10 Unexpected Travel Essentials for France (That Will Make Your Trip Smoother and Smarter)
Published May 19, 2025
Before you pack your bags for France, here's something to keep in mind: some of the smartest travel items you’ll want are best bought before you leave, while others, like cult-favorite pharmacy finds, are easier to pick up once you arrive. We’ve included where to find each item so you can plan ahead and pack with confidence.
Whether it’s your first time in France or your fifth, packing the right items can make your trip infinitely easier. And a lot more fun! Beyond the usual passport, charger, and walking shoes, here are 10 clever and culturally tuned items we always recommend to travelers heading to France.
1. Compact French Pharmacy Kit
France is famous for its pharmacies — but why wait until you need one? Some of these must-haves, like Avène Thermal Spring Water Spray are available online, while others, like Biafine, are available here but at 8x the price you’ll get in France. Pack a starter kit or plan a stop at a French pharmacie on Day 1.
Jean-Paul: "These are essentials in every French home. And once you try Biafine, you’ll never go back to aloe vera."
Jessica: I’m a travel accessory junkie! I love these toiletry kits to keep everything organized: This one opens up flat and comes in tons of colors and this is my absolute favorite hanging one. Colors are more limited but they’re all pretty!
2. Paper Michelin Map of France
Yes, Google Maps exists. But a real Michelin road map gives you a bigger picture, especially in rural regions where service drops. It's also fantastic for discovering scenic detours you’d otherwise miss.
Jessica: "When my phone died in the Loire Valley, that paper map saved us!"
3. Packable Market Tote
Markets in France are legendary, and a reusable market tote means you can grab cheese, fresh berries, or a bottle of chilled rosé without stress.
Jessica: "I always carry one of each of these with me. I love these mesh ones that comes in a pack with several colors. And these navy and white striped bags are great because there aren’t any holes in case you’re buying small items, they fold up nice and small and they’re machine washable!"
4. Magnetic Phone Mount for Rental Cars
French law prohibits holding a phone while driving, and fines can be steep. A vent-mounted magnetic phone holder makes it legal and safe to use GPS in your rental car. It’s tiny, cheap, and extremely useful. Don’t plan to just rest your phone in the cup holder or another spot in the car; French cars aren’t made with a logical place your phone will actually fit to see it.
Jean-Paul: This is the one that I travel with and it’s served me well!
5. Vintage-Style Travel Journal with Pockets
From museum stubs to café loyalty cards, France is full of small beautiful moments. Capture them in a travel journal with dedicated spaces for keepsakes. Bonus: it’ll become a future treasure.
Jessica: "I always buy this as a gift for my friends that travel overseas."
6. Pocket-Sized Stain Remover Pen
Wine, coffee, Dijon mustard...France is delicious and a little messy! A stain remover stick or pen helps keep your travel wardrobe looking fresh. Especially with limited laundry access.
7. Packable French-Inspired Scarf
In France, scarves are a cultural staple. A lightweight, packable scarf adds style, handles temperature changes, and helps you blend in. Works for all genders, too.
Jean-Paul: "A scarf shows you care about your appearance. It’s subtle but very French."
Jessica: Look for summer scarves that are 100% cotton. You want them to be cute and breathable!
8. French Pocket Phrase Book and Mini-Dictionary
Even if you rely on apps, having a physical French phrase book and mini dictionary is invaluable. The phonetic spellings are really useful and the must-know phrases for dining, shopping, and emergencies.
Jessica: "It’s reassuring to have a quick-reference guide when you’re face-to-face with someone who doesn’t speak English. A phrase book helps break the ice and shows you’re making an effort."
9. Multi-Use French Pharmacy Skin Balm
You can buy French staples Homeoplasmine and Nuxe Rêve de Miel here in the US, giving you plenty of time to become addicted before your trip. They double as lip balm, hand cream, cuticle care, and more. Then be sure to stock up once you arrive. They’re available at nearly every pharmacy at 1/5 of the price as the US!
10. Luggage Scale
Don't wait to buy this one. It’s a must-have before your flight. With all of the incredible purchases you’ll make on your trip, you don’t want to have to leave any behind!
European airlines are strict with luggage limits. A digital luggage scale saves last-minute repacking panic, or worse, overweight fees at the gate.
Jean-Paul: "Better to check weight at your hotel than argue at the check-in counter. It’s a quick win for peace of mind."
Final Thought
Packing smart isn’t about bringing more. It’s about bringing what matters. These items add convenience, comfort, and a little local flair to your French adventure.
Jessica: "France rewards thoughtfulness. That applies to how you dress, how you eat, and yes — even how you pack."
Bon voyage!
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