by Rosemary Redfern

Created on: June 24, 2009

One of the side effects of traveling is that the body, especially the feet and ankles, can swell. An outfit which fits comfortably in the bedroom at home can become too tight during the day. So the first consideration is comfort. Because temperature changes in different environments can vary, it worth wearing layers which can be added or removed. None of us feels temperature quite the same because of personal temperatures and states of health.

The reason for the journey will dictate the style of clothes. A family day out can mean casual, easy fitting clothes, a day's traveling with a business meeting at the end means selecting clothes which will arrive looking pristine end elegant. While we all intend to plan our wardrobes carefully, it often doesn't work out that way because something catches our eye when shopping and we end up with clothes which are nice but not always practical. For this reason, before traveling, it's worth ensuring you have some clothes which are comfortable and elegant. Regardless of the reason for the journey it is good for the moral to look good.

Flying can mean stripping off layers to go through airport security checks. Clothes which can be easily shed and put on in a hurry are best but this can limit what you really want to wear. Men's clothes are generally easier to remove and replace, women's can be such a variety of styles and shapes it becomes more complex. Check socks are without holes and that the old T shirt will bear scrutiny. when it isn't hidden by other clothes.

The fabrics you choose might have not be the linens and pure cottons which are so comfortable, because they crease easily and you arrive looking messy. Perhaps the answer is a mixture of fibers. Natural fibers have durability but man made fibres often stay smoother and wrinkle free. The texture against your skin will control what you choose, although soft, smooth fabrics are the easiest to tolerate when you get hot and sticky from just sitting.

Airports always seem to involve walking miles for some reason. Changing trains and buses can also mean walking. Taking into consideration the tendency of the feet and ankles to swell and the potential for exercise, foot wear choices require thought. In the summer walking boots seem hot but flip flops can come adrift on escalators. While it is easy to shed the shoes during the traveling bit, getting them back on at the end can be tricky. Flat shoes for women sound boring but are really safer. The young at better at this than older generations. Although they are bulky having a spare pair to change into will relieve the feet.

The colors you chose will reflect your personal taste and the reason for the journey but darker ones cover the marks from spills and small accidents. If you can find light, easily washed and iron free shirts and tops they are a boon to the traveler.

Learn more about this author, Rosemary Redfern.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.