As a bohemian traveler, I try my best to pack as light as possible. There is nothing worse than lugging around a massive suitcase from hostel to hostel. However, I’ve always had an interested in fashion so here are a few items I bring with me wherever I go:
Sorry, boys…this one is primarily written for the ladies.
Chunky Scarf: For winter travel, this is a must-have item. During spring or even summer, depending on where you are, bringing along a thin scarf always adds a bit to an outfit. Before leaving Istanbul, I made sure to purchase a thick scarf from a local vendor. This particular scarf is multi-colored so it goes with pretty much my whole wardrobe.
Knit Hat: Again, this is essential for winter weather but it’s bohemian enough to wear all year round. I have a black knit hat that I bring almost anywhere. They are comfortable and barely take up any space in your suitcase. It’s great for dressing up a casual ensemble or dressing down a more elegant dress or skirt.
Light-weight Blazer: I’m slightly obsessed with blazers because I think they are effortlessly bohemian. I’m big into the “layered” look and blazers work perfectly for this style. In warm weather you can just wear a shirt or tank underneath and in colder weather, wear a thick sweater underneath.
Maxi Skirt: This may sound like a strange item to pack but maxi skirts are stylish without being constricting. I actually climbed a mountain in Jujuy, Argentina wearing ballet flats and a maxi skirt. Despite not being properly dressed, I was certainly the most fashionable traveler that day on the mountain.
Ballet Flats: Speaking of shoes, ballet flats are ideal for fall, spring and summer. I used to pack heels but after one or two trips I quickly realized that with so much walking, they were the last thing I wanted to put on my feet. For winter weather, find a pair of boots that are functional and fashionable.
Slouchy Bag: Usually when I travel these days, I’m carrying around my laptop backpack rather than a full-on purse, but I do prefer slouchy materials because they are easy to pack in your luggage and they actually hold a lot of items. Eco-friendly bags are another personal favorite. I have a few handmade bags from my time in Peru and they travel very well.
Avant-Garde Accessories: Bohemian travelers are trendy without even trying so accessories should reflect your personality. I tend to adore vintage necklaces, hats and scarves so I usually pack one or two of each. The great thing about bringing along jewelry and accessories is that they can completely transform an outfit.
Megan Eileen McDonough is writer, blogger and social media specialist based in New York City. She also runs Bohemian Trails, a lifestyle blog designed for the savvy and stylish traveler. Bohemian Trails aims to feature must-see places around the world, covering everything from revamped neighborhoods and vibrant street art to innovative tech hubs and everything in between. Her cultural escapades have taken her to Latin America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Megan is also a freelance writer and social media specialist based in New York City. She contributes to various online and print publications in the travel and fashion industries and is an international correspondent for both Jetsetter and Northstar Travel Media.
