separately from other clothing prevents it from being mixed up and also keeps it smelling fresh.

Pack light to bring souvenir clothes

Don’t forget to pack light in order to bring back home the few extra fashion items that you purchased in France!

Yes, because after all, Paris is also one of the world’s fashion cities…

Own your style

In the end, remember that the most important thing is that you own your style. 

Even if you follow our Paris packing list very carefully, we also want you to feel comfortable and confident while visiting the French capital.

Trust your intuition! You know better than anyone what are the ideal items that will make you feel at ease and that you should take to Paris or not!

Packing appropriately can be difficult, especially when traveling abroad. 

As a conclusion, keep in mind that picking clothes that are lightweight, easily washable and practical is always a good start! 

You also want to check the weather in France beforehand to adapt your list accordingly and make sure you have the correct essentials with you! 

And ultimately, it’s also about finding something that works best for you!

We cannot wait to see you around Paris and we would actually be very happy to walk you through this beautiful city with one of our Parisian guided tours . Make sure you check those out before starting your luggage preps!

À très bientôt!

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Le Travel Style

by Courtney Delfino • a San Diego based travel + lifestyle blog inspiring you to travel in style

Lifestyle , Packing Guides , Style , Travel , Travel Tips · Last Updated: May 29, 2023

The Ultimate Paris Packing List for Every Season

Paris packing list for every season.

Heading to the city of lights and not sure what to bring? Well, this “Ultimate Paris Packing List” will cover all your needs and help you look stylish in the style capital of the world. As cliche as it sounds, Paris is one of my favorite cities to travel to. Mainly because of the beauty and architecture which always inspires my outfits in Paris packing. It’s essential to curate your travel packing lists based on the weather. In this post, I have broken down each of the categories by fall/winter and spring/summer to help you build your Parisian capsule wardrobe. Get ready girl because you are going to PARIS!

Essentials to Pack for Paris

Regardless of the weather, these essentials are necessary to bring to Paris. Whether it’s a power adapter, packing cubes, the right credit card, or a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated – these items won’t go unused when traveling to Paris.

While all opinions and recommendations are always my own, my content on this blog post may contain affiliate links for products I use and love. This means I get a small commission (at no additional cost to you) if you make a purchase after clicking one of these links. As always, I am so thankful for your support so I can continue to offer free resources!

• Power adapter : you will not be able to plug in any American chargers in Europe. Make sure to grab a power adapter so you’re able to use your chargers and hot tools.
• Packing Cubes : I do not travel without these packing cubes. They not only organize your entire suitcase but they are easy to pop in and out of hotel room drawers. My #1 packing hack as a travel blogger!
• Portable Charger : This 2 pack comes in handy for my husband and me. It’s always good to have these when traveling they have saved me time and time again!
• Mastercard or Visa: I always use my Delta American Express however, in Paris it’s a 50/50 chance that they don’t accept American Express. Most everywhere does accept Mastercard and Visa so pack those.
• Travel Insurance is always a great idea. We used hey mondo when we visited and really trust their services. Whatever you do, do not purchase alliance travel insurance they have the worst customer service I have ever encountered.
• Packable Umbrella: Paris in the rain is quite magical and it can rain often in Paris so it’s best to pack an umbrella.

Paris Capsule Wardrobe

So you want to build your Paris capsule wardrobe? Paris exudes glamour and classiness so keep that in mind when curating your packing list. Think neutral colors and classic pieces with a trendy twist. Although Paris is classy it’s also the fashion capital of the world so don’t be afraid to pull out your extra high-fashion pieces. Once you visit you will understand the vibe that comes with visiting Paris and the high fashion that follows.

Clothing to Pack for Paris year-round

Trench Coat or Rain Jacket: A trench coat is the clothing equivalent of a classic black purse. It never goes out of style and every closet needs this wardrobe staple. Being that it’s a lightweight jacket you can wear this for every season in Paris.

Little Black Dress : what’s a better combo than Paris and a little black dress? Having a chic black dress is a great staple to bring when traveling because you never know when the mood will strike for a fancy dinner abroad. Paris will do that to you!

Shirt Dress : a chic way to be comfortable in Paris is wearing a shirt dress. You can pair it with tall boots and. a fedora like I did above for an effortless look.

White button-down : the perfect all-season staple is a white button-down. I always pack mine for whatever trip I’m headed on. Whether you pair it with straight-leg jeans, a mini skirt, or faux leather leggings you can never go wrong with purchasing a quality white shirt for your wardrobe.

Chic blazer : Blazers are no longer a work staple but they are a classic wardrobe piece. This sharp silhouette is a perfect way to style up a boring outfit and the girls in Paris love an oversized blazer look.

Straight-leg Jeans : Jeans and traveling are kind of a love-hate relationship for me but I can’t argue that jeans are the best versatile piece to pack. And having properly fitting jeans is a small luxury every woman needs in her life!

Wide-Leg Trousers : over the past few years wide leg trousers have taken the fashion industry by storm. I am here for the new classic staple because they are so comfortable and chic. I strive to be those two things when I travel. You can dress these up with a statement top and heels or casually wear them with sneakers and a white tee.

Statement Jacket : It’s Paris so let’s make a fashion statement shall we? As you can see I wore this jacket all over Paris and not only did it keep me warm during November, I got so many compliments on it! For the warmer months consider a lightweight jacket that also makes a statement.

Fall/Winter

Camel Topper : not only is a camel topper a great wardrobe staple, but it’s also a great Paris staple as well during the colder months. You can pair leather leggings and a white button-down for a casual look or dress it up with a sweater dress and heels.

Neutral sweater : I pack 2-3 of these when traveling during winter because they’re great for layering looks. You can easily space-save them by purchasing compression bags . These babies come in handy when traveling with bulky items.

Sweater Dress : a sweater dress pairs so nicely with tall boots and a camel topper for a chic cafe visit (Cafe de Flore is our favorite in Paris).

Faux Leather Leggings : these have taken the fashion industry by storm over the past two years. I don’t see them going anywhere and it’s a great alternative to jeans for a night-time look. Not to mention they are so comfy!

Leather Skirt : I wore my leather skirt more often than my jeans when visiting Paris because I love dressing up in Paris and romanticizing living there one day.

Long Sleeve Layers : during the colder months wearing long sleeve layers underneath your clothing is the best way to not freeze when sightseeing. I always purchase my layers at Uniqlo since they’re affordable and best to replace them every few years.

Spring/Summer

Light Blazer : a lightweight blazer is a great packing staple to base an outfit on. Whether you pair it with a silk skirt and tank or jeans and sneakers you can never go wrong with purchasing this classic blazer that I own and love.

Denim Jacket : I can confidently say that a denim jacket will never go out of style. According to Gen Z, they are on their way out however as a millennial woman I’m claiming that denim jackets are here to stay! While the styles may change throughout the years, currently the oversized silhouette is popular.

Light Cardigan : A light cardigan comes in handy whether you’re on the plane or need it to drape over your shoulders during a crisp spring day in Paris. Keeping a neutral color palette in mind this cardigan is a favorite of mine when traveling.

Midi Dress : the perfect balance between casual and polished. When traveling you can pair a midi dress with sneakers and a lightweight cardigan for a chic museum visit look. If you want to dress it up pair it with heels, hoop earrings, and a statement jacket.

Paris Packing List: Accessories

Comfortable walking shoes.

I average 20,000 steps per day when I travel Europe so it’s best to bring yourself a comfortable pair of sneakers. Luckily, in recent years Parisians have become more accustomed to leisure wear. While you shouldn’t wear a full-on lululemon look (the French only wear workout clothes when working out), a trendy pair of sneakers is a must-pack item. This one pair I’ve had this personally for two years and have walked the streets of Paris, London, and Spain with no complaint.

Black Pumps

Paris is a fancy city so there are endless activities that allow us to dress to the nines. Consider a nice dinner cruise and throw on a pair of classic black pumps with a cocktail dress and you’ll be ready for a night on the town.

Chic Sunglasses

When you’re traveling and have tired eyes sunglasses are a girl’s best friend. They’re also the perfect accessory to make an outfit pull together. I love these Le Specs sunglasses that come in a few different colors. I always get the most compliments on them and they compliment a variety of face shapes.

Hoop earrings

I tend to not pack too much jewelry when traveling and stick to simple pieces. You can never go wrong with a chic pair of hoop earrings. Adding a bit of shine to your Paris outfit.

Crossbody Bag

Not only is a crossbody bag versatile, but it’s also a great way to safely store your belongings while traveling. The trick is to put the bag in front of your body as opposed to the back where pickpocketers can access it. Luckily the crossbody trend is not going anywhere. Finally, this Marc Jacobs bag is perfect for Paris and has an elevated look without designer prices.

I always travel with my lululemon backpack as it’s a great carry-on on the plane and holds my laptop, skincare bag, and other travel necessities. Furthermore, it’s easy to wear when traveling on multi-city trips.

If you go to Paris you MUST pack a beret. It’s a right of passage and is the perfect touch to add to your Paris packing list. Think about the pictures in front of the Eiffel Tower wearing your beret, a no-brainer! Finally, if you don’t already own one I would suggest you purchase one in Paris for a little souvenir.

Accessories for Fall/Winter

I’m a big stickler for protecting your face from the sun. While traveling we tend to be outside quite often so I always pack multiple hats. Not only do they provide SPF but they add a little zhutz to any outfit. I love this felt hat because it’s timeless and stylish.

Pro Tip for packing hats: I typically wear a hat on the flight and pack one in my checked bag. The best way to pack it without it getting smushed is to pack out the top with clothing items and surround the outside of the hat with a cushion of clothes.

CASHMERE BEANIE

A cashmere beanie not only keeps you warm but it helps with looking winter chic! This beanie is a favorite of mine and has lasted for years.

Instead of ankle boots, try a tall boot for a more fashionable way to wear boots. Whether it be an OTK boot, heeled boots, or suede you will fit right in donning a pair of tall boots in Paris. These are my go-to boots when I travel because I can walk all day in them with no complaint.

Chelsea Boots

Ok I know I just said tall boots are better and more stylish however a Chelsea boot is not your average ankle bootie. They have been around for generations and are a classic piece to add to your wardrobe.

While wearing your tall boots I always make sure to pack thicker socks in the winter/fall. These hue socks are a favorite and I have been wearing them since my days working at Nordstrom (almost 10 years ago!).

Accessories for Spring/Summer

Nude sandals.

Not the best for long hours of sightseeing however for a day tour or museum visit pack a pair of neutral sandals for the summer. They pair perfectly with a midi dress, sunnies, and a straw hat.

Lightweight Sneakers

The city of lights gets steamy in the summer months so pack a pair of lightweight sneakers that have breathable fabric. I always wear these socks and they are hands down the best no-show socks around and truly stay up with lots of walking.

Neutral Heels

Neutral heels come in handy during the warmer months but opt for one with a thicker heel. Do not underestimate the cobblestone streets of Paris. While they are incredibly charming they aren’t best for stilettos if you know what I mean.

Chic Straw Hat

Like I said earlier, I want you to keep your face protected from the sun because that is the number one way to help combat aging my ladies. Having a chic fedora in the summer in Paris is a necessity.

What Not to Bring to Paris

Expensive Jewelry: Sadly with visiting a big city comes pickpocketers. You always need to be super aware when visiting touristy places. In order to not stand out leave your expensive jewelry at home.

Heavy Items: Paris temperatures are pretty mild year-long. Aside from the coldest months of the year (December, January, and February), the temperature doesn’t drop below 50° much. Because of that, you can leave your bulky sweaters and heavy jackets at home.

Super Touristy Clothing: I’m thinking of Hard Rock Cafe t-shirts from random places in the states. Paris is a classy place and you’ll stick out like a roe thumb if you wear anything that screams tourist. Along with that, leave home your camouflage. In Europe, it is reserved for military personnel only and civilians don’t ever wear them.

Beachwear: Typically in Europe, the only place to wear beachwear is you guessed it, by the beach. And unfortunately, Paris doesn’t have any beaches nearby. So leave your cut-off shorts and tank tops for other areas of France!

Thank you for reading my “Ultimate Paris Packing List for Every Season”. I hope you enjoy one of my all-time favorite cities and don’t miss my “ 4 DAYS PARIS ITINERARY ” to help plan your entire trip!

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Packing for Paris Made Simple & Chic: Carry-On Only Edition

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Are you packing for a Paris trip and unsure what to bring? To avoid lost luggage, an increasing number of travelers are opting to squeeze their belongings into one carry-on. For Paris, this can be tricky, since you’ll want to strike the right balance between comfort and style.

I’ve been traveling with just a carry-on bag for years and even successfully did it last year for a two-week Paris trip. While there is certainly a place for checked luggage, I still think carry-on only is better. One small bag is easier to transport, there’s less opportunity to lose belongings, and you can skip baggage claim.

But how can packing successfully for Paris be possible with such limited space? First off, the below packing list covers all the essentials things to bring to Paris, which you literally cannot travel without. Additionally, I am sharing exactly what items I packed (and purchased) on both a summer and mid-spring Paris trip in just a carry-on to show you it can be done.

The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Paris in Just a Carry-On

Even though I am usually against checking luggage, I almost checked a bag for this trip. For two weeks in Paris, it would have been nice to pack a few extra things.

However, I was already having anxiety about traveling solo in Paris , and didn’t want to add lost luggage to my worries. Therefore, I turned to my trusty carry-on .

Since I’d already done this for a successful three-week trip to Greece , Malta , and Barcelona , I sort of already knew what I could fit. However, it helped that these were warm weather trips, which called for lighter fabrics and less bulky articles of clothing.

Packing for Paris in a Carry-on: The Essentials

Below are the items you’ll never see me travel without – especially internationally.

• Copy of passport to keep on your person. I like to keep my actual passport locked in my hotel room to avoid it being lost or stolen. Even a phone screenshot is better than nothing.
• Global Entry card
• Boarding pass (be sure it reflects TSA PreCheck if you have it)
• Credit cards: I like to bring one Visa and one Mastercard when traveling internationally. In Paris, I noticed AMEX was often times not accepted at restaurants.
• ATM card: Wondering how much cash you should carry in Paris? Withdrawing about €50-€100 should do the trick. The only times I needed cash was for purchases under five euros at boulangeries and grocery stores.
• Face masks (optional at this point, but still handy to have on hand)

Starting in mid-2025, Americans will need a visa to enter France and other European countries.

Clothing for Your Paris Packing List

Outfits to wear in Paris vary by person and season, and it’s best to find a balance between comfort and style. Here are my best tips to consider when packing clothing for Paris:

• For hot weather: It was over 100 ° F during my July trip. Therefore, I packed a few extra light tops and dresses so I could change from sweaty clothes before dinner.
• For wet weather: Rain or snow is a great opportunity to pack fashionable boots. If that’s not feasible, at least bring some extra socks so you can change out of wet ones.
• Packing bulky items: Boots or heavy coats can be difficult to fit into carry-on luggage. Therefore, I recommend simply wearing them on the plane (you can always take them off during your flight)
• Stay comfortable: Bring clothes you can tolerate while exploring on foot and by metro all day long
• Mix and match: I like to pack multiple tops that can go with a few pairs of pants or shorts. It also helps to stay within a simple color palette of black, white, denim, and neutrals.
• Channel the Parisians: While I did squeeze in a couple playful outfits, it’s not realistic to go full “Emily in Paris” when packing just a carry-on. That said, Parisians have a more subdued style anyhow, so keeping it simple will help you blend in.

Below, I am listing out exactly what I packed, as well as items I purchased while in Paris during both spring and summer trips. That way, you can see what I was able to fit into my carry-on luggage during one-week and two-week trips. Note: you’ll see some overlap on these two lists.

The Summer Clothing I Packed for 2 Weeks in Paris

• 4 bras (1 strapless)
• 2 bralettes (1 black, 1 beige)
• 15 pairs of underwear
• 14 pairs of socks
• 2-3 pairs of pajama shorts
• 8 pajama tops (I like to wear ribbed tanks to bed)
• 1 pair of white striped linen pants
• 2 pairs of denim shorts (different lengths)
• 1 pair of white shorts
• 1 pair of light green dressy shorts
• 1 pair of beige casual shorts
• Black eyelet spaghetti strap top
• Pink floral sleeveless blouse
• Cream short-sleeve peasant top
• Sleeveless, lacy maroon blouse
• Simple black tanktop
• Black tank-top body suit
• White linen tank top
• Blue t-shirt
• White t-shirt
• Black silk camisole
• Light blue casual, button-up dress
• Long, flowy dress
• Short black linen dress with puff sleeves
• Black casual sleeveless dress
• Patterned, super light-weight spaghetti strap dress
• 2 necklaces
• 3 quarter-sleeve striped top (purchased in Paris)
• Cozy houndstooth vintage cardigan (purchased in Paris)

The Spring Clothing I Packed for 1 Week in France

During this trip, I spent two days in Bordeaux and five in Paris .

• 3 bras (beige)
• 1 strapless bra
• 1 beige bralette
• 9 pairs of underwear
• 9 pairs of socks
• 2 pairs of pajama shorts
• 5 pajama tops (to save space, I re-wear these a couple times)
• 1 pair of linen pants
• 2 pairs of jeans (one loose fitting and one ankle)
• 1 pair of sweatpants (for lounging in the hotel)
• White peasant blouse
• Simple black tank top
• 1 lightweight long sleeve sweater
• Striped white long sleeve shirt
• 1 denim button-up shirt
• Dressy black spaghetti strap romper
• Kimono shawl
• Lightweight scarf
• Trench coat
• Pearl earrings
• 1 new striped 3/4-sleeve shirt purchased in Paris

If you are staying somewhere with a washer and dryer, you can bring less clothing and save even more carry-on space. This is especially helpful when packing warm layers for travel in chillier months.

Also, spending two days in Paris vs. two weeks will require a lot less luggage space. Be sure to adjust this list for your own trip duration to avoid overpacking.

Footwear for Paris

Shoes will depend on what works for your feet, as well as room in your suitcase. For me, sneakers are the most practical choice for wandering through Paris. Therefore, I brought two pairs: one black and one white/neutral.

I recommend bringing no more than two different types of shoes in a carry-on:

• At least one pair of sneakers
• Dressy shoes/sandals (optional)
• Shoe inserts for people like me, who have arch issues

Personal Care Items

Below are all the essentials you’ll need for personal care when packing for Paris. Since you aren’t checking luggage, you will be limited to a 1-quart bag with up to 3.4 oz. each for liquids, gels, and aerosols.

To comply with this, I use small reusable containers for shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. However, if you aren’t picky, hotels and vacation rentals often provide these items for free. For things like face wash and shave gel, I try to find tiny samples for purchase from stores like Target, Sephora, and Ulta Beauty.

Pack in Your Carry-on:

• Face sheet mask
• Eye sheet mask
• Chapstick (with SPF)
• NAKED Eye Shadow Palette
• Wide-toothed comb
• Dental floss
• Pads/tampons
• Face wipes for makeup
• Fashion tape
• Eyelash curler
• Cotton balls
• Makeup brushes
• Eyeliner sharpener

Pack in a Separate 1-Quart Liquids Bag:

• Conditioner
• Face wash (I usually get this Clinique set )
• Moisturizer
• Sunscreen for face ( this one is my go-to)
• Eye shadow primer
• Hand sanitizer

Travel Savvy Tip

If it is still difficult to squeeze the above items into a small 1-quart bag, see if you can share anything with your travel companions (if applicable). For example, my husband always seems to have leftover space and we can both use the same toothpaste.

Additionally, some airlines have become more lenient with hand sanitizer in recent years. Therefore, you might be able to pack a small container outside of your normal liquids bag.

Also keep in mind that your hotel may already have shampoo and body wash for you to use.

Medications

It’s critical to continue taking care of your health while traveling; the last thing you need is downtime in Paris nursing an ailment. I actually stayed in bed a full day during my two-week Paris trip because of a stomach bug. Things happen!

Minimize interrupting your adventures for medical reasons by staying prepared. This includes daily prescriptions and preventative items, just in case.

• Prescription meds
• Advil or other pain reliever
• Vitamins (keep that immunity high while traveling!)
• Probiotic (in case of upset stomach)

Electronics

In today’s world, it’s necessary to travel with at least some electronics. For example, you’ll definitely want your cell phone for communication, if not also for navigation and photos.

Even though international flights usually have decent entertainment, I still like to download a few Netflix shows to my iPad. I also prefer to bring my Sony A6000 camera for better quality photos.

• Phone charger
• iPad charger
• Portable USB charger
• Universal travel adapter/converter (the outlets in Europe are a different shape and voltage than in the USA)
• Camera lens
• Hair straightener
• Hair wand for curls

Other Paris Packing List Necessities

Below are some other miscellaneous items you will want for your Paris trip. I know I was glad to have the following:

• Copies of itinerary, entry tickets, addresses for lodging
• Small cross-body purse
• Any unused euros from prior trips
• Insulated water bottle (take advantage of free water fountains around Paris!). I also recommend filling it up before boarding your flight.
• Under-the-seat bag for plane
• Cell phone tripod
• Alcohol wipes for airport and plane. On my Paris flights, the tray tables were filthy.
• Snacks for plane. I really don’t like plane food, so instead I bring granola bars from home and purchase sandwiches in the airport.

Items to Leave at Home When Packing for Paris

Don’t bother bringing the below items, which are supplied by your hotel or will otherwise take up extra space. You can always buy the below products as needed in Paris.

• Sunscreen for body
• Aloe vera in case of sunburn
• Anti-itch cream for pesky mosquito bites

Now you are all set to start packing for Paris in just one carry-on bag and small personal item. Not only will you look fabulous while staying comfortable, but you will also avoid the growing hassle of checking a bag. All you have to worry about now is buying metro tickets and which arrondissements to visit (after getting that much-desired passport stamp!).

What are your Paris must-haves?

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Hi. Can you speak a bit about the weight of your carry on bag to Paris and what airline you used? I am planning a trip to France/Switzerland and would love to travel carry on only but the weight restrictions for carry on is small. Thank you for any insight.

Of course! I traveled to Paris on United Airlines with a Samsonite softside carry-on bag. While it has an expandable top, I never use it because the extra items I fit might make my bag either too big or too heavy. Even though I traveled in summer, my bag was completely full of clothing. It was not weighed at the airport, but I think I probably would have been right around the proper weight. If you are not sure, you could always try stepping on a home scale first without your bag, and then with your fully packed bag to see if you’re good. I hope that helps!

I also want to add that I’ve done multi-country trips before with flights on multiple airlines with just a carry-on. Some of my flights within Europe (on Ryanair and similar) still made me check my bag. However, it is still always worth it to me to pack light, especially when moving around to multiple destinations, because it’s so much easier to get around with less stuff.

Fabulous packing lists. Thank you so much

Of course! Bon voyage!

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Home > Travel Essentials List: What’s in our Travel Day Bag for Exploring Paris

Travel Essentials List: What’s in our Travel Day Bag for Exploring Paris

One of the most important things to know before traveling to Paris is what to pack. Apart from clothes, shoes, and toiletries, your Paris Packing List should include a travel day bag with some travel essentials for exploring Paris.

The best day bag for Paris and what to put inside will depend on your plans in the city. Whether you are going to Paris for sightseeing, shopping or meeting friends, we give you the list of Paris essentials, what to pack in a day bag and our best tips.

Check out our collection of Paris Packing Lists

• Men’s Paris Packing List, Fall – Winter
• Men’s Paris Packing List, Spring – Summer
• Women’s Paris Packing List, Fall – Winter
• Women’s Paris Packing List, Spring – Summer

Tips for Choosing your Travel Day Bag for Paris

One of our best tips when visiting Paris is to travel light, with a few travel essentials. There is no best bag for walking around Paris, it all depends on what you are going to do in the city during your trip.

If you are visiting Paris for sightseeing, we recommend a crossbody bag. Crossbody bags are perfect sightseeing bags. They are stylish and they don’t mark you as a tourist. They are also big enough for carrying the main day trip essentials but not too bulky.

Ideally, you want a travel day bag with anti-theft features. Unfortunately, pickpockets are not uncommon in the Metro of Paris or around the main Paris tourist sights .

Our favorite models are here below. You can read more about anti-theft travel bags and find other models in this post .

If you are visiting Paris for activities like museums, shopping, exploring the arrondissements of Paris , or meeting friends, go chic and take a tote bag for walking around Paris.

I use and I recommend this vegan leather tote bag, which is also available in black and deep red. I like its casual style and there is plenty of space inside for my day trip essentials, with an inner pocket for small items.

If your Paris travel itinerary includes one or two-day trips around Paris, I would definitely think about a small backpack instead of a shoulder bag.

Day trips from Paris usually require a few extra necessities and backpacks have more capacity and ensure a better weight balance on the shoulders.

Backpacks are not necessarily a synonym of tourists as there are many great brands proposing urban, stylish backpacks. In Paris, you will see many locals, women, and men, carrying beautiful backpacks to go to work or for their daily travels.

Again, we recommend an antitheft backpack for safe travels and peace of mind, especially if you are going to take the metro of Paris . The most known brands are Travelon and Pacsafe . XD Design also has beautiful models for urban travelers.

Without antitheft features, there are two popular brands in Paris.

Fjallraven-Kanken backpacks are the latest trend in Paris. The brand is a little bit expensive but the backpack is made of top quality materials, it is dirt resistant, water-resistant and you can use it for years if you want.

I personally have the 16L model, with a separate compartment for the computer, so I can use it for going to work or for my day explorations around Paris.

Herschel is another popular backpack in Paris. Locals love the quality of its materials, its vintage touch, and beautiful colors.

Paris Travel Essentials List

Paris sightseeing checklist .

• Wallet, phone, documents, keys
• Stainless steel insulated water bottle
• Mini foldable umbrella
• Small notebook (optional)

What to pack in a day bag for exploring Paris?

In addition to normal bag contents which consist of a wallet ,  phone ,  documents , and the keys of the hotel or the apartment in Paris , I don’t go anywhere without my cameras (more about this below), sunglasses and an insulated water bottle to avoid single-use plastic bottles.

Also, it is a good idea to pack in your sightseeing bag a  foldable umbrella for the rainy days in Paris , and some snacks. For example, I always have black chocolate in my bag.

In addition to the Paris travel essentials mentioned above, I always carry a small Moleskine notebook and pen to write thoughts or inspiring quotes, especially when I visit a museum or an exhibition. I have the Moleskine Classic Notebook, the same model used by Picasso or Ernest Hemingway just to name a few. There is a Moleskine City Notebook dedicated to Paris .

Day Trip Essentials Checklist

• Coffee travel mug
• Light scarf
• Light cardigan

The travel essentials list for day trips around Paris is similar to the Paris sightseeing list but with some additional items.

When going on a full-day tour it is also good to add a travel coffee mug (to avoid single-use coffee cups) and some reading for the train rides. I always take my Kindle Oasis e-reader because it is light and I can store hundreds of books.

Kindle Oasis e-reader is the best of Kindl (Amazon format), with a high-resolution display (7″, 300dpi) for an optimal font presentation. This E-reader supports JPEG, GIF, and PNG formats and audible audio format (AAX), which is a plus.

In Paris in the summer I usually pack a light scarf or a light cardigan. These items are good to have if the temperature drops while you are out for the day.

Finally, it is a good idea to pack a travel power bank for your phone, e-reader, and other electronics.

Paris Photography: Our Cameras

Canon 5d mark iii.

This is my main camera, a  Canon 5D Mark III .  The Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a professional camera, grade 22.3 megapixels, full-frame digital single-lens reflex (DSLR).

This is one of the best professional cameras on the market right now, it is like the Ferrari in the cars’ world! Canon recently launched a newer version of Canon 5D, Canon 5D Mark IV, but everybody agrees that it is not as good as the Canon 5D Mark III.

This is a very expensive camera and I only recommend it if you want to get serious about photography.

Also, it is quite heavy (1.5kg) so not everybody is ready to carry that weight for taking pictures.

This Canon is not my everyday camera. I carry this camera only for Paris day trips, weekend getaways from Paris , or when I want to enjoy Photography in Paris .

You can buy the Canon 5D Mark III separately (only the body). I bought the kit shown in the carousel, with an EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM Lens.

Sometimes I also carry an EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens, when I want to have some fun with macro photography.

If you like Canon cameras but you prefer a less expensive model, we have a couple of friends who are very happy with a Canon 70D .

Like many photographers, I always like to have a camera on me. My Canon is really too big to slip into a handbag and my phone has its limits.

I recently bought a Fuji X100T that I love. It slips everywhere, is discreet and ideal for street photography.

Warning: this is not a camera that I would recommend as your main camera in the sense that the lens is fixed (28mm equivalent 35mm) and not interchangeable.

Personally, I like the quality of the photos produced, its vintage look and it’s “old-style click” when I take pictures makes me giggle! Even if its handling is a little complicated at first, once you try it you will adopt it quite easily.

Panasonic Lumix DMC

This one was my everyday camera before buying the Fuji X100T. Norbert bought me this camera (three cameras was too much!) so you will still see pictures taken with this camera in World in Paris.

In the past, I had a Panasonic bridge and I loved its Leica lens, my pictures were always very colorful! The Leica lens was the main reason why I decided to buy another Panasonic.

I chose the Panasonic DMC for its already fantastic reputation. In regards to its predecessor, the TZ60, it has fewer pixels (12 million pixels against 18 million pixels) with the same size of the sensor. This means that the individual pixels are larger which makes it better at night.

Now you know what’s in our travel day bag for exploring Paris. What about you? What’s your Paris travel essentials list?

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• Tips for Visiting Paris
• Eating in Paris

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About WORLD IN PARIS

Quirky parisian explorer with a preference for lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about me ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.

Best Travel Accessories to Add to Your Paris Packing List

Europe Packing List , Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

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Planning what to bring to Paris? Don’t forget about all of the important travel accessories! From bags to anti-theft items to electronics, we’ve rounded up all the Paris essentials to make your travels easy.

Paris Travel Essentials

Table of contents.

If you’re heading to Paris, you’re likely spending time planning out the perfect capsule wardrobe and need to know what to wear to Paris . If you’re traveling in summer, check out this ultimate guide to Paris summer style. 

Regardless of when you go to the city of romance, don’t forget about all of the crucial travel accessories that’ll make your trip smooth and comfortable! 

Here are all of the must-have travel accessories to add to your packing list for Paris ! 

Personal Item Essentials for Paris

If you’re wondering how to prepare for a trip to Paris , let’s start with the flight there! Your personal item is one of the most important bags to pack, as it’ll hold everything you need to make your flight easy and enjoyable. 

Sherpani Soleil Convertible Travel Backpack

Personal Item Bag for the Flight

Your personal item should be compact yet roomy enough to store all of your essentials for a long flight. Some readers opt to bring a personal item bag that can double as their day bag throughout their trip, while others like to bring a roomier option and pack their smaller day bag in their luggage. 

Either way, go for something that’s lightweight, has some great organization, is easy to keep clean, and is durable. 

The Sherpani Soleil backpack checks all these boxes, and it’s been a consistent reader favorite for Europe. It’s ultra-versatile with multiple ways to carry it, plus it’s lightweight, water-resistant, anti-theft, and really cute, too! 

Overall, readers highly recommend a convertible backpack for more wearing options or a backpack with a trolley sleeve for ease of transport.

Check out a few airplane outfit ideas to feel relaxed but still look chic when traveling!

Zoppen Passport Wallet Cover Case

Passport Holder for ID

Readers love the security and convenience of a passport holder . It’s a great way to keep your passport protected from the wear and tear of travel. Plus, if you get one in a fun color or print, you’ll be able to spot it easily in your bag! 

Many options offer RFID protection as well, which is another bonus. 

Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Headphones

Noise Canceling Headphones

So many of our readers swear by noise canceling headphones on a long flight! They’ll make a huge difference during your journey, whether you want to watch a movie, listen to a podcast, or just block everything out and get some sleep. 

They’re also great to have at your destination! Wear them to relax and unwind at the end of a long sightseeing day or while getting some work done at a cafe. 

The Bose QuietComfort wireless headphones are the TFG top pick, as they’re comfortable, sleek, and have tons of great features.  

Bombas Everyday Compression Socks

Compression Socks for the Flight

A trip to Paris means a LOT of time spent on your feet, and a great way to take care of your feet and legs is by using compression socks on your flight! They’re always on our readers’ lists of what to take to Paris . 

Sitting on a long flight can cause swelling and discomfort, both during the flight and after you land. Wearing compression socks will help to maintain healthy blood flow and reduce fluid retention, so your feet and legs will feel invigorated and ready to explore.  

The Bombas compression socks are especially popular and soft yet add enough compression for relief to the legs. Read our review of them here .

Some of our readers also like to wear their compression socks on days that they know they’ll be walking and/or standing for long periods of time. They’re also great recovery socks!

Mersea Classic Travel Wrap

Warm Layer if It Gets Chilly

Flights can get quite chilly, so keep cozy with a warm layer! A lightweight cashmere sweater is always a comfy and chic option to snuggle into, and it won’t take up much space in your bag if you need to pack it away. 

Merino wool sweatshirts and sweaters are awesome because they’re warming yet temperature-regulating and breathable so that you won’t overheat in them. 

Some readers opt for a scarf or wrap , like the reader-fave Mersea Travel Wrap , that can be used as a blanket, pillow, and stylish accessory all in one! 

Sightseeing Essentials for Paris

With so much to see and do, these handy sightseeing must-haves will keep you comfortable and keep your valuable items safe, so be sure to add them to your Paris checklist ! 

Quince Italian Leather Crossbody Bag

Day Bag for Wandering Around

The best purse for Paris travel might just be a crossbody ! They’re compact and comfortable to carry, make reaching for your essentials quick and convenient, and they’re a more secure option. 

The Quince Italian leather crossbody is a gorgeous option that’s luxurious yet affordable, with the perfect amount of room for a day’s necessities.

If you prefer an anti-theft option for peace of mind, the Travelon messenger bag is always a top pick with readers. TFGers also say that the Sherpani Prima anti-theft crossbody makes a great crossbody bag for Paris .

Shop Travelon Anti-Theft Backpack: Macy’s | Kohl’s

If you need more storage space for the day, a backpack is a handy and comfy option, but make sure it’s secure! An anti-theft backpack is ideal for Paris, as pickpocketing can be an issue. 

Our readers LOVE this anti-theft backpack from Travelon . It’s neutral in design, so it’ll match any outfit. It has sleek fabric that’s super high quality. And while it sits on your back and out of sight, there are plenty of security features to deter theft and give you peace of mind.

Find out how to avoid overpacking with these tips downsizing one reader’s travel wardrobe!

Bandolier Pebble Leather Crossbody

Crossbody Phone Case to Protect Your Device

If you know you’ll be snapping tons of photos, consider using a crossbody phone case throughout your trip! These handy phone cases allow you to carry your phone around your neck, so you can quickly get that perfect photo! The security feature is another reason they make fabulous travel essentials for Paris . 

One reader says that her Bandolier Emma phone case was super convenient on her Paris trip for snapping tons of photos and keeping her phone safe and always in sight. 

Lo & Sons Leather Wallet

Travel Wallet for Money and ID

Keep your ID, cards, and cash safe with a great travel wallet . It’s best to go for something slim and easy to stash in a secure pocket of your bag. 

Check out Lo & Sons slim travel wallet . It can hold essential cards and euros in the zippered compartment and will easily fit into any purse. As a bonus, you can wear it around your wrist to travel light as you grab your morning coffee and croissant! 

Shop Ray-Ban Aviator Sunglasses: Nordstrom | Ray-Ban

Sunglasses to Protect Eyes

If sunny skies are in the forecast, sunglasses should definitely be on your packing list for France . There’s so much to see, so wearing a quality pair of stylish shades will do double duty of preventing eye strain and elevating your outfit! 

Don’t forget a protective travel glasses case ! Readers have also been obsessed with this Face Shadow double glasses case , as it boasts two sleeves (amazing if you’re switching off between eyeglasses and sunglasses) that are lined with soft microfiber and come in a wide range of fun colors and prints. 

Wallaroo Victoria Fedora Sun Hat

If you plan on visiting Paris in the summer, TFG readers’ tips always include sun-protective gear, including sun hats . A wide-brimmed hat will be a lifesaver when there’s limited shade. A packable hat, like the reader-favorite Wallaroo sun hats , is especially convenient for easily stashing in your bag when not needed! 

Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Reusable Water Bottle 

Staying hydrated is obviously super important, especially with all of the activity you’ll be doing. Rather than continuously buying water bottles, opt for a reusable water bottle that you can carry in your Paris travel bag. One of the most amazing things about Paris is that there are water fountains all over the city! You can easily fill up your bottle with fresh drinking water whenever you need it, so be sure to add one to your list of things to pack for Paris.

Check out our customizable packing lists for international destinations to suit your unique needs and style!

WANDF 18″ Foldable Travel Duffle Bag

Packable Bag for Souvenir Shopping

For all of your fashion finds and souvenirs to bring back home, a packable tote bag or packable duffle bag will definitely come in handy! 

Packable tote bags and backpacks are great for stashing in your day bag to whip out for any purchases you make or if you’re getting groceries. They could be used as a personal item or carry on, too. 

A lot of readers use their packable duffles to fill with their travel goodies and then check their suitcase on the way home, while others fill theirs with laundry to check, keeping their valuable souvenirs with them in their carry on. They’re incredibly convenient either way! 

Anti Theft Essentials for Paris

While Paris is generally quite safe, it is known for being a city where pickpocketing occurs, especially in very crowded or tourist hotspots. The best way to keep your valuables safe from theft is by using anti-theft travel accessories , so definitely add at least one to your France packing list ! 

Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet

One of the best travel hacks for keeping money completely protected is a bra wallet ! Bra wallets are the ultimate no-fuss way to hold emergency cash and cards, staying completely out of sight and out of reach from any pickpockets. 

The Compass Rose bra wallet is the top choice with readers, as it’s designed with soft bra materials so it’s ultra-comfortable, and it can securely attach to not only various areas of a bra but also to underwear and clothes! 

Pacsafe Coversafe 75 Neck Pouch

Neck Wallet 

A neck wallet is another convenient tool for keeping your valuables safe, as no one would ever see it or suspect it’s hidden under your clothing! A lot of readers agree that you don’t feel or notice them once they’re on, and they’re an amazing way to have a worry-free trip! 

Plus, there are so many different ways you can wear them depending on your outfit and what feels best. 

Alpha Keeper Money Belt

Money Belt 

Money belts are designed to be worn underneath your clothing, seamlessly hidden! Money belts are slim and adjustable, so it’s easy to achieve a super comfortable fit that you won’t even notice when you’re out walking around.

Some travelers choose to use a money belt as their main wallet, which can be incredibly convenient. Just be sure to never access it in public where thieves could potentially see it! Instead, go to a private place or a restroom where you can open it up and grab the money you’ll need. 

SCOTTeVEST Water Repellent Rhonda Jacket | Sizes S-XXL

Clothing With Hidden Pockets

Rather than adding anti-theft accessories, you could instead opt for clothing with anti-theft features built in! 

There are some seriously amazing pickpocket-proof clothing on the market that’ll allow you to explore your destination without the need for a purse or anti-theft accessories! Though when paired with an anti-theft purse or other accessories, you’ll truly have the utmost peace of mind.

From underwear to jackets to scarves, take a look at some of the best clothing that’s designed with hidden pockets here ! 

Electronic Essentials for Paris

As you’ll likely be traveling with at least a few electronics, you’ll need to be sure you have all of the corresponding chargers, adapters, and organizers to keep your devices powered up and protected.

Newvanga Universal Travel Adapter

Travel Adapter for Electronics

If you’re not from Europe, a travel adapter is one of the most important things to bring to Paris so you can plug in all of your devices. 

While there are many adapters that are specific to the European outlets, frequent travelers vouch for a universal adapter , which has a plug for countries all around the world! If you’re an Apple user, readers love their World Travel Adapter Kit that works for phones, iPads, and laptops. 

Anker Portable Charger

Portable Charger for Devices

Along with your phone charger, pack a portable charger to keep your battery full while on the go. Things like taking photos and using maps on your phone (both of which you’ll likely be doing a lot of) drain a lot of your phone’s battery, and the last thing you’d want is a dead phone (or having to sit and wait around for your phone to charge.) 

A portable charger will be among the most handy Paris travel essentials , so definitely keep one in your sightseeing bag! Readers love this slim and quick-charging option from Anker .  

BAGSMART Electronic Organizer

Travel Cord Organizer 

Keep all of your cords and chargers neat and tangle free with a handy travel cord organizer ! Readers swear by them, as they’re lightweight and easy to pack but make a world of a difference by keeping everything in its place and in perfect condition. 

They’re especially convenient if you’re traveling with adapters and portable chargers, which are both essential for trips to Paris! 

Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack

Backpack to Protect a Laptop

If you’re traveling with a laptop, one of the most protective and comfortable ways to carry it is with a laptop backpack . They’re designed with a padded laptop sleeve to protect it from pressure or accidental rough handling and often come with great organizational features.  

Laptop backpacks are equally great for use as a personal item on your flight and for strolling around your destination if you’re a remote worker. 

A new favorite is the Calpak Luka backpack . It has so many organization features, fits a 15” laptop, has a trolley sleeve, and is scratch-resistant. The Matein laptop backpack is another major reader favorite. It’s spacious and super lightweight, so it can store a lot, plus it has water-resistant fabric, a USB charging port, a trolley sleeve, and anti-theft features.

Luggage Essentials for Paris

Of course, when planning all the things to take to Paris , you’ll also need to make sure it’s all packed in the right luggage ! Whether carry on or checked luggage, hardside or softside , make sure your suitcase is lightweight and sturdy enough for rough handling at the airport and rolling over the cobblestone streets of Paris! 

Carry On Suitcase 

Our readers recommend a durable carry on suitcase that fits European airline requirements. (Be sure to check with your specific airline to make sure your suitcase will definitely fit!)

The Samsonite Omni is a TFG-favorite. At 20”, readers say it fits in the overhead compartment of most international airlines. It’s has smooth 360-degree spinner wheels and a scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell that looks sleek and will hold up beautifully to wear and tear. 

Read on to see whether a backpack, wheeled suitcase or even a hybrid is best for your travel adventure!

Shop Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside: Amazon | Travelpro

If you want a softside option, the ultimate reader favorite brand is Travelpro. Their Platinum Elite soft luggage 20” has spinner wheels, organizational pockets on the front, a USB port, can even hold a laptop, and is expandable. 

Review the hardside suitcase article and the softside suitcase article to see which luggage works for you!

Find out the most popular Europe travel bag styles according to our readers along with their tried and tested reviews.

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes for Carry On Travel

If you’re looking to optimize your packing space, then packing cubes are an absolute must, especially if you’re packing for Paris in a carry-on . They’re not only a fantastic way to organize your clothing items by category and be able to see everything clearly in your suitcase, but will compress everything to make packing (and unpacking) an absolute breeze. They’re absolute game-changers, especially for any over-packers out there!  

Find some helpful tips on how to pack for Paris using packing cubes to organize your belongings, check out our video ! 

Shop HIBAG Compression Bags: Amazon | Walmart

Compression Bags for Bulkier Things

If you’re an over-packer, are packing for a long-term stay, or are trying to fit bulkier items in your luggage, compression bags can be a huge help. They’ll drastically reduce the space your clothing takes up, allowing you to fit all your clothes and travel essentials for Paris in your suitcase — even a carry on! 

Readers love them for backpacking, too. 

Bagsmart Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

Hanging Toiletry Bag

When traveling abroad, toiletries can be a difficult thing to pack. If you’re traveling with a carry-on, take a look at this ultimate guide on the 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-ons for Europe so you’ll be fully prepared! 

When it comes to storing your toiletries, pick a toiletry bag that’s practical — it should be sturdy, easy to keep clean, and have great organizational features! 

Readers particularly love hanging toiletry bags , as they won’t take up precious counter space in your bathroom and allow you to see everything clearly, so there’s no need to rummage through anything!  

Worried that all your toiletries, makeup, skincare, and hair styling tools won’t fit into your suitcase? Read these tips on how to make the most of limited space without sacrificing your beauty routine!

What are your tips on what to pack for a trip to Paris ? Share with us in the comments below!

For more Paris packing tips, please read:

• Ten-Step Packing Guide for Paris
• What to Wear in Paris Packing List
• What to Wear in Paris in Summer
• What to Wear in Paris in Winter
• Best Travel Dresses for Paris
• French Fashion Tips
• What Shoes to Pack for Paris
• Best Luggage for Paris
• What to Pack for Paris Olympics

Suggested travel resources:

• Lonely Planet France (Country Guide)
• Travel Shoes for Europe
• The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe

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I hope you’ve found these tips on what to pack for trip to Paris helpful. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

35 comments.

Hi there! As a student aboard, I wish to take care of all the things I am packing, but I searched for the list of restricted items in luggage , they say that liquids are not allowed in the luggage bag or in the cabin bag (only transparent 100 ml is allowed , to be specific) … What should I do?? Help?

Hi Megha, thank you for reaching out! You might find TFG’s ultimate guide to packing toiletries a good place to start to help you downsize: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/toiletries/

Solid toiletries are a great way of helping you pack less liquids: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/solid-toiletries-for-travel/

For more suggestions, I would recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their awesome advice.

Hope this helps!

Hi! Family going to Paris this month how show we dress and what should we visit??

Hi Tecia, how exciting!!! You help with your packing, check out our Parisian packing guide: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-paris-packing-list-and-capsule-wardrobe-ideas/ If you need any more tips, we also have a dedicated guide to Paris full of advice from what to wear for the weather to recommendations for toiletries, luggage,transportation, accommodation, tours: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/paris-ebook/ You need to plan your packing for winter clothes as it might be both cold and wet. For suggestions for what to do, we would recommend that you join TFG’s free facebook community and post them there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It is a fabulous group of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and suggestions to share. Hope this helps. Have an amazing time in Paris with your family! ?

This was very helpful! This covered a lot of details I normally wouldn’t have thought of. Thanks you for this!!

Hi Erica. Yay, so pleased you found this article helpful for your packing! ? Happy travels!

Hi! I’m going to Paris in April sightseeing, and am travelling light. The weather will be around 15C (59 F). Should I take my black rain parka or black wool mid-length coat?

Hi Laura, thank you for reaching out! The weather is not all that predictable, particularly temperature and whether it will rain. Your best bet is genuinely to wait until about 3 days before you fly and see how the temperatures are shaping up to ensure that you have packed the most appropriate clothing. If you travel with your wool mid length coat, you should be able to easily pick up an umbrella in Paris. If you need any more wardrobe tips, we recently created a brand new ebook, too: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/paris-ebook/ Hope this helps. Have an amazing trip!!

Is it ok to wear a long sleeve denim dress in March in Paris?

Hi Kimmie, thank you for reaching out! Sounds like a perfect outfit choice for Paris, it would just depend on the weather and how warm you would be, so remember to check the weather forecast before your departure dates to ensure that you have packed the most appropriate clothing for the temperatures. You may find this article helpful about different ways to wear and layer a dress: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/versatile-dresses-one-dress-many-ways/ Hope this helps. Have an awesome trip to Paris!! 🙂

Are black leggings with comfy boots good for day wear?

Hi Patti, thank you for your question! While leggings shouldn’t replace trousers, they’re great as layers in the months that are transitioning from hot to cold weather and vice versa. You can easily wear them under a dress or skirt and use them with a long tunic or sweater in the cold, and they would be perfect to pair with your comfy boots. For more ideas about what to pack for Paris, have a look at this 10 step guide: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guide-for-paris/ Hope this helps!

I hate wearing scarves will I be kicked out of Paris

Hi Nancy, you should wear what you feel comfortable in!! When packing if you don’t wear the item of clothing like a scarf at home then you don’t need to when on vacation! Hope this helps! 🙂

I’m going to paris in June and my kids have no idea what to wear can you help me ?

Hi Patrica, take a look at some of the posts at this link https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/family-packing-tips/ Hope this helps!

My experience is Paris is that many women do wear heels but they are generally no higher than 2 1/2” and often pumps. One of the things I have noticed is how elegantly they navigate the cobblestoned streets in them. I always come back thinking I should wear heels more often when out walking.

great feedback!

Are black leggings with a black riding boot to the knee with a trendy tunic appropriate for Paris this Fall?

Hi Susan, thank you for reaching out. While leggings shouldn’t replace trousers, they’re great as layers in the months that are transitioning from hot to cold weather and vice versa. You can easily wear them under a dress or use them with a long tunic or sweater in the cold, and they would be perfect to pair with your comfy boots. I like wearing solid black leggings with long sleeved button down blouses because they usually cover all the important areas and the blouse is comfortable yet dressy at the same time. To get you the best feedback for your question, I have gone ahead and scheduled it to appear on TFG’s facebook page. Our readers are the best at answering questions like yours so please keep your eyes out for their replies from Tuesday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/ . For any destination, so long as you’re dressed appropriately for the weather, the culture, and your planned activities, your aim should always be to dress for your personal comfort level vs trying to blend in. Hope this helps you with your packing. Have an amazing time! ?

Hi Susan, here is the thread to our readers answers to your question: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/posts/2722061707817480 Hope this helps!

One of the best articles I have read so far on what to pack and quality items to order thank you.. and I have read a lot of articles and travel a fair amount.

Hi Marianne, thank you so much for sharing your lovely feedback with us, we really appreciate it!!! ? So pleased you enjoyed the article. ? Happy travels!

As a plus-size fashionista, what are the options? We have 40 hours (a very long and intentional layover).

This was super helpful! I’ll be going in September & will make sure to throw some scarves in my bag now! Thank you!

Thanks Janee glad you found it helpful!

Would capris on an adult woman be appropriate wear in Paris?

If you wear capris, I’d choose a classic color like navy or black, in a good fabric with a tailored fit.

Can you suggest places to shop in Paris. Not looking for expensive shopping. Also any suggestion on places for jwellery shopping.

Thanks in advance for your suggesting things.

Hi Garima, this is our shopping guides to Paris: https://travelfashiongirl.com/shopping-in-paris/ and https://travelfashiongirl.com/top-paris-shopping-destinations/

Hello can you guide me on what to wear to paris and madrid for the first week of April? Thank you!

What do you wear to Paris during the winter?

These guides can help you pack for Paris in winter: https://travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-for-paris/ and https://travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-paris-in-winter/ have an awesome trip!

First, thank you so much for all the tips to Paris.

I am going to Paris in March 2019, very soon. I have a pair comfy boots (mid long boots not ankle boots) , is it ok if I wear them with black pants pr black skirt …but not an ankle boots? Could I wear this pair of boots to dinner as well with a dress is it possible ? Because I don’t want to carry another black pair of shoes in my luggage. And March in Paris, do I need a wool coat?

Thanks heaps.

Hi Lan, so pleased you have found the article helpful! Sounds like a fantastic choice of footwear paired with stylish outfits, ideal for Paris. For March a pair of boots are very practical and they are also a European footwear staple. The best advice is to make sure your shoes are comfortable for all the walking you are bound to do so as long as your boots are comfy then they will be awesome to pack! About your wool coat, it entirely depends on the weather forecast. It’s important to research the weather closer to your departure dates for the most accurate indication on what coat to bring, if there is lots of rain forecasted then you may need to consider packing a coat which is waterproof. Hope this answers your question. Have an incredible trip to Paris! 🙂

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NBC Select Travel Awards 2024: The best duffels, backpacks and weekenders

At NBC Select, we spend hours researching and testing products so you can be more selective with your purchases. For our first-ever NBC Select Travel Awards, we spent months thoroughly testing numerous products covering a variety of travel categories.

We flew across the globe to Japan and Paris with suitcases , took train rides around New York City with weekenders and duffels in tow and packed bags full of packing cubes , toiletry bags and noise-canceling headphones to road trip across the East Coast. After all that testing, our editors sat down to choose products deserving of NBC Select’s stamp of approval.

Below are our award-winning duffels, weekenders and backpacks , plus information about how we evaluated each product.

SKIP AHEAD How we picked the best bags | Best duffel bags | Best backpacks | Best weekender bags

select We tested over 50 travel accessories for our first ever Travel Awards — these are our favorites

How we picked the best travel bags .

The backpack, the weekender and the duffel are all bags that need to serve multiple functions while on a trip. We fill them with whatever we can’t fit in our suitcases, throw our essentials inside them for overnight getaways and use them to carry our laptops and water bottles on planes, trains, and automobiles. They are versatile and multipurpose, making it useful to keep at least one at home when traveling. Here’s how we evaluated travel bags to find NBC Select’s 2024 Travel Award winners.

• Zippers, handles and straps : To ensure zippers glide smoothly and don’t get stuck at any point, we opened and closed each bag numerous times when it was empty and full. We also considered how strong the bags’ handles and straps were, including how they felt when we held or wore them on our bodies.
• Structure and organization : We assessed how each bag’s structure impacted our ability to pack it easily — for example, whether it stayed open while we added clothing or flopped over and whether it was too stiff to overstuff or just flexible enough. We counted how many outfits (and, if applicable, how many pairs of shoes) fit inside the bags, plus what type of organizational features they offer, including built-in dividers, pockets, and pouches.
• Comfortability : After filling our bags to the brim, we ensured they felt comfortable carrying for long and short periods. We carried them as the brand intended: on our backs or over our shoulders.
• Durability : We noted the material each bag is made from and how well it withstands being tossed around during travel. We also considered water resistance.

The best duffel bags

Best overall: calpak luka duffel.

Calpak Luka Duffel

With its spacious main compartment, exterior and interior pockets, exterior shoe compartment and trolley sleeve, this bag makes for the perfect travel and daily duffel. “I love that I can use this bag for trips as well as in my everyday life as a gym bag. I didn’t find that with the other duffels I tested, so I appreciated this,” says Zoe Malin , NBC Select associate updates editor. “The size of this bag and how lightweight it is makes it a perfect workout bag for me. I put my sneakers, a change of clothes, weights, a towel, toiletries and a water bottle inside it to go to yoga after work.”

The soft and puffy polyester bag is also durable, easy to clean and water-resistant. “I had to walk to the train in the rain with this bag and everything inside was totally dry,” says Malin. “I just wiped water off the bag in the bathroom of the train station with paper towels.”

Best large capacity: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel comes in four sizes — 40L, 55L, 70L and 100L — so you can choose the capacity that’s best for your travels. The duffel is made from 100% recycled fabrics, plus it has a durable and weather-resistant exterior.

On the inside, this spacious bag has interior pockets that are similar to a carry-on suitcase. It also closes and opens easily since the zippers glide easily, says Mili Godio , NBC Select updates editor. “The only thing I wish is that it had more pockets, especially for smaller items like my wallet and keys, but the ones it does have are super spacious.”

The best backpacks

Best overall: calpak laptop backpack.

Calpak Laptop Backpack

This Calpak backpack is great for frequent travelers looking for a large, durable bag to hold essentials of all sizes, as well as a laptop. The backpack has exterior and interior pockets, a water bottle holder and a trolley sleeve so you can slide it onto your luggage. “Calpak’s backpack has completely changed how I travel,” says Bianca Alvarez , an NBC Select associate reporter who’s a super commuter . She travels from Virginia to New York City every week for work. “I tossed my old backpacks after using this one because it makes my travel days easier,” she says.

Alvarez says storage and space are a guarantee with this bag due to its plethora of organizational features. She especially loves its interior pockets. They’re located near the top of the bag rather than the bottom, which prevents her from having to rummage through everything packed inside to find what she’s looking for.  Alvarez says the bag’s main compartment can easily fit clothes, shoes and cosmetics bags, and there’s a separate compartment for her laptop and notebooks.

Best for commuting: Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

Dagne Dover’s Dakota Backpack is ideal for commuters, like NBC Select staff who brought it back and forth to the office. “I’ve been using this backpack for two months as my work bag and it’s been a major upgrade from my last situation,” says Rebecca Rodriguez , NBC Select editorial projects manager. The backpack has padded straps, making it comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and it has compartments and pockets to store whatever you’re traveling with.

Whether you’re commuting in the rain or accidentally spilled your morning coffee , no worries — this backpack will keep your items protected. “The backpack got dirty a couple of times while I used it, but the neoprene material was super easy to clean with soap and warm water,” says Rodriguez.

Best outdoors: Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure

Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure

While the Orvis Trekkage backpack is specifically designed for outdoor adventures like hiking and camping, it has features that allow you to use it in everyday life, including a laptop pocket and a hidden security pocket for valuables. The bag is made from heavy-duty recycled, water-repellent fabric, and its main pocket is lockable making it easier to protect your items while outdoors camping or just traveling. There are also expandable side pockets and a built-in hydration reservoir.

“This bag is big without looking like it belongs on the 'Amazing Race,'” says Rosalie Sparaco, NBC senior social media editor. “It has a ton of space, although it could potentially use more internal pockets since it was easy to lose stuff.” She also says the backpack is comfortable to carry thanks to its padded back panel and curved ergonomic shoulder straps. If you need extra support, you can use the bag’s adjustable sternum strap and adjustable, removable waist strap. The backpack also fits under the seat of a plane.

The best weekenders

Best overall: dagne dover landon carryall.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

The magic behind Dagne Dover’s Landon Carryall lies in its structure, says Malin: “It has shape, so it stays open while I’m packing and never flops over, yet it’s flexible and soft, so I can overstuff it without any issues.”  The bag is also expandable. “You can unsnap the sides of the bag to make it bigger, which is such a great option,” says Malin. “I expand it for longer trips, but leave it snapped for overnight trips when I don’t need a ton of space.”

The organizational features this bag offers vary by size. It’s available in extra small, small, medium, large and extra large options — the bigger the bag, the more extensive its organization features are. Because of this, we recommend the medium, large and extra large options for traveling (the extra small and small Carryalls function more as everyday handbags, based on our testers’ experiences). They’re designed with a laptop carrier, an exterior phone pocket, interior side pockets, a key leash and an attached zip-top pouch. The larger bags also come with a shoe bag and a detachable adjustable crossbody strap.

Best for a long weekend: July Carry All Weekender Plus

July Carry All Weekender Plus

If you need a weekender bag that fits enough clothes and toiletries to last you a few days, this one from July is exactly what you’re looking for. “I’m very impressed by how incredibly spacious this bag is,” says Ari Night, NBC Select editorial assistant. “Not only does it fit multiple outfits, but it also has segmented pockets that keep everything organized inside.” The bag’s clamshell opening allows it to lie flat making it  easier for packing, and there’s a padded pocket in the center to put delicate items like a laptop or tablet . This weekender also has a hidden internal pocket with a magnetic opening for valuables like jewelry, an exterior zip pocket and a luggage sleeve. It also  comes with a detachable adjustable shoulder strap.

Why trust NBC Select?

Products underwent an eight-week trial before being selected as our favorite in their respective categories. We utilized our editors as shopping and trying experts. Each editor was given the same criteria during the testing period to ensure each item was held to the same standards and procedures. We looked at spaciousness, durability, comfort, zippers and much more. You can read more about our process here .

What our badge means

When a product carries the NBC Select badge, you can trust that our team of editors as shopping experts and professionals vetted the item thoroughly. First and foremost, we are journalists, so we will always do our research and reporting.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Select Staff on NBC News

46 Stores To Buy a Suitcase in Paris at the Last Minute (All Budgets)

No time to search for a suitcase or order one online? If you need one at the last minute, I’ve found all the places where you can buy one, whether in leather stores, department stores, or brand stores. Some are cheap, while others are more expensive.

Table of Contents

In a glance

❤️ My  favorite: Rayon d’Or

Why? Because it has a wide range of suitcases for all budgets and a lot of stores in the capital.

In leather stores and specialized stores

Bagage bon voyage.

64 Boulevard Marguerite de Rochechouart 75018 Paris

  View this post on Instagram   Une publication partagée par Bagage Bon Voyage (@bagages_bon_voyage)

Prices: from €29 to €190

Bagage Bon Voyage sells a range of low-priced luggage with quite a choice of colours .

The store also sells pricier Samsonite and even Jump luggage (more than €100).

Luggage has a one or two-year guarantee , depending on the suitcase.

What I like: Recommendations from enthusiastic people

Website: https://www.bagagebonvoyage.com/ (in French only)

Rayon d’or €

• 178 Rue du Temple 75003 Paris
• 85 rue Rambuteau 75001 Paris
• 116 Rue de Rennes 75006 Paris
• 93 Rue Saint Lazare 75009 Paris
• 39 Rue de l’Annonciation 75016 Paris
• 72 Avenue du Général Leclerc 75014 Paris
• 7 Boulevard de Denain 75010 Paris
• 81 Boulevard de Strasbourg 75010 Paris
• 8 Rue des 4 Frères Peignot 75015 Paris

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Rayon d’or Bagages (@rayondorbagages)

Prices: from €19.90 to €575

With more than 60 years of expertise in selling luggage , this store is the perfect place to get a suitcase.

It sells suitcases with two or four wheels, either rigid or soft, that can be extended (or not) for all budgets, starting with basic models between €30 and €40, pricier ones cost around €100 and top-end models at €500.

You will also find large-format luggage and backpacks.

There is a wide range of brands such as Snowball, Samsonite, Sohito and even American Tourister.

There are special offers every month on big brands.

Rayon d’Or has many stores in the capital.

What I like: Quite a large choice

Website: https://www.rayondor-bagages.fr/ (in French only)

Au Vrai Sellier

219 Rue de Bercy 75012 Paris

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par DELSEY PARIS (@delseyofficial)

Prices: Average price €100 / €200

Au Vrai Sellier is a leather store whose bags are functional, stylish and of good quality . Known for its savoir-faire for 4 generations , it sells a large selection of luggage at attractive prices and from all brands and it has a great customer service in case of repairs.

Find roomy Samsonite luggage as well as Eastpak, Delsey or American Tourister suitcases in the store.

What I like: More expensive but quality products

Website: https://www.au-vrai-sellier.fr/

La Bagagerie

• 12 Rue Tronchet 75008 Paris
• 41 Rue du Four 75006 Paris
• 74 Rue de Passy 75016 Paris
• Tour Maine-Montparnasse 17 Rue de l’Arrivée 75015 Paris

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par LA BAGAGERIE (@labagagerieofficial)

Prices: from €125 to €275

Whether you are looking for large format luggage or cabin baggage , whether in polycarbonate or in synthetic fabric , this leather shop with a handmade savoir-faire has everything you need.

Its quality cases are the result of years of work and expertise in the field.

The brand collaborates with the Paris Saint-Germain football club and has worked with renowned designers such as Gaspard Yurkievich.

What I like: Handmade savoir – faire

Website: https://labagagerie.com/en/ (in French only)

Malles-Bertault

135 Rue d’Aboukir 75002 Paris (1st floor)

Prices: From €75 to €1450

Malles-Bertault is known for its luggage, after-sales service and airline assistance .

In this store, you will find all the major luggage brands such as Samsonite, Jump, Airplus, American Tourister, Victorinox and Delsey.

There are all sorts of colors , materials and sizes to suit your needs.

What I like: Great repair and exchange service

Website: https://www.malles-bertault.com/

La Voyagerie

14 Rue des Sablons, 75116 Paris (in the Galerie des Belles Feuilles)

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par RIMOWA (@rimowa)

Prices: From €179 to €1750

La Voyagerie sells luxury luggage from leading brands such as Rimowa, FPM, TUMI, Samsonite and Horizn Studios .

Whether you are looking for hold luggage, cabin baggage, two-wheeled luggage or four-wheeled luggage, soft luggage or rigid luggage, you will find what you are looking for.

What I like: A selection of high-quality suitcases

Website: https://www.lavoyagerie-paris.fr/ (in French only)

In regular stores

Even though they are not specialized in selling luggage, these stores can be very useful to help out.

What I like: Good price-quality ratio, competitive prices

• 1 Rue de Rivoli 75004 Paris
• 43 Rue de Rivoli 75001 Paris
• 120 Rue Rambuteau 75001 Paris
• 86 Rue du Faubourg Saint Antoine 75012 Paris
• 2 Boulevard Haussmann 75009 Paris
• 45 Rue de la Chaussée d’Antin 75009 Paris

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par HEMA France (@hemafrance)

HEMA is a store that sells everything, even their own brand of suitcases.

Their suitcases cost from €62 to €129  for the biggest sizes.

The designs are relatively simple and the colours are basic (black, blue).

Website: https://www.hema.com/ (in French only)

• 2 porte Pont-Neuf 75001 Paris (forum des Halles niveau 2)
• 13 Rue du Commandant René Mouchotte 75014 Paris
• 25 Boulevard de Belleville 75011 Paris
• 2 Rue François Ponsard 75016 Paris
• 147 bis Rue Cardinet 75017 Paris

Prices: from €25 to €999

Darty sells suitcases for all budgets and from different brands: Delsey, Little Marcel, Bluestar and so on.

Website: https://www.darty.com/ (in French only)

• 1-7 Rue Pierre Lescot 75001 Paris (galerie commerciale Westfield Portes Berger)
• 109 Rue Saint-Lazare 75009 Paris (passage du Havre)
• 136 Rue de Rennes, 75006 Paris
• 74 Avenue des Champs Elysées 75008 Paris (galerie du Claridge)

Prices: from €25 to €511

Fnac has a suitcase and travel bag section to help you out. Find entry-level and mid-range suitcases from brands such as Delsey, American Tourister, Little Marcel etc.

Website: https://www.fnac.com/ (in French only)

In department stores

In department stores, you will find mid-range and high-end suitcases (most suitcase models are around €200) .

What I like: We are proposed the best brands

Galeries Lafayette

• 40 Boulevard Haussmann 75009 Paris
• 7 Rue Linois 75015 Paris

On the 6th floor of the Galeries Lafayette, you will find a sales area for Delsey suitcases as well as RIMOWA, American Tourister, Lipault, Rains, Jump, Le Tanneur, Lancel, Eastpak and many others.

Website: https://www.galerieslafayette.com/ (in French only)

52 Rue de Rivoli 75004 Paris

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par American Tourister (@americantourister_eu)

Find a selection of luggage from major brands : Samsonite, Delsey, Jump, Kipling, Lipault, American Tourister, Eastpak etc.

Suitcases cost from €100 to €900.

Website: https://www.bhv.fr/ (in French only)

At brand stores

If you are looking for a particular brand, it may be better to go to their store directly to enjoy any of their models.

Here are some addresses of brand stores in Paris.

• 12 Boulevard des Capucines 75009 Paris
• 1 Cr du Havre 75008 Paris (shopping center Saint Lazare)

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par SAMSONITE (@mysamsonite)

Samsonite is known for its durable and well-designed luggage. Their suitcases are made with lightweight and sturdy materials, equipped with multidirectional wheels and effective security systems. Despite higher prices, the quality is evident.

Prices: from €149 to €1100

What I like: The sellers’ advice and the after-sales service

Website:   https://shop.samsonite.com

• 73 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré 75008 Paris
• Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, 40 Bd Haussmann 1er Étage Coupole, 75009 Paris
• Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche, 24 Rue de Sèvres Ground Floor, 75007 Paris

Rimowa offers premium luggage known for its quality. Their aluminum and polycarbonate suitcases provide lightweight durability.

Prices: from €580

What I like: Excellent customer service and advice

Website:   https://www.rimowa.com/fr/en/all-luggage/

• 63 Avenue des Champs-Elysées 75008 Paris
• Rue Saint-Honoré 281, 75008 Paris
• 40 Bd Haussmann Galeries Lafayette, 75008 Paris

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par TUMI (@tumitravel)

Tumi products are renowned for their quality and style. Crafted with premium materials like ballistic nylon and full-grain leather, they offer durability and elegance.

Prices: from €650

What I like: The quality of the products despite high prices

Website:   https://fr.tumi.com/bagages/tous-les-bagages/?srule=price-low-to-high (in French only)

• 8 Boulevard de la Madeleine 75009 Paris
• 3 Av. Mozart, 75016 Paris
• 123 Rue de Rennes, 75006 Paris

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Lipault Paris (@lipaultparis_official)

Lipault products provide style and practicality in the realm of contemporary luggage. Their range includes a variety of suitcases, backpacks, travel bags, and accessories. Crafted from lightweight yet sturdy materials, they are appreciated for their functionality and modern aesthetic.

Prices: from €169

What I like: Good longevity of the products

Website: https://www.lipault.fr/fr/home/ (in French only)

I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!

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Travelfornoobs

The Ultimate Paris Packing List

Paris packing list – all the things you should not forget, what to take in your bag for paris.

You’ve booked your plane ticket and the time of departure is fast approaching? After the joys of such a decision, comes the question of knowing what to put in your suitcase to go to Paris. No need to panic, we have prepared a very complete list of the essential things to bring to make sure you don’t miss anything once you are there.

In order to leave no room for unforeseen events, it’s of course preferable to go through this list a few days before leaving rather than the day before departure, as you might miss some items.

Take the time to read and download it in order to identify the things that you absolutely must pack and that you might miss and that could make you lose time and money if you forget them.

You will also need to think about packing according to the type of accommodation you will be staying in, the different modes of transportation you will use during your trip, the climate and the season, as well as the activities you plan to do.

In order to help you prepare your suitcase, this checklist of the essential things to bring in Paris gathers several categories: clothes, accessories, various objects… It will allow you to have a concrete vision of a typical suitcase for Paris.

An advice, think of keeping some space in your luggage if you wish to bring back souvenirs or to make some clothing shopping on the spot.

Thanks to this travel list, preparing your bag for Paris will be a real child’s play and you will just have to enjoy your adventure!

Note : This article contains affiliate links to Amazon.

• Important hings to do before you go
• Essential documents
• Transport essentials
• Backpack & luggage
• Clothing and shoes
• Hygiene & Toiletries
• Photo, Video & High Tech
• Useful accessories
• Medication and first aid kit
• Activities and Useful Links (+ Printable checklist PDF)

1/ Important things to do before you go

 Prepare your travel itinerary  Apply for a visa (if necessary)  Make your vaccinations (if necessary)  Check-up at the doctor / dentist  Take out a travel insurance  Photocopy or scan important documents (passport)  Write down e-mail and useful phone numbers in your address book  Warn your bank about your trip abroad (if necessary)  Book accomodation for your first night ( Do it now before everything is fully booked! Check the best hotels on Booking )  Download offline applications and maps for Maps.me  Download movies offline   Prepare your favorite music playlist  Turn off or turn down the heat of your house  Empty garbage cans  Water the plants   Give a copy of your house/car keys to a family member or friend  Close doors and windows

2/ Essential documents

Even before you buy your plane ticket, remember to check the validity of your passport : it must be valid for at least six months after your return date (for some countries) and have a blank page. Another tip: send your important documents to a secondary email in case you lose them.

   Passport   ID card    Plane or train ticket (have a paper copy just in case)   Reservation documents (e-ticket, train ticket, hotel reservation)   Visa (if necessary)   International driver’s license, if you wish to rent a car   Health insurance card   Travel insurance   Credit card   Cash   Useful numbers in case of emergency   Itinerary and address of your accommodation (hotel / AirBnB / camping)   Vaccination certificate   Diving license, sailing license, etc.   Some business cards with your contact information, email, blog, website

3/ Transport essentials

The little things to have with you at all times during the flight or the trip by train or bus:

 Phone and charger  Book / Magazine / Kindle / Travel Guide  MP3 player   Chewing gum   Pen + notepad  Travel pillow ( my favorite )  Sleep mask ( my favorite )   Earplugs   Snacks / sandwich   Small water bottle  Nasal ointment for dry nose  Sunglasses   Glasses case   Watch   Hand sanitizer   Disposable face mask   Tissues   Motion sickness medication

4/ Backpack & luggage

 Waterproof dry bag ( my favorite )  Handbag   Travel laundry bag ( my favorite )  Carry-on suitcase ( my favorite )  Travel bag ( my favorite )   Luggage tag ( my favorite )   Travel Packing Organizers ( my favorite )   Rain cover for backpack ( my favorite )   Zippered carry-on bag   Shoe bag ( my favorite )   Fanny pack   Lightweight foldable backpack ( my favorite )

5/ Clothing and shoes

  Socks  Underwear (panties, thongs, bras, briefs, boxers…)  Tank tops  Skirt ♀  Dress ♀  Pajamas  T-shirts  Long sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Short sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Polo shirt ( for her , for him )   Sweatshirt / pullover ( for her , for him )   Jeans   Lightweight pants ( for her , for him )   Money belt ( my favorite )   Shorts   Jogging suit   Jacket / coat   K-way ( for her , for him )   Windbreaker ( for her , for him )  Hat / cap / beanie   Scarf / bandana   Swimsuit   Buff scarf ( my favorite )

For shoes, you will have to choose according to the activities you plan to do:

 Comfortable walking shoes   Shoes for going out (restaurants, bars, clubs…)  Flip-flops (for the beach, showers…) ( for her , for him )  Hiking shoes ( for her , for him )  Sandals ( for her , for him )   Water shoes for walking in water (beaches, waterfalls, rivers…) ( for her , for him )  Light trekking shoes ( for her , for him )  Crocs

6/ Hygiene & Toiletries

 Microfiber towel ( my favorite )   Toilet bag   Portable Travel Bottles ( my favorite )  Toothbrush & toothpaste  Dental floss  Soap   Shampoo   Facial cleanser   Nail clippers   Cotton buds (biodegradable)   Tweezers   Make-up   Deodorant   Comb / Hairbrush   Razor & shaving foam ♂   Biodegradable wipes ( my favorite )   Toilet paper roll   Perfume   Makeup ♀   Contact Lenses   Contact lens product   Pocket mirror

7/ Photo, Video & High Tech

For photographers and videographers:

 Camera  Lens  Memory card  Polarizing filters   ND filter   Extra battery   Charger + cable + plug adapter   Cleaning kit   External hard drive   USB key   Stabilizer   Drone ( my favorite )    Waterproof phone case   Flash   Solar charger ( my favorite )    Gopro ( my favorite )   Waterproof case   Selfie Pole  External battery / Powerbank ( my favorite ) 

Don’t forget:

 Portable speaker  Ipad / Tablet  Laptop PC  External battery  Headphones or noise cancelling headphones ( my favorite )

Useful apps to download before you go to Paris:

 AirBnB  Booking  Couchsurfing  Flush – Public Toilet Finder (Useful for finding toilets!)  Google Maps  Google Translator  Google Trips  Lonely Planet Guide  LoungeBuddy  Maps.me  Meetup  Tripadvisor  Uber  Whatsapp  XE Currency

8/ Useful accessories

The accessories you will take in your bag for Paris will depend on your travel style:

  TSA lock ( my favorite )  Headlamp ( my favorite )  Sleeping bag ( my favorite )  Sheets ( my favorite )  Swiss Army knife (not in the hand luggage!) ( my favorite )  Travel clothesline ( my favorite )  Powdered or liquid detergent  Clothes pegs  Spork ( my favorite )  Ziploc bags  Lighter  Folding umbrella ( my favorite )  Toilet paper  Mosquito repellent ( my favorite )   Mosquito net ( my favorite )   Sunscreen cream  Aloe vera gel   Waterproof pouch for smartphone    For hikers : GPS, map, compass, water bottle   Walking stick ( my favorite )   Anti-sweat talcum powder ( my favorite )   Beach towel ( my favorite )   Sawyer water filter ( must-have !)  Pills to purify non-drinking water   Mask, snorkel, fins   Diving accessories (gloves, dive computer, lamp, knife…)

9/ Medication and first aid kit

I suggest that you consult your doctor and dentist before leaving. Beware of unauthorized medication and remember to keep your vaccinations up to date!

If you have a treatment don’t forget to take your personal medication and your prescription if necessary (or medical certificate).

You can buy a first aid kit already prepared ( my favorite ).

  Cotton buds   Tweezers   Round-tipped scissors   Pairs of single-use latex gloves  Bandages   Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain   Sterile compresses   Disinfectant spray for wounds   Physiological saline solution in pods (wound cleaning)   Condoms and other contraceptives

For longer trips and higher risk locations, we can also add:

  Sterile adhesive skin sutures (steristrips)   Rehydration solutions (in case of dehydration)   Water purification tablets   Water decontamination tablets (Aquatabs or Micropur)   Medication for altitude   Medication for sore throat    Anti-malarial medication   Survival blanket   Tick tweezers   Ointment against itching (antihistamine)   Probiotics for the stomach   Corticosteroid pills and cream   Analgesics (painkillers)   Survival blanket   Cold medicine (decongestant)   Biafine (in case of burns or sunburns)   Broad-spectrum antibiotics without a prescription   Anti-diarrhea tablets (immodium, smecta)

10/ Activities and Useful Links + Printable checklist

You can download the complete travel list in PDF format and print it by clicking here.

Book your hotel in Paris now on Booking.com

AirBnb : Get a discount for your first booking!

Book now your activities in Paris on Getyourguide:

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Watch CBS News

Best TSA-approved locking luggage in 2024

By Leah Groth , Kaylyn McKenna

Edited By Leslie Gornstein , Fox Van Allen , Nina Bradley

Updated on: June 20, 2024 / 7:25 PM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

If you've been using the same bag for years, investing in a great piece (or set) of luggage can upgrade your travel experience. Like the selection of bags we'll show you below, many of the best luggage in 2024 comes equipped with TSA-approved locks. 

Why select a piece of luggage with a TSA-approved lock? As the Transportation Security Administration  explains , if its officers need to inspect your locked, carry-on or  checked luggage , a TSA-approved lock may save you from having your lock cut off. A TSA-approved lock can be opened by TSA officers with a universal master key.

While TSA-approved locks can be placed on luggage you already own, many newer luggage pieces incorporate them right into their design. We've rounded up some of the best luggage pieces with TSA-approved locks. Some of these easy-to-transport bags also offer useful tech features, such as USB outlets and charging ports. 

What is the best TSA-approved locking luggage?

Take a look at our picks for the best TSA-approved locking luggage in 2024. 

Best soft-sided luggage with a TSA-approved lock: Travelpro Platinum Elite spinner 

Best customizable luggage with tsa-approved locks: roam luggage.

• Best TSA-approved luggage with locking pockets : Victorinox Spectra 3.0 luggage  

Best eco-friendly luggage with TSA-approved locks: Paravel Aviator 

• Best budget luggage with TSA-approved locks : Samsonite Omni luggage
• Best TSA-approved locking luggage for international travel: Delsey Paris Chatelet

Best aluminum luggage with TSA-approved locks: Rimowa Original wheeled luggage

• Best large carry-on with TSA-approved locks: Away The Bigger Carry-On luggage

Learn more about each of our selections below.

Available in three carry-on and two checked sizes, and a variety of colors, the Travelpro Platinum Elite spinner offers a great value at a moderate price point. 

The stain-resistant-fabric bag (with leather accents) features a TSA-approved lock, an internal tie-down system, integrated accessory products and a removable, TSA-compliant wet pocket for toiletries. It's rated 4.7 stars (out of 5) on Amazon. 

Why we like the Travelpro Platinum Elite:

• Travelpro offers a lifetime warranty.
• The TSA-approved lock keeps your belongings secure.
• Reviewers praise the bag's durability.

Roam allows you to customize your own suitcase. Start by choosing from one of eight sizes, ranging from a 37-liter capacity carry-on ($450) to a 121-liter large expandable check-in ($675). Then select your colors.

Not feeling creative? You can choose from pre-designed bags, too.

Each Roam luggage piece comes with a TSA-approved lock, so you can keep your belongings secure while traveling with your customized bag.

Why we like Roam luggage: 

• You can heavily customize the suitcase and choose your favorite colors.
• Roam suitcases come with a lifetime warranty.
• Roam luggage comes with a 100-day trial period and a lifetime guarantee.

Best TSA-approved luggage with locking pockets: Victorinox Spectra 3.0 luggage carry-on

The sleek Victorinox Spectra 3.0 is constructed out of Sorplas, a recycled polycarbonate sourced from plastic bottles. The carry-on is a great option for frequent fliers. You can also get the Spectra 3.0 in a medium checked bag or large checked bag.

It offers a lockable section (to secure belongings in case your bag gets left behind), and also an expansion system. The bag boasts ample space for your belongings and TSA-approved locks. 

Why we like the Victorinox Spectra 3.0:

• It expands by up to 20% for extra storage space,
• It offers a lockable quick-access front pocket.
• The carry-on has a dual-tube telescopic handle for easy maneuvering.

It's all in the details with this chic, carbon-neutral carry-on. Paravel makes its Aviator bag in three sizes: two carry-on options, and a larger check-in. Frictionless, carbon-steel-bearing wheels offer 360-degree movement, while a telescopic handle makes walking (or running) through the airport a breeze.

To customize your travel look, don't forget to order a monogrammed cabana tote or cabana bundle. The latter features a monogrammed luggage tag, card case and passport case. 

Why we like the Paravel Aviator carry-on:

• The carry-on is carbon neutral and made with recycled materials.
• Reviewers state that it is easy to maneuver.
• It features a scuff-hiding textured finish.

Best budget luggage with TSA-approved locks: Samsonite Omni luggage

The Samsonite Omni, another polycarbonate suitcase option, offers high quality at a reasonable price point. Features include TSA-approved, side-mounted locks, multidirectional spinner wheels, an interior mesh divider and cross straps. 

You also have the option of purchasing the bag as part of a two- or three-piece set. 

Why we like the Samsonite Omni:

• This is one of the best-selling and well-reviewed suitcases on Amazon.
• It's a premium luggage option available for a more affordable price.
• Comes in a wide range of color options to fit your tastes.

Best TSA-approved locking luggage for international travel: Delsey Paris Chatelet 

With faux-leather accents and rounded edges, the Delsey Paris Chatelet makes for an aesthetic international travel companion. The lightweight polycarbonate model is durable, and features multidirectional double-spinner wheels, a USB charging port and an ergonomic handle. 

The suitcase also comes equipped with laundry and shoe bags, as well as mesh-zippered pockets. Its TSA-approved lock is recessed.

Why we like the Delsey Paris Chatelet:

• The carry-on's polycarbonate shell is lightweight and resistant to cracking.
• An odor-resistant lining helps keep the suitcase from absorbing smells when traveling home with dirty clothes.
• Reviewers praise the carry-on's smooth wheels and easy maneuverability. 

Rimowa's aluminum suitcases have been in the hands of international jet-setters for nearly 100 years. The Rimowa Original Cabin features 360-degree spinner wheels, TSA-approved locks and a telescopic handle that easily glides up and down. Available in black, silver and titanium colors.

You can find Rimowa Original luggage in a carry-on (price shown below), a medium checked bag ($1,650),  a large checked bag ($1,800), a trunk ($1,975) and more.

Why we like the Rimowa Original Cabin carry-on:

• Its aluminum construction protects your belongings much better than soft-sided or polycarbonate luggage.
• This suitcase comes with a lifetime warranty,
• Its sleek metallic material gives this carry-on a trendy, high-end look.
• Available in four colors.

Best large carry-on with TSA-approved locks: Away Bigger Carry-On luggage

The Away Bigger Carry-On polycarbonate bag features a removable, rechargeable battery (for on-the-go phone charging), an easy-to-set, TSA-approved lock and smooth-rolling spinner wheels. 

 If you don't like your Away bag, return it within 100 days for a full refund. It also comes with a lifetime guarantee for defects.

Why we like the Away Bigger carry-on:

• The included, removable charger ensures you'll be able to recharge your phone on the go, even when you can't find an outlet.
• The compression panel can help you fit more clothing into this suitcase when packing.
• It comes with a lifetime warranty.

Away also offers upgraded aluminum editions that are stylistically on par with the James Bond-worthy suitcases sold by Rimowa. The aluminum edition luggage also includes TSA-approved locks.

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Travel Gear and Services

Best Travel Luggage and Suitcases, Both Carry-on and Checked Bags

Written By Patrick DeMoss Commerce Writer

Edited By Michelle Prado McClatchy Commerce

Reviewed by MCCLATCHY COMMERCE CONTENT TEAM

Updated June 29, 2024

We might earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of the links. The McClatchy/Miami Herald Commerce Content team, which is independent from our newsroom, oversees this content.

Traveling is a great adventure as long as you have the best travel luggage and suitcases to make each trip a breeze. We put together a great list of some of the best travel luggage and suitcases that will fit your travel needs or may serve as great gift ideas for the holiday season.

SwissGear Hardside Expandable Luggage

An overpacker’s delight, this expandable 28-inch luggage is built with multiple protective measures for easy and secure travel. We like that this luggage was designed with reinforced grab handles as well as side bumper feet to protect it from cracks and scratches. This luggage also has four multidirectional spinning wheels and a telescopic handle that locks securely so that you can maneuver your way easily through the crowds in an airport.

Inside of this SwissGear Luggage is a split case design allowing you to pack both sides of the luggage while keeping those items separate from each other. One side has a zippered divider panel with a mesh pocket that allows you to view the inside. On the other side are tie-down straps to keep all luggage on that side in place. In the middle of both sections is a wet pouch to keep any liquids you may be traveling with from leaking into your luggage, or to protect any sensitive items from becoming wet.

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

This suitcase is a great deal for Black Friday with 35% off the original price of a trusted name brand, this will serve as a great gift for the regular traveler. The Omni Hardshell Expandable luggage is made of a polycarbonate shell that is lightweight but durable, preventing scratches and cracks. It travels easily thanks to four multidirectional wheels on the bottom that allow it to rotate 360º with ease and a locking retractable handle to help you easily guide it through airport crowds.

Once opened this luggage presents dual-sided packing with a mesh divider on one side, accessible with a zipper, and a cross-strap divider on the other side. We like that this luggage is expandable so that you can fit more than meets the eye. We also enjoy the TSA-approved side lock, which locks the zippers in place so no one can get in except yourself or the TSA agents.

Coolife Hardshell Luggage 3 Piece Set

We love the style of this luggage set, which comes with three pieces: a 20”, a 24”, and a 28”. They come in a variety of colors such as apricot navy, blue, apple green, and champagne so that you can match the style of whoever you may be buying it for. The interior has two sides that are both capable of holding clothing items and one side uses a zippered divider while the other uses cross straps to keep luggage in place.

We enjoy the protective measures on these suitcases since all three come with side bumper feet so that you can set them on their side when storing them, placing them in an overhead bin, or for when they are checked. Another added feature on all three cases is the TSA-approved side lock, which locks the zippers in place to prevent theft. Traveling with them is also an ease with its reinforced handles and 360º spinning wheels with telescopic handles.

Kono Hard Shell Carry-On Luggage

This carry-on luggage is constructed with water-resistant and scratch-resistant polypropylene that looks sleek and is lightweight. The resilience of this carry-on luggage is especially proven through its retractable handle, which can not only lock in three different positions but is sturdy and can withstand heavy weight. We like the quality of the zippers. It can be annoying when zipper teeth get locked up or begin to deform, but the Kono hard shell luggage has YKK zippers that use 5 strands of thread, which prevents the common problems that can occur.

Inside the luggage is dual-sided packing with both sides using a divider. One side uses cross straps to lock any luggage into place, while the other side has a zippered divider, which includes a zipper pocket so you can keep certain items separate. This luggage also has four multi-directional wheels at the bottom that move smoothly and silently.

American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Expandable Luggage

The Moonlight Expandable Luggage from American Tourister is a simple and expandable carry-on luggage. It’s a great gift idea for someone who doesn’t want any frills but still wants great quality and durability. It comes in 16 designs and colors and all are discounted with Amazon’s Black Friday deal. We like that even for a small carry-on bag it can expand an extra 1.5” to accommodate for more luggage, but it won’t compromise its overhead storability.

The top and side handles make this bag easy to travel with when not on its wheels, but once placed upright the multidirectional wheels in conjunction with the retractable handle will make it a breeze to travel through the airport. We like that this suitcase comes with a 10-year warranty just in case of any production defects.

Amazon Basics 3 Piece Hardside Set

A highly rated 3-piece luggage set, these Amazon Basics are Amazon’s Choice for some of the best luggage, and now with 15% off they can be a perfect gift for a prospective traveler. The three cases included in this set are a 20” that’s a perfect size for carry-on, a 24”, and a 28”. All three cases serve their purpose depending on your trip length, but all have the same 360º spinning wheels at the base as well as telescopic handles for ease of travel.

The exterior of these cases is an ABS hard shell that is durable, scratch-resistant, and light so you aren’t carrying more weight than you need to. The interior is lined with 150D polyester making it waterproof and easy to clean. Each case has a cross-strap divider on one side of the interior and a zippered mesh divider on the other side with a convenient mesh pocket.

Delsey Paris Helium Aero Hardside Luggage 2 Piece Set

For those that are searching for a carry-on and checked bag this 2-piece set is 23% off this Black Friday and features two very reliable luggage pieces. The first piece is a 19” carry-on. We love this piece because it opens up from the front to reveal a pocket perfect for a laptop, a book you want to read on the plane, or any necessary documents you want to easily access. The second piece is a 29” case which is perfect for checked luggage and is great for up to 9 days worth of travel.

The interior of both cases includes a mesh divider on one side and tie-down straps on the other to ensure luggage doesn’t move around or mix while traveling. Both cases are made of a scratch-resistant and durable polycarbonate that is also lightweight. Both cases are equipped with a TSA-approved side lock, telescopic handles, and multidirectional wheels at the base.

Samsonite S’Cure Hardside 28-inch Luggage

A great gift idea for those who like their luggage to have added protection, the Samsonite S’Cure features a three-point locking system with a snapping lock on both the bottom and top as well as a TSA-approved locking system on the side of the case. The rubber frame gasket along the frame of the opening prevents moisture or debris from entering the case and therefore protecting your items.

We love Samsonite’s Flowlite technology, which is what they use to create thinner exterior shells for a lightweight design while increasing durability and strength. The interior serves more utility than style, but one side provides a zippered divider and the other a cross strap divider to keep luggage separate, and with no fabric on the interior, there is more room for your luggage.

Travel Select Amsterdam Softside Expandable Rolling Luggage

For those travelers that don’t like hard-shelled luggage or suitcases, the Travel Select Amsterdam is a carry-on piece that is lightweight and features a two-tone polyester exterior. This bag features a retractable top handle that locks into place with inline skate wheels for easy unidirectional travel through the airport, and also features standard side and top handles so it can easily be carried up off the ground.

We like the 2 large external pockets on the front, which makes it easy to access items while on a flight such as a book, tablet, or even important documents such as a passport. This luggage can expand up to 2” and still remains the right size to carry on to most flights. Another feature we like about this bag is that there is a bag clasp on the top so you can attach another bag and travel hands-free.

Weekender Duffel Bags for Women and Men

This green duffel bag serves as a great carry-on bag for any flight since it can easily be placed in the overhead bin or can be placed under the seat in front of you. This bag can also serve multiple purposes outside of just travel, and will also come in handy for the gym, sports practice, or dance class. We like that this bag is made of water-resistant fabric and contains a wet pocket, perfect for wet items like a bathing suit or wet towel, which can come in handy while traveling.

A convenient side pocket serves as a great place to easily access your phone or a book, and the compartment on the side can fit an extra pair of shoes. The bag comes with a shoulder strap in addition to the dual handles on top for easy travel. We like that the bag also has a rear strap, which easily slides onto a luggage handle so you can travel hands-free with other luggage.

Patrick DeMoss

Patrick DeMoss is a copywriter specializing in the travel & shopping niche. He has over eight years of experience in content creation across a wide variety of niches.

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The Best Time to Visit Paris for Cheap Flights and Fewer Crowds

By Matt Ortile

The question of when is the best time to visit Paris was answered by Audrey Hepburn in the 1963 classic Sabrina : “ Paris is always a good idea.” A spring stroll through the Jardin du Luxembourg, a summer evening along the Canal Saint-Martin, a fall morning whiled away sur la terrasse avec un café , twinkling holiday markets in the winter—it all sounds so fabulous that one single trip can’t cover it all. But if you’re someone who strategizes around attending (or avoiding) big events in the French capital, or would like to cash in on prime deals for hotels and flights, there is of course a slight science to it all.

To get some expert advice on the best time to visit Paris, I spoke to two of Condé Nast Traveler ’s Top Travel Specialists : Nick Cunningham, the destination manager for Europe at Scott Dunn; and Camilla Davidson, the head of destination management for France at Red Savannah. Both offered tips about the city’s cultural calendar, the must-see sights, and other insider tips that will make your Paris experience—much like Audrey Hepburn’s in Sabrina —one to write home about.

Paris in the spring remains one of the best times to visit for temperate weather and fewer tourists.

What is the best time to go to Paris?

The best times to visit Paris are the months that shoulder the summer season: April, early May, September, and early October. “The days are still warm and balmy but without the sweltering heat of peak summertime,” says Davidson of Red Savannah. You’re more likely to avoid the crowds at this time too, when many of the families traveling with kids are back at work and school.

Cunningham of Scott Dunn agrees that avoiding the months of June, July, and August are a smart idea; temperatures all over Europe are rising , and the city heat and humidity of Paris can feel oppressive. September is his favorite time to visit the French capital, since you won’t need a coat: “Though, it is Paris. In case fall does come early, any excuse is better than none to don a fashionable coat and make the streets of Paris your very own runway.”

When is peak season in Paris?

Peak season in Paris begins at the end of May with the Roland-Garros (a.k.a. the French Open) and runs through the summer, ending in the middle of September . Davidson notes that many Parisians also take their grands vacances in August, when they decamp to the beach or the mountains, so many small boutiques and restaurants close for the month. Also, this means August may feel more packed with tourists than usual because all the locals are away, and you may not get to experience all the insider Paris recs you got from your friends for things like hole-in-the-wall wine bars and must-visit thrift shops.

Don’t forget to keep an eye on the fashion world’s calendar, Cunningham cautions: “Despite the fantastic opportunities for spotting A-list celebrities , be warned that if you visit during fashion weeks, especially womenswear, it’s possible you will see higher prices everywhere during seemingly surprising times of the year in the fall and spring.” For what it’s worth: the women’s ready-to-wear shows—what most people call “Paris Fashion Week”—occur in late February or early March and late September or early October .

There are plenty of historic cafés in Paris like Les Deux Magots where you can while away the day.

What is the cheapest time to go to Paris?

Generally, the cheapest time to go to Paris is in the window from mid-November to mid-December, says Cunningham, “after the insanely busy summer tourist season, but before the holiday season , when prices leading just up to and after New Year’s skyrocket.” During this time, you avoid most of the major events on the annual calendar like fashion week, the French Open, and the like, giving you plenty of room at hotels and shorter lines at the main tourist attractions.

With the Olympics happening in France this year, the cheapest time to go to Paris in 2024 is after the summer, specifically October and November, according to Laura Lindsay, the global travel trends expert at Skyscanner, the search aggregator and travel agency. As for 2025, the beginning of the calendar is looking like a good time to book your flights, she says. January , February, and March have flights starting at $330 roundtrip from the United States to Paris.

For cheaper plane tickets to Paris, Lindsay recommends playing with your itinerary. Roundtrip flights from and to the most convenient airports are most desirable and often priced accordingly by airlines . “Sometimes it’s cheaper to fly out with one airline and back with another,” she says. “You can also look at flying in or out of one airport and back to or from another. This is especially handy for cities with multiple airports like Paris, London, and New York. It can take a bit of playing with the flight search, but it can result in finding great flight deals.”

How many days in Paris do you need as a first timer?

Both Davidson and Cunningham suggest four to five days in Paris for the average first-time visit. Travelers can cover a handful of must-see sights in Paris, but an extra fifth day can offer some breathing room and time to enjoy the city at a more leisurely pace. This is Paris after all. Simply strolling through the streets for a bit of French flânerie will always yield some new-to-you discoveries, be it a café , a bakery, a boutique, or some small patch of green.

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Crowds are a given at the Louvre, but time your arrival strategically for a calmer experience

What are the must-see places in Paris?

Naturally, the Eiffel Tower , the Louvre , and the Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre are among the must-see tourist attractions in Paris, but be prepared for crowds to be there year-round. Try going early when you can; watching the sunrise at the foot of the Sacré-Cœur with a view overlooking the French capital is definitely worth the wake-up call and the hike up the hill. Additionally, the boat rides along the Seine are one of the tourist attractions that even Parisians can appreciate; Cunningham suggests going at golden hour, just as the city lights come to life at dusk, for a truly mesmerizing display of the City of Light.

As for more off-the-beaten-path experiences, Cunningham recommends a guided tour of the Palais Garnier , the most famous opera house in the city: “It’s a very brief visit that doesn’t take much time, but it delivers perhaps one of the most interesting tours you can do in the city.” Davidson also offers a useful strategy for seeing art and culture in the city: “Paris is so filled with museums, galleries, and art exhibitions that I always suggest visitors to pick just one gallery and focus on that, to avoid ‘museum fatigue’ and focus on a particular area of interest for you.”

Note that the Notre Dame Cathedral is due to reopen at the end of 2024 after extensive reconstruction and restoration in the wake of the devastating fire in the spring of 2019. It’s one of the most anticipated reopenings happening in the city this year, the other being that of the Grand Palais. Book tickets early, if you want to go, and be prepared to muscle through the crowds.

What else should I know before visiting Paris?

Always make sure to greet shop owners and staff when entering a store, a restaurant, a hotel—any building in Paris, really. “It’s considered rude to wait for them to greet you,” Cunningham explains. Bonjour and merci will get you far; you’ll find that just saying hello and thank you will make your experience in the city all the more pleasant.

Davison also suggests bringing comfortable walking shoes . Much of the city is walkable, and you’ll miss a lot of the beautiful city scenery if you’re just shuttling back and forth between tourist sites via the Metro or taxis. She also recommends visiting a museum on the first Sunday of the month, which is when many art institutions offer free admission. “It’s a great way to explore some of the lesser-known museums, with less commitment than an expensive ticketed admission.”

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The Early Prime Day Luggage Deals To Shop Before July 16 & 17

By Timothy Beck Werth

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Amazon’s annual spend-a-thon has started its descent, and it’s time to start reading up on the best early Prime Day luggage deals from Tumi, Delsey Paris, Samsonite, and GQ favorites like Carhartt, Rains, and Thule that will be landing on July 16 and 17. If you want to order new luggage before your next trip on the Fourth of July weekend ( or snag some stuff to put in said suitcase ), however, you can take advantage of the best luggage deals already live on the site ahead of Prime big deal days.

We’ve collected all the best Amazon Prime Day luggage sales for you below, including carry-on luggage , hardshell options, weekender bags, upright luggage, duffle bags , travel backpacks , spinner luggage, checked bags and more, plus some insider details on what to expect when Amazon finally throws down the summer sale gauntlet.

What To Expect During Amazon Prime Day 2024

Typically, Prime Day takes place over two days in mid-July, but unofficial sales typically start weeks before the official kickoff. Already, we’re seeing new price drops on top luggage brands and also discounts on lesser-known brands (you know, the ones GQ readers know). Because of this, hardside expandable luggage, softside expandable luggage, carry-on suitcases, options with spinner wheels, toiletry bag, travel accessories, and tech products with chargers that come in clutch at the airport are already cheaper than they were a few weeks ago. Before adding a deal to our shopping guide below, we check price history tools and our past coverage to ensure the deal is actually worth your time (the fine print is that not all “discounts” in Primeland are actually genuine deals).

Lastly, while we’ve found a decent number of luggage deals already, we haven’t found many discounts on luggage sets so far. If you need a new two- or three-piece luggage set, then we recommend waiting for Prime Day itself. That’s when we expect more baggage bundles to drop into the sales department.

Rollers Duffle Bags Tote Bags Backpacks Accessories

The Best Early Prime Day Luggage Deals, at a Glance:

Think of this as the TSA pre-check line. Keep your shoes on and check out the top deals of the moment:

• The Best Early Prime Day Luggage Deal: Travelpro ​​Crew Classic Softside Spinner, 21" Carry-On , $270 $229
• The Best Prime Day Duffle Deal: Carhartt Heavy Haul Utility 70L Duffle Bag , $200 $180
• The Best Premium Luggage Deal: Tumi 19 Degree Extended Trip Hardside Checked Luggage , $750 $525
• The Best Checked Baggage Deal: Delsey Paris Alexis Hardside 29" Checked Luggage , $170 $133
• The Best Budget Spinner: Bagsmart Carry-On Spinner , $103 $82
• The All-American Backpack: Jansport Cool Backpack , $60 $42
• The Sexiest Sports Duffle: Thule Chasm 70L Duffle , $170 $139this
• The Best Luggage Tracker Deal: Apple AirTags 4-Pack , $100 $80
• The Best Travel Tech Deal: Ugreen Bluetooth Travel Transmitter , $30 $24
• The Best Backpack Deal: Rains Rolltop Rucksack , $140 $104
• The No-Nonsense Bagge Deal: Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Spinner , $200 $108

Rollers, Spinners & Checked Bags

Ben Sherman

Derby Spinner 2-Piece Set

Amazon is packed with hardside luggage bearing clothing brand logos (no lie, you can get Wrangler luggage). But at this point, the affordable hardside category has become commoditized, and you're mostly shopping for aesthetics. In which case, this standout green feels like a win.

Eddie Bauer

Expedition Duffel Bag 2.0

If your vacations involve booking guides and rental cars with 4WD, get yourself a beefy piece of luggage that can handle adventure. Eddie Bauer's rugged rolling duffel has plenty of useful features, like a laundry compartment with odor control, smooth skate wheels for rolling over unpaved ground, and Goldilockscompression straps for cinching down all your gear.

Maxlite Softside Expandable Checked Luggage

When you need a goldilocks bag—big enough to check, not so big it takes up half your closet—reach for this 25" in-betweener. A step up from Samsonite, it's an all-black bag that won't show any scuffs or stains even after years of hard-knock travel life.

Winfield 2 Hardside Spinner, 20” Carry-On

The famous travel brand's Winfield line is an ideal 20-inch carryon. This spinner is small enough to fit in the overhead compartment, and the affordable price tag is like an unexpected upgrade when you're least expecting it.

DELSEY Paris

Helium Aero Hardside Expandable 29" Checked Luggage

If you aren't afraid to check a bag, but are afraid of overzealous baggage handlers, invest in the Helium Aero, a hardside bag with an extra-durable polycarbonate shell and an attractive metallic finish. This bag also gets bonus points for a locking handle that stays right where you want it to.

Crew Classic Softside Spinner, 21" Carry-On

Travelpro's "Crew" line has a simple pitch: These bags are stewardess approved. The latest entry in the lineup has durable but smooth-gliding wheels, handsome accents, and a smooth telescoping handle. It also has an extra inch on the average carry-on, and this is one arena where size matters.

20" Carry-On Spinner

Most Amazon budget brands aren't worth your time, but if you need a starter bag for a teen or Gen Z member of the family, this adorable spinner has just the right balance of personality and affordability.

Chasm Carry-On Spinner

Last year, Prime Day brought discounts on the Thule Subterra line, but this year, the Chasm lineup get the biggest price drops. This bag has a water-resistant exterior and an internal mesh pocket for dirty clothes, making it a convenient carry-all carry-on. Plus, if you love the look of this olive green bag, you'll find a matching backpack below.

America Tourister

Cascade Hardside 24" Spinner

Can you say ombre? With this unique finish, you don't need to stick a silly little bow on your bag to recognize it on the carousel.

Alexis Hardside 29" Checked Luggage

Don't apologize for being an overpacker. Instead, get a bag that can fit all your outfits, your backup outfits, and the goodies you buy along the way. The unique polycarbonate shell gives this bag a distinct look, and it's surprisingly lightweight for its hefty size.

19 Degree Extended Trip Hardside Checked Luggage

If you aren't picky about the hue of your bag, you can find some massive $200+ discounts on Tumi hardside suitcases right now. If your starter suitcase is ready for retirement, upgrade to a premium bag that will last for decades. Better yet, both checked and carry-on versions of this baggage are on sale.

Duffle Bags

Heavy Haul Utility Duffel Bag

We always try to include a Carhartt duffle in our guide to the best Prime Day luggage deals, and this year it had to be the new Heavy Haul bag. It looks like something from the Carhartt WIP line, and we love the 700D brown canvas nylon, excessive number of handles, and extra-large 75L capacity.

Chasm Sports Duffle

This import comes by way of Amazon Japan. If that's not enough to sell you on this fiery sports bag, then maybe the spacious 70L capacity, waterproof tarpaulin fabric, wide-mouth opening, and compression straps will finish the sales job. Yes, you can wear it as a backpack, too.

Hilo Weekender Bag

Looking for an affordable duffle that will still get you approving nods from fellow clotheshorses? Rains (yes, they're on Amazon now) has you covered with this no-nonsense, weather-resistant black duffle.

Defender 4 Large Duffel Bag

This straightforward duffle will work equally well as a gym bag or a weekender, though depending on how much your feet sweat, probably not both.

Lite Duffel

The Australian EDC brand makes a no-frills duffle that's still handsome enough for you. Make this svelte over-the-shoulder bag your new overnight partner or weekender go-to.

Subterra Daypack

Swedish brand Thule makes a mean runabout rucksack, with a bounty of protected pockets (including a molded case on the side for preserving your sunglasses) and a capacious 25-liter size that can stash a 15" laptop by way of a quick access zip.

Chasm Backpack 26L

This durable sports backpack still has a compartment for your 15-inch MacBook. Though not quite as durable as the Thule cargo carrier on your car, it's just as cool.

Rolltop Rucksack

Made with the Danish outerwear brand's signature polyester fabric, this travel bag has a clean, minimalist look with smart details like a rolltop closure, carabiner, and side-open laptop sleeve. Just don't call it a backpack. (It's a rucksack—get it right.)

Voyageur Hannah Leather Backpack

Tumi's leather backpack will be the ideal carry-on companion with a discrete luggage pass-through and enough room for your laptop or tablet.

Cool Backpack

Sometimes, the first backpack you owned is still the right choice 20 years later. Only now this classic Jansport comes with a 15-inch laptop sleeve.

Helium DLX Weekender Tote Bag

A business class-worthy travel bag that's wide enough to pop in a laptop, all your in-flight reads, and more.

Lo & Sons

Catalina Deluxe

Is it a duffle? Is it a tote? Keep them guessing with this easy-carry travel bag, which makes it easy to separate dirty and clean clothes into different compartments.

Travel Accessories

Packing Cubes 8-Pieces

At this point, everyone should have converted to the tao of packing cubes—and this mega-set delivers enough packing cubes for the entire family.

AirTag 4 Pack

Apple's AirTags basically crowdsource tracking by anonymously using nearby iPhones to feed you the location of your items. Next time you walk through an airport, take note of how many iPhones you see, and rest easy knowing that none of your bags are going to slip off the grid (even if they don't make the connecting flight).

Airplane Bluetooth Transmitter Adapter

Are you going to buy the overpriced headphones your flight attendent is hawking down the aisle? Hell no, you've got your dignity. So, plan ahead with this game-changer of a gadget, which lets you tune into the in-flight entertainment with your very own wireless earbuds or headphones. This Bluetooth transmitter keeps you connected and wirefree.

Laptop Backpack B210

When you're checking a bag but still need to bring a laptop on the plane (ugh), this ultra-affordable, ultra-sleek laptop bag keeps you nimble and quick.

10 Luxury travel minis to take on your next trip

From shampoo to a beach-inspired scents - you'll want them all....

Although we had all hoped that by the 1st of June 2024, we would have seen the end of the 100ml limit on liquids, it looks like England's main airports won't be scrapping the restrictions until early next year. 

Despite the frustration of being restricted to 100ml or less, there is something so pleasing about getting all your travel-sized faves ready for your trip - as well as the fact it means you can save on valuable space if you're only taking hand luggage . 

More From The June Digital Issue:

Luckily, some of our favourite brands have now entered the world of miniatures so there's no compromising on your usual routine, plus it's a great time to test out some new products before you splurge. 

To save you scrolling, we've shortlisted 10 of the best that you'll find in our carry-ons this summer... 

The Best Luxury Travel Minis:

1 / 10 cécred double cleanse kit double cleanse kit.

Why it's great for travelling:  If you’re doing lots of swimming in salty or chlorinated water this double cleanse trio is a must. It contains the Clarifying & Exfoliating Shampoo as well as the Hydrating Shampoo and a rich conditioner to keep your strands super healthy. 

Editor's notes: As soon as we saw Cécred was launching travel sizes we knew we had to get our hands on them. Not only do they leave your hair feeling silky soft, the scent of the Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner, Temple Oud, combines night-blooming jasmine and sandalwood for the ultimate shower experience. 

Bom Dia Bright Clarifying AHA BHA Body Wash

Sol de Janeiro

Why it's great for travelling:  There’s no denying that anything from Sol de Janeiro is literally made for the sunshine. This body wash not only smells like the brand's iconic Cheirosa 40 fragrance, it contains gentle exfoliating acids to keep your skin smooth. 

Editor's notes: A body wash and exfoliator in one - this is a no brainer for me. I struggle with Keratosis Pilaris on my arms so any exfoliating ingredients are always a bonus. Plus, the delicious scent will still be lingering as you dry off on the balcony with a packet of Lays. 

Milk Body Lotion

Why it’s great for travelling: One thing you don’t want when you’re warm is to slather on a super thick, greasy lotion. This one is great as it sinks in really quickly while still hydrating your skin with soothing ingredients like vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. 

Editor’s notes:  For some reason a moisturiser is something I always seem to forget but this one is worth remembering. I love that it doesn’t leave any sticky residue and it has a beautifully subtle, clean scent. 

Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid Non-Perfumed Suncream SPF50+

La Roche-Posay

​​​​ Why it’s great for travelling:  This bottle is such a good streamlined shape for travelling, and it’s a classic for a reason. The formula is effective and fast-absorbing, without leaving any sticky residue. This fragrance-free version is great for sensitive skin too. 

Editor’s notes: SPF is one thing I don’t tend to switch around very often and this is one of my favourites. It’s not sticky, doesn’t sting my eyes and it’s water, sweat and sand resistant. Trust me, once you try it you’ll be hooked. 

Beach Walk Eau de Toilette

Why it’s great for travelling: There’s something so charming about these tiny little bottles. This warm floral has notes of bergamot, coconut milk, musk, pink pepper and ylang-ylang. Perfect for summer escapes. 

Editor’s notes: I’m not someone that sticks to one scent day to day and so I love trying a new fragrance when I go on holiday. This one is meant to remind you of a warm beach walk and I can’t get enough. 

Mini Cleansing Heroes

Why it’s great for travelling:  When you're slathering on sunscreen day in day out, a double cleanse can help to really remove any residue from the day. This duo has both an oil cleanser and a cooling gel cleanser, which soothes any sensitivity. 

Editor’s notes: I love a double cleanse and these are the perfect duo to take on holiday as they’re packed with soothing ingredients that are great for calming sun-exposed skin. 

The Dewy Skin Cream

Why it’s great for travelling: Yes, this is a pricey face cream but trying it in travel size is a great way to see if it’s something you want to invest in. It gives skin a gorgeous glow that’ll make your tan pop. 

Editor’s notes: You can’t tell how dinky this is but it really is a mini - in the best way. A little of this rich cream goes a long way and leaves skin feeling super hydrated. 

Why it’s great for travelling: Warmer climes can cause more frizz so a smoothing hair oil is always good to have on hand. This one gives hair a glossy finish, while also providing heat protection.

Editor’s notes: I never go anywhere without hair oil and this dinky size is perfect for on the go and even for carrying in your handbag. I apply it to my hair when it’s damp and leave it to air dry. 

Les Beiges Sheer Healthy Glow Highlighting Fluid

Why it’s great for travelling: An evening essential for bringing a subtle glow to your evening beauty look, this shimmering elixir can be used on face and body to make your tan pop. 

Editor’s notes: If you have any extra space in your liquid pouch, this is a must. Pop it on the high points of your cheeks and your collar bones (even your legs), for a radiant glow. 

Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray

Charlotte Tilbury

Why it’s great for travelling: The perfect mist to stop your make-up sliding off in the heat. This spray is loved by MUA’s including Val Garland and can also be used to prime the skin. 

Editor’s notes: Nothing beats a refreshing mist and this one really stops your makeup from budging. I like to keep it in my bag and sprits throughout the evening to keep things looking fresh. 

How we chose the products:

• Size:  All of these products are under 100ml so they comply with airport standards, but don't compromise on quality. They're all small enough to pop in your hand luggage for a fly-and-flop trip, or to shove in your overnight bag for a city escape. 
• Quality:  Each product has been hand-picked by our Beauty Writer because she has tried it and would take it on holiday herself. All the products chosen work well in warmer climates and will add a touch of luxury to your trip. 

Why you should trust me:  

I am Hello! Fashion ’s Junior Beauty Writer, with several years of experience within the industry. My journey in beauty journalism has been nothing short of exhilarating, with countless opportunities to explore, test, and review a wide array of beauty products. My role allows me to dive deep into the world of beauty, staying on top of the latest trends, innovations, and product launches. I regularly test new products as part of my job but these are the 10 I'd choose to travel with. 

HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our  FAQ page .

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The Best Times to Visit Paris for Great Weather, Events, and Fewer Crowds

Not that you can ever go wrong with a trip to the City of Light.

Paris is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, stuffed with iconic landmarks, renowned museums, designer boutiques, and acclaimed restaurants.

There are advantages to visiting in every season. Although January through March are the chilliest months, they're also the quietest and the best for wrapping up in a chic coat and experiencing Paris like a local. In the spring, vibrant blooms in the famed jardins are a major draw, while the long summer days create the ideal conditions for sipping cocktails at an outdoor brasserie late into the evening. September and October are arguably the best months to visit, when the air turns brisk, Paris Fashion Week is in full force, and changing leaves accent the city.

To help you decide when to travel to Paris, here are the main tourist seasons:

• High season: June to August and late December
• Shoulder seasons: April to May and September to November
• Low season: Early December and January to April

Ready to book your trip to the City of Light? These are the best times to visit Paris depending on your priorities.

Best Time to Visit Paris to Avoid Crowds

Paris is one of the most popular destinations in the world, with tourism peaking between June and August. There are major downsides to visiting Paris in its high season: Large crowds make exploring popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre more time-consuming, and you might need a reservation to dine at trendy restaurants. Hotel prices, too, will inevitably climb in the summer months.

If your main objective is to avoid crowds, visit between October and April — sidestepping the jam-packed holiday season in December. Go at the beginning or end of this window for temperatures still comfortable enough to sit outside at one of the quintessentially Parisian cafe tables.

To see the city's top tourist attractions with fewer people around, aim to visit on weekday mornings, but check the official tourism website since many museums are closed one day or more each week. Other crowd-beating tactics include buying tickets that allow you to skip the line and walking instead of squeezing into public transportation. Paris is best enjoyed on foot anyway.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Best Time to Visit Paris for Good Weather

Travelers are drawn to Paris in the summer because of the long days and sunny weather. It's a stunning time to see the sights, from Sacré Cœur to the Jardin du Luxembourg, and the laid-back atmosphere at cafes and along the Seine is a treat. It's worth noting, however, that Paris is not known for its air conditioning. In fact, AC isn't as common in Europe as it is in the U.S., though most hotels have it. While Paris can see heat waves that bring temperatures in the 80s and 90s, summer temperatures are generally comfortable, in the mid-70s range.

Winter in Paris is relatively mild, but avoid visiting between December and February if you're averse to temperatures in the 30s and 40s. Does it snow in Paris? Not really. The city receives a dusting now and again, but visitors needn't pack bulky gear for extreme weather. Spring temperatures are typically pleasant, in the 50s and 60s, but come with a higher chance of rain — May is one of the rainiest months in Paris. Fall can also bring wet weather. From mid-September to November, after the Labor Day and Fashion Week rushes, Paris quiets down and the weather becomes crisp and autumnal.

Best Time to Visit Paris for Lower Prices

The cheapest time to visit Paris is during the off-season — in the winter, before and after the holiday rush, which means early December, January, and February. These months see average temperatures in the 30s and 40s, but if you don't mind the cold, you'll likely save on flights, public transportation, attractions, and accommodations.

Visiting Paris in winter is special — not least because the restaurants are less crowded and attractions quieter — as well as easy and affordable. Cons include fewer tour options and less frequent tours, including a reduced timetable for cruises on the Seine.

Best Times to Visit Paris for Holidays and Festivals

The city's calendar is packed with festivals, holidays, and traditions worth traveling for. Let's start with the biggest sporting events: the Paris Marathon is typically held in April, the French Open begins in May and ends in June, and the Tour de France typically zooms into Paris in July.

In May, museums across the city open their doors for free perusing after hours on La Nuit des Musées . In the summer, the iconic Fête de la Musique brings live music to parks and other public spaces on June 21, and Bastille Day is marked by military parades and fireworks on July 14. The Paris Jazz Festival is an ongoing event from June to September. Both fall and spring attract the international style set to Paris Fashion Week, held in late September/early October and late February/early March.

Starting around mid-November, the holiday season in Paris sees grand boulevards like the Champs-Élysées ablaze with Christmas lights and holiday markets popping up around the city. Parisians wrap up the holidays with the Feast of the Epiphany, January 6, which is when you'll find king cake (or galette des rois ) on market tables and in bakery windows everywhere.

Worst Times to Visit Paris

There's no bad time to visit Paris — the city is remarkable any time of year, even when it's bitterly cold or sweltering and teeming with tourists. But if you're easily annoyed by heat and crowds, you should probably think twice about a trip in July or August. If you happen to be in Paris during a heat wave, you could be quite uncomfortable sans AC in some attractions, shops, and cafes. And during the high season, prices are correspondingly high.

The holidays are another chaotic (albeit magical) time in Paris. By all means, go in December if you want to shop for unique gifts and see Christmas lights galore, but avoid this period if you're hoping for a quiet trip.

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