Underwear for Travel: How to Choose and How Many to Bring

Traveling light also means rethinking what you pack in your suitcase. Underwear takes up little space, but a poor choice can make a long transit day or a hike much less pleasant than it should be.

Material, cut, quick-drying, invisibility under clothes: these are the criteria that truly make a difference when choosing your underwear for a trip.

What to expect from underwear when traveling

Travel conditions are different from everyday life. You spend long hours sitting on planes or in cars, you walk much more than usual, you alternate between casual and dressier outfits depending on the occasion. And often, you travel with little luggage.

Good travel underwear must meet several needs at once: remain comfortable for long periods, dry quickly after hand washing, remain invisible under different types of clothing, and take up as little space as possible in the suitcase.

Material: the number one priority

Nylon and elastane: the go-to choice

For travel, the nylon and elastane blend is the most effective combination. Nylon is light, soft, and durable. Elastane provides the elasticity that allows the underwear to move with you without shifting.

This type of fabric also dries very quickly, a practical advantage when you wash your underwear at the hotel in the evening to wear it the next morning.

LICA Wear seamless panties are made of 63% nylon and 37% elastane, with a 100% cotton gusset for breathability in the crotch. This composition makes them particularly suitable for long days on the go.

Avoid pure cotton when traveling

Cotton absorbs moisture well, but it also retains it for a long time. Cotton underwear that is wet after a hot day or a short walk takes several hours to dry. For travel with few clothing changes, this is not ideal.

Cut: versatility and discretion

When traveling, you often wear varied clothing on the same day. Underwear that works under yoga leggings must also work under a dress for dinner.

Seamless panties are the most versatile in this context because they remain invisible under almost all clothing thanks to their laser-cut edges.

The seamless thong

The thong is the most minimalist and discreet cut. It also takes up the least space in the suitcase. It is often the preferred choice for travelers who want to minimize their luggage volume.

The seamless high-waisted thong

The high-waisted thong offers additional support for the lower abdomen, particularly appreciated during long days on your feet or on the move.

The seamless Brazilian cut

The Brazilian cut covers more of the buttocks while remaining discreet. It's a good compromise for those who want a little more coverage without wearing classic briefs.

The seamless bikini brief

The bikini brief is the most covering of the four styles. It is well suited for more casual days or loose-fitting clothing.

How many panties to bring when traveling

The number depends on the duration of the trip and the possibility of washing en route.

For a short trip of 3 to 5 days without access to a washing machine, 4 to 5 pairs of panties are sufficient if you hand wash them halfway through. For a longer trip with access to a machine, 5 to 7 pairs of panties will allow you to go a full week without thinking about it.

If you travel minimally with only a carry-on, 3 to 4 pairs of nylon-elastane panties are sufficient for a week, by hand washing them in the evening.

The travel kit: keeping your underwear organized

A dedicated underwear pouch keeps them separate from the rest of the suitcase, distinguishes clean from used, and makes them easy to find without emptying everything.

The LICA Wear Mini Weekender is handmade in Quebec from 100% satin. It includes two zippered compartments, allowing you to separate clean from used panties. Its dimensions are designed to fit easily into a carry-on or suitcase.

Caring for your underwear when traveling

Hand washing your underwear while traveling is simple with the right steps. Cold water, mild soap, thorough rinsing, and air drying are sufficient. Avoid wringing them too hard to avoid deforming the fabric.

To protect them in the machine if you have access to a laundry room, use a laundry bag. For all care tips, consult our complete guide on seamless underwear care.

FAQ

How many pairs of underwear should you bring for a week of travel? Between 5 and 7 pairs of underwear for a week without washing, or 3 to 4 if you plan to hand wash along the way. Nylon-elastane underwear dries quickly and takes up little space, making light travel easier.

What material should you choose for travel underwear? The nylon and elastane blend is the most suitable for travel: light, quick-drying, comfortable for long periods, and invisible under clothing. Pure cotton is less recommended for travel because it dries slowly.

Are seamless panties truly versatile for travel? Yes. Their laser-cut edges make them invisible under almost all clothing, from leggings to dressy dresses. One or two styles are enough to cover all occasions during a trip.