Although it’s several years since we caravanned around Australia, and fashions have changed, what I learned about “caravan fashion” is just as applicable today.
Storage space is at a premium in a caravan, so any item of clothing you pack needs to be extremely versatile.
In my experience, you can get away with as little as two “bottoms” no matter what the season – something black, and something in blue denim; as long as both are very comfortable!
In Summer of course, it could be a pair of black capri pants and denim shorts; in Winter, black leggings and jeans. If folded straight from the clothes line, none of these will need ironing.
White or light are not such a great idea when travelling; at least with denim or black, you can’t see that your clothes haven’t been washed in so long, they can virtually stand up by themselves!
What to Wear Caravanning Australia: Summer
You’ll need underwear, and pyjamas that are fit to be seen in public even if you prefer sleeping “in the raw” – for those midnight wee walks or friendly neighbours tapping on the door before you’re up and at ’em in the morning! Alternatively, wear a tracksuit or similar to bed so you always looked “dressed”.
What to Wear Caravanning Australia: Winter
Shoes
One thing we packed far too many of was shoes! I would suggest limiting it to a pair of thongs – comfortable in hot weather and easy to slip on; plus they will protect your feet from tinea and other nasties in the showers. A pair of sturdy boots or sneakers (like the Converse pictured) for the cooler months; and perhaps sandals in the warmer months should be all you need.
Forget slippers – they don’t handle the outdoor activity of caravan life very well at all. If you suffer from cold tootsies, thick bedsocks will do the trick when you’re inside; thongs or boots can slip on over the top if you need to go to the amenities block.
Whatever the season, pack swimmers: even alpine regions boast heated indoor swimming pools, throughout the year!
It is amazing how little you actually need – and I think you’ll find even with just “two bottoms” you will be set for anything – from fishing, to dining at restaurants, shopping, sightseeing, sitting round the campfire, or whatever!
In fact, I might just take my own advice and refer to this post when I pack for my upcoming trip to Europe 😉 .
Have you been travelling – whether caravanning or backpacking? What clothing items did you regret packing?!
You summed it up perfectly Janet. You don’t need too much clothing when you are gallivanting around. My staples were shorts and t shirts and tracky pants and long sleeve t shirts for when it got a bit cooler. I bought a pair of very comfortable Orthaheel thongs which I wore to death (they fell apart once I returned). Also I took tights and sports tops plus my runners because we did a lot of walking and hiking.
I reckon the silver Birkenstocks I’ve pictured with the black t-shirt would be great Kathy, like your Orthaheels.
Sarongs are another perfect summer caravanning wardrobe essential. They are so versatile. I recently wrote a blog post about how versatile they are! And very space saving!
http://www.fabulousandfunlife.blogspot.com.au/2015/01/fabulous-fashion-find-top-10-uses-for.html
Big sarong fan here. Huge!
I have never been caravanning, but it’s something we have talked about. Now I know where to come before I start packing. Great tips! Rachel x
Although the wardrobe might be limited, one thing you can go to town on is jewellery, because it doesn’t take up much space!
Thank you, some great ideas. We have done some previous trips, 6 weeks and 3 months and on the longer trip I found that i got a bit sick of wearing the same clothes day in & day out. The next trip is for 6 months; will need to try on for comfort and lay it all out and mix and match before i pack..