Equipment: Clothing and Travel Conditions

Travel Light!

Every traveller will tell you: we always pack too much, and not always what’s best for the trip ahead.

When it comes to clothing, as with everything else, there’s no point in overpacking. It’s better to focus on weight (and how things pack) and what you’ll actually need—depending on the type of trip, the climate, and whether you can buy things locally (though in some countries, finding what you want can be tricky). In short: pack light and practical—you’ll be glad you did!

Colours and Materials

Small details that can make a big difference.

Colours

For colours, dark shades are better than light (even if they’re warmer) for anything that’s likely to get dirty. Avoid military colours—they’re not always welcome in some countries. Also, keep in mind that certain colours or combinations can have specific cultural meanings (though it’s not always obvious).

Materials

For all your clothes, choose lightweight, durable fabrics that breathe and dry quickly (a good tip for rainy weather too). For some trips, opt for materials that offer the best cold protection (like Gore-Tex). Avoid leather in humid areas or seasons.

With advances in technology, specialised shops now sell clothes treated to resist bacteria, mosquitoes, or even limit UV penetration. The same goes for "quick-dry" fabrics.

The Right Outfit

Choosing What to Wear

This is an important factor, even for a simple leisure trip. Clearly, it’s best to prioritise practicality and function over looks or style.

Beyond that, your outfit can affect how well you blend in with local populations in certain regions (and not just the most remote ones!). This is especially true for women, who often benefit from following local trends or a neutral style—even if it means sacrificing aesthetics or practicality.

Generally, observing what’s around you once you arrive can help avoid mistakes. Some outfits that aren’t appreciated in one country may be perfectly acceptable in tourist zones (like beach resorts).

What to Avoid for Men

Some outfits or clothes for men (and sometimes women) aren’t always well-received in public: shorts (seen as children’s wear in some societies), swimwear outside beaches (true everywhere), militaro-Rambo-adventurer style (though it mostly gets laughs), overly hippie or "alternative" looks (especially at borders or with police), a scruffy appearance (same issues, plus Westerners are often seen as wealthy), traditional local outfits (can be funny or offensive), or activist/protest styles with badges or T-shirts for/against something (trouble likely if people feel targeted).

What to Avoid for Women

In addition to the above, depending on the place, avoid shorts, bikinis, low-cut tops, miniskirts, overly sexy or tight outfits, and be aware of which body parts are acceptable to show (or not) in different cultures. This also comes with certain behaviours to adopt (or avoid) in public.

"Special" Outfits

Or simply some specifics for those travelling by bike, motorbike, or going on long hikes or treks.

Cyclists

Motorcyclists

For Long Hikes or Treks

"Dressy" Outfits

Few people are actually affected, as most don’t travel to places requiring "very formal" attire. Still, it doesn’t hurt to pack a set of shoes, trousers/skirt, and top that are a bit dressier (even just linen trousers and something other than trainers can be enough).

However, those going on cruises or staying at all-inclusive clubs or hotels may need to plan for such outfits (sometimes even mentioned in brochures). But since they usually don’t travel with backpacks and can bring multiple suitcases (often with porters), they can pack accordingly.

The "Light Layer"

THE must-have for every trip (and often kept within reach), even in scorching hot places—if only because of air conditioning.

By Geographic Zones

Cold Countries

To stay warm, plan at least three layers of clothing. But first and foremost, protect your hands, head, and feet—they’re the most vulnerable. Pack gloves, hats, scarves, and thick socks. Hand warmers are also very useful for temporarily warming different body parts.

Base Layers (First Layer)

These keep your body at a good temperature and help you stay dry. Avoid cotton—it holds sweat and leaves you damp. Polyester or polypropylene are better and affordable. Silk is a natural fibre with unmatched comfort. Wool isn’t recommended for direct skin contact.

The Second Layer

This acts as a thermal regulator and provides necessary warmth. You can use a wool or polypropylene shirt combined with a jumper, fleece, or vest. In windy areas, opt for fitted clothes that don’t flap, and don’t forget a scarf or shawl to protect your face.

The Outer Layer

For comfort, choose a jacket (and even over-trousers in extreme cases) that protects against rain, wind, and snow. Modern fabrics like Gore-Tex are waterproof and breathable. The gear should be sturdy, durable (especially at the elbows and knees), and comfortable. Nylon jackets and trousers are cheaper but less effective.

Hot Countries

You can pack minimally and focus on sun protection (and sometimes wind or dust). Choose loose, lightweight, quick-drying, and compressible clothes that roll up easily in your bag. Cotton is ideal (T-shirts, trousers, etc.). You’ll find it everywhere at reasonable prices, so pack the minimum and restock along the way.

In some countries, you can also use local clothing adapted to the climate (sarong, pareo, etc.)—though avoid full traditional outfits.

Even in hot countries, don’t forget the light layer (if only for air conditioning).

Alternating Climates

Alternating between hot and cold zones or seasons is common, especially when varying altitudes.

First, research the climate conditions you’ll encounter and plan accordingly. However, unless you’re staying in the cold for a long time or it’s extreme, try to make do with your "base" gear and rent/buy second-hand extras locally. This avoids lugging things you’ll only use briefly. This is even more important for long trips. In such cases, consider donating, sending back, exchanging, or selling your cold-weather gear once you move to warmer areas.

Laundry and Cleaning

Washing

Unless it’s a short trip (a week to 10 days max), don’t expect to bring enough clothes to avoid laundry. Even if you handle the basics yourself, for the rest (trousers, shirts, etc.), you’ll need traditional laundromats (in cities or sometimes hotels) or, in many countries, local hand-washing services. For the latter, avoid delicate fabrics or those that shrink easily, and don’t expect your colours to stay vibrant.

As for bringing your own detergent (or bar soap), a small brush, and universal stain remover for tough stains—why not, if you want to handle your own laundry.

Drying

For drying, use laundromat dryers (or even hand dryers in toilets or hotel hairdryers) and/or pack a clothesline and pegs to dry your things at your stop. Alternatively, some clothes are now made with quick-dry materials.