Packing Light for Paris: Spring
As the name of this blog suggests, packing light for my recent trip to Paris was a main priority, and I managed to pack 7 day’s worth of belongings in a carry-on suitcase. This was possible in large part due to my eBags packing cubes, which I use every time I travel (not sponsored!). I have 3 in size small and use each one for a different category of clothing (usually tops, bottoms, and underwear/PJs/workout gear), rolling my clothes before zipping them in. The cubes save a ton of space and help me stay organized. I also didn’t pack any single use items - almost everything could be paired together, from tops and bottoms to shoes and jackets - and I planned to wear some items more than once. Whether packing for one night or seven, I always prioritize these strategies and put my e-bags to use.
In addition to packing efficiently, Paris brings up the pressure to pack stylish, but the goal is finding that fine line between being comfortable and not looking like a tourist. I’m no fashionista, but during my recent trip I noticed that a lot of Parisians follow the high/low combination and it works really well for looking effortlessly chic but comfortable. A cute summer dress with sneakers was the most common combo I saw, perfect for logging lots of steps on a warm spring day.
Another thing to keep in mind for efficient packing and comfort are layers; they came in handy for mornings, evenings, shade, and the few rainy and cloudy hours I saw throughout my week in Paris and they also helped optimize the number of outfit combinations I was able to put together. Think: light jacket, light long sleeve shirt, scarf.
Paris packing suggestions for Spring:
Clothes:
Pants | that you can wear both during the day and dress up at night.
Spring dresses or skirts | that are easy to throw on and comfortable to move around in. I wore a couple of my dresses more than once.
Simple t-shirts and tanks | Don’t be afraid to pack your striped tops; you’ll really fit in! Make sure all tops you pack can be worn with all, or most of, your bottoms.
Spring jacket | such as a jean jacket, my personal favorite and it goes with everything. I usually wear this on the plane to save room in my bag.
Light long sleeve shirt | for layering, that can go with most of your other pieces.
Blazer | Helpful for dressing up an outfit at night.
Running clothes | for morning runs along the Seine or to the Eiffel Tower (one of the most memorable mornings of my week!).
Shoes (keep them comfortable; you'll do a lot of walking in Paris!):
Walking sneakers | such as classic Converse.
Sandals | for day and night. I live in these Steve Madden sandals all summer and they’re comfortable and versatile.
Flats | in case sandals aren't cutting it for nighttime.
Running sneakers | I wear mine on the plane to save room in my suitcase.
Accessories:
Cross body purse | that's big enough to at least fit a book. I didn’t have any issues with pickpockets, although I was warned, but I always feel more secure with a cross body bag. I use this one from Old Navy.
Canvas tote bag | Most locals bring their own bag to the grocery store or market. Ideal for carrying around cheese and wine!
Water bottle | You can drink the tap water in Paris so I filled my bottle up throughout the day. I use this running water bottle, without the insulator and pocket, because it’s so lightweight.
Scarf | Parisians love a good scarf to dress up a simple outfit. Just one scarf that can go with all your other items should do the trick. I usually wear this on the plane to stay warm.
Wine opener | although, you can buy one for cheap in Paris.
Don’t pack:
Shorts | You’ll rarely see a local in shorts.
Heels | Unless you have plans for which they’ll be required, they're not worth the space or maneuvering the narrow sidewalks.
Beret | unless you really want to stand out as a tourist!
Anything I missed?