Top 10 Packing Must-Haves For Your Trip To France

1. Five-Language Talking Translator

One of the single most important things you will need in France is the ability to speak French. You are bound to need to ask directions or read a sign or a menu that is only in French. If you don't have a translator, you could truly regret it! What I like about this one is that it is a talking version, so you won't have to deal with blank stares when you mispronounce a word. It also features a currency and metric converter.

2. Dockers 18" Wheeled Backpack

As anyone who has traveled around France by train knows, versatile luggage is crucial. I prefer the rolling backpack because it can be carried on your back or rolled through the airports or train stations when your shoulders feel like they are about to burn right off. This model is nice because it is roomy, and doesn't get too heavy when it's worn as a backpack.

3. Audiovox 5-Megapixel Multi-Function Digital Camera

For any trip, a decent digital camera is a real plus. This handy 5-megapixel camera really outdoes itself (and cuts down on the gadgets you'll need to pack). It is a camera, camcorder and Mp3 player, and does a pretty decent job in all the roles. Versatile and handy!

4. Voltage Converter with Adaptor Plug Set

If you plan to plug in anything you bring with you, it won't fit in the holes unless you bring an adaptor (and these are surprisingly hard to find over there), and it just might get burned out if you don't convert the electrical current. This is the best investment you can make: a few bucks to save (and be able to use) your electronics worth hundreds of dollars.

5. Comfort Walking Shoes

In France, you walk. You walk to shop. You walk along the Seine. You walk to attractions. And when you get to those attractions, you walk up 10 flights of spiral stairs. This is the best investment you can make before your trip. Get a nice pair of high-quality walking shoes. If you don't have the cash, at least get a couple pairs of walking inserts. Trust me. You will thank me later.

6. Earplanes For Ear Pain

Avoid ear pain on the long flight to France with these wonderful, inexpensive Earplanes. I've used them many times personally to avoid pesky popping and pain. Just stick them in your ears on the departure and for the descent. They even come in versions for children, which could make for a much more peaceful flight.

7. France Maps

The worst feeling is to be in France, lost, and only have a limited grasp of the language. Avoid such mishaps with a very good France map, which is absolutely crucial if you plan to drive at all. Buying a map while in France, it will be tough to find one in English, so get it before you go. Consult this list of top road maps of France.

8. Door Stop Alarm

For increased security in a foreign land, I always felt better having an alarm. Wedge this under hotel door or train compartment door and, if it opens, an alarm will sound.

9. Sharper Image Travel Sound Soother 20 with LCD Alarm Clock

This is a must-have, especially as you adjust to the new time zone. It is important to have a good travel alarm. What's great about this travel clock is it also features 20 soothing sounds. If you've ever been woken in the night at a hotel in Paris or Nice by the sound of a noisy scooter or an irate driver honking, you know how important this feature is. You can even use an earbud to avoid disturbing others (say on the plane or train).

10. WindPro Flatwear Vented Auto Umbrella

This may not seem crucial, but trust me on this one (especially if you will be visiting Paris during the rainy/windy season, which seems to run from January through December). It is also quite important to get a good umbrella. I've had plenty of compact, travel umbrellas bite the dust under Parisian winds. This one is sturdy, and vented so the wind won't flip it inside out.