What To Pack for Paris in the Summer
The short answer: For Paris in the summer, pack a neutral capsule wardrobe with a few pops of color (dresses, midi skirts, wide-leg linen pants, classic tees), a pair of comfortable walking sneakers plus one dressier sandal, a light layer/sweater for cool evenings, a travel umbrella, sunscreen, sunglasses, a light scarf, and a crossbody bag. Scroll down for the full list, plus my downloadable Paris packing PDF.
Summer in France is a popular time to visit, with extra travel time available as kids are out of school and enjoy extended vacations. The beginning of the summer months can be cooler, and you can expect warmer days come June, leading into July, with an occasional heat wave or two. It is a good idea to pack layers when planning for summer in Paris, as the weather can be unpredictable. It’s a great time to be in Paris, where numerous outdoor activities and events are available. The city is truly buzzing at the start of warm weather. My favorite part of summers in Paris is the late evenings, around 10 p.m., when the sun starts to set, and the city is full of energy. Think picnics on the Seine, ice cream strolls, late music celebrations (like Fête de la Musique), and stunning, colorful sunsets.
The Essential Paris Summer Packing List
Clothes for Paris in the Summer
- 3–4 dresses (mix of day and evening). Linen for the super hot days.
- 1–2 midi skirts
- 2–3 tops or blouses (a white button-down is a great staple)
- 1 pair wide-leg linen pants or jeans
- 1 light sweater or cardigan
- 1 light jacket (denim, leather, or trench depending on the month)
- 1 little black dress
Comfortable Walking Shoes for Paris in The Summer
- 1 pair broken-in sneakers (Sambas or New Balance) is very Parisian.
- 1 pair espadrilles or ballet flats
- 1 dressier sandal for dinners
Bags to Pack for Paris
- Zippered tote for daytime
- Crossbody bag with a clasp for evening
- Optional: basket bag for markets and picnics. This does not always fit in a carry-on and makes a good personal item if you insist.
Summer Accessories for Paris
- Lightweight silk or cotton scarf
- Sunglasses
- Straw or packable sun hat
- A few pieces of simple jewelry
- Fan
Toiletries and Essentials
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+) Easy to find at any French pharmacy if you forget.
- Travel umbrella
- Travel adapter (Apple World Adapter is my favorite)
- Portable phone charger
Documents and Extras to Pack for Paris
- Passport + backup copies
- Travel insurance details (I use Faye)
- One primary credit card + one backup in the hotel safe
- Euros for tipping and small purchases
- Small wallet for credit card and coins
One of the most popular and trending looks in French fashion right now is a more casual approach. A baseball hat, sneakers, and a crossbody bag. I have this one from Rivedroite, a famous French brand that is affordable. Mine is bright red.
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 create a unique look. There is the stereotypical French girl look, but she is constantly evolving, and you will see this as you explore Paris. There is the stereotypical French girl look, but she is continuously changing, and you will see this as you explore Paris.
For trends I spotted in Paris on my most recent trip in May, which I’m sharing here to give you some ideas on what Parisians are wearing now.
Skirts for Paris in the Summer
Dresses for Paris in the Summer
Classic Shirts and Blouses for Paris Summer Outfits
(The above post is shopable.) Just click the link
Paris Weather in The Summer
Check the weather forecast before you travel and adjust your wardrobe accordingly. There are many times when I don’t want to believe the temperatures that appear when I search the weather, but those are typically not 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. Verify with your accommodations when booking to ensure there is air conditioning or fans to keep you cool. I spent a few days in Paris during a heat wave, which was uncomfortable. Luckily, my hotel room had air conditioning, and I was able to get some relief while I slept.
What to Pack for Paris During A Heat Wave
Loose-fitting fabrics such as linen and cotton are ideal in a heat wave. Do not worry about linen wrinkling during this time, everyone is all just trying to stay cool and comfortable in Paris when it is hot.
A fan. Parisians will hold battery-operated fans or beautiful paper fans with a pop of color. I saw just about everyone with a fan on this last trip during my June heat wave. This one from H&M is cute and affordable. I packed this one from Cuyana, which is more of an investment piece I will have for a few seasons.
Avène, Caudalie, or another thermal spray is easily found at any pharmacy. Reapply sunscreen often. Also, found at any pharmacy. I love the SPF 50 sunscreen sticks from Roses, Avène, and Caudalie. These make reapplication a breeze; just keep it in your bag.
A long skirt or dress that is lightweight and moves easily.
Sun hat and sunglasses for protection.
You can read this post on how to survive a heat wave in Paris from my most recent trip this summer.
Plan for Rain in Paris No Matter the Season
The forecast for rain in Paris can change daily. I anticipate at least one day of rain during your trip, so it’s a good idea to pack a trench coat, rain jacket, and umbrella for those rainy days. You may be lucky and not have a rainy day, but it’s best to plan.
My Carry On Bag and Travel Essentials
I always pack in a carry-on for Paris and prefer to use my Away suitcase. Here are all the details for what I use inside, and the most asked-about item is always the bag I carry on top. I use The Everyday Bag from Away, which fits under my seat or above in the overhead compartment and is used as my personal item. I bring my laptop, tech pack, chargers, and camera in this bag. If you don’t need to pack all your tech equipment like me, you can easily fit in an extra change of clothes and your Kindle in this bag when you land in Paris.
Daylight Hours in Paris During the Summer
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 a.m., 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. 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 to Wear in Paris in the Summer
Comfortable walking shoes are a must for comfortable walking in Paris. You will want to pack a pair of sneakers for long days of exploring and walking around the city. These Vejas are what many French women are wearing right now. I also love these New Balance shoes. I cannot rave about them enough. It was easy to walk 25,000 steps with no problem.
You should plan on walking a lot in Paris, and having more than one pair of shoes to rotate is beneficial for keeping your feet comfortable. It is not uncommon to walk 10 miles a day without even trying. 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, espadrilles are a recommended alternative. Paris is filled with cobblestone streets. I typically avoid stiletto heels unless I jump into a taxi straight to dinner.
Summer Bags for Paris
I plan to be out for a bit while exploring Paris. You can always pop back to your Paris apartment or hotel room to rest or cool off in the middle of the day. I like to bring a bag with me. Typically, I carry a zippered tote with my camera inside during the day. In the evening, a cross-body tote with a clasp is my favorite, as it provides enough room for my phone and wallet.
Basket bags are big in Paris. While they don’t have a zip at the top, you must be mindful of your belongings, especially on the metro and in high-traffic areas. Use these for picnics, lighter days, and the market. You can always use a crossbody bag and a basket bag for other essentials. Parisians often carry two bags, usually a canvas tote, to work or the market on weekends.
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. 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. Mix and match these items to make multiple Paris outfits and even pack them in a carry-on.
While shorts are acceptable in Paris, make sure they aren’t shorts. Sézane has some super cute ones that align 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, pairs easily with a dress. If you plan to spend time in May or June, consider packing a leather jacket.
Accessories to Pack for Paris in the Summer
A scarf is a perfect Parisian accessory. Even in the summer, you will see French women wearing light scarves. You can always tie one on a handbag for a pop of color.
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. Emulate the effortless style of the Parisians by dressing in neutral colors. Fanny packs, money belts around your neck, and ballcaps with sports teams are dead giveaways.
What to Do in Advance of Your Paris Trip
Travel insurance is always recommended when going abroad. I use Faye Insurance to ensure I am covered for delays, lost luggage, and my camera and computer. They have two different levels at different prices to choose from. Simplify your wallet when traveling and limit the number of credit cards you carry. I keep one with me and a backup one in the hotel, safe for emergencies. Cash isn’t necessary in Paris, but it is helpful for tipping and small purchases. I keep a change purse for euro coins and small dollar bills.
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 easily. A simple adapter is also inexpensive and great for your travel bag.
This post does include affiliate links that help contribute to my coffee and croissant research fund. Merci!
Bonjour, I’m Rebecca!
I’m a photographer, blogger, croissant-lover, and world traveler. I hope that Everyday Parisian inspires you by bringing a bit of France into your daily life and helps you plan the best trip to Paris with personalized recommendations for places to stay, explore, and eat.
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20 dresses and 5 skirts seems like a lot or were these examples?
examples! Since not everyone has the same budget or taste.