Sarong Uses for Travel

What is a Sarong?

A Sarong is a long flowing piece of fabric that is typically wrapped around the waist. It is soft, comfortable, and often features colorful patterns that add a touch of style to your travel wardrobe.

1. Sarongs Can Be Used as Sheets

Believe it or not, some places don’t supply sheets. In others, it’s better to have something between you and the sheets. By laying down two sarongs on the mattress, you create an instant sheet solution.

2. Use a Sarong to Cover Up at Temples

Be prepared to visit any temple regardless of your attire. Always carry a sarong with you for a quick cover-up. If you find yourself in shorts and spaghetti straps, a sarong can easily be fashioned as a shawl to cover your shoulders or wrapped around your waist for additional modesty. Its versatility is invaluable.

How to Tie a Sarong

• There is truly no wrong way to tie a sarong.
• You can wrap it, tie it in a knot, or wear it loose with just one fold.
• Don’t hesitate when wearing a sarong; experiment with different styles.

3. Wear a Sarong as a Headscarf

In countries where women are expected to have their heads covered, you don’t need to purchase a headscarf. Instead, utilize your sarong. If it is in a neutral color, it can successfully mimic a traditional headscarf, allowing you to respect local customs without incurring additional expense.

4. Use a Sarong After You Shower

When staying in accommodations with shared showers, walking to the bathroom fully clothed may feel uncomfortable. A sarong can serve not only as a towel but also as a makeshift robe, offering privacy and comfort.

5. Sunburn Protection – Sarong Dress

At times, sunburn can be so severe that wearing anything may be uncomfortable. Sarongs offer a soft, gentle option for clothing during recovery. By twisting it around your neck, you can fashion a halter top and wrap it around your waist as a skirt, while another can drape over your shoulders to keep you covered for temple visits.

6. Use them for Privacy

This use may be more common than you anticipate. If you find yourself in a public restroom with limited privacy, a friend or loved one can hold up a sarong to create a temporary shield. This technique was particularly helpful during our cycling trip in Africa, where places to pause for restroom breaks were scarce and privacy was a luxury.

7. Skirt

When selecting a sarong, opt for a design that features a neutral pattern or a solid color. By wrapping it around your body, you can transform it into a stylish skirt for an evening out, effortlessly elevating your travel style.

8. Shawl

Tropical nights can sometimes turn breezy, making sweaters unnecessary bulk. Many sarongs boast beautiful patterns that resemble designer silk scarves. Drape your sarong over your shoulders as a shawl to keep warm in the night air, or use it to cover bare shoulders at temples or when aiming for a more conservative look.

9. Towel

When traveling to warm destinations, you might question the necessity of lugging a bulky towel. Utilize a sarong instead; it dries quickly and serves effectively to dry off after a refreshing swim.

10. Sarongs at the Beach

Placing a few sarongs on the sand provides a cozy spot to relax at the beach. After use, a quick shake removes sand, making it a convenient wardrobe piece for your return to your accommodation.

Sarong Uses Wrap Up

As outlined, there are countless uses for this simple yet versatile piece of fabric. My commitment to bringing sarongs on every trip stems from their multifunctionality.

Sarongs are widely available at markets at budget-friendly prices, and my collection continues to grow with purchases made during my travels. I utilize them creatively and consistently discover new applications for my cherished sarongs.

Do you have additional uses for sarongs? I would love to hear your stories. How have you incorporated a sarong into your travels?