Got a trip planned to Johor Bahru, Malaysia? Johor Bahru 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 Johor Bahru has to offer without foot fatigue.
In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Johor Bahru—whether you're visiting the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, taking a walk through Danga Bay, checking out the Johor Premium Outlets, or going on a jungle safari at the Endau-Rompin National Park.
Editor's note: Johor Bahru 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 Johor Bahru?
Johor Bahru is generally hot, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: long-sleeved shirts, loose-fitting clothing, comfortable flats or loafers, cropped pants, and maxi dresses. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Johor Bahru has to offer. Keep in mind that Johor Bahru is culturally conservative, so it's important to dress modestly too.
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 Johor Bahru, 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 grab yourself something new before you go:
Loose-fitting clothing
When packing for Johor Bahru, 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.
Here's a few ideas to get you started:
Comfortable flats or loafers
Packing the right shoes for Johor Bahru 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.
This is the kind of thing I mean:
Cropped pants
Cropped pants might not be the first thing you would think to pack on a trip to Johor Bahru. But they can actually be extremely versatile and practical. For example, if you're going hiking, cropped pants will allow you to move freely while giving you more coverage than shorts. They will also keep you cool and comfortable. And of course, cropped pants can be dressed up or down as needed. Just make sure to choose a pair that is made from breathable fabric and that has a comfortable fit.
Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:
Maxi dresses
A maxi dress is the perfect Johor Bahru staple. It's comfortable, flattering, and can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. Whether you're exploring or just relaxing, a maxi dress will keep you cool and stylish all day long. It's also a great way to cover up for modesty if you need to (simply add a long-sleeved cardigan over the top). And packing a maxi dress is a breeze—simply roll it up and tuck it into your suitcase. When choosing a maxi dress, look for one made from lightweight fabric such as linen or cotton. Avoid bold prints and opt for simple colors that can be easily accessorized.
Need some inspiration? Start here:
What should men wear in Johor Bahru?
For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: long-sleeved shirts, sandals, lightweight comfortable shoes, linen trousers, and loose-fitting clothing. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Johor Bahru 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.
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 Johor Bahru, 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.
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 Johor Bahru. 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.
Any of these should work:
Lightweight comfortable shoes
Traveling can be tough on your feet. You're constantly on the move, walking through airports and down crowded streets. And even if you're just sitting on a plane or in a car, your feet can start to swell after hours of being confined in one position. That's why it's important to pack comfortable, lightweight shoes that won't add too much weight to your luggage. But how do you know which shoes are right for Johor Bahru? Look for ones made from breathable materials like mesh or canvas. They should also have good arch support and a cushioned sole to help reduce fatigue.
I found these which would all work great:
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 Johor Bahru (and taking all those vacation photos).
Any of these should work:
Loose-fitting clothing
When packing for Johor Bahru, 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.
Here are some options I'd recommend:
FAQs
When is the best time to go to Johor Bahru, Malaysia?
The best time to go to Johor Bahru 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 Johor Bahru 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 Johor Bahru, Malaysia?
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 Johor Bahru, Malaysia?
Johor Bahru 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 Malaysia 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 Johor Bahru 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 Johor Bahru has to offer!