13 best travel clothes and accessories for your next holiday
Looking good, travelling light and feeling comfortable - even long trips - can be done.
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For most people, the idea of a travel wardrobe can be pretty perplexing. Mainly because you want some degree of choice when it comes to what to wear but there are all sort of baggage restrictions to bear in mind.
So what clothes do you pack in the suitcase and which do you leave at home? The key words here are flexibility (the clothes not you - although we certainly won't judge if your idea of travel clothing is athleisure), hard wearing and the need to cut back on washing while away. Because who really wants to bother with that?
Relax, we've done the hard work for you with a capsule wardrobe to pack that will leave you free and comfy to enjoy your next trip. And you'll look good to boot. So haul down that suitcase, fire up that credit card and let's go shopping.
Our top picks
- Best men's pants for travel: Everlane The Performance Chino Traveler
- Best women's pants for travel: Lululemon Daydrift high-Rise Trouser Regular
- Best shoes for travel: Rothy's The Original Slip On Sneaker
- Best travel jacket for women: David Lawrence The Travelling Trench Coat
- Best women's jumper for travelling: Boody Unisex Crew Neck Sweater
Best men's pants for travel
The Performance Chino Traveler, Everlane, $197
Available in six colours (we especially rate the navy) and super soft, this stand-out item from what is an unquestionably great range is slim fit and lightweight. Even if you're travelling halfway around the world, the four-way stretch and elastic interior waistband will ensure comfort while cutting back on the need for washing.
Best women's pants for travel
Daydrift high-Rise Trouser Regular, Lululemon, $149
A staple in the perfect travel wardrobe, this brand is slowly but surely becoming a strong player in the the travel clothing space. These pants come in three colours, feature a smart pleated design and have two side pockets as well as a hidden card sleeve. The breathable material repels sweat and has a bit of stretch to it, while the elastic band is comfortable and flattering. Pair them with a classic white or black tee and wear them everywhere from the office to the plane.
Best shoes for travel
The Original Slip On Sneaker, Rothy's, $165
This item is for women but there are also a range of men's kicks available. The right shoes are essential on a vacation no matter where you are in the world and these slip-ons mean you don't have to faff about with unlacing and re-lacing at the airport checkpoint. You can wear these with a dress, jeans, tailored pants or shorts. They are machine washable and the knit is made from 13 recycled plastic bottles. Pop these shoes right at the top of your packing list and if you really want to be fancy, you can pair them with a lightweight cream jacket. A style choice of course if you find yourself on the Riviera.
Best travel jacket for women
David Lawrence The Travelling Trench Coat, Myer, $199
The puffer jacket will always have a place in our hearts but if you really want to up your travel wardrobe game when it comes to jackets, this is the ideal addition to any wardrobe. We love the button detail around the sleeves, the woven fabric and four pockets in the front for easy access to your phone. It's also one of the most versatile of fashion items as you can wear it with a dress to dinner or over smart pants for a winning outfit.
Best women's jumper for travelling
Unisex Crew Neck Sweater, Boody, $44.98
High on our list of travel clothes, we will always pack a sweater. No matter where in the world we are travelling. This unisex beauty from Boody can be dressed up or down, comes in three neutral colours (sand, black and dark olive) and is made from 41 per cent organic cotton. Sizes run from xxs to xxl and the fabric is so soft it's like cuddling a kitten. They're currently on a final sale at 50 per cent off. Get yours before it disappears off shelves for good.
"The fabric is somehow so cosy and also temp regulating at the same time, as well as buttery soft. I never want to take it off," one review said.
Best men's jacket for travelling
Bossanova Puffy Jacket, Helly Hansen, $500
This lightweight item of clothing is designed to be worn on the slopes but the truth is that it's equally at home on the street. There are three colourways (the navy is a winner) and a puff factor that sits between a puffer jacket and something sleeker. AKA, it's not too tight so you can layer accordingly. When it comes to packing, it can be stuffed into a corner of your rucksack or the overhead bin in the plane and you don't have to worry about it coming out looking the worse for wear. It's not cheap but quality rarely is.
Best socks for travelling
Paire Unisex Active Ankle Sock, Amazon Australia, $24
Nothing can ruin a day quicker than cold feet - especially if it's your wedding. Jokes. If constantly on the move Paire's high-tech ankle socks can do no wrong. Made from a mix of Merino wool and eucalyptus fibres, they're breathable and warm, moisture wicking and smell resistant. Travel writer Stephanie Yip is a huge fan, saying "you can go days without washing them and they won't stink. They don't blister either and they have these little tabs at the back to stop them from slipping down. I don't wear any other sock brand now but Paire."
Best women's shirt for travelling
Cotton On Haven Long Sleeve Shirt, The Iconic, $37.49
Looking to stretch your budget? The blue and white stripe is a bona fide colour classic for a holiday that's anywhere near the water while the oversize silhouette means it doesn't cling to the body too much. It's also made of a 55 per cent linen material so it's breathable and skims the skin. Roll up those sleeves to show that holiday tan on the plane on the way home and wear with white shorts.
Best women's t-shirt for travelling
Country Road Fitted Rib Short Sleeve T-Shirt, Myer, $59.95
The Australian-sourced cotton in this top means you're dealing with quality material and the mid-weight fabrication provides both structure and a breathable finish. The fitted design means it flatters the body and at the time of writing the three colourways here - navy, black and antique white - were getting ticks of approval all over the Escape office. The crew neckline and mid-length sleeve are further indications of the underplayed style and it also has just the right amount of stretch. Pair with that new blazer or vintage jacket we know you've been saving space for as a holiday purchase and left a hole for when packing.
Best crossbody bag for travel
Bellroy Venture Travel Crossbody, The Iconic, $189
It's not just about the clothes you will be wearing when it comes time to pack that suitcase. Accessories are important too. A stylish crossbody bag is an excellent investment as you won't have to worry about it being wrenched off your shoulder by thieves. And that's just the security aspect. This lightweight version, from an Aussie brand, is made from coated nylon so it repels rains and is one of its latest designs. The colour can go with myriad outfits from the classic to the fashion forward and will even keeping your tummy warm in the cold. Score.
Best swimwear for travel
Jets Sorella Geo minimal tank one-piece, The Iconic, $200
When it comes to flattering swimwear, it’s hard to go past Jets. Its classic minimal tank design now comes in some stunning new patterns.
Best cap for travel
Birds Snapback, Culture Kings, $47.95
Ball caps have never really gone out of style but they are having a serious moment right now. This one sits in the sweet spot between minimalism and too overt and the pre-curved brim and low profile crown ensure a snug fit when you're dodging the paparazzi. Or the rain.
Best sunnies for travel
Ray-Ban Mega Clubmaster sunglasses, The Iconic, $186
A classic mix of a Wayfarer and an aviator, these sunnies channel Riviera cool thanks to a slightly chunkier silhouette and ever-stylish green lenses with gold accents. They are best suited for those with oval and round shaped faces.
What are the best travel clothes?
The best travel clothes are all about low-care - as in not needing to be washed after one or two wears, versatility to wear in several settings or activities and packability so they don't take up too much space in your bags.
What brands of travel clothes are the best?
Some of the brands favoured by the Escape team include Everlane, Lululemon and Nimble.
What the best wrinkle resistant fabrics for travel clothing?
Nylon and polyester tend to stay crease free longest. Look for blends with cotton or linen for breathability and comfort.
What are the most versatile styles for travel clothes?
Look for brands and items that were actually designed for movement and sports but have been tweaked for daily wear. Lululemon's Throwback Still Pants is the perfect example.
See also:
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