How to Pack Bohemian Style

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.

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21 Comments

  1. Julia says:

    I personally am obsessed with palazzo trousers, because they generally look like a maxi skirt but are also comfy as PJs, and they are appropriate to wear in pretty much all cultures.
    Julia recently posted..What sustainable tourism really means, Part IMy Profile

  2. I am so not a Bohemian traveler :-)

  3. I brought jewelry with me when I first went on long-term travel, but ended up shipping it all home. This is a great list for people who aren’t traveling too long, as boots and big items take up space. Love the idea of a maxi skirt!
    dtravelsround recently posted..Are you a stripper? And other questions about living in Las VegasMy Profile

  4. Great tips! I agree — comfortable shoes are a travel must!

  5. Ross says:

    Okay, I know this one is for the ladies, but what’s with the photo? Why are you dressed like that in the sun in front of saguaros? It just doesn’t look right.
    Ross recently posted..Jianchuan Photoshopped – Part 1My Profile

  6. Laura says:

    I had problems with my shoes a few times during my travels. Finding the right comfortable pair is very, very important… or I’ll end up walking again bare feet through the city looking for a shoe shop.
    Laura recently posted..Going For A Bite Of Traditional Food During Las Fallas Festival From ValenciaMy Profile

  7. I hate when I leave my ballet flats at home:)
    D.J. – The World of Deej recently posted..Hard Rock Tampa – One Cool HotelMy Profile

  8. Cindy says:

    For me shoes are always a problem. Because what may seem comfortable, becomes uncomfortable after several miles – so it’s always a matter of testing.

  9. cheryl says:

    I love this list! Soooo cute. :)
    cheryl recently posted..Street Art and Graffiti in Gdansk, Poland.My Profile

  10. Any thoughts on California?
    I love the LA and Bay areas and with all the
    recent housing news I am thinking about maybe
    looking for somthing in one of the areas.
    I am not sure yet would like ideas…

    Thank you,
    Hamilton

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