Got a trip planned to Brunei? Brunei can be fun to visit any time of year, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is hot and very humid year-round, with temperatures averaging around 89°F (that's 32°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?
To stay cool in the heat, it's important to wear light and airy clothing. Cotton, linen, and technical fabrics are all good choices. And don't forget to pack a pair of sandals or lightweight sneakers. With a comfortable pair of shoes, you'll be able to explore everything Brunei Darussalam has to offer without foot fatigue.
In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Brunei—whether you're visiting the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, touring the Kampong Ayer Water Village, taking a river cruise on the Brunei River, or visiting the Ulu Temburong National Park.
Editor's note: Brunei is in the tropics, which means seasons like summer, winter, spring, and fall don't apply. Most tropical destinations do have a wet and a dry season, but temperatures are typically warm year round.
What should women wear in Brunei?
Brunei is generally hot, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: linen trousers, comfortable flats or loafers, pashmina, sandals, and long skirts. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Brunei has to offer. Keep in mind that Brunei is culturally conservative, so it's important to dress modestly too.
Linen trousers
Linen trousers might just be the perfect staple for a warm-weather vacation. You already know they are made from a light, breathable fabric. Plus, they can be paired with a variety of tops to create both casual and dressy looks. When choosing linen trousers, it's important to look for a pair that fits well and complements your overall look. This will help you feel your best when exploring Brunei (and taking all those vacation photos).
Here are a few of my top picks:
Comfortable flats or loafers
Packing the right shoes for Brunei can make the difference between a comfortable trip and a difficult one. While there are many factors to consider when packing your shoes, comfort is always the most important. Flats or loafers are a great option for travel, as they can be easily slipped on and off at security checkpoints and are generally super comfortable to walk in.
Here's a few ideas to get you started:
Pashmina
A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to Brunei. They can be used as a scarf, sarong, blanket, or even a headscarf. They are light and easy to pack, yet they provide warmth and color to any outfit. Pashminas come in a variety of colors and patterns, so it's easy to find one that compliments your personal style. When choosing a pashmina, look for one that is made from natural fibers such as wool or cashmere. These fibers are not only more durable, but they will also breathe better and keep you covered without making you sweat.
Any of these should work:
Sandals
While many people think of sandals as nothing more than summertime shoes, they can actually be a versatile and practical option for year-round travel to warmer destinations. For one thing, they're comfortable and easy to wear, which is ideal for exploring Brunei. They also offer good ventilation, which is important in hot weather. Just bear in mind that sandals should provide good support for your feet and ankles, which you need to help to prevent injuries.
Need some inspiration? Start here:
Long skirts
Many women pack skirts as a staple for their travel wardrobe, but often overlook the long skirt. Though less popular than their shorter counterparts, long skirts offer a number of advantages that make them ideal for travel. For one, they tend to be more versatile than short skirts, as they can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. They also offer more coverage, which can be important in hot weather or when exploring more conservative cultures like Brunei. And don't forget, long skirts are often more comfortable than shorter styles, as they are not going to ride up or constrict movement.
Here are some of my favorites:
What should men wear in Brunei?
For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: sandals, long-sleeved shirts, sneakers or loafers, linen trousers, and loose-fitting clothing. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Brunei in comfort and style. While you won't need to be quite so covered as the ladies, it's still a good idea to respect cultural norms and not wear anything that would draw too much attention.
Sandals
While many people think of sandals as nothing more than summertime shoes, they can actually be a versatile and practical option for year-round travel to warmer destinations. For one thing, they're comfortable and easy to wear, which is ideal for exploring Brunei. They also offer good ventilation, which is important in hot weather. Just bear in mind that sandals should provide good support for your feet and ankles, which you need to help to prevent injuries.
These would be perfect:
Long-sleeved shirts
Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Brunei, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.
Why not treat yourself before you go:
Sneakers or loafers
Sneakers or loafers are essential for visiting Brunei. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to pack. And, when you're on your feet all day, they can help prevent aches and pains. But how do you know which sneakers or loafers to pack? If you'll be doing a lot of walking, opt for a sneaker with good arch support and cushioning. And don't forget style! Sneakers and loafers come in countless colors and designs, so pick something that goes with the rest of your outfits.
Here are some of my favorites:
Linen trousers
Linen trousers might just be the perfect staple for a warm-weather vacation. You already know they are made from a light, breathable fabric. Plus, they can be paired with a variety of tops to create both casual and dressy looks. When choosing linen trousers, it's important to look for a pair that fits well and complements your overall look. This will help you feel your best when exploring Brunei (and taking all those vacation photos).
Here are a few of my top picks:
Loose-fitting clothing
When packing for Brunei, it's important to choose clothing that will keep you cool and comfortable. Loose-fitting clothes are ideal, as they allow air to circulate around your body and help to regulate your temperature. Look for lightweight fabrics such as cotton or linen, which will help you to stay cool even in the hottest weather. When choosing colors, stick to light shades which will reflect rather than absorb heat. And don't forget to pack a few items that can be mixed and matched to create different looks. With a little planning, you can ensure that you'll be comfortable and stylish no matter what the weather is like on your trip.
If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:
FAQs
When is the best time to go to Brunei?
The best time to go to Brunei is during the country's dry season, which runs from roughly October to March. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny, making it ideal for exploring everything Brunei has to offer. That said, you can often avoid the crowds and find a great bargain on hotels and airfares outside of the peak season—the only real downside is getting caught in the occasional monsoon downpour.
How do people typically dress in Brunei?
People typically dress in loose, flowing clothing. This helps to keep them cool and comfortable in the heat. Many women wear hijabs and abayas in order to conform to religious or cultural norms. Men often wear long robes called thobes. These provide protection from the sun and help to keep the body cool. Sandals or other open-toed shoes are also common, as they allow air to circulate around the feet. In general, people dress in a way that is both respectful of their culture and helps them to stay cool in the heat.
What should you NOT wear in Brunei?
Brunei is culturally conservative, so you'll want to dress modestly to stay respectful. This generally means you should avoid wearing anything too revealing, at least outside of tourist resorts. And as Brunei is a majority Muslim country, women should be prepared to cover their heads when necessary. As a general rule, take your cue from the locals: if people around you are mostly covered, you should cover up too.
I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Brunei will help make your visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Brunei has to offer!