France is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. It’s no surprise so many people want to come there to see the Eiffel Tower in Paris, stroll the quiet streets of Domme, and see the gorgeous cliffs of Ploumanac’h. Pleasant weather and welcoming locals make it even more desirable. Today, we will present you with a detailed guide on what you need to pack, use, and download to ensure a smooth trip to France for the first time.
Travelling to France for the First Time
Clothes
The clothes you pick will depend on the season.
While spring and summer are most popular, France is just as beautiful in winter and fall — without as many tourists crowding the streets!
Spring is rather unpredictable, so it’s essential to layer. Make sure you can put on more clothes to stay warm in the morning, and take some of them off in the afternoon.
A trench coat, light shirts and blouses, jeans, and a couple of sweaters will do the job.
Fall is similar in weather, except more rainy, so take an umbrella with you.
Summer, on the other hand, is quite hot. Light, breathable clothes are key to travelling during this season.
During winter, bundle up as much as possible, as the temperature can drop to 32°F.
It snows sometimes, so layers and warm footwear are required for comfort.
Digital Tools
Your first trip to France won’t be complete without getting lost.
Yet, you can quickly get out of this situation with a reliable map application.
Get an offline version, if possible, or invest in an eSIM.
This service allows you to stay connected, no matter what — no public Wi-Fi or physical cards required.
Also, set up a local public transportation app to buy tickets and check bus, tram, and train schedules.
Documents
Depending on your nationality, you will need a passport and a visa.
Your passport should be valid for at least six months after the travel dates, or it might get rejected at the border.
Make sure it has two blank pages for stamps.
If you need a visa, take it with you alongside proof of accommodation and return tickets.
Travel insurance is required for a visa and recommended for all visitors in France.
It covers the essentials:
- medical emergencies;
- lost baggage;
- cancellations (transit tickets, hotel bookings, etc.);
- liability protection.
The printed copies of your insurance, flight tickets, and hotel bookings should always be with you.
This might be requested when crossing the border and can be helpful if something happens to your gadgets.
Useful Tech
In France, you will need your smartphone, charger, and power bank to stay connected all the time.
Maps, communication with the locals, and taking photos are all important, even when you can’t connect to the grid.
When you can, however, you might need a travel adapter.
Buy a universal one if you travel often, or opt for the one used in France: Type C and Type E plugs (230V).
Welcome to France!
Packing and planning before departure can be stressful, but you will feel the tension leave your body once you arrive in France.
Just follow the steps in the guide above, and your trip will turn out smooth and pleasant.
And if you want one less thing to worry about once you land, set up the best eSIM before you go so you have data for maps, tickets, and messages from the moment you step off the plane.
