France in winter is dreamy — Parisian cafés glowing under fairy lights, snow-capped Alpine villages, and stylish locals wrapped in elegant wool coats.
But from northern drizzle to mountain snow, the weather can vary widely. This all-in-one France winter packing list blends warmth, comfort, and effortless French style — so you’ll be ready for metro strolls, wine tastings, and everything in between.
🌡️ Weather Overview
- Paris & North: 35–50°F (2–10°C), often damp and cloudy
- South of France: 40–55°F (5–13°C), sunny and cool
- French Alps: 15–35°F (-9–2°C), snowy and cold
👗 What People Wear in France in Winter
In Paris and cities across France, locals dress polished, not puffy. Winter style is all about tailored wool coats, chic ankle boots, scarves, and dark neutrals. Even in the mountains, après-ski outfits are sleek. Avoid loud athletic gear for city days. Think layers, luxe textures, and timeless elegance — even your casuals should feel curated.
What to Pack for France in Winter
Packing smart will help you make the most of your trip. Here’s everything you need to bring for a comfortable and stylish adventure.
Carry-On Suitcase / Travel Bag Duffle / Portable Steamer / Packing cubes / Luggage scale / Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones / Speaker / Portable Charger / Universal Travel adapter / Compact Hair Dryer / Eye Mask / Waterproof Toiletry Bag Hanging / Zipper Pouch / Water BOTTLE / Liquid I.V. Hydration Vegan
🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools
If you want more options to have everything organized and well packed, take a look at these suggestions.
1. Rolling Backpack / 2. Luggage (large) / 3. Luggage (small) / 4. Toiletry Bag / 5. Beach Bag / 6. Backpack / 7. Packing Cubes
- 🧳 Carry-on suitcase (ideal for train travel)
- 🧳 Checked luggage (if you’re skiing or staying long-term)
- 👜 Day bag or crossbody for city exploring
- 🎒 Backpack for day trips or countryside tours
- 🧺 Packing cubes (maximize suitcase space)
- 👞 Shoe bags (especially for boots)
- 🧼 Waterproof toiletry bag
- 📁 Travel wallet for passport + euros
- 🛍️ Foldable tote for farmers’ markets or souvenirs
- 🧺 Laundry bag or kit
- ⚖️ Luggage scale (especially for budget airlines)
- 🛏️ Quick-dry towel (hostels or ski spas)
- 😴 Neck pillow + sleep mask for long flights/trains
👗 Clothes for Winter in France
- 🧥 Wool coat or trench (classic, warm, Parisian)
- 🧥 Packable down jacket (great for day trips)
- 🧤 Leather gloves or touchscreen-friendly mittens
- 🧣 Cashmere or knit scarf (dark neutrals win)
- 🧢 Stylish beret, beanie, or felt hat
- 👚 Long-sleeve tops or turtlenecks (3–4)
- 🧥 Sweaters (2–3, think knits or wool blends)
- 👖 Slim jeans or tailored pants (2–3)
- 👗 Wool midi dress or knit skirt + tights (optional)
- 🥿 Ankle boots (weatherproof if possible)
- 👟 Neutral sneakers (for long days walking)
- 🧦 Wool or thermal socks
- 🧘 PJs + cozy loungewear
- 👙 Swimsuit (for spas, hotel pools, or Alps chalets)
💆 Skincare
- 🧴 Rich day & night moisturizers (dry air = dry skin)
- 💋 Lip balm with SPF or hydrating formula
- 🧴 Facial SPF (yes, even in cloudy Paris)
- 🧼 Gentle, non-drying cleanser
- 💧 Hydrating toner or mist (great for flights)
- 🧴 Hand cream (a must for cold walks)
- 🧴 Micellar water (a French pharmacy fave!)
💇 Haircare
- 🪮 Hairbrush or comb + clips or ties
- 🧴 Shampoo + conditioner (or use French pharmacy minis)
- 🧴 Leave-in cream or oil (prevents frizz & dryness)
- 🧼 Dry shampoo (perfect for busy days)
- 💁 Mini flat iron or styling wand (for city chic)
📱 Tech & Electronics
- 📱 Phone + charger
- 🔌 European plug adapter (Type C/E for France)
- 🔋 Power bank (a must for full sightseeing days)
- 📷 Camera or phone with extra storage
- 🎧 Earbuds or headphones for trains/planes
- 📲 Offline Google Maps + French phrase app
🧾 Documents & Essentials
- 🛂 Passport + visa (if required)
- 📁 Travel wallet with ID, cards, euros
- 💳 Credit + debit cards + small bills
- 📄 Printed hotel + ticket confirmations
- 📓 Notebook or travel journal
- 📲 Copies of your travel insurance
🩹 First Aid & Health
- 💊 Prescription medications
- 💊 Motion sickness pills (train rides, winding roads)
- 🩹 Blister pads (those cobblestones…)
- 🧻 Pocket tissues (many public toilets = no paper!)
- 🧴 Hand sanitizer
- 💧 Hydration tablets or electrolytes
✈️ Smart Travel Tips for France in Winter
- 🧥 Dress up a little — even your airport outfit
- 🧣 Bring a scarf — it’s both style & practicality
- 👢 Waterproof your boots before flying
- 📲 Use apps like Bonjour RATP (Paris transport) and Google Translate
- 🥐 Don’t overpack — you’ll want room for French fashion finds
