How many pairs of socks to pack for two weeks
Short answer: For two weeks a good rule of thumb is one pair per day if you cannot wash, and fewer if you can rinse through along the way. It depends on habits, weather and activities. Pack an extra pair in your hand luggage rather than a whole bag you never use.
Start with your own habits
The simplest rule for a two week trip is one pair of socks a day. That gives a clean pair every morning without thinking about laundry. But many people manage with far fewer, because they can wash along the way or wear the same pair for several days in cool weather. How many you need therefore depends on your habits, on the weather and on how much you walk. Think about how your own trips usually go, and start from there.
Think in washes rather than days
The question is really not how many days you are away but how many times you can wash. If you have access to a washing machine once during the trip, you only need socks for about a week at a time. If you can rinse a pair through in the basin in the evening, you can manage with even fewer. If you are on a trip with no washing, count on one pair a day and a couple of extra. Plan for the most uncertain part of the journey so you do not run out.
Choose socks that dry quickly
If you wash by hand, it matters that the socks dry overnight. Thin, smooth socks dry faster than thick terry socks, and they take less room in the suitcase. Rinse them well, press the water out in a towel and hang them somewhere with airflow. Avoid hanging them directly on a hot radiator, as that can make them stiff and wear them out faster. A soft fabric such as viscose from bamboo feels light and does not turn stiff, but drying time always depends on thickness and air.
Pack for both shoes and weather
Think about which shoes you are taking. With trainers, short socks may be enough, while boots and walking shoes need a little more cushioning. If rain is likely, pack a spare pair to change into. For evenings, tights can be a good layer under a dress or skirt if the temperature drops. See bamboo tights for women. Take both thicker and thinner pairs so you can adapt to the day without packing double.
Pack the related items too
Socks are seldom packed alone. For a two week trip you need underwear, and the same rules can apply to it. See bamboo panties. If you will have bathing facilities, remember a quick drying towel if you do not want to use the hotel one. See bamboo towels. Pack everything in small bags or on separate sides of the suitcase, so you can quickly find what you need and keep clean and dirty apart.
After you return
When you get home, all the socks need washing. Turn them inside out, wash according to the label and avoid too much heat. Sort out any that have worn thin at the heel or toe and replace them before the next trip. Do write down how many pairs you used and how many you never touched. Then you can adjust the number next time. After a couple of trips you have your own rule, and you no longer have to guess when you pack.
Frequently asked questions
How many pairs of socks should you pack for two weeks
As a rule of thumb one pair per day, but fewer if you can wash along the way. It depends on habits, weather and activities.
Can I wash socks by hand while travelling
Yes. Rinse them with mild soap, press the water out in a towel and hang them with air around them. Thin socks often dry overnight.
Should I pack extra socks
Yes, a spare pair in your hand luggage is a good precaution in case you get wet or the suitcase is delayed.
See our range of men's bamboo socks.
