What to wear to religious sites when travelling

What do you wear to a church, temple or mosque as a visitor? Modest, clean clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Many sites expect it. Some require more, such as covering your hair, and some ask you to remove shoes.

The rule

Pack one light layer that covers shoulders, and wear or carry something that covers knees.

Worked example for a hot city trip: a loose cotton shirt, light long trousers or a long skirt, a large scarf, and slip-on shoes. That outfit works in heat and in most sites.

Why a scarf is the best item

A large scarf can cover shoulders, a head or a bare back. It weighs very little, fits in a day bag and works as a sun shield, a towel or a blanket. Put one in the bag even if you think you will not need it.

Check before you go

• The site's own website, or the local tourism page, often lists dress rules.
• Rules can differ by gender, by area of the site, or by day.
• If you are unsure, ask at the entrance. Staff would rather you ask than guess.

Hot days still need breathable clothes. Light long trousers and loose sleeves usually beat tight shorts. See the hot destination packing list.

For a wedding in a place of worship, the destination wedding guide covers outfits.

The exception

Some sites are not open to visitors at all during services, or have extra rules such as no photos. Plan your visit around opening hours, and be quiet and respectful.

Pack for the quick change

Roll the scarf into your day bag. Wear a top with sleeves that covers your shoulders. Choose trousers or a long skirt that covers your knees. Slip-on shoes help at sites that ask you to remove them. Wear socks that you do not mind being seen in.

Respect and photos

Ask before you take photos. Some sites ban them or ask for silence. Switch your phone to silent. Do not touch objects unless you are told you can. If you are unsure what is expected, watch what others do, or ask a guide or staff member.

If you are caught out

Many sites lend or sell cover-ups at the entrance. That is not guaranteed, so carry your own. If you are not allowed in, do not argue. Come back later with the right clothes.