I'm no fashion guru, but layers are the way to go. Image by S Wilson.

Consider…

THE WEATHER

Layers! Layers! Layers!  If you’ll be traveling between two different climates, or even just moving from indoors to outdoors in one climate, you’ll find that layers are beneficial and save a lot of packing space.  If your destination is cold, you can add more layers accordingly, such as long sleeved shirts, sweaters, sweatshirts, or, in very cold environments, jackets and coats.

If you’ll be going to a very hot environment, it’s still a good idea to have a light sweatshirt or jacket just in case it gets chilly at night or you plan on visiting a place of worship and want to dress more modestly.  Other than that, try to pick clothing made out of light weight cotton, Rayon, or blends.  Avoid heavy cotton, like jeans, as they don’t breathe well and take a considerable amount of time to dry.

If you are fortunate enough to be in a place with both a washer and dryer, this may not be a concern.  But not all hostels or hotels have these facilities and if you don’t want to venture out to find a laundromat, you may have to do your laundry in a sink and hang it out to dry.  If the article of clothing can’t dry overnight, don’t bring it with you.

THE LOCALS

Take into consideration what the locals wear and try to adapt accordingly.  This doesn’t mean you must buy an entirely new wardrobe to blend in, but rather consider if the country you are visiting is more modest that your home country.  Not only will you be more comfortable, but most of the time you’ll also gain respect from the locals.

In countries where you can blend in with the locals, you also make yourself less of a target for pickpockets and thieves.  However, even if you get the perfect clothes to blend in with the locals, sometimes you’ll just have to come to turns with being pegged as a tourist and take the appropriate precautions.

Image by S Wilson

YOUR ACTIVITIES

Chances are you are going to do a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.  Also consider activities such as hiking, swimming, going out to dinner, or visiting places of worship or holy sites.  If you can find articles of clothing that works for multiple settings, bring them.  They will be useful and save space.

The number one tip: DON’T PACK TOO MANY CLOTHES!

Remember the cardinal rule of packing: You have limited space, and you will be picking up stuff along the way, whether they be souvenirs or something else. Why not let those souvenirs be shirts, jackets, or pants? Not only will you end up looking more like the locals, but you’ll also have a useful item when you get home instead of a tchotchke that sits on your counter. Our personal advise is to pack a few neutral t-shirts you don’t mind getting rid of during the trip if they are replaced with ones you pick up along the way.