10 Things You Should NOT Pack for Your Trip to Paris
Are you travelling to Paris?
Amazing!
If this is your first time in Paris or France you are probably wondering what to pack and what not to pack. To help you weed down what to bring so you have more space in your suitcase for haute couture and wine bottles.
Here are 10 things you should NOT pack for your trip to Paris!
1. Bulky Guidebooks
Why Not:
Let’s be honest: in the age of smartphones and apps, carrying heavy guidebooks is rather impractical and quite unnecessary. In my opinion, Paris is a city best explored with a sense of spontaneity. I would also say having done Paris the guidebook way that a lot of the places in the guidebooks are rather disappointing.
Alternative:
I would go for digital versions of guidebooks or travel apps. I myself just plan out my days with things I want to see and do beforehand and then during the day I mostly use Google Maps to look up restaurants and bars real quick. That is one of the reasons why I would always recommend getting a sim card in Paris because you really do need mobile data if you don’t want to be fleeced by tourist traps.
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2. Overtly Casual Clothing
Why Not:
Parisians are known for their chic, stylish attire. Wearing overly casual clothing like sweatpants, graphic tees, or sports clothing will literally put a massive neon sign over your head screaming TOURIST! Sure you don’t have to dress up in your little black dress but don’t wear clothes you would lounge around in either. You will look like a tourist. I am normally someone who walks around in yoga pants and an oversized t-shirt (I never said I was stylish) but I do try to make an effort when I am in Paris!
Alternative:
Instead of ending up looking like a tourist, I would recommend you pack smart casual clothing that can easily be mixed and matched. So what to wear in Paris? Think well-fitted jeans, simple blouses or shirts, and a versatile blazer or light jacket. Also make sure to bring a pair of smart casual sneakers. Don’t go for any sneaker that’s too sporty – they often oust you as an American tourist.
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3. Expensive Jewelry and Valuables
Why Not:
Wearing expensive jewelry or carrying valuable items makes you a target for pickpockets and thieves, especially in crowded tourist areas.
Alternative:
Keep it simple and minimal. I would go for costume jewelry or affordable accessories that you won’t mind losing. I would also make sure to store expensive jewelry in your hotel safe!
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4. High Heels
Why Not:
While high heels might seem like a fashionable choice – it’s Paris right? Home of the haute couture! Sure, but these high heels will make exploring Paris’ cobblestone streets and metro system very hard. Your feet will thank you for leaving them at home.
Alternative:
I would recommend you bring some comfortable walking shoes or stylish flats. Sure you can always bring a pair of nice heels in case you want to go to one Paris’ most exclusive restaurants – but I would also bring a pair of flats in my bag (there now are even flats that roll up just for this purpose!) so you can switch out to flats once you leave the restaurant.
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5. Heavy Winter Coats
Why Not:
Paris winters are generally mild compared to other European cities. Sure it can still snow quite a bit, but you probably won’t need to lug a heavy winter coat around. Thick winter coats are heavy and often take up a lot of space in your luggage!
Alternative:
I would go for layers instead. A good quality, lightweight jacket, coupled with a sweater and scarf, can keep you warm without the bulk of a massive winter coat. Layers also make it easier to adjust to the changing temparatures and weather!
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6. Too Many Electronic Gadgets
Why Not:
I would advise against taking too many electronic devices. I know some people want to travel with a camera, a tablet, a laptop, a handheld console etc (that used to be me!) but chances are you are only going to use the tablet, handheld console and laptop only once. You have come to Paris to explore the city, not to use your devices. They also take up a lot of space and add unnecessary weight. Plus, juggling multiple chargers and adapters can be a hassle.
Alternative:
Streamline your electronics. That is what we did. A smartphone with a good camera can replace a separate camera, GPS, and a tablet. If you must bring a laptop or tablet, ensure it’s lightweight and that you are definately going to use it. At the moment I always travel with my laptop. However, I have now noticed that when travelling with my baby son I just don’t use it. It is probably time I start leaving it at home!
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7. Oversized Luggage
Why Not:
Navigating the narrow streets and stairs of Paris with oversized luggage can be a real nightmare. Especially if you are also looking to use the metro or public transport to get to the airport or station. Aditionally chances are your hotel room in Paris is pretty small so there will be limited room available for your luggage.
Alternative:
Pack light and use a carry-on suitcase or a medium-sized rolling bag. It’s a good idea to pack a capsule wardrobe and use compression bags or packing cubes to make sure everything fits in your suitcase.
8. Big umbrellas
Why Not:
I sometimes see people come out of the airport with massive umbrellas under their arm. They would have had to either check the thing or bring it with them on board. It’s such a hassle! Sure, Paris does experience rain but carrying a bulky umbrella is often more trouble than it’s worth, especially since many umbrellas tend to break in the windy weather.
Alternative:
Pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket with a hood or a compact, travel-sized umbrella that will easily fit in your bag. If you are suddenly caught in a massive downpour you can also quickly run into a café or bistro and order a glass of wine to wait out the rain.
9. Too Many Toiletries
Why Not:
Toiletries can take up a lot of space and weight in your luggage. And let’s be honest, most of the things you need can actually be bought in a supermarket in Paris. In fact, I never ever travel with toiletries anymore unless it is my toothbrush and toothpaste.
Alternative:
Bring only the essentials in travel-sized containers. Almost all hotels provide basic toiletries, and you can always visit a local supermarket to buy what you need.
10. Traveler’s Checks
Why Not:
I am going to be honest here but traveler’s checks are outdated and often a hassle to cash. Most places in Paris prefer credit or debit card payments, and ATMs are widely available. Also don’t try to pay in USD
Alternative:
I would recommend to use a travel-friendly credit card with no foreign transaction fees. You can also withdraw euros from ATMs if you need cash. It’s also a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases or tips but you really don’t need to bring masses of cash money.
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