Packing for Provence

  • Typical weather in Provence during our travel dates is warm, dry, and sunny with daytime highs between 75-82 degrees and nighttime lows between 55-63 degrees. The days will be long with sunset around 9:15 pm/9:30 pm, and the UV is strong, so pack sunscreen and a hat for sure. The chance of rain is very low, about 3-7 days/month, and short showers. When the temperatures do climb, it is a very dry heat, similar to Napa, so none of the East Coast humidity thankfully.

    The villa bedrooms are either air-conditioned or have cooling systems in the floor, but nighttime temps will be cool and comfortable, so you probably won’t need either.

  • Since the weather is hot and dry, think summer: 

    Lightweight, breathable clothing (linen and cotton for the daytime)

    • Shorts, skirts, and summer dresses.

    • Swimsuit and cover-up for the pool, which is heated to between 77 and 82 degrees

    • Sandals or light, comfortable walking shoes.

    • Dressier sandals for the evening

    • A light sweater, a jean jacket, or a wrap for the evenings. We will eat most, if not all of our dinners al fresco, so keep that in mind when packing these items.

    • A crossbody bag to carry money, sunglasses, and other essentials

    • Nothing screams Provence like a straw tote, but I would buy one there.

    The French love neutrals and stripes, which can really simplify the packing process -  think white, khaki, light blue, navy, and black. My closet is full of color, so I probably won’t stick to this color palette, but for those of you who are not chronic overpackers like myself, you may be able to fit everything in a carry-on. 

    Essential General Items

    • Sunscreen

    • Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses

    • Reusable water bottle

    Insect repellent (It’s not usually buggy but they have had an unusually wet year this year so it’s worth being prepared. I will also request some Citronella candles)

    • Provence uses the same voltage and plug as Europe, so be sure to bring several European adapters. Here is the one I suggest.

    • Hairdryers will be provided by the Villas. However, if you want to bring a hair tool it will need to be dual voltage with a European plug. I recommend this one.

    • If your personal items are in your carry-on luggage, they need to be in 3.4oz/100ml containers inside a 1-quart size clear bag. Exemptions include liquid medications. Read here for more details.

    • Remember to bring enough prescription medications and/or vitamins to last for the entirety of your trip. I like this color-coded pill box.

    • Pack ear plugs, an eye mask, and a neck pillow in your carry-on for the plane. I also recommend a pair of compression socks to promote healthy circulation and prevent swelling.

    • Melatonin or Good Day sleep chocolates can be helpful for sleeping on the plane and after arrival.

    • Jet Zone can help mitigate the effects of jet lag.

    • Good Day energy chocolates and peppermint essential oil can help you stay awake after you land.