Packing list for France, travel insurance for France, and taking your belongings

What to take with you to France: spotlighted

Featured items:

• Documents: passport or ID card, copy. Driving license, when you are going to drive around and your European health insurance card.
• Money: euros, but you can certainly withdraw cash everywhere in the cities.
• Care: sunscreen with a high factor for the summer and skiing. It can't hurt on sunny days in the other seasons either. Lip balm.
• Outdoor and practical items: cap or hat and sunglasses in the summer. Raincoat and warm winter accessories for the winter. Backpack rain cover.
• Clothing: varied clothing for all weather conditions. Layers are handy, because you can take all conditions with you. Summer usually requires airy clothing, winter very warm clothing. Swimwear for your beach holiday.
• Shoes: nice walking shoes/sneakers for in the city and sandals for the summer. Are you going into the mountains or to Corsica? Then take sturdy walking shoes with you.
• Medicines and travel kit: a small first aid kit with plasters.
• Technology and equipment: world plug with type E.

What are some other options for packing as well?

• Reusable water bottle with filter, because tap water is technically drinkable, but often tastes strange.
• Nice umbrella and a picnic basket to blend in with the locals.
• Quick-drying travel towel.
• A personal fan for summers in the south.

Are there mosquitoes in France?

• Yes, there are mosquitoes (even the tiger mosquitoes), but the French moustiques are generally not dangerous!
• The mosquitoes are at most annoying in the summer, diseases sometimes occur in the south of France these days.

Are there sandflies in France?

• Sand flies (phlébotomes) are found in France and they can transmit diseases.
• Diseases are mainly found in the Mediterranean region. Sand flies are also mainly found in rural and wooded areas.
• Due to climate change, sand flies are advancing north.

Can you buy DEET, or other mosquito repellents, in France?

• You can easily buy mosquito repellents in France, also with DEET.
• Find a pharmacy, outdoor store or large supermarket.
• Several brands are available like Puressentiel, Cinq sur cinq, Insect Ecran, Autan, and Moustifluid (sprays, creams, and wipes, often formulated with DEET or IR3535, or using natural active ingredients).

Can you buy a joint or weed in France, or take it with you to France?

• No. Cannabis is illegal in France. Even for tourists. Even when you act cool, even when you are in Paris.
• Possession of cannabis can lead to a fine, police interrogation or worse. Probably not the French experience you are looking for.
• CBD products are available, but with low THC levels. Taking it with you is not a good idea.