Will synthetic clothes make me smell?

Cheaper 100% polyester shirts can retain body odor. Look for 'anti-microbial' finishes or stick with merino wool to mitigate this.

Can I just bring cotton if I'm going somewhere hot?

You can, but prepare for it to be heavy when damp. If you do, bring extra changes of clothes, as cotton will not dry overnight.

Choosing the Right Fabrics for Travel

Prioritize merino wool, synthetic blends, and linen over heavy cotton. These materials dry quickly, resist odors, and wrinkle less, allowing you to pack lighter for longer trips.

Select Merino Wool for base layers. Merino wool is naturally antimicrobial and temperature-regulating. You can wear a merino shirt for three days straight without it smelling, which is essential for capsule packing.
Use synthetic blends for high-activity days. Look for polyester or nylon blends with elastane (spandex) for movement. These wick moisture away from the skin and dry in under 4 hours if you need to sink-wash them.
Choose linen for hot, humid climates. Linen is highly breathable. While it wrinkles easily, the wrinkles are part of the aesthetic. It is the best choice for tropical destinations to avoid overheating.
Avoid heavy, non-synthetic cotton. Standard cotton absorbs water like a sponge and takes an entire day to dry. If you get caught in the rain or sweat through a shirt, heavy cotton will stay damp and uncomfortable against your skin.

Will synthetic clothes make me smell?: Cheaper 100% polyester shirts can retain body odor. Look for 'anti-microbial' finishes or stick with merino wool to mitigate this.
Can I just bring cotton if I'm going somewhere hot?: You can, but prepare for it to be heavy when damp. If you do, bring extra changes of clothes, as cotton will not dry overnight.