When travelling anywhere during the winter season, packing can feel like a real struggle. When planning a trip to the French Riviera during winter it can feel like an even bigger struggle, since we tend to think of summer sunshine, tropical beaches, and high-end fashion when we think about this dreamy destination. What to pack for a winter trip to the French Riviera is a concern for many wandering souls.
But not to worry, I have put together this list of the most important items to pack for your unforgettable trip to the Côte d’Azur.
1. Sunglasses
It might be cold but that doesn’t mean that the sun won’t be out. During the winter months, the French Riviera is mostly bright and sunny during the days and chilly at night. Remember your best pair of sunnies when you pack for a winter trip to the French Riviera.
2. Backpack
You will most likely be doing a few day trips and a backpack is always a good idea when galavanting around the town. A tote bag or satchel is great for carrying all the essentials and you can also add a few picnic items in there.
3. Sunscreen
Yes, sunscreen is just as important in winter as it is in summer. The sun’s harmful rays are just as strong and damaging despite the drop in temperature. The need to protect your skin against UV damage is a year-round commitment so don’t forget to forget your factor 30 sunscreen when you pack for a winter trip to the French Riviera.
4. Your favourite coat
Despite needing sunscreen and sunglasses it is still going to be cold. Bring along your favourite coat, the one that you love and feel confident in, since you will probably be wearing it 90% of the time. What’s underneath your coat won’t really matter so as long as you have your favourite coat you will be good to go.
5. Warm and stylish boots
Boots are essential when travelling during the winter season. There are so many styles to choose from and you can also wear them during the day or night. Make sure they are a warm and comfortable pair but also stylish of course. Since you will be strutting your stuff on the French Riviera, your fashion sense needs to be on point.
6. Quick drying travel towel
There is nothing worse than having to use a wet towel or packing a damp towel in your suitcase, which is sure to make everything smell! Quick drying towels are essential when travelling but especially during winter when you want to be warm and cosy. The best part is, that these towels are much smaller than normal towels and thus take up less space in your bag.
7. Scarf
Scarves are the secret to staying warm and stylish. Scarves are a great accessory to change up any outfit and to keep cosy. There is nothing quite so brutal as a freezing cold neck, so if you choose one item very carefully, make it your scarf.
8. Bring your best French
The French are notorious for expecting tourists to speak the language, or at least try to, when visiting their beautiful country. If your French skills are questionable, it might be a good idea to pack a phrasebook. If you’re not up for it, you can speak in English, as long as you are polite and use some basic French vocab like; bonjour, au revoir, and merci.
Hey Travel Babes. I’m Hayley a.k.a Ms Blissness – Adventurous dreamer and free spirit. I’m on a quest around the world with my husband, Peter. Join us on our journey for some travel inspiration and a lot of Love and Light xx. More about me…
