What Not To Wear When Traveling (And What To Actually Wear)

This is a given. Heels, athletic sneakers, flats with no support, flip-flops (unless you're at the beach) and rain boots (unless the forecast calls for rain every day) are pretty much a travel no-go. If you're a frequent traveler, you've probably learned the hard way that sacrificing fashion for practicality has never ended well. While sneakers are supportive, it's wise to stay away from all-white trainers that will just get dirty. And besides, rain boots and athletic shoes take up a lot of luggage space and scream "American tourist," while unsupportive shoes will be sure to leave blisters long after you return home.

What to Wear: Consider the climate and the activities you'll be doing on your trip. Generally speaking, the key is to pick comfortable and supportive shoes in neutral and darker colors—and don't forget appropriate socks.

Need inspiration? We've come up with ideas that cater to every traveler's needs; check out World's Best Travel Shoes, and Three Ways to Pack Workout Shoes Without Wasting Space, or go by season with Best Summer Shoes for Travel, and Best Travel-Friendly Shoes and Boots for Fall.

(Photo: Thinkstock/iStock)

We know, long flights are hard, and being uncomfortable doesn't make time pass any quicker. Truth is, you are going to be showing up somewhere (to a hotel or restaurant, or maybe you're meeting friends) after you depart the airport, so someone is going to see you looking like that … besides your seatmate. For long travel days there are endless options that will make you look a little more presentable, and you will still be just as comfortable as you would be in those sweatpants.

What to Wear: Where do we begin? The options are endless. Leggings, compression tights, maxi skirts or dresses, wrinkle-free shirts, infinity scarves that double as a blanket … we could go on and on. Here are our favorite travel clothes ever.

RELATED:Travel Clothes That Feel Like Pajamas (But Look First Class)(Photo: Girl sitting on floor via Antlio/Shutterstock.com)

Be smart. Not only are you inviting pickpockets and attention, you are also more likely to misplace your cherished jewelry while traveling. Plus, it's a good idea to insure expensive items, and that's just another task on your already long list of things to do pre-trip.

What to Wear: Leave the jewelry at home (along with most other expensive items). Instead, bring one or two costume pieces that will go with your clothing. Insider tip: If you choose to wear your engagement ring, turn the stone to the inside of your hand on public transportation and in large crowds.

RELATED:Seven Ways to Wear Your Valuables While Traveling(Photo: Jewelry Box via iHereArt/ShutterStock.com)

Although this one is common sense, you'd be surprised how many times we encounter clueless tourists abroad. Research your destination, opt for modest clothing in more conservative destinations, and cover up appropriately when you're visiting religious sites. Tank tops and shorts—as well as shirts with distasteful logos or words—can be considered offensive in many Middle Eastern and Asian countries.

What to Wear: Keep it simple. You can still express your style and have personality, just keep in mind the cultural and religious practices of your destination. This will make you less of a target for pickpockets and travel scams. If you plan on visiting religious sites or temples, look up the dress code beforehand to avoid not being let in.

RELATED:10 Fashion Faux Pas for Travelers(Photo: Dress code sign via mariakraynova/Shutterstock.com)

Unless you're skiing or taking on a different outdoor winter adventure, leave the oversized jacket at home. This will save you both space and hassle when packing.

What to Wear: Layering is your friend. When traveling to a cooler destination, pack a few longer sleeved shirts as a base, then layer sweaters and a looser, lighter jacket. Luckily, many travel and outdoor recreation companies are coming up with lighter down jackets that can be compressed into a small pack, which are a great option for travelers.

RELATED:How to Pack the Right Jacket (Or Coat) For Every Season(Photo: Winter jacket via sagir/Shutterstock.com)

Listen up, ladies. This is the easiest rule to follow and one of the most important ways to keep your belongings safe. Although a large tote is always in style, an open bag is an open invitation to pickpockets. Bonus: You'll be less tempted to overpack your day bag by carrying a smaller, zipping purse.

What to Wear: Cross-body bags are always a better option for travel, but any bag that fully zips will make you less of a target for thieves. Guys, we didn't forget about you: Here's our list of the best travel bags for guys.

RELATED:6 Brilliant Tricks for a Lighter Purse When You Travel(Photo: Thinkstock/iStock)

We've all been there. You packed a dress for a special event, only to unpack and discover it's a wrinkled mess. Or you thought jeans would be a good idea on the plane, and now they're cutting off your circulation midflight. From discomfort to wrinkles and funky odors, the fabrics you choose can make or break your travel days. Avoid silks, nylon, leather, rubber, and more generally, clothes made from a synthetic material.

What to Wear: Check the weather at your destination and keep in mind your activities. Some foolproof fabrics for packing and travel are linen, moisture-wicking activewear, cotton, jersey, and most travel-friendly clothes sold by travel suppliers like Magellan's.

RELATED:Practical Magic: Travel Clothes That Do Double Duty(Photo: Thinkstock/iStock)

Please, we beg of you, don't be thattourist. While we all want the perfect vacation Instagram, we don't want to be hit in the head by your selfie stick. The same goes for tablet-sized cameras and other large tech accessories. Stick to snapping pics with your phone or an actual camera to avoid injury and inconvenience to those around you.

What to Wear: Use your phone or actual camera for pictures, and always keep it stored safely on your person or in a zipped bag or pocket. Use your tablet strictly for in-flight entertainment or back at your hotel room.

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We're all for expressing yourself, but when you travel, bright colors aren't always the way to do it. You'll stick out more abroad, and if you spill your gelato, it's going to be harder to hide that stain. Some religions also find brighter colors offensive, so it's a good idea to research your destination's cultural practices.

What To Wear: Stick to darker tones when you're in cooler to milder climates— it will help you blend in and your clothes won't show stains or sweat as easily.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 7 Things You Should Always Wear on a Plane
• 10 Cures for the Chronic Overpacker
• 7 Small Ways to Boost Your Travel Wardrobe

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @ashley_stravel for more advice on travel hacks and destination ideas.(Photo: Thinkstock/iStock)