Updated on January 2, 2025
As much as I love to travel, spending hours crammed on a plane is never an enjoyable experience. There are things you can do to make it a little easier though, including wearing the right outfit. Here is my guide to what to wear on a long flight for a comfortable journey.
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What To Wear On A Long Flight
The trick when working out what to wear on a long flight is keeping it simple. Make comfort your priority, fashion second. Let’s be honest, no one looks their best after a long flight anyway, so why not dress for the occasion?
Here are my go-to items that I always wear on long flights. Plus a couple of extra items I pack for even greater comfort.
What Top To Wear On A Long Flight
So, I am one of those crazy people who have specific items in their wardrobe just for flying. In reality, any comfortable t-shirt will do the job. But saying that, who could resist an airplane mode tee especially for the event?
Whatever design t-shirt you go for, remember to keep it simple. Something baggy without embellishments is the most comfortable. Especially if you want to try and get some sleep!
What Pants To Wear On A Long Flight
The same rule applies for pants when flying. I like something baggy made in a stretch jersey such as harem pants. Tracksuit trousers are another great option when you are looking for comfort.
Some people like to fly in leggings and I generally live in them at home for comfort. When flying though, I like something more loose-fitting so tend to leave the leggings behind.
Pro Tip: Layers
When it comes to airplanes, there are two temperature options. Blazing hot, or freezing cold. No matter how much you play around with that air conditioning vent, it is impossible to find a comfortable setting.
The only sure-fire way to beat the system is to travel in layers. Always wear a cardigan or hoody for flying so you can easily add or remove layers as required.
What Shoes To Wear On A Long Flight
There is a temptation when flying to wear your heaviest pair of shoes. While this can be helpful, unless you’re really pushed for suitcase capacity, I wouldn’t recommend it. All of your hard work of dressing for a comfortable flight is going to be undone if you pair your outfit with walking boots!
I like to go for a lightweight trainer instead. If possible, I opt for a slip-on one as it makes getting through security much easier! I love this pair by Sketchers as they are super comfy!
Extras You Want To Pack
There are also a couple of extra items you’ll want to pack to ensure your journey is extra comfortable. Firstly, be sure to bring a scarf with you. Ideally, a large blanket scarf, which can double up as a pillow or blanket.
Secondly, a decent pair of compression socks is a must. They’re not glamorous but I did recently discover they come in some adorable designs. They’re vital for ensuring good circulation during the flight.
If you’re looking for more tips on what you need to pack in your carry on bag, check out our guide to packing carry on like a pro.
What To Wear On A Long Flight
So these are my top tips on what to wear on a long flight if you’re looking for comfort. What is your go-to item in your wardrobe to ensure a comfortable journey?
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Hello, I’m Hannah! I’m a writer and photographer who loves experiencing the wonders of Yorkshire. My guides will help you escape from your daily routine by showing you that you don’t have to go far to find an adventure.
Layers is such an important advice, especially when you are flying from hot to cold destinations. I’ll never forget the time when I boarded a plane wearing just a t-shirt and jeans, coming back from Tanzania to Europe in winter, and there were no blankets available on the plane. Luckily we did have a stop over 2 hours after the take off, and they “re-stoked”, but it was a very cold wait.
It’s always a harsh wake up when you return home from somewhere hot isn’t it! I came back from the States and changed planes in Iceland. We had to deplane away from the terminal. It was 6am and -4 degrees…I was definitely glad to have my layers then!
It’s all about the cosiness for me too when I fly. Great post.
Making a flight cosy is one of the few things we can do to make the journey enjoyable. I’ll never travel without my cosy layers to make it a little more comfortable! I’m glad you like the guide!
Love this!! It’s so nice to be able to get off a flight and be ready to explore! These are such good tips! Especially the scarf, I use mine as a blanket all the time!
I’m glad you like the tips! There’s something really comforting about having your own ‘blanket’ rather than the ones provided on the flight. I love using a scarf since it is easy to just wear in onto the plane so I don’t have to pack it!