The “Don’t Pack” List: What Not to Wear When Traveling Abroad

If you are preparing to travel abroad, you are probably planning on bringing lots of clothing, accessories and shoes for your trip. However, it’s important to ensure that you blend in with the culture as much as possible without standing out, so there are a few things that you shouldn’t pack in your suitcase. These are a few of the things that are better left at home when you’re traveling overseas.

Tourist T-Shirts

Although you might be excited about visiting a certain city or attraction, it’s best to avoid wearing T-shirts that mark you as a tourist. This means that you should wait to wear your souvenir T-shirts until you return home.

Shorts

A lot of cultures don’t really approve of people wearing shorts on a day to day basis, so don’t pack them unless you’re planning on playing sports when you’re abroad. Instead, wear light pants that won’t get too hot while you’re exploring.

Camera Equipment

It’s perfectly fine to want to take pictures when you’re traveling, but avoid wearing your camera around your neck or otherwise flashing it while you’re out and about in a foreign city. This can instantly peg you as a tourist.

Expensive Jewellery

Now is the time to leave your fancy jewellery at home. Feel free to bring along a few costume pieces, but don’t bring along your most dazzling and valuable necklaces or other jewellery. Otherwise, you could set yourself up to be a target for being robbed.

Baggy Jeans

Many cultures aren’t as casual as your own, so remember that when packing casual wear for your trip. In most cases, it’s better to wear something a little bit dressier than jeans. If you are going to wear jeans, make sure that they fit well and are neatly pressed rather than being torn or baggy.

Non-Conservative Clothing

Many areas are rather serious about dressing conservatively, and some people in foreign countries will feel offended and disrespected if you aren’t dressed properly. Make sure that you aren’t showing off too much skin when you’re out and about during the daytime. You may be able to wear more revealing clothing when heading out on the town in the evening, but make sure that you check out your surroundings first.

There are a few things that you are better off leaving at home when you’re traveling abroad. Remember not to pack these things, and you shouldn’t have to worry about not wearing the right clothing or shoes when you’re on your overseas trip.