What Belts Should You Take with You on a Trip

Few accessories are more important to a man’s outfit than a belt. Belts are crucial for keeping your pants up, but they can also make a statement. They can make your outfit more dressed up, more casual or blend right in with your pants. It all depends on how you’d like to look. 

When packing for a trip, you might know that you need to take a belt or two along, but you just might not know which ones would be best. With the price of checked luggage on most airlines too, you’re probably trying to pack more lightly. So, we’ve put together a brief guide of what types of belts you should take with you on a trip and why. So, let’s jump right in.

Types of Belts

The first thing to think about is all of the different types of belts. Think about the materials each one is made from, the types of buckles they have and the occasions on which you wear them. Here are all of the different belt material types:

  • Leather
  • Faux Leather
  • Canvas
  • Nylon
  • Webbed
  • Rope Belts
  • Novelty and Specialty Belts

Each fabric has its pros and cons, but once you find a favorite or two, you’ll probably be hooked for life. Also, if you’re curious about the different kinds of buckles, they include:

  • D-Ring Buckles
  • O-Ring Buckles
  • Frame Buckles (the traditional ones with prongs and holes in the belt)
  • Knotless Buckles
  • Velcro
  • Snaps
  • Plate (like the cowboys wear)
  • Novelty Buckles

We’ll be focusing more on the fabric types in this piece, but if you want to learn more about the different belt materials and buckles, read our Ultimate Guide to Belts. So, where should you be wearing these belts? That’s a great question.

Business Trip Belt

If you’re going on a business trip, you probably want to dress a bit more formally. Even if your company has a more casual dress code, you’ll probably still want to maintain a somewhat polished appearance. In this case, you’ll want to opt for a leather belt in a neutral color. Leather belts come in a variety of colors, but most commonly you’ll find them in black and brown. They go great with slacks and should match your shoes for a polished look.

This is the classic belt for business. If you decide to go out in a more casual setting during your trip, you can still sport a leather belt with jeans or even in some cases shorts. So, you’ll save room in your luggage and can get away with just one belt, if you need to.

Cruise Belts

If you’re headed on a cruise, you’re probably going to be trying to get in some relaxation time. This isn’t the time for business and formal dressing, unless there is a black tie event while you’re on board. If you are planning on attending an event like this, make sure to bring a leather belt. However, you can probably get away with a nylon or canvas belt on a cruise. These both pair wonderfully with jeans as well as shorts. Also, if you bring a belt in a neutral color, you might even be able to get away with wearing it to a more formal event, if needed. 

Camping Belts

If you’re headed on a camping trip, you won’t want to be taking your nicest or most formal belt. Your best bet is to wear a belt that’s both practical and won’t be harmed while being outdoors. So, we’d suggest a Lizard Tail rope belt. These belts are made from a sturdy rope and come in many colors and patterns. They also utilize knotless technology and are easy to adjust if needed. They’re also very sturdy, so they won’t get damaged easily while spending time in the great outdoors. So you can just enjoy your time and not worry about your belt getting broken.

Theme Park Belts

If you’re headed to a theme park, you’ll have your choice of belts. You can wear almost any kind you want. You’ll want to make sure the belt you choose is comfortable and can be adjusted easily (let’s be honest, the deep-fried food and funnel cakes aren’t going to eat themselves). The last thing you want to be doing at a theme park is fiddling with your belt too much. Though you can wear leather, we’d recommend a Lizard Tail rope belt, a nylon belt or even a novelty belt if you’re feeling fun. 

Resort Belts

If you’re traveling to a resort, you’ll need to think about the activities at the resort and plan your outfits. Then you’ll have a better idea of what kinds of belts you’ll need. If you’re golfing, you’ll want to opt for leather or faux leather. However, if you’re lounging around the pool, you might not even need a belt since swim trunks don’t require one. What about if you’re going sailing or fishing? Perhaps then a canvas, nylon or rope belt.

Foreign Travel Belts

Nothing says discomfort like having to fly on a bunch of planes for long periods of time. It can be hot, time-consuming and downright uncomfortable–especially when you’re traveling far from home. This can be even worse if you’re not dressed comfortably. A belt can play a huge role in your comfort so we’d again suggest the rope belt. It doesn’t contain any metal so it’s airport friendly. Just make sure you follow TSA’s instructions. 

You could also wear nylon, webbed or canvas belts as well. Just make sure you pay attention to the belt buckles on any belt you choose. Choose something that’s low profile and doesn’t cut into you at all. Rope belts also employ knotless technology so a buckle isn’t an issue.

Ultimately, the belt you choose for each kind of trip really depends on your comfort and outfit choices. If you’re not sure what type of belt to use, it might be time to try something new, like a Lizard Tail belt!