Never Travel Without a Scarf– 10 Reasons for Packing one, No Matter the Weather!
Though a scarf may not be at the top of your packing list (especially if your destination is tropical), I find them indispensable in a variety of situations. I always pack one, no matter what the climate. Here are the top 10 reasons why a scarf is more than just a fashion statement:
10. On a long bus trip, when you can’t get the dusty curtains to close, hang your scarf over the curtain rod to block out the sun in your eyes.
9. You’re tired of carrying the shopping bag of souvenirs you bought, so loop your scarf through the handles and tie it across your body in a makeshift strap.
8. Cover the neck straps of the passport wallet you have tied around your neck for added security.
Just a gorgeous photo of a Crochet Scarf from VIVMag's previous issue.
7. You’re touring a religious site and you’re wearing a tank top. Spread your scarf out and wear it as a shawl for added modesty.
6. After being in the sun all day, your face and nose are starting to turn pink from the sun. Wrap your scarf around your head and pull it just in front of your face- you’ll be surprised how much sun and heat you can block out.
5. Stadium seating at an event finds you in a short skirt or shorts. Use your scarf to make sure the main event isn’t the view of your undies.
4. On a train you ride through a foul-smelling waste processing area (this happens A LOT in 3rd world countries). Use your scarf to block out odors.
Another gorgeous studio shot- Sosume's Black Sheer Scarf
3. On your group tour, there are several bags lined up in the lobby that look like yours. Tie your scarf to the outside of the bag to save time locating the right one later on.
2. Since you’ve been wandering around mesmerized by the sights and smells of the town you’re visiting, you’ve wandered away from your friends, who are now looking for you. You’re thankful you have the scarf to wave around and get their attention.
1. You’ve meandered down to the beach, but have forgotten to put your bikini in your day bag. You want to lounge and get a tan anyway, so wrap your scarf behind your back, criss-cross in the front and tie it behind your neck. Voila! You’re ready for the sun.
These days companies have caught on to how useful scarves can be and have started adding pockets for your iPod, cash, etc. but if my scarf were loaded down with belongings, it wouldn’t be nearly so highly functional as the plain version. Black or dark blue cotton weave is my preference for warm climates, while wool will feel nicer in the cold, of course. Remember, a functional scarf may get roughed up, so don’t bring your finest except on evenings when you’ll dress up for a fancy dinner. Have I convinced you to bring a scarf on your next holiday? Happy travels to you! -Karen
The photos in this post were lifted (with gracious permission) from VIV Magazine in their Nov/Dec article, “Wrap Stars” by Karen Marsala, seen here:
4 Responses to “Never Travel Without a Scarf– 10 Reasons for Packing one, No Matter the Weather!”
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Fantastic ideas and would have never thought of, and imagine the little bit of room a scarf takes and wow what an accent. I have never thought of taking one traveling only if it was going to cold. Thanks so much for sharing the ideas.
I never thought about all of those use of scarves. But, hey, I’m a guy.
Although, I often have my Gator… what is it? a scarf? a hanky? well, my Gator piece of cloth attached to my backpack to make sure I recognize it among others.
I packed a few scarves when I went to Italy. It was colder than I thought it would be, and it really kept me a lot warmer. The lighter scarves can dress up your outfit, and make you look dresser if the occassion arises. Great article.
Love all the creative uses you’ve found for scarves. I always pack at least one, even for summer travel….nights can get chilly and, as you stated, they can provide shoulder coverage for religious site visits. Love the photos, too…inspiring. Try as I do to vary my scarf tying methods, I don’t seem to have the gene necessary to do it.