What Men's Clothes to Pack for a Trip Down South?

Many Quebecers love to escape to the South during winter—and for good reason! There are plenty of excuses to treat yourself to a sunny getaway: escaping the cold, unwinding after a busy year, enjoying time with family or friends, renewing wedding vows, or simply rewarding yourself!

Among the top destinations for Canadians are Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba, offering vacations to suit all tastes and budgets.

Are you planning a leisure or business trip to the South this winter, or are you a proud snowbird? You'll need the proper clothing to look your best—from the hotel to the restaurant, the beach, and even the golf course. Follow this guide prepared by our men's fashion experts!

Principles for Dressing in a Hot Country

Your clothing for the South should meet some essential criteria. Here are a few key principles for creating the perfect travel wardrobe:

- Opt for Light Colors
Choose light shades like white, beige, or pastel tones, which reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. Dark colors, on the other hand, absorb the sun’s rays, making clothes feel warmer. However, you can bring a few darker pieces for the evening or indoor activities with air conditioning!

- Choose Breathable Fabrics
Natural materials such as linen, cotton, or bamboo allow your skin to breathe and help prevent discomfort caused by sweating. Avoid synthetic fabrics, as they trap moisture and increase the sensation of heat.

- Go for Loose-Fitting Clothes
Tight or form-fitting clothing can be particularly uncomfortable in extreme heat. Instead, opt for loose and flowy cuts, which promote airflow and reduce the risk of skin irritation, especially under the arms or between the thighs.

- Prepare for Changing Weather Conditions
In hot countries, days can be “enhanced” by sudden downpours! Be sure to pack a poncho or a lightweight waterproof jacket. If the sun is intense and shade is scarce, a long-sleeved fabric shirt will protect you from the harsh rays.

- Bring Essential Accessories
A head covering, such as a hat or a cap, is essential—especially if you plan to spend long hours outdoors. Ideally, sunglasses with UV protection and polarized lenses will help shield your eyes from the sun.

Enjoying the Hotel Buffet with Style

Many “all-inclusive” vacation packages in the South offer buffet-style meals, especially for breakfast and lunch. Wondering how to dress while filling your plate with delicious treats in style? Go for an outfit that is both elegant and comfortable! A winning combination is a high-quality short-sleeved shirt paired with full-length trousers, capri pants, or well-fitted shorts—preferably in neutral tones.

Remember that the later the meal takes place, the more attention you should pay to your outfit. Your attire can be more straightforward in the morning and more refined for dinner.

Looking Your Best at the Beach or Pool

Whether strolling along the beach or relaxing by the pool in good company, a well-fitted and comfortable swimsuit is necessary! Explore our men’s swimwear collections, where you'll find both solid-colored and patterned styles to suit all tastes. For tropical destinations, foliage prints are always a great choice. And if you want to turn heads, pair your swimsuit with a matching shirt for a coordinated look!

Pro tip: Bring at least two swimsuits for your sunny getaway. This way, you'll always have a dry one ready and can switch up your style.

Dressing for a Romantic Evening

Suppose you're traveling to the South with your special someone. In that case, you’ll likely want to dedicate an evening to a romantic activity—dining at a chic restaurant, taking a moonlit walk on the beach, or even enjoying a dance night filled with intimate moments! To ensure your loved one only has eyes for you, wear an outfit that enhances your complexion and silhouette. A short-sleeved shirt with subtle patterns and well-fitted chinos is a perfect choice!

Psst! If you're traveling as a couple and your trip coincides with Valentine’s Day, it’s the perfect opportunity to surprise your partner with a thoughtful gift. Here are five trendy gift ideas (that won’t take up too much space in your suitcase!)—perfect for celebrating love:

1- A Prestige gift box to strengthen your bond (the "Plaisir pour deux" box is wonderfully romantic!);

2- A piece of jewelry to symbolize your love (the Quebec-based brand Mes Bijoux de Famille offers stunning couple’s jewelry for both him and her);

3- A gift certificate for a couple’s tattoo session (check out our article on the best tattoo artists in Quebec and Canada for inspiration);

4– A gift certificate for a professional couple’s photoshoot (visit photographer Esther Gibbons’ website to discover her modern and original pose ideas);

5- An Ernest gift card to choose the perfect clothing item or accessory to elevate their style.

Dressing for a Business Event Evening

Are you traveling south for work and have an evening event where you want to make a great impression? Create a chic and professional outfit with a solid-colored suit or a light sports blazer paired with well-fitted dark trousers for a more contemporary style. Complete the look with a stylish dress shirt and fashionable shoes. Get ready to land contracts and new business opportunities!

Dressing for a Round of Golf

Sunny destinations often feature stunning golf courses. Do you have a game (or several!) planned? To ensure you have the proper attire, it’s recommended to wear a short-sleeved polo shirt with chino pants or neat, appropriately long Bermuda shorts. For all the details, check out our article explaining how to dress for golf!

Exploring the Surroundings

Want to leave the hotel and explore the area? Be sure to choose a casual outfit that you can adjust as needed. Layering is a wise choice to handle unexpected weather changes, even in warm countries. You might opt for stylish Bermuda shorts or chinos with a T-shirt and an open-front short-sleeved shirt, such as clean sports shoes and a cap. Get ready for discoveries!

Now, you have all the information you need to build your vacation wardrobe! If you need advice on packing for a trip down south, don’t hesitate to consult our team of men’s fashion experts. At Ernest Boutique, we have everything you need to dress in style for your sunny getaway. Find the perfect clothing for your next trip to the South today!