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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Alsace And Lorraine, France

Warm Weather Attire

Lightweight and breathable clothing, like cotton or linen, suits daytime. Shorts, t-shirts, and dresses provide comfortable choices. Evenings may turn cooler, so include a Light jacket or cardigan. A Rain jacket or Small umbrella can still prove useful for summer thunderstorms.

Summer Protection

Cold Weather Attire

Spring (April-May): Mild, but mornings and evenings can be cool. Layers help. Pack light sweaters, Long-sleeved shirts, and a Waterproof jacket. An umbrella is also recommended. Winter (November-March): This season needs your warmest clothing.

Autumn & Winter Layers

  • Sweaters: For warmth as air cools.
  • Warm Jackets: Outer protection against chill.
  • Waterproof Outerwear: For unexpected rain.

Footwear Guide

Walking Shoes

Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Metz is best explored on foot, and its cobblestone streets can be tiring in unsupportive footwear. Choose shoes with good arch support and cushioning.

Cushioned, supportive footwear

Waterproof Footwear

Waterproof boots are recommended for winter and potentially rainy spring or autumn days. This keeps your feet dry and comfortable.

Dry feet in damp weather

Dressier Options

Pack a pair if you plan evening outings that need a more polished look for dinners or events. This includes semi-formal gatherings or higher-end restaurants.

For evening events

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Bring your original passport and any visa needed. Photocopies and digital scans should be on your phone or in cloud storage. Have a digital or physical copy of your travel insurance policy details, including emergency contact numbers and policy numbers. If driving, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended or legally necessary. Carry it with your original license. Bring vaccination records and documentation for prescription medications. Keep copies of flight, accommodation, and tour reservations. Have a list of local emergency numbers and embassy contact details. Include personal emergency contacts too. Student/Senior/Press IDs may provide discounts.

  • Original Passport & Visa.
  • Health Documentation & Prescriptions.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) with original license.
  • Travel Insurance Policy.
  • Flight, Accommodation, Tour Reservations.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for potential discounts.
  • Emergency Contact Information.
  • Financial Documentation (bank statements/credit limits).

Technology & Electronics

Power & Phone

France uses 230V at 50Hz. Most modern electronics are dual-voltage, but check your charger. France uses Type E or F plugs. A Universal travel adapter is highly recommended. Most modern smartphones work in France. Check with your mobile provider for roaming plans.

Connectivity Essentials

Photography & Apps

A versatile Travel camera captures Metz's beauty. A Compact digital camera or a Smartphone with a good camera often will suffice. Consider extra batteries or memory cards.

Recommended Apps

  • Google Translate or DeepL: For language barriers. Download offline packs.
  • Google Maps/Apple Maps: For navigation and public transport.
  • Uber: For ride-sharing alternatives in Metz.

Digital Security

VPN Services

NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer secure internet access, important for public Wi-Fi.

Photo Storage

Utilize cloud storage services (e.g., Google Photos, Dropbox) to back up your photos. A Small external hard drive can also serve as a physical backup.

Electronics Retailers

B&H Photo is a reliable source for camera equipment and accessories if needed while traveling.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

Pack a Basic first aid kit with essentials like Band-aids in various sizes, antiseptic wipes, or Hand sanitizer. Include pain relievers (e.g., paracetamol, Ibuprofen), Anti-diarrhea medication, and antihistamines for allergies. Bring enough of your prescription medications in their original packaging, labeled with your name and dosage.

Everyday Remedies

  • Headache relief for minor discomforts.
  • Indigestion tablets for dietary adjustments.
  • Cold and flu remedies for seasonal symptoms.

Outdoor Wellness

Water purification is not needed in Metz; tap water is safe to drink. Most common hygiene products are available, but bring specific brands if you use them. For mosquitoes, Insect repellent is useful, especially during summer evenings near rivers or in green spaces.

Protection Outdoors

  • Safe Tap Water: Drinkable in Metz.
  • Personal Hygiene: Readily available locally.
  • Insect Repellent: For evenings near water.

Altitude and Motion

Altitude Sickness

  • Metz is at a low altitude.
  • Altitude sickness is not a concern here.
  • Enjoy the city without high-altitude worries.

Motion Sickness

  • If prone to motion sickness on trains or buses.
  • Bring appropriate remedies for comfort.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Bicycle Rentals

You can easily rent bicycles in Metz. This option removes the need to transport your own bike. If you plan extensive cycling trips along the Moselle, consider a small bicycle Repair kit or puncture repair kit.

  • Easy local rentals.
  • No personal bike transport needed.
  • Repair kit for long rides.
  • Wide range of bike types available.

City Exploration

For most activities, renting is more practical than bringing bulky gear. No unique specialty items are needed for standard Metz tourist experiences. Your focus will be on comfortable clothing and footwear for city exploration.

  • Comfortable footwear for walking.
  • No specialized gear required.
  • Focus on comfortable attire.
  • Rent bulky items if needed.

Outdoor Excursions

Metz is a gateway to the surrounding Moselle department, featuring rolling hills and forests. If your itinerary involves hiking or extended outdoor excursions beyond the city, consider appropriate outdoor attire and gear for variable terrain and weather conditions.

  • Proper hiking footwear.
  • Layered outdoor clothing.
  • Map and compass or GPS device.
  • Small backpack with water and snacks.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comfort

These items contribute to your comfort during long journeys and help you rest more easily, whether on a train, plane, or in your accommodation.

Enhanced Journeys

  • Neck Pillow: Useful for long train journeys or flights, for comfortable rest.
  • Eye Mask: For improved rest in various lighting conditions.
  • Earplugs: Beneficial for light sleepers in noisy environments.
  • Headphones: For entertainment or noise reduction.

Security & Reusable Items

These items contribute to your peace of mind and support more sustainable travel practices by reducing waste.

Essentials for Awareness

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Fill with tap water, saving money and reducing plastic waste.

Reusable Cutlery Set

A small set of Reusable cutlery for picnics or street food.

Travel Mug

For hot beverages on the go, reducing single-use cups.

LED Headlamp/Torch

Eco-friendly lighting for evening walks or emergencies.

Region-Specific Items

General Travel Needs

  • No particular region-specific essentials are unique to Metz.
  • Most common items are readily available in local shops.
  • Specialty dietary foods or specific personal care brands might be harder to find.

Personalized Packing

  • If you rely on specific items, pack them from home.
  • For example, unique snacks or toiletries.
  • Always ensure you have enough prescription medications.

Packing Pro Tip

Efficient packing starts with understanding your itinerary and the climate. Roll clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles.

Utilize packing cubes for organization and to separate clean from dirty items. Always pack essentials in your carry-on bag, including documents, medications, and a change of clothes.