Updated 2026
A sarong is one of the most versatile pieces of clothing for RTW travel. It's lightweight, inexpensive, and genuinely useful for multiple purposes.
What is a Sarong?
A sarong is a piece of fabric wrapped around the body - common in Southeast Asia and South Asia.
They're usually cotton or lightweight material. Colors and patterns vary widely.
Why Buy One
Sarongs are genuinely useful for RTW travel.
Worn as clothing: respects cultural norms in religious areas. Shows respect when visiting temples and mosques.
Used as a towel: larger than standard towels, easier to dry off quickly.
Used as a beach cover-up: instead of carrying multiple items, wrap the sarong.
Used as a makeshift backpack: wrap it around items for carrying. Ingenious in emergency situations.
Used as a temporary room divider: in shared hostels, hang a sarong to create privacy.
Used as a sleeping bag alternative: in warm climates, wrap it for sleeping without full sleeping bag weight.
Why They Work
Multiple uses mean multiple items you don't need to carry.
Lightweight and compact when not in use.
Cultural appropriateness shows respect.
Cheap: Often $3-8 when purchased in Southeast Asia. Inexpensive even at premium prices.
Where to Buy
Buy sarongs in Southeast Asia or South Asia where you're traveling. Prices are lowest there.
Buying them abroad before traveling costs more.
Markets in Bangkok, Bali, Vietnam - sarongs are everywhere.
Choosing One
Color and pattern don't matter functionally. Choose something you don't mind wearing.
Cotton is most practical. Avoid overly sheer fabrics.
One sarong is sufficient. You could carry two if you wanted multiple colors.
The Practical Reality
A sarong genuinely earns its pack space through utility.
It replaces multiple items - towel, beach cover-up, clothing for temple visits.
It's one of the few items that gets actual use throughout your RTW trip.