We’ve all been there. You’re standing in front of your open suitcase, a chaotic explosion of clothes on your bed, trying to solve the puzzle of what to pack for your next big adventure. It’s one of the most exciting parts of travel preparation, a tangible step toward the journey ahead. We pack for the weather, for the activities, for the photos. But what about packing for respect, for safety, or for rules we might not even know exist?
Some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations come with their own unique dress codes. This isn’t about fashion; it’s about function, culture, and sometimes, survival. Forgetting a crucial piece of clothing can mean more than just being uncomfortable—it can mean being denied entry to a sacred temple or putting yourself at risk in a harsh environment.
So, let’s talk about those incredible places that ask for a little more thought in the wardrobe department and how you can prepare for them without sacrificing your personal style.
Dressing for Devotion: Temples, Mosques, and Sacred Grounds
One of the most common reasons for a specific dress code is cultural and religious respect. If your travels are taking you to the serene temples of Southeast Asia or the magnificent mosques of the Middle East, your packing list needs to include modest attire.
Where: The Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, the temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, Vatican City, monasteries in Bhutan.
What to Pack: For both men and women, this generally means covering your shoulders and knees. Think lightweight long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or full-length skirts. For entering mosques, women will also typically need to cover their hair with a scarf (a pashmina is a great, versatile travel accessory for this).
A Personal Touch: Let’s be real, sometimes “modest” travel clothing can feel a bit bland. This is where you can get creative! On a trip to Thailand with a few friends, we knew we’d be visiting a lot of temples. Instead of buying generic elephant pants, we designed our own custom printed shirts. We chose a lightweight, breathable cotton fabric and had them printed with a subtle, minimalist design of a lotus flower. They were perfect—respectful, comfortable in the heat, and a unique souvenir from our trip. It felt like we were honoring the culture while still holding onto a piece of our own identity.
Conquering the Climate: From Frozen Tundras to Scorching Deserts
Mother Nature doesn’t mess around, and in some parts of the world, your clothing is your first line of defense against the elements.
1. The Icy Wilderness of Antarctica or the Arctic
Where: Antarctica, Greenland, Northern Norway.
What to Pack: The key here is layering. You’ll need a moisture-wicking base layer (merino wool is fantastic), a fleece mid-layer for insulation, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer (jacket and pants). Don’t forget thermal socks, waterproof gloves, a warm hat, and UV-protective sunglasses for the glare off the ice.
2. The Sun-Drenched Expanse of the Sahara
Where: Morocco, Egypt, Jordan.
What to Pack: It might seem counterintuitive, but covering up is essential in the desert. You need loose, breathable, light-colored clothing to protect your skin from the relentless sun and to help keep you cool. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are non-negotiable.
A Personal Touch: A friend of mine went on a camel trek in the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan. Her group decided to get custom printed shirts for the journey. They chose a moisture-wicking, light-tan fabric and had them printed with a cool, stylized graphic of a camel train and the words “Wadi Rum Survivors.” It was a fun way to build camaraderie and made for some absolutely epic photos against the red sand dunes. The shirts were practical for the heat and served as a fantastic memento of their shared adventure.
Gearing Up for Adventure: Safaris and Jungle Treks
Sometimes, the activity itself dictates the dress code, especially when wildlife is involved.
Where: The Maasai Mara in Kenya, the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil, the jungles of Borneo.
What to Pack: For an African safari, neutral colors are a must. Bright colors can startle the animals, and dark colors (especially blue and black) are known to attract tsetse flies. Think khaki, beige, olive green, and brown. For the jungle, long sleeves and pants are crucial to protect against insect bites and scratches from plants. Look for insect-repellent clothing for added protection.
A Personal Touch: This is another perfect opportunity to have some fun with your gear. If you’re planning a big family safari, why not create safari-themed custom printed shirts in a nice khaki color? You could add a checklist of the “Big Five” animals on the back for everyone to tick off. It’s a playful touch that gets everyone, especially kids, excited about the experience while still adhering to the practical color guidelines.
A Final Thought on Packing
Traveling thoughtfully is about more than just seeing new places; it’s about engaging with them respectfully and preparing for them intelligently. The clothes you pack are a fundamental part of that preparation.
So next time you’re planning a trip, dig a little deeper than just the weather forecast. Think about the culture, the environment, and the adventures you’ll be having. Seeing your wardrobe as part of the experience, rather than just a necessity, opens up a new level of creativity and connection to your journey. And who knows? Your new favorite travel story might just be about the shirt on your back.
