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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

France

Season-Specific Clothing

Choosing clothing suited to the season makes for comfort. Layers are often a good idea due to varying temperatures throughout the day.

Summer Essentials June-August

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
  • Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and Swimwear.
  • Light cardigan or thin jacket for cooler evenings.

Shoulder & Winter Attire

Preparing for temperature shifts in spring/autumn and colder conditions in winter is wise for full enjoyment of your trip.

Spring/Autumn April-May, Sept-Oct

  • Layers: Long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters, comfortable trousers.
  • A waterproof or water-resistant Light jacket for showers.
  • Swimwear still applicable for late May-Sept.

Footwear Focus

General Sightseeing

Comfortable Walking shoes or sturdy Sandals stand as most important for exploring cobbled streets.

Uneven surfaces in old town.

Beach & Water Activities

Flip-flops or Water shoes find application for pebble beaches and walking to/from the sea, protecting your feet.

Shields feet from pebbles.

Hiking & Hills

For coastal paths and hills, bring appropriate Hiking shoes or light boots that furnish good support and grip.

Ideal for Moulin de Collioure viewpoints.

Essential Documents

Critical Travel Papers

Careful organization of your travel documents wards off stress and brings a smooth journey. Keep both physical and digital copies of important papers.

  • Passport and any required visa documentation.
  • Travel insurance policy information (policy numbers, emergency contacts).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if you plan to rent a car and your license is non-EU/EEA.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation (e.g., EHIC).
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations (hotels, flights, car rentals).
  • Emergency contact information (next of kin, embassy, bank helpline).
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for discounts (if applicable).
  • Keep photocopies or digital images of your passport and other important documents separate from the originals.

Technology & Electronics

Connectivity & Charging

Smartly chosen electronics elevate your travel experience, from navigation to capturing memories. Consider connectivity and charging needs for seamless operation.

Power & Phone

Photography & Apps

Collioure's stunning light and colorful scenery make it a photographer's dream.

Capturing Memories & Navigating

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize services like Google Photos or Dropbox for regular photo and document backup.

Device Protection

This shields your memories and important information if a device goes missing or damaged.

VPN Usage

For secure internet access on public Wi-Fi, consider a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

A well-prepared health kit brings peace of mind and manages common travel ailments, making it possible to enjoy your trip without interruption.

Your Personal Health Kit

  • Pack a First aid kit with painkillers (e.g., Ibuprofen), antiseptic wipes, bandages, blister plasters, antihistamines, and rehydration salts. For broader options, see Adventure Medical Kits.
  • Carry all prescription medications in original packaging, with a copy of your prescription from your doctor. Pack enough for your entire trip.
  • Include over-the-counter remedies for diarrhea, indigestion, and cold/flu symptoms.

Sun & Insect Protection

Protecting yourself from the sun and insects elevates comfort, notably during warmer months and evenings outdoors.

Climate-Appropriate Protection

Personal Hygiene & Specialized Items

Hygiene Essentials

  • Bring preferred brands of toiletries, especially for sensitive skin.
  • Local pharmacies and supermarkets stock most items.
  • Small travel-sized containers are practical for packing efficiency.

Unique Needs

  • If you rely on specific sunscreen, obscure medication, or unique snacks, bring them from home.
  • Items difficult or expensive to purchase locally are best brought.
  • A reusable shopping bag is useful for market visits.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Essentials

For extensive treks on the Sentier du Littoral or into the hills, specific gear makes for a better experience.

Water Activities

The clear waters are excellent for snorkeling. Consider personal gear or rent locally for convenience.

Cycling & Specialty Items

Collioure and its surroundings stand wonderful for cycling. Consider whether to rent or bring equipment.

  • Electric bikes (VTT Électrique) are widely available for rent.
  • Renting bikes saves transport hassle.
  • If an artist, bring a small travel watercolor set or sketchpad.
  • A Pacsafe anti-theft bag adds security for valuables.

Rent vs. Bring Decisions

Items to Rent

  • Electric bikes: highly recommended for hills, readily available for rent.
  • Snorkel gear: a good option for casual use; rentals are common.
  • Car rental: most travellers rent upon arrival, typically from airports like Perpignan or Girona.
  • Beach umbrellas/chairs: rent directly at beaches for convenience.

Items to Bring

  • Hiking shoes: bring your own broken-in pair for serious, multi-hour hikes.
  • Personal snorkel gear: if you are a dedicated snorkeler and prioritize fit/hygiene.
  • Travel adapter/power bank: essential tech for keeping devices charged.
  • Prescription medications: always bring your own, with documentation.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Beyond the basics, a few extra items truly enhance your comfort, convenience, and safety while traveling.

Travel Comfort & Security Aids

Language & Region-Specifics

A few regional essentials simplify communication and elevate your experience of Collioure.

Regional Specifics

  • A basic French phrasebook or Translation app for communication.
  • Sunglasses and a Sun hat for the strong Mediterranean sun, useful year-round.
  • Even a few basic phrases in French are appreciated by locals.
  • A physical map, though Google Maps offline works well.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste, tap water is potable.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Useful for markets, many shops charge for plastic bags.

Reusable Utensils

Handy for picnics and takeaway meals.

Energy-Saving Chargers

Minimize your carbon footprint while charging devices.

Destination-Specific Items

Mediterranean Climate Adaptation

  • Beach-ready items: swimwear, quick-dry towels, water shoes for pebbles.
  • Local guidebooks or printed maps for exploring off-grid.
  • A small corkscrew for enjoying local wines.

Cultural & Practical Items

  • A small French phrasebook for basic communication.
  • A reusable market bag for shopping at local markets.
  • Reading material for relaxing on the beach or in cafes.

Packing Smart

Roll clothes tightly to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes for better organization. Weigh your luggage before departure to avoid airline excess baggage fees.

Consider bringing a small, foldable duffel bag for souvenirs or extra purchases, which you can check on your return flight. This strategy keeps your main luggage lighter for outward journeys.