A handy (and humorous) list.
By Aiden Jewelle Gonzales and Ashima Sethi
The chances of going on a trip abroad this year are slim to none. Don’t expect winter in the Alps, you’re just going to have to settle for the annual four days of cold we get in December before jumping straight back into 40-degree temperatures. But don’t worry, if you’re planning to embrace domestic travel in the months to come, here’s a handy list of all the things you’ll need to brave unfamiliar terrain (or more realistically, what you’ll need for a stay in the many five-star hotels on offer).
Mask On!
No, simply ignoring COVID-19 isn’t going to make it go away. With things easing back to normal, it’s easy to forget that we are indeed in the middle of a global pandemic, so it’s best to keep your guard up…or mask up, in this case. Luckily, tons of fashion brands have introduced colourful, patterned, and even bedazzled masks so you can literally use them as full-fledged fashion accessories.
Beating the Bugs
If you’ve been bitten by the travel bug, you’re not the only one. However, avoid all the nastier disease-spreading bugs (tiger mosquitoes we’re looking at you) by packing lots, and lots, of repellent. And if you’re braving the great outdoors, pack long sleeve tops, and an ultra-stylish mosquito net to keep you safe while you snooze.
Right As Rain
While monsoon weather may be miserable, you don’t have to let it rain on your (fashionable) parade. Sure, 7-11 ponchos might look a little #chemistcouture, but you can still shine, rain or shine. From printed raincoats so you can show off your rain cheques without asking for rainchecks, to clear parasols so everyone can admire your (waterproof) makeup underneath, you’ll soon be channelling Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande and singing, “Rain on me”! Pro tip: an umbrella can also be handy if you want to avoid the sun, and the aunties that’ll undoubtedly comment on how kali you’ve become.
Do it for the ‘Gram
Giant beach towels, giant hats, and giant floaties…there’s definitely a common theme for the “pics or it didn’t happen” crowd among us. Make sure you ditch those boring, human-sized accessories for towels that look like humongous doughnuts and unicorn floaties whose pictures are worth half-drowning yourself in the sea. And hey, if a storm blows in, you and your friends can huddle under that giant hat which doubles as a yurt.
Matchy, Matchy
From the albums upon albums of photos we’ve seen over the years, it’s evident that we Indians loooove a matching family ensemble. From tie-dye outfits to t-shirts plastered with cartoon-style caricatures, themed outfits mean you’ll get great photos without having to fuss over your outfit.
