What to Wear on a Long-Haul Flight

If you’ve ever struggled to stay comfortable during a long flight, here are a few tips on choosing the right clothing, footwear, and accessories to transform your travel experience.

• Wear breathable fabrics
• Choose loose or stretchy clothing
• Wear comfortable shoes

Traveling—in general—requires a lot of preparation. Most people focus on what to pack for their upcoming journey and don’t pay much attention to what they’ll wear on their long-haul flight. We all know that comfort is key when flying, but many travelers face the challenge of balancing comfort and style in airport attire. The right outfit can make all the difference between arriving at your far-off destination feeling refreshed or drained.

Our travel experts compiled their top tips for what to wear and bring on long flights – focusing on comfort, style, and practicality. With today’s variety of athleisure wear, you can still look chic while maintaining comfort. From cozy sweaters to the perfect pair of travel-friendly pants, we'll explore essential clothing items, smart footwear choices, and must-have accessories for looking good on the go. Discover recommendations for staying fashionable without sacrificing comfort and outfit ideas for both women and men. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or gearing up for your first long flight, get ready to elevate your travel wardrobe.

Top tips for choosing what to wear on a flight

If you’ve ever struggled to stay comfortable during a long flight, here are a few tips on choosing the right clothing, footwear, and accessories to transform your travel experience.

Wear breathable fabrics

Breathable fabrics are essential when choosing an outfit for a long flight. Opt for materials like cotton, linen, silk, moisture-wicking, or modal. These materials allow airflow and absorb moisture to keep you cool.

Choose loose or stretchy clothing

Wear loose-fitting clothes that give your body room to breathe and stretch. Think athleisure – a nice blend of athletic and leisure wear. Leggings or pants with elastic waistbands or drawstrings are excellent choices. Tight or restrictive clothing can lead to discomfort and restricted movement when sitting for long periods.

Dress in warm, removable layers

The key to comfortable travel on long-haul flights is always to wear layers. Airplane temperatures can be unpredictable, ranging from chilly to warm in minutes. Start with a base layer (lightweight shirt or tee) and add a cozy sweater, sweatshirt, or cardigan that you can easily remove if you get too hot.

Layering your clothing allows you to create a flexible and adaptable outfit that can be adjusted to your comfort level throughout the flight.

Wear supportive and comfortable footwear

Don’t forget your feet! Chances are you will be walking around airports, standing in line, lugging baggage; take care of yourself and wear comfortable shoes for walking. Supportive shoes are essential for traveling. Ultimately, the best shoes for long flights and travel are sneakers or slip-on shoes with cushioned or rubber soles. Ballet flats or loafers are stylish alternatives, but comfort is key. Airport floors are hard, and walking is inevitable. It’s also a good idea to wear shoes that are easily removed and put back on. Some TSA security checkpoints require travelers to remove shoes as they pass through. Your airport footwear should be easy to manage during security checks, comfortable for long walks, and cozy for the flight.

Keep your destination in mind

Layering will also help with destination-specific climates. Consider your destination when choosing your long-haul flight outfit. Opt for lighter fabrics and colors if you're heading to a warm climate. If you're traveling to a cooler destination, pack a warm jacket or coat in your carry-on for easy access upon arrival.

Accessorize smartly

One of the best accessories to wear on a plane is a shawl or travel wrap. Not only will it keep you warm but you can easily remove it or use it as a pillow. A cell phone crossbody is also essential for traveling as it leaves your hands free and is easy to remove when going through airport security. Backpacks are ideal for personal items for carry-on. Skip belts, suspenders, bodysuits, or any other complicated accessories or outfits.

Airport outfit ideas for savvy travelers

If you need a little guidance on what to wear on long-haul flights, here’s some inspiration to help you strike the perfect balance between style and comfort.

Tops

Choose loose-fitting tops that are easily removed. As your base, wear cotton tees or tanks, lightweight shirts, or wrinkle-resistant button-downs. Pull-over sweaters or sweatshirts, cardigans, zip-up hoodies, and blazers are good choices for layering.

Bottoms

Your lower half needs just as much attention, especially when seated for an extended period of time. Choose bottoms that allow easy movement and won't restrict circulation, such as yoga pants, compression leggings, joggers, stretchy jeans, or palazzo pants with a drawstring.

Loose dresses

While you may want to wear a dress on your flight, something short and tight may make you feel cold or uncomfortable. Long, flowy, and comfy maxi-style dresses are great for travel and can be dressed up or down.

Shoes

Breeze through security and stay comfortable with slip-on shoes, sneakers, flats, and loafers. Choose a shoe with a rubber sole and avoid shoes that are difficult to get on or lace up. Feet and ankles tend to swell on longer flights due to air pressure, so consider that when choosing.

Accessories

You can still accessorize on long flights, but keep it simple. Shawls, pashminas, scarves, baseball hats (that can be taken off and easily stored), belts that can be made loose, smartwatches, cross-body phone cases, purses, and compression socks are acceptable. Leave the tie in your carry-on.

Top tips for how to be fashionable but comfortable in airport outfits on a long flight

You don't have to sacrifice style for comfort when it comes to long-haul travel. Here are some top tips to help you look chic while staying cozy during your flight:

Choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics

Wear clothes made from linen, jersey knit, cotton, silk, polyester, or nylon blends to ensure you look fresh even after hours of sitting.

Layer strategically

Layering is your best friend when it comes to airport outfits. Start with a comfortable base layer, like a soft t-shirt or tank top, and build from there. This allows you to adjust your outfit as the temperature changes throughout your journey.

Wear a matching set

Wearing matching sets works for men and women. They not only make you look and feel put together, but they’re also super comfortable and versatile.

Versatile dress

For a chic and effortless look, consider a flowy dress. Choose a loose-fitting maxi or midi dress in a soft, stretchy fabric. Add any top layer for extra warmth, like a cardigan or light jacket.

Easy-to-wear shoes

Wear sneakers, slip-ons, and any comfortable and easily removed shoe at security. Ballet flats are stylish but may get tight if your feet swell.

Accessorize wisely

The right accessories can elevate your airport outfit while serving practical purposes. For example, a stylish scarf or pashmina can double as a blanket or pillow, and statement sunglasses can hide tired eyes upon arrival. A fashionable smartwatch helps you keep track of time zones and offers apps with Wi-Fi connectivity.

Dress in dark colors

Dark and neutral-colored clothing looks more polished and hides potential spills or wrinkles better than lighter shades. Consider black, navy, or gray tones for fashionable versatility.

Business casual looks for work travelers

If you're heading straight to a meeting after landing or sitting in business class, consider a business casual outfit that's both professional and comfortable:

• Wrinkle-resistant pants or dark jeans.
• A crisp, wrinkle-resistant button-down shirt or blouse.
• A lightweight blazer or cardigan.
• Slip-on loafers or comfortable flats.

These pieces allow you to look polished while still prioritizing comfort for your journey.

Bonus Tip: Traveling with a blazer may seem like a stuffy idea, but blazers can instantly dress up an outfit. Plus, they can keep you warm. Make sure you opt for an oversized style to stay comfortable.

What not to wear on a long-haul flight

When preparing for a long-haul flight, it's just as important to know what not to wear as it is to know what to wear. Your comfort and convenience should be your top priorities. Here are some items you should avoid wearing on your next long flight.

Tight or restrictive clothing

Avoid wearing anything that constricts your movement or circulation:

• Skinny jeans or tight pants
• Bodycon dresses or skirts
• Tight belts or waistbands

Complicated or fussy outfits

Steer clear of clothing that's difficult to manage in cramped airplane bathrooms:

• Jumpsuits or rompers
• Clothing with complex fastenings or back zippers
• Bodysuits
• Corset-like tops

Uncomfortable footwear

Your feet may swell during the flight, so avoid:

• High heels
• Tight dress shoes
• New shoes that haven't been broken in
• Sandals or flip-flops

Clothing made from non-breathable fabrics

Synthetic materials can make you feel sweaty and uncomfortable:

• Leather pants or jackets
• Polyester blends that don't allow your skin to breathe

Strong fragrances

Be considerate of your fellow passengers and avoid:

• Heavy perfumes or colognes
• Strongly scented lotions or body sprays

Bulky accessories

You should leave any heavy accessories at home or in your luggage. Try to avoid:

• Heavy jewelry
• Tight belts or suspenders
• Ties

Top tips for staying comfortable on a long-haul flight

Now that you look good, here are a few more tips and essentials for making your long-haul flight more enjoyable and relaxing. Elevate your travel comfort with these ideas:

Eye mask to block out light

An eye mask is crucial for creating a dark environment conducive to sleep, especially on flights with varying light conditions or overnight red eyes. Choose a soft, lightweight mask that won't pressure your eyes.

Neck pillow for better sleep

You'll want to invest in a high-quality neck pillow to support your head and neck during those long hours in the air. Look for memory foam options that mold to your shape or inflatable pillows that can be easily packed away when not in use.

Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs

Block out noisy neighbors, crying babies, and aircraft sounds and immerse yourself in your in-flight entertainment, or put them on when you want some shut-eye.

Compression socks

Designed to help combat leg and foot soreness and prevent blood clots in the legs, compression socks are a great addition to your in-flight ensemble. They can keep your toes feeling like they are wrapped in a warm blanket and come in varying levels of support. If you don’t choose compression socks, choose cozy socks to keep your feet warm.

Pack a small bag

Carry on a backpack or tote with personal care items like lip balm, moisturizer, hand sanitizer, gum, mints, and tissues. Remember to only bring liquid containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less to comply with airport TSA regulations.

Get up and move

Move around the cabin periodically to get your blood flowing and to stretch out your legs. This will also help with jet lag.

Bring a reusable water bottle

Save the planet and bring your water bottle to keep your refreshments cool during your long-haul flight.

Lightweight blanket or shawl

Airplane temperatures can be unpredictable, so bring a lightweight blanket or versatile shawl. This can double as extra warmth or even a makeshift pillow.

How to dress children for a long-haul flight

If you’re flying with children, we have some tips on dressing the kids for a long-haul flight and a few things to bring to keep them comfortable. Like adults, kids and babies should be comfy as well.

• Dress them in layers. Start with a T-shirt, add a sweater, then a jacket.
• Choose comfortable fabrics. Dress the kids in matching sets like tracksuits, sweatpants and sweatshirts, jogging bottoms, leggings, and anything with an elasticated waist.
• Bring a cozy and extra-soft blanket.
• If you’re traveling with a baby or on a night flight, dress them in pajamas. Choose soft organic cotton two-piece sets for easy diaper changes.
• Bring a carry-on diaper bag or backpack with all the essentials needed, like a diaper changing kit, snacks, headphones, toys, and their favorite stuffed animal to soothe them.

Frequently Asked Questions About What to Wear on a Long-Haul Flight

How do you look good on a long flight?

The best way to look good on long flights is to dress in black and white, wear coordinated athleisure, choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics, accessorize with a scarf, carry a stylish bag with travel-sized toiletries, and wear a chic cardigan or oversized blazer.

What should I wear on my feet on a long flight?

For long flights, wear comfortable slip-on shoes or sneakers with cushioned or rubber soles. Avoid flip-flops or high heels that offer little support. Wear compression socks to improve circulation and reduce swelling in your feet and legs.

What is the best outfit to wear on a plane?

The best outfit for a plane trip includes comfortable pants like leggings or joggers, a soft T-shirt or top, and layers such as a cardigan or light jacket. Slip-on shoes or sneakers are ideal for easy movement and comfort.

Dressing comfortably for a long-haul flight can make a world of difference in your travel experience. Choosing the proper clothing, footwear, and must-have accessories ensures a more enjoyable journey from takeoff to landing. Always prioritize comfort without sacrificing style by choosing breathable fabrics and wear layers for temperature changes in the cabin and at your final destination.

Whether you're a frequent flyer or embarking on your first international trip, the right attire can help you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to explore. Keep these tips in mind to create the perfect airport outfit as you prepare for your long-haul adventure in the skies.

*Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of our company.