7 packing tips for your business trip to France

Eiffel Tower, France.

Despite the prevalence of diverse digital and communication technologies, business trips remain an essential recipe for intra and inter-organizational interaction, corporate marketing, functional representations, amongst others.

However, a business trip to the historic nation of France comes in a class of its own. Though you need to pack all items that ensure your visit is productive and fulfilling, it is important not to go over the edge.

In a dilemma of what to pack and what not to? Not too worry — Here are 7 smart tips on packing for a business trip to France.

Travel light

Though travelling light is actually a useful advice when visiting any country, it is particularly of note when travelling to France. Moving around is a lot easier when you don’t have too much on you. A prominent feature of France is that it is characterized by plentiful stairs and elevators. Also, you would have to put up with lots and lots of walking.

Travelling light, however, does not mean leaving out key items. For example, pack clothes that belong to a certain colour scheme. This way, you don’t have to travel with a huge stack of clothes and you can easily mix/match them.

Depending on the length of your trip, a briefcase (for housing official documents) and a suitcase should be adequate.

Dress French

That it houses Paris — a city dubbed as one of the fashion capitals of the world — is not mere coincidence. Fashion and style are very important in France. You should live up to the tasteful and stylish clothing culture. The general dress code tends to be formal even on social occasions. Travel with high-quality suits, comfy shoes and other stylish accessories (and/or buy when you get there).

Pack for the weather

Aside the glitz and style of France is the tricky weather, and you should pack accordingly. It could be a wonderful sunny day one moment and a heavy rainfall the next. France has four distinct seasons namely spring, summer, autumn and winter. For example, winter in France can be very cold and calls for apparels like sweaters, warm coats, gloves etc. You should check the weather forecast as your trip gets near and plan accordingly.

‘Tech up’

High tech digital devices are often needed for communication and presentations while on a business trip. It’s important to travel with gadgets that ensure your journey and work schedule is a smooth one. Ideally, a laptop, tablet and smartphone should be sufficient. You can check this list of devices and gadgets to see some other devices that might make your travel easier.

Also, note that electrical sockets in France come in either of the two European standard electrical socket types. The “Type C” Europlug and the “Type E” and “Type F” Schuko. You will need to bring a travel plug adapter if your device’s plug doesn’t match the sockets.

Bring Euros

Before embarking on your French business trip, it is good to have some of your pocket money converted to Euros. Upon arrival, you’ll need to pay for transportation, restaurant bills etc. While you will find numerous bureaux de change at the airport, they do not always offer the best exchange rates. Also, many banks charge higher for international ATM withdrawals. You should make a projection of likely expenses and plan accordingly.

Pack other essentials

You should bring extra copies of documents such as passport, air ticket reservations, hotel reservations and other important documentations. Make an HD scan of your identification documents such as drivers licence and have them saved on your mobile device(s) and email. Don’t forget personal care items that are part of your daily routine including medications (if you have any).

….and lastly, a French phrasebook.

As the popular saying goes, “speak French when you’re in France”. It won’t be strictly all business every minute of the day. It’s quite alright to speak in English but you can indeed add some glamour and humour to your experience by speaking some French. Basic French words and phrases such as bonjour, bonsoir, au revoir and merci are what a typical French phrasebook will teach you. This can be useful in your social interactions and in finding your way around.

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