Here in San Diego we sometimes have 80 degree days immediately followed by 60 degree days, and the traveler needs to pack for a range of temperatures. But traveling from one climate to the next – where temperature changes can be extreme – can take a toll on the weight of your luggage, not to mention burn a hole in your wallet. It is helpful to carefully consider wardrobe options while packing when moving through different weather regions.
Items that can be layered and interchanged from one temperature to another work best for smooth weather transitions. Always have plenty of basic items in neutral colors that can be mixed and matched and paired with more climate-specific items. Some key items to include are:
- Hats of any sort are the essential all-season accessory. Ball caps and visors are helpful for keeping those sunny day rays out of your eyes. They are equally helpful in colder climates when it comes to keeping the rain and snow off of your face. More work-appropriate and stylish hats can also protect your face and shoulders from the sun or keep your head warm in the cold and wind.
- Scarves are a great double duty accessory. Seen as more of a fashion item in warm climates, scarves become instantly useful in cold climates and provide a helpful go-between during travel or those unseasonably cool days. Scarves are also excellent airplane buddies – use it to cover your eyes to sleep or balled up as a pillow.
- For the ladies, leggings are a handy clothing item to incorporate into your climate-ready wardrobe. Neutral colors such as black or grey add a sleek addition under a dress. Throw them on under pants in colder environments for added warmth (think long underwear in a pinch). For moderate temps, use leggings as a fashion statement under a skirt or t-shirt style dress. The versatility of leggings has vastly expanded with the addition of lengths and patterns; not to mention they take up very little space in the suitcase.
- Dresses travel well and accommodate varying temperatures. Wear only the dress with open shoes for warm weather or add a sweater and tights/leggings for cooler weather.
- Boots work wonders in just about any temperature. Pick up a pair that works as a fashion statement to be incorporated into your work wardrobe, but also function well in colder weather.
- Sunglasses may be an accessory, but do not take them for granted. Keep your eyes covered no matter the temperature because the sun’s harmful rays can still get to you on those cloudy days. Don’t forget that snow maximizes the sun’s rays, so some sunscreen on the face isn’t a bad idea either.
- The button down dress shirt is key to any wardrobe regardless of gender and climate. Layer with a tee or tank underneath and a suit jacket over top.
- Vests work well in both warm and cold environments. Over the years, the concept of the vest has expanded to offer a wide variety of options. Choose the suit vest to go under your jacket for a day in the office and lose the top layer for after work drinks. The fleece vest is perfect for those chilly days that don’t require a jacket. Opt for a lightweight jacket that turns into a vest for a seasonal transition. The thicker vest with multiple pockets is great for outdoor adventures, such as hiking or running. Add a sweatshirt underneath for warmth. Choose a windproof and waterproof vest for rainy locales such as Seattle.
Remember that layering is essential to multiplying your wardrobe options and being the most comfortable no matter where you wind up. Choose pieces that can be incorporated into two or more outfits. Keep future weather conditions in mind and pack accordingly.
Image courtesy of Boise Style