What to pack for Lourdes
- Aimee Boudreaux MacIver
- 3 hours ago
- 7 min read
This week I’m headed to do pilgrimage scouting in Lourdes. The small mountain town receives millions of pilgrims every year and requires some unique packing considerations. A pilgrimage invites us not just to go somewhere different, but to go differently. I have acquired a lot of pilgrimage packing experience (and opinions) that I love sharing. Here's what I'm packing for pilgrimage to Lourdes:
What do you pack for a pilgrimage to Lourdes?
Lourdes has some unique packing considerations that your average France trip doesn't:
You will likely perform the water gesture in the pools fed by the spring Our Lady revealed to Bernadette. Plan for possible immersion, or just getting pretty wet.
You can’t miss the candlelight flambeaux procession that happens every evening. But the Pyrenees foothills are genuinely cool most of the year. Pack a real layer.
The terrain around the shrine requires extensive walking on uneven ground. Comfortable, grippy shoes are not optional.
Pilgrimage packing is about simplicity and style, not fashion at its most creative or expressive. Simplicity frees you—literally, of unnecessary stuff, but also of the internal clutter of having to manage stuff. Style frees you, too; the better you feel, the more able you will be to stop thinking about how you look and wholly immerse yourself in the present.
I make packing sketches for our trips instead of packing lists. Draw your potential packing list and then draw all the outfits you can make with those pieces (it doesn't matter how well you draw; this is just for you!). I always end up taking several things out of my bags when I realize how little I need to make lots of great combinations. Bonus: your packing sketch will be a sweet souvenir.
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 become a witness 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. 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.
I'm packing for a backpack and small carry-on, which means I'm packing light and rewearing intentionally. Here's my formula:
Two pants: I usually pack two different styles and washes of jeans. For a pilgrimage, I think you should level up in reverence for the sacred: no ratty slashed jeans with heavy distressing. These are my current favorite Levis.
One slip skirt: I love this midi slip skirt so much that I have it in three colors and almost never travel without it. It's ideal for pilgrimage: coverage for sacred spaces, effortless style, packs down to nothing, and travels from street markets to Mass. This washable silk slip skirt is also a dream. Lately I’m really into the longer maxi slip skirts.
Three to four tops: mostly lightweight sweaters and tailored tees; one is always a black top/ lightweight sweater (click here to read why!)
Undershirts: Pilgrimage invites focus on the interior, not exterior. I aim to rewear items so I can simply get dressed without undue self-preoccupation. My MVPs: these ultrathin cotton undershirts that come on every trip. They disappear under everything and protect your clothes so you can rewear items and pack lighter.
Waterproof trench: For Lourdes with its fickle weather, a waterproof trench is essential. This one is so good: flattering, genuinely waterproof, zip-off hood.
One warm layer: a packable down jacket or a substantial sweater that can layer under the trench
Modest swimsuit: I always pack a swimsuit because you just never know. This simple one-piece is ideal (this one is astonishingly awesome).
One emergency dress: I always pack an emergency dress in my backpack/ onboard personal item—something that's seasonless, wrinkle-free, midi or maxi length, with sleeves, in a darker print, that works with dressier shoes or sneakers. The emergency dress essentially covers all possible events and occasions in case your luggage is delayed or lost.
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.
Plastic pouch: for storing wet clothes after the water gesture
Color: I like to pack red for trips—red brightens up your face and looks striking in photos against all that historic architecture and the lush green of the Haute-Pyrenees. In general, pack a limited color palette so your pieces can mix and match most easily.
Shoes
Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. Pack no more than three pairs of shoes; wear the heaviest pair on the plane. Good options for Lourdes’ crooked cobblestones include flats, loafers, sandals, and minimalist sneakers.
Low-profile sneakers: I love my Quince low-profile leather sneakers and my trusty Thousand Fell white sneakers. Other low-profile sneakers I’ve eyed lately are these budget-friendly designer lookalikes; these affordable leather Adidas in a range of beautiful colors; and these leather Nike Cortez sneakers. I also own and often pack these waterproof suede sneakers.
Flat mary janes: I have worn these all over Italy, France, Poland, Mexico, and Ireland, and cannot tell you how much my problem feet love these affordable shoes (they even fit my orthotics!)
Saltwater sandals: I usually pack these, wherever I'm going. These sandals are hand-stitched of leather, rubber, and brass. They’re waterproof, packable, mold to your feet with wear, and still look almost new after years of abuse. I take these everywhere.
Socks
Yes, we're devoting an entire section to socks. Socks add a lot of style bang for your packing buck. Bring extra socks—you’ll want fresh pairs if you're walking a lot.
Merino wool socks: I love these merino wool socks. They never smell, wick moisture, and hold up to constant use. 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.
A few charming pairs: These scalloped socks are well-made of textured cotton and add a bit of charm to your outfit. Red socks add a pop of unexpected personality to your regular neutrals and basics (they also come in several other colorways).
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.
No-show 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.
Pilgrimage tools
A pilgrimage is not merely a trip. Here are some items I pack to help enter in most deeply:
Small journal and pen: Write down what the silence and beauty reveal and whisper. I especially like to take 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 physical reveal the spiritual.
Rosary: Lourdes is the premiere Marian pilgrimage site. Give 15 minutes a day to change the world! P.S. Bring home a rosary from Lourdes that you’ve used to pray at the grotto. This makes a deeply special gift or souvenir.
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).
Stations of the Cross: Lourdes has a beautiful outdoor Stations path up the hillside. You can use these on your phone to pray at your own pace
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.
Other travel essentials
Travel backpack: I could sing the praises of my favorite travel backpack. It offers tons of pockets and compartments to keep you organized and has 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: more comfortable and noise-protective on long flights than earbuds
Glass water bottle: refill at fountains, stay hydrated, feel virtuous
Packing cubes: life-changing for living out of a small bag
Flat-pack phone holder: this flat-pack gadget hooks onto anything for hands-free viewing on flights
Travel umbrella: because France
Coffee press : 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 ground coffee. P.S.: European hotel rooms almost always come with an electric kettle.
A few dry 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.
Pilgrimage to Lourdes
Lourdes invites you to experiences that reach far deeper than packing lists. But the lighter you travel, the freer you'll be to receive when you arrive. Pack simply, dress reverently, and save space—in your bag and in yourself—for whatever grace finds you. Bon pèlerinage!
Are you dreaming of a pilgrimage to Lourdes? Thy Ship would love to help you go differently. This is my favorite thing to do. Let's talk!
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