What to Wear on a Plane to Travel in Comfort & Style
Remember when flying was leisurely and glamorous and everyone dressed to the nines? Now it’s jam-packed planes, scrambling to make your flight, and passengers in the most casual (and sometimes revealing) clothing.
Despite it all, one thing hasn’t changed – I still want to feel comfy but look stylish when I travel. How about you?
Whether your flight is an hour or a whole day, what you wear on a plane can make or break the journey. Here are some of the newest outfits for flying that hit the perfect sweet spot between comfort and style.
How to Dress for a Flight
Cardigan and Pants set | tank top | shoes | sunglasses | luggage
1. Wear Loose-Fitting Pants
Comfort is king when you’re traveling by air. The best airplane outfits start with a pair of loose-fitting pants.
There’s nothing worse than sitting for hours on a plane in stiff, tight pants that squeeze your thighs and dig into your crotch! Plus, if you wear anything binding, you risk getting Deep Vein Thrombosis – blood clots in your leg, which can lead to sudden death!
The best kind of pants to wear on an airplane are:
- Wide-leg pants: relaxed and elegant with a tucked-in top
- Stretchy denim: Dark wash is versatile and easy to style
- Soft straight-leg and flares: Ponte pants are classy and comfy
- Loose Chinos – relaxed fit
- Slim Refined Joggers: casual but chic with a snug sweater or tee
All these are loose, soft, and comfy, allowing you to bend, stretch, and move on long, packed flights.
2. Add a Simple, Relaxed Top
The best travel outfits for planes start with a relaxed top that has some stretch to keep you feeling comfy and stress-free. Keep it simple.
Avoid tops with large buttons, zippers, or studs that weigh you down and can irritate your skin when crammed into a tight seat.
Also, stay clear of tops with decorative embellishments, such as fringe, large loops, or sequins, that could catch on something and be pulled. Remember how narrow those airplane aisles are!
I like plain, lightweight tops that fit fairly close to the body (nothing wide or flowy), that are stretchy and have long sleeves that I can easily push up if it gets warm.
3. Choose Breathable Fabrics
The most comfortable airplane outfits are light, comfy, breathable, and wrinkle-resistant.
Cotton is a top choice because it allows for air circulation, preventing you from getting too hot during the flight. However, it does wrinkle, so opt for a wrinkle-resistant cotton blend.
You can also opt for blended silks, knits, jerseys, and oh-so-cozy modal fabrics. Certain synthetic performance fabrics also work because they’re wrinkle-resistant, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying.
tee |poncho | wide leg pants | bag | glasses
4. Layer your Clothes
Airplanes are famous for their unpredictable temps. One moment, you’re sweating buckets, waiting on the runway for the plane to take off, finally; the next minute, you’re up in the air, freezing your arms off. I’m always cold on a plane, and they no longer provide blankets.
This is why layering is so important when creating a comfortable airplane outfit. Start with a light, airy base layer, such as a comfy cotton tee or tank top, and then layer as needed.
You can layer up or down with a lightweight, long cardigan, blazer, sweater jacket, or a loungewear sweatshirt or jacket. Avoid bulky ponchos or thick, heavy jackets that occupy a lot of space. They’re not practical when you’re trying to get to your seat on a packed plane.
I also like to bring an oversized scarf or a light cashmere wrap. This can be used for layering or as a blanket. When you don’t need it, roll it up and turn it into a pillow, or use it to cover your eyes when you want to sleep. It’s easy to toss into a carry-on!
black top | black pants | gray cardigan | earrings | suitcase
5. Neutral Colors are Safe
For Ease, keep airplane travel simple and chic with a neutral color palette. Black, gray, navy, beige, taupe, and white look sophisticated, making mixing and matching a breeze.
Dark neutrals tend to show stains less. In crowded airports and on packed planes, it’s easy to rub up against something dirty or spill a drink. Prints are also great for hiding messes.
joggers | red jacket | red tee
….But Color is o.k., too!
I wear jeans or dark-colored pants when I fly, but since I love Color, I opt for something bright. That’s just my style. A shot of red, for example, makes me feel happy, like vacation time has begun!
6. Ditch Heels for Comfy, Safe Shoes
The amount of walking you must do in an airport to get through customs, security, and finally to your gate is crazy! Leave your too-dressy, too-tight shoes or high heels at home! Instead, choose comfy shoes that are balanced with style.
- Slip-on sneakers make getting through security checks a breeze.
- Lightweight Trainers provide support and style without sacrificing comfort, protecting your toes from travel accidents like stubbing your toe on a heavy suitcase.
- Any other easy-to-walk-in closed-toe shoe
A flight attendant once told me that closed-toe shoes make it easier to escape in an airline emergency, such as a fire or crash, because they protect your feet from the fire and falling debris. No one likes to think about these things, but it’s true!
Finally, consider how much more hygienic a covered shoe is compared to a sandal or flip-flop, given that airplanes and their washroom floors are full of germs. About You don’t want anything gross splashing up on your feet!
7. Slip On Compression Socks
When you’re in a hurry to get to the airport, it’s pretty easy to forget to bring along some socks for the plane. I’ve done this a few times, and let me tell you, it’s pretty gross having to remove your shoes at security and walk through the scanner with bare feet!
Socks are also needed because you’ll be doing a lot of walking through the airport, and your feet will get sweaty. Plus, if you want to be able to take your shoes off during a long-haul flight, you better be wearing socks because no wants to see or smell your stinky feet!
The best socks for travel are tall, snug compression socks. They keep the blood flowing in your feet and legs, improve circulation, and reduce swelling during long flights. This is really important on long flights when you are sitting for hours.
Mockneck Shell | Pintuck Travel Pants
8. Choose Elevated Leisurewear and Matched Sets
Some leisurewear looks too casual and loungey, as if it belongs in the gym or on the couch while watching. However, if you can find a classy leisurewear set that is a little more polished, such as the green set above, that can work too. Matched sets are great because they look intentional and, therefore, more professional. Keep your outfit neat so you look classy, not trashy.
9. Carry a Bag that Gives You Freedom
Your best friend for stashing essentials and in-flight entertainment is a big, roomy tote bag. Look for one with pockets to keep things organized.
For short flights or for gals who don’t like to carry a lot of stuff, there’s the trusty crossbody bag! It’s all about convenience, security, and style rolled into one. Keep your essentials close and your hands-free. Opt for an adjustable strap for extra comfort.
Whichever way you go, I suggest avoiding bags with heavy hardware, such as studs or chains, which can weigh you down, get scratched, or accidentally knock a fellow passenger out if you are swinging it around onboard while trying to find your seat. LOL!
Questions…Many people ask……
Q. Leggings are Comfy. Can I wear them on a plane?
Leggings are somewhat controversial when it comes to air travel, and there are two key issues here.
They’re not the safest – Yoga leggings are the worst thing to wear on a plane, as they are both tight and made of thin synthetic materials, which are more likely to burn in a fire and will stick to your legs. If you still wish to proceed, consider a blended fabric.
They’re not the classiest – When you board a plane, you should be dressing not just for yourself but for the passengers whose very close space you will be invading. If you are wearing leggings with a short top and not much else, that’s a lot of information. If you plan to wear them, ensure they aren’t too flimsy and pair them with a long top, tunic, jacket, or short dress that covers your crotch and lower body. It’s only polite in such a crowded space; a longer top creates a more flattering look.
Q. What to Wear on a Plane in Summer?
Summer is when most people travel by air. It’s hot, and there’s more flexibility as to what you can wear. Here’s how to dress for a flight in warmer weather:
A long, comfy maxi dress paired with a layering piece, such as a jean jacket, can work well.
Shorts: I don’t recommend them because they are not comfy or elegant, but if you choose to wear them, go for longer Bermuda shorts to keep your thighs covered and warm.
Sundress: On short flights (i.e., 1.5 hours or less), I wear a soft, loose cotton sundress with 3/4-length sleeves and sneakers. It’s always fine, but pants are the best for any flight for warmth and safety.
Cropped Pants/Capris: If long pants feel too hot in summer, cropped pants or capris that hit just above the ankle to mid-calf are great options.
Here are a few more airplane outfits for summer.
Many people travel overseas in the summer. If you’re heading to Europe and aren’t sure what to wear, check out these Euro-chic travel looks.
top sold out – try this | joggers | bag | sneakers |earrings | suitcase
The Bottom Line about What to Wear When Traveling on a Plane
Traveling in comfort and style doesn’t have to be a puzzle. Whether you are jetting off on a business trip or a well-deserved holiday, there are a ton of options to help you feel relaxed and look fabulous. Follow these guidelines and prepare for takeoff with confidence and flair. Safe travels!
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In about a week and a half I’m going on my first long-haul flight that will take me through the Middle East and then Southern Africa. This article could not be more timely! For weeks I’ve had clothes hanging on the wall trying to decide what to wear and I keep changing them in and out. The recommendations really helped me decide the best items to wear for comfort and class. Thanks to all the commenters too. I had never thought of taking socks on the plane! I do believe, though that they may not be requiring us to remove shoes at the airport checkpoint in the US anymore—unless your shoes set off the alarm:) Have been following since I was 40 and now I’m 59 and your tips are always on point.
Hi Sandra, Wow, so nice to hear from a long time follower! Sounds like you have been with me since day one – That’s so lovely. Your trip sounds amazing. My flight to Vietnam will be a long one too. I hope I am able to sleep part of the way- that, and lots of movies! I’m so glad these recommendations helped. I love looking at what other women are wearing on the plane when I travel to pick up new ideas, but honestly, it’s all over the map. When I do see a gal who is dressed casually chic and well put together it makes me look twice, and I know from my airline friends these are they people that often get bumped up to first class. First impressions do count, so there could be a little bonus there – Lol! Have a wonderful time and great summer and please drop by again! Cheers, Deb
Deborah, Thanks so much for your thoughtful comments on what to wear when flying. I especially appreciated your thoughts on leggings–direct, and matter of fact. I fly a lot and have seen waaaayyyy too much of my fellow passengers’ er…assets because of thin leggings fabric and shirts that don’t cover enough. You’re right–choosing your travel outfits is about your comfort AND the comfort of those who are sharing space with you on the journey. Thanks for reminding us of that.
Hi JKH, I am honestly shocked every time I fly at some of the outfits women board the plane in. Tight, sweaty leggings that expose everything and ride up the crack of their bums, exposed midriffs, flimsy low cut tops, short shorts with flip flop type shoes, see through clothes, skimpy, skimpy stuff. I’m no prude, but come on! There is a time and a place for everything. Not only is it too much information, but it’s a flying hazzard. I used to be a TV producer and did a segment on this and all the airline people told me that you should wear long pants, shoes that cover your feet, and a long sleeve top or least a top with sleeves, when you fly because if there was ever an emergency, you are less likely to suffer cuts, or burn to a crisp. Sounds horrible, but really, safety first. I wish the airline would clamp down. And that’s my rant for today – LOL!
Love this post! Comfort is definitely a must when flying. I’ve started using Adira for travel days — their leakproof panties and soft bras are honestly a game-changer. Makes long flights so much easier without worrying about leaks or discomfort. Plus, everything feels super light and breathable, perfect for hours on a plane! ✈️💫
Thanks for the tip Jessy. They sound good for leaky bladders. Glad you dropped by. Cheers, Deb,
I always think about using the minuscule restroom on the plane. You know, the one with the sticky floor? No jumpsuits for me, and now I stick to joggers – they are much easier to keep from pooling on the ground around your feet. I also stick up on cozy socks at the dollar store – if they get yucky for any reason, I just throw them away before I leave the plane.
Hi Ann, That’s a really good point about the joggers and what a good idea about the socks,too! Thanks for the tip. Cheers, Deb
I travel frequently and love these ideas, especially the “no heavy hardware on your bag.” I’ve been knocked in the head, so I know you are right! I’m more than a little skeptical about the jumpsuit, however. So cute, but in my opinion, impractical for travel. I can’t imagine trying to wrangle one in an airplane bathroom!
Hi Lola, Thanks for your comment, and yes, I get what you are saying about planes and bathrooms. Spanx makes a really great set that is like a jumpsuit that would be better if you were traveling by plane. Have you seen their air essentials collection? Take a look. Super comfy and travel friendly:https://rstyle.me/+nRNoCcMZfERck3i4mntM0Q
Coming home from a two-week European river cruise three years ago, I was wearing my last clean top, an off-white knit tunic, and navy leggings, the perfect travel garb. Our flight out of Budapest was canceled (after seven hours of sitting in the airport), and we were put up in a local hotel. Dining in their restaurant that night, we were pestered by a persistent fly, which I tried to shoo away with a forkful of Hungarian stew that was flung down the front of my tunic. No more traveling in white!!????
Great article, except I, have one correction: point 2 – “It’s only polite in such a crowded space that you cover up a little.” Most men want to see a nice backside on a lady, more on a plane, so it’s ok to show your buttocks while wearing leggings. If you don’t believe me, ask any man on a plane.
Hi Jennifer, I’m sure some men would like it if you wore only a thong on an airplane (LOL!), but that doesn’t mean it looks classy or is appropriate. Thicker Ponte leggings that are more like pants can be o.k., but the light, thin ones some gals wear without a long top look like they forgot their skirt! Personally, I feel the airlines are letting anybody on flights wear anything these days, even when it is so far gone it offends. Recently I’ve read about women boarding planes with very short cropped tops, almost like swimsuit tops, open front lace-up tops open down to the navel, etc. I’d say, save that for the nightclubs. Cheers, Deb
After traveling this summer I found my perfect travel outfit & my flight must-haves!! I always FREEZE on a plane! Sometimes to the point of unstoppable chattering teeth. I was on my way to a warm, humid climate so I didn’t want to wear anything bulky or unwearable for my destination. I wore a stretchy jersey maxi dress in a navy floral print, denim jacket, pashmina scarf gladiator sandals, and… wait for it… my slick fabric Capri yoga pants underneath my dress! It was perfect!! I said “NO MORE COLD!!” With the extra layer of the capris underneath my dress, some fuzzy socks (enhanced with aloe to moisturize, because why not), my neoprene travel slippers for a walk to the lavatory, & some ThermaCare Heat patches, just in case the plane cabin was frigid. I was finally able to fly comfortably!! I also threw an extra t-shirt in my carry-on bag, just in case my checked bag didn’t make it. I could use my capri pants at my destination as backup PJs or as a 2nd casual outfit until my lost bag arrived!! Layer up, ladies!!
Sounds great Angela. My question is why do they have to keep those planes so cold I think it is pretty poor they now charge for blankets!
As someone who travels often, for both business and pleasure, these tips are spot on. May I add, as an interior designer, we have published posts about closets where we suggest that the very clothes you are recommending for travel are really our favs. With shoes, and accessories we can dress these up, down, and around to suit the day. Simple concepts that can work for our homes too. I’m ready to be “real” all the time!-Laurel Bledsoe
I’d be careful wearing any leggings that are SUPER tight. Your legs will swell slightly as you fly because of the altitude and that can make tight clothes pretty uncomfortable at 30,000 feet!
Scarves are the BEST accessory for traveling by plane because they make casual outfits look a little more vibrant and “together” PLUS you can bunch them up into a comfy pillow or neck support if you want to nap en route to your destination. Two birds with one stone! Thanks for this post — lots of great ideas!
I always travel with my longchamp medium tote and an “it” carryon size suitcase. My travel outfit consists of Talbots navy Dalton pants a navy Talbots tank top under a Tribal loose fitting navy and white long sweater. My Burberry trench is the only coat I take. Navy loafers are a good choice for easy to take off going through security. I take a camel pashmina for warmth on the flight.
Thanks for some of the tips. Jeans and a t-shirt at the airport has been my style!
I also packed a pair of socks for the flight from Hawaiian sun to SD snow recently – but when I got on the last leg where I needed the socks, I found that one was in my carryon and the other was in my checked bag! Oh, well. :)
Love the idea of bringing socks along if you’re wearing sandals on a flight. Great tip!
If you are wearing sandals and you bring socks, I would also suggest taking a pair of very light fold up slippers. If you have to get to go to the bathroom, you just slip them on over your socks. You don’t want to walk on airplane bathroom floor in your socks- yuck! Cheers, Deborah
I would recommend bringing socks because some aircraft has there air conditioning at the floor level
Hi Kathy,
I always travel with an extra pair of cozy socks. It makes the flight so much more enjoyable. Cheers, Deborah
I love the two travel style ideas represented here. They are 2 great options. I say ladies be daring white is a great color to wear while traveling it feels like summer and will brighten up any look. If you are really looking to be worried- free try Joe’s Annie Jean which is stain resistant. Prints are great but can sometimes overpower a person depending on a person shape or body type. Deborah and Glam Gals, I really enjoyed this and see that you guys are insightful in your style selection.
Thanks.
White is hardly worry-free! Prints, prints, prints! With wine maroon and ketchup orange… Always a cross bag option– you never know when 2 hands will be important. A smile is the most important thing to wear on a flight these day!
Hi Deborah and all the Glam Gals!
These ideas are great. Being in style yet comfy is what being fashionable is all about. I love this site!
If I may add a personal comment….. It concerns me when some women make negative comments about their body shapes. ALL people are beautiful in their unique way. As I have aged, I no longer criticize myself. Please, Glam Gals, let’s just accept what mother nature has given us and go with it! Oh, and keep current with Deborah’s website!
I love the look Amandine put together for traveling but I would suggest a darker color. White can be very unforgiving should you brush up against some dirt or something drop in your lap.
Hi Tina,
Yes, absolutely, if you are worried about dirt go for a darker color, especially on the bottom, but I wear dark colors for 8 months of the year and when I travel in summer, white feels fresh and vacation-like. I don’t find airports or airplanes any dirtier than sitting in a restaurant. Cheers, Deborah
Love your great ideas! They are very similar to the formula I followed when I flew to Rome a few weeks ago. I wore stretchy, dark wash blue jeans, a soft light brown cardigan over a white T-shirt, a leopard-print scarf, and Bandolino flats in a subtle tweed with a buckle across the toe. I did my hair and makeup, finishing the look off with a nice red lipstick. Putting together a polished travel-day outfit made me feel more confident and relaxed. My husband said I looked like a rock star. :)
$368 for a scarf!
I fly more than 100K per year. My go to outfit for long flights is leggings, wrinkle resistant knit tunic, simple or no jewelry and slip on shoes. I always carry a lightweight pashmina in my carry on bag. For transatlantic flights or flights to Asia, I also pack a pair of warm socks, disposable slippers like they provide in hotels in Asia, and modest pjs. Today, many street clothes look like pjs anyway, so I do not look odd. When it is time to go to sleep, I change in the washroom and then change back into street clothes about an hour before landing. Flight attendants often tell me that they think more people should do this. They would rest better in flight.
Within North America, I don’t need that step. But for long flights, I rest better on the plane and arrive at destination much fresher. I simply leave the slippers on the plane, and that way I don’t have to worry about transferring dirt and germs back into my carry on. I generally wear my eyeglasses on long flights, as opposed to contacts. I have keratoconus and wear specialized contacts that one cannot leave in whilst sleeping. I always pack a wallet and my passport, etc in my carry on bag, which I have customized for my own travel needs. This allows me to also carry a laptop bag as one of my two carry on items. I pack a lightweight Longchamps handbag with an adjustable strap in my checked luggage and use it once I arrive at my destination. The bag was quite an investment, but it is great for travel as it is lightweight, not bulky, stylish and looks good with both casual and business wear.
I have flown quite a lot, and I’ve had strangers in the airport compliment me on the way I look when I travel. Start from the bottom and work up: comfortable shoes that make walking easy but still look smart; full length (for warmth) pants that don’t wrinkle easily; layered tops to save space in your baggage and keep you warm or cool as needed; a scarf or shawl for added warmth, even to cover your face if you don’t have or like a sleeping mask; layers of necklaces and bracelets to save baggage weight and look stylish, but be quick to take them off and dump into a bin for security checks; comfortable underwear. Nothing should be too tight, but everything should fit well and be on the dressy side without being fussy. Comfort is most important, especially on long haul flights, but it IS possible to be comfortable while dressing well! Bon voyage!!
I love this idea but wonder if I could pull it off (slightly round body, on the vertically challenged side). When on a plane or going through the airport, I’m not much into sandals (just don’t like having my feet exposed due to all kinds of creepy stuff one might pick up). Would love some advice for an upcoming cross country trip.
All the best, Stacy
Hi Stacy,
If you are round, this can still be a good look for you, however there are few things to keep in mind. Make you wear a top that is not tight around your tummy and that flows. You need to have some breathing room. Also,pick a shoe that has a low, soft wedge. The wedge will give you elongate you a bit but you will still be comfy.
My favorite travel outfit is black jeggings (more dressy than blue jeans and more comfy!) I also like to layer as you never know what the temperature on the plane will be. I do this by wearing a black tank, a nice long sleeve T-shirt from Michael Stars and then an unstructured cardigan. I also always have a soft scarf to keep my neck warm if it is chilly or to use as a blanket as they do not give them on the plane much anymore! I keep the colors of my clothes neutral and bring in some color with the scarf.
HI Dori, Sounds like a good one! The idea of using the scarf to pull some color into the mix is a super one!
Loving your blog, all the way from Australia. :-)