Traveling doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style, especially with insights from fashion guru Tan France. Known for his expertise, France provides practical tips for traveling light while maintaining a fashionable appearance. He recently partnered with Europe’s train booking app, Trainline, to unveil a European style guide called ‘trainleisure,’ tailored for travel across the UK, France, and Italy.
France’s first tip for a seamless and stylish travel experience is about shoe choice. Avoid the temptation of packing multiple pairs; instead, limit yourself to three: one to wear during transit and two options in your carry-on. He emphasizes wearing the heaviest pair for travel, like loafers, heels, or boots, to conserve space and luggage weight. For added comfort, he suggests keeping slippers handy to swap into once seated.
In your luggage, pack a pair of lightweight sneakers suitable for city exploration, ensuring they can handle all types of weather. Complement this with a stylish, leather slide-on sandal for lighter activities and casual outings.
When planning outfits, France advises against trying to emulate local fashions too closely, as it often results in looking like you’re in costume. Instead, focus on clothing that makes you feel confident and comfortable. He also suggests utilizing shoe space for packing smaller items like socks and accessories, enhancing your packing efficiency.
Always prepare for weather unpredictability by packing in layers. Choose multiple lighter layers over a single bulky one for more outfit versatility. This tactic not only saves space but also ensures style coherence. Avoid vacuum-seal bags that can excessively wrinkle clothing.
Lastly, leaving room in your luggage for shopping is a smart move. By packing light, you give yourself the opportunity to bring home unique finds that can’t be purchased locally. Consider an extra, foldable bag for new items, and utilize wearing bulkier new purchases during travel to avoid exceeding luggage limits.
An expert in fashion, Tan France is best known for his role on Netflix’s ‘Queer Eye’ and is recognized for his memoir, ‘Naturally Tan,’ which became a New York Times Bestseller. His insights into travel and style create the perfect balance for the modern traveler.
