Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made on Amazon in addition to other retailers featured on the blog. Thank you, we appreciate your support!
Wondering what to wear on a plane? Find out our foolproof formula for long-haul trips. Use them on long-haul flights or short weekend getaways!
What to Wear On A Plane
Written by: Niki Landry
Table Of Contents
Over the last few years, I’ve developed a sort of formula for long-haul trips. I know the clothes I prefer to wear from my travel capsule wardrobe, I have my electronics and airplane toiletries readily available, and my water bottle is full before boarding the plane.
These are the small steps I take to make my airport and plane experience tolerable, if not enjoyable. It all begins with my outfit, though. If I’m wearing the wrong clothes, it can throw everything out of order. Wear these suggested outfits on the plane or pack individual outfits in each packing cube as shown in this video!
To help you plan what to wear on a plane, I’ve put together 5 airplane-friendly outfits that work well for long-haul trips.
Casual-Chic Outfit
My first outfit involves leggings, some cute espadrilles, and a chic, yet practical backpack. I try to balance the fashion with the need for practicality as much as possible. Here’s a quick breakdown of the essential items:
Shop Nordstrom: Sizes XXS-XXL | 1X-3X
Zella Live In Leggings (Reader’s Choice!)
Our readers’ all time favorite style to wear at home and while traveling is the Zella Live In leggings, available in sizes XXS-XXL, and 1X-3X.
I don’t leave home without a pair of black leggings; in fact, I am usually wearing them out the door. They are the ultimate in comfort and my favorite bottoms to wear on planes.
The dark color helps conceal any mishaps or spills, the stretch is perfect for extended periods of sitting, and they keep you warm when the plane inevitably becomes freezing mid-flight.
You can also find out more in our Zella leggings review!
Shop Sizes S-3X: Amazon
SSOULM Peplum Top
I paired these leggings with a comfy yet classic peplum top and a lightweight open cardigan. A peplum top is a terrific basic that has flair and can be dressed up or down. The one pictured above by SSOLUM is available in sizes S-XL and 1X-3X.
Both the peplum and a cardigan would pair well with any number of bottoms once you get to your destination.
Shop: Amazon
Sam Edelman Verona Flat
The adorable Sam Edelman espadrilles are easy to slip on and off at security. Plus, they are a nice closed-toe option for warmer weather. Just give yourself enough time pre-trip to break them in.
Shop: Nordstrom | Bloomingdale’s | Longchamp
Longchamp ‘Le Pliage’ Backpack
My go-to bag is the Longchamp backpack which is well loved by TFG readers and by me! It’s nylon, so quite durable, yet the leather trim adds a stylish finish and it fits all my airplane essentials like a tablet and small toiletry kit to freshen up.
And once I land I can use it as my day bag!
Learn more about the benefits of the ‘Le Pliage” backpack in our complete review!
Here’s the full example of the outfit, with some suggested color ideas:
Cardigan | Eye Mask | Scarf | Backpack | Peplum Top | Flat | Moisturizer | Leggings
Summer-Chic Outfit
My second outfit is geared towards more warm-weather travel, so I will wear some versatile items that will double as my travel clothes. This includes a maxi dress, cute sandals, and a tote. Here’s a quick breakdown of the essential items:
Shop XS-XL (Regular and Petite): Nordstrom
Loveappella V-Neck Jersey Maxi Dress
A comfy tank maxi dress is the perfect base for a long-haul flight. It’s unrestrictive shape and soft fabric allows you to stay covered and feel fresh for the whole ride. The one pictured from Loveappella comes in regular and petite sizing, from XS-XL.
These are some of our readers’ favorite maxi dresses!
Shop XXXS-3X: Nordstrom
Madewell Denim Jacket
When I know sunnier skies are waiting for me, I go for a light jacket like this one from Madewell. I always wear or hold my jacket on the plane. It doubles as a makeshift blanket during naptime. The one highlighted comes in sizes XXS-XXL and 2X-3X.
I will also layer a t-shirt over a sleeveless maxi for extra warmth–and to make my bag a little lighter. (Here are some tips on how to layer clothes.)
Shop: Amazon
Vionic Rest Kirra Backstrap Sandal
For shoes, I will wear some strappy sandals that have a pop of color, like silver or metallic but can still act as a neutral. These ones from Vionic are sleek, yet their orthotic arch support makes them perfect for walking around at my intended destination.
Want more sandal options? check out the comparison review of the Naot Sabrina sandals vs. the Vionic Kirra sandals!
Shop: Nordstrom | Bloomingdale’s | Longchamp
Longchamp ‘Le Pliage’ Tote
I love a great handbag, and the Longchamp tote has that durable nylon, good storage space (I use a purse organizer), and is super stylish!
Want something similar but more budget minded? This post highlights bags similar to the Longchamp tote!
Here’s the full example of the outfit, with some suggested color ideas:
Jacket | Dress | Tee | Tote | Earrings | Packing Cube | Eye Mask | Sandal
Lounge-Chic Outfit
When planning your outfit for a long travel day, the focus should be comfort, but you also want to put a little effort into looking polished and presentable, which is why the third outfit is a nice balance of lounge pants and some fun contrast with a leather backpack. Here’s a quick breakdown of the essential items:
Shop Sizes 0-20: Lululemon
Lululemon Pants
These lounge pants make up the perfect laid-back plane outfit with style. They have a drawcord that moves with you, clever hidden pockets to store small items, and a waistband that’s soft against skin. I love them! (and so do many TFG readers). Lululemon offers these pants in sizes 0-20.
Shop Sizes XXS-3X: Nordstrom
Madewell Cotton V-Neck Pocket Tee
I know I can’t go wrong with a comfy tee, and the Madewell V-neck t-shirt is a favorite. It’s soft, modern, and uber versatile!
You can grab Black, White, or Gray in sizes XXS-3X, or Ashen Silver in sizes XXS-3X as well!
Leave the logo tees at home and discover our readers’ classic picks for the best t-shirts for travel!
Shop: Amazon
Dr. Scholl’s Nova Slip-Ons
Slip-ons will forever be a great idea to wear on a long-haul flight. I can take them on/off at security easily and my feet feel encased in total comfort.
Add the ultra popular Bombas no show socks if you plan to fly with sneakers.
Remember: all of these items can easily be re-worn when you get to your destination.
Here are some cute and comfortable slip on sneakers – an easy airport option!
Shop: Amazon
Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack
A quick summary on why I love the Rebecca Julian backpack: it looks attractive, it’s spacious enough for all my plane essentials (and when I go sightseeing), it has a secret pocket for my passport or wallet, and I’m happy wearing it with all my outfits while traveling. A win-win!
This backpack drums up so many conversations with TFG readers, we devoted a review to it!
Here’s the full example of the outfit, with some suggested color ideas:
Jacket | Tag | Tee | Pants | Scarf | Backpack | Sneaker
Urban-Chic Outfit
When you’re planning what to wear on a plane, keep in mind that it’s best to avoid tight-fitting clothing while sitting for extended periods of time. Speaking of tight fitting, my fourth outfit does consist of jeans but they are stretchy and I pair it with a cozy cardigan, and ankle boots. Here’s a quick breakdown of the essential items:
Shop Sizes 0-18: Amazon | Moosejaw | Backcountry | Prana
prAna Kayla Jean
If you like to wear denim, opt for a looser-fitting boyfriend jean or a stretchy comfortable pair such as this style by prAna. They won’t constrict movement on board but can we wearable for sightseeing or dressed up with flats for a night out.
You can grab these jeans in sizes 0-18.
Shop: Amazon
Floria Open Front Drape Ribbed Cardigan
A draped cardigan is versatile as a cover for warmth on the plane, but to add some interest to an outfit once you’ve landed. To layer, I add a soft, comfy tee and the one I wear time again is my J. Crew 365 t-shirt!
Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: J.Crew
J. Crew 365 Stretch T-Shirt
Besides the Madewell I mentioned above, the J.Crew tee is widely popular with TFG’s and I agree! It works as a layer or on its own. Comes in sizes XXS-XXL.
This comfy and versatile tee has its own review too—take a look if you want to know why it’s great for travel!
Shop: Amazon
Blondo Villa Waterproof Ankle Boot
Always try to wear your heaviest or bulkiest shoes on the plane; it may be your boots. I swear by Blondo Villa ankle boots. They are so easy to wear on a plane and are sturdy against rain, while looking absolutely chic!
When flying, you can always slip them off and wear compression socks to help soothe your legs for the duration of the flight.
The Blondo Villa ankle boots are such a reader and editor favorite, we did a review on them!
Shop: Amazon
Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bucket Bag
If I have a separate backpack with me, I’d take some that’s more like a purse. The Travelon bucket bag is sleek and super functional. With locking compartments, a slash resistant body and shoulder strap, and RFID blocking technology, I feel safe when disembarking, and can use this as my main purse.
You can also look for more ideas in our best crossbody purses post!
Here’s the full example of the outfit, with some suggested color ideas:
Cardigan | Hand Cream | Tee | Tag | Crossbody | Boots | Scarf | Pants
Cozy-Chic Outfit
You’ll notice that in all of these outfits, the legs are covered. That’s for two reasons: airports and planes are always cold, and you can keep your luggage light by wearing some of your bulkier clothing on the plane. Hence, my fifth outfit entails just that, a jacket to snuggle up in, along with comfortable leggings, and must-have flats. Here’s a quick breakdown of the essential items:
J.Jill Wearever Black Slim-Leg Pants | Sizes: XS-XL and 1XL-4XL
J.Jill Slim Leg Wearever Pant
This ensemble, with easy to wear pull up pants by J.Jill, is the perfect alternative to leggings or jeans. Stretchy but tailored, these pants will get a lot of use when you arrive at your destination.
Voted by TFG readers as some of the most comfortable dress pants for traveling. One reader shares that her pair is “super comfortable,” while another one says that she simply “loves them.”
Shop Sizes S-3XL: Amazon
Floria Ruched Draped Top
I like to pair this with a stylish ruched drape top that’s comfortable and soft. And I can pair that later with other bottoms.
This blouse by Floria is available in sizes S-3XL.
Shop S-3X: Amazon
Cole Haan Packable Hooded Rain Jacket
I pair those above items with a packable Cole Haan rain coat that has a cute bow on the back, a removable hood, and a trench coat look that’s classic!
The highly popular coat comes in regular and petite sizing, from XS-XL, and in plus sizes 1X-3X.
Find even more lightweight rain jacket options at this post!
Shop: Amazon
Aerosoles High Bet Ballet Flat
To finish off my cozy outfit, I wear Aerosoles flats with chic medallion hardware that has their popular memory foam insole and a soft nubuck leather. The perfect combo of fashion and comfort!
With all these pieces combined, you’ll have the most chic yet comfortable outfit for long haul red eye flights!
Here’s the full example of the outfit, with some suggested color ideas:
Pillow & Mask | Tag | Flat | Bag | Raincoat | Top | Pants
What are your tips on what to wear on a plane? Share in the comments!
For more ideas and tips on air travel, please read:
- Best Real People Airplane Outfit Ideas from Europe
- Airplane Essentials: 10 Items to Make Flights More Enjoyable
- 10 Airplane Beauty Tips: How to Look Good After a Long Haul Flight
- Take Flight in these Fashionable Airplane Outfits for Fall
LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!
We hope you liked this post on what to wear on a plane. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
Author Bio: Niki is an interior designer and artist from Louisiana. In addition to her design work, she writes for local and online publications sharing her experiences and passion for travel. Niki is currently adding stamps to her passport while building her design practice, Niki Landry Designs.
Hi Nikki,
Are there any plans to update this article with links that work? Many of these styles are no longer available and I’m sure there are current options that you’ve found since? I realize that links get outdated quickly and that’s the issue with great/helpful articles like this but an update every few years would be so helpful and appreciated.
Hi Linda, thank you for your comment! We are currently working to update all our articles to give you the best up to date advice and content, hope this helps. Happy travels!
How about for business trips? I hit the ground running and leggings just aren’t an option. Do you know of any decently priced work-wear and comfy flats that are good for travel?
Hi Bee, thank you for reaching out! Have a look our round-up of comfortable ballet flats according to our readers: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-cute-and-comfortable-ballet-flats-for-travel/ If you are traveling for a business trip, you may also find our articles about business travel tips for women helpful: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/business-travel/ Hope this helps. Safe travels!
Everlane modern loafers are stylish, and bonus, comfortable!
I am going to D.C and I do not know want to wear on the plane. What would be the best thing to wear on the plane, and still look good?
Hi Sam, have a look at this post for ideas for fashionable airplane outfits: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/airplane-outfits/ Hope you find it helpful! Have an awesome trip! 🙂
Hi Alex thank you for the advice! However, I am still a bit stuck in what to wear tomorrow (1 hour and 50 minutes long). I normally wear leggings so if you haven’t replied today or tomorrow morning (I don’t mind I am late anyway) I will wear them. Sophie X
Hi Sophie, for some other ideas for outfits for flying in, have a look at this post: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/airplane-outfit/ The best tip is to wear what you feel comfortable wearing!! Have an amazing trip! 🙂
I’m cold at the best of times so on planes I’m freezing so I wear lots of light, long sleeved, crew neck layers and a light hoodie. I have a four-pocket jacket which holds all my essentials and even my Kindle! For my next long-haul flight I’m planning to wear my heavier shoes to travel in but clip my Crocs flats to the outside of my bag so I can slip them on and off for walking about the plane. For Christmas I got a lovely purple-check blanket scarf which will do as both a scarf and a blanket!
Hi Catherine, that is great advice, thank you for sharing it! 🙂
What would be a good travel outfit if you are going to Aruba in July?
Hi Kelly, you can find some tips in our Aruba article: https://travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-aruba/
I find I usually wear jeans on the plane, as they are usually my heaviest clothin item. I would love to wear the leggings outfit above, but I haven’t quite yet figured out how to lighten my load when packing jeans.
That’s a good point! If I’m tight with weight in my suitcase I’ll wear the jeans on the plane. If I have a little room, I’ll go for the leggings 😉
Thank you for this most informative article. I leave South Africa in a couple of weeks for South America and New Zealand.
Hi Daphne, take a look at these posts for your trip:
https://travelfashiongirl.com/category/packing-2/travel-packing-lists/south-america-packing-lists/
https://travelfashiongirl.com/backpacking-new-zealand-packing-list/
Yoga pants or stretch denim – anything stretchy is comfortable.
And always a shawl that can double as a scarf, and triple as another blanket layer on areas of your body that get particularly cold (e.g. knees or neck).
Great tip! Thanks Cynthia 🙂
I also find comfortable clothing key on long flights (well any flights really!). Thanks for the suggestions
Comfort is key!
I found this post particularly interesting because I have two big trips this summer. I have one east to west coast Canada early morning flight, and another red-eye to the UK. To endure these long and uncomfortable flights these suggestions have been very helpful and I’ve already made a few purchases based on this list. I also came across HUE Travelista leggings which have side pockets that can be added to the list. Thanks!
So glad you found this post useful Tanya 🙂 Those leggings sound awesome too!
So glad I read this! Preparing for return flights to Dublin from Vancouver in January with a connection so this is going to come in really handy along with the Winter Signature Essentials packing list.
Glad you found it useful 🙂 Have an awesome time!
Having a few go-to pieces for airline travel always makes me feel like there’s one less thing I have to worry about when traveling. Jeggings, check. Cute cardigan, check. Comfy tshirt, check. Least uncomforatble bra I own, check. 🙂
Exactly! It makes all the difference 🙂
I love cargo pants. and lots of pockets
cargo pants allow me to have papers that are needed right at hand . My top be it a vest of a light jacket needs pocket as I listen to my device . comfy slip off shoes. for very long trips a large scarf for a blanket
Love this! Pockets can be super handy for holding important stuff!