Natural fibers or cotton blends : Planning Your Trip

Natural fibers or cotton blends beat synthetics hands down in the heat. Be sure to take clothes that can be washed in a sink. While dark-colored clothes will hide dirt better, light ones are more comfortable in hot weather. Better yet. do as the locals have done for centuries-wear long, pale, gauzy shirts or skirts. You can buy such items once there; light cotton clothing is available everywhere. Skip clothes like cut-offs and tank tops (and of course tube tops) that may be culturally offensive and will brand you as the typical out-of-towner. In Egypt, Jordan, the West Bank, and any holy site, both men and women should keep their knees and shoulders covered to avoid offending local rules of modesty. (See Travel Etiquette below.) When packing, remember that in some places the temperature drops considerably at night.

Appropriate footwear is crucial: tennis or well-cushioned running shoes for walking, suitable boots (say, leather-reinforced nylon) for extensive hiking (break them in before you go). Talcum powder in your shoes and on your feet can prevent sores, and moleskin is great for blisters. Israel’s popular leather sandals (sandalini) are good for short walks or evening idling, but they will hurt unaccustomed feet. Flip-flops will protect you somewhat against fungal floors.

Laundromats are often hard to find, so bring along a supply of mild laundry soap. Dr. Bronner’s castile soap (available in camping stores) claims to serve as everything from dish detergent to shampoo to toothpaste. Carry extra toiletries, especially razors, aspirin, and tampons, for those out-of-the-way places. A squash ball makes an excellent sink plug for washing clothes or preventing your contacts from washing away. Lens-wearers, consider carefully your solution resources.