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Walking into a hotel spa should feel like stepping into a quiet, calm escape-not like you’re showing up to a fashion show. Yet, so many people overthink it. You’re not here to impress anyone. You’re here to relax. So what do you actually wear down to a hotel spa? The answer isn’t complicated, but it’s easy to get wrong if you assume too much.
First, forget what you saw in movies
No one in real life shows up to a hotel spa in a silk robe with matching slippers and a cup of herbal tea in hand like they’re in a 1990s romance film. Real spa-goers are practical. They show up in sweatpants, flip-flops, and a towel wrapped around them like a cape. And honestly? That’s the ideal look.Hotel spas are designed for comfort, not runway walks. The staff don’t care if your robe is from a luxury brand or if your slippers match. They care that you’re clean, you’re not dripping water everywhere, and you’re not wearing jewelry that’ll get lost in the steam room.
What the spa actually provides
Before you pack anything, know what’s already there. Most mid-range to luxury hotel spas give you:- A robe (usually cotton or terry cloth)
- Slippers (disposable or reusable)
- Towels (for after your treatment and the sauna)
- Lockers (with a key or code to store your stuff)
- Basic toiletries (shampoo, body wash, sometimes conditioner)
You don’t need to bring any of that. The robe and slippers are handed to you at check-in. You’ll change into them in the locker room. So your job isn’t to pack an outfit-it’s to pack what goes under the robe.
What to wear underneath the robe
This is where people get stuck. You’re going to be stripped down for massages, facials, or body wraps. So what do you wear while you’re waiting, walking between rooms, or getting ready?Simple answer: underwear. Or nothing at all.
Most spa treatments are done with you naked under a towel. The therapist will leave the room while you undress, and they’ll cover you with towels at all times-except the part they’re working on. So if you’re getting a back massage, your bottom half stays covered. If it’s a facial, you’re fully clothed except your face.
Here’s the rule: wear what makes you feel safe and comfortable. If you’re more at ease in cotton underwear, wear that. If you’re okay with going bare underneath, that’s fine too. No one is judging. No one is counting. The spa staff have seen it all.
What to bring with you
You don’t need much. But here’s what actually matters:- A swimsuit (if you’re using the pool, hot tub, or steam room)
- Flip-flops or sandals (for walking around wet areas)
- A small bag for your phone, wallet, and keys
- A hair tie (if you have long hair)
- Minimal makeup (if you’re getting a facial, skip the foundation)
- A book or magazine (if you’re planning to lounge after your treatment)
Leave the jewelry at home. Rings, necklaces, and watches can get in the way during treatments. Plus, locker rooms aren’t always secure. You don’t want to lose your grandmother’s necklace because you forgot to take it off.
What NOT to wear
Some things just don’t belong in a spa:- Street clothes (jeans, shirts, sneakers)
- Workout gear (yoga pants are okay if they’re clean, but avoid sweaty gym clothes)
- High heels or dress shoes
- Perfume or strong body spray
- Makeup (unless you’re getting a facial and want to test it)
- Wet swimsuits (change into dry ones after the pool)
Why avoid perfume? Because spas use essential oils and scents to create calm. Your citrusy body spray will clash with the lavender and eucalyptus. And trust me, no one wants to smell like a citrus bomb while they’re trying to breathe deeply.
What if the spa has a pool or hot tub?
If your hotel spa includes a pool, hot tub, or thermal circuit, you’ll need a swimsuit. Here’s what works:- One-piece swimsuits (best for comfort and coverage)
- Simple bikinis (avoid string styles-they’re not practical for lounging)
- Swim shorts for men (board shorts are fine)
Don’t wear a t-shirt over your swimsuit. It’s not allowed in most pools-it gets waterlogged, clings to you, and clogs filters. Same with denim. Even if it’s just a quick dip, leave the jeans at home.
After you’re done swimming, dry off and put on your robe and slippers before walking back to the relaxation area. No one wants to see wet footprints on the carpet.
What about men?
Men often feel even more unsure than women. You don’t need to wear anything special. Underwear or swim trunks are fine. Most men just wear boxer briefs or swim shorts under the robe. If you’re getting a massage, you’ll be covered with towels. The therapist won’t care what you’re wearing underneath.Pro tip: Bring a pair of clean, dry socks if you’re sensitive to cold floors. Some spas keep the air conditioning high, and the tile can be chilly. Socks are better than slippers if you’re just lounging.
Timing matters
Show up at least 30 minutes before your treatment. That gives you time to change, use the locker, take a shower, and sip some herbal tea in the relaxation lounge. Rushing defeats the whole purpose.Most spas ask you to shower before treatments. It’s not just hygiene-it helps your skin absorb oils and scrubs better. So don’t skip it. Even if you just rinsed off, a quick rinse helps.
After your treatment
You’ll probably feel relaxed. Maybe a little sleepy. Don’t rush out. Drink water. Sit quietly. Let your body adjust. Some spas offer post-treatment lounges with warm tea and light snacks. Take advantage of it.When you’re ready to leave, put your own clothes back on. Don’t walk out in the robe unless the spa lets you (some luxury places do, but most expect you to change). And always leave your robe and slippers in the locker room. They’ll be washed and reused.
What if you’re unsure?
Call ahead. Most hotel spas have a front desk or concierge. Just ask: “What should I wear for my treatment?” They’ll tell you exactly what’s provided and what to bring. No one thinks you’re stupid for asking. Everyone asks.And if you show up in sweatpants and flip-flops, you’re still doing it right. The spa isn’t a fashion show. It’s a place to reset. Your outfit should help you do that-not distract from it.
Do I need to bring my own robe or slippers to a hotel spa?
No. Almost all hotel spas provide robes and slippers at check-in. You’ll get them in your locker room. Just bring a towel if you’re sensitive to the standard ones, but even that’s rarely necessary.
Can I wear my gym clothes to the spa?
Only if they’re clean and not sweaty. Yoga pants are fine. But avoid workout gear that’s been used for running or lifting-odors and moisture can be off-putting. Spas are about calm, not sweat.
Should I shave before a spa treatment?
If you’re getting a body treatment like a scrub or wrap, shaving the day before is best. Shaving right before can irritate your skin, especially with salt scrubs or hot wax. For facials, don’t shave your face unless you’re used to it-razor burn can make the treatment uncomfortable.
Is it weird to go to a spa alone?
Not at all. In fact, most guests go alone. Spas are designed for personal time. Staff are trained to make solo guests feel welcome. You’ll find people reading, napping, or sipping tea-no one is watching you.
What if I’m not comfortable being naked during a massage?
You don’t have to be. Most therapists will cover you with towels at all times. You can wear underwear if you prefer. The therapist will only uncover the area they’re working on. If you’re still uneasy, ask for a longer robe or request a treatment that doesn’t require full exposure, like a facial or hand massage.
Can I wear makeup to a spa?
If you’re getting a facial, skip it. Makeup blocks pores and interferes with treatments. If you’re just using the pool or sauna, light makeup is fine-but don’t expect it to last. The heat and steam will melt it. Go bare-faced-it’s easier and better for your skin.
Final tip: Think like a local
In places like Adelaide, where spa culture is quiet and understated, people don’t dress up. They dress for comfort. You’ll see doctors, teachers, and retirees in the same robe you’re wearing. No one cares about labels. They care about peace.So wear what lets you breathe. Wear what lets you relax. Wear what makes you feel like you’re finally letting go. That’s the only dress code that matters.
