I have spent a lifetime traveling the globe on expeditions and filming projects. This is installment five of my top 100 travel tips to make your journey more relaxed and earth-friendly.
1. Belt – I always wear a lightweight webbed belt. Beyond holding up my pants, I can use it for yoga stretches.
2. Wool – The benefits of wearing merino wool are unsurpassed. This magic fabric is incapable of holding human body fat that causes odor. You can wear merino for a month of sweating, and the clothing will not smell. It is great for warm and cold weather. My favorite is the Kuhl Kascade crew.
3. Cargo Pants – Modern technical fabrics mean that you might be able to get away with one pair of pants for your travels. The Teflon-like finish sheds water and stains. Secure zip pockets serve as a wallet. Try the Kuhl Klash pants.
4. The 80 Pound Parka – There are times when luggage limits make traveling with sport’s equipment difficult. In these cases, I use a heavy winter parka or photographers vest as a place to stow a lot of weighty bits and pieces. I have taken the Arktik parka to the ends of the earth, quite literally!
5. What’s On Your Body – At all times, you should have your passport, credit cards and cash on your person. If the plane has an emergency landing you will not be permitted to get anything out of the overhead bin, and you might not get it back for days (this has happened to me).
6. Down – If you need warmth, take it as down layers. A packable down shirt or two can be stuffed in a waterproof bag and used as a pillow. Try the Kuhl Spyfyre jacket. It packs really small.
7. Reusable Shopping Bag – As you would at home, carry a lightweight, reusable shopping bag for food shopping or carrying and stowing jackets during flights.
8. Scarf – An infinity scarf with hidden pocket is a great place to stow valuables.
9. Sarongs – Sarongs can be used for warmth, as a towel, picnic blanket, a modesty cover for getting into a swimsuit, a curtain or a versatile piece of clothing.
10. Quick Dry Underwear – You only need a few pairs of underwear if you can rinse and dry them fast.
11. Flip flops – Take shower sandals if sharing a bathrooms
12. Hat – Always take a hat to protect from the sun.
Full disclosure: I love Kuhl clothes. I have purchased a lot of them over the years and am now a Kuhl Brand Ambassador.