I’m going travelling in February. Four months of carefree adventures, going places and doing things that I’ve never done before and might never do again. And while I cannot wait for this amazing trip that will undoubtedly (at risk of sounding like a cliché) change my life, I do have one major worry: the clothes. What on earth will I wear, and how will I cope with such a limited wardrobe for four months? Yes, it may sound extremely shallow and superficial, but to me it might possibly be one of the most important aspects of the trip. I know, I know, surely it’s all about the experience, the people you meet, the different cultures you encounter along the way? Well, yes, but if I look like a complete tramp I will not enjoy this experience.
I do not do ‘casual’, or at least my version of casual is very different to others’. This mostly came to light during my time at University. Whilst I’d rock up to the library or lecture hall in leather trousers, a sheer blouse and heeled Chelsea boots, I’d be surrounded by my peers in oversized hoodies and Jack Wills’ gilets (I still don’t understand this staple student uniform – or the ‘posh chav’ look, if you will). Even after a long day of work, I will not don jogging bottoms, pyjamas or the ever-unattractive ‘onesie’ – my downtime will more likely consist of high-waisted burgundy trousers and a pale pink chiffon blouse.
So you can see my dilemma. I can only take what my backpack, and strength, will allow. And I need these clothes to last me four months. And I still want/need to look chic.
I’m not the only one for whom this is an issue (yes, there are other superficial beings out there). After Googling ‘what to wear to go backpacking’ (this is an important subject matter that requires extensive research), I found that there are many other women out there who wish to remain stylish, even when roughing it.
This blog will be a documentation of my experience. Not only will I share all the wonderful details of my trip, but I will also be documenting what I wear, and when, what works, and what doesn’t. Hopefully this will make for an interesting read, and help any other fashion-conscious women out there who dare to brave the backpacker-wardrobe.