When traveling, one of the first things we women do (that is, after we think of where to go and what to do there) is “What do we bring?” We agonize over this question because you can either bring too much, or end up with too little. Clothes seem to be our universal concern and we all believe that no matter where we are, we have to have the right outfit.
When traveling in Southeast Asia, looking good isn’t the only factor to consider when packing your clothes. Here are some other things you need to keep in mind.
Singapore Women
Weather
Their location near the equator gives most of Southeast Asia two to three seasons. Late March to May are the hottest and driest months of the year, while June up to October is the rainy and humid monsoon season. November up to February brings in cooler winds, but still not that cold compared to the climate in say, Japan or Korea.
When traveling during the summer season, bring lightweight clothing made from cotton or a hybrid of cotton and polyester. These clothes let your skin breathe, and dry easily. Shorts and tank tops help keep your body cool as you explore, particularly in the city which is somewhat warmer than the other areas around it. For the rainy months, bring a foldable umbrella, a lightweight waterproof jacket and waterproof shoes to help keep you dry. The cooler season is not too cold, but it would serve you well to bring a cardigan or sweater.
Where are you going?
The suggestions above will work well too depending on where you are going. Southeast Asia has so many wondrous beaches, so the usual summer staples work. However, keep in mind that the winds blow a little more strongly at night — regardless of the season — so bring a cover to ward off the chill. If you are heading up to cooler climates, like Cameron Highlands in Malaysia or the Mountain Province in the Philippines, a thicker fleece jacket and jeans would be good to have.
Conservative outlook
While most Southeast Asian cities are progressive and very modern, keep in mind that they have deep religious roots. Many older folk, and even the younger generation, are very conservative in their outlook and frown upon clothing that shows too much skin. This is particularly true the farther away you get from the city, and whenever you visit a place of worship.
Bring reinforcements
You don’t have to cover yourself up from head to toe. Bring along some lightweight legwear like capri pants or leggings that you can put on if you’re heading to a temple, mosque or church. Shoulders and décolletage should be kept covered. You can bring along a sarong or purchase a pashmina shawl which, believe me, will come in handy nearly everywhere.
Best foot forward
Surprisingly, footwear is not really an issue, so whatever you wear is fine but remember that most homes and places of worship will ask you to remove them. When in doubt, check the door. If there are a lot of shoes there, take yours off.
Staying in
If you are staying at a resort or a hotel most of the time, there really isn’t much to worry about when it comes to clothing considerations. Wear what you want, so long as you’re comfortable and not out to shock anyone. Some places do have certain rules, like if you are dining in a five-star restaurant, which is pretty much just common sense.
Heading for a night out
In most of the cities around Southeast Asia, a night out is quite similar to any other cosmopolitan city, particularly in Singapore, Bangkok and Makati in the Philippines. Sexy clothing is accepted, and you can dress up as much as you want. It’s still fairly laid back and casual, and you’ll be surprised that some women wear sundresses to a bar or club.
Clothing staples
Your staples when traveling to Southeast Asia should include sunglasses, sunblock, a hat, flip flops and small, lightweight towelettes you can use to wipe off your perspiration.
Get your stuff there
The great thing with Southeast Asia is that there are many shops that offer good quality clothing at an affordable price. You can find bazaars that sell comfortable dresses and shirts, and if you wish to buy brands that are more familiar to you there are many malls and department stores you can go to. Clothing emergencies are easily remedied, and you can even opt to buy what you need when you reach your destination to help keep your baggage light.
Photos by Simon Jones and Vin Crosbie
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Article by Chris
Chris had a passion to contribute to society especially to fellow travelers like himself. He also had a passion for Southeast Asia and frequently visited. While brainstorming ideas, he decided that a travel blog dedicated to his favorite countries, Thailand and Singapore, could be more beneficial than any guidebook. Only one year later did the blog’s success bring in more writers, more countries, and more readers.
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