What to Pack for Conservative Countries: The Ultimate Guide

When traveling to conservative countries, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms and dress codes.

In some cases, you may be required to cover up more than you are used to, especially when visiting countries with a large Muslim population or other more conservative countries.

This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on what to pack for conservative countries to dress appropriately.

We will cover travel tips on everything from clothes to accessories so that you can feel confident and prepared with your outfits and proper clothing when visiting a place with stricter dress codes!

Things to consider when packing for conservative countries

Cover exposed skin

When visiting a country with a large Muslim population, it is important to ensure your arms and legs are covered.

Make sure you have your shoulders covered and a high neckline. Ideally, wrists and ankles should be covered too.

Make sure nothing is see-through

Some fabrics can seem opaque but can become sheerer in certain lights.

Hold your clothing up to the light, test it in different environments, take a selfie of your outfit with the flash on and double-check that no one can see any glimpses of underwear or skin showing through.

Ensure nothing has offensive prints or images

What is obviously classed as a joke in one culture can be highly offensive to another.

Make sure there is no miscommunication by double-checking any clothing with text or images is completely neutral and could not be misconstrued as offensive.

No clothing that’s too tight

Make sure your outfits are modest and not too tight-fitting. You should not be able to make out the lines of your figure when you are going outside.

Loose flowing clothing can look culturally appropriate and fashionable!

When in doubt, go for darker colors and muted tones

If you are unsure about what colors are appropriate to wear, it is always better to err on the side of caution and go for darker colors or muted tones. Some good options include black, navy, or grey.

Dress for the climate

Bringing the right clothes with you on your trip can make all the difference in how comfortable you feel.

The key is staying cool and covered while respecting conservative countries’ cultural norms.

Many conservative countries have very warm climates, especially in summer, so consider this when packing, so you don’t overheat.

Consider religious festivals

When visiting a country during a religious festival, it is even more important to be aware of the dress code.

Most festivals will have specific guidelines on what visitors should wear. For example, during the Hajj in Saudi Arabia, all visitors must wear white clothes to symbolize purity.

You should also approach traveling during Ramadan with extra attention to conservative clothing.

Be careful when visiting religious sites

Even if you are visiting a moderate country, conservatism is sure to increase if you plan to visit temples or other places of worship.

Even in Southeast Asia, you must fully cover from mid-calf to short sleeve length when visiting sites of cultural or religious importance.

Clothing to bring conservative countries

Tops

Make sure the neckline of your top is high and limit skin showing in the decalage area as much as possible.

Button-down shirts are great for this, and you can still look vacation-ready.

Kaftans are another traveler’s favorite. Make sure you choose one that will cover your shoulders and will hang loosely, making sure you keep cool as well as stylish.

For cooler climates, turtle necks, sweaters or cardigans can be great for covering up and dressing modestly.

Tank tops are definitely a no-go unless you are by your hotel pool, but t-shirts should be fine if they cover your shoulders and aren’t too tight!

This floral tunic is perfect for covering your neckline and upper arms while still being bright and on-trend!

Skirts

Skirts are perfectly acceptable in conservative countries so long as they are at least midi length (a maxi skirt is better!) and are loose.

They can be a great option for staying cool too. This maxi skirt option below is a bargain and comes in a wide variety of prints and sizes.

Pants and Shorts

Ladies should steer clear of shorts, especially short shorts! Ideally, you should cover your full legs and ankles.

However, depending on the conservatism in your chosen destination, a loose-fitting pair of capri pants or cropped trousers should be fine.

Grab a pair of your favorite leggings to wear under any shorter dresses or skirts. That way, your legs will stay respectfully covered while showing off your best vacation style.

I love to wear full-length loose, lightweight linen pants to beat the heat while remaining aware of the local customs.

Dresses

Maxi dresses are perfect for conservative countries, plus they are cool in warmer climates and are ideal for vacations!

Midi dresses can be fine in all but the most conservative locations, as long as your knees are fully covered.

My go-to evening favorite is a maxi dress with a shawl over my shoulders. The shawl protects me from freezing air conditioning too!

Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits can be the perfect combination of looking stylish and covering up.

They come in a wide variety of styles, from dressy to beachy, so you should have no problem finding one that meets your needs.

This floral jumpsuit is one of my favorites, it’s cool, loose, and flattering whilst being on-trend and vacation-ready!

Scarves

You can use a lightweight pashmina scarf in so many ways when you travel. I always pack one for a long trip.

In conservative countries, there are many more uses. You can use a scarf to cover your hair if appropriate or wrap it around your waist to make a skirt look longer.

The main way I use my scarf in conservative countries is to drape it over my shoulders to cover up exposed skin.

This is perfect if you are heading into a nightclub or restaurant where the dress code is relaxed, but you still need to remain covered for your journey to and from the venue.

Dressing conservatively for Men

Men visiting conservative countries have fewer rules to follow, but it is still important to remain culturally sensitive and show respect.

Men should ensure that shorts are knee-length and clothes aren’t too tight. They should also ensure that prints do not have offensive content or show expletives.

Be careful not to walk around topless as you might in other warm climates. It is not seen as acceptable unless you are by the pool or at the beach!

FAQ’s

Why do some countries dress conservatively?

There are a variety of reasons why some countries have stricter dress codes. In many cases, it is due to religious reasons.

Additionally, some cultures believe that it is more respectful to cover up your body.

What happens if I don’t dress conservatively in a country that requires it?

If you are not dressed conservatively in a country requiring it, you may be subject to a fine or punishment.

Additionally, you may make the locals feel uncomfortable. It is always best to err on the side of caution and dress conservatively when in doubt!

What countries should you pack conservatively for?

Some examples of countries that have the strictest dress codes include Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Afghanistan.

However, there are many other countries that still require conservative clothing, although they are a little more relaxed, including Malaysia and Dubai. When in doubt, research the specific country you are visiting!

What does wearing conservative clothes mean?

When we say conservative clothes, we mean clothing that covers your body. This includes items such as long pants, long skirts, and dresses.

Additionally, it is important to ensure that you cover your shoulders and chest. In some cases, you may also be required to wear a headscarf.

Do I have to wear conservative clothes 24/7?

No, you usually only have to dress conservatively in public places, such as when you are outside or visiting a government building.

In your hotel room or other private areas, you can usually dress however you feel comfortable!

In some hotels or touristy areas, locals are used to seeing tourists dress in more revealing ways, which has become more accepted, but check with your hotel front desk to see what the local customs are where you are visiting!

Do I need to cover my hair in conservative countries?

In most cases, no… Saudi Arabia made it no longer compulsory for women to cover their heads in 2019.

However, countries may differ depending on your destination. Please check ahead of time to see the culturally appropriate thing to do where you are traveling.

How can I make sure I don’t receive unwanted attention?

The best way to avoid unwanted attention is to dress conservatively and follow the guidelines above.

Additionally, it is important to be aware of your body language and ensure you are not sending out any signals that you are interested in anything more than friendship!

So, whether you’re a man or woman traveling to a conservative country for the first time, it is important to be aware of the dress code and cultural norms.

By following these expectations and putting in a little effort, you will avoid unwanted attention or punishment.

Remember that when in doubt, it is always best to err on the side of caution!

We hope you’ve found all the info you need in these exclusive travel tips.

Have you visited a conservative country? Comment below to share your favorite conservative outfits!