Shunning five-star luxuries and the hotels-that-have-it-all, an increasing number of intrepid travellers are choosing to go off-grid for their vacation. Smartphone detox, optional.
If swapping your tech-filled, hectic schedule for the pared-back life in the great outdoors is on your agenda you might need to rethink your suitcase situation. We’ve picked out the staples you need to survive when access to electricity, hot water and high-tech is scarce.
These are the six minimalist pieces you need to get you geared up for going off-grid.
The major style rule for going off-grid is to keep your wardrobe simple and streamlined. One piece dressing will be your saviour for a) saving on packing space and b) not stressing about outfit choices. This Cocoa Cashmere Betty utility jumpsuit will work for hotter days with rolled up sleeves and sandals, or cooler nights with walking boots.
Find a designer boot that does it all, on any terrain and at any time of day. These shearling-trimmed Rag & Bone Compass hiking booties with a chunky low platform will go with everything from denim shorts to maxi dresses. Contrary to their ‘Compass’ name they won’t tell you where to go next, but they will make you look good on any adventure.
A swimsuit is a suitcase essential if you’re going off-grid – unless you’re heading to Antarctica. In a neutral colourway, this one from Solid & Striped can double as a swimsuit (for actual swimming), or bodysuit teamed with a pair of shorts. And just in case you want any more from your one piece, this snake print even acts as camouflage should you need it in the outback.
With your beauty haul down to the very bare essentials, pack a product like NIOD Survival 20 to protect your skin. If you’re in a sun-filled location, this small but mighty product is an advanced way to provide skin with UV protection and support your skin’s defences against oxygen radicals, pollution and smog. Just apply liberally to your face before sun exposure.
No electricity, no problem thanks to Uniqlo’s snug ultra-light down jacket. So compact it can fit into a large pocket (it has its own colour-coordinated pouch), this jacket is perfect for pulling out at night when temperatures drop. Wear it solo or use it as a layering piece – the collar can be worn crew-neck style or as a V-neck under your coat.
When blow-dries are a distant memory, pack a wonder hair product like Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) 5-in-1. Ticking off multiple uses in one step, the hardworking formulation is designed to help treat and style your tresses at the same time. This clever formula repels dirt and oil so hair stays cleaner and protected for longer, but it also detangles, smooths hair, and helps block frizz and humidity.
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