How To Choose The Right Outfit For a Long Flight

Travelling is slowly coming back, and we’re so excited! After over a year spent in one place, those with a wanderlust itch can’t wait to be airborne again! And even though going places is fun, long haul flights can become tiring even for most season travelers. One way to make the experience easier and comfortable is choosing the proper clothing.

It’s not rocket science, but following a few simple guidelines and tips, you can make your long-haul flight much more pleasant and arrive at your destination fresh and ready for an adventure.

Here’s how to choose the right outfit for a long flight.

Layers

One of the most annoying things about sitting on a plane for hours is that the temperature changes all the time. One moment you’re hot, and the next, you’re freezing. Our point is, you never know what’s going to happen, and you should be prepared!

That’s why the first thing to remember when planning your flight outfit is to opt for layers. This way, you can easily remove or add them whenever necessary!

Bottoms

Many people make the mistake of wearing jeans on their long-haul flights. Don’t do it! Denim, even the stretchy kind, is heavy, gets uncomfortable with time and starts rubbing on your skin. First of all, always opt for trousers with a loose waistband, this way you’ll be able to change positions, sleep and move around comfortably.

Stretchy and loose is the best combination, but if that’s not possible in your case, make sure your bottoms fit at least one of these descriptions. We recommend choosing cotton, cotton blends, merino, various athleisure blends, and anything soft, breathable, and provides warmth when it comes to fabrics.

Our insider’s tip is to go for darker colors and patterns in case you spill your drink, get a sauce stain from turbulence or sit on a bar of chocolate by accident.  Lastly, just because you’re comfortable doesn’t mean you should look like a slob. Look for styles that are both stylish and cozy!

Tops

Just as with the bottoms, you want something loose, stretchy, comfortable and that looks well with the rest of your outfit.

A piece you just can do without is a high-quality t-shirt that will be your base and most often the main layer. Keep the colors simple; our favorite tees for long haul flights are navy, grey, black and olive green. Always choose brands you can trust, like the black V-neck collection from Fresh Clean Tees. Check out their website: https://freshcleantees.com/products/black-v-neck

To layer on top, opt for a warm sweatshirt, hoodie or flannel shirt.  We also suggest a hoodie, a vest or a loose jacket with at least a few pockets as with all kinds of airline baggage fees adding to the price of a ticket these days, clothes that do double duty as wearable carry-on bags.

Footwear

Okay, this one’s a biggie. Shoes can make or break your trip and travel experience, so be sure you leave your nice but stiff boots at home and opt for something more comfortable.

However, don’t go to the other extreme and remember that you still should look presentable at the airport and later on.

Sneakers are one of the best choices, but if possible, go for the slip-ons to avoid pressure at the security line. Another great option is loafers and moccasins that are super easy to put on when you need to stretch your legs during the long hours in the air. Please, under no circumstance, wear anything with open toes; nobody wants to see that. Keep your sandals, and flip flops tucked in your luggage.

Another air travel faux pas is smelly socks. If your feet tend to get stinky, make sure you have a change of clean shocks and freshen up before you get on that plane.

Compression socks

A side-effect of flying for a long time is the poor blood flow and potential problems with blood clots, swelling and varicose veins in the long run. Compression socks are designed to apply pressure to your lower legs, helping to maintain blood flow and reduce discomfort and swelling. Healthline.com suggests practicing putting them on a few times before your flight as getting them on your feet, especially on a plane, can take some getting used to.

Accessories and gear

While you don’t want to wear a ton of jewelry and other accessories on your long flight, adding something minimal can pull the whole outfit together. You can’t go wrong with a watch, simple bracelet and a scarf that will work as a pillow too. For gear, you’ll want noise-cancelling headphones, chargers and power banks for all those devices.

Hand luggage

Luggage is a part of your look and carrying a raggedy bag won’t win you any style points. A simple leather duffle bag or soft-sided briefcase is all that is required and will complement any outfit. Keep the colors neutral too, neon green might be trendy, but it’s not the time or place.

Long flight outfits

Okay, so now that you know more about air travel essentials, let’s discuss the two best long flight outfit combinations. Sweatpants, t-shirt, hoodie, watch

This is the ultimate, time-tested long-haul outfit. We recommend opting for tailored sweatpants, so you look put together at the airport and when arriving at your destination. Go for classic colors such as navy, grey, black or olive green. You can color block or choose a monochrome look. A nice watch, whether it’s a smartwatch or a Swiss classic, will elevate the look and keep you updated on time.

Nylon travel pants, long sleeve t-shirt, flannel shirt, scarf If the sporty style is not for you, you can always go for the outdoorsy look with grey nylon travel pants (they should have spandex for stretchiness), a comfy burgundy long sleeve t-shirt, a lumberjack inspired flannel shirt and a warm scarf. This outfit will give you layers, and you’ll be able to go straight from the airport to whatever you have planned on your trip.