Packing Travel Outfits for Asia

This summer, I had my greatest packing-for-travel challenge since the pandemic, with a long itinerary to and from Asia, no doubling back, and a bunch of low-cost flights that made extra baggage quite prohibitive.

I don’t wish to do that amount of packing, unpacking and repacking anytime soon. But here were some things that got me through.

1. Space savers

Firstly, take all the help you can get. So whether it is packing cubes or compression bags, figure out how to make the most of the packing space you have.

2. Layers and coverage

While it is likely hot and humid where you are going, for the varied activities that your itinerary involves, you will need layers and coverage. In fact, consider buying your summery things there but strategically packing your layers.

Think about a blazer to level up your outfits or a cardigan to deal with air conditioning on the plane or in climate controlled environments. Long pants for the same reasons. Make sure they can be coordinated with many of your outfits, are lightweight, do not wrinkle easily, and can be rolled up into a ball (eg in your compression bag).

3. Pack for the weather

Asia is hot and humid, especially close to the equator. Uniqlo is my go-to for extreme heat or cold. Airism underclothes mean you don’t sweat into them and remain damp all day. Heat tech allows you to be out facing the elements in the cold as long as you have the endurance to.

4. Don’t forget to pack something fun

I always pack for function first when I travel to Asia. But there will always be photo ops. Pack a couple of comfortable outfits that you love (aim for the more lightweight materials), and they will always remind you of your trip.