Provence, France
For summer (June-August), pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and skirts are useful. Choose light colors that reflect sunlight. Evenings can cool slightly; a light cardigan, scarf, or thin long-sleeved shirt gives comfort.
For winter (November-March), focus on warm layers. Sweaters, thermal long-sleeved shirts, and warm trousers are useful. A heavy coat or Down jacket is necessary. A Warm scarf, Gloves, and a hat are important, especially when the Mistral wind blows, making temperatures feel colder.
A pair of comfortable, supportive Walking shoes or sneakers is the most important item. You will spend hours exploring Arles on foot.
For summer, Sandals or lighter, comfortable shoes for evenings. For winter, waterproof shoes or boots help with damp conditions.
High heels are impractical for cobblestone streets. New, un-broken-in shoes can lead to discomfort and blisters.
Ensure all documents are valid and readily accessible. Keep both printed and digital copies.
France uses Type E (and sometimes Type F) electrical outlets (2 round pins, grounding hole). Voltage is 230V at 50Hz. A Universal travel adapter with surge protection is useful.
Bring a good camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or high-quality smartphone camera). Pack extra batteries and a large memory card. Consider a Lightweight tripod for evening shots.
Utilize services like Google Drive or Dropbox for photos and important documents. This offers remote access and redundancy.
A small, portable external hard drive can store large media files, offering another layer of backup for your memories.
Print copies of travel documents and store them separately from digital copies and original papers.
A small, personalized First aid kit is always helpful. Include basics like pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and bandages. Carry all prescription medications in original packaging, with a doctor's note for customs.
The Provençal sun is strong. Use broad-spectrum Sunscreen with a high SPF, even on cloudy days. Reapply often, especially after sweating. After-sun lotion can provide comfort.
For Arles' cobblestones, sturdy, broken-in walking shoes are most important. For Alpilles hikes, proper Hiking boots or trail shoes are beneficial.
If cycling in Camargue or Via Rhôna, padded cycling shorts enhance comfort. Bring your own Helmet for fit and hygiene. A Small backpack or panniers for water and snacks.
For Camargue excursions, Binoculars make wildlife viewing better. For photography, a Lightweight travel tripod for stable shots, and a Polarizing filter to reduce glare on sunny days.
These items enhance comfort, security, and convenience during your travels. A Travel neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs are useful for long journeys.
A reusable water bottle is a good investment, as tap water in Arles is potable. This saves money and helps the environment. A reusable shopping bag is handy for market purchases or groceries.
Reduces plastic waste; tap water is potable.
Handy for market visits and groceries.
For your daily beverage, minimize disposable cups.
Shampoo/conditioner bars reduce plastic bottles.
Roll your clothes to maximize space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize different categories of items.
Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase and lighter, softer items on top. Keep essentials like a change of clothes and medications in your carry-on.
