Overlanding Barbie

As space in Precious is mostly taken up by food, spares, tools and camping kit, the number of outfits in the overlander's wardrobe is determined solely by function. There's little room for mix-and-match ensembles and even if there was, the fact that it must all be tucked and squashed in the backpack means that there is no opportunity for standing in front of the cupboard trying to decide what to wear. As a result, we have a number of “Barbie” outfits that are used depending on the activity of the day.

Daily Barbie

We each have 2 Daily Barbie outfits, that are lightweight and sleeveless, don't show the dirt too much and can be worn for days on end without needing a wash. (Of course, the overlander's standards of cleanliness are severely limited along with space!) Daily Barbie outfits are usually only changed when the current one can be washed – all dependent on available water.

Border Control Barbie

The Border Control Barbie outfit is similar to the daily, but with covered shoulders and generally kept marginally cleaner so as to make a good impression when trying to enter a new country. Also used for visits to the embassies when applying for visas.

Malaria Barbie

Malaria Barbie outfits are long-sleeved and long-legged in thick fabric with socks and sandals to match – a fetching look! They are stiflingly hot to wear but are the only way to avoid being bitten, or at least reduce the chances. This outfit is teamed with lashings of insect repellent for us and Peggy.

Car Maintenance Barbie

For working on Precious, I have the Car Maintenance Barbie outfit, suitably scruffy and covered in grease. 

Exercise Barbie

In an effort to keep fit, “Jogging Barbie” is a baggy ensemble designed to permit free movement without offending the locals by showing too much leg or arm. For practising yoga, Jen has a “Yoga Barbie” outfit, while I generally make do with yesterday's vest and a kikoi. (Jen is definitely the better dressed on the Djin and Tonic tour.)

Beach Barbie

Of course there is Beach Barbie, with the inevitable cozzie and kikoi. These pics have been censored, due to the indecency of the exposure and the age of the models!

Going out Barbie

Even Overlanding Barbie loves to go out!  We might not get into the Hilton in these, but they're fine for the local bars.