Packing light, especially if you will visit more than once city or taking the train, is an art. A light bag can make the difference between a pleasant or unpleasant experience. Use these tips and tricks to pack light.
Many French train stations do not have lockers available, and a quick daytrip to a passing village can be unbearable dragging three huge suitcases around town (trust me, I know!).
On the flip side, you don't want to get to France and realize you don't have your prescription medicine, extra contact lenses, essential clothes, underwear, etc.
There is an art to packing light AND packing well at the same time. Use these tips and tricks to travel as lightly as possible, without missing important items from home.
General tips
- As soon as you know you will visit France, put a box or basket in a convenient place to drop little necessities for the trip into. Also consult a packing checklist and keep it on top. You can keep adding items, scratching them off or checking them off.
- Buy a small collapsible duffel bag to fold up and cram into your main bag. You can be certain you will buy something in France, and this will allow you to add one manageable bag to your luggage without spending money over in France at an expensive tourist shop.
- Think long and hard about what you plan to buy there. If there is something you are packing, but will probably buy while in France, just get it there.
- Get a rolling suitcase or backpack. Even a light back can get heavy after a while carrying it around. Don't think that the wheels will save you all the time, though. If a bag is too heavy to carry, you won't be able to get it up and down the train platforms (usually stairs). There will be times when you have to carry that bag.
- Make that suitcase small enough to carry on the plane. That way you won't have to bother with the wait for luggage, or the potential for lost bags.
Next: Packing the Essentials