We are going on the Eastern France tour starting this Sunday. I wanted input for clothing - especially do I need to bring a coat? There are 2 days in Chamonix in the French Alps. I hate to lug a coat and take up so much real estate in my luggage, and wondered if I can get by with flannel shirt, sweater, Champion knit jacket, Cuddleduds, etc. Thanks for anyone's input!
Posted by
North Georgia, USA
1097 posts
I took long sleeve t-shirt, fleece and a waterproof rain shell for layering. No coat.
Posted by
Normandie
272 posts
I learned today a new thing: that a rain shell is not a coat. Who said travel isn't educational?
For Chamonix this time of year, I would recommend fleece (either vest or something with sleeves) and a water- and (possibly more importantly) wind- resistant shell, and you should be fine; even if you choose to go up the téléphérique.
As for the original question, I'm not sure what a Champion knit jacket or a Cuddleduds are. With fleece, I don't think a flannel shirt or sweater would be necessary.
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
13968 posts
I am in France now but in Normandy where it had to be at least 80 today. 2 weeks ago I was in Paris and whining because it was pretty chilly. At the last minute when packing I left out a long sleeve shirt to try and lighten my load.
I would pack one long sleeve top (or cuddlduds), a sweater or jacket which I assume you were going to pack anyway and a waterproof layer. You might pack light glove liners.
Posted by
Walnut Creek, CA
368 posts
Hi Cindy:
I went on the eastern France trip this time of year and I was fine with a zip front sweatshirt. What you are proposing will be fine. I would also recommend bringing a rain resistant shell as we did get rain on several days and gloves as well. For the most part it was warm but not hot and I did not need any jacket. Since you are only going to be in Chamonix for 2 days don't bother with the coat.
This is a wonderful trip and you will love it.
Who is your guide?
Barbara
Posted by
Gator country
172 posts
No coat, you won't be in coat weather except at the top of the Aiguille du Midi. Just use layers using the other clothes you are packing. A pair of gloves will feel good at the top also. Enjoy! Be prepared for a fantastic lunch and great wine on day 12 at the winery. Also, if you are staying at the Hotel Le Beffroi in the old town at Vaison-la-Romaine, buy wine for your room before you climb up that long hill. I had a room in the annex, it was roomy and had a fridge. Folks in the main building complained that the rooms were very small. Lucky you, they took Marseilles off of the itinerary!
Posted by
Florida, USA
12172 posts
Phew, I just got back from Burgundy/Alsace and it was freezing. I notice every French person has a coat and a scarf even on nice days because the afternoon might get chilly/breezy. I can't imagine going into the Alps, really anytime of the year but especially now, without preparing for freezing and breezy weather. I'd want one, better two, really good warm layers, maybe a wool sweater and down vest, plus a good water and wind proof shell. I'd also be ready to buy a scarf, knit cap and/or some gloves for going into the Alps. Plan on shoes that can take some water and can be worn with warm socks.
A jacket that doesn't break the wind might be useless, rather than a flannel shirt a light-weight wool sweater will be warmer and just as light in your luggage - plus can be worn other ways like an outside layer on a cool, but not cold, evening. I'd probably pack a base layer type shirt for under it (never heard of cuddleduds).