When the countdown to vacation is on, you start daydreaming about what you’ll do. The places you’ll see, the food you’ll eat, and the things you’ll experience fill your mind. But it’s hard to know what to wear in every scenario when you’re packing for a trip. Mixing comfort and fashion is even harder.
With some careful planning and strategic decision-making, you’ll be able to accomplish that balance. It just takes some prep before embarking on your trip. Here are a few non-negotiable comfort staples every woman should consider bringing for her next travel opportunity.
1. Comfortable Underwear
Bras that dig in and underwear that refuses to stay in place are two of fashion’s most annoying experiences. You simply can’t have a great outfit if your base is ill-fitting and uncomfortable. So, invest time and energy into finding undergarments you love and want to wear every day.
Start by thinking through what you’ll be doing while traveling. If you’ll be hiking, biking, or participating in other outdoor activities, you’ll want to prioritize breathability. Opt for cotton underwear and supportive sports bras to ensure you’re able to move as needed. If you’re headed on a trip with plans to shop, bring a few skin tone wireless bras and pairs of underwear. That way, you can try on anything without being distracted by colors or patterns.
If comfort is your goal, you must start with what you wear under your clothes. Tailoring your undergarments to fit your vacation plans and personal preferences is key. That way, you know you won’t have to worry about any distractions or discomfort as you enjoy your time away.
2. Lots of Layers
Whether you’re traveling by car, train, plane, or another mode of transportation, one thing is consistent: varying temperatures. You could be overheating while loading your luggage into your car and then freezing when you reach your seat. That’s what makes dressing in layers so critical.
If you get too warm, you can simply remove a layer and cool off. The reverse is also true. Prioritizing layers in your travel prep gives you the flexibility to be comfortable. However, it’s not just temperature regulation you stand to benefit from. Layers also save much-needed space in your luggage so you can overpack strategically.
Multipurpose coats and jackets are a great addition to any fall or winter trip, but they’re bulky. You can bring more options if you wear these bigger pieces on travel days, leaving room for additional items. And that means you can bring even more comfortable options to maximize your vacation wardrobe versatility.
3. Adjustable Pants
All-you-can-eat buffets and gourmet meals are a big part of any foodie’s vacation. If you plan to immerse yourself and your taste buds in all the cuisines nearby, stretchy pants are key. They allow you the flexibility to indulge without digging into your abdomen.
That doesn’t mean you can’t be stylish, though. Many dress pant styles offer elastic waistbands at the back that can easily be covered with a belt or top. Denim that’s not super rigid or has multiple buttonholes can be adjusted to fit you throughout the day. Or style some trendy oversized cargo pants.
The goal is to find options that work for you all day long. When you’re in a new place, it’s only natural to explore and enjoy the food it offers. Pants that mix style and comfort play a big role in making that possible.
4. Matching Sets
When your trip is coming to a close, your options are limited. You probably rocked your favorite outfits early on, unable to conceal your excitement about wearing them. With those items already worn, you’re down to the leftovers. But you don’t have to be if you pack a matching set or two.
Even if your sets are literal sweatpants, a monochrome look is an elevated take on loungewear. They also have the benefit of being easy. You know they go together, so it’s as simple as deciding on a pair of shoes and going on your way.
Do yourself a favor and throw a few matching sets in your suitcase while packing. No matter how your trip goes, you’ll have built-in outfit options. And that makes for an easier, more relaxed trip no matter where you are.
5. Broken-in Shoes
It’s tempting to buy a new pair of shoes for an upcoming trip. They would look so great paired with your favorite outfit after all. But no amount of style is worth sacrificing the health and well-being of your feet while out of town.
Instead, see what shoes you already own that you know won’t hurt. They’ll prevent you from being slowed down while trying to enjoy your vacation. Plus, you can challenge yourself to find new ways to wear shoes you already have in your closet.
Forgoing new shoes isn’t easy, especially if you’re a shoe lover. However, the blisters, raw skin, and discomfort of new shoes when traveling aren’t worth it. Save the new shoe purchase for when you’re home and are able to put on a more comfortable pair if needed. If you have a new pair you really want to bring on your trip, test out some tips to break in new shoes. That way, you can evaluate how comfortable they are before you leave town.
Enviable Travel Style
Narrowing down what to bring on trips is never easy. However, if you know that comfort is your priority, it helps to have some go-to options to bring. With these versatile, comfortable staples in your bag, you’ll be more than ready for your trip to start.
