When it comes to a travel packing list, there aren’t many items more versatile and timeless than a scarf. Besides serving as a wardrobe accessory, it’s multipurpose nature (like the sarong or Turkish towel) means the travel scarf can help solve problems in many areas of travel.
The scarf does everything from adding warmth and style to serving as a makeshift towel. Let’s have a closer look at why you should pack the versatile scarf when you travel.
The Many Uses for a Travel Scarf
- Add warmth on a cool day. It’s amazing what a little extra coverage on our neck and chest can do.
- Add style and pizzazz. Dress up a boring travel outfit with a bold scarf.
- Easily change your look with a packable accessory.
- Hide valuables with a hidden-pocket scarf.
- Use a scarf as a towel, beach towel, or picnic blanket in a pinch.
- Convert into a headscarf to protect from sun and wind.
- Use as beach cover-ups and wraps, much like a sarong.
- Create extra privacy with oversized scarves or pashminas. Hang from the top bunk in your hostel dorm, drape to create a privacy screen for changing, or hang on some bushes to block your backside when nature calls… in nature.
Why They Never Travel Without One
These travelers mentioned that scarves are the one little thing they can’t travel without.
When asked why she loves traveling with a scarf, Beverly stated:
“Because a scarf is one of the most versatile pieces of clothing you can take backpacking. I wear it in the winter to keep me warm, on chilly evenings in the summer and even if the weather’s hot I use it to cover my shoulders because getting sunburnt is painful! A scarf can also be used to dress-up an otherwise dull backpacking outfit and a make-shift beachmat when you’re sunning yourself.”
Sarah loves traveling with her circle/infinity scarf:
“Not only is it stylish, it keeps me warm and is extremely versatile. I’ve used it so much and take it almost everywhere! I’ve worn it on chilly ferry rides in Newfoundland, used it as a pillow on a night train in Serbia, and as a picnic blanket in parks. If you want to stay warm, look stylish and have something that can perform a multitude of tasks, then a circle scarf is for you.”
Scarves with Extra Features
Hidden Pocket Scarves
For wearable storage that’s not a purse or backpack, and for hidden storage that’s not a money belt, check out hidden pocket scarves. Speakeasy Travel Supply have designed scarves for all seasons equipped with zipper pockets for secret storage of your money, passport, or other bits and pieces.
Read our review of the Speakeasy travel scarf.
Convertible Scarves
Encircled has created a scarf that converts into a cardigan or even a dress! It’s an entire article of clothing that you can wear as a scarf on travel days which means… no packing necessary!
Read our review of the Encircled convertible scarf.
Do you always have a scarf on your travel packing list?
P.S. Guide to Packing for Conservative Countries
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[…] warm in London or to double as a sarong in Thailand. They are versatile items to pack! Beverley and Sarah swear by theirs as their One Little […]