One of the great things about being a Kiwi is our relaxed approach to life. At home, there aren’t many occasions when shorts, a T-shirt and jandals won’t do the job. Overseas, however, you may find what feels perfectly ordinary to us isn’t quite so appropriate elsewhere.
This is particularly worth remembering when visiting religious buildings, historic sites, memorials and other places of cultural significance. Some have formal dress codes, while others simply expect visitors to dress modestly and respectfully. A little preparation can save you from an awkward moment at the entrance – or having to turn around and go back to your hotel.
Do a little homework
Before you travel, check the official website of any significant attractions you plan to visit. Dress requirements can vary considerably, even between places in the same country, and rules can change.
Your travel agent or tour operator can also advise you about local customs, particularly if you’re visiting somewhere where the culture and expectations are very different from those at home.
Don’t assume that because somewhere is hot, shorts and sleeveless tops will be appropriate everywhere. Local expectations can be quite different from ours, particularly away from beach resorts and tourist areas.
Pack a versatile outfit
You don’t need to fill your suitcase with formal clothes. A few adaptable pieces can cover most eventualities. A lightweight pair of long trousers or a longer skirt, a top covering the shoulders, and comfortable shoes can be useful additions to your luggage. A scarf or pashmina takes up very little room and can provide an extra layer when visiting a religious site or somewhere with a more conservative dress code.
It’s also worth choosing comfortable, practical footwear. Some attractions involve uneven ground, long walks or plenty of steps, while others may require you to remove your shoes before entering. A small foldable bag can be handy for carrying footwear when necessary.
Religious and sacred sites
Places of worship are where you’re most likely to encounter specific expectations around clothing. Some mosques require visitors to cover their arms and legs, and women may need to cover their hair. Certain sites provide robes or other coverings for visitors, while others expect you to arrive suitably dressed.
Churches and cathedrals can have modest dress requirements, particularly in countries where religious traditions remain strong. A sleeveless top or very short shorts might be perfectly acceptable for sightseeing elsewhere but inappropriate inside a place of worship. The same principle applies in temples, shrines and other sacred places. Don’t rely on assumptions – check before you visit.
A few destinations to keep in mind
India: Dress codes vary considerably, but modest clothing is generally a good choice when visiting religious and cultural sites. Covering shoulders and knees is often appropriate, and some places require shoes to be removed.
The Middle East: Expectations are different between countries and locations, but conservative clothing is often the safest option, particularly away from resorts. In some mosques and other religious sites, there are specific requirements for both men and women.
Southeast Asia: Temples and religious sites may require covered shoulders and knees, and shoes are often removed before entering. Carrying a lightweight cover-up can make sightseeing easier.
The Vatican: St Peter’s Basilica and other religious sites have dress requirements, so visitors should avoid clothes leaving shoulders or knees uncovered.
These are only general guidelines. Always check the current requirements for the particular attraction you’re visiting.
It’s not just about religious sites
Dress codes can turn up in unexpected places. Upscale restaurants, theatres, casinos, clubs and some hotels may have minimum standards of dress. A cruise ship might be very relaxed during the day but expect something smarter in the evening.
It’s worth remembering local customs can extend beyond clothing. You may be expected to remove your shoes, cover your head, avoid certain gestures or follow restrictions on photography. In some places, what is considered ordinary behaviour at home may be inappropriate or even offensive.
None of this means you need to pack a separate wardrobe for every country. It simply pays to know what you’re likely to encounter.
When in doubt, be respectful
You don’t have to dress like a local to show respect for local customs. Nor should you feel self-conscious about being a visitor. The aim is simply to understand the expectations and make a reasonable effort to follow them.
A little planning can make travelling more comfortable. Loose-fitting, breathable clothing can be much more pleasant in a hot climate, while having something suitable for cooler evenings or air-conditioned buildings can save you from shivering through dinner.
Most importantly, don’t let unfamiliar dress codes put you off exploring. Knowing what to expect before you arrive means you can spend less time worrying about what you’re wearing and more time enjoying where you are.