What to Pack Clothing: Ajaccio

Summer Attire June-August

Focus on lightweight, breathable fabrics. Cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking synthetics work well. Pack shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and Swimwear.

Evening & Sun Protection

Evenings can bring a light coastal breeze, so include a light cover-up or thin long-sleeved shirt.
A wide-brimmed hat provides good Sun protection.
Don't forget your Sunglasses for bright days.

Spring & Autumn Layers

Layers are important for these seasons. Start with long-sleeved shirts for comfort.

Essential Items

Add light sweaters or fleeces for cooler mornings and evenings.
A Waterproof and windproof jacket is highly recommended for occasional rain and brisk winds.
Jeans or comfortable trousers are suitable. If hiking, bring specific Hiking pants.

Footwear Recommendations

City Exploration

Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sandals. Ajaccio's Old Town has hills and cobblestone streets, good support matters.

City walks

Beach & Water Activities

Flip-flops or Waterproof sandals. Consider Water shoes for rocky coves or pebbles.

Coastal comfort

Hiking & Evenings

For trails, Sturdy hiking shoes or boots with ankle support. Break them in. Dressier shoes for upscale dining.

Trail and dinner

Important Documents

Essential Travel Papers

Careful organization of your documents before and during your trip reduces stress. Keep physical and digital copies of everything important.

Original passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages).
Physical visa (if needed) with passport.
Photocopies of passport & visa, kept separate.
Digital copies (photos/scans) on phone, cloud, email.

Printed travel insurance policy (number, 24/7 emergency contact, coverage summary).
International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside national driver's license (non-EU drivers).
Vaccination records and doctor's note for conditions/medications/allergies.
Printed/digital copies of all reservations (flights, ferry, accommodation, car, tours).

Tech & Electronics

Power & Plugs

France operates on 230V at 50Hz. This differs from North America (120V/60Hz).

Considerations

Check devices for dual voltage (100-240V). A Voltage converter is needed if not dual voltage.
Ajaccio uses Type E and Type F electrical sockets.
A universal Travel adapter with multiple plug types is best.

Mobile Phone & SIM Cards

Most modern smartphones work with GSM networks in France. Check if your phone is "unlocked" for other SIM cards.

Options for Connectivity

EU Roaming: Existing SIM card works at domestic rates for EU citizens.
Local SIM Card: For non-EU travelers, buy a local Prepaid SIM card (Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom).
eSIM: Newer phones activate a digital plan without a physical SIM card. Consider Airalo.

Data Backup & Photography

Camera Gear

A Compact mirrorless camera or DSLR with a versatile lens. Extra batteries and plenty of memory cards are needed for the scenic views.

Portable Power

A Portable charger or High-capacity power bank keeps devices charged on the go. Useful for navigation, photos, or communication.

Backup Solutions

Regularly back up photos and documents. Use cloud services (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud). An External hard drive or large USB flash drive for physical backup.

Health & Wellness Essentials

First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit for minor issues. Prevents small problems from impacting your trip.

Kit Contents

Basic Pain Relievers (Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen), Anti-Diarrhea Medication.
Antiseptic Wipes and Bandages, Blister Plasters.
Motion Sickness Tablets, Allergy Medication, Antacids.

Medications & Protection

Carry all prescription medications in original containers. Bring a copy of your prescription.

Essential Supplies

For controlled substances, also carry a doctor's note. Pack enough for entire trip plus extra days in carry-on.
High-SPF Sunscreen and After-sun lotion. Insect repellent is useful for evenings.
Bring travel-sized versions of preferred hygiene brands. Hand sanitizer is useful.

Special Health Notes

Motion Sickness

Ajaccio is coastal, so altitude sickness is not a concern.
Motion sickness remedies are useful for ferry travel or boat excursions.
This applies to trips like Scandola Nature Reserve or Sanguinaires Islands.

Water & Hygiene

Tap water in Ajaccio and Corsica is generally safe to drink.
A Water purification system is not needed for general city travel.
For extensive backcountry hiking, a Portable water filter bottle or Purification tablets could be considered.

Activity Gear

Hiking Essentials

Sturdy, broken-in Hiking boots or shoes. Moisture-wicking Socks to prevent blisters.

Trekking poles for stability.
A Small daypack for water, snacks, Light jacket, and First aid kit.
A Headlamp for early starts or unexpected delays.
Always inform someone of your route if hiking solo.

Water Activities

Swimsuit and a Quick-dry towel for beach days.

Goggles, snorkel, and mask: Bringing your own ensures proper fit and hygiene.
Water shoes protect feet from rocky beaches or sea urchins.
A large Beach towel or sarong.
A Beach bag for essentials.

Photography Gear

Extra batteries and memory cards for your camera. The stunning scenery leads to many photos.

A Lightweight tripod for sunset shots or low-light conditions.
A Waterproof bag or case for your camera if near water.
Clean your lenses regularly to avoid haze.
Consider a drone for aerial shots (check local regulations).

Rent or Buy?

Items Better to Rent

Snorkeling gear: Available for rent at many beach clubs and dive centers.
Bicycles: Rent from shops in Ajaccio (electric bikes available).
Beach chairs and umbrellas: Often available for rent at popular beaches.
Scuba Diving Gear: Dive centers provide all necessary equipment for guided dives.

Items Better to Bring

Hiking poles: Bringing your own ensures comfort and familiarity.
Camping gear: Bringing your own lightweight gear is often more reliable.
High-quality Mask and snorkel: If you are an avid snorkeler.
Camera equipment: Your own camera and lenses for familiarity.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items contribute to comfort and security, for a smoother travel experience.

Smart Packing

Travel neck pillow, Eye mask and earplugs for transportation.
Lightweight blanket or Shawl for warmth on chilly flights or ferries.
Money belt or hidden pouch for passports, cash, credit cards.
Small Padlock for luggage or hostel lockers.

Reusable Items & Essentials

Embrace sustainable travel with reusable options and other useful items.

Eco-Conscious Choices

Reusable water bottle (tap water safe).
Reusable shopping bag for market visits.
Reusable utensils/straw for street food/picnics.
Compact Travel towel (quick-drying, space-saving).

Local & Misc. Essentials

Travel Guide

A good quality guidebook for Corsica for detailed info beyond Ajaccio.

Map of Corsica

A detailed physical map (IGN for hiking) aids navigation where cell service is limited.

Daypack

A Lightweight daypack (15-25 liters) for daily excursions.

Rain Gear

Small Umbrella or Lightweight rain jacket for sudden showers.

Local Availability Notes

Bring from Home

Specific brands of toiletries if you have sensitive skin or preferences.
Specialized dietary foods (e.g., rare allergens, specific vegan products).
Contact lenses and solution; bring enough for your trip.

General Availability

Pharmacies and supermarkets stock common hygiene items.
Major supermarkets offer a reasonable selection of organic and specialty items.
A book or e-reader for downtime on beaches, travel, or quiet evenings.

Packing Pro Tip

Pack a small, foldable duffel bag or tote. This creates extra space for souvenirs or dirty laundry on your return journey.

Consider a small, lightweight Dry bag if you plan water activities. This protects your phone, camera, and other electronics from splashes or accidental drops.

What to Pack Clothing