Whenever I know I need to be on a plane, I have a very specific travel outfit combination that I always gravitate towards. Doesn’t really matter where I’m heading, or even how long the flight is. Planes are consistent. And so is my travel uniform.
Planes are chilly and they’re just uncomfortable no matter what. Even if you’re flying first class. With that, I always want to be as comfortable as possible when traveling. Not only for the plane ride, but the Uber ride to the airport, the running through the terminals and even sitting for hours on end waiting for your flight to board. Comfort is key!
Before any trip I always set out my travel outfit the night before. I make sure I have my most comfortable lululemon Align leggings, a cotton tee, a light layer like a sweatshirt or hoodie plus a light jacket. Usually a denim jacket, leather or even a utility jacket.
I try to make this travel outfit work with what I packed in my suitcase so I’m not wasting more space. If I plan on wearing a leather jacket all weekend, I’ll wear that on the plane. I also make sure to set my comfortable travel sneakers aside (either my Veja’s or Converse depending on what I packed) and even a comfortable bra.
To me, this is the PERFECT travel outfit that’s comfortable, complete and allows you to move through an airport easily. Plus, this outfit is actually cute! I wouldn’t feel gross if check-in is later than expected and I had to explore a few hours in this ensemble. Here are a few more favorite outfit ideas to help you figure out what to wear on a plane.
What To Wear On A Plane
Whenever I am getting dressed for a flight, comfort is key. But there is always a way to make it feel a little put-together. I personally avoid actual pajamas, slippers and the like. I think there’s a better way to be comfortable and not be in your pjs. It can be as easy as a pair of joggers and a cardigan. Leggings styled with an oversized sweater works too. And if you do want to be comfortable, but more dressed up, try a midi skirt and sneakers. Here are some of my favorite plane outfits that feel comfy but look put together for your airport outfit.
Comfortable Plane Outfits
Leggings, Tee & A Jean Jacket
Hands down my most worn outfit on an airplane. I almost always am in this combination no matter if it’s a long haul flight or a quick 30 minute one. My go-to lululemon Align leggings (insanely comfortable), comfy sneakers, a tee long-sleeved shirt or sweater depending on the weather, and my beloved denim jacket. I love a jacket that has pockets for travel days to easily hold my phone and AirPods to leave me hands-free as much as possible.
For an extra layer, I sometimes will also add a sweatshirt or sweater over my tee just in case!
Comfy Jeans, Sneakers & A Light Layer
If you’re going to wear jeans, just make sure you are throwing on your most comfortable jeans ever. Go for a relaxed fit or the jeans that have the best stretch. Just add a comfortable travel sneaker and a light layer like a sweatshirt or cardigan for a complete look.
Faux Leather Leggings & Moto Boots
This is a great outfit to wear on the plane for its comfort but also for the ease of going straight into exploring. It’s put together, comfortable and chic. I love to wear leggings on a flight and these faux leather ones feel a little more elevated than my workout ones.
If you’re thinking about faux leather leggings, be sure to check out this review here.
Trousers And Sneakers
I actually find trousers to be so much more comfortable than jeans. So these are a great option for a comfortable airport outfit, and look really put together. You could easily head straight to your meetings in this look. Just swap your sneaker out for your flat or loafer.
Midi Skirt, Sneakers & A Tee
If you’re not into pants on a plane, a great alternative is a midi skirt or maxi dress. When I’m not wearing pants for a travel day, I always opt for a midi instead of a mini. To me, there’s really nothing more disgusting than your bare skin against an airplane seat.
Just be sure to pack a light jacket or layer like a denim jacket with you since planes always get cold! Light jackets or lightweight sweaters are key to staying comfortable on a flight.
Comfortable Joggers
Joggers are the new jeans in my book. They’re so comfortable and versatile too. I like that joggers are more flattering since they’re a little tailored and slim fit. But still super cozy and comfy. I like to treat these like jeans or leggings and add a graphic tee and light layer as always.
What To Wear On A Long Plane Ride
Compression Socks
Long plane rides can cause you to swell and even potentially cause blood clots. This is obviously an extreme scenario, but it’s definitely a possibility. One way to fight swelling and prevent potentially dangerous blood clots is to wear compression socks. These are essential on long plane rides especially if you don’t plan to get up and walk around every hour.
Layering Is Key
Planes can get hot, then cold, then hot again. Layering light pieces so you can easily peel them off and put them on, is key for comfort on longer plane rides.
Comfortable Bras
There is no need for your underwire bra on a long plane ride. I always opt for a comfortable bra without underwire. These are some of my favorite non-underwire bras that are great for wearing all day long while still feeling a bit more supported.
What Not To Wear On A Plane
Some items are just a HARD no for me. And everyone might be different here with their own comfort and style. But for me, these below items have no place on a travel day. If you HAVE to wear these items the moment you land, pack it in your carry on bag for easy access. You can quickly swap out your leggings for your work pants when you land. Or your loafers for high heels to head to a meeting.
Stiff Jeans
Even for a short flight, I still leave my stiff skinny jeans for once I get to my destination. I try to wear my comfiest bottoms whether it’s leggings or jeans, but comfort is key. There’s definitely a few pairs of denim I own that feel like leggings to me, or are simply just oh so comfy. Those are the ones I reach for if I want to wear jeans on a flight.
High Heels
If you’re traveling for work, I recommend swapping out your high heel for something more comfortable but still professional. A loafer or ballet flat is perfect for that. If you have to swap quickly after landing, just pack your high heels in your carry on bag.
Shorts
Nothing more disgusting than your skin touching the seat of an airplane. So I leave my shorts in my suitcase even if I’m traveling somewhere warm. If you’re concerned about landing and being too hot, just pack your shorts in your carry on bag so you can easily swap into them when you land in the bathroom. I’ve done this on numerous occasions and it’s no big deal!
Open Toed Shoes
There’s something about bare feet on an airplane that just really grosses me out. First of all, airplanes are air-conditioned like the arctic circle. You’ll be so much more comfortable in shoes and socks.
I know kicking off your sandals while going through airport security may be faster, but you’ll thank me later when your feet aren’t freezing while on your flight. Plus, sandals take up minimal room in a suitcase, so save space and wear those chunky sneakers or boots and save some space.
What To Wear When Flying First Class
If you’re lucky enough to fly first class, congrats! You’ll likely be able to lay flat which is such a great way to travel on long flights. Here’s what to wear if you’re flying first class, especially on long haul flights. I think there’s definitely a feeling of wanting to look a little more polished when flying first class, but always keep comfort in mind.
Matching Sets
To accomplish that polished look, but ease and comfort, opt for a great matching set for your first class trip. It allows you to look pulled together but you’ll be super comfortable in soft joggers, a cashmere sweater and so on.
Easy To Remove Shoes
Being able to sleep horizontal is a treat in first class, so you want to be able to easily remove your shoes, or put them back on to run to the bathroom when needed. This can be a sneaker you can slide on and off with ease, or a mule.
Socks
Because you’re able to sleep, you’ll want to make sure you have some socks on to keep your feet from getting cold. Plus, it’s another layer of protection against the dirty floors if you do find yourself having to stand up to grab something in your bag overhead.
Should I Bring A Sweater On A Plane?
Always. I think it’s so important to have a layer to easily add or take off when flying. Planes can be very chilly, but then there’s also moments when the engine is off and it starts to get really hot. Having a sweater on the plane is ideal for comfort and ease.
a final tip!
And just a little tip from me to you. I like to try to pack smart and that means remembering to pack a RETURN travel outfit to wear on a plane. This is especially important for long-haul flights. There’s nothing worse than realizing you didn’t pack a fresh outfit to sit on an airplane for hours in when you get ready to head to the airport to return home.
That’s why a return airport outfit is always listed on my packing list when I pack. And yes, I have a standard packing list that I always refer to make sure I don’t miss the essentials. You can also check out this post for tips on what to pack for any trip.
To make sure you also don’t accidentally wear this outfit and render it useless on your return flight, I pack this in the tiny packing cube I have. It fits the whole outfit I need and it’s easy to grab!
You can check out a few more of my favorite travel tips here. From my favorite travel bags, how I pack a toiletry bag, and also the right way to pack a hat!
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