At BonneGueule we love traveling, a lot (I'm writing to you from Montreal where I'm finishing a Master's degree).
As you can imagine, when it comes to packing, practical considerations come into play for the clothes you are going to wear. Especially if you are going to a hot country of tourism a minimum of sport, made of hikes, trekking and walks. Bringing your selvedge jeans is no use, nor are your Heschung combat boots... In such a case, I have already received a few emails asking me for advice on the subject.
So when Fabrice, a fellow travel blogger and globetrotter, spontaneously asked me to write an article on the subject, I accepted immediately. For once, we're putting jeans and well-cut shirts on hold: make way for lightness and practicality!
Some of you may soon be spending a trip to a foreign land, in the tropics.
So what should you bring in your suitcase so as not to be caught off guard when you get there? Here's a little memo to put in everyone's hands!
Whether you are a backpacker or a relaxed, relaxed traveler, in both cases, these recommendations apply. For my part, I am a fan of independent backpacking. Also, I travel with the minimum. So, I will not deal here with “number” but only with what is necessary. Then it's up to you!
General rules
- avoid synthetic clothing . Always prefer cotton from head to toe! Or denim. These clothes are indeed more pleasant in hot and humid weather. (note from Benoit: obviously, avoid selvedge fabrics when going to a hot climate, otherwise you risk transforming your jeans into a sauna)
- do not take khaki-colored or military-patterned clothing . This may be sensitive in certain regions…
- do you need glasses? Grab a spare pair ! Nothing ruins a trip more than ending up with your pair of broken glasses.
- provide a stock of lentils . In some countries, they are rare and expensive.
- prefer shorts and pants with large pockets that close. More effective against pickpockets. (note from Benoit: it is impossible to steal your phone from the front pocket of your jeans, but absolutely avoid using the back pockets to put your wallet or tickets, it's too risky)
Clothes, the essential:
- Shorts: avoid shorts that are too short , except in the hotel. Bermuda shorts are perfect. (note from Benoit: there are well-cut Bermuda shorts at Gap, H&M, Uniqlo, etc. But watch out for the pockets, which are sometimes cut like chinos, you easily lose your change when you're sitting)
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Light canvas pants or jeans . Essential. Even if you spend a lot of time in the square, visiting certain places of worship cannot be done in shorts. Question of respect. (note from Benoit: chinos are perfect for this use, but find their limits for more sporty use: hiking, etc.)
I have a preference for pants that you can turn into shorts. Very practical for saving space in your suitcase or backpack. Columbia, Millet or Lafuma offer very good quality models. (note from Benoit: I confirm, having done a little hiking in summer a few years ago, there are very well finished models, with technical fabrics which manage perspiration very well)
And then, when the trip takes place in an air-conditioned bus, it’s cool! In addition, you may have the opportunity to go to a more exclusive place in the evening.
- t-shirt, avoid tank tops 😉 If you go to areas where malaria is very present, dressing in long-sleeved t-shirts in the evening helps reduce the risk. (note from Benoit: look no further, go to Monoprix for this kind of part )
- underwear of course!
- a swimsuit . Even if the country does not have a maritime facade, there are still rivers, lakes and the swimming pools of certain hotels! Instead, bring swim shorts, which are more adaptable and more suitable for everywhere.
- a light poncho-like raincoat. It can sometimes rain a lot! (note from Benoit: personally, I recommend Aether Apparel clothing. It's expensive, but it's well made)
- a sweater . Even in hot countries, nights can be cool at altitude! And then, in certain air-conditioned buses, it is essential! (note from Benoit: in some countries, air conditioning is almost a sign of wealth, and as a result, they do not hesitate to air condition much more than necessary)
- sturdy sandals for walking. Avoid the first prices Quechua or Gosport style.
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a good pair of light shoes that hold your feet well . And goes everywhere. Ideal in my opinion for off-road travel. You will find them in the “hiking shoes” section of Decathlon chains. I have used the Salomons a lot which are very good value for money. The best? Colombia and Merrell. (note from Benoit: Merrell, in the 80s, launched a shoe, the Willderness, which was voted "Best shoe in the world" by a Backpacker Magazine...)
Also, take advantage of the sales to get a pair at a good price! Otherwise, Quechua is sufficient for a more modest budget. Generally speaking, don't hesitate to invest in a good pair of shoes, it's important!
Accessories
- a hat or cap. Essential. If you want a good quality hat, I recommend that you take a look at the Nature&Découvertes stores. You will find excellent quality ones.
- sunglasses for those whose eyes are sensitive to light. (note from Benoit: I consider a good pair essential, it's tiring for your eyes to be without protection all day)
- a money belt . As for the bananas, I find them too conspicuous. Some are fans of pouches around the neck. For my part, I find it not very comfortable. You will find them in Decathlon or Gosport stores. (note from Benoit: the money belt is definitely the most stylish option 😉
- a scarf against dust . If you rent a scooter it is very useful due to the dust on the roads. (note from Benoit: for small budgets, military surpluses are full of cheap scarves, but I do not recommend the keffiyeh for symbolic reasons, you never know...)
- flip flops for the shower . This will help you avoid getting foot fungus!
That's the minimum. You now have a checklist for your next trip! Have a good trip everyone 😉
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Fabrice has made several long-distance trips. This time he is in South America for more than a year. He recounts his travels on his blog Instinct Voyageur. A blog that allows him to finance his passion. You will find interviews, reflections, practical advice and good tips. He also offers The Traveler's Manifesto, a work of nearly 70 pages on travel and nomadic life.
Credits: Going into the desert in a Gucci suit is a really bad idea,
but I think this shoot is beautifully done.
