Packing

• The pack light challenge:  Americans almost always bring TOO MUCH STUFF!
• The webmaster generally restricts himself to one large suitcase for clothes and one backpack for maps, reference books, etc.
• Pack smartly:  Select clothes that can be matched easily; Put toiletries in little bottles, etc.; Reduce weight and space with electronic versions of books and research materials.
• Electronic versions of reference materials can also reduce weight and mass.
• Travelers can also purchase soap, shampoo, etc. in France.

Packing—What not to Forget

• Tickets
• Passport
• Prescriptions
• Phone and laptop
• Money, travelers checks, credit cards
• Maps, reference books, research
• Camera and video equipment
• A Wash Cloth:  Europeans travel with their own washcloths.  Hotels do not supply them.

Laundry, Hygiene and Space

• Don’t bring a new shirt and pants for each day:  To minimize luggage, travelers should plan to wear the same day-time clothes for two to three days when they’re out stomping the battlefields.  Then, bring a nicer outfit or two for dinners at the hotel or nights on the town.  (See below.)
• Showers are generally “petit” compared to American showers; as are the complimentary soap and shampoo portions in the hotel rooms.

Outer Wear and Clothing

• Consult the weather section below before considering outer wear.
• Except, perhaps, for the summer months, a combination of a long-sleeve shirt, a heavy wool sweater, and a good waterproof jacket is the most practical.  In Northern France, the weather can range from sunny and beautiful to bone-chilling cold and damp.
• A good pair of hiking boots is recommended for the hearty battlefield stomper.  Travelers who aren’t so adventuresome are probably fine with a good pair of walking shoes.
• Again, it is a good idea to bring one pair of nice shoes for dinners and nights on the town and one pair of hiking boots or walking shoes for walking the battlefields.
• Jeans are the preferred pants for those who really want to get off the beaten path.  Khakis are probably fine for the less adventuresome.
• A compact umbrella is always a good bet, because it can rain every day.
• Finally, a waterproof case for maps and research notes is a smart choice.

Weather

• Northern Europe is COOLER and DAMPER than most of the U.S.; as shown in the chart below.  Also, the weather can change frequently, especially during the spring months.
• As a general rule travelers prepared for cold, damp weather will be prepared for the worst and will still be able to enjoy the warm sunny days too.

Source:  Rick Steve’s Europe Through the Back Door, 2001