Ladies, we all know how challenging it can be to pack for a trip. But if you’re traveling to a religiously conservative country, things can get that much harder (and a little overwhelming). If you’re planning a trip to a predominantly muslim country, you may be thinking something along the lines of…
What am I going to wear? Should I cover my hair? Will I need to be fully covered even if it’s burning hot outside?
It’s important to first note that each Muslim country will be a little different depending and their sensitivities will be impacted by how much tourism from westerners they typically receive. As a tourist, you will likely stick out no matter how much you try to blend in, but being aware and sensitive to local cultural norms should be a priority. I’ve made the mistake myself of wearing a short skirt and shorts when walking around public areas, and quickly learned my lesson. So to help you, I’ve put together some advice for you to consider when packing for your next trip to a predominantly muslim region.
What Not to Wear
To make things easy, I’ll start with what not to wear. Even though you’re sure to see women tourists from all walks of life breaking these rules, the goal is to not be one of them. Here’s what I’d say are the biggest NO’s for wearing when visiting public areas:
-Crop tops / strapless tops
-Short shorts / mini skirts and dresses
-Backless clothing / cleavage
-Avoid overly tight clothing
What to Wear
So that you respect the local culture and avoid attracting negative attention (and harassment), it’s important to dress appropriately for where you are. Maxi dresses, midi skirts, billowing blouses and shirts in loose and breathable fabric (you can’t go wrong with cotton or linen) are great options to stay chic but culturally appropriate. Short shorts, mini skirts, and swimwear can of course be worn, just be sure you’re either on the beach or in a private hotel, resort, or villa when doing so.
Dresses
As I mentioned above, maxi dresses are fantastic - especially if they are loose and flow. Insider tip: avoid anything that is too long or drags on the ground. You don’t want your dress dragging along the streets when walking around the streets of a city. A midi or knee length dress works great as well.
Scarves
A lightweight scarf or even a sarong wrapped around your shoulders will come in very handy and are essential when when walking around during the day. They are particularly handy if you plan to visit any mosques or sacred places of worship.
Shoes
Sandals, mules, kitten heels, or flip flops are ideal - go for comfort if you’ll be walking around.
Skirts
Knee length skirts are best. Again, avoid anything that is overly tight and made fully of spandex. A sarong can also work if tied in a way that doesn’t show too much of your legs.
Pants / Shorts / Culottes
I keep reiterating…go for cotton or linen. Especially for pants. You do not want to wear jeans (especially tightly fitted ones) because YOU WILL DIE in the heat and humidity. Unless you’re visiting a muslim region in the winter.
Tops
Wearing spaghetti strapped tops will typically be fine, though that could depend on the specific region on you’re visiting. If you’re visiting an area that is used to having western tourists you can probably get away with it, I would just bring along a scarf to cover your shoulders just in case.
