Any packing guide you will read for a walking or hiking holiday will tell you to prioritise comfort over looks. But, it’s only normal that you want to take pictures in beautiful settings and feel your most confident for them. So, is it possible to do both – practical and stylish – on a walking holiday? Absolutely! Here’s how.
The key to looking stylish on a walking holiday is investing in pieces that serve dual purposes. A lot of outdoor clothing tends to be plain and boring, but it doesn’t have to be!
If you’re doing your walking holiday in Spain, in the middle of the summer, the weather is likely to be sunny and hot. You can wear shorts and a t-shirt or a nice dress, as long as the materials are lightweight and breathable. When it comes to footwear, pick something that is neutral and versatile, so you know it will look great with lots of different outfits.
There are lots of beautiful and comfy options designed specifically for fitness, but you wouldn’t be able to tell at first glance. You may experiment with vibrant colours or patterns to bring a bit more visual interest into your outfit as well.
On the other hand, if your walking holiday destination is known for unpredictable weather throughout the day, such as the São Miguel Island in the Azores, layering will become your best friend. The goal here is to create a capsule wardrobe for the trip – a selection of clothing where each item coordinates with the others. This means that you can wear them in various different combinations, without compromising on style.
For instance, your base outfit could be stylish trousers and a short-sleeve top, ideal for mild weather. If it gets colder, you could put on a merino jumper or a fleece top that works well with the trousers. In case it starts raining, add a thin waterproof jacket to the list. Each of these pieces will be easy to take on or off throughout the day.
The right accessories can easily elevate even the most practical walking outfit into something stylish. For example, a pair of sunglasses or a nice hat will not only protect you from the sun, but also serve an aesthetic purpose. Alternatively, if you’re hiking Los Picos de Europa during the colder months, a matching hat and gloves set will look super cute in pictures! Even little details like jewellery or hair accessories can add a pop of colour, bringing the whole look together seamlessly.
For those who want to change their outfits more often, instead of wearing the same pieces for a whole week, luggage transfer services are a game changer. If you book your trip through Orbis Ways, one of the most popular travel agencies for walking holidays, they will take care of all logistics, including booking your hotel rooms for each night and organising luggage transfers between them.
This means that you can pack more than you otherwise would, if you had to carry all of your belongings with you. You may pack some lovely evening outfits and an extra pair of sandals for when you go out to dinner. It also gives you the freedom to bring hair styling tools or make up, if you wish to go that extra mile further. The cherry on top? You won’t have a huge hiking backpack ruining all of your pictures.
Staying stylish on a walking holiday is totally achievable with a bit of extra preparation. As long as your clothing is comfortable and weather-appropriate, nothing can stop you from looking fab!