What I Pack for A Day Out in Paris
Photo Katie Donnelly wearing the Leith Dress from Nordstrom
If you have been following the blog for a while, you are familiar with The Paris Diaries. I share my daily life in Paris through an online diary. Everywhere from where I stayed, ate, and explored through photos. I am a full time photographer that started this blog on a whim after feeling homesick for Paris. I had no idea what I was getting myself almost three years ago, but I am so glad I took a chance on this adventure.
My days in Paris can be pretty full in between meetings, gathering blog content, and shooting photographs for The Print Shop. I try to schedule my meetings throughout the day and plan around them so I can see more of the city. There are times where I will choose a new coffee spot just because I haven’t explored a neighborhood in a long time and I want to see what has changed.
image by Katie Donnelly Photogrpahy
I carry my Cuyana bag with me pretty much everywhere I go. It has a good amount of Passport stamps from Cuba, Italy, and Portugal to name a few. I think it is the best travel bag. I have owned mine for almost three years and it is still going strong. I recently purchased the Cuyana insert for my tote and it was a game changer. Instead of being a bottomless pit of black, I now have dividers and spots for every little thing. There is even a spot to hang my keys so I never have to worry about them falling out.
As I am about to head back on another adventure, I thought I would share what I pack in my bag for a day out. This my help you plan ahead or maybe inspire you to pick up my favorite tote for your next adventure.
I trade my larger wallet for a smaller wallet. This is one of my safety tips. I keep one credit card, euros and change in my smaller wallet and leave everything else back at the hotel or apartment. If for some reason my wallet is lost or stollen, I don’t loose everything.
I always have at least one notebook in my bag at all times. I still write everything down on paper and then follow up on the computer. My thoughts are better when it comes to pen and paper. I have a notebook for every project. I also keep a few black pens in my bag. I pick them up at the hotels or restaurants when I am in Paris for good memories for when I am home.
I am not embarrassed to say there is usually a book in my bag on most given days. It all depends if I know there will be a break at a café. Books can get heavy so I have to plan accordingly.
I have at least one lipstick, lip gloss and lip balm in my bag. The Caudalie lip balm is in every one of my bags and coats. I can’t leave home without it. It is $12 in the US and about $3-4 in Paris so I always stock up when I am back.
I have been shooting with the same Canon 70D for almost 5 years now. I think I could operate it in my sleep. I want to upgrade but I don’t think I would find anything as light as this. I carry a few lenses with me and my back aches by the end of the day. I recently purchased a Fujix100 that I love carrying at night and on the weekends. It packs quite the punch but it so light. I am still getting used to it when it comes to shooting but I am happy that I purchased it.
Don’t forget the comfortable walking shoes when out and about in Paris. Heels are pretty but they get stuck in the uneven streets and cobblestones. I swear by my blondos which are also waterproof.
For those of you asking, I am wearing the Simone Jumper in Size S from Sézane.
This post does include affiliate links which helps contribute to my coffee and croissant research. Merc!
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Bonjour, I’m Rebecca!
I’m a photographer, blogger, croissant-lover, and world traveler. I hope that Everyday Parisian inspires you by bringing a bit of France into your daily life and helps you plan the best trip to Paris with personalized recommendations for places to stay, explore, and eat.
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I also recommend the Valet de Pique boutique located at 7 rue de Sèvres, 75006 Paris. It’s an excellent place to purchase my handbag which is made in France, specifically in Biarritz. The boutique offers high-quality French craftsmanship and unique designs that showcase the traditional leatherworking techniques of the Biarritz region. Their collection features elegant, handcrafted items that combine classic French style with contemporary elements.
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I love the leather case on your Fuji! Where did you find it? I’d like on for my Fuji 📸
I enjoy all of your photos and information- thanks.
Great photos. You look great. I have been looking at that bag when you post about it. I have a Pacsafe purse that fits my point & shoot , large phone which is my main camera, my Paris map book, wallet with just a bit of cash, lips stuff, a few Tylenol or Ibuprofen, a couple of zip,lock bags for my doggie bag if I cannot finish my meal. I do carry a small light backpack or reusable grocery bag for my water bottle, sweater if I take it off, and my groceries if I am shopping or my picnic.
Love the wallet tips xx
I just purchased a black Cuyana zipper tote for my first trip to Paris. I leave in four weeks! It looks like the perfect size for what’s needed on the plane and also those much-anticipated days strolling around the city.
I have had the Cuyana Zipper Tote for about two years and I love it!! The fact that it zips is my fav feature because it feels more secure when throwing under a plane seat or jumping in a cab. Lovely photos, great post!
Hi Kimber,
Yes, the zipper makes all the difference. I love the madewell tote but it just doesn’t work for travel and safety. Have you tried the insert? I love it!
Rebecca
Amazing posts that make me daydream about Paris……and shopping 🛍❤️
Thank you, Rose!! I can’t wait to take you with me this Spring. xo
Great tips! You look absolutely fabulous by the way!!
Thank you so much! I am hiding that it is absolutely freezing! I am so happy to hear you enjoyed the tips.
xo
is the sweaeter sezane? love this post, lots of helpful tips!
Hi Kelly!
Good eye! Yes, this is a sezane sweater. I love their stuff! I am so happy this post helped.
xo