Very often when people are packing for their holiday and they are thinking about clothes, the one thing that will dominate any decision that they will make will most usually be the size or volume of the clothes that they are planning to take.
In some cases they may also consider the sorts of outfits that they would like to see themselves in or that they would like to show off. Particularly that new outfit purchased recently that would look fantastic on an evening out at a posh restaurant. Occasionally it may also be the case that people give some consideration to the expected weather. Clearly a trip to the Alps is going to provide a greater challenge to warmth than a couple of weeks in the Bahamas. However there are also other factors which it is important to give consideration to. These will not only assist with providing you with far greater flexibility over the wardrobe that you are planning to take, but may also have a significant impact on the way in which you are viewed and accepted within the culture of your chosen destination.
The first point to make as far as flexibility goes is that it is clearly preferable to take a greater number of clothes rather than a fewer number. However, number doesn't necessarily need to equate to volume or weight of clothes. Taking half a dozen cotton tops will provide far greater versatility than will one very bulky and warm top. As is common knowledge, layering can also assist in retaining warmth in cold climates. For ladies, trouser suits offer tremendous versatility compared to skirts and tops, but there is another factor which must be borne in mind when it comes to selecting your outfits.
There are many locations and cultures around the world that are popular with tourists, but that have very deep seated views and opinions regarding what is considered respectful and appropriate for both men and women to wear. The covering up to at least a respectful degree is considered polite and appropriate for tourists of any country when visiting certain locations around the world, particularly the Middle East.
Unnecessary exposure, including short skirts and low tops is taken fairly negatively and may at best result in a lower level of service than you might expect, and at worst can result in people being denied access to locations. For the sake of a little forethought and planning, taking a versatile range of respectful clothes will provide you with flexibility as to what you wear during the course of your holiday, and the ability to be well presented to the cultures that you visit.
If you are in any doubt as to the expectations of appearance and dress for the country you intend to visit, you would be well advised to have a chat with your travel agent or tour representative who will be able to advise you from first hand professional experience what best to wear, and for what occasions, to allow you to plan your outfits effectively well in advance.
