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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Provence, France

Spring/Autumn Layers

Layering for these shoulder seasons. Pack light sweaters, cardigans, and Long-sleeved shirts. Comfortable walking trousers or jeans are practical. A waterproof or Water-resistant jacket for unexpected showers. A light scarf can add warmth and style, proving versatile. Daytime might be mild, but evenings can cool down.

Clothing List

  • Light sweaters & cardigans.
  • Long-sleeved shirts.
  • Waterproof or water-resistant jacket.

Summer Essentials

Prepare for hot and sunny conditions. Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Shorts, skirts, and light dresses are suitable. T-shirts and tank tops for daytime. Bring a Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings, especially if the Mistral wind blows. Pack Swimwear if you plan to visit pools or nearby beaches. A Wide-brimmed sun hat provides Sun protection. Sunglasses are also needed.

Warm Weather Attire

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen).
  • Swimwear for pools or beaches.
  • Wide-brimmed sun hat and sunglasses.

Footwear Recommendations

Main Footwear

Comfortable, broken-in Walking shoes or sneakers are the most important. They serve well on cobblestones, uneven pavements, and during extensive sightseeing. Moisture-wicking Socks help prevent blisters.

Cobblestone Ready

Secondary Footwear

Pack Sandals or lighter shoes for summer evenings, or dressier shoes if your itinerary includes more formal occasions.

Evening or Casual

Winter Footwear

Waterproof boots are recommended for winter visits to keep your feet dry and warm, especially with the Mistral wind.

Warm & Dry

Essential Documents

Important Papers

Both physical and digital copies are recommended.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation: Carry originals, keep copies separate.
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information: Physical and digital copies.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable): For non-EU/EEA license holders, with national license.
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Useful for medical emergencies.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Accommodation, flights, tours.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Physical list, separate from phone.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (if applicable): ISIC, European Youth Card.
  • Carry originals in a secure place like a money belt or hotel safe.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Modern travel often relies on electronics. Prepare your devices for use in France to stay connected and capture memories.

Power Adapter & SIM Card

Camera & Apps

Capture your memories and navigate with ease.

Tech Tools

  • Camera Equipment: Smartphone camera, or DSLR/Mirrorless with versatile lenses from B&H Photo. Pack a dedicated Camera bag and extra batteries.
  • Navigation Apps: Google Maps, Maps.me (offline maps).
  • Translation Apps: Google Translate (offline French pack).

Data & Communication

Backup Solutions

Cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) for photos and documents. An External hard drive or large USB drive for physical backup.

Local Service Apps

SNCF Connect for train tickets. TCRA website for local bus/tram schedules. Uber is available but coverage varies.

Communication App

WhatsApp is widely used in France for messaging.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Essentials

A well-stocked Personal first aid kit and necessary wellness items prevent minor issues from affecting your trip.

First Aid Contents

Medications & Sun Protection

Ensure your health items are suitable for the climate and accessible.

Important Health Items

  • Prescription Medications: Original containers, doctor's note for controlled substances.
  • Over-the-Counter Medications: For cold/flu, indigestion, specific regular items.
  • Insect Repellent: For warmer months. High-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, hat for strong Provençal sun.

Special Considerations

Altitude & Motion Sickness

  • Avignon is low elevation, no altitude sickness concern.
  • Day trips on winding roads might benefit from motion sickness medication.
  • Water purification is not needed; tap water is safe.

Personal Hygiene

  • Common toiletries are readily available in supermarkets and pharmacies.
  • Bring specific preferred brands or sensitive skin products.
  • Travel-sized, refillable bottles are practical.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking & Walking Gear

For serious hikes outside Avignon, a Small daypack for water, snacks, and layers. Comfortable walking shoes are sufficient for most regional park trails.

  • Small daypack
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Water bottle
  • Snacks

Cycling Equipment

If planning extensive cycling, consider bringing cycling shorts or gloves for comfort. While helmets are not mandatory for adults in France, they are highly recommended. You can rent bicycles (including electric bikes) from local shops.

  • Cycling shorts (optional)
  • Gloves (optional)
  • Helmet (recommended)
  • Rentable bicycles (e-bikes available)

Picnic Gear

A compact, lightweight Picnic blanket enhances outdoor meals sourced from local markets. No unique specialty items are generally required for standard tourist experiences in Avignon.

  • Compact picnic blanket
  • Reusable utensils
  • Market basket
  • Reusable water bottle

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Bring These

  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Personal first-aid kit.
  • Prescription medications.
  • Universal power adapter.

Consider Renting These

  • Bicycles: Easily rentable in Avignon for city or countryside exploration.
  • Specialty Items: For rock climbing or kayaking, rent from specialized outfitters.
  • Car: For flexible regional exploration, easily rented.
  • Helmets: Often available with bike rentals.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comfort & Security

These items improve comfort, security, and general convenience during your travels.

Essentials

Preferred Brands & Specific Needs

While general items are readily available, consider bringing preferred brands or specialized items.

Packing Specifics

  • Toiletries: Preferred brands or sensitive skin products.
  • Dietary Items: If you have restrictions.
  • Specialized Medications: If specific selection or prices are a concern locally.
  • Nordace: Explore modern travel bags and accessories from Nordace.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Refill from public fountains.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For market purchases.

Reusable Utensils

For picnics and street food.

Water Filter Bottle

Consider LifeStraw if venturing into rural areas.

Destination-Specific Items

General Travel

  • Passport & visa copies (digital and physical).
  • Secure money belt/pouch.
  • Small first-aid kit (Adventure Medical Kits).

Security & Comfort

  • Anti-theft bag (Pacsafe) for valuables.
  • Neck pillow and eye mask for flights.
  • Sunscreen and hat for Provençal sun.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light and choose versatile items to avoid heavy luggage. Rolling clothes saves space.

For city exploration, comfort in shoes takes precedence over style.