I recently spent a week on a charity trek in Jordan. The scenery took my breath away. Think undulating rugged hills as far as the eye can see, rock formations that seem to defy physics and huge, almost cuboid, boulders stamping their mark on the skyline.
Packing for a trip like this is not something you want to get wrong. The temperature can swing dramatically so layers are essential. Pack too little and you risk being uncomfortably cold at night and sweltering in the day. Pack too much and your day sack will weigh you down for the whole of the trek making an already arduous walk even more challenging.
Let me tell you what high fashion should look like in the desert: flowing fabrics and billowing scarves, oversized Dior sunglasses and visor or headscarf that keeps you cool and elegant all at once. What it does not look like is a week of sleeping under stars with only nature’s bathroom and a jug of cold water masquerading as a shower. In those conditions, functionality wins and it’s all about high performance fabrics and sheltering your skin from the relentless UV rays.
Petra itself was as awe inspiring as you’d expect it to be. It’s a breathtaking blend of ancient history and remarkable engineering. Carved directly into vibrant rose-red cliffs, this ancient Nabatean city, dating back to around the 6th century BCE, lay hidden for centuries, only being rediscovered in 1812 which adds to it’s mystery.
As you walk up 800 ancient steps you pass small stalls selling silver wear and pashminas as well as more modern souvenirs. I couldn’t help but smile at the women calling ‘women support women’ from their stalls. Seems female empowerment and sisterhood knows no geographic bounds!
So whether you’re hiking across Jordan or arriving at one of the seven wonders of the world in style here’s my travel list, edited especially for you.
Feels luxury without taking up extra room. Reapply like it’s a new religion.
The desert steals moisture and gives you character. Keep the moisture. I prefer Claris’s.
Water
More than you think. Then double it. Then one more bottle.
Fendi sunglasses
Because you can’t lose yourself completely and they’re towards the sporty spectrum as far as sunglasses go.
Pashmina
The MVP: sun shade, dust veil, shoulder cover for sacred sites and surprisingly cooling worn as a head scarf.
Voluminous Kaftans
Allows maximum airflow and keeps you cooler than fitted clothing. Covers you up without feeling heavy and still manages to look stylish and impactful against the pink sandstone backdrop.
Flats with grip
Make no mistake, your shoes are not going to survive the dust unscathed. Go for a lightweight and comfortable option.
Simple, elevated and with enough room for the essentials. Trust me, you’re going to want to have your hands free on your way up and down all those steps.
Final Word (and a Big Thank You)
Petra is a masterclass in contrasts. I went in support of a cause that I believe in but the place captivated me and I left all the richer for it. To everyone who supported us in raising over £50,000 Girls Out Loud: you helped turn a trek into a lifeline for young women. That is the real look.
If you’re heading to Petra soon, pack light, pack smart, and pack your sense of humour. The desert rewards all three.
And feel free to ask me any questions.
Victoria x
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