Blend Don’t Offend

When you’re traveling, it’s best to build your wardrobe around one color palette. Choose a neutral color. If you start with fuchsia, it’s going to be difficult to mix and match, and you’ll probably tire of it soon.

So think about khaki, and add a blue blazer, white shirts, a red sweater. Start with black and almost anything goes.

If you’re going to a warm climate, natural fibers such as linen and cotton are best because they breathe, meaning you’ll be more comfortable. If you’re going to hand wash some items, remember that woven fabrics dry faster than cotton knits.

Microfiber, a knitted fabric made from man-made fibers, has become extremely popular for travel clothes for men and women because it is lightweight, resists wrinkles and breathes. We highly recommend it, but be sure to check out the washing instructions before you buy. Don’t take anything, microfiber or otherwise, that has to be dry cleaned.

A good pair or two of walking shoes is essential. Notice we said walking shoes, not sneakers, which scream “tourist.” Several companies, such as Rockport and Easy Spirit, specialize in comfortable, good-looking walking shoes. Remember, it’s essential to break them in before you go. Never take brand-new shoes on a trip.

If you have conspicuous tattoos, many piercings and hair the color of a lime, prepare to be stared at. True, in London you won’t stand out as much as in, say, a small Russian village. Although movies, magazines and MTV have revealed the kooky things Americans do to their bodies, most people are not used to seeing it up close and personal.

And don’t forget rain gear. Better safe than sorry.

Here are a few other tips for general items to pack. Your itinerary and the climate will help you narrow the choices.

MEN: Pack both casual and dressy trousers. The fabric will depend on the climate, but for warmer locales choose natural fibers such as linen and cotton.

Shirts should range from polo styles to tailored. Tailored shirts don’t have to be the kind you wear to work, but they should be in good shape and be able to be worn with a tie if necessary. Also pack a couple of plain white undershirts if you’re going to be in a cooler climate.

Sweaters are optional, again depending on weather. A cardigan or pullover should be enough.

Bring at least one jacket, something basic like a navy blazer.

Bring at least one tie, just in case.

Depending on the length of your trip, pack at least two pairs of shoes. Both should be comfortable, but one pair should be dressy enough to be worn with a jacket.

Bring a hat for sun protection. And please remember that it may be acceptable in American restaurants to enter a building or dine in a restaurant with a hat or cap on, but it’s not the case in other countries.

WOMEN: Pack both casual and dressy pants. Again, the climate will determine the fabric.

Take a few different styles of tops, from nice T-shirts to tunic tops to dressy blouses. Make sure some tops have long sleeves, which may be required to enter certain religious sites.

Take at least one skirt or dress, even if you prefer pants. This is especially important when traveling through countries where women may be required to wear skirts to enter certain religious sites. Also, you may feel more comfortable in better restaurants wearing a skirt.

Fight the urge to bring miniskirts, since they may not be appropriate everywhere. Many companies that specialize in travel clothing (see below) usually offer one or two basic sheath dresses or A-line skirts in microfiber. These are ideal, since they can be layered with other items and dressed up or down.

Sweaters are not required but suggested for cooler climates.

Jackets are optional. Some women prefer traveling in them, but you’ll probably be OK without one.

Take at least two pairs of comfortable shoes. Again, one pair should be dressy enough to go with your nice clothes.

Pack at least one scarf. You may need it as a head or shoulder/arm covering in places such as temples or mosques.

Don’t overdo the jewelry. A few small items are all you’ll need. Leave the real stuff at home.

Bring a hat for sun protection.