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Winter packing list for France: France in Western Europe is known for its medieval cities, alpine villages and the Mediterranean beaches. Paris, the capital city and also called the city of love is famed for its classical art museums and fashion houses.
What’s more, the rest of the country is also popular for its rich culture and history, renowned wines and sophisticated cuisines. With all this and much more, France has been among the most toured destinations in the world.
Read on to find what to wear in France in Winter.
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What to Wear in France in Winter
Packing list for France in Winter (see brands here)
1-2 x Jacket/coats: The french wear a lot of neutral colours in winter so aim for browns, creams, greys and blacks.
1- 2 pair of boots: Go for simpler black styles which will match everything, make sure one is warmer or atleast can fit warm socks inside. Pick pairs which you’ll be comfortable walking in.
I pair of sneakers: If you take sneakers, take just one pair of boots if you’re struggling to fit under the luggage weight limit. Alternatively you can skip sneakers and just take boots if you prefer / don’t normally wear sneakers.
1-2 x pairs of gloves:
4-5 x socks:
Tops/ Shirts x 4-7: Think basics -neutral colours, simple shirts, warm long sleeved tees and effortless style.
Sleepwear: Should be warm and comfortable.
1 -2 x Scarfs
6-10 pairs of underwear
3-5 bras
1-2 x Woollen hat/beanie
Leggings or stockings: bring these to wear under skirts. If visiting colder areas of France you’ll want to pack warmer pairs.
Trousers x 2-3: Pack an extra pair if you don’t have any winter skirts.
Skirt x 1-2: Optional, pick a warmer one if heading to the north.
2 x cardigans or pullovers.
What Other Items to Pack for France in Winter
Medical
- Pain killers – It might be for a stomach ache, headache or any other mild illnesses.
- Anti-acid medicine
- First aid kit such as bandage, spirit and Elastoplast, disposable gloves etc.
- Prescribed medicine– Remember to carry the prescription in case you need a refill or are asked upon at the airport.
Makeup and Toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste (travel – sized tube)
- Regular makeup kit
- Wipes
- Tissue paper
- Deodorant
- Solid shampoo and conditioner
- Hair products
Technology
- Phone and charger
- Digital camera and lenses- The Sony a6500 and 19mm f2.8 lens is one of the best to use.
- 2 or 3 8GB Memory cards- This will help you out in case one memory card fails or gets lost.
- International adapter
- Batteries and camera’s charger
- Portable battery – Used to charge a phone or the camera.
Luggage
- Suitcase- Ideal for all travelers since all your stuff will be in one place
- Backpack – It’s the best to use if you are traveling light.
- Belt or Neck Wallet- Meant to keep your documents and credit cards safe.
Everything Else
- Two bank cards – It’s advisable to carry a Master Card and a Visa since not all businesses in France accept regular credit cards.
- Luggage locks for your suitcase or backpack.
- Photocopies of your documents such as identity card, passport among other travel documents. Most importantly, ensure you have left some copied documents back at home.
Seasonal Packing Lists for France
France climate is basically formed under the influence of the Atlantic. The country has four climate zones that include Atlantic, continental, alpine, and the Mediterranean. Three of the country’s zones generally enjoy cold winters and hot summers except for the Mediterranean.
The Mediterranean usually experiences mild winters and hot summers. To experience the warmth and the sunshine, you will need go to the south of the country.
Spring in France (March, April, and May): Spring in France has a lot of unpredictable weather patterns throughout the three months. March may bring in light showers as well as clear sunny days. April, on the other hand, can be warm with temperature ranging from 13C to 17C / 55 to 63F. May continues to be warm as it gets ready to welcome the summer season. Either way, the night stays quite chilly during the whole season.
Summer in France (June, July, and August): France is packed with tourists in the summer season. The weather is pleasant with an average temperature of 25C / 77F. In the period between June and August, the weather is warm throughout the country especially the coastal areas. Even the wild animals in the French forests detect the seasons and are most active during summertime. You can therefore take time to visit the numerous national parks or reserves found all over the country in summer.
Fall in France (September, October, and November): In France, summer does not really end on the last days of August. It usually extends to the first weeks of September until 21st when Fall officially starts. The French however consider the season to start when the holiday comes to an end and school reopens. Fortunately, if you are not tied by any job or school, this season is the best time to visit France and especially the southern part of the country. The days can be quiet pleasantly warm with the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean being warm enough for swimming. Fall is a particularly good time to visit France, whether you’re spending a few weeks exploring the country or 72 hours in Paris.
Winter in France (December, January, and February): Winter in France is primarily rainy rather than snowy apart from the mountain regions. Along the north and central parts, there are fairly rainy winters and the western areas there is relatively mild winters. In Paris, especially in January, the average temperature reaches to 10C /50F during the daytime and 2C / 35F at night. However, the temperature rarely drops to zero in the three months which still makes the country a magical place to visit in winter.
France is no doubt a popular and an amazing tourist destination. Visiting France in the winter season will see you enjoying activities such as skiing in the Alps or visiting the Christmas markets, and more. All you have to do is pack accordingly and just get ready for a magical winter adventure.
