EveryWoman's most critical wardrobe element, and the most versatile, is a travel essential, too. The ubiquitous Trench Coat! Go-with-everything beige or khaki; go-everywhere from Hong Kong to St. Petersburg. With a detachable hood and zip-in wool or cashmere lining, it will take you everywhere except the hottest and humidest tropical downpours or the chilliest Arctic snowstorms.
New raincoats in microfiber and other fabrics promise easy packing. Most are too short to keep you from a real drenching, and are only suitable for gentle Spring or early Autumn weather.
Mine seemed a bit bulky, and I nearly left my Burberry's behind in Hong Kong. Glad I didn't! On chilly airplanes, it served as as a lap-robe or blanket. On the Trans-Siberian Railroad, it made an extra toasty blanket at night. It protected my suit en route to business meetings, no sloppy hemlines from getting splashed by errant puddles and drivers who always seem to shlosh through the muddiest as you await the walk-light.
The detachable hood often ended up padding items in my duffle over the summer months in China, but I needed it badly even before I reached St. Petersburg - already facing the chill of impending winter in September. That zip-in lining over a sweater or other layerings is urgently needed when the thermometer drops.
Wear it on the plane, use it for a travel blanket. Wrap the liner and hood around whatever needs a bit of padding in the suitcase until you need it. The belt can be a useful strap for whatever. Above all, it keeps you warm and dry in all but blizzards or the steamiest tropical downpours.
Take it, pack it, but be sure to bring it along!
May your road rise to meet you,
Ann
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