As we’re now back from an epic 42-day adventure spanning New England winter, Australian summer, New Zealand’s varied climates, and a quick hit of Hawaiian heat. I’ve thought a bit about how to help my fellow travelers conquer the packing challenge. Preparing for diverse trips, especially for active travelers such as ourselves who enjoy spending most of our time outdoors, isn’t easy but with the right preparation you can nail this. 

Before I offer some specific suggestions, consider the following:

Laundry: Planning laundry stops every 10 days or so is part of my strategy.  You’ll appreciate the refresh.

Footwear: Ditch the shoe collection; a versatile pair of hiking shoes and comfortable everyday sneakers will handle any adventure.

Dress Clothes: Skip the formal attire; a crisp, clean casual outfit will get you into almost any restaurant these days, even in traditionally formal cities worldwide, so save precious suitcase space

The Secret Weapon Layering: Master the art of layering with lightweight, quick-dry pieces; it’s your best defense against unpredictable weather swings. With that, here’s my multi-climate packing list other than footwear and I’ve included some specific product ideas from reputable companies Amazon and Columbia Sportswear that should be perfect for anyone planning a similar globetrotting journey.

The Secret Weapon: Layering for Travel: Forget overpacking! The key to successful multi-climate travel is a smart layering system.

Some Suggestions:

• Base Layer Tops (2 Sets): Stay comfortable in fluctuating temperatures by wicking moisture and providing a crucial layer of warmth or coolness.  I particularly like the products from 32 Degrees that are available at Amazon (and sometimes seasonally at Costco)
  • Amazon 32 Degrees Men’s Baselayer Stretch Long-Sleeve Crewneck: Affordable, quick-drying, and comfortable.
  • Amazon 32 Degrees Women’s Baselayer Stretch Long-Sleeve Mockneck: Affordable, quick-drying, and comfortable.
• Packable Down Jacket: Lightweight and compressible, these add significant warmth without taking up much space.  Consider these affordable options from Columbia Sportswear:
  • Columbia Men’s Powder Lite II Hooded Jacket: Lightweight, warm, and packs down small.
  • Women’s Powder Lite II Hybrid Hooded Jacket: A very cost-effective option that looks great.
• Waterproof/Windproof Shell: Critical to shield yourself from rain and wind, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable during outdoor adventures.  Consider:
  • Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket: Reliable waterproof protection and packable.
  • Amazon – Outdoor Research Women’s Helium Rain Jacket Fashionable, reasonably priced, breathable and packable
• Convertible Hiking Pants: Enjoy freedom of movement and durability on trails, with quick-drying, abrasion-resistant fabric.  Because pant’s sizing is always challenging I’d go to a good outdoors or sporting goods retailer near you for these.
• Quick-Drying Shirts (Short & Long Sleeve): Stay fresh and comfortable in any climate with moisture-wicking, fast-drying shirts that are easy to wash and wear. Whether your style is polo shirts, tee shirts, or somthing different, thin, avoiding cotton’s and other absorbant fabrics.
• Swim Trunks and UV Swim shirt: Be ready for spontaneous dips in lakes, oceans, or pools.  Consider versatile swim trunks that double as shorts.  If you’re going tropical or sub-tropical, protect your skin from harmful sun rays with a lightweight UV swim shirt. 
• Hat:  Don’t forget to protect your head, face and eyes from the sun, or add an extra layer of warmth in cooler climates.
• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and glare, ensuring clear vision and comfort during your travels.  If you can afford it, buy a quality pair with great polarized lenses.  I love the quality and design of Revo which are available through Amazon, having switched about a decade ago from Maui Jim’s which are also excellent. 
  • REVO Sunglasses – Stylish, Lightweight and amazing lenses

Climate-Specific Travel Planning:

• Australian Summer (Hot & Humid): Lightweight, breathable clothes were essential. My waterproof shell was a lifesaver for unexpected rain and winds.
• New Zealand (Warm Days, Cool Nights): The layering system shined here. Base layers and a light shirt during the day, down jacket for evenings.
• Hawaii (Tropical Heat): Swim trunks, lightweight shirts, and sunscreen were all I needed for this brief but intense heat.

Travel Tip: Returning to Winter

Landing back in New England winter, I was thankful for my packable down jacket and shell. I made sure they were accessible in my carry-on for a smooth transition.

Optimize your Travel:

• Travel Light: Stick to essential items and a smart layering system.
• Multi climate travel: plan for the most extreme weather you will encounter.
• Travel packing list: make a list and check it twice.