The Wayfaring Woman: Six Savvy Must-Haves for the Versatile Tourist

Whether you’re looking to do some overseas urban exploring, hitting the high desert, or heading to monsoon country, the key to any great touring vacation is adaptable packing: from lightweight rain gear to comfortable options for dressing up or going casual. Luckily, the modern modish woman has a lot more alternatives than grandma did when it comes to packing fashionably and functionally. Check out these six versatile trends in the wanderer’s wardrobe.

1. The Infinity Scarf

Infinity scarves have recently become a major fashion trend, and they make a great choice for travel gear. These simple looped scarves can be casually tossed over just about any outfit, stylishly knotted for a more formal look, or even pulled over your head and worn as a hood. Try to choose a versatile pattern that will complement anything you might wear. Another travel advantage of the infinity scarf: since it stays looped, it will be much harder to lose track of it!

2. UV-Protective Clothing

From breezy safari shirts to comfy cargo pants, pocketed vests, and even skirts, dresses, and wraps, many travel outfitters now carry clothing made from UV-resistant materials with UPF ratings ranging from 30+ and up. For maximum comfort and easy packing, look for a loose fit, breathable fabrics, and of course, wrinkle-resistance!

3. Pocket and Purse-Friendly Umbrellas

When you’re trying to pack light toting an umbrella around can be awkward–but getting caught in the rain without one can be even worse! Purchasing an ultra-compact umbrella can be a great investment for the frequent traveller. However, just because you are looking for something lightweight doesn’t mean you should skimp on sturdiness. Make sure to find an umbrella that is small enough to stow in a pocket, purse, or carry-on, but still built for easy, rugged use.

4. Convertible Cargos

Cargo pants have become a touring staple for men and women alike. Plenty of pockets, breathable, lightweight materials, and sturdy stitching make cargos perfect for backcountry exploration and urban sightseeing alike. And, for maximum packing efficiency, many outfitters carry convertible cargo pants that unzip at the knee, allowing you to change into shorts without having to change your clothes.

5. Insect-Repellent Apparel

Whether you’re planning a backpacking adventure or a warm-weather getaway, mosquitoes, ticks and flies can make the most picturesque locales near-unbearable without some kind of protection. Bug-be-gone sprays can be smelly, oily, and uncomfortable, and they can lose their effectiveness quickly. Recently travel retailers and outdoor outfitters have begun carrying clothing that actually has a man-made insect repellent woven into wearable (and washable) fabrics–including pants, socks, shirts, and even summer dresses!

6. The Contemporary Clog

From navigating airport security to long days of walking tours, sightseeing excursions, and destination dining, you need a shoe that can handle it all while dressing up or down. When packing space is at a premium, a good pair of clogs makes a great, versatile travel choice. A simple slip-on design lets you easily remove shoes when passing through security checkpoints, thick soles provide maximum support and comfort for your feet, ankles, and knees, and rubber outsoles will let you trek across any urban terrain without worry. Additionally, with so many stylish options for modern clogs you should be able to find a gorgeously street-chic shoe that’s comfy enough to wear casually.