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Ze Wandering Frogs

Hike, kite, dive – adventure travel with a french twist, essential women’s travel clothing for hot climates.

We are usually all harnessed in technical gear, ready for any adventure travel or outdoor activity. Mostly because we go trekking in high mountains, kiteboarding in turquoise lagoons, or exploring remote regions of Mongolia, Canada, or Pakistan. However, when it comes to traveling to hot climates, I admit I like to have a few more items in addition to my regular hiking pants and board shorts. That’s how I added a few essential travel clothing for hot climates to my packing list. Finding the right summer clothes for women takes some time as well as they come in different shapes and sizes, and of course, purposes!

This post contains sponsored and affiliate links, which means we receive a percentage if you make a purchase using these links – at no cost to you.

Why Travel Clothing for Hot Climates?

More of my usual gear would be suitable for hot climates as they are lightweight, dry quickly, and work well for warm temperatures. However, they tend to be tight outfits that work best in for outdoor activities.

As we traveled this summer in the South of France and Africa, I realized I needed to add a few more items to make travel more comfortable. And because we will be traveling to conservative countries, I had to find women’s clothes for hot climates that would show less skin than the usual summer beach clothes.

See below some of the easy summer outfits for women I liked and packed.

What to Wear for Hot Weather

Before discussing design, I usually avoid cotton, linen, and leather during our outdoor activities. But these materials are perfect for the summer’s hot temperatures. I also enjoy Rayon and viscose fabrics – soft and comfortable to wear. Here are what I found as new cute summer clothes.

Large Travel Scarf 

My large scarf turned pareo turned towel turned sun blocker is the one item that never leaves me – come summer or winter, and anything in-between. But a long thin scarf is even better in summer as you can use it as a pareo, a beach towel or cover from the sun. My long scarf is really light, which makes it ideal for any trip. The number one item for accessorizing cute summer outfits as well!

No need to spend a lot of money on this scarf, and if you forgot to buy one from home, these long cotton pieces are easy to find in almost every country in Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Here in Tanzania, they are called kangas , but headscarves are everywhere.

Must-Have: Long Scarf

Pick Your Travel Skirt

The best travel skirt is the perfect piece of clothing when traveling to hot weather countries. A long travel skirt protects against the sun during the day and from mosquitoes at night. It’s also the right length when traveling to more conservative destinations.

Last but not least, I sometimes wear it from my chest, transforming the skirt into a casual dress.

High-waist long skirts like the Kate Kasin Beach Skirt are ideal for evening or day outings. I wear it with a simple cotton top for a casual day trip vibe or add a nice shoulder off the top (see below) for a refined look.

Kate Kasin Skirt and Top

Women’s Travel Tops

Perfect for walking the beaches of Zanzibar, a spaghetti top is essential clothing and can be layered with a scarf or under a long-sleeve shirt.

An alternative to spaghetti, a sleeveless top is an excellent addition to wear if you are exploring a city or going out at night for a drink. A top with off shoulder design like this Kate Kasin Summer Top  makes it perfect for an evening out.

The large scarf comes in handy to cover shoulders if need be.

Casual Summer Dresses for Women

Flowers or patterns, colors, beads, or lace will all make for lively summer dresses. The Kate Kasin Retro Summer Dress is a good example of a light yet dress floral dress.

What makes a good travel dress, in my mind, is that it should be lightweight, wrinkle-free, and colorful.

Kate Kasin Summer Dress

Best Travel Shorts: Pantacourts!  

While, in theory, not travel shorts, I actually prefer pantacourts to real short shorts. A highly versatile piece of clothing, a pantacourt (jupe-culotte, capri, or gaucho) is awesome when you need to be active and don’t want to be too hot in a pant or play like the famous scene of Marilyn Monroe over the subway grate. All while being acceptable in some conservative countries since they are under the knees.

I wear mine for short hikes or if we bike through a city.

The design of these pantacourts is usually wide, which makes them breezy and adequate in a conservative culture.

Click here to see the type and costs of these pantacourts

Pantacourt with spaghetti cami top

Lightweight Travel Pants

Regarding travel pants, women can choose from so many different options. Some of the best travel pants for women also depend on your height. As a petite woman, finding the right pant is tricky.

Linen and cotton are your friends in hot, summer temperatures. While these fabrics are not the best quick-dry pants for travel, they are comfortable. And a pant is a must-have for evenings against mosquitoes, insects, and dirt. The length under the ankle might be required when visiting some religious monuments, so if you don’t have a skirt or a sarong to cover down, make sure to pack loose-fitting pants.

Why bootcut? Well, stay away from form-fitting pants that might be too revealing, and bootcut style is usually a straightened design.

Click here to find the prices of these linen pants

Best Travel Shirts

Lightweight travel shirts come in short and long sleeves. For Africa and other hot weather countries, I prefer a long-sleeve shirt. Indeed, to protect against the sun or insects, long sleeves are recommended. Loose tops are usually airier and would work well in summer. A button-down shirt might have the extra benefit of being used as an evening layer when you wear it over a spaghetti or cami top.

Large Brimmed Hat

Beware of the sun and insolation! I am sensitive to the sun, and a hat is a must-have for me. I have a cap when we do outdoor activities, but I prefer a wide-brimmed hat for simply exploring the city.

Wide Brimmed Hat

Open-Toe Sandals

I usually wear Teva Sandals or my hiking boots when we go to the mountains, but I was looking for open-toe sandals with a softer look. Many sandals have skinny soles, which tend to become uncomfortable after a short walk. So I prefer shoes with thicker soles that provide better support and prevent pain. They tend to be more expensive, but nothing worse than bad shoes to turn your trip into a nightmarish experience.

Summer Sandals

Check these sandals: Taos Trophy 2 Sandals | Clarks Leisa Sandals | Taos Beauty 2 Sandals | B.O.C Kesia Sandals | B.O.C Sophina Sandals | Blowfish Granola Fisherman Sandals  | Teva Elzada Sandals

What are your must-go summer travel clothes that you can’t live without? We would love to hear from you, so please share your tips and suggestions!

Kate Kasin gifted us with the summer clothes listed in this blog post. Thank you, Kate Kasin, for the opportunity of featuring your products and brand! Our opinion is our own and is not impacted by this partnership.

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Patricia - Ze Wandering Frogs

Bonjour! I am Patricia Pagenel, the founder with Bruno Chartier of this adventure travel blog - Ze Wandering Frogs, where we share our travel tips and personal experiences from traveling in 50+ countries. We have been on a world trip since 2016, looking for exciting new adventures. Our work has been featured on Viator, National Geographic, Huffington Post, and ASEAN Tourism. Find out more about Ze Wandering Frogs in our About Us, our Portfolio, and Partners that worked with us. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube to explore the world with us and start planning your own itineraries.

July 27, 2019

January 14, 2020 at 1:18 pm

I love Pantacourts too! I used to wear shorter pants, but I agree that these are more versatile if visiting a conservative country. I also like that they can easily be dressed up or down. And the length is perfect for showing off a pair of nice heels 🙂

February 12, 2020 at 9:04 am

Totally agree! Pantacourts are perfect in all conditions! I recently bought another one as my old one was falling apart after wearing it so much!

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• Apparel & Gear

We know firsthand what it’s like to need to scratch that travel itch – so when we need to be prepared but don’t want to overdose on vitamin D, we pack the best warm weather travel gear and get gone. Because every globetrotting woman knows there's nothing worse than bringing home a sunburn, sweat-sopping clothing, and nonstop complaints from the kiddos. So if you've got a hot getaway planned, we've broken down everything you need to get travel-ready and tackle the warm temps.

What features are essential for travel clothing when visiting tropical or hot climates?

What travel clothing items are best for a hot weather excursion.

Not all clothing is made equally, especially under warmer weather conditions. So when you're shopping for outfits for your warm weather adventure, make sure your clothes have these features built in:

Breathability: When you can't catch a cool breeze anywhere, you've just gotta bring your own. Wearing breathable clothing is crucial to avoid overheating or having your whole outfit stick to your bod – no thanks! Title Nine's explore and travel shirts, shorts, and skirts are all made with breathable, odor-resistant fabrics in looser-fitting silhouettes that always pack extra airflow when you need it.

Moisture-wicking: Don't sweat getting sweaty in moisture-wicking short-sleeve t-shirts, tank tops, shorts and pants. Designed to soak up sweat in a snap, you can go from trekking the outdoors to lunch indoors with the A/C blasting without getting clammy. Bonus: they resist wrinkles in a snap.

Quick-drying: Hot climates tend to bring unpredictable weather, so prep for afternoon storms, roadside waterfalls, or sun showers with quick-drying clothes. Title Nine's collection of quick-dry pants, t-shirts, dresses, shorts and skirts shirk moisture like nobody's business, keeping you comfortable all day long.

Built-In UV protection: Applying and re-applying lotions is a sticky, messy pain – so instead, choose sun protective clothes that offer built-in certified UPF protection from the sun. From UPF20 through UPF 50+, Title Nine offers UPF-certified shirts, shorts, hats and more.

Easy care: We don’t have time for ironing, so we look for fabrics that don't wrinkle, are easy to wash, and dry quickly while we're on the move.

BACK TO TOP

Everything Title Nine offers is made to move with women who can't stop, won't stop. Whether we’re trekking across the Sahara, backpacking through Europe or taking the family camping at the beach, every piece is designed to boost women's movement, not hold us back. With sweat and stink control, wrinkle-free fabrics, quick-dry powers, and way more, Title Nine's got the total travel clothing package.

Here are our top picks for clothing, accessories, and travel shoes from our collection so you can pack the ultimate travel-ready outfits. Mix and match the best hot weather travel clothing to fit your style of adventure:

Travel Shirts & Tops: From tanks to long sleeve t-shirts, Title Nine's got your upper half covered, cool, and dry. Our fastest-drying, do-it-all tee, Ravine Short Sleeve Tee works day to night to keep us comfortable without anyone seeing us sweat. Or, go sleeveless with our Anda V Neck Tank Top , made with our moisture-wicking WickID fabric and built in UPF 50 to keep you cool and comfortable, even as the heat keeps rising.

Like a little more coverage? Grab the Moorea Gauze Textured Shirt , a 100% cotton layer-ready top. Roll-up the sleeves when things start to get a little too warm, and keep things casual with this flattering, relaxed fit top.

Pants and Shorts: Your travel pants and bottoms should be just as breathable, lightweight, and comfortable as your tops. Title Nine's travel pants and shorts let you move, stretch, and flex your way–from the trails to town, or from the beach to brunch–without needing a backup.

Planning a river adventure with the family? Go from wet to dry in our Rogue Bottoms (available in both shorts and skorts), made with our soft and sturdy, summer-ready Nimblene fabric. Or, head somewhere tropical in our Slaycation Cropped Pants , made to resist sun, sand, water, and wrinkles.

Have a hot weather hike planned? Our Switchback Ultralight Hike Joggers were made for trekking through the tropics, featuring a four-way stretch fabric boosted with DWR, quick-dry superpowers, and seven pockets (for all your go-to trail snacks, obviously).

Want to keep it comfy on the flight there and back? Grab a pair of soft, wicking Nebula High-Waisted Pocket Leggings for the ride.

Quick-drying: Who says you can't have stylish travel clothes? Title Nine's active dresses and skirts add a flattering touch to your travel outfits, while still beating the heat. Take our Round Trip Dress – with versatile styling, hidden pockets, and wrinkle-resistant Nimblene™ stretch fabric that's easily packable, hand washes easy, and dries super fast.

Wear any tee or tank with our Samba Swing Skort , an A-Line skirt with built-in shorts, hidden pockets, and a softer-than-soft fabric that packs some much-needed airflow.

Accessories: Every travel capsule wardrobe has the ultimate travel-friendly accessories, like hats, sunglasses, and scarves. Title Nine's warm weather ready gear has all the sweat-fighting, heat-beating capabilities as our clothing.

Shoes and Sandals: Leave the flip-flops at home and bring along some travel-ready shoes that'll keep your feet moving with no complaining. The best walking sandals for travel should provide adjustability, technical comfort footbeds, water-friendly materials and more. Title Nine offers a curated selection of some of the best walking shoes for travel, including athletic shoes, sneakers and breathable, comfortable sandals for your next excursion.

If hot weather's in the forecast for your upcoming trip, pack clothes that don't just look good, but feel good and perform even better in warmer weather. Look for fabrics that check all the boxes–breathable, temperature-regulating, sweat-wicking, odor-resistant, and quick-dry–that pack light, resist wrinkles, and transition from one activity to the next, day to night. From lightweight, abrasion-resistant hike pants, to beach-ready, moisture-wicking dresses, Title Nine has everything women need to beat the heat (and look like a badass doing it).

What are the best materials for women's travel clothes that are suitable for hot and humid conditions?

What types of clothing are best suited for warmer weather: dresses, shorts, or pants.

• What features should I look for in women's travel clothes that are designed for hot weather, such as moisture-wicking or sun protection?

How can I pack light and still have enough space for my travel outfits?

What colors are best for women's travel clothes in hot weather, such as light or dark shades, what are the best types of footwear to pair with women's travel clothes in hot weather, such as sandals or sneakers, how can i stay comfortable and cool during hot weather activities such as hiking or sightseeing, what are the most important considerations when selecting women's travel clothes for destinations with high humidity, are there any special cleaning or care instructions for women's travel clothes that are designed for hot weather conditions.

• Can women's travel clothes that are designed for hot weather be worn in other settings, such as for casual wear or outdoor activities?

What are the most important factors to consider when selecting clothes for a beach vacation?

What are some of the most popular trends in women's travel clothes for hot weather destinations, how can i create a versatile wardrobe for hot weather travel with a limited budget, what are some tips for layering women's travel clothing in hot climates.

The best materials to look for when shopping for travel outfits include breathable, lightweight fabrics like cotton, polyester, and spandex. Title Nine's collection of warm-weather clothing performs exactly how you'd need it to in hot, humid conditions, keeping you cool, comfortable, and dry. Below are the best fabrics to tackle the high temps, only available at Title Nine:

• WickID™ Super good wicking that dries 4x faster than cotton. A zap-drying fabric that sits softly on our skin and emerges wrinkle-free from our pack. It's our ultra-breathable fast-drying poly, odor-shirking Tencel™, infused with drirelease® performance fibers that dramatically improve how wetness is pulled from the skin and released into the air. Shop WickID breathable clothes .
• Buttah™ The year-round soother that washes and wears like a dream. Our soft blend of wrinkle-resistant and wash-and-dry-ready poly/spandex. Shop Buttah wrinkle free travel clothes .
• Matahari™ The double agent performance fabric that plays both sides and wins. Working and playing in overtime, Matahari™ goes from sweaty to ready in a snap. Our UPF 35 poly/spandex with StinkStopper™ odor blocking means more adventures and less laundry. Shop Matahari anti-odor clothing .
• Nimblene™ Amphibious in nature, allowing us to move quickly from river to trail, from wet to dry: the heavy hitting, surprisingly sturdy lightweight fabric that’s summer-ready. Our fast-drying, springy, stretch woven poly/spandex that’s certified UPF 50 to boot. Shop Nimblene quick dry clothing .
• ClambR™ Our abrasion-resistant, water-repellent, stretch nylon/spandex fabric. Soft, but rugged enough for every adventure urban to outback. Shop ClambR water repellent fabric clothes .

There's really no wrong answer here. As long as your travel wardrobe consists of the performance-ready fabrics and materials, whatever you choose to wear should be good to go. If you like a little extra breeze, wear shorts, dresses, and sleeveless tops. But if you're traveling where the fashion is more modest, go with lightweight, breathable travel pants and sweat-wicking t-shirts.

What features should I look for in women's travel clothing that are designed for hot weather?

The must-have features in every traveler's outfit include sweat-wicking powers, built-in UPF protection (because who wants to keep reapplying all day?), and a lightweight, loose fit on the body for max breathability.

The best way to keep your carry-on from overflowing is to bring outfits that pack down small or roll up tidy and resist wrinkles so us women can keep movin' along.

You might've heard to avoid black t-shirts and pants when traveling to hot, dry, or tropical destinations. While this isn't entirely wrong, what really helps you keep cool and comfy through the heat are those performance fabrics. The color of your clothing doesn't really matter if the materials are made to stand the higher temperatures. So, wear what you want! Just make sure your outfit's built to beat the heat.

“I love hot, sweaty feet!” said no one ever. Traveling to hot climates calls for appropriate foot wear to match. Headed somewhere tropical? Bring along a pair of water-resistant sandals, like the Teva Hike Out Sandal, or sneakers with a cushy footbed that make 12,000 steps feel like 20. Taking a walk through the ancient ruins in the heat of the summer? Pack the sneakers that go with every outfit: The Satorisan Boomerang Sneaker, with a sole that loves to wander and durable, sustainable materials all throughout.

If you're planning to spend your whole day outside, make sure your outfit has all the features you need to stay cool and comfortable. Got a hike on the itinerary? Pack along a pair of lightweight, abrasion-resistant pants or shorts, like our Recycled Clamber Hiking Pants. Taking it to the streets? Grab a versatile, breathable travel dress, like our Round Trip Dress for an outfit that transitions from day to night with no sweat.

Humid destinations pack more moisture than you might be used to, so the most important feature to look for from your clothing is that moisture-wicking capability. It keeps the moisture in the air off your skin without getting your outfit soggy.

Not all fabrics follow the same cleaning methods, so always check the care instructions on your clothing before washing. The dryer is known to ruin the performance materials that make our travel wardrobe hot weather ready, so as a general rule of thumb, always air dry your travel clothing.

Can women's travel clothes designed for hot weather be worn in other settings, such as for casual wear or outdoor activities?

Yep, you can wear your travel outfits anywhere you want. They're built to be versatile, so they're tough enough for outdoor activities like hiking, but still casual enough to fit right in at the local tavern, at the farmer's market, or at the neighborhood block party.

Beach vacations usually mean tons of humidity and a potential storm or two. So if you're packing for a warm, tropical getaway, make sure your dresses, shorts, pants, and tops all have moisture-wicking abilities and dry on the fly. Whether you're taking a walk on the beach or trekking through the rainforest, keep the water and humidity off your clothes and off your bod. Oh yeah, and don't forget your swimsuit!

Comfort is key when traveling to warmer destinations. But the most popular styles for warmer destinations we've seen include dresses, jumpsuits and rompers, and skorts. With features like hidden pockets, sweat-wicking powers, and adjustable straps and waistbands, Title Nine's dresses, jumpsuits, and bottoms have everything you need to look and feel your best

If style and function are the two must-haves from your travel wardrobe, look for travel-friendly outfits that are both versatile and made with performance materials that keep you cool under warmer temperatures. Title Nine's travel-ready clothing comes in tons of colors and prints to suit your style, without slacking on performance.

A versatile wardrobe consists of–you guessed it–versatile clothing! Before throwing anything in your carry-on, make sure you're packing versatile pieces. Travel dresses and jumpsuits that can go from day to night, shorts that go from wet to dry, and tops that stay wrinkle-free are all versatile pieces to include in your suitcase.

The only layers you'll really need in a warmer destination include comfy underwear, sweat-wicking socks, a light rain jacket, and maybe a pair of leggings from the flight to and fro. Title Nine's travel clothing have all the features you need to dress smarter; like built-in shorts with pockets in our skorts, built-in shelf bras in every dress, and packable jackets that take up zero space in your carry-on.

CONTRIBUTING T9 Hiking GEAR EXPERT

Molly Hanks, Merchant

Mom, competitor, triathlete and adventure trail runner, Molly has been the resident Women’s Travel Gear Expert at Title Nine. She not only leads and manages wear testing across the entire line, but also works with our in-house product development team and women across the industry to uncover and adopt the features most important to us when traveling wherever in the world it may be regardless of activity or sport.

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The Best Warm Weather Travel Gear for Women

Speed Racer Tunic Dress

Recycled Clamber 2.0 Hiking Shorts 5"

Wahine Swim Shorts - Solid

Henerala V Neck Tank

Vibe Tank Top

Lehua Bikini Bottom - Solid

Maverick V Neck Tank Top

Dogtown Shorts 4"

Anda V Neck Tank Top

Rogue Shorts 5"

Scout Ripstop Shorts 5"

Recycled Clamber 2.0 Hiking Capris

Scout Ripstop Shorts 3"

Recycled Clamber 2.0 Hiking Shorts 10"

Dogtown Shorts 10"

Scout Ripstop Skort - Solid

Yasumi Tank Top

Maverick Pocket Tee

Ravine Muscle Tank - Solid

Recycled Clamber 2.0 Hiking Skort

Yasumi Short Sleeve Top

Flora Skort

Rogue Shorts 9"

Samba Swing Skort

Set It And Forget It Halter Bikini Top

Rogue Skort

Undercover Short 4"

Headlands Ribbed Tank Top

Baja Shorts 3"

Upland Long Sleeve Sun Shirt

Sunbuster 1/4 Zip Cap Sleeve Hoodie - Textured

Set It And Forget It Halter Tankini Top

Sunbuster Full Zip Hoodie - Solid

Majestic Skort - Cocoa Bean

Upland Sleeveless Sun Shirt

Notton Racerback Tank Top - Colorblock

Slaycation 2.0 Cropped Pants - Textured Petite

Dune 2.0 Dress

Crusher Maxi Dress

Flora Skort - Tulip Bloom

Slaycation 2.0 Cropped Pants - Textured

Notton Baseball Tee

Evergreen Hiking Skort

Amelia Short Sleeve Dress

Recycled Clamber Cargo Hiking Shorts 5"

Moorea Gauze Sleeveless Top

Bonfire Hoodie Dress

The Best Lightweight Travel Clothing for Hot Climates

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Although a bit overwhelming, choosing the best travel clothes for hot climates does not have to be hard. There are many options when choosing the best travel clothing for hot and humid climates but you’ll want to make sure you choose the right fabrics, colors and shapes for your body type, activities and destination. Breathable fabrics and garments crafted from moisture-wicking fabric are perfect for the great outdoors and active adventures but there are also stylish clothing options for less active adventures that still keep you cool in hot destinations. Knowing what to look for will help you choose the right clothing and avoid costly and sweaty mistakes.

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You can start checking off your  warm weather packing list  after you decide where you are going and what activities you plan to do. In this packing guide, along with plenty of suggestions, and convenient shopping links, I’ll share useful fabric knowledge to help you choose the best lightweight travel clothing for you!

Table of Contents: Jump to

Fiber Content

Fiber content in clothing refers to “the materials or fibers that make up the fabric or textile used to create the garment.” -The Textile Glossary

When finding the best lightweight travel clothing for hot climates, it’s essential to look at the fiber content label to know what the garment is actually made out of. Fabrics can sometimes look and feel the same on the outside, but their fiber content (treatment or construction) may be entirely different, which means their performance will be different. Reading the content label and understanding fabric characteristics is the best way to choose appropriate clothing for hot climates. The fiber label is usually sewn into the side seam or attached to the neck label of each garment, in most countries it is required by law. 

Fabric Characteristics

Once you know what the garment is made out of, it is important to know how that fabric preforms. 

Most fabric falls under two main categories, Synthetic (man-made) or Natural. Some fabrics are a combination of both natural fibers and man-made fiber. Each type of fabric has their own advantages and disadvantages.

The Most Common Natural Fabrics

• Cotton – Breathable, lightweight and hypo allergenic. It is easy to care for but absorbs moisture easily, can loose its shape and dries slowly. 
• Linen – Linen is light and airy and dries quicker than cotton. It is very breathable but does wrinkle easily. It is one of the most popular summer fabrics.
• Silk – Very lightweight and drapes easily but is delicate, hard to care for and shows sweat easily. 
• Wool – Very durable and breathable and has natural moisture wicking properties. It is wrinkle and odor resistant but prone to shrinkage and can be itchy in warm weather.

Natural fabrics are great for hot summer days and casual wear outfits including breathable pants, loose fitting tops, and breezy dresses with a stylish look. 

Most Common Synthetic Fabrics (Semi-Synthetic)

• Rayon- Often used to replace silk and cotton. It is lightweight and drapes well but only moderately breathable. 
• Polyester – Wrinkle resistant and easy to care for but it traps moisture and is prone to odor.
• Nylon -What most bathing suits are made out of. Stretches easily, is durable and drys quickly.

Synthetic materials are great for athletic clothing and outdoor activities where you’ll be sweating. They help to pull moisture away from the skin and keep you dry. This is why if you are running or hiking in cold weather you should never wear cotton underwear or base layers. Cotton will trap body moisture and keep it close to your skin making you colder.

The Best Fabric for Hot and Humid vs Hot and Dry Climates

Loose-fitting clothing and breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen are the best choices for staying cool in hot, humid weather. However, when choosing apparel to wear in warm weather, it is essential to select fabrics right for the type of activity you are doing and the type of heat you are experiencing. 

Humidity means more sweating, so depending on your activity, you may opt for tighter fitting, wicking clothing (summer wool or tech-polys) over naturally absorbent materials. In some cases, cotton is preferred for its natural cooling abilities, although it will become wet and heavy with excess moisture and eventually make you cold. 

If you are an avid hiker, you probably have heard the popular rule of thumb “Cotton Kills.” Most hikers avoid cotton because of its absorbency, slow drying, and failure to regulate body temperature.

Garment Fit, Construction, and Design

In addition to fiber content and fabric characteristics, garment fit, construction, and design are important variables to pay attention to while choosing the best lightweight attire for warmer climates.

• Fit -if you are planning to be active moisture-wicking clothing is best. Make sure it fits tight or it won’t be able to do its job.
• Construction – Breathability increases with looser weaves and open knits; while tighter knits or weaves create less breathable fabrics.
• Design – Mesh cut-outs, zippered air vents, retractable collars, and sleeves are designed into garments to improve features such as UV ray protection and breathability.
• Colors-  Light-colored clothes are best in hot and humid climates. Dark colors asorbe the sun’s heat while light colors help reflect the sun’s rays. 

Pro Tip: D.I.Y garment breathability test; in a well-lit room, hold the garment up and see how much light passes through. More light=more breathability.

UPF Protection + Performance Clothing

Hot temps usually mean intense sun, which is best taken in moderation to prevent sunburn, wrinkles, and premature aging. Living in Florida, with a fair complexion and freckles, I always do my best to protect my skin from too much sun exposure. Lightweight clothing with a UPF factor is a great way to enjoy the sun while blocking UV rays. Although all fabrics have a level of UV protection, not all fabrics are UPF protectant. Elements such as weave, stretch, wetness, color, and finishes determine how well a garment will protect you from the sun. 

Columbia’s PFG Tamiami   shirts are my go-to sun-blocking and moisture-wicking shirts when spending the day outside in the hot sun, especially on a boat. They come in so many colors, are lightweight, quick-drying, and easy to throw on when you start to feel the burn, plus they are wrinkle-resistant, which makes them great for traveling!

I am also a fan of  Patagonia’s tech-tee line  Capilene® Cool .   This is their “most versatile performance knit for use on trails or the water.” This tech-tee provides 50+ UPF sun protection and HeiQ® Fresh durable odor control. Their styles range from tanks, and short sleeve tees to long sleeve hoodies and are available for men, women, and children.

Merino-wool clothing: For really active trips or long hiking days, summer wool is becoming more and more popular. Gone are the days of merino-wool being a cold-weather garment only. With its moisture-wicking, breathing, and odor-fighting natural properties, merino wool has now evolved into a year-round staple. Wool is also wrinkle resistant so it is another great option for traveling.

SmartWool   and  WoolX  do a great job creating high-performance clothing for all seasons. Merino wool is more costly than its polyester competitor but well worth the money if you want something that works well and lasts. Wool can be itchy- it never bothers me in cold weather but make sure you get fine, high quality merino wool (like Smartwool or WoolX) to wear in warm weather.

Some popular performance brands :

• Under Armour ISO Chill® – Helps disperse body heat to provide cooling power.
• Patagonia Capilene® Cool -Patagonia tech tees keep you comfortable when you’re working hard in conditions ranging from cool to hot.
• Cotton Incorporated Trans DRY® – Combines the comfort of cotton with moisture-wicking performance that rivals any competitive fiber in the market.
• WoolX- Some wool can be itchy but the wool tops I have from wool

Fashionable Clothing for Hot Climates

If you are on vacation you may want a few fashionable pieces for a day on the beach a night out.

I look for lightweight and loose-fitting pieces in breathable fabrics for these types of occasions. I prefer to allow a bit of airflow to help cool me off in hot climates and love cotton and linen blends.

Some of the best travel pants are these linen pants from Athleta . They also come in joggers .

Bathing Suits and Cover-Ups

Andie Swim is my new favorite bathing suit company. They have many full and moderate coverage suits that pair great with shorts making it easy to go from the beach to a restaurant.

Long sleeve suits are quickly becoming a staple in my swim draw, For one, it’s the best way to avoid using sunscreen.

Pro Tip: Long sleeve bathing suits are great for wearing under a wet suit when scuba diving. They help the wetsuit glide on and off your body without riding up like a rash guard.

Hot Weather Accessories

From wide-brimmed hats to sunscreen and cooling devices consider these items when packing for hot weather to help you stay cool.

Popular Questions:

How do i avoid wrinkled clothing while packing.

• Use sheets of tissue paper between clothing and roll rather than fold or lay flat.
• Roll multiple garments together keeping the most prone to wrinkles garment on the outside
• Use Dry cleaner bags to wrap each outfit in before packing
• Once at your destination hang all clothing immediately
• Hang garments in the bathroom while taking a hot shower. Make sure doors are closed so the garment can absorb the moisture to help remove stubborn wrinkles.
• Pack a portable travel steamer with you

Pro  Tip:   Never fold linen! If you have to, fold it along its seams and hang as soon as possible. It will produce deep wrinkles if folded into luggage for long periods of time. Laying flat is the best option, and rolling is the 2nd best option to avoid wrinkles as best as you can.

How do I pack light

• Bring essentials and basics that can be mixed and matched to form more outfits
• Use accessories to change the look of an outfit
• Bring only a weeks worth of clothing and plan to wash it for longer trips
• Bring less shoes and wear your bulkiest pair (that goes for bulky jackets too)

How can I wash clothes on the go?

• Hand wash delicates in a sink with mild detergent
• Consider using laundry detergent sheets for easy packing and no surprise leakage
• Try using a portable wash kit like the Scrubba Wash Bag for on the go washing

What are the best fabrics for extreme heat?

• In extreme heat make sure to protect your skin from the sun. Skip the tank tops and short sleeve tops and opt for lightweight breathable long-sleeve tops instead. 
• Performance material in light colors is best for active days when you may be sweating.
• For fashionable frocks, the best materials to wear in extreme heat are lightweight fabrics including cotton, silk blends and linen. Opt for lightweight pants, a loose fitting tops or a loose fitting maxi dress allowing for airflow. Pair your outfits with a wide-brimmed hat and sunnies for a complete fashionable look.

I hope this post gives you more insight on how to choose the best lightweight clothing for any hot and humid get-a-way. The biggest takeaways should be to choose the right lightweight and breathable fabrics for your preferred activities in light colors. Enjoy your vacation!

If any of these products are a great fit for you, I am extremely grateful for your support by purchasing from the included links. As an Amazon Associate, my blog earns a small commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you -thank you for your support!

Additional Packing Guides:

The perfect Carry on Packing list- Travel Essentials Only | The Perfect Summer Iceland Packing List | 13 Practical items you don’t want to Car Camp without | 49 Essentials for a road trip packing list you shouldn’t leave home without

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Best travel clothing to beat the heat

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With record high temperatures across the U.S. and Europe, travelers are trying to find the best ways to beat the heat. And here at TPG we know the clothes you wear are important when it comes to keeping you cool — both mentally and physically — in the face of stifling temperatures, airport meltdowns and other challenges this summer.

Experts recommend wearing loose-fitting, light-colored clothes and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your skin from the sun. For packing and style, it's also good to bring outfits that are versatile — such as those that could be worn both on the beach and later in a restaurant — and are easy to clean.

Keeping your wardrobe to a minimum can help you reduce checked bags . It might even allow you to travel with just a carry-on — an important strategy in this summer of luggage chaos .

Here are the summer travel clothes TPG staffers and frequent travelers recommend for optimal fit, versatility and the ability to keep you cool.

If you're planning on purchasing any of these items on Amazon, consider using the Prime Visa to get 5% cash back, or try one of the other TPG recommended credit cards for Amazon purchases.

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Shirts, skirts and pants

The mainstays of a travel wardrobe — including durable shirts, skirts and pants — can be challenging to find for summertime. You want something that is light and cool but also sturdy enough to handle the rigors of travel. For instance, clothes that can serve as a cover-up at a pool bar might not be appropriate (or warm enough) for dining in an excessively air-conditioned restaurant at the hotel. Here are some recommendations that can keep you cool and serve multiple purposes for summer travel.

Skirt: Ripskirt Hawaii Quick Wrap Cover-up

This multi-purpose skirt gets good reviews for being both presentable and practical, making it easy to put on for a quick transition from the pool into the hotel restaurant. The skirt is lightweight but not so delicate that it can't handle repeated use on trips. It is easily wearable and breathable to keep you cool for summer city tours and walks along the beach.

Pants for men: Black Diamond Men's Alpine Pant

These lightweight pants were designed for hiking, but they look nice enough to serve a second purpose as a dinner outfit. I've enjoyed their comfort, breathability and stretchability which make them good both for sitting on long flights and for long walks around town. As a bonus, the pants have light waterproofing to keep you dry in a summer drizzle or if you, say, spill something on them at a bar.

Shorts for men : DUER Men's No Sweat Short

If you want to wear something trendier than just basketball shorts to keep cool when traveling, try DUER Men's No Sweat Short. These shorts may not completely eliminate sweat, but the Tencel lining combined with the cotton-spandex blend wicks away moisture and adds to their breathability. The spandex makes the shorts flexible for climbing trails or city steps, and they even have security flaps in the pockets to help foil pickpocketers that may hang around tourist sites.

Women's pants: LNX Women's Linen Pants

Linen pants have long been a choice for cooler summer wear, but they have a reputation for wrinkling in suitcases. LNX offers an affordable option for casual linen pants that are versatile enough for country tours and can be dressed up for dining out at night. The cotton-linen blend tends to wrinkle less. Everlane linen pants are another option that has served TPG photo editor Emilia Wronski well. "I've taken mine traveling several times since purchasing in April and the wrinkles mellow out pretty quickly," she says.

Shirts : Vapor Apparel Women's Sun Protection Hoodie

While wearing a long-sleeved hoodie in the heat of a summer day might seem counterintuitive, keeping your skin shielded from the sun, particularly if you're fair-skinned, can keep you cooler and prevent devastating sunburns. As a bonus, long-sleeved shirts can help protect you from voracious bugs on early summer mornings or evenings.

Vapor Apparel's Sun Protection hoodie is a very lightweight and breathable option for summer travels; the thin fabric packs down easily in bags but doesn't look wrinkled upon wearing. RipSkirt also makes popular lightweight summer long-sleeved shirts for sun protection.

Underclothes

Underwear for men: ExOfficio Give-N-Go Boxer Briefs

I've sworn by these lightweight moisture-wicking briefs as a hot weather choice for years. Although I haven't gone to the ExOfficio advertised extreme claim that you "only need two pairs to travel for weeks," I have found these comfortable to wear on hot days, whether walking around a city or hiking into the mountains. They're easy to wash in a hotel sink, quick drying for repeat usage and durable for repeat trips.

Underwear for women : ExOfficio also has a line of women's underwear and bras, while Patagonia Barely bras and underwear garner high reviews from TPG's Katie Genter. "They dry quick, don't smell and feel fine in the heat and humidity," she says.

Widebrim sun hat : Leotruny super wide brim sun hat

One of the best ways to beat the heat (or at least protect yourself from it) is to wear a proper head cover. Experts recommend something that has a wide brim to protect your face and neck from the blazing rays of the sun. Leotruny makes both men's and women's styles of wide-brimmed bucket hats; they are foldable and packable but still provide great coverage from the sun when lounging at the beach or going on a walking tour.

Another similar sunhat option is sold by Baggu. "I recently purchased a packable hat from Baggu for a trip to wine country," TPG's Claire Loyet says. "It was great because it folds up small enough to fit in a purse/tote/backpack."

Walking shoes: Hoka Bondi 7

I've long been a fan of Hoka's extra-cushioned shoes for running, hiking and just walking around town. They're a godsend for anyone like myself with chronic knee problems. The Bondi 7 shoes have mesh tops for breathability and great padding as well as support to reduce impact and provide stability on long walks on European cobblestone streets. The black-colored Bondis are subtle enough to wear to a restaurant or an evening out, although you're probably not going to win any fashion awards with them.

Allbirds shoes are a popular pick among TPG staffers, earning high marks for being fashionable, lightweight, and versatile enough to wear for both fitness and style purposes.

Sandals: Birkenstock EVA Sandals

These waterproof Birkenstocks check all the boxes of comfort, versatility and style for summer travels. A cushioned footbed keeps your feet and joints happy, while the sole is solid enough to survive extended walking tours. The waterproof functionality makes them a good choice for pool and beach use. They're more substantial than flip-flops but just as easy to slide on and off.

Note that Americans have a notorious reputation for wearing Birkenstocks with socks in Europe, so if you're going to partake in that trend, be prepared for people to laugh at you.

Related: What are the best travel shoes?

Feature photo by Thomas Barwick/Getty Images.

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30 Ultra-Packable Travel Dresses for Summer

Megan Johnson

Megan is a Senior Editor, SEO for SmarterTravel Media.

Megan started with SmarterTravel Media’s Airfarewatchdog way back in 2008, moved over to FamilyVacationCritic, and finally SmarterTravel in 2021. Originally from Massachusetts, she has lived in Nova Scotia, London, and New York City. She has spent nearly every summer (or at least part of it) on Prince Edward Island. She has started to go out of her comfort zone while traveling- most recently exploring caves and boogie boarding on a FlowRider.

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Dresses: They’re easy to pack, they’re a fashion no-brainer, and they can go from casual to fancy even more easily than pants. That’s why they’re my absolute favorite type of clothing for travel. But you have to pack the right dresses for summer travel—versatile, wrinkle-free, and odor-resistant pieces that rock a travel wardrobe. Here are the best travel dresses for everyone.

Travel Sundresses

Stay cool with these sleeveless travel dresses for summer.

Jack Wolfskin Sommerwald Dress

Be prepared for everything from an impromptu beach day to an outdoor dinner on a hot night with Jack Wolfskin’s Sommerwald Dress . This loose-fitting but not shapeless dress is made from a soft and slightly stretchy fabric that won’t cling but allows for plenty of movement (the integrated belt helps give a custom fit). Made from a quick-drying fabric, this dress is perfect for light packers who handwash their outfits in the hotel room sink. Best of all, the Sommerwald Dress has two roomy pockets.

prAna Ayla Dress

PrAna has a great reputation for sustainable threads that embody comfort and style in your day-to-day life. Right now we’re loving this sundress , which can be a staple on both a summer day at home or a sunny day abroad. With functional pockets and a fabric that can move with you, this comfortable dress is a must-buy.

Everlane The Smock Dress

Everlane’s weekend the smock dress is the ultimate breezy vacation dress. The smocked top with slight stretch and extra thick straps make for ultimate comfort. Pair with some lightweight sandals for a day of sightseeing or dress it up with some heels and accessories for a mid-morning brunch look.

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Elan Cover-Up Slipdress

Ideal for a day on the beach, this swingy dress pulls on and off with ease. The light material adds a breezy comfort to a steamy day and keeps you covered from the boardwalk to the oceanfront.

Zella Live in Rib Dress

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, Zella’s Live in Rib dress is built to be the easiest dress you’ll ever take on the road. With no buttons, zippers, or fasteners, this baby effortlessly slips on like your favorite comfy tee. 

Amazon Essentials Tank Swing Dress

Amazon has a slew of awesome summer travel dresses for all kinds of women. This sleeveless number is a casual, everyday jersey dress that works well for layering, and it’s so comfortable that it would make for a great plane outfit even on a long flight.

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VIISHOW Summer Swing Dress

VIISHOW’s summer swing dress is made from a very cool rayon/spandex knit fabric that’s colorful and easy. Wear this, and you can easily go from the plane to dinner without changing.

Match Point Dress

Be ready for adventure with this lightweight Venture Out Dress from Athleta, which beats out all other dresses for function and fashion. Made for running and hiking, with built-in shorts, this is the perfect option for an active vacation. It is also made from recycled nylon, is moisture-wicking, and has UPF 50+ protection.

Travel Maxi Dresses

Maxi dresses’ longer length protects you from the sun and offers an elegant look, without making you overheat.

REVOLVE Rain Maxi Dress

You won’t believe how unbelievably breezy and cool the Rain Maxi Dress is until you try it on. Made with a trendy thigh-high front slit and an easy pullover design, you can throw this on and be at the beach in seconds.

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Loveappella Maxi Dress

This maxi dress is so perfect for travel that you’ll want to buy one in each of the five colors that it comes in. The jersey fabric is cool, lightweight, easy to pack—and extremely comfortable.

Hard Tail Easy Paloma Dress

Crafted with a blend of cotton and spandex and featuring above-the-knee slits on either side, this sleeveless maxi is a comfortable alternative to the traditional little black dress. Shaping numerous body types in the most flattering way possible, this one’s hard to resist.

Short-Sleeve Travel Dresses

These short-sleeve travel dresses for summer can go from casual to elegant with the right shoes and accessories.

Pact The Mix Tee Dress

The softness of a T-shirt mixed with the convenience of a sundress come together to create this cute but casual T-shirt dress from pact. Though it’s adorable worn as is, the addition of your coziest cardigan completes this look for your next plane ride.

The 10 Most Comfortable Travel Shoes for 2023

Carve Designs Nellie Linen Dress

Carve Designs Nellie Linen Dress is the perfect multifunctional outfit to pack for vacation. Paired with your favorite sandals , this dress is ideal for a a casual day exploring your destination. Pair it with something a little more upscale and you’re ready to head out for the night. 

JollieLovin Women’s T-Shirt Dress

JollieLovin Women’s t-shirt dress has an easy-to-wear, casual silhouette that works with sneakers or sandals. Wear it as is or cinch it with a fashionable tie or belt to dress it up.

eShakti Cotton Knit Midi Wrap Dress

Don’t you hate it when you find a dress off the rack that’s great—except it fits weird? That will never be the case at online retailer eShakti , where you can customize clothing to your specifications. Best of all, it’s shockingly cheap—check out the Cotton Knit Midi Wrap Dress , which is perfect for travel thanks to its cotton/spandex jersey knit fabric.

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Modest Travel Dresses

These modest travel dresses for summer are ideal for visiting destinations where you want to be covered up, but still cool.

Karen Kane V-Back A-Line Maxi Dress

If you’re looking for a modest staple piece, this dress is for you. Truly bringing it back to basics with a soft jersey material and t-shirt fit, you can dress it up or down according to the occasion. For chillier evenings or further coverage, pair with a cozy cardigan or shawl .

Floral Print Puff Sleeve Dress

A quintessential midi with elbow-length sleeves is a classic that will never go out of style. Choosing to keep it modest without the extra lengthy bulkiness is a true plus—you will stay cool all day and won’t have to worry about making much room in your carry-on.

Caslon Long Sleeve Midi Shirtdress

This long-sleeve option is the epitome of a modest summer dress. The olive green color is vibrant enough for daytime but easily transitions to a classy night look.

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Grecerelle Long Sleeve Maxi Dress

This maxi dress has long sleeves, a modest neckline, and pockets—what more do you need? It’s also extremely affordable, so go ahead and get one in every color and print available.

Plus-Size Travel Dresses

These travel dresses are specifically designed for plus sizes.

Karen Kane Floral Print Chloe Dress

Bring in the sunshine with this floral dress from Karen Kane. The light polyester/elastane blend and and sleeveless silhouette will keep you cool in warmer weather and allow for an easy transition to evening wear.

Women’s Short Sleeve A-Line Dress – Knox Rose™

The light, breezy fabric and fluttery sleeves and hemline of this dress make it an instant summer staple. It comes in magenta, navy or an orange floral, and, because you can dress it up and down, this one can be worn at any time of the day.

10 Secret Alternatives to Crowded Summer Destinations

HBEYYTO Women’s Plus Size Maxi Dress

For those days when all you want is to throw on a cozy t-shirt but still want to feel put together, this is the dress to grab. It’s made from 95% rayon, comes in 18 colors and patterns, and —for the best part—it has pockets.

Floral Tiered Babydoll Minidress

It doesn’t get more casual than this minidress and a well-worn pair of Converse . Join the two with a denim jacket and you’ll be ready to face the day in no time.

Amazon Essentials Cap Sleeve Wrap Dress

Whether you’re heading out on a business trip or a beach vacation, you’ll want to pack this dress by Amazon Essentials . This classic style pairs cap sleeves with a tulip hem and wrap style for a polished look.

The 7 Best Travel-Sized Perfumes

Floerns Women’s Boho Floral Print Off Shoulder Dress

This flowy off-the-shoulder dress shows off your shoulders and legs but still leaves a little mystery. It comes in 23 different colors and patterns and is made from a stretchy rayon, so you can stay comfortable while sightseeing and still show off your fashion sense.

Rompers and Jumpsuits for Travel

It seems rompers and jumpsuits are becoming more and more popular with each season, and for good reason. These super comfortable and stylish ones are perfect to throw in your suitcase. 

Spanx AirEssentials Short Sleeve Romper

Stay comfortable and stylish in this light-as-air romper from Spanx. Easily dressed up with a cute sandal, it is super versatile, and with four way stretch, you will love wearing it all day long. Available in regular and plus sizes. 

Happy Sailed Women’s Jumpsuit

Get your wallet ready, because you will want this jumpsuit in all the available 41 colors and patterns it comes in. Flowy, breezy and easy to pull on, this may become your newest wardrobe staple. 

18 Things You Should Always Wear on a Plane

Free People Alice One Piece

You’ll stay cool in this free-flowing jumpsuit from Free People. Available in six colors, it can be dressed up with a dressy, strappy sandal , or add a sweater or button down to take it from the daytime heat into cooler nights. 

City Chic First Date Stripe Plus Sized Romper 

This romper from City Chic   is one of those pieces that whenever you wear it, you will proudly announce that it is actually a romper, not a dress. Super chic, with ruffles and a subtle stripe, it’s perfect for any occasion. 

Flovey Harem Jumpsuit 

Stay comfortable and stylish in this harem style jumpsuit from Flovey. Available in ten fun patterns, you will make a statement and stand out from the crowd when you wear this on your next vacation.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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The Best Travel Clothes and Accessories for Women of 2024

From dresses to sweats to sandals, don’t miss these travel staples.

Rena Behar is a freelance journalist and editor focusing on tech, travel, and gender. She has contributed to Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, and more.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T + L

Travel + Leisure / Kristin Kempa

You’ve booked your ticket, made your restaurant reservations, and now it’s finally time to pack for your big trip. While we’re sure you’ll have a lovely time no matter what you’re wearing, the best travel clothes and accessories for women can help make that long-awaited adventure go just a little more smoothly (and make you look that much better in your photos afterward).

When it comes to a travel wardrobe, we favor versatile, easy-to-pack pieces you can wear all day without having to sacrifice valuable exploring time for an outfit change. Since we’re always testing products here at Travel + Leisure , we’ve included eight options personally tested by our team (we can confirm that our favorite travel pants are squat-approved and that we comfortably walked for more than eight hours in the walking shoes below). Here are some of our favorite travel clothes and accessories, from cashmere sweaters to comfortable sneakers and everything in between.

Best Leggings

Lululemon wunder train high-rise tight.

Smooth fabric, a fit that stays consistent across activities, and excellent comfort put these a cut above other leggings.

They’re a bit thin for cold conditions.

Sometimes you just need a good pair of leggings, and Lululemon’s are at the top of the pack for a reason. We found the Wunder Trains to be form-fitting without feeling constricting, and they feature a drawstring at the waist for extra comfort. They never felt tight even after long flights (and the ensuing bloating) or like they were stretching out too much, and the material is smooth and soft with no pilling in sight. Two hidden pockets stretch enough to hold a phone, headphones, ID, and ticket without any noticeable fit difference. They are on the thinner side, leaving legs a bit chilly in flight but very comfortable in warmer climates. Despite that, we didn’t find any transparency in the fabric at all. We tested the 25-inch inseam, but there are also 23-, 28-, and 31-inch variations available in 15 different colors and sizes that range from 0 to 20.

Best Travel Pants

Libin cargo joggers.

These casual pants move with you and provide comfort in a good range of sizes and colors.

They run tight in the legs and are a bit prone to wrinkles.

These extremely comfortable, breathable, and affordable pants moved with us through constant motion, walks, and long drives during testing. The fabric is incredibly soft, and the pockets are great for storing whatever you want to keep close by, with two large zippered front pockets plus extra cargo pockets and one rear zipped pocket. The stretchy, elastic waistband features a drawstring for extra adjustability, and the ankles have a nice level of elasticity for a jogger style. The pants are on the tighter side fit-wise, so you may want to size up for maximum comfort on long flights, and we also found them to be a bit prone to wrinkles. They do have UPF 50+ sun protection built into the fabric, which is great for sunny destinations. There are 13 colors to choose from and sizes up to 3XL.

Travel + Leisure / Kim Sommerfeldt

Best Packable Jacket

Everlane the renew long liner.

This packable jacket offers the cozy feel of a puffer without the bulk, plus split zippers for extra adjustability.

It’s an oversized style and you might need an extra layer underneath in extra cold conditions.

A long jacket gives any outfit an extra touch of style, so finding a packable one is especially exciting. This quilted jacket from Everlane is easy to pack down into a cube or corner of your bag, and the quilting gives it some extra fluff without making it too large. It didn’t wrinkle even after more than eight hours of being stuffed in a packing cube during our testing period, and the split zipper allows for good ventilation and freedom of movement. The soft collar keeps your neck warm in the wind, and the jacket overall feels like it’s a high-quality build that will last. We felt cozy in a range of temperatures, and the oversized fit makes it easy to layer under on extra frigid days. It comes in four neutral shades (black, olive, brown, and pretty blush) and sizes from XXS to XL.

Best Sweater

Naadam the original cashmere sweater.

This high-quality sweater comes in a wide range of sizes and colors.

The sleeves are designed to run short, and you may need to do some occasional maintenance against pilling.

We love this Naadam sweater for its value and high quality, paired with an extensive range of colors and sizes. Right now there are 21 colors available, with nine core neutrals and a rotating set of limited-edition seasonal shades, and it comes in sizes ranging from XXS to XXL. While we didn't personally test this option, the sweater is made from 100 percent Mongolian cashmere so it will stay soft against your skin. The sleeves are designed to run short for easier layering, though taller shoppers may find this a bit annoying. And like all cashmere, it tends to be a bit high-maintenance, but we think it’s worth the tradeoff.

Best Long-sleeve Shirt

Ibex women's travel henley long sleeve.

Ibex  

This simple shirt is a versatile classic.

We wish there were more color options.

For frequent travelers, it’s hard not to fill your entire wardrobe with merino wool — a naturally moisture-wicking and odor-resistant material — especially when you’re on the road and really don’t want to have to do laundry. This classic henley has great reviews, with seven snaps that let you stay as buttoned-up (or not) as you please while adding some visual interest, and it’s just fitted enough to be flattering without being clingy. The smooth finish of the fabric and flatlock seams keep you comfortable, there are five colors available, and it's even machine-washable (though you will need to line-dry it).

Best Sweats

Aether w foundation hoodie.

These sweats will keep you comfortable but still looking put-together.

There aren’t a lot of colors available, and they’re on the expensive side.

Sometimes when you’re traveling you simply want to take a break and be cozy. Enter the Aether set, one of our favorite matching sets for travel . You’ll be plenty comfortable in the French terry fabric, with touches like raglan sleeves and cover-stitched seams that keep you from looking frumpy. Match the hoodie with either the cropped sweatpants or shorts, which are both made from the same soft French terry cotton and feature a ribbed waistband and flat, braided drawcord with leather tips as a thoughtful touch. Bonus: all of Aether’s products come with a lifetime guarantee.

Quince Tencel Jersey Fit & Flare Dress

This dress is soft, flattering, affordable, and responsibly made.

It may be a bit on the low-cut side for some builds, and we wish it came in a few more colors.

Looking for a travel dress that does everything you need a dress to do and then some? The Tencel material in this model from Quince is super soft and light, as well as sustainably made. The skirt is long enough to comfortably sit down on the train in and get you into religious sites without concern. It's also accented with two side-seam pockets for smaller items. Meanwhile, the fitted top is both flattering and easy to layer, and provides a nice level of shape to the cut. In addition to eco-friendly materials and Global Recycle Standard-certified yarn, it’s also made in Sedex-certified factories that aim to improve working conditions. It’s also affordable enough that you won’t stress out about packing it and machine-washable for easy cleaning.

Best Bathing Suit

Andie the amalfi.

Adjustable straps, a simple but stylish build, and superior comfort put this swimsuit at the top of the list.

It can take a while to dry, but you won’t feel uncomfortable during the process.

Andie’s Amalfi is simple, sleek, and straight to the point, and that’s why it was our top pick for the best overall one-piece in our Best Swimsuits for Women roundup. During testing, we found that the stylish, slim straps provide plenty of support even with their delicate appearance, keeping everything in place even while swimming laps or hitting the beach. It’s comfortable to wear all day, with no digging in from the straps on top or creeping and crawling up from the edges on the bottom, and it stays soft even when saturated. While it isn’t the fastest-drying swimsuit out there, we thought it was still comfortable no matter what level of damp it is. We didn't notice any stretching during drying, either, even after we thre the swimsuit in a dryer. There are also a whole slew of styles to choose from, with smooth, ribbed, and novelty fabrics (for a total of 10 different colors), sizes from XS to 3XL, and even a long torso cut option.

Travel + Leisure / Frances Crouter

Best Crossbody Bag

Baggallini everywhere bagg.

Others We Liked

The Everywhere Bagg boasts a plenitude of pockets as well as a comfortable, adjustable strap and a wide color range.

Some people might prefer a divided main pocket.

If you want a travel bag that will hold nearly everything and the kitchen sink — likely in its own designated pockets — go for the Baggallini Everywhere. This crossbody bag has plentiful pockets that will keep you reaching for it across various trip styles and seasons, as well as a spacious main cavity (some might prefer a divider in there, but we also like that it allows for a variety of organization styles). We thought it was very comfortable to carry thanks to the adjustable strap, which you can shorten all the way up to a shoulder bag. The fabric is also slightly water-resistant, so your belongings won’t get soaked in any unexpected storms. The bag comes with a removable RFID-blocking wristlet, as well as a special phone pocket and sleeve for your luggage trolley. Choose from 10 colors, including standard neutrals, bright reds, prints, and even one with shearling accents.

Vivaia Square-toe Mary Jane

These flats are just as comfortable and supportive as sneakers, while also keeping your feet dry and your outfit looking put-together.

They run narrow, but you can choose to order the wide style.

A comfortable, versatile, and dressy pair of flats can see you through all manner of travel days. This pair from Vivaia was our best overall pick out 29 pairs of flats we tested . They has plenty of room in the square toe so your feet won’t feel squished but also won’t feel like they’re flopping around. The strap across the top helps prevent heel slippage and is perforated all the way through, so you just find your ideal fit wherever it may be. They’re also comfortable right out of the box, almost ridiculously so thanks to the built-in cushioning, as well as extremely breathable. No need to worry about rain, either: our feet didn’t get damp at all in the summer showers during testing. Despite their light weight, these flats feel extremely durable and don’t catch dust or dirt. They even pack flat and won’t take up too much room in your luggage. They are on the narrow side, but the brand offers a separate wide style in three of the six available colors, so there’s a pair for everyone from size five to 11.

Best Walking Shoes

Rykä devotion x.

These absurdly comfortable shoes feel like a firm mattress pad, with perfect levels of breathability, support, and softness.

They’re not the most versatile style, and not everyone likes a roomy toe-box.

When you’re really pounding the pavement, opt for the Ryka Devotion X, which boasts a super-soft inside and supportive outside. We found that they fit extremely well, with a little extra room in the toe-box for wiggle room, and our feet stayed firmly in place while walking without getting a single blister during our testing period. There’s also plenty of support in the sole, with enough spring that it feels like walking on a cloud, providing structure without sacrificing mobility or flexibility. The inside feels like a firm mattress pad, slightly thick and firm, while still giving way underfoot in a way that redistributes weight. The outside is super breathable and feels well-made and sturdy. There are eight colors to choose from in sizes five to 12, as well as both medium and wide widths.

Travel + Leisure / Sahara Borja

Best Hiking Boots

Salomon x ultra 4 mid gore-tex women's.

These ultra-waterproof boots are light enough that they feel like a running shoe.

They don’t have quite enough traction for very advanced hikes.

If your trip involves hitting the trails, pick up a pair of the Salomon X Ultra 4. Despite their sturdy build, they still feel lightweight, almost like a pair of running shoes. Even if you slip in a puddle, your feet will still stay totally dry (ours did, even when tramping through mud and snow). They’ll still look as good as new when you wipe them down after your hike, too. They don’t require any break-in period, which is great for hiking boots, and gave us a perfectly snug fit while still giving toes room to breathe. We experienced some minor slippage on slick surfaces and rocks, but otherwise the traction is good. Choose from four different color options and sizes from five to 11.

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best Sandals

Reef cushion vera cruz slide.

These classic slides are easy to style and feel tailor-made for your feet.

The rings on the top are plastic, not metal, but you likely won’t even notice.

For warm-weather travels, pick up these super-cushioned sandals. The leather on top is soft and pliable, while the sole is contoured and extremely comfortable; they feel like they’ve been contoured to your feet before you even ordered them. They fit us perfectly without feeling too tight across the top of the foot. In fact, they were our best overall pick as the Most Comfortable Women’s Slide for Travel of 2023 .

Contouring around the arch adds a high degree of support, and there’s no slipping on grass, cement, decking, or anywhere else. They’ve also versatile enough to become a staple shoe in your wardrobe. We’ve been wearing them with almost everything, and they come in black, white, and light brown, in sizes five to 11.

Travel + Leisure / Melissa Gray

Best Compression Socks

Levsox compression socks.

These compression socks feel like a miniature massage and are easy to get on.

Almost all of the patterns are very bright.

A long flight or even a long train or car ride will feel much better with a good pair of compression socks . Levsox feels like a mini massage in your arches and heels, without being too difficult to put on. At the end of the day, our feet felt a bit less tired after wearing these, with no swelling or aching in the arches, heels, or calves. These socks are breathable and snug but flexible, like a good pair of tights or leggings — feeling almost silky. They also held up well to washing and drying during our tests. They come in an excellent array of patterns, whether you prefer tie-dye, skeletons, or kittens. They are available in sizes small to extra large and packs that include three or six pairs.

We sorted through results from eight of our T+L tests to find the best of the best in travel pants, packable jackets, swimsuits, flats, walking shoes, hiking footwear, slides, and compression socks. While the exact testing methodologies differed depending on each product, we consistently looked for quality of material and construction, comfort, and performance. We did squats in our travel pants, carried our packable jackets around for two full days, and wore all the shoes for at least two straight hours (often longer) to find our favorites. In addition to the eight products personally tested by us, we also included some research options in this list of clothing and accessories to round out the best products for your next trip.

Tips for Buying Women's Travel Clothes and Accessories

Look for wrinkle-resistant materials.

The last thing you want to do in a hotel room is fiddle with the iron, and no one looks their freshest straight off an airplane. Avoid creating extra work for yourself and look for materials that won’t wrinkle, like wool, denim, or rayon. You can seamlessly wear them on the plane and off. Anything labeled a “knit” is also less likely to wrinkle. However, if you have the space, you can always pack a travel steamer .

Consider packability

Thicker materials will naturally take up more room in your suitcase, as will certain styles (coats are notorious space hogs). Look for lightweight clothing that folds or rolls easily and is made from flexible, softer fabrics. When packing shoes, you'll also want to look for lightweight, shorter options rather than tall, heavy boots unless absolutely necessary. If you do need to take larger or heavier items, you may want to wear them on the plane to optimize space.

Prioritize versatility

You’ve only got so much suitcase space. Rather than going for seven different outfits, why not pack simple tops and bottoms you can mix and match? Keep in mind that you should pack enough underwear for every day of travel , though women can get away with just a couple of versatile travel bras . By choosing outfits that can work between various locations (like a dress you can wear both sightseeing and out to dinner), you’ll save time by not having to go back to your hotel to change between venues. Plus, if your wardrobe is versatile, you'll get more use out of it at home, too.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are two main schools of thought when it comes to packing styles: folding and rolling. When it comes down to it, there isn’t a huge difference between the two. Feel free to alternate — some items of clothing work best with one or the other, but you won’t know until you’ve tried it. Furthermore, compression packing cubes are a great way to maximize space and help you stay organized.

While it seems obvious, the best travel outfit will be something that you like and feel comfortable in. Generally, we prefer darker colors (because they're less likely to show stains or look dingy at the end of a long day); soft, natural fabrics like merino wool that can temperature-regulate and resist odor; and unstructured styles that won't dig into you on a long flight or in small spaces.

It depends on your suitcase, but generally, put your shoes in first. You can stash smaller items of clothing inside your shoes, like socks and underwear. Then, put your shoes in shoe bags (or consider using a hotel room shower cap) if you’re worried about damaging your shoes or getting dirt on the rest of your suitcase. From there, either line them up with the edges of your suitcase or put them in a separate dedicated compartment and build around them. There are also plenty of weekender bags and backpacks with dedicated compartments just for shoes. Meanwhile, you should pack chunkier clothing items like jackets, last in your suitcase, or you can just carry them or wear them on the plane.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Rena Behar utilized her extensive experience as both a traveler and a gear tester to find the best travel clothes and accessories for women to shop right now. She compiled findings from T+L editor testing across eight different product categories and dozens of items, as well as incorporating researched options.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week. 

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The best travel clothes | guide to high-performance & fashionable travel clothing.

We talk about our favorite travel clothing and help you find the perfect travel-friendly clothes to keep you comfortable on the road.

I’ve been a nerd about travel clothes since my first trip to Europe back in 2006—now I have a closet full of travel pants and shirts and jackets (you get the idea). It’s been refreshing to watch travel clothing evolve from hideous outdoorsy gear to stylish clothing made from high-tech fabrics.

In this guide, I’ve gathered some of the most popular travel clothing brands to help you find the best travel clothing so you can stay fashionable and comfortable while traveling.

The Current State Of Travel Clothes

In the old days, travel clothing used to look like this…

But now travel clothing looks like this!

So what’s the deal with travel clothes these days?

I’d argue that the “travel clothing” market hasn’t changed much but the “performance clothing” market is actually what’s pushing the category forward—so these days, I consider travel clothing and performance clothing essentially the same thing.

And it makes sense because many of these new high-performance fabrics offer a ton of benefits that complement both everyday wear and travel.

Even mega-brands like Levis, Gap, Dockers, Lululemon, and Uniqlo are starting to offer fashionable “travel-friendly” or “performance” clothing but small niche brands are pushing the boundaries (which I’ll cover later in this article).

The Good Things About Travel Clothing

Travel clothes are finally being designed to be fashionable and stylish so you can easily wear them in Paris, Milan, or New York without looking out of place.

My #1 travel clothing rule is that I’ll never wear any “travel clothing” that I wouldn’t wear in my everyday life.

Second, high-tech clothes continue to evolve because more companies are developing better fabrics and competition is driving innovation.

The Bad Things About Travel Clothing

Unfortunately, high-tech travel clothing tends to be expensive.

First, many of the fabrics used are high-end so the raw materials are expensive. Second, a majority of travel clothing is made by small companies so they can’t mass produce their products—which pushes prices higher.

Another negative thing about travel clothing is that there are many options for men but fewer for women. This is probably because guys tend to stick to very basic items and they nerd out on “high-tech fabrics more than women.

So what can you expect to pay for travel clothes?

• Nice merino wool socks will be $10-$20/pair
• A pair of travel pants will range from $70-$180+
• A wool shirt will be $50-$100+

Do You NEED Travel Clothing?

Do you really “need” to shell out your hard-earned cash for these high-end garments?

I’ll be the first to say that you certainly don’t need clothes made out of technical fabrics when you travel. Many of these fabrics can make certain aspects of traveling easier and more comfortable… but they’re more of a “nice-to-have” than a “must-have.”

In my opinion, there are a few key pieces that I think deliver a ton of value and there are other items that are more optional — I’ll cover both throughout this article.

The Benefits of Travel Clothes & Performance Wear

What’s so great about travel clothing? Let’s take a look…

Durability & Multi-Day Wear

One of the main benefits of travel clothing is that you can wear them multiple times without having to wash them. This means you can pack fewer items so you can travel lighter.

Odor-Resistance

Many of the fabrics used in travel clothes have anti-odor properties. Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant but some synthetic materials are manufactured in a way to reduce odor.

Quick-Drying Abilities

If you plan on washing your clothes while you’re traveling it’s nice to have items that can be hand-washed and air-dried quickly (i.e. washing your socks and underwear in the sink). Quick-drying fabrics can also be beneficial if you get caught in the rain.

Wrinkle-Resistance

While it’s hard to completely prevent wrinkles when you’re living out of a suitcase, many materials have anti-wrinkle properties. In general, synthetic materials resist wrinkles better than natural fabrics but it depends on the fabric.

Lightweight & Packability

Performance fabric tends to be lightweight so it won’t weigh down your luggage as much — for example, a pair of tech pants will weigh half as much as a pair of jeans. Lightweight fabric also tends to dry quicker than something like cotton jeans which absorb water.

Moisture Wicking & Breathability

One of the most important factors in keeping comfortable is keeping dry. Moisture-wicking fabric helps pull sweat away from your skin and its breathability lets the moisture escape from the fabric.

Stretch and Comfort

Every fabric will have a different amount of stretch. Unsurprisingly, fabric with more stretch tends to be more comfortable since it allows you to move with less restriction.

But you’re always making a compromise when it comes to stretch because, in general, you sacrifice durability/water-repellency for stretchability.

Water Repellency

Certain fabrics are naturally water-repellent and others have chemical coatings which help keep water from soaking into the fabric. In my opinion, water repellency isn’t super high up on my “must-have” list (unless it’s a rain jacket) but it’s a nice bonus.

Note: The chemical water-resistant coatings aren’t permanent so they will become less effective the more the garment is washed.

High-Tech Performance Fabrics Explained

There are multiple different types of fabrics that travel clothing companies use to make their products. There is a lot of nuances and technical/marketing mumbo jumbo when it comes to each fabric but we’ll start with the three main fabric categories — natural fabrics, synthetic fabrics, and natural/synthetic blends.

Natural Fabrics

There are a handful of natural fabrics but the most common are merino wool and cotton.

Merino Wool

The best kind of natural fabric is fine merino wool because it has many natural benefits. Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant, soft, fairly durable, wicks moisture well, dries quickly, and works well in both hot and cold weather.

However, merino wool does have some downsides. First, it’s expensive so even a “cheap” merino wool t-shirt will cost around $50.

Second, thin wool has a tendency to develop holes much more quickly than a more robust fabric like cotton or synthetics.

And third, most wool can’t go in the dryer since heat will make it shrink so it does require a little extra care.

Cotton Should Be Avoided

Most travelers highly recommend avoiding cotton when it comes to travel clothing because cotton holds moisture and doesn’t dry quickly. For example, a cotton pair of socks will trap sweat which will cause odors, blisters, and sweaty feet.

That said, I’m not as militant when it comes to wearing cotton so I still wear cotton jeans and t-shirts. However, I still generally avoid cotton for socks and underwear.

Synthetic Fabrics

Things get a little more complicated when it comes to synthetic fabrics because there are dozens of different variations and each has different performance properties.

That said, synthetic fabrics are usually much cheaper to manufacture but some of the high-end technical fabrics are still expensive.

Synthetic fabrics are very durable, they can be highly water-repellent or even waterproof, many resist wrinkles, they dry very quickly, and they’re lightweight. Some synthetic materials also have a lot of flex so they’re comfortable to wear.

However, there are some negatives. First, synthetic fabrics can become smelly after one or two wearings. Some synthetic fabrics are treated with anti-odor chemicals so that helps.

Next, cheap synthetic fabrics have an ugly “synthetic sheen” and feel fake. Most of these cheap synthetics also make that “swish swish” sound when you walk. Advanced synthetic fabrics can look and feel very similar to natural fabrics but these fabrics are expensive — so you’ll have to pay if fashion is a concern.

Some cheap synthetics also don’t breathe well so they can get pretty balmy in the heat. That’s why you should look for “breathable” fabrics.

Another issue with synthetics is fabric flexibility. The most durable fabrics tend to not have very little flexibility. So if you’ll have to sacrifice a bit of durability for comfort in some instances.

Natural/Synthetic Blends

Travel clothing brands are starting to combine fine merino wool and synthetic fabric to give you the best of both worlds — performance and durability. I heard from someone in the wool industry that there is no performance loss as long as the blend includes at least 70% wool.

You’ll usually see blends in socks, underwear, and shirts.

The Best Travel Clothes and Recommended Travel Clothing Brands

Okay, okay… calm down. I’ve broken down each type of garment (socks, underwear, pants, shirts, etc.) into its own section.

I’ve tried giving specific recommendations when possible (and I’ll try my best to keep the recommendations up-to-date), but sometimes I can only point you towards companies that make tech-wear travel clothes.

I will also do my best to recommend options for all budgets since I know not everyone wants to drop $100 on a t-shirt.

Socks for Travel

In my opinion, a few nice pairs of socks (along with comfortable shoes) are the most important travel accessory. So, if you have a limited clothing budget, spend it on socks.

Boring, I know… but it will be your best bang for the buck

Fine merino wool socks are my favorite and preferred style of socks. Merino wool socks with a bit of synthetic material also work well because the synthetic fibers help the socks keep their shape/fit.

From my experience, 100% synthetic socks aren’t great but they’re not terrible.

Avoid cotton socks if you can.

Obviously, you’ll want to match your socks to the season — i.e. thin, no-show socks for the summer and longer/heavier socks for colder weather.

My Favorite Sock Brands:

• Smartwool : The most famous wool sock company. They offer just about every style. Check Amazon to see what’s available.
• Darn Tough Vermont : Darn Tough socks are made in the USA and they offer a lifetime warranty so that’s awesome. Check Amazon to see what’s available.
• Unbound Merino : This small company makes merino wool basics but we really dig their all-season ankle socks. They don’t contain as much wool as we’d like but this helps keep the cost down. Check them out at Unbound .
• Farm To Feet : This is another 100% USA company that makes a small but quality range of wool socks. Take a look at Amazon to see their offerings.
• Wigwam : Wigwam makes both merino wool and synthetic socks. While they’re not our favorite socks, their prices are pretty good so they’re worth checking out if you’re looking to save a little money. Check Amazon .

Travel Underwear

Ahh, yes. Travel underwear.

I’ve already written at length about the many benefits of travel underwear , but I’ll briefly cover them again below:

• Quick Drying: Wash them in the sink and they’ll be dry by morning.
• Moisture Wicking : This helps keep your skin dry.
• Breathable: This helps stop you from getting all sweaty down there.
• Odor Blocking: Stop the stink (or at least delay it)
• Comfortable: You don’t want to spend your time thinking about your uncomfortable underwear.

Synthetic Underwear

Most travel underwear is made from synthetic fabric which is designed to be soft, lightweight, and breathable. It isn’t the best at controlling odor since some synthetic material holds in odor but many brands have various manufacturing processes that help combat odor.

The most popular travel underwear is made by ExOfficio (you can read our Exofficio review but these guys essentially invented travel underwear). We tend to find the best prices on Amazon and REI .

Patagonia (i.e. everyone’s favorite outdoors brand) has a handful of nice underwear options for both men and women.

Another very popular option is Under Armour underwear . They get a ton of great reviews on Amazon , many people swear by them, and they’re sometimes cheaper than ExOfficio.

For budget travelers, Uniqlo has their Airism line of underwear which isn’t bad but I’m not a huge fan of their cuts. But they’re very affordable so they’re worth looking at.

If you’re on a tight budget, you should check out Target and discount stores like T.J. Maxx or Marshalls because you can find “athletic” underwear for decent prices.

 Merino Wool Underwear

Merino wool is actually a very solid choice for underwear — even in the summer. It’s soft, it’s lightweight, it breathes well, and it’s the best option for resisting odor. The two main downsides are the high prices and durability.

There are a few different brands that sell quality merino wool underwear:

• Allbirds : Allbirds (the company famous for their merino wool shoes) also makes quality underwear and socks for both men and women. Check them out at Allbirds .
• Wool & Prince: This is our current “go-to” brand when it comes to anything merino wool. They currently only offer men’s underwear. Check them out on Wool & Prince .
• Icebreaker: Another popular wool brand is Icebreaker and they make everything from underwear to coats. Browse their selection on Amazon to find a cut that fits your style.

The Best Travel Pants and Jeans For Men

The number of companies making travel-friendly pants and jeans has exploded over the past few years. It’s actually kind of overwhelming but I’ll help you sort it all out.

And don’t worry — all the pants we recommend are actually fashionable so you won’t be looking like a mountain climber while city hopping.

The main thing to remember is that each of the pants on this list has different performance properties so that’s something you’ll want to match the performance to your needs.

Bluffworks Ascender Chinos

Bluffworks, which makes a range of travel garments, recently released their new Ascender Chinos . These are made with lightweight high-performance fabric. The polyester twill fabric has a nice amount of stretch and it has a minimal amount of “synthetic sheen”. The fabric is lightweight so it breaths well, resists wrinkles, and has water-resistant properties.

It’s also nice that these come in both a regular and tailored fit. I own the tailored fit but it certainly isn’t constricting.

The Ascender Chinos have multiple security features like multiple secret zipper pockets to keep all your stuff safe (so you can throw away that terrible money belt).

The Ascender Chinos sell for $125 via Bluffworks

Bluffworks Departure Jeans

There are a lot of people who think jeans make a terrible choice when it comes to travel pants… and they kind of are (they take forever to dry, they’re heavy, and can be hot). But I love traveling in jeans.

Well, Bluffworks helped address many of the “negative” things about denim with their Departure Jeans. These are made from 68% Cotton, 22% COOLMAX Polyester, 9% Rayon, and 1% Spandex so they are super stretchy and much more lightweight than normal denim.

And they included two cleverly designed hidden pockets that don’t interfere with the normal pockets.

But I’ve saved the best for last… these look like normal jeans and they’re legit comfortable. I wear them even when I’m not traveling and that’s about as good an endorsement as I can give.

The Bluffworks Departure Travel Jeans retail for $98

Western Rise AT Slim Rivet Pants

Western Rise is a small performance apparel company from Telluride, Colorado that wanted to make clothing that performed well on the trails but still looked good in town. We think the AT Slim Rivet Pants do a really nice job of walking this balance.

The AT Slim Rivet Pants look very similar to standard five-pocket pants. The fabric is durable yet fairly lightweight and breathable (97% nylon, 3% spandex). Western Rise describes the fabric as “air-texturized fibers” so while it is nylon, the fabric has a cotton feel so there really isn’t any of that synthetic fabric sheen (but it does make a swishy noise).

The fabric also has a DWR coating to help repel water in case you get stuck in the rain or spill beer all over yourself. Additionally, there is a hidden zippered pocket for security.

As for the looks, these come in a slim but not skinny cut. They look like normal pants — which is a top priority. I wear my mine even when I’m not traveling.

The Western Rise AT Slim Rivet Pants retails for $128.

Outlier Slim Dungarees

Outlier designed their Slim Dungarees as a “five-pocket pant that we could travel the world in” and they’ve found their way on many of our trips to Europe. These have a great look and I think they’re some of the best-looking/most stylish travel pants. unfortunately, they’re also some of the most expensive so that’s something to keep in mind.

The Workcloth Doubleweave Canvas is both soft and lightweight yet very durable. The fabric has a nice amount of stretch and it dries very quickly. It also has a self-cleaning” NanoSphere® treatment that helps it repel water, coffee, wine, and dirt.

The Outlier Slim Dungarees sell for $198

Prana Brion Pants

PrAna is a well-established outdoorsy company so most of their stuff is better suited for things like hiking and rock climbing. That said, their Brion Pant  is one of their best-sellers thanks to its fairly modern cut and the fact that they look similar to jeans/chinos.

These are constructed from their durable and quick-drying ‘Zion’ fabric that’s actually stretchy (4-way stretch) so provides a good amount of movement. It’s also coated in a water-repellent (DWR) coating so it will withstand a little water.

So, these might not win any awards for fashion, they’re a solid choice at a solid price.

The  PrAna Brion Pant  retails for $79 via  PrAna .

Everlane Performance Chinos

Everlane recently released their Performance Chinos which I’m also really digging. I own a pair so I can attest that these are very comfortable and they’re probably the most stylish pants on this list.

That said, their Performance Chinos are made from 94% Cotton, 6% Elastane so these are the least “technical” pants on this list as well. But I still think these are a nice option if you’re more concerned about comfort than technical features.

The Everlane Performance Chinos cost $68 and come in four colors.

Ministry Of Supply Kinetic Dress Pants

If you’re looking for a formal/dressy look, but still want a ton of comfort, then look no further than Ministry of Supply Kinetic Pants . These have been described as “dress pants with the feel of sweatpants”.

The Kinetic Pants are made from Japanese Primeflex polyester that has a ton of stretch, resists wrinkles, wicks moisture, and repels water.

The Ministry of Supply Kinetic Pants sell for $145

Travel Pants & Jeans For Women

As we mentioned before, there is a lack of travel pants for women but we’ve tried to find some of the best of the limited choices that are available. One thing to note is that most women’s travel pants tend to focus more on comfort than “technical” fabrics.

Ministry of Supply

Of all the travel clothing brands, Ministry of Supply makes some of the most fashionable and best-performing clothes. Their stuff certainly isn’t cheap but the prices aren’t totally outrageous either.

Their flagship travel pants are their Slim Kinetic Pants which get rave reviews for looks, comfort, and performance. And they can be machine-washed and tumble-dried.

The Slim Kinetic Pants sell for $145.

Anatomie is a high-end women’s travel clothing company that’s one of the few brands which puts a heavy focus on fashion. Most of their travel-friendly pants are expensive at $225+/pair but they have a ton of different styles and cuts for just about every body type.

Check out Anatomie to see their travel pants and other travel garments (shirts, shorts, dresses, jackets, etc.).

Prana Travel Pants

PrAna is one of the few companies that make women’s pants made out of legit technical fabrics. Most of their stuff falls into the “ugly hiking pants” category but they have a few different styles of pants and jeans that are actually cute. And most of their pants are priced around $80 so they’re not crazy expensive.

Check PrAna to see all their styles.

Lululemon may be known for its yoga clothing but they’ve also branched out to more fashion-conscious athleisure wear that works fairly well as travel pants.

Check Lululemon to see the different styles they have available.

The Best Shirts For Travel

Alright, moving right along to shirts made from high-performance fabrics that actually look stylish.

Wool & Prince Tees

I practically live in t-shirts so a few solid-color tees are a staple of any travel wardrobe. While pricy, I love my Wool & Prince merino wool tees . These can be worn for multiple days and I don’t have to worry about washing them.

They have both 100% wool tees and 78% / 22% merino nylon blends. I recommend the blend since it’s cheaper, more durable, and requires less care when washing.

The Wool & Prince Tees sell from $68-$78

Bluffworks Meridian Dress Shirt

If you’re looking for a sharp-looking yet no-fuss button up then look at the Meridian Dress Shirt from Bluffworks. It’s made from 98% polyester and 2% spandex so it won’t wrinkle and the fabric will dry very quickly. The fabric can take a beating and there aren’t any special care instructions. We also like how it comes in both a classic and slim fit.

The Bluffworks Meridian Dress Shirt sells for $98

Bluffworks Piton Polo

I’ve only had my Bluffworks Piton Polo for about a month but I’m already seeing why this is an excellent travel shirt. First, it looks great and I love how it comes in a classic and slim fit. Next, the breathable pique knit is breathable and it only has a very slightly noticeable synthetic look even though it’s 100% polyester. And like all Bluffworks clothing, the fabric is tough, wrinkle-resistant, and doesn’t require any special care.

The Bluffworks Piton Polo sells for $68

Wool & Prince Polo

My Wool & Prince Polo always finds itself in my backpack. I love the cut and the quality is top-notch. It’s a nice “dressier” change from a t-shirt while still being casual. And you get all the benefits from merino wool fabric.

Wool & Prince offers has two types of polos — a 100% merino wool version and a 78% merino wool, 22% nylon blend. I own the blend version and I love it.

The Wool & Prince Polo sells for $78-$98.

Bluffworks Threshold Performance T-Shirt

You might be seeing a pattern here… but Bluffworks is back with their Threshold Performance T-Shirt. This ultra-lightweight t-shirt is made from a blend of 66% Polyester, 29% Lyocell, and 5% Elastane so it has a ton of stretch, wicks moisture well, and is very breathable. The fabric is thin (which is why it’s airy/breathable) so if you like a little more heft to your shirts then you might want to look elsewhere.

The Bluffworks Threshold Performance T-Shirt sells for $45

Wool & Prince Button-Ups

Wool & Price has a number of both short-sleeved and long-sleeve button-up shirts made from merino wool. I own one of their button-down oxford shirts and the fabric is very sturdy — I’d say it makes a nice choice for cooler weather as I can see it getting a little warm in the hot weather.

They also have a new wool/linen blend which will be more airy and breathable so these look great for warmer weather (I’ll be testing these once they get back in stock).

The Wool and Prince Button-Up Shirts sell for $98-$138

Outlier Merino T-Shirt

Outlier is another high-end brand that makes excellent products and one of my favorite items is their Ultrafine Merino T-shirt. It’s made from 17.5, 195gsm Merino Jersey Wool so the fabric is sturdy and drapes a bit better than many other merino t-shirts. And it comes in a lot of nice colors. But like all other Outlier products, the ultra-high-quality comes at a very high price.

The Outlier Ultrafine Merino T-shirt costs $110 each or three for $295.

Unbound Merino Wool T-Shirt

Unbound is another small company offering 100% ultra-fine 17.5 microns, 190g Merino wool shirts at affordable prices. I own a few of their shirts and while their shirts might not be quite as nice as other 100% merino shirts on our list, the price is a bit cheaper.

The Unbound Merino Wool T-Shirt sells for $65

Uniqlo Airism Shirts

When it comes to budget basics, it’s impossible to beat Uniqlo’s Airism line of shirts. We own a few different Airism items and they’re not terrible but they certainly aren’t nearly as nice or perform as well as the other items on this list — but they’re cheap.

Check Uniqlo to see what they have because always changing their stock.

Women’s Travel Shirts

Ok, here’s the deal… there aren’t a ton of “performance” shirts for women that aren’t ugly. But here are a few decent items we’ve found:

• Bluffworks Womens : Bluffworks has recently released a line of women’s travel clothing that looks very promising.
• Ministry of Supply is a great choice for high-performance clothing that still looks fashionable. And while their prices aren’t cheap, we consider them very reasonable. They also have nice dresses and other items.
• Unbound Merino has a black v-neck 100% merino shirt in a women’s cut for $65.
• Anatomie has a number of high-end cute tops made from travel-friendly fabrics but they’re expensive.
• Lululemon has some decent options but many of their items lean heavily into athleisure.

Cold Weather Travel Clothing

Most of the items on this list will work well in colder weather but you’ll want to pair them with other items to achieve maximum warmth. The key is layering—which basically means combining a few lighter layers to achieve warmth without the bulk.

Base Layers

A base layer is technically anything that is worn directly on your skin. Socks and underwear fall into this category but it also includes items like shirts, undershirts, and long underwear.

In the winter we’ll throw on long-sleeve merino wool or synthetic long underwear and this helps keep us warm and dry when we’re outside all day.

For the best selection, I recommend checking out REI as they carry all the major long underwear brands. If you’re trying to save a little money, check out Uniqlo’s  HeatTech  line of long underwear since it is cheap.

A mid-layer is anything that is worn between your base layer and your outer layer. Its main purpose is insulation and it can be a sweater, vest, down jacket, hoodie, or just about anything. Sometimes the mid-layer can act as an outer layer if the weather isn’t too cold.

When it comes to tech-wear, the main pieces are Merino wool sweaters/jackets, fleece jackets, and down (or a synthetic variation) jackets. The piece just needs to allow internal moisture (sweat) to evaporate through the fabric. It’s also nice if the piece is lightweight and durable.

Fleece is always a popular choice because it provides a good amount of warmth, durability, and breathability without being too bulky. There is also a variation of fleece called hard fleece — which is basically a fleece with a smoother and more durable exterior. Most hard fleece garments are also more water-resistant than normal fleece.

There are hundreds of fleece jackets available on the market at all price points, so we’d check out the selection at REI and buy whatever fits your budget.

Another popular choice is down jackets — although a lot of companies now use synthetic down ( Primaloft , Coreloft, etc.) and many people prefer synthetic material to natural down. Synthetic down is incredibly lightweight, compressible, breathable, and it retains warmth even when wet.

It is crazy how compressible natural and synthetic down jackets are — some can compress to the size of a shoe. When compared to a fleece jacket, a synthetic down jacket is more water-resistant , wind resistant, packable, and lighter. 

Nearly every outdoor brand makes lightweight down/synthetic down jackets. One of the most popular and fashionable brands is Patagonia — check out both Amazon and REI for the best selection. The  Patagonia Nano Puff jacket is probably the most popular lightweight puff jacket on the market so it’s no wonder it’s a favorite among experienced travelers (it’s what we use).

Outerwear is generally the final layer and it is what protects you from the elements (wind, rain, snow, etc.). The problem with outerwear is that it encompasses a huge range of garments that perform a huge range of functions. It can be anything from a simple waterproof jacket for summer showers, to large winter coats capable of withstanding a harsh Scandinavian winter.

I’ll start off by diving into  waterproof jackets since that is probably what most people are interested in learning about.

Most traditional waterproof jackets are called hard shells . These are 100% waterproof and they have that plastic-y feel and sound. If you want the ultimate protection from the elements, this is your choice.

However, being impermeable to the elements means that the material doesn’t breathe — this is less than ideal because it doesn’t allow your body’s sweat to evaporate. Basically, it traps moisture and makes you feel all clammy.

Some high-end hardshell jackets have breathable fabric, but even those aren’t as breathable as softshells (which we’ll talk about later).

Unsurprisingly, most waterproof jackets are made by outdoor companies, so trying to find a stylish one isn’t super easy. However, there are plenty of decent-looking options by Marmot, Patagonia, and The North Face.

However, in the summer I generally recommend that a traditional rain jacket is unnecessary — mainly because it doesn’t rain a lot and most jackets are too heavy for summer travel.

However, Ultralight Rain Jackets are super lightweight (they only weigh a few ounces) and they can be packed into a pocket, so they’re easy to carry around in a daypack. Ultralight rain jackets won’t have very good breathability, but you’ll only be wearing them in the rain, so it isn’t a huge issue.

The best ultralight rain jackets are the  Outdoor Research Helium II , Marmot Super Mica , and the  Montane Minimus  (they all weigh under 10 oz).

When it comes to breathability, it doesn’t get any better than a softshell jacket. Softshell jackets aren’t technically 100% waterproof, but they’re essentially waterproof. They’re well-suited for urban travel because they’re more comfortable than a hard shell and they’re more stylish.

Again, there are hundreds of softshell jackets, so I recommend visiting REI (click here for Men’s and Women’s ) to see which ones fit your budget and style preference.

Heavy Coats

If you’re traveling during the winter, you may consider bringing a heavy winter coat . In some instances, you may be completely comfortable by layering a base layer, a few mid-layers, and an outer layer. But, sometimes, you need a heavy coat — especially if you’re traveling to Northern or Eastern Europe in the dead of winter.

Puffy down coats provide an amazing warmth-to-weight ratio — which is always something to consider when traveling. Combine that down coat with a base layer and a warm mid-layer, and you’ll be staying toasty. Natural down is the warmest, but it becomes ineffective if it gets wet.

On the other hand, synthetic down isn’t quite as warm, but it still works if it gets wet and it dries quicker. Different coats have different amounts of water-repellant, so this is something to take into consideration.

For the best selection of insulated coats , I recommend checking out REI  simply because they have the best selection. Look for one that fits your personal style.

If you’re looking for the ultimate protection from the elements, you’ll want a standard waterproof, winter coat. A lot of coats have a 3-in-1 system that contains a waterproof outer shell and an interior insulated lining. Again, REI is a good place to start your search because they have the best selection.

More Travel Gear Recommendations from The Savvy Backpacker

Here are some more helpful “best of” travel gear guides that we think you’ll find helpful!

• Best Travel Backpacks
• Best Travel Backpacks for Women
• Best Carry-On Backpacks
• Best Travel Shoes
• Best Waterproof Boots for Men
• Best Waterproof Boots for Women
• Recent Posts
• New York Pass Review | Is It A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 20, 2024
• Paris Pass Review — A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 13, 2024
• The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024

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• Environment

What to Wear When It’s Really Hot Outside

When temperatures rise , many people strip down. But when you’re dressing for a hot day, how to get away with wearing as little as possible isn’t the only factor to consider.

In hot temperatures, your body sweats to cool itself down . When sweat evaporates, it takes some of your body heat with it, helping to keep you comfortable. So when you’re getting dressed during a heatwave, it's best to choose garments that will make the evaporation process as easy as possible, says Guowen Song, who runs the Lab for Heat and Thermal Protection Research at Iowa State University.

“We human beings really need to balance heat and moisture to feel good,” Song says. “That’s why in different seasons we wear different things. The clothing mediates how much heat dissipates into the environment.”

Here’s what to wear to stay comfortable on a hot day .

Loose or sweat-wicking clothes

Avoid tight clothing, as these garments will keep sweat trapped on your skin, says Kimberly McMahon, who leads the National Weather Service’s Public Weather Services Program. “If the sweat’s just sitting on you, then it’s not evaporating, and therefore it’s never actually leaving the surface of your body and it’s harder for your body to stay cool,” McMahon explains. Loose, flowy garments are usually a better choice on sweltering days.   

The exception: technical fabrics, like those used in athleisure, are often specifically designed to wick away sweat, Song says. Even tighter-fitting garments using these synthetic materials, like polyester and nylon, can help keep you cool and dry. Look for terms like "sweat-wicking," "moisture-wicking," or "quick dry" on the label.

Read More : What's the Best Kind of Sunscreen?

And, contrary to what you might assume, wearing as little clothing as possible isn’t always the best strategy. Garments that provide some coverage prevent the sun from beating down directly on your bare skin, says Margaret Frey, a professor of fiber science and apparel design at Cornell University. “We can look for inspiration from traditional dress from very warm climates,” Frey says. “In a lot of them, they are wearing things that actually cover most of the body but are not tight-fitting.” People from desert climates, for example, often wear full-body robes.

Breathable fabrics

For everyday summer-wear, look for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen, Frey suggests. These fibers will not only allow any natural breezes to pass through your clothes and cool the skin, but also allow your sweat to escape and evaporate. If you’re not sure if your clothing is breathable, there’s an easy way to find out: just put your hand inside a garment, blow on it, and see if you can feel your breath on your hand, Frey suggests.

If you’re going to be exercising or sweating heavily, however, Song says you may want to go for a synthetic, moisture-wicking fabric. Natural fibers like cotton and linen absorb sweat, whereas engineered textiles “dry fast and transport your moisture to the outside,” he says.

Light colors

There’s a reason white clothing is popular in the summer. Garments in dark colors like black, navy, and forest green absorb more of the sun’s UV radiation than light-colored clothes. Researchers in Japan have run experiments in which multiple polo shirts—identical except for their colors—are left outside on sunny days. The dark shirts get significantly hotter than the light shirts even after a relatively short time outside, they report . For that reason, Song, McMahon, and Frey all recommend light-colored clothing during the summer.

But some researchers argue it's not that simple. Remember the robes worn in desert climates? Those worn by the Bedouin people in North Africa and the Middle East are traditionally black—a choice that some scientists argue is a smart one, because while the robe itself absorbs more heat than a white one would, that heat does not necessarily reach the skin.

Read More : How to Cool Down When It's Really Hot Outside

And there is a tradeoff to wearing light clothing, Frey adds. Light-colored clothes aren’t as effective at protecting your skin from the sun as dark clothes are, meaning you may be more susceptible to sunburns and skin damage if you’re decked out in gauzy white cotton. Compensate by wearing plenty of sunscreen —and by washing your clothes regularly , since many commercial detergents include brightening agents that may also boost UV protection, Frey says.

Functional accessories

Think strategically about what to wear from head to toe. A wide-brimmed hat can provide some extra shade on a sunny day, McMahon says, while open-toed shoes can help with ventilation, Song says.

Last but not least, Song says, choose undergarments made from sweat-wicking materials. “They’re in contact with your skin,” he says, so picking the right ones can make a big difference for comfort. 

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Write to Jamie Ducharme at [email protected]

What To Wear On Vacation: Smart Outfit Ideas From Our Fashion Team

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What to wear on vacation largely depends on where you’re headed, but as a general rule, look for comfortable, versatile and stylish items that pack down easily (and will stay wrinkle-free). We connected with deputy fashion editor (and in-house style expert) Kari Molvar to drill down into the specifics and find the best essentials to bring on your next trip. The list of vacation outfit ideas includes Quince’s breezy Cotton Smocked Midi Dress , a relaxed sundress with a flowy skirt, J.Crew’s soft Tropez Linen Shorts and Rothy’s slip-on-and-go Weekend Slide .

When packing for vacation, look for comfortable, versatile and stylish garments.

Whether you’re heading on a weekend getaway or a long trip to Europe, here’s our expert take on what to wear on your next vacation. For more inspiration, we also rounded up the most comfortable sandals for women and the best swimsuit brands to shop.

The Best Stroller Fans Are Easy To Use, Safe And Cooling

How to keep pets safe in the summer heat, according to experts, editor’s picks at a glance:, abercrombie & fitch tie maxi dress, tuckernuck finley flutter sleeve dress, quince 100% organic cotton tiered maxi skirt.

• AYR The Deep End Linen Shirt

Spanx AirEssentials Boat Neck Top

J.crew tropez linen short, andie the amalfi one piece.

• Rothy’s Weekend Slide

Cuyana Concertina Phone Bag

All the best vacation dresses, vibrant tie-waist maxi.

Abercrombie & Fitch

This bright maxi dress from Abercrombie & Fitch is comfortable and stylish, with short sleeves, a v-neckline and a functional tie-waist belt. The tiered skirt with side slits adds extra movement to the bottom.

Mini Dress With Fun, Oversized Sleeves

Crafted from 100% cotton, this easy shift dress is an excellent day-to-night option. It has oversized flutter sleeves, a relaxed fit and a slightly longer back hem. Wear it with comfortable flats during the day and accessorize with statement jewelry and strappy sandals when the sun goes down.

Comfortable, Light And Easy To Wear

Quince 100% organic cotton smocked midi dress.

For a versatile dress that can be worn for various occasions, you can’t go wrong with the Quice 100% Organic Cotton Smocked Midi Dress. This A-line style has a tiered poplin skirt and a smocked bodice for added comfort, and the midi length is easy to dress up or down. Choose from seven cheerful colors.

Summery Print With Tiered Skirt

Cupshe ruffle sleeveless dress.

This light and airy mini dress looks great for a day of sightseeing or thrown over a bathing suit after lounging at the pool. The tiered skirt is a flattering length, and the affordable price means you can stock up on a few different patterns. Keep in mind: Customers say the lighter hues are more transparent and work better as a cover-up.

Soft Material And Adjustable Straps

The drop women's britt tiered maxi tent dress.

This well-reviewed option is made from breathable and lightweight tencel lyocell, and its casual design is ideal for daytime wear. It has a slightly looser fit, thin straps and a midi length.

All The Best Vacation Tops

Stylish, long-sleeve option.

Don’t forget a long-sleeve tee for chilly nights—or whenever you want extra coverage. The boat neckline and soft, stretchy material make this number easy to throw on with jeans, shorts or skirts.

Great Base Layer For Any Outfit

Madewell supima rib '90s tank.

This tank top is a great base layer that’s long enough to be tucked into various bottoms. Although it’s designed to be fitted, some customers say it runs small, so you might want to size up.

Pairs With Anything In Your Wardrobe

Everlane the organic cotton slim crew tee.

A solid-colored t-shirt is a great basic that can be styled with almost anything, from maxi skirts to denim to shorts. This tee has a slim fit and ribbed neckline and comes in many neutral colors.

All The Best Vacation Button-Downs

Neutral colors and a relaxed fit.

Mate The Label

Mate The Label Organic Poplin Long Sleeve Button Down

A cotton button-down is a wardrobe staple that can be worn year-round and in many different climates. This iteration from Mate The Label—a female-founded brand that focuses on well-made basics—has a relaxed fit, button cuffs and a front chest pocket. Pair it with the matching cotton poplin pants for an easy, monochromatic travel outfit.

Versatile And Comfortable

Ayr the deep end in linen.

Cut from sturdy Irish linen, this popular button-down is perfectly oversized and can be worn on its own or layered over a tank top or t-shirt. Reviewers say it runs large, so consider sizing down one to two sizes depending on your preference.

All The Best Vacation Skirts

Cool, crisp and stylish.

This crisp cotton skirt looks (and feels) light and comfortable, no matter the temperature. The wide elastic waistband adds to the overall comfort, and side pockets allow you to stash small essentials like balm and keys.

Whimsical Design And Mini Length

H&m mini circle skirt.

If you’re looking for a bright and cheery mini skirt, consider this whimsical option from H&M. The high-waisted design is cut from breathable cotton and features citrus fruits on a cream background.

Quality Linen With A Modest Price Tag

Old navy high-waisted linen-blend maxi skirt.

Pair this pull-on linen skirt with tank tops, t-shirts and more structured linen options (like the matching sleeveless linen-blend top ) for a stylish vacation outfit. It hits right above the ankle, and the waist of the back is elasticized for added comfort.

Fun, Color-Block Design

Mango crochet mini skirt.

This color-blocked knee-length skirt is airy and bright, with an elastic waist that won’t hug the body too closely, which is helpful when traveling during the warmer months. Because the knitted design features several colors, pair this with a more neutral top and sandals.

All The Best Vacation Bottoms

High rise with front patch pockets, madewell the denim emmett short.

Denim shorts are a summer wardrobe staple, and for good reason. They’re durable, have multiple pockets and can be styled with various tops. This popular style from Madewell has a 10-inch rise, two patch front pockets and a hint of stretch.

Casual Style For Everyday Wear

Reformation

Reformation Fernando Wide Leg Linen Pant

These wide-leg linen pants are a travel essential. They can be worn over a swimsuit or a more formal blouse for dinner and drinks. If the length is too long, Reformation provides free alterations in-store, and this style is available in petite and plus sizing.

Soft Hand Feel And A Relaxed Fit

Packing a soft pair of shorts is a good idea, as they can be worn during a day of travel and later dressed up with leather sandals and bold jewelry. Style details include a smocked waist, high rise and flattering drape. For a monochromatic ensemble, pair these shorts with the matching long-sleeve shirt .

Wrinkle-Resistant And Tailored

Alo yoga high-speed mini skirt.

If you’re not afraid to show a little leg, this mini skirt is polished and tailored yet surprisingly comfortable. It’s made from a wrinkle-proof polyester blend, so even if it’s stuffed in your suitcase or overnight bag, it won’t require an iron. The built-in shorts and elasticized back waist are nice touches, too.

The Best Vacation Sweaters

Cozy, lightweight layer, quince lightweight cotton cashmere cardigan.

A lightweight cardigan can be a welcome layer when the temperatures fluctuate in your hotel room or on public transportation. This under $50 option balances comfort and style with its soft material, deep v-neck and ribbed hemline and cuffs.

Warm, Comfortable And Elegant

White + Warren

White + Warren Essential Cashmere Crewneck

The White + Warren Essential Cashmere Crewneck is another layer to consider for your next getaway. We love the wide range of vibrant summer colors, including Bright Tangerine and Pink Lemonade. (This pick also earned top marks from our tester in our review of the best cashmere sweaters .)

Textured Knit In A Cheerful Color

Mango short-sleeve polo neck jumper.

This short-sleeve polo is a fun option that adds a bright pop of color to your vacation wardrobe. It has a slightly cropped hemline and textured knit for visual interest.

All The Best Vacation Swimsuits

Flattering and supportive one-piece.

This one-piece swimsuit has a scoop neckline, adjustable straps, removable soft cups and compressive fabric that provides light support. There’s a wide range of sizes and colors, including several textured options that can add interest to your poolside look. Plus, it’s available in a long torso fit.

Classic Bikini With High-Waisted Bottoms

Cupshe twist front bathing suit.

If you prefer a more classic two-piece bikini, this under $40 swimsuit is an excellent choice. The top has a twist-front design with adjustable straps, and the bottoms are high-waisted and provide a good amount of coverage.

All The Best Vacation Cover-Ups

Textured fabric and elegant look.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Short-Sleeve Button-Front Midi Dress

Anthropologie’s Short-Sleeve Button-Front Midi Dress helps you look pulled together with minimal effort, if you’re just reading or lounging on the beach. Style details include a collar, front buttons and oversized cuffed sleeves.

Made From Airy, Crocheted Cotton

Madewell crochet cutaway cover-up midi dress.

This lightweight cotton cover-up has a mini length and cutaway armholes, allowing more of your swimsuit to be visible underneath. The crocheted fabric also allows for better air circulation on hot, humid days.

Flowy And Chic

Vitamin a playa maxi.

A longer-length cover-up provides sun protection and transitions well from the beach or pool to dinner. This option has an oversized fit, side pockets and an adjustable tie belt. Despite its longer length, the side slits and gauzy material allow plenty of airflow.

All The Best Vacation Shoes

Soft leather and a simple design, everlane the day glove.

Whether strolling around a new city or doing a walking tour with friends, bringing a comfortable pair of flats is a smart choice. Everlane’s Day Glove is cut from soft, flexible leather and has a cushioned insole for all-day support. The side vents also enhance the shoe’s breathability.

Machine Washable And Highly Breathable

Allbirds women’s tree runners.

If you’re looking for a versatile pair of walking shoes, you can’t go wrong with the Allbirds Tree Runners. The uppers are made from eucalyptus tree fibers (also called tencel lyocell), known for being light and breathable. What’s more, the shoes are machine washable and have a contoured midsole for superior comfort.

Contoured Footbed And Knit Straps

Rothy’s the weekend slide.

If you’re headed somewhere warm, don’t forget to pack a pair of slides to wear with shorts and sundresses. With two crisscrossing knit straps and a thick, contoured footbed, these sandals are stylish and comfortable for walking. Like Allbirds sneakers, this pick is entirely machine washable for easy cleaning.

Easy To Dress Up Or Down

Banana Republic

Banana Republic Molded Outsole Sandal

These cool sandals are available in two neutral colors and feature thick buckle straps and shiny gold hardware; the padded footbed adds to the cushioned feel. Reviewers say these sandals are well-made and instantly elevate any outfit.

All The Best Vacation Accessories

Folds down for easy packing, j.crew textured summer straw hat.

A straw hat can shield your eyes and face from the sun while making a style statement. The crocheted material allows for easy airflow, and the hat flattens and folds down when you need to pack it in your suitcase.

Classic Frames With Polarized Lenses

Ray-ban wayfarer oval sunglasses.

Ray-Ban’s Wayfarer sunglasses are a classic style that looks stylish with everything from bright sundresses to more tailored pants. The oval shape is a modern update to the more traditional square-shaped frames, and there are six colorways to choose from.

Stay Organized On The Go

When traveling, it’s a good idea to bring a small bag that allows you to go hands-free while sightseeing and exploring. Despite its small size (7.5 x 5 1.7 inches), this pick has three interior compartments for holding essential items like your phone, passport and wallet.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

The Forbes Vetted team has researched, written and published dozens of fashion stories , including roundups of the best summer dresses and best linen pants .

• This article was overseen by deputy editor (and in-house style expert) Kari Molvar , who holds a certificate in fashion styling from the Business of Fashion.
• Katherine Louie , the author of this piece, is a lifestyle editor with extensive experience covering fashion and lifestyle topics.
• This article is regularly updated to ensure all of the above brands and products continue to meet our criteria for the best summer dresses.

What Should I Wear On Vacation?

What you wear on vacation largely depends on where you’re headed and your personal style. Make sure to check the weather of your destination before you begin packing, and write out what you plan to wear so you can visualize each item and make changes to your list ahead of time. If you’re headed somewhere warm, pack a swimsuit, cover-up, sandals, sunglasses, and wardrobe basics like denim shorts, linen pants and several dresses. Focus on lightweight, breathable materials like cotton, linen and Tencel. If you’re traveling somewhere a bit colder, bring warm layers, an insulating jacket and cozy accessories like a hat, gloves and scarf.

What Is The Perfect Clothing For Traveling?

Anything soft, comfortable and stretchy is perfect for traveling. For example, loose-fitting separates like cotton joggers or wide-leg pants paired with a tee, tank or pullover are helpful. It’s also beneficial to wear clothing that’s machine washable and easy to layer, as the temperature can fluctuate in your hotel room or on public transportation. If you’re going to be flying, wear shoes that are easy to remove when you go through security and compression socks to help relieve aches and pains.

How Do You Look Chic On Vacation?

You can instantly elevate your vacation look with the right accessories. Pack a few pieces of jewelry that pair with different outfits, fun sunglasses and comfortable yet stylish shoes. If you’re traveling during the summer, the Banana Republic Molded Outsole Sandals are a great option, as these shoes have fashionable straps and shiny gold hardware. Still, the padded footbed adds to the overall comfort. J. Crew’s packable Summer Straw Hat , Ray-Ban’s classic Wayfarer Oval Sunglasses and Cuyana’s textured leather Phone Bag are all stylish accessories that can help you look chic and polished on your next getaway.

More Fashion Stories To Shop

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What To Wear In Russia? 21 Outfit Ideas And Packing List

What To Wear In Russia – Russia is a truly magical place, and if you are going there for the first time, it would be nothing less than a memorable experience. To make the best of your time there, you should prepare ahead with the stuff like what to wear or pack.

Here’s an ultimate guide for you, from packing tips to outfit ideas according to weather and based on your activities there.

So, please sit down, have a cup of coffee, and let’s start planning your outfits for your trip with me.

Packing Tips for Your Trip to Russia:

• CASUAL & EASY OUTFITS

SEMI-FORMAL OUTFITS

• SUMMER & SPRING OUTFITS
• WINTER & FALL OUTFITS

OUTFITS FOR MATURE WOMEN

Celebrities inspired outfits, outfits for plus-size women, what should i bring with me when traveling to russia.

If you are a first-time traveler confused about what you should bring to Russia, here’s the simplest answer:

• For winters – thermal, long coats, mufflers, earbuds, gloves, warm shoes, and socks.
• For summ er – long skirts, light wear jackets, and maxi dresses.
• For a formal trip – bring long skirts and suits to make an impression.

• Keep the necessities first , like your documents, laptop, extensions, phone charger, utilities, hand sanitizer, masks (just in case), insect repellent, and sunscreen.

• If there is more than one city on your trip, try to keep your luggage minimum . Try to add statement pieces from your wardrobe. For example, don’t keep too many coats. It will take up more space. Take just one or a maximum of two coats which you can style with every outfit.

• Pack shoes that are comfortable to wear the whole day. If you are traveling in winter, then you prefer boots over sneakers. It is because, with sneakers, there is always a chance your foot will get wet in the rain.

CASUAL & EASY OUTFITS

You can find hiking trails, parks, and much other adventurous stuff to do in Russia. So pack casual and easy outfits in which you can feel comfortable all day.

Instead of heels, I suggest you carry sneakers because you will walk a lot there. You can wear shorts, there’s no harm in that, but jeans are more prevalent among locals.

21 – Yellow Top With Black High-Waisted Pants And Green Silk Oversized Shirt For Airport

For the airport, always select comfy clothes. Whenever I choose my airport outfits , I remember that the fabric shouldn’t be too tight because it can be irritating if the flight is long. You can always choose oversized hoodies for the airport, but this outfit is perfect if you want to look chic.

Pick a yellow crop top with black high-waisted pants. You can pair it with any oversized button-down shirt. Roll the sleeves up for a chic look.

Lastly, choose your comfiest pair of sneakers to complete your look. Accessorize your look with black shades and carry a tote bag for all your belongings.

20 – Olive Spaghetti Strap Crop Camisole With White Collared Crop Top And Beige Shorts

Another casual outfit you can easily wear on a sunny day is an olive spaghetti strap camisole with beige shorts. You can wear an oversized shirt and tie it from the front to create a cover-up, or you can also wear a cropped jacket.

For footwear, sneakers are the best option if you plan to walk. Otherwise, white slides will also look fine.

This outfit is perfect for the day when you haven’t planned much for the trip and want to walk around the streets to appreciate the surroundings casually.

19 – Green Sweatshirt With Light Blue Flared Denim Jeans And Mint Sherpa Jacket

While in Russia, you had to travel from one city to another. Russia has one of the largest rails, so you should definitely experience it while you are there.

Don’t bother to wear anything too fancy for your train ride. Just wear a hoodie and light blue flared denim jeans. Pair your outfit with a mint green sherpa jacket.

Another tip if you are visiting Russia for the first time is don’t carry too much stuff. Instead of taking many handbags, go with a staple crossbody bag and a big tote bag that can fit your important stuff.

Russia has a lot of monuments to visit. Cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg are famous for heritage and culture, so you can see museums, galleries, and architecture.

Although Russians are not the biggest fan of bold and bright patterns, but you can wear dark shades for the night outs, like a fancy dinner at a yacht.

I suggest wearing light colors for the churches and museums and going with dresses because they look more formal. If you are on a business trip, then choose skirts.

18 – Purple Crewneck Full-Sleeves Midi Dress With Pink Belt And Purple Hat

If you want to wear modern clothes in Russia, but for a formal gathering, then there’s nothing a better option than a crewneck midi dress.

You can add a pink belt and a purple hat for a voguish look. Go with transparent heels if you are attending a party or brown boots if you are just out to admire the beauty of the place.

Accessorize your outfit with a few bracelets and rings. A little tip for you is to avoid neck pieces with crewneck dresses. Keep your makeup minimal, and a bright shade of lipstick is all you need to

17 – Red Silk Front Knot Bishop Sleeves Top With Matching Red Skirt

A Red Silk outfit is the perfect option for clubbing when you are in Russia. You can wear lace-up heels with this dress for an evening glam look.

Keep your makeup dewy, and use minimal jewelry to complete the look. Lastly, do your hair in a beachy waves style, so you don’t have to tie them up.

SUMMER & SPRING OUTFITS

Summer is a perfect time to travel to Russia if you want to explore this country’s hidden gems. The temperature ranges from 20 to 30-degree celsius. Remember that Russians wear modest clothing, so don’t bring anything too short. Otherwise, you will feel uncomfortable around the locals.

Although you can enjoy good sunny days in Russia, you will soon find out that the temperature is unpredictable. So always carry light wear jackets and umbrellas with you.

16 – Black And White Stripe Sweatshirt With Beige Pleated Skirt And Fleece Stockings

An easy way to wear skirts in Russia is to pair them with stockings. You can wear any top from your wardrobe or a sweatshirt and wear a skirt. Choose chunky white sneakers to complete the look.

15 – Printed Elastic Top With Brown Oversized Button Down Shirt And Beige High-Waisted Pants

Printed shirts are pretty popular these days. You can easily pair them with cargo pants or high-waisted jeans. Add a beige oversized button-down shirt to bring that spring vibe. Lastly, a tote bag would match the look perfectly.

14 – White Sports Bra, White Pleated Skirt, And Pink Sheer Button-Down Shirt

What to pack for Russia in summer is the most asked question by first-time visitors. You don’t have to go over the board while packing. Keep your luggage minimum, so you don’t have to worry about that. Since we are talking about summer, an all-white outfit is a must. Pair a white sports bra with a white pleated skirt.

You can add a feminine touch by wearing a pink button-down shirt over it. Keep the buttons open, or tie them from the front as you like. Lastly, choose white pair of sneakers to finish the look. Keep your jewelry minimal, and that’s it.

13 – White Crop Top, Ripped Blue Jeans, And Denim Crop Jacket

Another important question I have mostly heard is what not to wear in Russia. When you search your query, you might get answers like don’t wear ripped jeans in Russia. However, the reality is that tourists in Russia have no dress code.

Pair a white tank top with blue jeans and wear a blue denim jacket. Choose white sneakers and match your belt with the color of your footwear. For the accessory, add silver hoops to keep your look elegant. Last but not least, don’t forget to carry a sling bag.

WINTER & FALL OUTFITS

Russain winters are extremely cold, and you can face heavy snowfall, so always come prepared for that. The temperature varies from -2°C/28°F to -28°C/-18°F. Therefore, it’s wise to pack a lot of layers.

Whether going to Moscow’s Red Square or Hermitage Museum at the Winter Palace, you need to wear a lot of warm clothes. I suggest wearing a thermal first, then a sweater, and lastly a long coat – basically you want to layer like a pro . Wear waterproof boots and don’t forget to pack gloves.

12 – Blue And White Turtle Neck Sweater With Black Jeans And Black Fur Coat

Winters are always extreme in Russia, especially from November to March. Try to pack according to the season, and I suggest checking the weather app for dates of your stay beforehand because Russia’s cold weather can freeze you to death. Another factor to consider here is which cities are on your list.

Wear a sweater with your warmest jeans. Now layer a black fur coat and white cap. You can also add wool gloves; trust me, you will need them. Use a crossbody bag; it will be easy to carry around.

11 – Black Crop Top And Pink Sweatpants With Black Denim Jacket

If you are visiting an area that is not so cold, pair your black sweatshirt with pink joggers. Add a black leather jacket to give you a comfy yet stylish vibe. Choose chunky sneakers for that extra height. Lastly, add black shades to complete your look.

10 – Light Blue Turtle Neck And Leather Blazer With White Sherpa Coat

If you like leather blazers and trousers, pair them with a light blue turtleneck and a white sherpa coat. You can accessorize minimal jewelry. Also, for snowy areas, wear boots instead of sneakers. Add colors with pink sunglasses, and that’s it.

09 – White Turtle Neck And Black Pants With Long White Coat And Checkered Print Muffler

A white turtle neck and white coat are a great combination with black jeans and black boots. But to elevate the look of your outfit, add prints with mufflers or caps. Checkered print in white and black is an excellent option for pairing.

08 – Off-White Co-Ord Set With Boots And Long Oversized Brown Coat

Co-ord sets are pretty common these days; almost everyone has a pair of them in their wardrobe. You can layer your white co-ord set with thermals and put on a brown wool coat for extreme weather. Wool coats are best for Russian winters, so don’t forget to pack them with you.

07 – Greyish Black Turtleneck Dress With Black Wool Coat And Checkered Bucket Hat

Turtleneck dresses look super cute and are easy to style. Thanks to the legging makers who came up with the idea that you can wear leggings in winter, and thanks to Tiktok for making it so popular. Also, add a black wool coat and a bucket hat to finish the look.

06 – Green V-Neck Pleated Midi Dress With White Strap Sandals

Midi dresses are the perfect option for desi moms on vacation. Not too fancy but not so casual, wear green midi dresses with white strap sandals. Either go with sandals or choose sneakers, depending on your comfort level.

05 – White Hoodie And White Straight Pants With Colorful Printed Coat And White Mary Jane Shoes

White hoodies, sweatpants, and a colorful cardigan are the best ways to spend your lazy days in Russia when you want to roam around the streets. Also, the colorful cardigan is a staple piece because you can style it with many outfits.

04 – Black Spaghetti Strap Mini Dress With White Detailing And Long Fur Coat

When it comes to styling statement pieces, no one can do it better than Hailey Bieber. Choose a black mini dress and pair it with a long fur coat. Add long boots to finish the look. It’s a perfect outfit for clubbing in Russia.

03 – Beige Turtle Neck And High Waisted Skirt With Brown Belt And Beige Coat

If sophistication and elegance could be defined with one picture, then this would be it. Pair the beige turtleneck with a high-waist skirt. You can add a beige or brown long beige coat. Style long brown boots with this outfit and match your belt with boots to add colors to the look.

02 – Grey Top With Black Elastic Waist Trousers And Black Blazer

A grey ribbed shirt with black elastic waist trousers is perfect for comfortable sightseeing in Russia. There is no specific dress code for tourists in Russia so you can style everything. Choose a black blazer if you want to keep your look subtle. Accessorize your outfit with golden hoops, and a chain necklace would be a nice addition.

Carry a vibrant or bright color bag to contrast the outfit. Lastly, sightseeing means a lot of walking, so pick your most comfortable sandals, and you are all set to go out for the day.

01 – Green Printed V-NeckFront-Knot Pleated Midi Dress With Black Sandals

Another excellent outfit if you want to dress apart from traditional clothes in Russia is a flowy midi pleated dress. You can choose a V-neck long sleeves dark green dress with embellishment of black detailing on it. Choose black sandals with laces so you can wrap them around your foot.

Roll up the sleeves if the weather is too hot. By the way, it is the best look to go with if you are searching for what to wear in Russia in summer. Wear a smartwatch as an accessory. Lastly, pick up your colored shades so you can enjoy the sightseeing without getting your eyes affected by sun rays.

Q: Can you wear jeans in Russia?

Ans: Russia never directly bans jeans. However, in the past, there were restrictions on clothing from the western world, but now jeans are pretty popular in style here and will serve as an adjustable base for your outfit when paired with lighter layers in the summer and heavier ones in the winter.

Q: Is there a dress code in Russia?

Ans: For Russians, there are some standard norms for dressing. However, for tourists there’s no dress code in Russia.

Q: How should I dress in Moscow?

Ans: Because of how conservative Russia is, bright colors will make you stick out, especially in the winter. Moreover, denim is very popular in Moscow in the summer and throughout the year.

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The golden rules of European summer travel

By Charley Ward

After taking hundreds of flights between us, the editors of Conde Nast Traveller know a thing or two about how to make experiences abroad go as smoothly as possible. A few mishaps when away can quickly sour your day, so thank us later when you’re dodging tourists lugging heavy cases down heaving streets, seamlessly planning days to the minute, and saving money on data and hotel services. From what to wear to how to pack to how to best utilise technology, here are the golden rules for travelling comfortably in Europe this summer.

Skip the bulky luggage

Part of the charm of a European summer getaway is stealing off down charming cobblestone streets or taking a ferry to a tiny rugged island. But the more remote the location, the trickier the journey can be, especially when toting a big bulky luggage . Instead, pack strategically (we’re a big fan of compression packing cubes), and go carry-on only – and be sure to make full use of your under-seat bag allowance. BEIS, Away and Monos make larger carry-ons that we reach for when we’re headed off on longer trips and use packing cubes to help further – these keep your case tidy and organised and allow you to pack more tightly and thus squeeze in a few more precious garments.

Even better for traversing bumpy streets is if you switch your carry-on case for a travel backpack . These are hand luggage-sized bags, which usually open up fully like a suitcase but offer all the convenience of a backpack. Away, Stubble & Co. and Horizn Studios make some of our favourites.

Stay organised with packing cubes

Packing cubes maximise the amount you can fit in your luggage, squeezing out the air so you can fill every inch of space, and they’re also very useful for remaining organised. I usually keep underwear and swimwear in one, shoes in another, and use one for dresses and one for shorts and tops. Any spares are good for corralling tech and beauty items to sling in the hotel bathroom. Using these cubes prevents any need to constantly rummage through an unruly suitcase to grab what I need, which is especially handy if you need to dip into it in the airport or need to reopen your case prior to heading off. See the best packing cubes we've tested here.

Download these travel apps before you fly

There are several apps I can’t imagine travelling without now. Splitwise , for hashing out the details of group payments; Google Translate , for ordering in restaurants and directing in taxis; and Google Maps for easy navigation. Google Maps especially has had a helpful upgrade lately. The ‘category’ function now automatically sorts all the places you’ve saved for your trip via function, such as ‘bakeries’, ‘museums’, ‘bars’ etc. It means that you can pull up each category wherever you are and it’ll show you where’s closest – handy if you're looking for the best restaurant nearby for dinner, for example. Clever TikTokers have discovered another Maps hack. If you use the wheelchair-friendly directions, you’ll be offered a route without stairs, steep hills and with lift access, which is a game-changer if you’re traversing streets with heavy luggage in tow.

Escape the airport crowds and head to the lounge

As much as I love travelling, the thought of finding a spare seat at Heathrow Airport on the first day of the school holidays fills me with dread. If you feel the same way, you might want to sign up to Priority Pass (or gain access to a membership via American Express). Memberships start at £69 annually and give you access to an array of airport lounges, including Heathrow Terminal 2, 3, 4 and 5, London Gatwick, Manchester International and more. Each lounge has comfortable and quiet seating areas, as well as complimentary drinks, snacks and buffet meals.

Pre-book your airport transfers

Since the pandemic, I’ve found I’ve been less likely to rely on getting Ubers in general, let alone from the airport during busy travel times. Likewise, taxis can be hit and miss and prices can vary widely depending on demand. When I travelled to Greece recently I ended up pre-booking our transfers with Welcome Pickups , which were very reasonably priced (often cheaper than Uber) and wonderfully reliable. If you’re travelling with young children they’re also able to provide car seats and boosters so you can avoid the hassle of bringing your own.

Bring earplugs

I was recently given some Loop earplugs and they’ve been amazing for helping me drift off on a plane, reducing the din onboard to around 25 per cent of what it’d be usually. If you're a light sleeper, they could also be the simple key to getting a good night's rest when staying in a busy city. Likewise if you’re in a particularly noisy touristy spot and tend to get overstimulated, they might help you feel more comfortable.

Save money with an eSIM

You’ll likely get a better deal on data abroad by using an eSIM than your phone network’s roaming data plans. Case in point: a friend recently spent £26 on 120mb of data on a recent trip to Bali whereas I, smugly, paid less than £10 for 10gb via Airalo . My friend ran out of data in about two hours, while I was sorted comfortably for the whole week-long trip without fuss. You don’t even need to fiddle about swapping over SIM cards while you’re away as they’re digital – it’s a really great way to save money abroad. Here are our favourite eSIMS .

Wear a mobile phone strap

For snap-happy sightseeing days, I’ve come to appreciate having this crossbody strap . Taking 100-plus pictures a day is so much easier without having to fish your phone out of your bag or pocket every five minutes. It’s also far safer to keep your mobile attached to your person than to leave it loose in your pocket, where it’s at risk of being pinched. Using a phone bag is a similar good alternative.

Keep clothes fresh with washing machine sheets

Now, here's something new I discovered recently: washing machine sheets. To be clear, they’re not tumble dryer sheets, instead pre-loaded with a wash’s worth of detergent, packaged up dry in a lightweight box. They can be used in a sink when hand washing clothes while abroad, so pop a pack in your suitcase, and you can enjoy clean laundry for a tiny fraction of the cost of the hotel’s valet service. It’s a much better solution than buying detergent on holiday, which would be too heavy to bring home and a waste to leave behind. I’m a convert – these Spot Detergent ones are my favourite.

Stay comfortable in hot weather with anti-chafe shorts

Another item I’ve recently become enamoured with? Anti-chafe shorts . A recent trip sans shorts to the Maldives saw a pathetically low step count – hot weather plus swelling equalling a painful waddle wherever I went that left me making full use of the hotels’ buggy service. A week with very little exercise isn’t ideal, and I looked to find a solution for my next hot weather trip. I found it in these shorts: they’re lightweight, comfortable and invisible under dresses, with a band at the bottom that stops them from riding up your thighs. I was so much happier on my next trip to Bali, which was equally hot but left me with no miserable waddle. With trips to Paris and Italy on the horizon, they’ll absolutely feature in my suitcase – I will never travel in hot weather without them again.

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Extraordinary caution advised. Very high danger of dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps.

Stay indoors in air conditioning or a well-ventilated area away from direct sun exposure.

Outdoor activity is dangerous and potentially life-threatening.

Loose fitting, light colored cotton clothing is recommended.

Extreme caution advised. High danger of dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps.

Most outdoor activity is dangerous and potentially life-threatening.

Significant caution advised. Danger of dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps.

Most outdoor activity is dangerous, especially for older adults, infants, and those with sensitive medical conditions.

Caution advised. Danger of dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps if outside for extended periods, and especially while doing strenuous activities.

Minimize outdoor activity, especially for older adults, infants, and those with sensitive medical conditions.

Older adults, infants, and those with sensitive medical conditions, should minimize outdoor activity and stay indoors in air conditioning or a well-ventilated area away from direct sun exposure.

Caution advised. Possible danger of dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps if outside for extended periods, and especially while doing strenuous activities.

Older adults, infants, and those with sensitive medical conditions should minimize outdoor activity, especially in the sunshine.

Most consider this temperature range ideal.

Light jacket or sweater may be appropriate.

Jacket or sweater is recommended.

Coats and hats are appropriate, consider gloves and a scarf.

Caution advised. Older adults, infants, and those with sensitive medical conditions, should be well dressed to protect from hypothermia and frostbite. Coat, hat, gloves and a scarf are appropriate.

Caution advised. Frostbite to exposed skin within 15 minutes. Hypothermia likely without protective clothing.

Limited outdoor activity recommended. Wear winter clothing that covers as much of the body as possible.

Caution advised. Frostbite to exposed skin within 8 minutes. Hypothermia likely without protective clothing.

Outdoor activity can be dangerous and should be limited. Wear thick winter clothing that covers as much of the body as possible.

Significant caution advised. Frostbite to exposed skin within 2 minutes. Hypothermia likely without protective clothing.

Outdoor activity can be dangerous and should be limited. Wear thick winter clothing that covers nearly all exposed skin.

Great caution advised. Frostbite to exposed skin within 1 minute. Hypothermia likely without protective clothing.

Outdoor activity is very dangerous and potentially life threatening. Stay in a heated area or, if outdoor activity is necessary, it should be limited to a few minutes and only if all skin surfaces are covered.

Extreme caution advised. Frostbite to exposed skin within 30 seconds. Hypothermia likely without protective clothing.

Outdoor activity is extremely dangerous and life threatening. Stay in a heated area or, if outdoor activity is necessary, it should be limited to a few minutes and only if all skin surfaces are covered.

Extraordinary caution advised. Frostbite to exposed skin within 20 seconds. Hypothermia likely without protective clothing.

Outdoor activity is extraordinarily dangerous and life threatening. Stay in a heated area.

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What to Wear in Russia in Winter

Europe Packing List , Packing , Travel Packing Lists

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Our TFG readers have some of the best packing tips! If you’re wondering what to wear in Russia in winter, take a look at what they recommend you bring for your vacation.

Travel Fashion Help!

Reader Asks :

I’m heading to Russia this winter and could really do with some advice on what to pack for my trip. I’ll be there for two weeks visiting the main tourist areas like Moscow and St Petersburg and would like to pack carry-on only. Any suggestions on what to wear in Russia in winter?

Eliza J Faux Fur Coat | Ellen Tracey Faux Fur Down Coat

Winter in Russia tends to run from December to February and can make you feel like you’re in a snow-covered fairytale. The weather is generally cold and wet, and the streets of Moscow and St. Petersburg are likely to be covered in snow.

The temperatures in these areas can drop down to 14°F, and St. Petersburg can be considerably colder than Moscow, so you need to be ready for changing weather conditions.

These tips will help you pack for cold weather in a carry-on despite the weather.

Some winters in Russia can be extreme–the temperature can fall to -22°F. Always, always, always  research the weather for each location before you go to see what the average temperatures will be.

Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a travel capsule wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing.

Be prepared to wrap up warmly throughout this time of year and use plenty of layers to help you adjust to the changing weather.

Read this to learn exactly how to stay warm in cold weather !

Carson Pass II Jacket | Della Fall Mid Jacket  | Michael Kors Coat

To battle the wet weather, pack a raincoat that is big enough to allow you to wear layers underneath. Look for something that works double-duty such as a waterproof down jacket.

Sweater Dress | Izzi Tight

Wool and alpaca are great materials to pack for a winter in Russia; they don’t freeze when wet are are great in snowy environments. Read more about the best fabrics for travel in cold weather.

If you like wearing dresses, then opt for ones made with merino wool. We absolutely love Ibex dresses ! 

I practically wore this merino wool dress every single day in Paris!

Halogen Tunic Sweater | Sejour Neck Sweater | Ventura Sweater Dress

Pack some wooly tights to keep your legs nice and warm. Don’t be afraid to double up on tights, too. You can use this trick for any cold weather destination using tights of different thicknesses. Here are some tips on how to layer dresses !

A wool cardigan or hoodie is another way to layer under a raincoat. Use these tips on cold weather layering  to choose items that will keep you warm without the bulk. Just because an item’s fabric is thicker it doesn’t mean it will keep you warmer.

Ibex Woolies Crew Shirt | Ibex Woolies Bottom

Consider packing merino wool thermals like these to wear under your clothes, especially if you’re sensitive to the cold. These will keep you extra warm and barely need to be washed, making them an awesome addition to your travel wardrobe.

These are the warmest thermals !

Check Scarf  |  Nubby Blanket Scarf  |   Lightweight Square Scarf

Pack several scarves as these are ideal for accessorizing and can be used to cover up if you’re planning on doing some church visits (your head will need to be covered when entering churches). Opt for a versatile and fashionable blanket scarf that’s both practical and in trend, too.

Add these  stylish winter scarves to your collection!

Adirondack Waterproof Boot | Hoodoo III Winter Boot

Winter waterproof snow boots would be optimal for this trip, as they often have a strong grip on the sole and an inner lining to keep you extra toasty. If you’re heading out for dinner and want a dressier look, then pack a pair of leather ankle boots with grip to get you across slippery streets.

Avoid heels and don’t pack cheap shoes as you could easily slip over and the cold temperature could make the shoe soles freeze and split.

Halogen Scarf | Echo Gloves | Fold-over Beanie

Moscow and St. Petersburg can be covered in snow throughout the winter, so you’ll need shoes that are both waterproof and warm. Pair them with warm wool socks to keep your feet from freezing!

Don’t forget to finish off your cold weather wardrobe with hats and gloves. Here are some ideas!

What are your tips on what to wear in Russia in winter? 

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For more packing tips, please visit these Europe Packing Lists :

• The Ultimate Packing Guide for Europe
• How to Choose the Best Walking Shoes in Europe
• What to Wear in Paris in Winter
• Italy Packing List with Capsule Wardrobes

Suggested Travel Resources:

• Lonely Planet Russia (Travel Guide)
• Lonely Planet Russian Phrasebook & Dictionary

I hope you enjoyed this post on what to wear in Russia in winter. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

11 comments.

I am traveling to Russia(St. Petersburg and Moscow) and the Arctic Circle in January. I have a long heavy faux fur coat and a long down coat with a hood. Which one to take? Thanks. CSN, Cleveland

Hi Charlotte, to get you the best advice I have scheduled your question on TFG’s facebook page, our readers are the best at answering questions like this, so keep an eye out for their replies from Sunday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/ You may also find this post helpful: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/arctic-clothing-extreme-cold-weather-gear-for-women/ Hope this helps! Have an amazing trip!! 🙂

I spent two weeks in Moscow and then rode the trans-Siberian railroad in the winter of 1984, on my way home from Africa. With a few stops along the way to Japan. I carried only a mid-size backpack. My winter wardrobe was a pair of wool pants, the 13-button kind from the US Navy. Thermal long underwear (top and bottoms). Two button-up long-sleeved shirts, two cotton sweaters. Wool-lined short boots. Hat, scarf, mittens, and a waterproof unlined jacket. That was it. I rotated shirts and sweaters, but wore the same pants for about 2 or 3 months, with the long johns underneath (washed frequently). I was warm even at -70 F because I walked everywhere. Though my feet got cold walking on the ice on Lake Baikal.

And I wore these outfits to the Bolshoi ballet as well as the opera. It was winter, no one was dressing up.

Pretty much wore the same clothes in Japan, where it was still snowy and cold. By the time I got to Okinawa, it was warming up and I threw away the long underwear as well as the wool pants. Gave me more space in my pack for things I bought as I travelled Asia a bit.

Wow this sounds like an incredible trip Phebe! Thanks so much for sharing! I’ve been itching to do the Trans-Siberian!

I lived in Moscow for 6 years. I’d skip the raincoat and just take a waterproof down coat that goes down to mid thigh. You could have an umbrella for the snow if you really want, but it probably won’t be above freezing. Cardigans over a shirt and/or thermals are better than sweaters. Also, if you wear any boots but tall leather ones, you’ll stand out as a tourist. Leather ankle boots will most likely be cold. Treat the boots with leather protector before you go and stuff them with newspaper if they get wet. Double socks are recommended. Warm, furry inserts are even better. Skinny jeans or pants that you can tuck into the boots are better than bootcut ones because they won’t get so dirty.

Great advice! Thanks for sharing Carrie!

When you say tall, do we mean knee high or calf high?

I’ve taken 6 trips to Russia in the winter. Most important advice–dress in layers! It’ll be freezing outside but most buildings are over-heated inside. Also bring the warmest coat you have. Finally, winter starts before December. I was in St P a few years ago during the first week of November and it was snowing. By December it’s bitter cold.

Great advice! Thank you for the additions Rebecca!

I’d love to see something for packing for a Russian river cruise in May!!

I’ll add it to the list Julie! So many topic so little time! Thanks for reading!

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