# Why Unbound Merino is the Best Travel Apparel for Minimalist Adventurers
As someone who enjoys traveling light and embracing simplicity, I’ve never felt the need to overthink gear. I don’t bring along drones, bulky DSLR cameras, or even heavy-duty hiking boots. My motto is clear: if it doesn’t fit in my 40L backpack, it stays behind. However, there’s one aspect I do prioritize — my clothing. When you’re traveling for extended periods, your garments endure a lot. They experience sweat, frequent washing, and wear and tear. This is why it’s crucial to find clothing that is durable, comfortable, and adaptable for long-term journeys.
A brand that has consistently met the challenges of my travels is **Unbound Merino**. I’ve been wearing their apparel for years, both while traveling and at home, and I’m continually impressed by its durability. In this piece, I’ll share why I believe Unbound Merino is the ideal travel clothing option for minimalist adventurers like myself.
## What Is Unbound Merino?
Unbound Merino is a boutique clothing brand based in Canada. The founders, who are passionate travelers, recognized that conventional travel apparel often lacked durability, versatility, and comfort. They aimed to design a line of clothing that could withstand the rigors of long-term travel while still being stylish and comfortable.
Their answer? **Merino wool** — a fabric derived from the wool of Merino sheep, famous for its ultrafine fibers. Traditionally associated with activewear, Unbound Merino took this adaptable material and transformed it for everyday travel use. The result is a collection of resilient, fashionable, and comfortable clothing perfect for everything from trekking adventures to short getaways.
## Why I Adore Unbound Merino
### 1. **Odor Control**
One of the remarkable attributes of Unbound Merino clothing is its **odor control**. Merino wool possesses natural antibacterial properties, making it highly resistant to odors — even in warm, humid environments. I’ve worn the same Unbound Merino shirt for days without it developing an unpleasant smell. In fact, one of the co-founders famously wore the same shirt for 46 consecutive days without washing it, and there was no odor. That’s the kind of reliability you seek when traveling with a limited wardrobe.
### 2. **Wrinkle-Free**
If you’re like me and prefer to travel with just a carry-on, you know how easily clothes can wrinkle when stuffed in a backpack. Thankfully, Unbound Merino apparel is **wrinkle-free**, so you can avoid looking unkempt when you retrieve your clothing from your bag. Whether you’re dining out or visiting a museum, you’ll always appear polished without the hassle of ironing.
### 3. **Light and Breathable**
When you’re on the road for a long time, every ounce in your backpack counts. Unbound Merino clothing is **light and breathable**, making it an excellent choice for minimalist travelers. The fabric effectively wicks moisture, keeping you cool in warm weather, while also being adequately warm for cooler conditions. This adaptability allows you to carry fewer items while still remaining comfortable in diverse climates.
### 4. **Chic and Flexible**
One of the features I appreciate most about Unbound Merino clothing is how **chic** and **flexible** it is. The straightforward, monochrome designs allow for easy mixing and matching of outfits, so you can wear the same pieces in different situations. Whether adventuring in the mountains, exploring a new city, or enjoying dinner out, Unbound Merino clothes look fantastic and provide comfort.
## My Top Unbound Merino Picks
Here are several of my favorite Unbound Merino items that I take on nearly every journey:
### **Merino Crew Neck T-Shirt**
This is my go-to travel shirt. It’s comfortable, breathable, and versatile enough for various occasions. Whether I’m relaxing on the beach or checking out a museum, the Merino Crew Neck T-shirt consistently looks and feels great.
### **Long Sleeve Merino Crew**
For cooler weather or when I need something slightly dressier than a t-shirt, I reach for the **Long Sleeve Merino Crew**. It’s just as comfortable and breathable as the short-sleeve version but offers a bit more warmth for those cooler evenings.
### **Travel Pants**
Unbound Merino’s **Travel Pants** strike the ideal balance between comfort and durability. I’ve worn them while hiking, roaming through cities, and even on long-haul flights. They’re lightweight, breathable, and stylish enough for various occasions.
## Advantages of