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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Burgundy And The Rhone, France

Spring & Summer Attire

Spring (April-May) calls for light layers: t-shirts or Long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters. A waterproof jacket or Packable rain jacket proves useful. Summer (June-August) calls for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Pack t-shirts, shorts, skirts, and dresses. A light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings. A Swimsuit if swimming at Lac Kir. Check Amazon for apparel options.

Summer Essentials

  • Lightweight T-shirts & Tops
  • Comfortable walking sandals
  • Light jacket for evenings

Autumn & Winter Attire

Autumn (September-October) favors mid-weight layers: long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and a medium-weight jacket. A waterproof outer layer is a good choice. A scarf and light Gloves. This is wine harvest season; comfortable, durable clothing for vineyard visits is helpful. Winter (November-March) needs warm layers: Thermal base layers, warm sweaters, and a heavy, warm coat (Down jacket). A Warm scarf and hat are also important. See Nordace for bags.

Winter Necessities

  • Heavy winter coat
  • Warm socks and waterproof boots
  • Hat, gloves, and warm scarf

Footwear Focus

Walking Shoes

The most important footwear item. Dijon's historic center has cobblestone streets, select shoes with good support and cushioning. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.

High support recommended

Dressier Shoes

Pack one pair for evenings out or dining in finer restaurants. Simple and elegant styles are suitable.

For evening occasions

Waterproof Footwear

Waterproof shoes or boots gain recommendation for winter or if travel occurs during rainy periods in spring or autumn.

Rainy season readiness

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Keeping your documents organized and secure averts stress during your travels. Have both original and copies of important papers.

  • Original Passport & Visa (if applicable)
  • Travel insurance policy details (digital & print)
  • International Driving Permit (if driving)
  • Vaccination records & health documentation
  • Printed & digital copies of reservations
  • Emergency contact information
  • Student/senior/press IDs for discounts
  • Copy of prescription for medications

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

France operates on a 230V supply and uses Type E/F plugs. A Universal travel adapter is highly recommended. Most modern phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage. GSM network compatible phones work. Consider purchasing a local SIM card (Orange, SFR, Bouygues, Free Mobile) or an eSIM for cost-effective data. Airalo offers eSIM options.

Tech Items

Photography & Navigation

A good smartphone camera captures Dijon's beauty. For higher quality, a Compact mirrorless or DSLR with a versatile lens offers more. B&H Photo supplies camera equipment. Extra batteries and memory cards are a good idea. Portable chargers are important. For privacy, consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN. Google Maps for navigation and DeepL for translation are useful apps.

Essential Tech Tools

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud) to back up photos and important documents. This safeguards your data if your device is lost or damaged.

Device Security

Consider setting up passcodes or biometric locks on your mobile devices. Keep devices protected when not in use.

Travel Insurance for Electronics

Verify if your travel insurance policy covers electronics against theft or damage. Add extra coverage if needed for high-value items.

Health & Wellness Items

Medical Essentials

A small, personalized health kit supports minor ailments and comfort. A basic Travel first aid kit is good. Pack all prescription medications in their original packaging, with a copy of your prescription and a doctor's note for customs. Bring common over-the-counter medications for colds, headaches (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen), upset stomach, or motion sickness.

First Aid Kit Contents

Protection & Hygiene

Insect repellent is useful in summer, near parks or rivers. Sunscreen with high SPF, Sunglasses, and a hat are important. Tap water in Dijon is potable. Most common toiletries are available, but bring specific brands or eco-friendly options (like solid shampoo bars) if preferred. LifeStraw offers water filtration, though not needed for tap water.

Health & Hygiene Checklist

  • Insect repellent (summer)
  • Sunscreen & sunglasses
  • Personal hygiene essentials

Special Health Focus

Altitude Considerations

  • Dijon sits on a plain; no altitude sickness concerns within the city.
  • Higher elevations in Morvan hills (west of city) are modest.
  • Hydration remains important for all physical activities.

Motion Sickness

  • For car or bus travel on winding roads (e.g., in Burgundy countryside).
  • Bring appropriate over-the-counter medication if susceptible.
  • Natural remedies (ginger) might offer relief.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Wine Tasting

A small Notebook and pen aid in taking notes on wines and vineyards. Consider smart casual attire for cellar visits.

  • Notebook & Pen
  • Comfortable shoes (for walking vineyards)
  • Casual/Smart Casual attire
  • Enthusiasm for discovery

Cycling Gear

For extensive cycling on the Voie des Vignes, padded cycling shorts and gloves elevate comfort. A Small daypack for water and snacks proves useful. Bicycles are easily rented in Dijon.

  • Padded cycling shorts (optional)
  • Cycling gloves (optional)
  • Small daypack
  • Reusable water bottle

Hiking Equipment

Comfortable hiking shoes or Sturdy walking shoes work well for trails. A Small backpack and a Reusable water bottle provide value.

  • Sturdy walking/hiking shoes
  • Small backpack
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Layered clothing

Rent vs. Bring Equipment

Consider Renting

  • Bicycles: Easily rented via Vélodi (bike-sharing) or private shops.
  • Car: For regional exploration, avoids international shipping.
  • Specialized photography lenses for short-term projects.
  • Camping gear if only for a night or two.

Consider Bringing

  • Personal medication with a doctor's note.
  • Specific toiletries (brands hard to find).
  • Comfortable walking/hiking shoes already broken in.
  • Your preferred camera (if professional or enthusiast).

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items contribute to comfort, security, and convenience during your trip. A Travel pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs foster comfort during travel. A Money belt or an RFID-blocking wallet provides extra security for valuables. Luggage locks offer peace of mind.

Comfort & Security Items

  • Travel pillow, eye mask, earplugs
  • Money belt / RFID-blocking wallet
  • Luggage locks
  • Small padlock for hostel lockers

Reusable & Region-Specific

Carry a Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste and stay hydrated. A Reusable shopping bag serves well for market visits. A Small umbrella or Packable rain jacket proves useful for sudden showers. A Small French phrasebook or Translation app aids basic communication.

Sustainability & Local Experience

  • Reusable water bottle & shopping bag
  • Small umbrella/rain jacket
  • French phrasebook/translation app
  • Local guide or map

Sustainable Travel Items

Solid Toiletries

Shampoo, conditioner bars.

Reusable Utensils

For picnics or street food.

Travel Charger

For multiple devices to reduce adaptors.

Small Trash Bag

For waste until proper disposal.

Destination-Specific Items

Burgundy Wine Route

  • Wine route map/app for Côte de Nuits & Beaune.
  • Small wine opener (if purchasing bottles).
  • Wine bottle protectors for luggage.

City Exploration

  • Dijon city guide or Walking tour guidebook.
  • Compact camera for architectural details.
  • Collapsible bag for market purchases.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to maximize space and reduce wrinkles. Consider packing cubes for organization.

Wear your heaviest shoes on the travel day.