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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Northern France, France

Clothing Recommendations: Spring & Summer

Days are mild in spring, but evenings are cool, and sudden showers are possible. In summer, it is warmest, ideal for beach activities, but evenings still bring a chill from the sea. Consider Amazon for various clothing items.

Layering Guidance

  • Spring: Long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters, comfortable trousers or jeans, and a Waterproof windbreaker. A Scarf for warmth and style.
  • Summer: Lighter clothing like t-shirts, Shorts, skirts, and dresses for daytime. A light sweater, cardigan, or a denim jacket for evenings. Pack a Swimsuit and beach attire.
  • Layering: Start with a base layer, add a mid-layer (sweater or fleece), and top with a water-resistant outer shell. This allows adjustments for temperature changes.

Clothing Recommendations: Autumn & Winter

Temperatures begin to cool in autumn, and the likelihood of rain rises. Winter brings the coldest months, with higher precipitation and persistent coastal winds. Consider Nordace for modern travel bags.

Layering Guidance

Footwear Recommendations

Comfortable Walking Shoes

The most important footwear item. You will walk a lot. Choose shoes with good arch support and cushioning.

Ideal for city exploration and museums.

Waterproof Shoes

Especially in cooler or wetter months, waterproof shoes keep your feet dry and warm, specifically near the coast or in rain.

For wet weather or coastal walks.

Sandals/Flip-flops

For summer beach visits or relaxing indoors. Consider one pair of versatile, dressier shoes for a nice dinner.

Beach and casual wear.

Essential Documents

Important Travel Documents

Keeping your important documents organized and secure is a priority for smooth international travel.

  • Passport and visa documentation: Carry originals, photocopies, and digital copies stored separately.
  • Travel insurance policy information: Carry policy number and emergency contact details, both physical and digital.
  • International driving permit (if applicable): For car rental, obtain this before leaving your home country.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation: Carry doctor's notes or prescriptions for medications.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations: Flights, accommodation, train, car, tours.
  • Emergency contact information: List of important phone numbers separate from your phone.
  • Student/senior/press IDs for discounts (if applicable): Official IDs for potential museum or attraction discounts.
  • Cultural dress code: No strict dress code, but modest attire is respectful for religious sites.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Stay connected and powered up with the right electronic gear for Dunkirk.

Electrical Needs

Camera & Apps

Ensure your photographic memories are captured and that you navigate with ease.

Photography & Digital Tools

  • Camera equipment: A Compact digital camera or your Smartphone. Photography enthusiasts bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera. Pack extra batteries and memory cards.
  • Portable chargers and power banks: Highly recommended for phones and USB-chargeable devices.
  • Recommended apps: Google Maps or Apple Maps for navigation, Google Translate or DeepL for translation, DK'Bus app for local transport, TripAdvisor or TheFork for dining.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize cloud storage services (Google Photos, Dropbox, iCloud) to back up your photos and important documents regularly.

VPN Services

Consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure internet access.

Physical Backups

This protects your memories and information in case your devices are lost or damaged.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

A small, well-stocked health and wellness kit quickly addresses minor issues, allowing you to continue enjoying your trip without interruption.

Kit Essentials

  • A basic Travel first aid kit includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, medical tape, pain relievers like Ibuprofen, allergy medication, antacids or Anti-diarrhea medication, and blister plasters.
  • Prescription medications: Carry all in original packaging with pharmacy labels. Bring a copy of your prescription or a doctor's note for controlled substances.
  • Over-the-counter medications: Bring small quantities of familiar remedies for cold and flu, motion sickness, or mild laxatives.

Sun & Insect Protection

Protect yourself from the elements to stay comfortable during your trip.

Climate-Appropriate Protection

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Sickness

  • Not applicable for Dunkirk.
  • Dunkirk is a flat coastal city.
  • No specific remedies for altitude needed.

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness remedies might be useful for car or ferry travel, depending on individual sensitivity.
  • Over-the-counter medications are available at pharmacies.
  • Especially consider for ferry crossings if prone to seasickness.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Cycling Gear

If you plan on extensive cycling, cycling gloves might provide comfort. Helmets can usually be rented with bikes.

  • Cycling gloves for comfort.
  • Helmets are often available with rentals.
  • Consider comfort for longer rides.
  • Bikes are easily rented in Dunkirk.

Watersports Gear

If you are experienced and plan to participate in watersports (kitesurfing/windsurfing), consider bringing your wetsuit or specialized gear if you prefer your own.

  • Personal wetsuit (optional).
  • Specialized watersports gear.
  • Rental shops provide equipment.
  • Weigh the cost and convenience of bringing bulky items.

Beach Essentials

For beach activities, a beach towel, a good book, and a portable beach mat or lightweight blanket. No items especially unique to Dunkirk beyond general travel gear.

  • Beach towel.
  • Good book or entertainment.
  • Portable beach mat or blanket.
  • Swimsuit (if not already packed).

Rent vs Buy Decision Matrix

Items to Rent

  • Bicycles are easily rented in Dunkirk, making it unnecessary to bring your own.
  • Watersports equipment can also be rented locally.
  • Helmets for cycling are often included with bike rentals.
  • Consider renting bulky items to save luggage space.

Items to Bring

  • Specialized medication should always be brought.
  • Specific brand toiletries might be difficult to find locally.
  • If you have dietary restrictions, bring a few familiar snack foods.
  • An Umbrella for unexpected showers.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items contribute to comfort, security, and overall travel practicality.

Travel Comfort

Reusable Items

Contribute to sustainable travel by bringing reusable items.

Eco-Friendly Packing

  • Reusable water bottle: Fill from the tap for free, reducing plastic waste.
  • Reusable shopping bag: Many French shops charge for plastic bags or do not provide them.
  • Reusable coffee cup/Travel mug: For takeaway coffee, reducing waste.
  • Portable cutlery/straw set: If you enjoy street food or picnics and want to avoid single-use plastics.

Sustainable Travel Items

Water Bottle

Refillable, reducing plastic waste.

Shopping Bag

For groceries and purchases.

Coffee Cup

For takeaway drinks.

Cutlery Set

For street food and picnics.

Destination-Specific Items

General Essentials

Cultural & Event Items

  • Items related to the Dunkirk Carnival (if visiting during that time) purchased locally to enhance the experience.
  • Small phrasebook or translation app for French.
  • Historical guide to Operation Dynamo for understanding.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to maximize space and reduce wrinkles.

Use packing cubes to organize your luggage and make unpacking easier.