As travelers, we often find ourselves embracing new cultures and experiences. For hijabi women, venturing abroad requires an added layer of consideration – from packing essential fashion items to adapting to local customs. The quote ‘The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page’ resonates deeply, as exploring the world broadens our perspectives and encourages personal growth.
Whether embarking on a solo adventure or sharing experiences with loved ones, traveling offers endless opportunities for discovery. As hijabi travelers, it’s crucial to be prepared and equipped with the right attire and accessories. In this regard, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of must-haves to ensure a seamless travel experience.
How to Pack & Dress up as a Hijabi Traveler
When packing for your trip, prioritize comfort over excess baggage by focusing on essential clothing items like hijabs and cover-ups that can be easily mixed-and-matched with various outfits. Avoid carrying a multitude of makeup and skincare products, as you’ll likely have limited time to experiment or enjoy leisure activities. Instead, take photos of different outfit combinations in advance to save time and mental energy.
In addition to your wardrobe staples, pack comfortable footwear that won’t cause discomfort during the trip. Don’t forget an extra pair of prayer dresses and a mat for spontaneous Salah sessions on-the-go. Before arriving at your destination, research local mosques, safe places for women to stay, and affordable halal dining options to make the most of your time. By being prepared and resourceful, you’ll be able to focus on enjoying your travels rather than worrying about logistics.
↓ 15. Destination Appropriate Attire
When venturing abroad, it’s essential to adapt your style to the local culture. As a hijabi traveler, this means embracing the destination’s fashion norms while maintaining your modesty and personal flair. The key is to strike a balance between cultural sensitivity and self-expression. In Western destinations, you can effortlessly blend in with the locals by incorporating jeans and leather pieces into your outfit.
Maxi cardigans paired with jeans create a chic and modest ensemble that will keep you comfortable throughout the day. These versatile pieces can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for exploring cities or enjoying outdoor activities. In contrast, Eastern destinations offer a vibrant canvas for expressing yourself through fashion. Bright colors and floral prints are perfect for creating statement outfits that reflect your personality.
Pack plain skirts or floral skirts to pair with various tops, and consider bringing along maxi dresses for effortless, stress-free dressing. By adopting the local style, you’ll not only respect the culture but also enjoy a more authentic travel experience.
↓ 14. Hijabi Travel Outfit for Mothers
As a mom, especially when traveling with young children, it’s essential to prioritize comfort and practicality in your clothing choices. Opt for versatile pieces that can be easily dressed up or down, and allow for flexibility during those busy moments. Don’t forget to consider the added bonus of a baby carrier or leash if you’re traveling with an infant – these tools can be a lifesaver when navigating airports, public transportation, or tourist attractions.
↓ 13. Getting to Play Your Abaya/Travel Maxi Game Well
Before embarking on a trip, take some time to plan out your maxi/abaya strategy. It’s crucial to have a spare one on hand, aside from the one you’ll be wearing. This way, if your primary abaya gets dirty or worn out during travel, you can easily switch to the spare and feel refreshed. Additionally, consider the climate of your destination country when selecting the fabric of your spare abaya, ensuring it’s suitable for the weather conditions you’ll encounter.
↓ 12. Outfits for Parties & Weddings
When attending parties and weddings abroad, it’s essential to consider the local customs and traditions. In countries with Eastern values, you’ll need to pack more glamorous outfits, such as skirts and dresses, to fit in. You might even have a chance to re-wear your Eid dresses, which are often acquired after much effort, making them perfect for a second appearance. For parties, opt for an outfit that features glittering or sequined details at the top, paired with a simpler bottom half.
Alternatively, choose a printed multi-colored hijab to add a pop of color and create a stunning look. Shumaila Dhirani’s party dress is a great example of how to strike the right balance between glamour and modesty.
↓ 11. Winter Hijabi Traveling Attire
When packing for winter travel, it’s essential to strike a balance between warmth and practicality. For milder temperatures, consider bringing lightweight cardigans or denim jackets that can easily be stowed away in your luggage. For harsher conditions, pack more substantial items like bomber jackets and overcoats. When it comes to layering, turtleneck sweaters and hoodies are great options as they can be easily paired with a turban-style scarf or cap for added warmth and style.
Dina Tokio’s winter look featuring a bomber jacket and turban-style scarf is a great example of this. In addition to clothing, don’t forget to bring versatile accessories like viscose, jersey, and pashmina scarves that can be worn around the neck or draped over the shoulders. Woolen pants and thermal inner wear are also excellent choices for staying cozy while traveling to colder destinations. Ankle boots will help keep your feet warm and toasty, making them a must-pack item.
↓ 10. Summer Hijabi Traveling Attire
When it comes to selecting summer traveling attire, the process is often straightforward and uncomplicated, unlike the more elaborate planning required for winter outfits. One versatile option is to opt for flowy skirts that can be easily paired with various tops. Floral maxi skirts are a particularly excellent choice, providing both coverage and a trendy look. For formal occasions or parties, pleated skirts are an ideal selection, lending an air of elegance and femininity.
Additionally, consider culottes or loose-fitting trousers in cotton or denim, which not only embody the latest fashion trends but also serve as practical choices for transitioning between casual and formal settings. These pants can be paired with a variety of shirts, making them suitable for both day-to-day activities and business meetings. When sightseeing, keep flats or Converse shoes handy. For added elegance during travel, silk and georgette scarves are an excellent choice.
↓ 9. Hijabis Coverups
When venturing out as a hijabi traveler, a versatile cover-up can be a lifesaver. The right one can not only flatter your figure but also provide coverage when needed. For instance, non-sheer styles with a fit-and-flare silhouette can create a stunning look while still keeping you modest. This versatility is especially useful during winter travels, where layering up in style becomes a must.
In the summer heat, a lightweight kimono or maxi cardigan in chiffon can be a refreshing addition to your wardrobe, helping to keep you cool and stress-free. However, for colder destinations, it’s essential to pack blazers and long maxi cardigans or overcoats that can add warmth and sophistication to your outfits.
↓ 8. Different Styles and Types of Hijabs for Traveling
When venturing into warm climates, lightweight and breathable fabrics are the way to go. These types of materials will keep you cool and comfortable, making them perfect for summer travel. On the other hand, thick fabrics and layering styles are ideal for colder climates, providing the necessary insulation and coverage. For instance, chiffon, linen, and cotton fabrics are excellent choices for a summer hijab, while jersey and pashmina viscose hijabs are better suited for winter wear.
When it comes to more formal occasions like parties or weddings, a turban-style hijab is a great option, allowing you to showcase your jewelry and headpiece. For casual outings, such as sightseeing trips, a more modest style of hijab that provides proper coverage is the way to go.
↓ 7. Minimalist Wardrobe
When embarking on a trip or relocating, the benefits of a minimalist wardrobe truly come into focus. The sheer volume of clothing can make packing and decision-making a daunting task. To simplify matters, opt for pieces that are adaptable enough to create multiple outfits, effectively streamlining your overall wardrobe.
Ensure that these essentials align with your personal style, allowing you to effortlessly switch between different bottom halves, such as skirts or trousers, depending on the desired mood. A versatile dress shirt that can be tucked in and paired with various bottoms or worn with tights or leggings for a more formal look is also an excellent addition. Meanwhile, consider packing statement-making scarves and coordinating them with plain tops to add a pop of color and flair.
↓ 6. Workout Clothes to Keep Yourself Fit & Active
When embarking on a travel adventure, it’s essential to prioritize physical activity to maintain fitness levels while exploring new destinations. For hijabi travel bloggers, staying healthy while traveling is crucial to avoid gaining unwanted pounds or slowing down their active lifestyle. Zehra, for instance, is seen running swiftly through trails while wearing practical attire consisting of black sports pants, a hooded sweatshirt, and a warm jacket.
Similarly, other hijabi travel bloggers have discovered the importance of dressing comfortably and modestly while engaging in physical activities. By wrapping hair securely with a turban and donning loose-fitting clothing such as long shirts and track pants, they can focus on their workout without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions or distractions.
Moreover, several well-known brands are now catering to the needs of hijabi women by providing comfortable and modest activewear options, further empowering them to pursue an active lifestyle while traveling.
↓ 5. Keeping a Prayer Dress and Set With You
When venturing out, consider carrying a prayer dress and set with you as a convenient backup plan. This can be especially useful if you’re wearing clothing that’s not loose enough or provides sufficient coverage. Having a separate prayer dress and set at your disposal allows you to quickly change into something suitable for prayer without compromising your spiritual duties. With this approach, you’ll never feel pressured to neglect your responsibilities while away from home.
↓ 4. What Footwear to Take With You
When embarking on a trip, it’s often more practical to leave high heels behind and opt for comfortable shoes that allow for ease of movement and exploration. This becomes even more crucial when traveling to colder climates, where thick-soled boots or sneakers can provide essential protection against harsh winter weather.
Moccasins with faux-shearling lining and suede upper, for instance, can be a reliable choice, while sporty travelers may prefer Converse-style shoes that are both versatile and sturdy. For those who prioritize style, flat options like check-printed shoes with pointed toes and sequin bows can provide a chic yet practical solution. And for special occasions, such as weddings or parties, black chunky heels with embellished velvet can offer both comfort and glamour.
↓ 3. Handbags to Carry with You
When hitting the road, it’s essential to be mindful of your luggage constraints. A single, well-chosen bag – such as a packable cross-body bag – can make all the difference in terms of ease and convenience during travel. Consider packing a larger tote or backpack for those occasions when you need to carry more essentials, like a picnic lunch or beach gear, without feeling weighed down.
↓ 2. Makeup & Skin Care Items To Carry
When it comes to creating a natural, everyday look while wearing hijab, finding the right balance of makeup and skincare products is crucial. To avoid greasiness and stubborn marks on your hijab, opt for lightweight formulas that won’t compromise your style. A highlighter and blush can add a touch of radiance, while eye makeup can create subtle drama. For lip colors, two to three shades – including pink, brown, and red – should cover most everyday looks.
Don’t forget essential skincare products like moisturizer, cleanser, sunscreen, and face masks if you plan on spending time outdoors or in dry climates.
↓ 1. What Accessories Go Well With Hijab
When it comes to hijabs, accessories are often the unsung heroes. Hijab pins and caps don’t just keep your scarf in place for longer – they also elevate your overall style. The right combination can make all the difference between a simple scarf and a chic, polished look.
When dressing up for special occasions like weddings and parties, it’s essential to consider the right headpieces to complement your hijab.
A floral head garland or some subtle head jewelry can add a touch of glamour to your outfit. As you can’t wear traditional necklaces, a metallic headpiece can provide that extra sparkle. To complete the look, don’t forget to bring along some statement bracelets and rings for those special events.
