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What to Pack for Paris in the Fall

what to pack for Paris in the autumn

Paris in the autumn is one of the best times to visit. The city of light is full of energy. You will notice the changing colors on the trees and ivy filling the city pop against the neutral greys and blues of the building’s architecture. Paris weather starts warm at the beginning of fall and slowly transitions with the season to crisp mornings and evenings. This post will help you better understand what to pack for Paris in the fall, from the best layers, sweaters, boots, and coats to pack. You will be ready to explore the city of lights in the autumn. 

What to Pack for Paris in the Fall

Paris Autumn Weather: What to Expect 

Paris in the fall

In early autumn, expect warmer days and lots of sunshine. The average September temperature will typically be in the low 70s, and this can continue into early October. There will be plenty of sunny days in Paris, so don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses. Discover this post for what to pack for Paris in September.

When packing for Paris, I recommend waterproof boots, an umbrella, and a trench or stylish coat for the rain. Even when rain isn’t in the forecast, it is good to plan for it. Paris can throw an unexpected shower even on the sunniest days. October weather starts warm, and you may need a sweater or light jacket. The weather changes progressively over the month and cools off. Evening temperatures can drop into the 50s toward the end of October, so a light scarf is recommended. You will want to ensure you are comfortable enough for dinners and sightseeing in the evening. The temperature drops in November and early December, so it is essential to pack a wool coat for the cold weather. Of course, there are many shops around Paris where you can pick up anything you have forgotten. I love Sézane, Sandro, and Maje for coats. 

There will be plenty of sunny days in Paris, so don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses.

Paris in the autumn packing list everyday Parisian

P.S. For ideas on what to do in Paris in the Autumn, you can check out this post! 

What to pack for Paris in the Fall 2024

What to Pack for Paris in the Autumn

What to Wear in Paris in the Fall trench coat Sézane

 

What to Pack for Paris in the Fall

What to Wear in Paris autumn rain

What to Wear in Paris in the Rain

Preparing for rainy days is a good idea when planning a trip to Paris. Activities on a rainy day in Paris include a cooking class with La Cuisine Paris, museums, embracing the rainy weather, and sitting at a Parisian café terrace. Check out this blog post for more rainy-day ideas in Paris. 

what to pack for paris in the rain

I recommend packing a travel umbrella in your day bag for unexpected rain storms. Chelsea waterproof boots are a perfect option as the style is currently on trend in Paris.  Blondo boots also make high boots that go to the knee, which I love. They are trendy, and the flat boot is a good option for walking all over the city.

Fall boots in Paris
what to pack for Paris in the fall

What to Wear in Paris

 

Packing Tips for What to Wear in Paris

what to wear in Paris in the fall

Layers are essential when preparing for fall in Paris: scarves, t-shirts or camisoles under your sweater, and a jacket. You can take off or add layers throughout the day depending on the change in temperature or weather.

what to pack for Paris in the fall
Paris outfits for the fall

Wide-legged and straight jeans are on trend right now.  Paris is a stylish city, and dressing up is recommended.

Parisian Neutral Color Palate: What to Pack for Paris in the Fall

Paris fall packing list
what to pack for paris in the autumn

Parisian women have a great sense of style and work around neutral colors. You can mix in a pop of color, but when packing for Paris in the autumn, basics work best with a few essential accessories. The Parisian-style capsule wardrobe is easy to accomplish with jeans, a little black dress, ballet flats, a white blouse, and cozy sweaters. These versatile pieces make it easy to mix and match to create different outfits. Some of my favorite color trends for fall are a pop of red or burgundy and olive green. You can add these in with jewelry, belts, or shoes. 

The Best Carry On Suitcase

AWAY suitcase

I highly recommend packing in a carry-on when packing for Paris or any European trip right now. This way, you don’t have to worry about not having your clothes (luggage getting lost) when you touchdown in Paris and can hit the ground running. The larger Away bag is a great carry-on bag.  I always shower, change into clean clothes, and freshen up when I land. Packing cubes can make a huge difference when packing in a carry-on suitcase. I love these from Away, which I have been using for years. You can easily pack what to wear in Paris for a week’s trip this way.

For my personal item on the flight, I typically carry my AWAY everywhere bag. It is large enough to hold my computer, chargers, camera, and everything I need to take my business to Paris. You can easily pack a change of clothes and toiletries in this bag. There are so many pockets to help you stay organized. One of the perks of this bag is that it slides right on top of my rolling suitcase, making it easy to navigate throughout the airport. If you are packing lighter and don’t need as much, I love the Cuyana top zip tote

Enjoy this printable Paris packing list that will help you plan what you need for your upcoming trip to Paris in the fall.

Coats to Wear in Paris : What to Pack for Paris in the Fall

A light or leather jacket will be great during the earlier months. If you check the weather forecast and there is rain, you might want to pack a stylish rain jacket. I say stylish because I would say leave your rain slicker at home. J.Crew has a cute one here if you are looking for ideas. I also recommend a trench coat. This is a hot trend in Paris, and it isn’t a coat worn just when it rains outside. You will see many Parisian women walking around in various colors of trench coats. The camel color is the most popular. I have one from Sézane that I always love to wear in Paris. J.Crew has an option for a trench coat here. 

Paris in the rain everyday parisian

Clyde Trench Sézane

A leather jacket is also an excellent option for the earlier months of the fall season. You can pair this with a scarf and black pants and feel Parisian. I bought my leather jacket from Madewell, an investment piece (I got it on sale). Sézane also has a great option that I love. Quince has one that is a fraction of both the Madewell and Sézane jackets.

Sézane Coats for Paris

For colder days and nights of autumn in Paris, you will want a warmer coat and scarf. Sézane, J.Crew, and Other Stories all have great options. On my last trip to Paris in October, I saw many Parisian women wearing navy, longer wool coats, and I purchased one last year that I can’t wait to wear again this fall/winter.

French fall capsule wardrobe navy wool coat

Sweaters to Pack for Paris in the Autumn

everyday parisian gaspard sweater

In early to late September, you should be okay with lighter sweaters. Once the weather turns in October, you will want to pack chunkier sweaters for the colder months. I love the sweaters from Sézane, Tuckernuck, J.Crew, and Quince. The Gaspard sweater is a French girl staple and can be worn in three ways. I have it in multiple colors. I must pack at least one of my coziest sweaters in my closet for a rainy day in a Parisian café for a little extra warmth for an outside terrace.

Chunky knit Sézane Paris
white button up Paris Sézane

what to wear in Paris in the fall
Paris in the fall chunky knit sweater

The Best Shoes for Walking in Paris in the Fall

Mederick wool belted coats Paris

I highly recommend packing comfortable walking shoes and leaving the high heels at home. They can be challenging to navigate in the cobblestone streets of Paris and aren’t worth it. For the fall, sneakers are a great option for walking around Paris. Please make sure they are comfortable. I highly recommend these Madewell sneakers, which I have worn for years. You need to break them in before you leave, or else you risk getting blisters. Once they are broken in, you will love them. Sneakers are perfectly acceptable in Paris right now and are even considered trendy. Sézane makes the jack sneaker, and there is also Véjas, a French brand.

When packing for Paris, I wear my heaviest pair of shoes on the plane. This frees up space in your luggage. Typically, it is a pair of sneakers that I plan to wear in Paris. 

Ballet flats are also comfortable shoes for walking around the city. I own these Margaux demi flats, which I repeatedly wear in Paris. I have been wearing ballet flats for years, and I am happy they are trending right now. Madewell makes the Gretta flat and is under $100. 

Gretta Madewell Flat
Margaux Demi Flat

Blazers to Pack for Paris

Packing for Paris

I love a good blazer over a dress, button-up, or sweater. It elevates a look. When packing for Paris in the fall, a good neutral blazer can be worn multiple times with different outfits.

what to pack for Paris in the Fall

black Blazer for Paris

Makeup and Skincare to Pack for Paris in the Fall

what to pack for Paris in the fall

Fall Parisian makeup

French women are more natural when it comes to makeup. Mascara, eyeliner, a good concealer, and a red lip are all you need to look put together. Good skincare and glowy, healthy skin are easy to achieve with French products from the pharmacy. Avène, Klorane, Bioderma, and Caudalie are some brands you will notice for sale almost everywhere. You can also buy these in the US, but they are less expensive in France.

Accessories to Pack for Paris in the Autumn

When traveling in Paris, I carry a small wallet with my credit card and ID when I am out and about. This one from Cuyana is a good choice.

what to pack for Paris in the Autumn

Additional Items to Pack for Paris in the Fall

paris in the rain everyday parisian

Paris offers a lot to explore in the autumn months. Even a walk in the Parisian parks is an afternoon well spent with the changing colors and golden light. Check out this post for ideas on what to do in Paris in the fall. 

Pack a camera. As a travel photographer, I always pack my camera for Paris. Currently, I am using and loving my Fuiji XT4. Your iPhone camera does a great job. Don’t feel the pressure of having a fancy camera for your trip to Paris. There are a few cute retro photobooths around Paris, and they make great souvenirs. 

what to pack for Paris in the Fall

A journal or pad of paper. I love collecting travel journals and writing notes about my daily agenda or places I discovered in Paris. My creativity flows the most when I am solo and unplugged in Paris. 

Paris notepad everyday parisian

Pack The Paris Guide with you to help you navigate the city and discover hidden gems. Explore the maps of all my favorite restaurants, bakeries, and neighborhoods. 

The Paris Guide

My travel steamer is one of my favorite purchases, and it was inspired by a trip to Paris a few years ago. Our hotel had this steamer in our room, which was a game changer. I was never a fan of ironing, but steaming brings me joy, and I love mine. The one I own is great for home use. Many of my friends have recommended this travel option, and I plan to purchase it for my upcoming trip in September. 

With these additional items, you’ll be prepared to make the most of your trip to Paris.

Travel Accessories to Pack for Paris

Travel adaptors are so necessary. Some hotels will offer backups at the front desk if you have forgotten yours, and you can also pop into Monoprix to purchase one. I leave all my travel chargers and accessories in my tech pack to make sure I don’t forget anything when I travel. A portable charger isn’t a bad idea to pack in your day bag in case you need an extra charge towards the end of the day.

Getting around the city is easy. The Paris metro is available at all points around the city. I love walking the most because you can see so many details of the beautiful city. As a photographer, I am always finding something that catches my eye. One of my favorite times of the day to explore Paris is early in the morning before the city wakes up. The light is magical this time of year.

Travel Insurance for Paris

I hope this post helps prepare you for your next trip to Paris. Travel insurance is always a good idea. I use Faye Travel Insurance. My laptop and camera have health coverage for traveling in Europe. It is an added cost, but it provides peace of mind when traveling outside the US and staying in a hotel room.

*This post includes affiliate links. I make a small commission off items purchased from my links. Merci!

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  1. I am headed to Amsterdam for a biz trip in early November. My female co-workers and I are planning a weekend in Paris. Your blog has been very informative. I am following your suggestions on what to pack and places to visit. I can’t wait to spend time in Paris. Thank you!

  2. Nike set / leisure wear.
    Thanks for responding and asking!
    Airplane travel, for sure. However, when is it acceptable other than travel?

    • Honestly, not much other than airplane travel. Use the opportunity in Paris to dress up a bit. You won’t see much leisure wear aside from Americans in Paris.

  3. Black, sleek, classic, Nike set, neat and matching in colors with Nike footwear. (Model-esq look). Acceptable, yes or no?

  4. Hi Rebecca love you entries, I’m going with my 34 year old daughter to Paris Sept 23. Will i need a trench coat ? I live in south florida usa so I’m not used to wearing coats and sweaters. will sept still be hot? thanks so much, My 60 year old’s wardrobe will need some new pieces!

    • Hi Robyn,

      The weather can vary so keep an eye on it. A trench coat is a great piece to own and pack for Paris. You will want some sort of layering piece. It will be on the warmer side but not as hot as South Florida. This is a great opportunity to update your wardrobe with a few French inspired pieces. Have a great trip! xo

  5. I’m surprised it’s never mentioned to pack a cashmere sweater,if your into French wardrobe staples. Weight adds nothing to your luggage…I compress a few in a bag and steam out while I shower. A black turtleneck and a navy or black crew neck are staples. Simple and elegant,not at all “costume”.
    Uniqlo and Monoprix both have their own brand at reasonable cost.

  6. Dear Rebecca, Your advice is always spot on. I still bring my Blondos, scarf, and layers to keep dry and warm when it turns chilly or rainy. I’m going to be in Paris for a week in October, but also a week in Provence. Do I need to pack for two climates? What do you think? I’d like to pack for carry-on since I’ll be responsible for my suitcase while touring Provence.

  7. Rebecca ,love your blog !! Thank you I love the tips you give and how you even let us know where to get it !!!! Love the photos and I love the photo with you in the jeans and white shirt I just wish you would of had your lovely face .

  8. This is an excellent article. I am heading to Spain and Portugal next April and a good trench coat would be excellent. For the just in case.

  9. I love reading packing posts! This is what started my blog reading years ago, i was already obsessed with Youtube so had watched plenty of packing videos. I started researching what to wear for my month trip to Paris 2012.

  10. Thanks for this Rebecca! My nephew and girlfriend will travel to Paris in October. Am going to definitely share this with them, as I have been doing with your other posts. Keep up the great work, which I love so much! Oh, have a nice trip, can’t wait for photos. Need to plan to go some day as well. 🙂

  11. I love this list! Thank you. Have you ever been to Au Petit Suisse? It’s near Le Jardin du Luxembourg on Rue de Vaugirard. I had what I think was the BEST croissant in Paris there. If you get a chance, please check it out and let me know what you think! Have a wonderful trip!

  12. This is a great fall list! We just got back from Paris last Thursday. Since it was a more transitional time between summer and fall I wore dresses with either a blazer or a cardigan (often just carried it), and always had a scarf on hand. I brought a short trench but only wore it one night. I stuck with little black dresses, black & white dresses, one black jumpsuit and accented with colorful scarves. French women seemed to be wearing a lot of dresses with trenches or pants (not so much jeans) with blazers in the slouchy way they pull off so well. Have a great trip!

    • Hi Trinity,

      Thank you so much! I hope you had a great trip! My friend mentioned that there was a lot of denim and black combo. I packed dresses and a leather jacket. Hopefully it won’t be too chilly. It looks like I am leaving an Indian Summer for Autumn weather.

      xo

  13. Have a great & safe trip Rebecca. St Emilion & Bordeaux were fabulous so I hope that you get there too. I’m off to the UK tomorrow so will post some photos as soon as I am able. best wishes Judith

    • Thank you so much! Oh I would love to see photos. I am scheduled to get to Bordeaux and I can’t wait. Safe travels! I hope you are having a lovely trip.

  14. Thanks for putting this list together Rebecca!
    I’m checking it against what I have packed so far for an upcoming trip, so far so good! I especially like your tip about carrying a small change pouch instead of carrying everything at once!

    I’m lusting over the J.Crew leather jacket, it’s gorgeous, that’s an item I’d love to own 🙂

    • The change pouch is key! I never want to worry about losing my entire wallet or have it get stolen. You unfortunately have to worry about gypsies in Paris…

      The J.Crew Jacket is amazing!!

      Have the best trip! I can’t wait to hear about it! xo