CLOTHING
THE EXPERT
Jenny Cusick, director of Lightweight Traveller, a store of travel clothes and equipment
THE QUOTE
“Your clothing has to not only look good, but keep you comfortable in your travels,” she says. “Plan to use every item you take with you. I always feel pleased with myself when I arrive back and realise that I have!”
THE ADVICE
1. For fewer trips to the laundry, pack some lightweight fast-drying Exofficio underwear, which has the tag “17 Countries, 6 weeks, One pair of underwear (okay, maybe two)”, and a leak-proof 40ml bottle of concentrated laundry wash from Sea to Summit. You can wash your undies, wring them out in a towel, and have them ready to wear in a matter of hours.
2. Choose performance clothing for your travels so you get much more out of them. Lightweight, easy care, quick drying, no ironing, moisture wicking and wrinkle resistant are the first requirements then, depending on the item, look for sun protection, ventilation, stain resistance, water resistance and even insect protection labels. Leave cotton at home.
3. Plan your wardrobe with the layering system in mind. Have a first layer next to your skin that can be worn by itself in the heat, then become the base layer when you move to cold climates, with mid-layers for different situations and insulation, and ending with a waterproof, windproof jacket with a hood.
4. Choose colours carefully, so you have more combination choices. Basic black, beige or grey can be brightened up with colours and use accessories such as a scarf to give yourself a new look.
5. Pack so you have easy access to your clothes and avoid constantly searching. Packing cubes of different colours and sizes with rolled items in them and a garment folder for shirts will keep your clothes organised, accessible and looking good, while compression bags are great for dealing with bulky items such as a down jacket.
