Packing Suggestions: Males
PACKING SUGGESTIONS
Keep in mind: Pack enough, but pack light. Remember, you pack it, you carry it! You probably don’t need as much as you think you need. But at the same time you may need some things you’ve never considered. Leave some empty space in your suitcase in order to bring back any souvenirs your purchase in France.
For our departure day, wear something comfortable. You’ll have this outfit on for a long time; over 24 hours. That is unless you want to change on the plane like Chris Farley in Tommy Boy.
Shoes. --Bring comfortable walking shoes. You will do a lot of walking.
--Bring a nice pair of shoes in case there is a “dressy” occasion. Yes, your walking shoes may work.
The weather should be nice, so bring summer-type clothes like you would wear here in Erie. But be prepared for cooler weather, too. Pack one or two cardigan sweaters; no more than four pair of slacks (including jeans); ladies may want to bring 3 or 4 skirts and/or dresses; bring a light jacket (hooded, if you have one) and even a hooded sweatshirt or a light rain jacket. This is easier than carrying an umbrella.
Shorts??? This is a debate that's gone on for a number of years. Should you or should you not pack shorts for your trip to France? Many say it is inappropriate, that it isn't done there and you shouldn't, some of their students have had problems (regarding treatment by natives), and that you may not be admitted into certain places. Others will tell you that they've seen it done many times, that they have never had any problems, that it is more common these days (maybe even among some natives), and that it's almost expected of American tourists.
In May, 2000, the question came up on FLTEACH, a mail list to which I subscribe. Click here
to see a compilation of opinions of experienced teachers from around the US.
Personally, I don't recall any problems from my students wearing shorts. I plan to wear them, weather permitting. That doesn't mean none of our young ladies will ever be harassed like one teacher related. She tried to convince her students not to wear shorts. They went against her wishes and did. Went on the metro and lasted 2 stops before they got off -- apparently getting teased by the locals. According to the teacher, they cried, "You were right...!!!" It's never happened on one of my trips, but you never say never.
Make sure you bring enough socks, tops and underwear. You may even have an opportunity to wash these at a hotel or in Cholet.
International electric converter. American plugs will not go directly into European wall outlets. If you plan to bring any electrical items (hair dryer, curling iron, contact lens cleaning items, etc.) you will need an international electric converter. I know that they are available at Wal-Mart and you could probably find them elsewhere. Maybe roommates could chip in and buy one.
HBA & other stuff. Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, soap and whatever else you may use in your daily routine (floss, mouthwash, etc.,). Check Wal-Mart. They sell small sample sizes of these products near the Pharmacy. These are nice because they’ll do the job, and on the last day of the trip you can leave them in the hotel (more room in your suitcase).
You may want to bring the following, just in case. If you need it, you’ll be happier if you don’t have to search & buy: aspirin/tylenol (or whatever you prefer to take for headaches); Dramamine for motion sickness; cold medicine; antacids.
**If you are taking a prescription medicine that you must have, bring an extra copy of that prescription just in case you run out or lose the medicine.
If you can think of anything else to add to this list please let me know.
Film. You might use a roll a day, or more. You’ll want to buy it here since it’ll be more expensive in France.
Batteries for your camera, walkman, etc. Again, it’s much more convenient (and cheaper) to buy them before you leave.
If you’re bringing a video camera make sure you bring enough tape, the battery charger, and a spare lithium battery.
Carry-on Bag . You are allowed to bring one carry-on bag onto the plane. It must be able to fit either in the over head compartment or under the seat in front of you. In it make sure you put anything you will need on the plane. such as a book/magazine, aspirin, snacks (no fruit or meat products) like candy , gum (ears), camera, spare roll of film, deck of cards, etc. Once you drop off your suitcase at the Erie airport, you may not see it again until we get to Paris.
Also, in the rare case that your luggage does not arrive when we arrive, you should keep the following in your carry-on: clean top, clean underwear, cosmetic/toilette kit.
One more handy item to pack, which you may not have considered: ZIP-LOCK BAGS . Bring of box of these and you’ll be glad you did. These can be used for: packing cosmetics (sometimes they leak in your suitcase/carry-on); barf-bags (Really!! You never know!); other needs you might not even think of until the moment arrives.
Swimwear. (This paragraph only applies if we travel to Nice.) When we’re in Nice you’ll have a chance to swim in the French Riviera, so remember your bathing suit. You may want to consider water shoes, too. You see, the beach we will visit doesn’t have sand but large flat stones. When you’re walking in the water it’s a little slippery.
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