How to Pack for a Trip to Paris

Paris makes romantics out of skeptics with its alluring history and charming modern-day buzz. Layer your clothes to stay comfortable any time of year.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Carry-on Bags
• Garment Bags
• Luggage Sets
• Travel Clothes
• Umbrellas
• Maps
• Travel Adapters And Converters
• Camcorders
• Cameras
• Backpacks
• Duffel Bags
• Maps
• Cameras
• Umbrellas

1. Prepare for cool weather and overcast skies for much of the year. The sun shines during the summer months, but temperatures rarely exceed the low 80s.

2. Pack business attire appropriate to your line of work. Women should opt for knee-length skirts. Colors besides black, navy and gray are widely accepted in the professional environment.

3. Pack a medium-weight coat, sweaters, ankle boots, gloves, scarf and a hat if you plan to be in Paris during the fall, winter and spring months. A heavyweight pant, such as a cord or chino, is advisable.

4. Bring lightweight wool, cotton and fleece garments for easy layering during the summer months. Pair summer attire with comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing excursions.

5. Take nice slacks and a blazer (men) if you intend to catch a show, the ballet or opera. Women, opt for a simple dress or skirted outfit. Formal attire is rarely expected.

6. Pack an umbrella and raincoat when visiting in the fall, winter or spring.

7. Remember an appropriate power adapter to recharge batteries for computers and phones and to use small appliances.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring a carry-on bag that includes all necessities you might need in case your luggage goes astray: passport, change of clothes, all medications, spare contact lenses or glasses, all forms of money and any important documents.
• Paris hotel rooms are notoriously small, so pack to accommodate your needs. Leave superfluous items at home.

on 4/3/2006 Do not underestimate the power (and relief) of wearing your most comfortable shoes. There is a lot of walking to do in Paris, and aching feet will ruin your day.

on 11/22/2005 Want to look like the Parisian women? Wear a neck scarf (a heavier one for the winter months, and a lighter one for spring and fall). Size, shape, and color don't matter.

on 11/22/2005 Paris is VERY expensive! Don't underestimate the money you will need to visit this beautiful city!

on 11/22/2005 Paris is known for fashion - bring basics like nice slacks, white tee shirts, black basic dress, and a trench coat. You can dress all your items up or down and not have to pack much. Bring an umbrella too! Parisians have a natural 'flare' - it is not too hard to bring that with you on a trip - oh, and try to speak the language even if you mess it up. It shows respect!

on 11/22/2005 while its true most Parisians dress well, bluejeans are everywhere-on the younger crowd. They work well for adults when dressed up with nicer shoes and shirts (no ragged tshirts). its not necessarily about clothes in Paris-its style and how you present yourself.