The Ultimate Paris Packing List For When It’s Cold

So you’ve got a ticket to Paris! The deal was hot but the weather will be cold! You’re probably wondering what to include in your Paris Packing List in order to enjoy Paris despite the chilly temperatures.

I’ve got you because I was in the same situation just this year.

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For expert traveling tips, check out Tips From Above-Average Travelers: 28 MUST-HAVE Travel Items

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To give you some background:
I don’t ever travel to cold places during the winter. Last year, hubby and I went to Aruba in the winter. The year prior, I was in Mexico. I just figure that it makes absolutely NO sense to go from freezing in Iowa to freezing in another country’s cold.

In case you haven’t caught on, I HATE THE COLD!

I’m West Africa-born and California-raised- my DNA just isn’t wired for temperatures under 70. I saw someone write that “there is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.” Lies, I say! There is definitely bad weather. Appropriate clothing just helps you cope with it.

Anyways, all of this is to tell you that I broke my rule about winter traveling this year. I found a deal to Paris that was just way too good to pass up.

(Get the FULL details on how I achieved a one week trip to Paris, including airfare, lodging, food, activities & more, for less than $1000 HERE)

The forecast predicted snow, wind and rain and I was really worried about how I would stay warm enough to enjoy Paris. 

To prepare for this trip, I read a lot of different posts about winter travel in Europe (thanks internet!). In addition, it was my second winter living in the Midwest so I’d accumulated a good collection of winter gear (and winter knowledge).

That being said, I came up with the following Paris packing lists to organize exactly what I’d wear to the airport and pack in my handbag and suitcase. (Oh! Did I mention I only took a carry on?  Ha!)

Read on:

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Airport Attire:

It is so important to layer your airport outfit. You may encounter many different climates while wearing this one getup so you want it to be flexible. The airport, the airplane, your destination- they might all feel different. 

1. Prescription Glasses – because seeing is super important
2. Light Top – a light top gives you the opportunity to shed your layers if you’re feeling too hot
3. Sweater – a layering piece that helps you adjust your outfit to your comfort level
4. Coat – to withstand the roughest and coldest temperatures
5. Fleece Leggings – I chose fleece for warmth and chose leggings for comfort during the long ride
6. Socks & Comfortable Sneakers

Paris Packing List for A Handbag:

1. Passport – check to make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the last day of your trip. Some countries won’t let you enter otherwise!
2. Phone (+ charger)
3. Wallet – don’t forget credit cards, cash, flight and health information
4. Earphones – I download movies and shows onto my phone for free using Amazon Prime before leaving and then watch them in transit. If you don’t know about this, you are welcome! It’s a life saver.
5. Pro Lens Kit – I don’t have a fancy camera so I bought this to help my phone take nicer pics! [Loved it! Check out my review HERE]
6. Sunglasses
7. Water bottle – leave it empty before boarding of course. But this will save you from buying water
8. Snacks – because hunger!
9. Gloves
10. Scarf – so versatile- you can use it for warmth, a blanket or scrunch it up for neck support
11. Change of clothes and undies – if you ever lose your bag or end up in an unfortunate situation, you will be SO thankful you packed this
12. Travel Umbrella
13. Toiletry Bag – all the essentials you need for refreshment (toothbrush and paste, mouthwash, body & lip moisturizers, etc)

Paris Packing List for A Carry On Bag:

1. Wind & Water Resistant Long Coat
2. Sweaters
3. Light Tops & Blouses – for layering (and style) under my sweaters and coats
4. Dress & Thick Stockings – for dressier outings
5. Jeans & Thick Pants – I recommend packing about 3 and making each one a different color or style (e.g. denim, black & colored/printed)
6. Underwear Sets
7. Pajamas
8. Fleece Leggings – if you wear these under your pants, you won’t feel a THING! Iowa has taught me
9. Wool Socks
10. Tall Boots – waterproof! Avoid suede and materials that can soak up water
11. Ankle Boots – same as above
12. Shower Sandals
13. Scarves – Mix it up! This will be the one accessory that really makes your outfit look different when you’re all bundled up
14. Hats/Beanies – I will be taking a beret and yes I know I will look like a nerd. Don’t try to stop me!
15. Toiletry Bag – for all the extra things like hair bonnets, shower caps, q-tips, etc
16. Packing Cubes – this will be my first time using them but I hear they perform magic in terms of compressing your items and fitting a lot into a little space

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That’s it!

What do you guys think? Do you share the same rule about winter traveling?

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UPDATE (2/23/19): Now that I’m back, read about THE 6 THINGS I WISH I WOULD HAVE PACKED AND WHAT I WISH I DIDN’T.

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