Picking what to wear on your vacation can be really difficult. Especially if you’re a first-time traveler.
It’s common to hear about tourists making mistakes and getting into hot water for their clothing. Some people take it to the extreme and don’t wear anything at all. Don’t be that person who makes headlines for the wrong outfit.
If you have to worry about your clothing you won’t be able to have a fun trip.
Want to know how to travel in style, while staying comfortable and safe? This article will tell you everything you need to know about what to wear when traveling.
Research Before You Go
Before traveling abroad it’s a good idea to get an idea of what your destination is like. You can use image searches to do some research and see what the dress is like in any location around the world. You can also discover more about what people are wearing by looking at social media.
Social media can be particularly helpful because it’s unfiltered and raw. Unlike guidebooks or tourist websites, it shows you the real deal. The tagged location on social media of attractions you’re going to visit is a good place to start.
Bring Something to Cover up With
The coverup is an essential part of your tourist outfit, so don’t leave home without it. Clothing items that can be used to cover yourself are a multitasking powerhouse.
They’re good to have on hand for religious or conservative places where modest dress is required. They can also work to protect against the weather and insects as well. In hot weather, a coverup can prevent a sunburn, and in cold weather, it keeps you warm.
For your top half, take along a button up shirt to use as a jacket or a longer tunic. A maxi skirt or long pants can work in all weather conditions as well. Scarves are multipurpose, allowing you to either cover up a low neckline or cover your head.
The great thing about scarves is that most places have their own local versions. So if all else fails, use the next trip and buy one while you’re on your trip.
Buy Clothes When You Arrive
When traveling overseas, experienced jet-setters recommend buying local clothing. Not just because they make great souvenirs and memories, either. They help you blend in and can signal that you respect local culture.
This tip can be especially important in places where pickpocketing or crimes against tourists are common. Dressing like a local could save you from being victimized. If you shop for the right items, you could blend in completely.
That way, no one will know you’re a tourist.
If you want to be fully prepared you can do some research before you head off on your trip. Look up the prices of common clothing items there. Often you’ll be able to get a good bargain, especially in countries that aren’t that rich.
Dress More Nicely
Often in more modern or Western countries, there is no special local dress. So what tops the list of traveling abroad tips for those places? The answer is to dress up your normal outfits a bit so you don’t look like a tourist.
You don’t need to bring your best ballgown or tuxedo. However, if you’re visiting a city, for example, simple changes can be made.
Bring a collared shirt or blouse instead of a t-shirt. Pack a pair of chinos to replace the shorts you would have worn.
Jeans can be a great versatile clothing item. However, they should be well fitting and wrinkle-free. Don’t wear them ripped or baggy as this is frowned upon in some cultures.
For hot or rainy climates though, other forms of clothing may be better. Jeans take longer to dry and don’t breathe well. Take note of the expected weather and pack accordingly.
Pack Closed Toe Shoes
Sorry, flip-flop, Crocs, and Birkenstocks lovers. Unless you’re traveling to a beach destination, you’re going to want to bring some shoes.
In city environments, crowds, loose gravel, and dirt are all factors you should keep in mind. This means bring comfortable walking shoes that protect your toes.
If you really feel attached to your white tennis shoes, remember they can make you a target and stop you from blending in. In more sophisticated destinations, they are just as frowned upon as a pair of ripped jeans.
Choose the Right Fabrics
When choosing what to wear, the right fabrics are important. Don’t pack too many heavy clothes and risk going over your baggage limit. Quick-drying and wrinkle-resistant fabrics are a major plus for any traveler.
Some fabrics are ideal for travel. These include merino wool, which wicks away moisture and keeps you dry and warm. On the other hand, cotton holds moisture and may not be great for cold weather.
This is why you have to consider the activities and sightseeing you plan to do. Weather is also a major consideration for your fabric choice. Layers are also a good idea because you can make multiple outfits out of them.
Got some ideas about what you want to bring? Lay them out and make sure they can fit into your suitcase. Take a good hard look at what you are thinking of packing. All of those “just in case” outfits usually just end up being extra weight.
What to Wear When Traveling Abroad
Hopefully, this list has given you all the tools you need to pick what to wear when traveling.
Don’t neglect your accessories when packing either. A sturdy bag that straps across your body to hold the essentials is a lifesaver. Large backpacks are conspicuous, so if you bring one, leave it at your hotel or hostel.
Now that you know what to wear, want some travel inspiration? We can help. Check out our list of the top 10 safest countries for solo travelers to visit.
