What To Pack for Paris in the Summer
Summer in France is a popular time to visit with extra travel time with kids out of school and extended vacations. The beginning of the summer months can be cooler and you can expect warmer days come June leading into July. It is a good idea to pack layers when planning for summer in Paris as the weather can be unpredictable. It is a great time to be in Paris with so many outdoor activities and events. The city is truly buzzing at the start of warm weather.
What to Pack for Paris in the Summer
You can use my Paris packing list and suggestions to help you pack for Paris in the summer. Mix and match the Parisian style with your own to make it unique. There is the stereotypical French girl look, but she is constantly evolving, and you will see this as you explore Paris.
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Paris Weather in The Summer
Check the weather forecast before you travel and make any modifications to your wardrobe. There are so many times I don’t want to believe the temperatures that show up when I search the weather, but those typically aren’t too far off. Expect a wide variety of temperatures when traveling in the summer. Heat waves aren’t out of the norm these days, and not every apartment or restaurant has air conditioning. Check with your accommodations when booking to make sure there is air conditioning or fans to keep cool. I spent a few days in Paris during a heat wave, which was uncomfortable. Luckily, my hotel room had air conditioning, and I could have some relief while I slept.
The forecast for rain can change daily in Paris. I anticipate at least a day of rain during your trip, and it is good to pack a trench coat, rain jacket, and umbrella for rainy days. You may be lucky and not have a rainy day, but it is best to plan.
Daylight Hours in Paris
If you come from the US, you may not expect such an early sunrise and late sunset. In June, the sunrise is around 5:45 am and the sunset is at 9:45 roughly. You will have 16 hours of sunlight in Paris. This is great for experiencing the city and the energy that fills the streets of Paris. Prepare for hot and sunny days. Do not forget a sun hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle while exploring the city of light.
Comfortable Shoes for Paris in the Summer
Comfortable walking shoes for Paris are a must. You will want to pack a pair of sneakers for long days of exploring and walking around the city. These Vejas are what a lot of French women are wearing right now. The Vejas are sold out almost everywhere in the US but should be restocked in August at Anthropologie. You can purchase them in Paris at the major department stores or the Vejas store. I recommend ordering them now and shipping them when they are back in stock if you have an eye on them.
Another pair of favorite sneakers are these from Madewell. You do need to break them in a bit before a long trip but once you have, they will mold to your feet and you will love them. They are also under $100.
You should plan on a lot of walking in Paris, and having more than one pair of shoes to rotate to keep your feet comfortable is good. It is not uncommon to walk 10 miles a day without even trying. It is the best way to see Paris is on foot. The metro or bus is a great option to get across town quickly and easily if you don’t want to walk.
If you pack a pair of heels, espadrille or kitten heels are recommended. Paris is filled with cobblestone streets, I typically stay away from stiletto heels unless you are jumping into a taxi straight to dinner.
Pack a Neutral Capsule Wardrobe
Timeless classics are always a good idea when packing for Paris. The trending Parisian styles include midi skirts, crossbody bags, Birkenstock-style shoes, and wide-leg pants. Yes, I hate to say it, but skinny jeans are out in France. You can still wear them as I did but don’t be surprised if you see high-waisted wide-leg pants. A neutral capsule wardrobe consists of a few items, such as classic t-shirts, a little black dress, a good pair of denim, ballet flats, and sneakers. You can mix and match these items to make multiple Paris outfits and even pack them all in a carry-on.
Shorts are acceptable in Paris, make sure they aren’t short shorts. Sézane has some super cute ones that are right in line with Parisian fashion trends.
Pack a sweater for cooler days and nights to throw over a dress or t-shirt. A light jacket such as a denim jacket goes easily over a dress, or if you are planning time in May or June, you might want to pack a leather jacket.
A scarf is a perfect Parisian accessory, and even in the summer, you will see French women wearing a light scarf as an accessory. You can always tie it on a handbag as well for a pop of color.
What to Pack for a Day Out in Paris
A portable charger is a must for me so I can stay connected with friends and family on the go as well as use google maps. Maps and social media will zap your battery pretty quickly. If you have a phone with a decent upgraded camera, you really don’t need to carry around a good camera with you. The iPhone can capture amazing images and they are large enough to print for small frames. It makes your bag so much lighter if you skip the good camera. Plus, you can use the RAW function on some phones and take great-quality photos.
A top zip bag is one of the most important things you should pack for Paris. Keeping your personal items safe as you are out and about experiencing Paris is a must. I love the bags from Cuyana. You can also easily use a Longchamp which is great for summer travel because it folds up nicely back into your luggage.
How to Not Stand Out as A Tourist in Paris
Leave the gym wear at home, including your favorite Lululemon pants. Save them for the flight home. Loud brands, bright colors, and gym shoes will be a sure sign you are a tourist. Go for the effortless look of the Parisians and dress in neutral colors. Fanny packs, money belts around your neck, and ballcaps with sports teams are dead giveaways.
Travel Accessories for Paris
If you bring one, you will want to have a travel adapter in your bag to charge your phone, computer, and camera. I purchased this from Apple, which slides on and off my charger, making it easy. A simple adapter is also inexpensive and great for your travel bag.
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