The Ultimate Guide to Travel Activewear

Hey there, fellow travelers! If you're anything like me, you love to stay active no matter where your adventures take you. Whether you're hiking up a mountain or exploring a new city, having the right activewear can make all the difference.

In this blog post, I'm going to dive into the world of travel activewear, sharing my favorite picks and tips for staying comfortable and chic on the go. We'll explore different types of leggings, sports bras, tops, shorts, and even active dresses. And because I know how important it is to choose the right materials, we'll also discuss the pros and cons of various fabrics. So, let's get started and make sure you're ready for your next adventure!

 

The Staples of a Travel Active Wardrobe

1) Leggings

Leggings are a travel essential for any active traveler. They're versatile, comfortable, and can be dressed up or down. Here are some key styles to consider:

High-Waisted vs. Mid-Rise: High-waisted leggings are perfect for providing extra support and coverage, especially if you're doing activities like yoga or hiking. Mid-rise leggings are a great option if you prefer a more relaxed fit around the waist.

Full-Length vs. Cropped: Full-length leggings are ideal for cooler climates or when you need extra coverage. Cropped leggings are perfect for warmer weather and can double as capris.

Here are my top picks for leggings:

• wayre's High Rise Pocket Legging: These amazingly soft, high-rise leggings are perfect for travel. The sustainably-made material offers four-way stretch which allows for freedom of movement. I also love the (very) deep side pockets! Currently available in Black and light Pebble color. Rumor has it that more colors may be coming soon (wink, wink).

• Girlfriend Collective’s FLOAT Ultralight Legging: My go-to leggings for warmer days! The FLOAT material is really lightweight and soft but still offers enough support for workouts. Girlfriend Collective’s leggings are made from recycled materials and come in a variety of colors and sizes. Their sizing ranges from XXS up to 6XL. 

 

2) Sports Bras

A good sports bra is a must-have for any active traveler. It provides the support you need while keeping you comfortable throughout the day.

Low Impact vs. High Impact: Low-impact sports bras are great for activities like yoga or walking. High-impact bras will support more intense workouts like running or HIIT.

Racerback vs. Cross-Back Styles: Racerback sports bras offer great support and a full range of motion. They are ideal for activities like running or weightlifting. Cross-back styles are not only supportive but also add a stylish touch to your workout outfit.

Here are my top picks for sports bras: 

• wayre's High Support Adjustable Longline Bra: wayre's sports bra is designed with the active traveler in mind. I love the adjustable straps and removable pads.

• Girlfriend Collective’s Milo Racerback Bra: This lightweight, full coverage bra is probably the most-worn item from my activewear drawer.

 

3) Active Tops

When it comes to active tops, versatility is key. You want something that can keep you cool during a workout but also look good enough to wear out and about.

Tanks vs. T-Shirts: Tank tops are great for hot weather and high-intensity workouts, while t-shirts offer a bit more coverage and can be layered under jackets or hoodies.

Long-Sleeve Options for Layering: Long-sleeve tops are perfect for layering, especially if you're traveling to a destination with unpredictable weather. Look for options made from breathable materials that can keep you warm without overheating.

Here are my top picks for active tops:

• Girlfriend Collective’s Muscle Tee: If you like muscle tanks, you will love this tank! It’s made from 50% recycled cotton and 50% organic cotton which makes it super soft and comfy. I love the high neck and dropped arm holes. This is my go-to workout top but it’s also great for casual wear on a hot day.

• Quince Flowknit Breeze Racerback Tank: Quince offers high-quality active tops at affordable prices. Their tops are made from recycled materials and are designed to be both comfortable and stylish. This tank is one of my favorite workout tanks.

 

4) Shorts

Shorts are a must-have for any warm-weather destination. They're comfortable, breathable, and perfect for a variety of activities.

Bike Shorts vs. Running Shorts: Bike shorts are great for activities like cycling or yoga, while running shorts are designed for maximum breathability and freedom of movement.

Compression Shorts: Compression shorts offer extra support and can help improve circulation during your workouts. They're a great option for high-intensity activities or long days on your feet.

Here are my favorite active shorts:

• wayre's High Rise Pocket Biker Short: wayre's high-rise biker shorts are designed with the active traveler in mind. They're made from quick-drying materials and have side pockets for your essentials.

 

5) Active Dresses

Active dresses are a fun and stylish option for the active traveler. They're perfect for activities like hiking, tennis, or even just exploring a new city.

Tennis-Style Dresses: Tennis-style dresses are designed to be both functional and fashionable. Look for active dresses that come with built-in shorts and support to ensure you're comfortable and covered during your activities.

Here is my favorite active dress:

• Girlfriend Collective’s Paloma Racerback Dress: This super cute workout dress comes with built-in shorts. It’s super comfy and stylish enough to be worn while exploring a new city. 

 

Materials and Their Pros and Cons

Let's talk about one of the most crucial aspects of travel activewear: the materials. As someone who's been caught in unexpected downpours and has sweated through intense hikes, I can tell you that the fabric of your clothes can make or break your travel experience. So, let's dive in!

 

1) Synthetic Fabrics: The High-Tech Heroes

Polyester

• Pros: Lightweight, quick-drying, durable, wrinkle-resistant, affordable
• Cons: Can retain odors, less breathable, not eco-friendly

Spandex/Elastane

• Pros: Excellent stretch and recovery, shape-retaining, great for blending
• Cons: Not breathable alone, can degrade over time, potential latex allergy issues

 

2) Natural Fabrics: Mother Nature's Finest

Bamboo

• Pros: Soft, comfortable, moisture-wicking, anti-bacterial, eco-friendly
• Cons: More expensive, may shrink, sometimes less durable

Merino Wool

• Pros: Temperature-regulating, odor-resistant, moisture-wicking, quick-drying
• Cons: Pricey, requires careful washing, can be itchy for some

Organic Cotton

• Pros: Soft, breathable, hypoallergenic, environmentally friendly
• Cons: Slow-drying, can shrink or lose shape, heavier than synthetics

 

3) Blended Fabrics: The Best of Both Worlds

Poly-Cotton Blends

• Pros: Combines cotton comfort with polyester durability, wrinkle-resistant, affordable
• Cons: Less breathable than pure cotton, can pill, not as quick-drying as synthetics

Nylon-Spandex Blends

• Pros: Stretchy, shape-retaining, durable, quick-drying, moisture-wicking
• Cons: Less breathable than natural fabrics, may retain odors, prone to static

 

When it comes to choosing the right material for your travel activewear, it really depends on your specific needs and preferences. Personally, I'm a big fan of blended fabrics that combine the best properties of different materials. For example, wayre's Active Collection uses a blend of recycled polyester and spandex in many of their pieces, offering both sustainability and performance.

Remember, the key is to choose fabrics that suit your activities and destination. If you're heading to a humid tropical location, breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics like bamboo or certain synthetic blends might be your best bet. For cooler climates or multi-day hikes, merino wool could be a game-changer.

Don't be afraid to mix and match! I often pack a variety of materials to cover all my bases. And hey, if you're unsure, why not visit your local outdoor store and feel the fabrics for yourself? Trust me, once you find the right materials for your travel style, you'll wonder how you ever adventured without them!

 

Pack Versatile Pieces

As a seasoned traveler, I've learned that less is often more. Look for items that can pull double duty. For example, a pair of leggings can take you from a morning yoga session to an afternoon of sightseeing.

Remember, the goal is to pack light while still being prepared for anything your trip throws at you!

 

Care and Maintenance Tips for Travel Activewear

Taking care of your activewear on the road doesn't have to be a chore. Here are some tips to keep your gear fresh and functional throughout your trip.

 

Washing and Drying Recommendations:

• Hand wash when possible.
• If using a machine, turn your clothes inside out and use cold water to preserve the fabric and colors.
• Avoid fabric softeners – they can clog the pores in performance fabrics and reduce their moisture-wicking abilities.
• Air dry whenever you can.
• If you must use a dryer, use low heat to avoid damaging the elastic fibers.

 

Conclusion

Whew! We've covered a lot of ground, haven't we? Let's recap some key points:

• Choose activewear that suits your destination's climate and your planned activities.
• Opt for versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched for different occasions.
• Look for quick-drying and odor-resistant fabrics to make your travel life easier.
• Take care of your activewear on the road with proper washing techniques.

Remember, investing in quality travel activewear is investing in your comfort and enjoyment on your trips. As you can tell from my top picks, I have my favorite activewear brands. Their items combine style, functionality, and sustainability which are all very important to me. We all have different priorities, styles and budget, so choose what works best for YOU.

So, my fellow wanderers, next time you're packing for a trip, think about the activewear you're bringing along. Choose pieces that will support your adventures and keep you comfortable. After all, the best travels are those where you feel ready for anything! Now, go out there and explore the world in style and comfort. 

 

Happy travels!