The Ultimate Paris Packing List

Planning a trip to Paris and wondering what to pack? Don’t stress. There’s a simple formula: comfort + style. 

After living in Paris for two years, I noticed that Parisians prioritize feeling good in their clothes and shoes while adding a flash of personality no matter the occasion. On the streets or in the Metro, you’ll see people mix items in unexpected ways. They’ll wear worn-in sneakers with a more formal dress, or mix vintage finds with items from modern French brands. 

Morgane Sézalory founded Sézane, one of those iconic new French fashion brands. She backs me up on the need to combine comfort and style, since people walk everywhere in Paris. “It’s still the best way to discover the city,” she told me, adding: “You’ll stumble across a cute café, beautiful florists, and everyday moments of life.”

Despite the need for practicality, Parisians are always polished. Now, living back in California, I try to channel this formula while packing for my yearly trips to Paris with my French husband and daughters. We cover the basics, like comfortable shoes for exploring, appropriate evening wear for fine dining, and a travel umbrella for unexpected storms. After that, I simply pack a capsule wardrobe of pieces that make me smile. 

Packing light has another benefit, according to Jean-Marie Burlet, Guest Relations Manager at Le Bristol. After working on the iconic Right-Bank hotel for 32 years, Burlet told me that this is the number-one packing essential for Paris: “A suitcase that is not full because you will be very keen on shopping here.”

Packing Checklist for Paris

You must start with good shoes, since each arrondissement (district) offers a unique atmosphere that you can only truly experience on foot. 

For clothing, you’ll want to include versatile clothes to save room in your suitcase. When in doubt choose black, as it can take you from day to night. As for accessories, a silk scarf or statement sunglasses are an easy way to give any outfit a pop of style. Read on for our complete set of recommendations, which you can use as your Paris packing checklist.

Clothes

When I lived in Paris, I never ran out in sweats, even if it was just to go across the street to get a carton of milk. Going outside requires jeans — at a minimum. Leave your athleisure at home, and instead pack your comfiest denim, slacks, or day dress. 

In general, women can’t go wrong in most situations with a crisp T-shirt and blazer. A solid-color collared shirt will do the trick for men. If you plan to go to a nice restaurant, women can wear a sleek dress, but don’t expect to see French women in a tight skirt and stilettos. For men, Burlet advises to "remember to put a tie in your suitcase for some of the posher Parisian restaurants. Sometimes it is required to wear a tie even when it’s a bit warm, but most of the restaurant managers will accept that you take it off." 

Below are more specific clothing options to pack for Paris. And if you need some inspiration on how to style your capsule wardrobe after you arrive, head to a café terrace and start people watching.

Best Daywear for Women

Best Jeans for Women

Madewell The Darted Barrel-Leg Jean

View on Madewell.com

You’ll rarely see French women in distressed denim or too-tight skinny jeans. This pair from Madewell strikes the right balance of polished yet relaxed and will look good with sneakers, ballet flats, sandals, or ankle boots. The jeans are comfortable for long days at museums but are also stylish enough for dinner out in the Marais with the cool kids.

Best T-shirt for Women

Everlane Organic Cotton Box-Cut Tee

$35 at Everlane

With its cropped length and relaxed fit, this Everlane T-shirt gets it just right. Made of 100 percent organic cotton, it’s both breathable and soft to the touch. It’s the base you need for a blazer, cardigan, or denim jacket. I always bring a few of these whenever I head to Paris.

Best Button-down for Women

Sézane Max Shirt

View on Sezane.com

I asked Sézalory for the most versatile piece in her collection and she chose this oversized button down shirt. Take these style tips from her: “It’s perfect to accommodate any unpredictable weather in Paris: worn open over a pair of denim, over a dress, or buttoned up tucked into denim with some heeled sandals.”

Best Blazer

Zara Linen Blend Open Front Blazer

View on Zara.com

This blazer’s lightweight linen blend can act as a stylish layer in any season, while the lapel collar and shoulder pads add a touch of fun. It’s a solid choice for both casual outings and more formal events in the city. Pair it with jeans, a dress, or even shorts.

Best Cardigan for Women

Sézane Gaspard Cardigan

View on Sezane.com

This effortlessly chic cardigan features a round neckline, mother-of-pearl effect buttons, and various styling options. Wear it as a cardigan or backwards as a sweater.

Best Casual Dress for Women

Everlane The Supima Jersey Riviera Dress

$98 at Everlane

The jersey dress has a versatile design that transitions from casual daywear to an elegant evening look. I can just imagine wearing it with sneakers walking along the Seine and then popping on block heels for dinner. Made from a blend of cotton and elastane, it's soft, durable, and ideal for exploring the city.

Best Denim Jacket for Women

Levi’s 90s Black Trucker Jacket

$98 $64 at Amazon $69 at Zappos View on Levi.com

This jacket’s easy shape and weight make it suitable for layering over various outfits. The pitched silhouette adds a nostalgic '90s vibe, fitting in with Parisian street style. As Burlet explains: "The French are very fond of second-hand and vintage items. People can sell their clothes and buy second-hand clothes to have a different style.”

Best Trench for Women

Everlane The Cotton Modern Trench Coat

$268 at Everlane

The tie-front belt on this trench coat from Everlane allows for adjustable styling and ensures a flattering fit. The inclusion of a storm flap and water-resistant 100 percent cotton fabric provides practical protection against unpredictable Parisian showers, while the lining adds extra warmth, making it versatile for both mild and cooler days in the city.

Best Daywear for Men

Best Jeans for Men

Everlane The Organic Cotton Slim Fit Jean

$88 at Everlane

These jeans are slim without being too skinny, making them appropriate for both casual and semi-formal settings. Crafted from premium, midweight denim with a bit of stretch, they offer a substantial feel while ensuring freedom of movement, which is essential for exploring Paris comfortably.

Best Shirt for Men

Uniqlo Super Non-Iron Slim-Fit Shirt

View on Uniqlo.com

Men can’t go wrong with collared shirts in Paris, where you might feel out of place in a simple T-shirt. This staple from Uniqlo is 100 percent cotton and designed to require no or minimal ironing. My French husband always packs two to three of these.

Best Sweater for Men

Quince Men's Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater

View on Quince.com

Frenchmen often wear a sweater over a collared shirt when temperatures drop. Make it a cashmere sweater, with this incredibly affordable option from Quince. The brand uses premium grade-A cashmere, ethically sourced from goats located in Inner Mongolia. This crewneck is available in almost a dozen hues and is light enough to fit in your carry-on.

Best Evening Wear for Women

Best Evening Dress for Women

The Kooples Printed Pleated Long Dress

View on Thekooples.com

Long, printed dresses have been having a moment in Paris for years now…so I guess you can’t really call it a moment any more. This one, from French brand The Kooples, can be styled to be soft and feminine with ballet flats or heels, or made more urban with sneakers or boots.

Best Slacks for Women

Aritzia The Effortless Pant

View on Aritzia.com

These wide-leg pants make our list of top travel pants for women and will fit right in on the streets of Paris. Dress them up with a heel, or wear them with sneakers. You’ll appreciate their premium fabrics and versatility.

Best Top for Women

Sandro Silk Shirt With Gathered Collar

View on Sandro-paris.com

Sandro was founded in 1984 to sit between expensive luxury French brands and more affordable ready-to-wear. With its feminine take on menswear, this shirt from the brand can be dressed up or down. Pair it with slacks for a formal dinner, or wear it open over a tank with jeans.

Best Leather Jacket for Women

Maje Leather Jacket

View on Maje.com

This leather blazer from French brand Maje is dripping in cool. But it’s also practical, as it will work in formal and casual settings and keep you warm.

Best Evening Wear for Men

Best Slacks for Men

Uniqlo AirSense Relaxed Pants

View on Uniqlo.com

Uniqlo's lightweight suit pants are an affordable way to stay comfortable in more formal situations. The AirSense textile has lightweight, stretchy, moisture-wicking, and wrinkle-resistant properties, perfect for navigating Paris' varying climate and active lifestyle. Plus you can use the slacks as a full suit, by purchasing the matching blazer listed below.

Best Blazer for Men

Uniqlo AirSense Blazer

View on Uniqlo.com

This lightweight blazer from Uniqlo is great on its own, and will also complete your travel suit if you buy the AirSense pants. You’ll be happy you have it for more formal outings.

Best Tie for Men

SuitSupply Pure Silk Tie

View on Suitsupply.com

Ties might feel like a throwback, but as Burlet cautions, there could be an occasion when you need it in Paris. With this 100 percent silk option from SuitSupply, you might actually look forward to wearing a tie again!

Shoes

Selecting the right shoes is crucial for enjoying your Paris trip. This is important: make sure you break your shoes in before leaving. I’ve personally seen blisters from new shoes ruin a friend’s trip. For sneakers, there are a ton of stylish and supportive options. Flats like ballet slippers or loafers can add a chic touch, while comfortable block heels are perfect for evenings out. Men should also pack dress shoes or loafers for upscale dining experiences.

Best Sneakers for Women and Men

Adidas Sambas

$100 at Nordstrom $100 at Dicks Sporting Goods View on Footlocker.com

You’ll spot these classic, unisex sneakers on tourists and locals alike. They’re made of leather and rubber, which means they’ll keep your feet reasonably dry if there’s some rainy weather. The low-profile silhouette also allows them to work with a summer dress or slacks for men.

Best Flats for Women

Margaux The Demi Flat

View on Amazon View on Margauxny.com

During a Travel + Leisure test of the best flats, this classic style remained pristine after months of wear. Not only will they look good after miles of walking, the flats also stay comfortable, thanks to the unique adjustable fit system that allows you to tighten or loosen the toe box. With 5 millimeters of padding, they provide excellent cushioning and stability, ideal for navigating cobblestone streets.

Best Boots for Women

Soeur Gazette Boots

View on Soeur.fr

Soeur opened in 2008 on rue Bonaparte in the 6th arrondissement in Paris and ships to the U.S. With a hint of Western flair, these boots can be worn with literally anything you pack. The low heel is practical for long days, while the extended upper part of the ankle boot makes these a stylish choice for cropped pants or a dress.

Best Loafers for Women

Cole Haan Pinch Slip On

$91 at Amazon $135 at Zappos

You can’t go wrong with this timeless penny loafer from Cole Haan. The classic slim silhouette, the subtle stitching details, and the sturdy stacked heel goes with any outfit, while the perforated footbed helps with the shoe’s breathability. Pair them with jeans, a T-shirt, and blazer, and you’ll be wearing one of the classic Parisian uniforms.

Best Heels

Maje Square-toe Leather Pumps

View on Maje.com

These slingback heels evoke classic French style with a practical block heel. Featuring an adjustable ankle strap and soft leather, these are the type of heels you need for getting around Parisian cobblestones while looking chic.

Best Sandals for Women

Sézane Judith Low Sandals

View on Sezane.com

A well-made pair of flat sandals can stand in for sneakers or even heels, taking you from day to night. Parisian fashion star Sézalory says she’s been wearing her brand’s Judith sandals on repeat, adding “and I’ll keep wearing them year after year.” They have leather interior and exterior and rubber sole, as well as an ankle strap to keep them in place while you’re getting your steps in.

Best Sneakers for Men

Thursday Boots Low Top Sneaker

View on Thursdayboots.com

Travel + Leisure editors voted these the most versatile sneakers for men. They got high marks for combining the comfort of a sneaker with the durability of a boot. They are also surprisingly breathable, considering the thick lining, and pack well in checked and carry-on bags. Thanks to their leather fabrication and polished design, these sneakers are also formal enough to wear to most restaurants in Paris.

Best Loafers for Men

Bruno Magli Raging Leather Slip-on

$395 at Amazon $277 at Nordstrom $395 at Zappos

This minimalist loafer can work as a standard dress shoe, yet it also comes with more comfortable details. It is fully lined in soft leather and has a double-gore construction (the small elastic insets on both sides of the shoe) to make them easy to put on. All together, it makes for a loafer that you can wear for a full day of walking, sightseeing, and exploring. Just note that there is a more narrow toe box, so if your toes need more wiggle room, you might want to explore these other options.

Bags & Accessories 

The right accessories can elevate your outfit while providing convenience and functionality during your travels. Think: a versatile crossbody purse.

Don't forget to pack a high-quality silk scarf, which can be a stylish addition to any outfit and a practical way to stay warm. Finally, no packing checklist is complete without key travel accessories, like adapters and luggage tags.

Best Sunglasses for Women

Indy Nolita Polarized Sunglasses

View on Indysunglasses.com $79 at Freepeople.com

Cat-eye sunglasses are always in, and this sleek pair makes our list of best sunglasses for women. They have a softer oval shape that gives them a more modern edge perfect for the streets of Paris. The dark gray and brown lenses boast polarization and 100 percent UV protection.

Best Sunglasses for Men

Oliver Peoples Finley Esq. Sunglasses

View on Amazon $398 at Oliverpeoples.com View on Sunglasshut.com

I’ve been noticing men and women in Paris wearing sunglasses with clear frames for years now and the trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down. This pair from Oliver Peoples Finley Esq also makes our list of top sunglasses for men, thanks to their sturdiness, provided by metal rods that reinforce the arms.

Best Crossbody Bag

Quince Italian Leather Convertible Foldover Clutch

View on Quince.com

Travel + Leisure editors love this affordable leather bag, which can be carried as a clutch in formal settings or as an everyday crossbody. Multiple zippered compartments simplify organization on the go. The unstructured body also means you can easily throw it in a larger suitcase.

Best Unisex Day Bag

Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag

$52 at Amazon $52 $37 at Shopbop.com $42 at Urban Outfitters

Baggu’s Medium Nylon Crescent Bag made the top spot for best crossbody bags thanks to its versatility. The wide strap helps distribute the bag’s weight on your shoulder — plus the strap is adjustable. It’s also ultra-spacious, machine washable, and easy to pack into larger luggage.

Best Silk Scarf

Vince Graduated Stripe Silk Scarf

$195 at Nordstrom View on Vince.com

A silk scarf will be the accessory that adds a note of luxury to every outfit you pack. This black and white one from Vince comes with graduated stripes and is made of fine silk.

Best Travel Umbrella

Weatherman Travel Umbrella

$69 at Amazon $69 at Dicks Sporting Goods View on Weathermanumbrella.com

The performance and sturdiness of this umbrella landed it a spot on our list of best travel umbrellas. Weighing under a pound and just shy of a foot long when unopened, it’s the perfect size to throw into a bag or backpack. In Paris, a rainstorm can happen in all seasons with little warning. You’ll be happy to have it.

Best Luggage Tag

Away The Luggage Tag

$25 at Away Travel

Compared to other luggage tags we tested, Away’s pebbled leather luggage tag offers a stylish and discreet way to add your information to a suitcase. The only way to access the information card is by unbuckling the tag. This means that not just anyone can access personal details.

Best Adapter

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

$26 $23 at Amazon View on Epickatech.com

Compact and versatile, the Epicka travel adapter is your essential companion for Paris and beyond. With four USB-A ports, 1 USB-C port, and 1 AC socket, it charges up to six devices simultaneously, including iPhones, Androids, laptops, cameras, tablets, and power banks. Designed for use in over 150 countries, it saves you from buying multiple adapters, making it a smart investment for frequent travelers. Safety features like a built-in double 8A fuse and child-safe shutters ensure peace of mind.

Best Water Bottle

Thermoflask Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

$30 at Target View on Mythermoflask.com

This stainless steel bottle tops our list for best travel water bottles. It’s easy to carry, keeps water cold for hours, and has a reliable, leak-proof lid that was still in pristine condition after being dropped on the floor three times.

Paris has decent tap water and many public water fountains where you can fill up your water bottle on the go. If you’re having trouble finding a fountain, try popping into one of the city’s many playgrounds, as you’ll often find one there.

Best Hat

Uniqlo UV Protection Cap

View on Uniqlo.com

Want to protect your face from the sun while looking more stylish than sporty? Try this solid-colored cap from Uniqlo with stretch fabric. That being said, a classic Yankees or other MLB cap won’t stand out too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I NOT pack for Paris?

Leave your athleisure wear at home, as Parisians typically reserve athletic clothes for the gym or sports activities. Overly flashy or coordinated outfits are also unnecessary (sorry, Emily in Paris). Instead, aim for versatile, mix-and-match pieces that convey an effortless style. Stiletto high heels can be impractical on Paris' uneven sidewalks and cobblestone streets, so it's best to opt for comfortable shoes with good support. Additionally, avoid packing bulky items that take up too much space in your suitcase, as hotel rooms in Paris can be small and you'll likely want extra room for any shopping you do while there.

What should I wear to avoid looking like a tourist in Paris?

To blend in with the locals, focus on clothes that emphasize comfort and quality and make you look and feel like your best self. Neutral colors like black, white, navy, and beige are versatile and chic. Pack well-fitting jeans, tailored pants, and high-quality tops. Comfortable yet stylish shoes, such as leather sneakers, loafers, or ballet flats, are the only shoes you should need, with the option to bring a block heel or sandal. Layering is key, so include a blazer, a light sweater, and a jacket or statement coat. Elevate your outfits with accessories including a silk scarf, sunglasses, and a chic crossbody bag for a quintessentially Parisian look.

Should I bring a water bottle to Paris?

Yes, bringing a water bottle to Paris is a good idea. Paris has decent tap water and many public water fountains where you can refill your bottle for free. Many are located in public parks around playgrounds. Additionally, carrying a reusable water bottle is eco-friendly and convenient.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Annie Gabillet lived in Paris with her French husband and daughters for two years. She now travels back to the French capital every summer for extended time with friends and family there. For this story, she called on her experience living in and visiting Paris, and also interviewed Jean-Marie Burlet, Guest Relations Manager at Le Bristol, rated one of Travel + Leisure’s top hotels in Paris, and Morgane Sézalory, founder of French fashion brand Sézane.

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