Got a trip planned to Maldives? Maldives 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 87°F (that's 31°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 Republic of Maldives has to offer without foot fatigue.
In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Maldives—whether you're going on a boat tour, swimming with dolphins, scuba diving, or sunbathing on the beach.
Editor's note: Maldives 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 Maldives?
Maldives is generally hot, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: maxi dresses, loose-fitting clothing, sneakers or loafers, long skirts, and sandals. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Maldives has to offer. Keep in mind that Maldives is culturally conservative, so it's important to dress modestly too.
Maxi dresses
A maxi dress is the perfect Maldives 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.
Here are a few of my top picks:
Loose-fitting clothing
When packing for Maldives, 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:
Sneakers or loafers
Sneakers or loafers are essential for visiting Maldives. 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.
Any of these should work:
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 Maldives. And don't forget, long skirts are often more comfortable than shorter styles, as they are not going to ride up or constrict movement.
If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:
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 Maldives. 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.
Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:
What should men wear in Maldives?
For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: loose-fitting clothing, lightweight pants, linen shirts, sandals, and lightweight comfortable shoes. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Maldives 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.
Loose-fitting clothing
When packing for Maldives, 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.
Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:
Lightweight pants
If you're planning a trip to Maldives that involves any sort of physical activity—hiking, climbing, biking, etc.—you'll want to pack a pair or two of lightweight pants. They're much more comfortable than jeans or khakis when you're sweating, and they'll dry much faster if you get caught in a rain shower. You can also roll them up and stuff them into your backpack or suitcase without taking up too much space.
If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:
Linen shirts
Packing for Maldives can be a daunting task, but there are a few items that are essential for any trip. One of those items is a linen shirt. Linen is a light and airy fabric that is perfect for a variety of weather conditions. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing linen shirts for travel. First, consider the color. Linen tends to absorb sweat and can become stained quickly. Light colors will help to keep you cool, while dark colors mask any stains better. Also, choose a shirt with a loose fit. Linen shirts are not meant to be skin tight!
Need some inspiration? Start here:
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 Maldives. 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:
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 Maldives? 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.
Why not grab yourself something new before you go:
FAQs
When is the best time to go to Maldives?
The best time to go to Maldives is during the country's dry season, which runs from roughly April to September. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny, making it ideal for exploring everything Maldives 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 Maldives?
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 Maldives?
Maldives 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 Maldives 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 Maldives 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 Maldives has to offer!