Fat Passport

Item

Comments and where to buy

Short-Sleeved Shirts (5)

Go for comfort and versatility. All-cotton or light-weight knits are a good choice. Consider basic, mix and match colors so you get the most versatility out of your wardrobe. My shopping choices include Target, Old Navy, Exofficio, and Amazon (where you can find Eddie Bauer and other good brands).

Long-Sleeved Shirt (2)

Consider bringing a no-iron collared shirt – it is a great item to wear when you want to look as presentable as possible (i.e. when going through customs, obtaining visas while on the road, etc.). Nordstrom’s, Eddie Bauer and Brooks Brothers all carry a variety of colors and styles.

Also bring a long sleeved lightweight cotton or knit shirt to use on its own or as a layering piece. Target, Old Navy, and Eddie Bauer offer a good selection.

Tank Tops

I don’t recommend wearing tank tops on their own UNLESS you are at the beach, but they are great as a layering piece or to wear when you are relaxing in your room.

Long Pants (2 pair)

Choose pants that are comfortable, light-weight, quick to dry and wrinkle-resistant. Khaki pants are a good choice; and I then bring a second pair of dark pants that can also serve as a dressier option. Eddie Bauer no iron pants are a good option, while dressier (and more expensive) options can be found at TravelSmith.

Skirts (2 – 3)

Skirts should go at least to the knee. You should focus on comfortable, washable items that allow for maximizing mix and match options. There are great inexpensive options to be found at Target and Old Navy.

Dresses (2)

It is great to have something nice to wear for times when you want to splurge and hit a nice hotel for a drink or dinner. Consider bringing a cotton version for day and a jersey knit for evening.

Jacket (1)

The weight of the jacket will depend on where you are going, but it is a very good idea to have a waterproof option. Eddie Bauer jackets are a good choice.

Socks (5 pair)

If you’ll be doing lots of walking or hiking, consider walking socks such as Thorlo.

Shoes (1 -4 pair)

Ok, this is where men and women’s needs vary greatly. Consider comfort and function, but here are my suggestions:

1) “Everyday” shoes: Comfortable shoes you can walk in, but which also decent. I’ve used a pair of Mephisto sandals and they have provided great versatility. But there are many other “comfort” brands to consider including Aerosoles and Naturalizer.

2) “Hiking” / “sports” shoes – consider Timberland or Privo.

3) Flip flops: For the beach or pool; for visiting sites that require you to remove your shoes; or for lounging around at the end of the day.

4) Dress shoes: Consider a lightweight heeled sandal that won’t take up too much room in your bag.

Consider Zappos.com, or Nordstrom if budget permits.

Swimsuit (1)

Bring at least one bathing suit. Good choices include Eddie Bauer and J Crew. It will be difficult to find a variety of styles while on the road!

Bras (3 – 4)

Don’t leave home without these! It will likely be very tough to find something to fit you while on the road. You want comfortable, good quality, cotton bras. Spend the extra money and pick up something at Victoria’s Secret. A racer-back style is a nice choice if you plan to be active.

Panties (7 – 10 pair)

Again, you need to bring your own panties, as there’s not a lot of quality choices while on the road. I always opt for comfortable cotton panties as they work well when you are traveling to high humidity destinations. Consider Hanes, Jockey, or Victoria’s Secret from places like Target or Macys.

Sleepwear

If you are traveling on a budget, you need to be prepared that you will be sharing a room with two or more people, some of whom may be strangers. Consider comfort and modesty. I personally like a tank top and cotton boxer short.

Accessories

Consider bringing a few items to accessorize your outfits: a belt, scarves which can be used as belts or hair bands, and simple inexpensive jewelry (do NOT bring anything that will make you a target for thieves! Your diamond wedding ring should be left at home in a safe deposit box!)