In today’s video, I share five items that I always recommend bringing when you travel to France.
1. NSAID’s (like Aleve, Ibuprofen, and high-dose aspirin) and OTC (over-the-counter) medications you use often.
NSAID’s are available by prescription-only in France. So, if you are used to this type of drug, be sure to bring it with you. Inevitably, all the walking, stair climbing, and cobblestone navigating will leave you a bit sore.
The same goes for OTC’s. Bring those with you if you use a particular medication frequently, such as antacids, anti-diarrheal, anti-histamines, etc.
2. Purchase your wall adapters and converters for your electronics in advance. Make sure that you choose a converter for France and not the EU, which are different plug-types. Also, do NOT bring your hair appliances with you. Your typical wall adapters are not meant for that type of electrical load. They can overheat and, in the case of my friend who brought her beloved flat-iron against my recommendation, burnt a whole section of her hair!
3. Washcloths are bathroom items that I love to have but are hard to find here in France. I especially love the microfiber face cloths as they dry quickly and are easy to clean. We are all used to carrying around antibacterial wipes these days, but I also suggest tissue packs. They are helpful when you visit a toilet, and the paper is missing.
4. Unfortunately, pickpockets over the last year have become a bit bolder, and I have had MULTIPLE friends who had their phones ripped right out of their hands while talking! Purchase a lanyard to protect your electronics. I wear mine like a cross-body bag and often under my coat for added protection.
5. For extended stays, I bring a chef’s knife (rentals always have the MOST horribly dull knives!), basic spices, and oils.
If you liked this list, then you will LOVE my France Travel Planner! Access my 50-page planner now – link in my bio! ☝️☝️
Bisous and big hugs 🤗 from France,
Shannon