What to pack for France

Comfortable shoes
While France is one of the fashion capitals of the world, style comes secondary to comfort when choosing shoes for your visit. With days of exploring paired with cobblestone streets, practical walking shoes will trump elegant high-heeled styles.
French/English phrasebook
The French take great pride in their language. Pack a French phrasebook and you will find yourself connecting better with local culture, even if you start with a few broken words before swapping to English.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Packing items like a waterproof jacket, umbrella and scarf will see you prepared for unexpected weather changes. With many micro-climates found across the country of France, geographic temperature changes are a certainty.
Mini binoculars
Take your sightseeing to a microscopic level with a compact pair of binoculars or a magnifying glass. These will enhance views from tall buildings and mountainous settings, and allow you to enjoy finely detailed artworks.
Security items
Though safety is high in most parts of France, it always pays to be protected from pickpockets with items like anti-theft bags. That way you can relax and feel assured during chance encounters with strangers.