Wherever he is going and for whatever reason, a gentleman must always travel in style. This extends from his clothes and luggage all the way through to his travelling etiquette. So, whether you are going for a quick city break or a beach retreat, make sure you get from A to B in ultimate style with our gentleman’s guide to travel.
WHAT TO WEAR
Natural fibres are a must. You’ll stay fresher for longer, and there’s nothing like a crumpled linen shirt for a stylish portrayal of how far you’ve travelled. Burberry Brit has a great cotton- and linen-blend shirt – £165, mrporter.com
Beware wearing white. Whether on private jet or Easyjet, getting from A to B can be a grubby business; keep your whites crisp for your first change at your destination. Colours and darks fare better.
Sunglasses hide a multitude of miles; we like Armani’s new Frames of Life range, £212, Selfridges
HOW TO BEHAVE
The best way to start your break is to pretend you’re already on it – stay calm and breezy when the inevitable delay happens, and you’ll feel much better.
Be patient in queues. Everyone is as frustrated, tired and hungry to arrive as you are.
A friendly comment to a stranger never goes amiss; airports but can be deadly boring, soulless places. Conversation can be an apt remedy – as long as the other party is clearly interested.
HOW TO GET UPGRADED
An easy-chic look helps; the airline are looking for someone who will upgrade seamlessly, and cause no hassle to the crew or other passengers. Do not flirt with the check-in girl – if she suspects you’ll be a pain in the neck to the air stewardesses, you’re staying in Economy, my friend.
Show the hallmarks of a gentleman at all times; be considerate, polite and good-natured, and you’ll get the staff’s trust.
Remember it’s luck as much as anything. Swaggering in with your jacket over your shoulder won’t seal the deal.
WHAT TO TAKE AS A CARRY-ON
Travelling well means thinking ahead. You need to make sure your clothes get there in as good a shape as you: this Alfred Dunhill Chassis Leather-trimmed Suit Carrier is as good as any valet. £279 from Svpply
Our favourite holdall is this Givenchy Nightingale piece. Discreet but with an interesting twist, it’s an original but classic bet. It’s made from sportsluxe neoprene, meaning it’s mega light and you can arrive looking unflustered. £1,575, Selfridges
An eye-mask gives you a fighting chance of getting some shut-eye, and it’s the travelling equivalent of ‘Do Not Disturb’; I swear by them when flying. Paul Smith, a British gent who knows a thing or two about travelling the globe, apparently does too, as he has designed this beautiful black Nappa leather eye-mask. £135, paulsmith.co.uk
By Charlotte Beale
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