by Jane Ward

Created on: January 29, 2009   Last Updated: June 24, 2009

Your best traveling day outfit is your most comfortable outfit. Period. I don't care who is meeting you at the airport that you want to look pretty for, wear something that you're comfortable in. See also: not terribly valuable and easily washable. That cute little sundress isn't going to look so nice stained with sweat and coffee anyhow.

Be aware of your mode of transportation: Are you going by plane or train? In the summer these are often over-air-conditioned so dress a little more warmly than you normally would. Anything that leaves your legs bare is inadvisable anyway, because sitting down for long periods of time can make your legs chafe. Likewise, wear closed-toed shoes, as these tend to be more comfortable and supportive for walking, and leaves your better protected if you stub your toe, get stepped on by other busy travelers, or step in a puddle.

Your top half is easier to clothe because it is easier to add or remove blankets or layers as needed. Also, the top of your body does participate in sitting and walking as much. Also, the chafing principle holds true on your back as well, so you may want to rethink the halter top, or at least have a sweater on hand to throw over it in case of uncomfortable seat-back material or a temperature drop.

Sweaters or other "layer" items should be easily transportable if you choose not to wear them, for example the type of thing you can tie around your waste, or that you've made extra room for in a carry-on bag. They should also not be expensive-looking because they are easily stolen or dropped in dirty areas. Invest in one of those cool jackets that fold into their own pocket maybe.

What else is the weather going to be like? Are you going to need mittens? A hat? Sunglasses? Choose accessories that can hang around your neck or get clipped to other articles of clothing when you're not wearing them. This reduces your risk of leaving them on a bench somewhere and losing valuable time retracing your steps to hunt them down.

Once your have selected a few outfit options that are comfortable and protective, think of what has the most efficient pockets. When travelling, I always spread my cash around, that way if I lose something or am pick-pocketed, I don't lose everything. Choose pants that aren't so tight you can't access the pockets, either. Picture this: you have a bag in your hand, one over your shoulder, and one rolling behind you. You're fighting your way through a crowd of people and your absolutely parched. There in the distance you spot it: a vending machine. You're going to want a few small bills in an easily-accessible pocket for the most efficient way of making the transaction and getting on your way.

We all know what it's like digging around at the bottom of a bag for change, Kleenex, tickets and whatever else was inappropriately stored while the rest of the hurried travelers bump into you and give you dirty looks. So make sure you have pockets that will store what you need without it falling out!

Ladies, maybe you like to keep cash in your bra. This is a great spot, as it's less likely that cash will fall out or be stolen here than say, a back pocket. If you're gonna do this, plan ahead: wear a V-neck, not a turtleneck. It may seem obvious now, but in the rush of last-minute packing, the simplest things can fall by the wayside.

If you follow these tips, use common sense and plan ahead, you can save yourself a lot of time and frustration on travel day. Good luck!

Learn more about this author, Jane Ward.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.