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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

The French Alps, France

Layering & Spring/Summer Attire

The ability to add or remove layers helps you adjust to temperature changes throughout the day. A typical layering system includes a moisture-wicking base, an insulating mid-layer (fleece/sweater), and a waterproof/windproof outer layer.

Seasonal Guidance

Autumn/Winter & Activity Attire

Adapting your wardrobe to cooler temperatures and specific activities will heighten your comfort.

Seasonal & Activity Specifics

Footwear for Any Terrain

City Walking Shoes

Comfortable Walking shoes or Sneakers are essential for cobbled streets, lakeside promenades, and general city exploration. Seek good support.

Old Town & Lakeside

Hiking Boots

If mountain trails beckon, Hiking boots or shoes are for you. Consider Waterproof options if wet conditions are possible.

Alpine Trails

Seasonal & Water Footwear

Sandals or flip-flops work for summer lake days. Water shoes comfort entry into pebble beaches. Waterproof, insulated boots with good grip are needed for winter snow.

Lake & Winter

Essential Documents

Important Travel Papers

Keeping your documents organized and secure will minimize travel stress.

  • Passport: Original, valid 3+ months beyond Schengen departure, issued within 10 years, two blank pages.
  • Visa Documentation (if pertinent): All visa paperwork, including the passport sticker.
  • Travel Insurance: Policy number, emergency contacts, coverage summary.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If renting a car and your license is non-EU.
  • Health Documentation: Vaccination records, medical conditions, prescription list.
  • Copies of Reservations: Printed and digital for flights, accommodation, tours. Store digital copies on phone and cloud.
  • Emergency Contacts: Family, friends, embassy/consulate in France.
  • IDs for Discounts: Student/Senior/Press IDs for potential discounts.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Modern travel often relies on electronics. Plan for their power needs and connectivity.

Connectivity Essentials

Photography & Digital Tools

Annecy's scenery calls for good photography. Digital tools will streamline your journey.

Digital Enhancements

Digital Security

VPN Services

Consider a VPN service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure internet connections, especially on public Wi-Fi.

Cloud Storage

Regularly back up photos and digital copies of documents to cloud services to safeguard against device loss or theft.

Device Security

Keep devices password-protected and use tracking features if available. Be cautious about public charging stations.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

A small, well-stocked health kit brings peace of mind for minor ailments.

Kit Contents

Sun & Insect Protection

Protection from sun and insects will greatly enhance your comfort, especially in warmer months.

Environmental Protection

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Preparations

  • Altitude sickness is not an issue in Annecy city itself.
  • When venturing into higher Alpine regions for hiking or skiing, be aware of symptoms.
  • Discuss remedies with your doctor if planning high-altitude hikes.

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness patches or pills prove useful for bus or car journeys on winding mountain roads.
  • Always follow dosage instructions and consult a doctor if needed.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Cycling Gear

Padded shorts aid comfort on longer rides. Cycling gloves offer grip and reduce fatigue.

  • Helmets are often with rentals, but your own is a preference.
  • A light backpack for snacks and water.
  • Consider an action camera for scenic rides.
  • Bring a multi-tool for minor adjustments.

Water Sports Equipment

Quick-dry clothing is convenient for water activities. A rash guard gives sun protection.

  • A Dry bag for electronics safeguards them on the water.
  • Water shoes provide comfort on pebble beaches.
  • Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
  • A quick-dry towel (Amazon link).

Skiing/Snowboarding Gear

Goggles protect eyes from snow and sun. Ski gloves are for warmth and grip.

  • Appropriate ski clothing is for warmth and weather protection.
  • Skis, boots, and poles are readily available for rent.
  • Bringing your own Ski helmet is a preference for fit and hygiene.
  • Layering is for comfort on the slopes.

Gear: Rent vs. Bring

Consider Renting These

  • Bicycles: Widely available, saves luggage space.
  • Kayaks & Paddleboards: Numerous rental spots around the lake.
  • Ski/Snowboard Equipment: Readily rented in Annecy and nearby resorts.
  • Rental quality is generally good for casual use.

Consider Bringing These

  • Specialized Gear: Only for experts or extended trips.
  • Hiking Boots: When fit is critical for comfort on long trails.
  • Personal Helmets: If you have a specific fit preference.
  • Your own gear saves time at rentals and provides known comfort.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Small items greatly increase your travel comfort and security.

Travel Aids

Hard-to-Find Essentials

Some items may prove difficult or expensive to buy locally.

Consider Bringing

  • Specific Toiletries: Especially if you have sensitive skin or particular brand loyalty.
  • Specialized Outdoor Gear: Beyond basic rental options, if you own them.
  • Certain Prescription Medications: Local equivalents might not be readily available without a French prescription.
  • A few clothespins or a travel clothesline: Useful for drying swimwear or small laundry items quickly.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Bottle

Fill with tap water to reduce plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For markets and groceries.

Travel Utensils

For picnics or street food.

Solar Charger

For small electronics on the go.

Destination-Specific Items

For Sightseeing

  • A compact Pair of binoculars can heighten wildlife viewing or distant mountain vistas.
  • A detailed city map or a reliable offline map app for navigating the Old Town.
  • A good quality camera for capturing the stunning scenery.

For Hiking & Outdoors

Packing Smart

Careful packing makes your Annecy adventure more enjoyable and stress-free.

Consider rolling clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles. Use packing cubes for organization.