As we reach the holiday season, many of you out-of-staters may be booking flights, train rides, bus rides—whatever is cheapest/fastest. Holidays are already a stressful time, and traveling alone can only add to this. Trust me, I know. There’s one thing that may be on the backburner as you run around to pack those last minute scarves and battle with your printer to squeeze out that last bit of ink from the semester to print your itinerary: what are you going to wear?
Most of us don’t even think about this until our suitcase is closed and all we have left is summer clothes in our closet. Don’t let this happen to you! Plan ahead! I know this is another step to add to a stressful pre-holiday week, but I promise that you won’t regret it. Here are a few tips to make the planning process easier for you:
Let’s Start from the Bottom and Work Up: Shoes
• Always wear shoes that are easy to get on and off in security, but aren’t flimsy enough that you can’t book it to wherever you need to be. Flip flops are usually not best for this, so go with a pair of slip-on shoes, like Toms or flats, that are both comfortable and practical.
• NO HEELS. Heels are a HUGE no-no in the travel world. We’ve all seen that poor girl who’s struggling with her luggage while also trying to look like she doesn’t have killer blisters in those heels that she’ll be stuck in all day. Don’t be that girl!
• Closed-toe shoes are usually your best option. Not only will these help you avoid getting your toes stepped on, but they’ll also keep your tootsies nice and warm on that icy flight of yours!
Next Step: Pants
• Comfort is VERY important. You never know when luggage will get lost, and you don’t want to be stuck in something that you wouldn’t want to wear again. Plus, you’re going to be in the airport, on the plane, train, etc. basically all day, so make sure you’re in something that looks cute, but you could also sleep in! Comfortable jeans, leggings or yogas are the best options for this. And you can always pack a nicer outfit in your carry-on for later!
• Stay away from shorts, skirts or dresses. Again, you never know when you’ll be stuck in a chilly situation. Plus, who wants to run to catch a plane in a dress?!
• Avoid anything that requires a belt. Remember, if you’re wearing jeans, you might need a belt, which is an added hassle in security. We’re going for convenience here!
Lastly and Most Importantly: What to Wear on Top!
• Avoid the layers. I know layers are popular this season, but I promise you will not be popular with the security men if you’re standing there stripping off layer upon layer for five minutes. Your goal is to make it through security as quickly as you can; time yourself next time! This will help you realize how unnecessary that extra cardigan or sweatshirt is; just pack it in your carry-on!
• If you’re seriously worried about looking fashionable or staying warm, a scarf will class up any outfit. No matter how bummy you’re looking (although I highly suggest you try to look at least A LITTLE put together), a scarf will always make it look like you put in a little extra effort that morning. It will also prevent any wardrobe mishaps while you’re bending over to take off your shoes or grab something out of your bag.
• Wear something that doesn’t wrinkle or snag easily. Whether you’re meeting family, friends, or a business associate, it’s always nice to look as fresh and neat as you can at the end of a long day of traveling. Plus, you never know who you’re going to meet along the way! Don’t wear anything that will snag while you’re shifting luggage around; this will just frustrate you and unnecessarily ruin one of your favorite tops! Also, try to wear something that will stay wrinkle-free on your journey. You’re going to be moving around and sitting down a lot!
Photo Credit: Blogspot