Passport
Before traveling to France, ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date, as this is a common requirement for entry into many European countries.
Visiting the EU
ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorization System, is an electronic travel authorization required for visa-exempt travelers visiting most European countries within the Schengen Area.
You will need to apply before traveling. It is scheduled to launch in the 2nd quarter of 2025.
Travelers from eligible countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, must apply online before their trip. The application process is quick, typically taking about 10 minutes, and requires a valid passport, email address, and payment of a small fee (around €7 for applicants aged 18-70). Once approved, ETIAS is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, allowing multiple short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).
ETIAS Links
Visiting the UK
Visitors not requiring a visa--including US citizens--entering the UK on or after 8 January 2025 will need to apply for an electronic travel authorization (ETA).
Credit Cards
For a smooth trip, notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid issues with your credit or debit cards, and consider carrying some euros for small purchases.
Phone Plans
Stay connected by verifying your phone plan's international coverage or purchasing a local SIM card. You’ll want to upload your ride to Strava. As they say, if it’s not on Strava, it didn’t happen.
Travel Plug Adapter
For France’s use Type C or E adapters. Pack several as they are cheap and easily left behind. Some adapters have USB ports which are quite useful for changing a phone. Note that Italy, Switzerland and the UK require different adapters.
Best Practice
Keep digital and physical copies of your travel documents for added security.