As a native Floridian and former cruise ship crew member, I’ve spent years experimenting with what to wear in the heat and humidity. Contrary to the stereotypes, flip-flops and a Hawaiian T-shirt won’t always cut it. After many seasons dressing for equatorial zones, I’ve picked up a few wardrobe rules that keep me comfortable on long summer days that melt into warm nights.
My first tip? Before you start packing your suitcase for your next hot-weather trip, look closely at the labels of your clothing. Polyester and plastic fabrics will not be your friend (nor the planet’s). Instead, reach for natural fibers, like linen, silk, cotton, and, surprisingly, wool. These fabrics should feel lightweight to the touch and ideally be light-colored (white, cream, beige) in order to reflect the sun’s rays rather than absorb them. And it’s not just about what you wear that’s important. I also keep a few key accessories in my bag that can cool me down midday when I need relief the most.
This hot-weather packing guide is filled with neutral pieces that are easy to mix and match, each worthy of precious space in your carry-on if you’re traveling light. Keep reading to learn which garments and gear will equip you for comfort from day to night, without sacrificing style.
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Lightweight linen tops
Linen is an all-natural fabric made of flax fibers spun into yarn. Compared to some synthetic fabrics, linen has an open weave, which makes it breathable, fast-drying, and fantastic for hot weather, as sweat needs to evaporate from your skin to keep you cool. There’s a reason 100% linen is a popular choice in locales like Provence in the summer. I like to wear light-colored linen tops because they are best at hiding underarm and back sweat, but you can’t go wrong with matching linen sets, which look effortlessly pulled together. I always pack a long-sleeve linen shirt on every trip, even to the hottest destinations. It comes in handy when I need to cover my shoulders to enter religious sites, and to shield my skin from the sun without getting overheated.