A great road trip isn’t just about the destination—it’s about feeling good mile after mile. If you’re wondering what to wear on a road trip, the answer lies in striking the perfect balance between comfort, practicality, and style. Whether you're coasting through coastal towns or chasing sunsets in the desert, your outfit can make all the difference in how you experience the journey.
Key Considerations When Choosing What to Wear on a Road Trip
Nearly 80% of people are planning to road trip this summer, and when you think about the perks and possibilities, it’s easy to see why. There’s something alluring about cruising down the open road, snapping photos at Instagrammable pit stops and taking in the scenery as you head toward a dream destination.
If you’re planning a road trip, you probably have the route all mapped out, your playlist queued up and days' worth of snacks prepared. But do you know what you’ll wear for the hours-long drive? Believe it or not, knowing what to wear on a road trip has a huge impact on your journey.
Here’s what actually matters for your long stretches behind the wheel:
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Comfort – Even the most scenic routes can quickly lose their charm if you’re constantly shifting and adjusting restrictive clothing. Instead, choose soft, forgiving fabrics that let you move around easily.
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Layers – Car temperatures can be wildly unpredictable. One minute, you're basking in golden sunlight streaming through your open window; the next, you’re reaching for the hoodie as the AC kicks into full blast. You can win this constant battle between hot and cold by bringing an extra layer to easily throw on or take off.
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Practicality – Your favorite romper might seem like a great idea when you’re headed out the door. After all, one-piece clothing is undeniably comfortable… until you have to take it off at the first gas station pit stop. Ultimately, you want to choose pieces that work with you, not against you, during your road trip.
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Style – Just because you’re road-tripping doesn’t mean you have to look like you’ve been living in your car. With the right fit, you’ll arrive at your destination feeling comfortable and looking effortlessly chic.
Essentials for the Perfect Road Trip Outfit
To build the ultimate road trip wardrobe, keep the above guidelines in mind and consider the following must-pack pieces.
Loungewear sets
A matching travel loungewear set is a cheat code to looking put together without even trying. You can even mix and match pieces from full sets to create multiple looks while saving on luggage space.
Softies Loungewear can make any car ride (or airport lounge) feel like a first-class experience. That’s because our cloud-soft fabric cradles you in comfort, ensuring a feeling of luxury even hours into your drive.
Shop Softies PureDream 1/4 Zip Jogger Set
Breathable Tops
Cotton tees are a staple for any travel wardrobe. They’re soft, breathable and easy to incorporate into any look. Choose a few neutral colors to serve as the base layer for your outfits.
Layering Options
Cardigans and hoodies are the perfect road trip companions, as they’re easy to toss on when it starts to get a bit chilly. Softies cardigans, in particular, are lightweight enough to layer without bulk yet cozy enough to provide warmth when temperatures dip.
Plus, no matter how many miles you’ve covered, the buttery-soft fabric will envelop you in comfort while ensuring you still look stylish when you step out of the car.
Shop Softies Solid Marshmallow Crop Cardigan
Footwear
When it comes to road trip footwear, slip-on shoes are non-negotiable. Choose styles you can easily kick off to stretch your toes during your ride. Comfortable sneakers paired with slides will also give you options without taking up too much space.
Accessories
The right accessories can offer additional comfort and make a basic road trip outfit look like it just came off the runway. Our favorite essentials include:
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Sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays and glare
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A wide-brimmed hat to shield your face during outdoor exploration
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A crossbody bag to keep your phone, wallet and other essentials accessible without digging through your luggage
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Compression socks to boost circulation during long hours of sitting
Road Trip Outfit Ideas by Trip Type
Ready to start planning your road trip looks? Let these outfit formulas guide your packing, no matter where the road takes you.
Desert or Southwest Adventure
Red rocks and endless skies make for a classic American road trip scene. But this idyllic route also requires serious sun protection. Start with a brimmed hat and don’t forget the SPF. For clothes, pack linen or lightweight loungewear that will keep the heat at bay without sticking to your skin.
Mountain or Nature Escapes
You’ll want a more adaptable outfit to accompany you through winding mountain roads. Soft leggings and smooth fabrics are ideal, especially for impromptu hikes. Add a heavy hoodie or fleece to handle temperature drops at higher elevations.
You should also bring a pair of sturdy hiking boots or reliable sneakers to handle unsteady mountain trails.
Coastal or Beach Drive
You never know when you’ll find a hidden beach path or forgotten cove along the coastline. Stay prepared for a spontaneous swim by wearing a swimsuit under a flowing sundress and sandals that easily slide on and off. A classic straw hat, oversized sunglasses and handheld sunscreen are also worthy accessories for a coastal drive.
City-to-City Touring
Urban adventures call for casual yet sophisticated looks that transition easily from hole-in-the-wall diners to chic rooftop bars. Our advice? Pack wide-leg pants, sneakers and a comfy yet cute cardigan.
Road Trip Outfit Ideas by Season
The time of the year can also impact what to wear on a road trip. Here’s how to stay comfortable and stylish depending on the season.
Summer
Beat the heat with moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you feeling fresh. Sports dresses are also effortlessly simple and offer maximum comfort.
If you prefer wearing separates, matching two-piece lounge sets are in vogue.
Fall
Autumn road trips call for soft knits that provide warmth without too much weight. A shawl and ankle boots also make a dreamy combo for photo ops against a color-changing backdrop.
From warm cardigans to matching sets, Softies’ best sellers ensure endless comfort for your autumn road trip.
Winter
Whether you’re getting in a car or embarking on a long flight, cold-weather travel requires strategic layering. Start with thermal undergarments as your base, then a puffer vest to provide core warmth without restricting arm movement. A cozy scarf can be a welcome addition when you step away from your car’s heater.
Spring
Spring road trips offer a renewed landscape with budding greenery and stunning wildflower displays, but temperatures can be unpredictable. The solution? Pack breathable knits that cut against the morning chill and keep you cool during warm afternoons.
Water-resistant footwear will also help you weather dewy grass and sudden April showers.
Packing Tips for Road Trip Outfits
Finally, maximize valuable car space while minimizing wardrobe clutter with our top road trip packing strategies:
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Choose mix-and-match pieces to save space and make getting dressed a foolproof endeavor (think of it as your travel “capsule” wardrobe).
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Bring wrinkle-resistant fabrics that come out of your suitcase ready for any adventure.
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Keep an emergency outfit within reach to protect against accidents, like coffee spills.
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Store your extra layer where you can easily grab it.
Softies for the Ultimate Road Trip Comfort
Wherever your road trip takes you, a well-planned outfit ensures you arrive refreshed, stylish, and ready to explore. With comfort-first fashion and a few smart accessories, every mile becomes part of the adventure.
For road trip essentials that blend softness with style, explore the Softies travel loungewear collection and elevate every journey.
