As a fashion and travel blogger, I’m always collecting travel hacks that will help me to travel better. In general, feeling comfortable and stylish while on the road is always top of mind, and if I can look great for a photo in the process, that’s always a bonus.
Whether you’re a fashion blogger planning for a long-term trip, or you just want to look good in your travel photos, (or even while walking through the airport!), these fashion travel hacks are for you. Simple travel hacks like planning your outfits ahead of time, and researching trending styles in your destination of choice can help you to not stand out like a tourist. Not to mention, there’s nothing quite like looking and feeling your best while you make epic travel memories. Below, I’m sharing some of the best fashion and travel hacks that I’ve collected over the years. Hopefully, they will help you to feel put together even while on the road.
The Nomade Edit of the 13 Best Fashion + Travel Hacks That Will Help You To Look Stylish While Traveling:
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1. Create A Go-To Comfortable & Stylish Travel Outfit
For short flights, my go-to airport outfit includes a pair of black denim, or fitted trousers with a stretch, and a sweater. A someone who tends to be cold on airplanes, layering is key. I always wear full-length pants or jeans, but will sometimes layer a tank top with a cardigan. That way I have the option to remove layers if it gets too warm.
I find that the trick to styling an airport outfit is choosing items that are comfortable, yet tailored. That said, if comfort is your highest priority and you prefer to wear a loungewear set, it’s all about the styling. Choose shoes, accessories, and a hairstyle that ties the outfit together, even if it’s on the casual side.
For longer flights, I skip denim altogether and go straight for a pair of fitted trousers with a stretch. They’re much more comfortable for when you’re seated in economy for long periods of time. I’ll pair them with a top, a knit cardigan, and a pair of comfortable chic sneakers. I always opt for closed-toe shoes when traveling. Not only for my own comfort and to keep my feet warm, but for that of other passengers. It’s always a good idea to keep etiquette in mind when choosing your travel outfit.
2. Plan Outfits Based On Your Itinerary
This might seem obvious as far as travel hacks go, but let’s break it down a little further. Because a lot of my traveling is centered around photography and photoshoots, I’m always thinking of which outfits will best suit the location, not only in terms of comfort but also in terms of aesthetics. It’s never appealing to tour around a new city in shoes you can barely walk in, so practicality also plays a big role in this.
One of my favourite fashion travel hacks is to use Pinterest to get outfit inspiration for various locations. You can also Google or look up local Instagram accounts to get an idea of how locals dress where you will be traveling. This will help you to blend in a little bit more like a local. Not to mention, you will avoid making any cultural missteps when it comes to fashion choices.
After you’ve done this, write out your travel itinerary and match outfits to each activity. This will help you to be more organized and will take any guessing out of getting ready while you’re traveling.
3. Pack A Travel Capsule Wardrobe
If you’ve never heard of a capsule wardrobe, it is a curated selection of clothing items that can be assembled for a particular lifestyle. For example, you can create an everyday capsule wardrobe, a travel capsule wardrobe, or even a seasonal capsule wardrobe. They’re an absolute game-changer for frequent travelers because they save so much time and space in your luggage. Read our capsule wardrobe guide here. You can also download our capsule wardrobe checklist for free here.
Having a go-to travel capsule wardrobe is great in terms of travel hacks. This is because it takes the guesswork out of getting ready. It’s also a super-efficient way of packing because it saves so much space in your luggage. With a capsule travel wardrobe, you never overpack, and everything in your bag is put to good use.
A few tips for creating the perfect travel capsule wardrobe:
- Choose a colour palette and stick to it. This makes it much easier to mix and match.
- Stick to a certain number of clothing items. It’s not a capsule wardrobe if you patch your entire closet!
- Pack multi-purpose clothing items. Ex: a maxi dress that can be worn as a beach cover-up, or dressed up for a night out.
4. Pack Multi-Purpose Clothing Items
As mentioned above, multi-purpose clothing items can be great for getting more outfits out of fewer items. Check out this convertible dress from EIV the label, which can be deconstructed into a top and skirt separates. It’s also a good idea to pack items that can easily be dressed up or down. That way you only have to pack one item that works for multiple occasions.
5. Do Your Hair Before Traveling
Actually having your hair done, instead of just throwing it up in a messy bun, can make you feel so much more put together while traveling. This is also where packing a small hairbrush and dry shampoo in your carry-on can come in handy. Using travel-sized hair tools can also be a great way to save space in your luggage.
6. Wear Minimal Makeup
Minimal makeup is easier to maintain than a full face, especially during long travel periods when there aren’t any mirrors in sight. It’s also a lot easier on your skin, which is already prone to breakouts when you’re not following your regular skincare routine. Check out our minimalist travel makeup kit here.
A travel makeup kit not only saves space in your luggage but also makes getting ready so much more simple. I like to organize my makeup in a transparent makeup kit so that I can see exactly where everything is.
7. Bring An In-Flight Self Care Kit
Part of looking good is being well-rested. I like to bring a few items that will help me feel comfortable and sleep well, especially during long-haul flights. This includes earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, a sleep mask, face wipes, and compression socks or tights.
8. Create A Travel Skin Care Routine
It’s important to stay on top of your skincare routine, even while traveling. And while I normally wouldn’t recommend makeup remover wipes, because they tend to be rough on your skin, traveling with them can be a lifesaver.
A few of my must-have travel skincare items include:
9. Pack Makeup And Toiletries In Your Carry-On
This goes without saying, but it’s a good idea to keep all of your essentials in your carry-on or hand luggage, in case anything happens to your check-in luggage. I like to keep things like makeup, a toothbrush, and skincare products in my carry-on for easy access in case I want to do any touch-ups. It’s a good way to stay fresh, especially on a long-haul flight.
10. Bring A Travel Jewelry Organizer
Switching up your jewelry is a simple fashion travel hack that takes minimal planning and effort. Jewelry is such an easy, lightweight way to switch up your outfits, and it takes up almost no space in your luggage. Your accessories can elevate any outfit with minimal planning. A travel jewelry case is a great way to keep all of your jewels organized, and you’ll avoid tangling your necklaces in the process.
11. Pack Comfortable & Stylish Shoes
As we know by now, traveling in style is just as much about comfort as it is about fashion. You could be wearing the chicest pair of heels, but if you’re struggling to walk, it’s not the best look! Pack comfortable shoes that can be paired with the outfits you’ll be wearing on your trip. These can double as your travel shoes as well.
12. Wear Minimal Accessories
While jewelry is a great way to change up your outfits, it’s best to keep your accessories minimal while en route to your destination. This makes you less of a target for pickpockets – especially if you’re still getting to know a new city. If you accidentally wander into the wrong area of town, you won’t have to worry about your flashy jewelry or handbag. Keep your expensive statement pieces for the occasions where you’re headed to a party, taking photos, and generally know where you will be, and who you will be around.
13. Pack A Change Of Clothes In Your Carry-On
It’s never fun to lose your luggage. One of my go-to travel hacks is to pack a change of clothes in my carry-on. This at least gives me the chance to change into something fresh when I arrive at my destination, on the off chance that my luggage is delayed.
In addition to this, if you’re traveling for a special event, always make sure to pack important outfits in your carry-on. For example, if you’re the bridesmaid at a wedding, you wouldn’t want to risk your dress being lost with your check-in luggage!
Looking for more fashion and travel hacks, tips, and guides? Follow @nomadeandmode on Instagram.
I am preparing to go to Paris in a couple of weeks. No matter how often I travel, I am always looking for better and more efficient ways to travel. Thanks for these tips!
Thanks for reading, I’m glad you found these tips helpful! Best of luck in Paris – it’s such an amazing city!