Business trips can often require a lot of preparation, especially if you’re attending important meetings or giving presentations. And packing the right outfits to maximise precious suitcase space can feel just as daunting as your agenda. Each piece of your wardrobe needs to serve a purpose, adapting to varied settings like boardrooms or business dinners. Fortunately, you don’t need to be a fashion guru to pick out the perfect combination of outfits that prepare you for any setting.
From after-work dinner apparel to casual travel outfits, our list of travel clothes ideas will make sure your vibe is all dress – and no stress.
Dressing for your destination
Deciding what to wear for travelling can be a real headache. But before you think about what you’re packing, consider where you’re going. The climate in your destination is going to have a big influence over what ends up in your suitcase. Whether you’re heading to a sun-drenched city or somewhere on the frosty side, you’ll need outfits that combine comfort with professionalism.
Hot locations
- Choose light and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen and light wool blends
- Opt for pale colours that help to reflect sunlight
- Remember to pack an extra layer for chilly air-conditioned spaces
Cold locations
- Invest in a good-quality coat or jacket that provides plenty of warmth. Materials like wool, down and insulated synthetics are the ones to go for here.
- Think carefully about how to layer. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a shirt or blouse and then a sweatshirt or cardigan over the top.
- Scarves, gloves and hats make for stylish yet functional accessories.
1. The sharp suit – a safe staple for professional settings
A smart suit is a must-have in any business traveller's wardrobe. Navy and charcoal are your best bets, since they work for almost any situation and never go out of style. Darker shades will also help to hide away any little mishaps like coffee stains or wrinkles.
When picking out your suit, try and go for natural fabrics like wool blends, which are known for their durability and wrinkle resistance. This way, you’ll look polished straight out of your suitcase and won’t have to spend precious downtime ironing. You should also think again about the climate of your destination: lighter materials work well in warmer climates, while thicker wools are suited for cooler temperatures.
This outfit is perfect for:
Client meetings: Exude professionalism and show you mean business, leaving clients with a lasting impression.
Networking events: Your suit does the talking before you do, making sure you stand out while you mix and mingle with the crowd.
Business dinners: Dress to impress with a look that’s both smart and inviting – perfect for socialising after hours.
Award ceremonies: Look sharp and feel confident in a suit that makes a memorable impression as you accept your accolades.
Important presentations: Command the room with confidence. A sharp suit boosts your presence while adding an extra layer of authority to your delivery.
2. The versatile blazer combo – perfect for day-to-night transitions
An all-purpose blazer is indispensable for those moments when your business itinerary shifts from daytime workshops to evening socials. Pairing one with chinos or dark jeans strikes a good balance between formal and casual, making it suitable for both professional and relaxed settings.
Go for a neutral colour like navy, black or grey to give you more pairing options. Just like with our sharp suit, a lightweight, crease-resistant fabric keeps your look fresh throughout the day. For a touch of flair, accessorise with a stylish watch or a subtle pocket square, depending on the occasion.
This outfit is perfect for:
Casual business meetings: Where a full suit isn’t necessary, but a touch of professionalism is.
Conferences: For a smart yet approachable look.
After-work drinks: Easily transition into evening social events.
Impromptu client interactions: Always be prepared for unexpected business opportunities.
3. Smart-casual mastery – blending comfort with professionalism
Travelling isn't always a glamorous affair – there's a lot of waiting around and often plenty of walking. That's where a smart-casual outfit can really come through for you. Comfy enough to get you through the airport hustle, a smart-casual outfit will keep you looking put-together when you reach your destination.
A crisp polo or a relaxed button-down shirt paired with tailored khakis or dark jeans is the ideal combination. It's stylish without being stuffy, and practical for a long day on the move.
Don’t forget your feet! Pack some loafers or roomy trainers that can withstand hours of walking. As for the accessories, keep it simple: a smart watch and a sleek belt are all you need to tie the look together.
This outfit is perfect for:
Travel days: Look put-together even when you're on the move.
Informal meetings: Ideal for settings that call for a relaxed yet neat appearance.
Site visits: Maintain comfort and style while you’re out and about.
Casual dining: Suitable for less formal dinner arrangements.
4. The ultimate travel dress – style that moves with you
A wrap or sheath dress is best suited for travel. These styles are universally flattering and tend to be forgiving both in fit and care. Look for dresses made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics like blended polyester or jersey, which can endure long flights and transitions between different climates without the need for ironing.
When choosing your dress’s colour and pattern, opt for darker shades such as navy, black or deep jewel tones. These colours not only travel well, hiding minor stains and wrinkles, but also transition effortlessly from daytime professional settings to evening events. Subtle patterns can add a bit of personality to your outfit without being overpowering, making them good options for both presentations and dinners.
This outfit is perfect for:
Conferences: Go for a look that's comfy enough for all-day wear, but still polished and professional.
Business lunches: Make a great impression with an outfit that's sharp and stylish.
Presentations: Own the stage with a confident, eye-catching appearance.
Evening networking events: Transition effortlessly from day to night with a few well-chosen accessories (earrings, a coordinating necklace or a spangly bracelet).
5. Essential accessories – the finishing touches to your business wardrobe
No outfit is complete without the right accessories. They not only enrich your look – they can add a bit of functionality, too. Think about taking a stylish bag with plenty of room to carry your laptop and other essentials. You could also slip on some comfy, smart shoes that will take you from morning meetings to evening cocktails. Throw in a light scarf or a pair of jewelled earrings to add a little extra personality and you're good to go.
Key accessories include:
Shoes: Choose options that provide both comfort and style, such as loafers for men and block heels for women.
Bags: A sleek, professional bag that can hold your laptop and documents.
Scarves and jewellery: Quick ways to change the tone of your outfit from day to night.
Belts and watches: Subtle details that can sharpen your overall look.
By assembling these key outfits and accessories, you’re all set for any business occasion. Your travel wardrobe will keep you ready and radiant, so you can focus on the business at hand with confidence and style.
Respecting local dress codes
When you’re travelling for business internationally, understanding and respecting the local dress codes is not just a matter of etiquette – it’s essential for positive interactions, too. Different cultures have varying expectations for attire, which can significantly influence the impression you make. Here are a few tips to help you stick to dress codes when selecting your travel clothing options in global business environments.
The Middle East and North Africa
Modesty is key: In many countries in this region, conservative dress is important. Men should opt for long trousers and long-sleeved shirts, avoiding shorts and sleeveless tops. Women should consider wearing clothing that covers the shoulders, arms and knees. A lightweight scarf might also be necessary for women to cover their hair in certain settings or places of worship.
Formal vs casual: Business attire tends to be more formal in these regions. Opting for darker, more conservative suits can show respect and professionalism.
East Asia (China, Japan, South Korea)
Conservative colours: In countries like Japan and South Korea, business attire is generally conservative. Dark-coloured suits with white shirts are standard for both men and women. Bright colours and flamboyant accessories are usually avoided in professional settings.
Subtle elegance: The focus is on neatness and subtlety. Make sure your clothes are well-ironed and your appearance is impeccable.
Wrapping up
Business travel can feel like a whirlwind of meetings, presentations and networking events. Packing for these trips shouldn't be an added stress. With just five key outfits and a few versatile accessories, you can be prepared for any situation, whether it's a high-stakes client meeting or a casual dinner with colleagues.
