You’ve planned your trip, bought your tickets, and picked out the places you want to visit. There’s just one thing left: what do you wear? I’ve put together this fashion guide for explorers so you’ll never be stuck again.
The Traveller’s Essential Fashion Guide – Photo by Erol Ahmed on Unsplash
The Traveller’s Essential Fashion Guide
Don’t overpack
Think about the place you’ll be exploring — are you going in summer or winter? Will you need to cover up? — and tailor your packing list accordingly. It’s easy to fall into the trap of packing something, just in case, but do you really need to? By all means take a couple of extra items in case of emergencies, but avoid stuffing your bags with unnecessary items that won’t fit in with your plans. There’s no point taking an evening dress if you’re going to be hiking around mountains, for example.
Wear the right footwear
Wherever you go, if you’re exploring then you’ll probably be doing a lot of walking, which means the right footwear is essential. Choose shoes which are comfortable, durable, and fit in with your existing wardrobe — you’ll be more likely to get wear out of them on future trips, making them worth the investment.
What shoes do I need?
- Good quality trainers will provide enough comfort for a city break.
- Walking boots will take you over any kind of terrain and are perfect for hiking and more challenging walks. Make sure you pick a sturdy pair — avoid UGG boots or anything similar.
- In some countries, like Japan, it’s easier to wear shoes that slip on and off, since many places require that you remove them before entering. Sandals will provide more support than flip flops.
The Traveller’s Essential Fashion Guide – Photo by Tamara Menzi on Unsplash
Layer up
Check the weather conditions you’ll be dealing with before you depart. If it’s going to be unpredictable, or you’ll be travelling through several different places, make sure you have clothes you can layer over each other.
Light layers in natural fabrics (like cotton) work well in warmer climates. You may need a cover-up, in case the air-con is on full-blast, and it’s worth taking a hooded, fold-away waterproof for any rain showers.
If you’ll be exploring a colder climate, make sure you have a long-sleeved, woollen jumper to layer over your base, and long trousers to shelter your legs from the cold. Going to somewhere like Iceland? You may need thermals depending on the date of your trip.
The Traveller’s Essential Fashion Guide – Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
Don’t forget your hat
Be sure to protect your scalp from sunburn in warmer climates, especially if you’ll be going somewhere where there’s not much shelter or shade. In colder destinations, a woolly hat and gloves will shield you from chilly winds.
Bring a secure bag
Consider carrying your belongings in an anti-theft backpack. These handy bags have a zip along the back, instead of across the top, which means your possessions will be safe from the thieving hands of pickpockets.
Respect local customs
Some areas are more conservative than others, with women being required to cover their shoulders, knees, and stomach, so make sure you know the rules and cover up when you need to.
Consider packing a scarf
Scarves are incredibly versatile. Get the right size and you can use it to keep warm, cover up (see above), or as a blanket while you’re on a train or plane. A smart scarf can also function as an accessory if you need to dress up an outfit in an instant.
What are your tips for travel? Do share in the comments below.
