Recently updated on January 21st, 2020 at 07:07 pm
Packing for a trip to Paris can present a dilemma; do you pack for comfort in anticipation of hours spent navigating the streets, or prepare instead to look the part in one of the world’s most stylish cities. Then there are the countless gadgets and apps to consider, with just a select few setting themselves apart, truly making travel easier. To get a head start and avoid these common pitfalls, follow the advice of Travel Director Jonathan Holburn, who gives us his insider tips on expertly packing for Paris.
Throughout Paris’s changing seasons, it’s important to pack appropriate attire. For spring weather the French have the saying, ‘In April, not an inch of skin should be revealed; in May, just do as you feel’. Jonathan explains that this is a good maxim when planning your spring packing list. “Even if it looks sunny, April showers can quickly arrive, so a waterproof jacket is useful and always keep that umbrella as a back up,” he advises, “Then, in the summer when the weather gets really hot, wear a linen shirt and bring a light cotton jacket for the evening. In autumn, a wool jacket is essential, which you can wear with a roll-neck sweater if an early dose of winter arrives. From December to February you will almost certainly need a hat, scarf and gloves (coordinated, of course).”
Whatever the time of year, comfortable shoes are a must, as Jonathan explains: “Paris is over 2,000 years old, so while we have some of the finest boulevards in the world, we also have cobblestone roads and squares dating back hundreds of years; these can be real ankle-busters if you don’t come with the right footwear. Sneakers are in style here, but avoid the ones you would go jogging in; this is Paris after all. Stan Smith or Paul Smith ‘Moogg’ trainers work well, but if you want to look Parisien, try something French like Armistice, which are light and comfortable but chic enough to work in the evening.”
As you navigate the city’s streets, having the right bag is certainly key; backpacks are considered the most useful to have, but it’s worth remembering that if they’re large they often won’t be allowed in museums. For this reason, Jonathan recommends having a slim backpack, such as those made by bag designers Incase.
With so much technology now at our fingertips, there are countless appliances to choose between, all promising to transform the way we travel; sometimes, it’s the simplest devices that make the real difference. “You will thank yourself time and again if you purchase a universal adapter,” says Jonathan, “and if you’re bringing your smartphone, bring a portable battery charger too, to make sure you don’t run out of juice as you’re about to capture the Eiffel Tower.”
The guidebook Jonathan recommends above all others is the Cadogan guide to Paris. “It doesn’t just tell you the facts,” he enthuses, “but the story behind each place too. My favourite Paris app is ‘La Fourchette’ or ‘The Fork’, which gives discounts on menus at restaurants.”
To get a feel for Paris before setting out, Jonathan recommends listening to the music of Francis Cabrel, and picking up the book, La Seduction by Elaine Sciolineo for the insight it gives into how Parisiens live their day-to-day lives.
With that little bit of extra suitcase space, Jonathan recommends fitting in one more essential item: “Don’t forget to pack a corkscrew; you won’t find any twist-off tops in this country, and picnics can be spontaneous things.”
Travel to Paris on the Paris Explorer or Highlights of France trips with Trafalgar.
Image credits: Cover photo of the Eiffel Tower © iStock / dennisvdw. Packing the suitcase © iStock / Lumina Stock. The cobblestone streets of Paris © iStock / mmac72. Paris in the rain © iStock / DKart. A view over Paris © iStock / Mundusimages.