What I'm packing for pilgrimage to France
- Aimee Boudreaux MacIver
- May 19
- 6 min read
What do you pack for a pilgrimage? I'm so glad you asked. I happen to have a lot of pilgrimage packing experience (and opinions) that I love sharing. Pilgrimage invites us not just to go somewhere different—but to go differently.
We're leading a pilgrimage through France next week, which falls during one of my favorite times of year to be in France. There's a lovely paradox of soft new blossoms and ancient stones, sunkissed days and cool evenings, that reflects the journey of pilgrimage itself: plans and detours, laughter and tears, and everywhere beauty that catches you completely off guard.
Y'all know I'm a weirdo who actually loves packing, so I'm looking forward to distilling down my stuff and needs to minimalist bliss. Pilgrimage packing requires some unique considerations. Here's what I'm packing for pilgrimage through France:
Clothing
The primary consideration for pilgrimage dress is reverence. You'll be worshiping and praying in sacred places, some of which enforce coverage of shoulders and knees. You'll also be witnessing to the sacred simply by virtue of your presence. Dress with reverence for God, the holy spaces you'll enter, and the dignity of yourself and everyone around you. You’d be surprised how powerful that witness can be.
Jeans: Contrary to popular belief, the French do not wear kitten heels and pencil skirts to run errands. I always see plenty of jeans and sneakers in France, including Paris.
I will definitely pack jeans and sneakers, but for a pilgrimage I think you should level up in reverence for the sacred: no ratty slashed jeans with heavy distressing, nor saggy old tees.
And there's another reason to elevate your style on pilgrimage: photos. You’re going to take a ton of photos, and you won’t regret looking polished against those iconic backdrops.
Red: French street style is often very neutral, but not colorless. A greater difference with American style is the lack of bright logos or branding. Personally, I like to pack red for Paris—red brightens up your face and looks striking in photos against all that gray architecture. In general, I recommend packing a limited color palette so your pieces can mix and match most easily.
Layers to rewear: Pilgrimage invites focus on the interior, not exterior. I pack light with the intention to rewear items so I can simply get dressed without undue self-preoccupation. I pack these ultrathin, ultrasoft cotton undershirts for every trip. They disappear under everything and protect your sweaters, dresses, tops, and other clothes so you can extend re-wears, which helps for packing lighter.
Versatile outerwear: For France, a waterproof trench is essential (this one* is so, so good—flattering and timelessly chic, genuinely waterproof, and has a zip-off hood).
Dresses and skirts: These pieces are no-brainer for pilgrimage because they offer coverage for sacred spaces plus effortless style, so you can focus on higher things.
Slip skirt: I love this skirt so much that I have it in three colors and almost never travel without it; it mixes beautifully with sweaters and tops, sandals or sneakers, packs down to nothing, and travels with versatility from street markets to Mass.
This washable silk slip skirt is also a dream*
One black top/ lightweight sweater (click here to read why)
Convertible leather belt bag: I strongly prefer a convertible belt bag for pilgrimage because it offers greater security and flexibility. I have this very small, very minimalist leather one, but I also love this version that's a little roomier, wipeable, in tons of colors with a perfect shape.
Shoes
Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. I am an extensive walker; my typical day clocks in around 20-25,000 steps. When we travel, we usually clock about 30,000+ daily steps.
Pack no more than three pairs of shoes; wear the heaviest or bulkiest pair on the plane. Good options for France's winding cobblestones include flats, loafers, sandals, and minimalist sneakers.
I love my Thousand Fell white sneakers and lately have been into unisex sneakers like the black retro Sauconys or the black leather Nike Cortez.
Saltwater sandals: I usually pack these, wherever I'm going. Saltwaters are from an era when things were made to last. These sandals are hand-stitched of leather, rubber, and brass. They won't take any space in packing. Bonus: they mold to your feet with use and they're waterproof—I also have a pair for the beach and pool. But none of that would matter if they didn't also look great. Despite a million miles of walking, and years of splashing, climbing, and being stuffed into random suitcase crevices, my Saltwaters still look almost new.
Metallic flat mary janes: I just wore these all over Rome and Assisi and cannot tell you how much my problem feet love these affordable shoes (they even fit my orthotics!)
Socks
Yes, we're devoting an entire section to socks. Socks add a lot of style bang for your packing buck. These scalloped socks are well-made of textured cotton and add a bit of charm to your outfit. These red socks add a pop of unexpected personality to your regular neutrals and basics (they also come in several other colorways.)
I also love these merino wool socks. I have a collection of different colors and styles, but I recommend the no-show cream colorway for the best versatility. Merino feels pleasantly nubby on your feet, holds up to tons of use, never smells funky, and wicks moisture. Even in Louisiana August, your feet will stay dry. Some merino enthusiasts even say they wear these socks multiple times before a wash, and I can understand why they say that, but y'all. Wash your socks.
If you're not worried about cold ankles and are hunting for truly no-show that do not slip down, stop testing random brands and get these. These are quite simply a product that does what it's supposed to do.
Bring extra socks—you’ll want fresh pairs if you're walking a lot.
And a parting low-cut sock hack: Tuck the back of your sock over the heel of your shoe; they'll stay up and you will stay blister-free. De rien.
Other travel essentials
I could sing on and on the praises of my favorite travel backpack. It offers tons of pockets and compartments to keep you organized and has some smart features like security pockets, water-resistant exterior, and comfortable straps. The zippers are beautiful and function smoothly. Details!
Plug adapter: actually, pack two just in case you forget one at a hotel.
Over-ear headphones are more comfortable and noise-protective on long flights than earbuds.
My glass water bottle: Refill at fountains, stay hydrated, feel virtuous.
A few snacks: Protein bars or dried fruit for the inevitable gap between boulangeries. For Europe, I usually pack bone broth packets for comforting protein that's a welcome reprieve from endless butter and cream.
Please tell me you wouldn't dream of drinking Starbucks or some other random coffee just because you're traveling. I have used this coffee press on a moving bus, in airports, and in more hotel rooms than I can count. It makes incredible coffee every time. All you need is a hot water source (and coffee, of course). Pro tip: European hotel rooms almost always have an electric kettle.
If you're not using packing cubes yet, you'll love how instantly organized they make your luggage and how easily you'll be able to keep track of where everything is while you're living out of a suitcase.
This little flat-pack gadget bends and folds to hook onto anything (I use mine to hold my phone on seat backs or tray tables). Slip it in your bag and enjoy not using your phone at angles that destroy your neck.
The best travel umbrella (because France)
A good pair of noise-reducing earplugs is always helpful.
Toups and Company organic skincare products: I can’t survive without this frankincense tallow balm or tinted lip balm, especially after long flights that parch your skin. A teeny bit goes a long way. My jar lasts about two months with twice daily use. I also love, use daily, and subscribe to the the mineral makeup (a jar lasts me a few months).
Pilgrimage tools
Small journal and pen: Write down what the silence and beauty reveal and whisper. I especially like to make thoughtful note of the sensory experience in a sacred place: what are you seeing, smelling, hearing, tasting, touching? Your body is not incidental, but intentional: let the physcial reveal the spiritual.
Zip pouch for sacred sacramentals: Don't be afraid to gather up stones, leaves, flowers, Mass cards, random medals—some of my favorite pilgrimage souvenirs are the ones with the tangible connections (#theologyofthebody). A zip pouch keeps them contained (and it may as well be cute).
Catholic Geaux Bag is a portable collection of essential sacramentals to take wherever you roam and roost. This set comes from our dear friends' non-profit and includes essentials like a crucifix, holy water, blessed salt, a brown scapular, and more.
Bon pèlerinage!
*P.S. If you would like a $20 off code for Quince, where I got my silk skirt, waterproof trench, and belt bag, email me at aimee@thyship.com.
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