by James Mackness

Created on: February 03, 2009   Last Updated: February 16, 2009

One of the most overlooking areas of trip planning is the travel day outfit. What is worn and carried on the day you go from home to exotic locale is vitally important and can affect safety, comfort, and convenience.

Consider all of the weather that you will be exposed to during your trip. Get the appropriate forecasts for your home area and wherever you are travelling, as well as any stopping points en route. Pay particular attention to temperature, humidity, rain or snow, and road conditions. You may find that your attire will have to be very flexible as the conditions at your destination may be very different than at home. Will you need a raincoat and umbrella at this end and a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen at the other?

The next thing to consider is your mode or modes of transportation and any limitations or requirements that they impose. Is the shuttle to your hotel air-conditioned? Do you have to do a lot of walking? Does the heater in your car work?

In any case, you will probably be sitting for a long time, whether in your car, on a bus, train, plane, or in waiting areas. Wear clothing that will be comfortable to sit in for hours on end. This is not the place for tight jeans that cramp bellies and crush more intimate parts. Wear loose clothing that will allow you to stretch and adjust your position.

It is a good policy to always wear layers of clothing. Temperatures can vary widely between indoors and outdoors, aircraft cabins and taxi cabs. A layered outfit will allow you to adjust to suit your comfort level. A layered outfit can also save you space in your luggage, by putting multiple items on your body instead of in your bag, especially if you wear some of your bulkier items. Also remember that the extra sweater you're wearing can be removed and used as a pillow if you need a nap.

Pockets are very important. On your travel day, you will have many small items on your person that you will need to access. Keys, tickets, passports, visas, maps, money, wallet, hand sanitizer, lip balm, and receipts are just the tip of the iceberg. You may want to carry most of these things in your purse or other bag, in which case, select one that has multiple pockets to help keep things organized. Otherwise, choose garments with multiple pockets. At least some of the pockets should have positive closures (such as zippers or magnetic closures) so that vital documents and articles are not lost.

Shoes deserve some special attention. Travelling shoes are sensible shoes. Choose

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