What to Wear on an Active Vacation: An Outfit Guide for Women

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto: "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Window—best view in the house."

See recent posts by Ashley Rossi

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Whether you’re going on a trekking trip or visiting a mountain town, casual attire is becoming increasingly popular and stylish—which is a godsend for frequent travelers. The comfortable fabrics and easy-to wash-materials are perfect for those constantly on the move.

What to Wear on an Active Vacation

Here are seven outfits similar to what I wore on a recent trip to Vail, Colorado that are perfect for any active vacation scenario.

On the Plane

Travel days are all about layers and unexpected situations, so make sure you have a wide variety of temperature needs covered. These open-front cardigans are perfect for the plane when paired with a stylish (and thin) sweat pant, headband, and a loose knit shirt. Compression socks are always key, but never come in stylish options right? Well, these ones from MPG are different.

I also always travel with a reusable water bottle as part of my plane-ride essentials.

Hiking & Climbing

Layers are essential for hiking, as climates vary greatly from base to summit. This hooded backpack means you won’t need to pack an extra rain layer. Complete the look with a vented hat for sun protection, a tank, double layer sports bra, long sleeve layer, hiking-sneaker hybrid, and short capri leggings.

Cycling

Take on the road with this cycling zip jersey, a light jacket, and padded cropped leggings. If you’re going to be doing intense biking on your trip, all of these products from MPG have hidden high-visibility features. Don’t forget appropriate shoes (if necessary, or rent them) and a hydration belt.

Zip-Lining

For zip-lining, or a similar climbing-related activity, you’ll want no-fuss layers. Wear a full-zip hoodie, cropped leggings, a zip-front bra, and low-armhole tank. The company you are going with will most likely have a small bag to attach to you for personal belongings, as well as jackets in case of inclement weather.

Water Activities

If water sports are on your itinerary, make sure to pack durable sandals, a no-fuss bathing suit top (like this H20 bra), quick dry shorts, and a top that covers your shoulders. A thick headband or wrap will also help manage wet hair.

Cold Weather

Active winter-weather packing is all about layers, like these fleece-lined leggings. Complete the look with a wool long-sleeve base layer and a PrimaLoft insulated jacket–this one even folds into itself for easy packing. To keep your feet warm, go with thermal socks and waterproof boots.

And, don’t forget gloves, a scarf, and hat if the weather is going to get extra chilly.

Casual Dinner

These front-cuffed capris and casual kimono tee are great for any mild climate, and are still super-comfortable and casual. Pair with these slip-on shoes and a tote bag for a complete look.

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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