How I Plan My Travel Wardrobe for Style, Comfort & Epic Photos
Capsule wardrobe pieces, exploring Palau, in Micronesia.
Let’s face it, what you wear while travelling can make or break your trip. It’s not just about comfort or being prepared for all the weather, it’s also about creating those jaw-dropping photos you’ll look back on for years.
I didn’t always get this right. I used to pack based on what I liked, not where I was going. My suitcase was full of bold prints, bright colours, and mismatched chaos. But over time, I discovered the power of a well-planned travel wardrobe… one that’s both functional and photogenic.
So here’s exactly how I plan my outfits when I travel. No fluff. Just real-world tips that help me look good, feel comfortable, and get the shot.
My Go-To Travel Outfit for Flights
No matter the length of the flight, comfort is key.
My flying uniform includes:
Black active tights and a crop top (LSKD, Nimble or Ryderwear)
Charcoal LSKD cropped singlet
Denim jacket (or black puffer if it’s extra cold)
White sandshoes
Warm socks for long haul
A lightweight scarf (a total travel MVP)
Hot tip: Planes are always colder than you think. Dress in layers and pack socks… even for short flights.
Packing the Essentials: The Capsule Travel Wardrobe
I plan my wardrobe around neutral tones, capsule pieces and a few versatile sets. Earthy tones, whites, and soft beiges make up the bulk of my travel outfits.
Why?
They match almost anything
They don’t clash with epic backgrounds
They photograph beautifully
Capsule Wardrobe Must-Haves:
1 pair of shorts + 1 pair of long pants (linen for warm climates)
Comfy jacket + scarf
Mix-and-match tops
Jeans (weather dependent)
Lightweight oversized linen shirt (e.g. beige button-up)
Sets you can break up
Playsuits
Swimwear (yes, even in winter)
Sandals, boots & sometimes runners
Hat + minimalist accessories
Personally, I love a playsuit. It’s an outfit in one, and can easily be dressed up or down depending on the destination or occasion... AND they’re wind-proof! There’s nothing worse that trying to live in the moment at a bucket list destination when you’re trying to hold down a skirt or dress from the wind. My white playsuit is the most versatile and even looks cute with hiking boots or a denim jacket.
My fave white playsuit and white (and gold) scarf in the Sahara Desert, Morocco. Works for almost any backdrop.
Dressing for the Destination
I research my destinations visually (usually on Instagram), and plan outfits based on the backdrop.
A few real examples:
Santorini: Mostly blue & white buildings. I wore red to stand out.
Sahara Desert: Red/orange sand. I wore white with black boots.
Wadi Rum, Jordan: Red dirt. I wore white jeans and a maroon top for the perfect contrast.
Northern Territory: Muddy water + red dust. I wore yellow swimwear to pop in the photo but not stain easily.
My fave red playsuit in Oia (Santorini, Greece) at sunrise. Can I have that tan back please?
Footwear That Works Hard
I don’t bring heels (anymore)... Ever.
What I do pack:
Brown sandals (they match my backpack and camera bag)
Black vegan boots (comfortable, stylish, hiking-friendly, and photo-friendly)
White sandshoes (comfortable and photo-friendly)
Lightweight runners (for workouts, or longer walks… not for photos - this is a ‘sometimes’ item for me)
Flip flops (thongs for my fellow Australian’s) if there’s a beach or pool involved, for practicality.
If I’m stopping for a great photo while wearing runners, I’ll literally go barefoot for the shot. #Priorities
The Extras That Make a Difference
Jewellery: One necklace (usually waterproof from Atolea) and a simple gold watch
Bags: My matching brown backpack and camera bag from Taz + Tez
Hats: One wide-brim hat (somehow still white despite red dirt adventures!)
Underwear & PJs: I always overpack these… they’re small, light, and I don’t like re-wearing
The Mindset Shift
This isn’t about dressing up. It’s about being intentional. I pack less, but better. And I choose outfits that make me feel confident and let the destination shine.
A white dress is a staple and covers shoulders and knees for cultural sensitivity (though I could clearly have used an iron).
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