The wardrobe when you travel a lot for work

Short answer: When half your nights are spent away from home, your wardrobe has to pack well. Choose few colours, thin fabrics and pieces that dry overnight, so your suitcase gets smaller and packing before each trip takes less time.

Everything should mix and match

With two base colours, five pieces can become ten outfits, and your suitcase shrinks by half. When everything goes together, you do not need to plan each day or pack extra just in case. Pick the two colours you already own most of. Start with our women's clothing.

Drying time is a must

If a piece can be washed in a sink and dry overnight, you only need to bring half as much. That matters when you are often away several nights in a row. Thin layers dry faster than thick ones, which goes for base layers and nightwear such as bamboo slips that take up almost no space.

Creases cost time

Fabrics that smooth out on their own save you hunting for an iron at the hotel late at night. Roll your clothes instead of folding them to avoid sharp creases. Choose knitwear such as a women's bamboo hoodie that still looks neat after a day in the suitcase.

Pack from a fixed list

If you travel often, keep a fixed packing list and use it every time. You will not forget the charger or an extra set of base layers, and you spend less time thinking. Adjust the list to the length of the trip but keep the core the same. Many people also keep a toiletry bag packed and ready.

Base layers take the least space

Shoes and outer layers take up the most room, while base layers barely take any. So you can pack a couple of extra sets of underwear and tops without noticing. That gives peace of mind if a trip is extended or you do not find time to wash because the days are full.

Wash on the go on longer trips

On trips longer than five days, washing along the way saves half your luggage. A small pouch of detergent and a sink are often enough for base layers. Wash in the evening, roll the clothes in a towel to press out most of the water and hang them overnight.

Keep one smart outfit ready

Even on short trips a dinner or meeting may come up where you want to look a little sharper than in travel clothes. Keep one outfit that looks neat and goes with the rest of your wardrobe. It does not need much space, but it is reassuring to have something suitable with you.

Think about comfort in transit

Long hours on trains, planes or in the car put demands on what you wear. Clothes that pinch at the waist or rub at the shoulders get annoying when you sit still for a long time. Choose soft waistbands and a layer you can take on and off as temperatures change.

Frequently asked questions

How many pieces for a week away

Five tops, two bottoms and seven sets of base layers. With two base colours, most pieces combine freely.

Should you wash along the way

On trips over five days it saves half your luggage. Thin base layers can be washed in a sink in the evening and be dry by morning.

What takes up the most space

Shoes and outer layers. Base layers take almost no room, so an extra set fits if the trip runs longer.