This is a guide about what to wear on a plane for women.
Do you listen to podcasts? I love them! I listen to all kinds…talk shows, business pods, BLOGGING pods. Even podcasts about podcasting! One that’s on heavy rotation for me, though, is a Brazilian podcast where the host tells other people’s stories. And the other day she was telling a story where the woman was going on a long haul flight for the first time and she was wearing tight jeans and stiletto heels and her idiot boyfriend at the time was telling her off for that. How was she supposed to know?! She wanted to look nice! She was flying to Italy after all!
Fast-forward to just now and I saw someone on IG talking about mistakes people make when getting ready to fly. All totally avoidable and fixable! So I thought I’d hop on here with some tips about what to wear on a plane or not. I’m sure there are many more people who could benefit from a little advice on this…
I remember the first time moved abroad and my mom was telling me off because I was wearing jeans and a tshirt. I wasn’t dressed up as it was “appropriate” for flying. Aaahhh we’ve come along way…fortunately! (although some times some of us take a step back. Remember when there were always stories in the news about girls banned from a flight for wearing leggings, one of the most comfortable items of clothing?!)
Anyway! Flying is exciting until you’re three hours into the journey and regretting your outfit. Too tight, too heavy or too many layers and suddenly that “cute airport look” becomes a nightmare. The good news? With a little planning you can put together a plane outfit that’s comfortable, practical and still stylish. Especially now that joggers and sweatshirts have become trendy! This guide covers what to wear, what not to wear and the extras that make all the difference on your next flight.
What to Wear on a Plane
Yes: Comfortable, Breathable Fabrics
Airplanes get stuffy and cramped, so comfort is non-negotiable. Opt for stretchy leggings, joggers or relaxed-fit jeans in breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo blends. A soft oversized T-shirt or long-sleeve top keeps you comfortable for hours.
If you have a UNIQLO wear you are, I can’t recommend these enough! (so much, it’s not even an affiliate link! 😂)
No: Heavy or restrictive fabrics. Skinny jeans or stiff trousers cut off circulation and make long flights miserable. Avoid itchy materials like wool (unless it’s in a light, soft layer) – you’ll regret it fast! Also, hard pass on jumpsuits, flowy pants, long skirts and underwired bra.
Yes: Layers for Temperature Swings
Cabin temperatures change constantly, so layering is your best friend. A breathable base layer, a cosy jumper or cardigan and a lightweight jacket that you can stuff under the seat or use as a pillow are perfect.
Personally I LOVE a big comfy hoodie for travelling.
No: Complicated outfits with too many buttons, zips or accessories. They’ll make security checks slower and are uncomfortable if you want to nap. Bulky coats are also a pain unless you’re wearing them only for warmth en route to a cold destination.
Read more: Packing Checklist for Europe: Essential Items For The Best Eurotrip
Yes: Slip-On Shoes
Security checks are smoother if you can slip your shoes on and off quickly. Trainers, loafers or comfy flats are ideal. For long-haul, slip-on trainers with cushioned soles are perfect for swollen feet.
No: High heels, brand-new shoes or anything tight around the ankle. Long flights can cause swelling and you’ll hate yourself if you can’t get your shoes back on after takeoff. (ps: that reminds me…getting ankle tattoos right before a long-haul flight is also a bad idea 😅)
Yes: Compression Socks
Not the prettiest accessory but your legs will thank you. Compression socks improve circulation and reduce swelling, especially on flights longer than 3 hours.
No: Bare ankles if you’re prone to swelling or feeling cold. Flip-flops are also a bad idea as they leave your feet freezing and offer no support when you’re walking across giant airports.
Yes: A Functional Bag
The perfect personal item is roomy but organised. A structured backpack or crossbody bag with multiple compartments makes it easy to grab your passport, snacks or headphones without digging through a black hole.
Bags that don’t have a closing feature (like totes or shoppers) are a pain as you’ll spend the whole flight wondering if something fell out, if someone took anything… (no? just me?)
No: Tiny handbags that barely fit your essentials. On the other end of the spectrum, oversized totes that collapse into a mess make finding anything stressful mid-flight.
Yes: Useful Gadgets & Travel Accessories
Some gadgets really do make travel smoother. A portable power bank, a wireless headphone adaptor (to connect wireless headphones/earbuds to in-flight entertainment) and a refillable water bottle save headaches. A small travel pillow or scarf that doubles as a blanket can also make a huge difference.
No: Bulky extras you won’t use. Giant neck pillows, heavy books you won’t read or multiple devices that add weight but no value are just clutter. Stick to lightweight, multipurpose items.
READ MORE: What to Pack for Europe in Winter: The Ultimate Packing List for Every Climate
Yes: Minimal Jewellery and Light Makeup
Keep accessories simple: stud earrings or a delicate necklace. Anything chunky will dig into your skin while you sleep. A hydrating mist or moisturiser is more useful than a full face of makeup, since plane air is so drying.
No: Complicated jewellery (bracelets, stacked rings, dangling earrings) that set off security alarms or get caught on clothes. Heavy makeup often ends up feeling cakey after a few hours in recycled air. As a courtesy to everyone on board, skip the strong perfumes.
Yes: A Scarf or Wrap
This is the most versatile travel accessory you can pack. It doubles as a blanket, pillow or even a way to freshen up your outfit when you land.
No: Nothing at all to keep warm. Airplane blankets aren’t always available and, when they are, they might be scratchy.
Yes: Glasses
If you wear contacts your optometrist has probably told you not to wear them on flights but I’m adding here as a reminder just in case… stick to glasses to avoid dry eyes and potential eye infections!
Final Thoughts
Your plane outfit doesn’t need to be Instagram-perfect, it needs to make a long, cramped journey feel tolerable. Stick to breathable layers, slip-on shoes and a functional bag. Skip anything tight, heavy or fussy. With the right outfit and a few clever gadgets, you’ll step off the plane looking and feeling better than most of your fellow passengers.
This was a post about what to wear on a plane.
