Your travel gears are important when you’re planning a trip. Who doesn't want to strike a balance between comfort and style? While you don’t need to dress like a superstar, it’s a good idea to think about what to wear on a flight.
This is especially true if you have a long flight to survive. Other than travel hacks, with long travel times, you also want breathable, comfortable, and slick travel clothes..
Keeping this in mind, you may wonder: What should I wear on a plane?
Well, you need to consider a few things before deciding what to wear on a plane. For example, is it an overnight flight? Also, do you think you’ll need specific gears during your trip that you could wear on the plane too, like waterproof travel shoes for example?
Let’s explore some essential travel gear options for both men and women. In this article, you’ll find useful tips to help you figure out what to wear on a plane.
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Being Practical vs. Being Stylish
If you have traveled frequently, you would know how uncomfortable flights can be.
You need to deal with all sorts of frustrations, including:
- Long delays
- Limited legroom
- Temperature fluctuations
- Possible turbulence
- Sick passengers
- Crying babies
The list is endless. Consequently, because of all these discomforts, your choice of attire may lean towards a simple pair of sweats along with a soft, worn-out neck pillow.
● Being Stylish
However, there are many reasons to look more presentable during flights. For instance, if you’re traveling for work, you may encounter your workplace superiors during the flight. Wearing sweats in front of your boss hardly seems like it would score points.
Additionally, even if you’re going on vacation, it’s still a good idea to look stylish. In this day and age, you need to be camera-ready at all times. Travel selfies are all the rage on Instagram and Snapchat.
If you’re active on social media, your followers may expect a check-in at the airport.
In short, balancing style is essential in picking out your travel gear.
Don’t worry, though. Being more stylish doesn’t mean you have to compromise on comfort. You’ll find out more as we get into our tips for the best travel gear for men and women.
● Being Practical
As mentioned, when you’re traveling, you need to keep a few things in mind.. The best move is to pick your attire based on practicality and aesthetic.
Here are a few questions to consider as you decide what to wear on a plane:
1- Where Are You Going?
Think about how hot or cold your destination is. For example, England always has a lot of rainfall. If you’re going to a similar place, you probably want to choose clothes that’ll fit this weather. Some waterproof travel shoes, like Loom, are very comfy and you’ll definitely need them outside the plane too!
2- How Long Is the Flight?
With long flights, you need to pick your clothes wisely as you can't change them till you get off the plane. Most likely, by the end, you’ll be sweaty and grumpy. Therefore, it’s better to wear breathable fabric.
3- Are You Going With Someone?
Are you going alone or with your family? This question mostly concerns parents and pet owners. If you’re at the risk of being spit on/peed on, your clothes should be easy to clean with the limited resources available on a plane.
Best Travel Gear for Men
Men’s fashion is quite easy to style. Whether you’re a businessman or a nomad, you probably have a bunch of fashion staples in your closet.
For men, fashion staples range from good suits to sleek long-sleeved shirts to well-fitted jeans.
Generally, men’s clothes are always comfortable. Suits and ties are the exceptions, but you’re hardly going to wear a suit on a plane. If you have a business meeting right as you land, just keep a suit in your carry-on (in a zip-up hanger to prevent wrinkling).
The point is, men should coordinate layers to wear on a plane. Now, what do we mean by that?
Well, let’s go step-by-step:
● Shirts
Firstly, you must pick out your shirt. As mentioned above, pick something with breathable fabric as airplane temperature fluctuates a lot.
Therefore, it’s a good idea to wear cotton or wool. Cotton and polyester blends are also very stretchable and sweat-absorbant.
However, your shirt should not be:
- Denim
- Nylon
- A spandex blend
All these fabrics retain sweat and make your clothes stick to your skin.
Overall, the shirt style depends on you. Be mindful, though. The shirt determines the rest of the outfit.
You can pick a casual short-sleeved T-shirt or a comfy button-down.
● Pants
Once you’ve picked out your shirt, match it with some pants. You can select anything you find comfortable.
If you’re wearing jeans, make sure they’re not too tight or too loose. It’s essential to get the right fit. Taller men look good in slim cuts. Alternatively, shorter men should opt for regular/broader leg cuts.
Moreover, if you don’t want to wear jeans, you can choose:
- Khakis
- Casual trousers
- Activewear sweats
Activewear is a notable fashion trend these days. If you’re wearing activewear, simply make sure your clothes match (the shirt, pants, and jacket). However, to reiterate, it’s best not to wear activewear on work trips.
Lastly, when picking out pants, choose something with lots of pockets. It’ll come in handy.
● Sweaters/Hoodies
Now, it’s time for the layers. When you’re traveling, you want your clothes to be as versatile as possible.
Wearing layers helps you prepare for anything. If you spill something on your shirt, simply put on a sweater vest. Or if you’re cold, you can wear a pullover hoodie.
Contrast your sweater/hoodie with your shirt. If you’re wearing a light-colored shirt, darker colored sweaters look good and vice versa.
● Jackets or Sports Coats
Are you going for a business-casual look? If yes, sports coats are an excellent choice. Sports coats make casual shirts look more professional.
Moreover, they elevate your look, making it more high-fashion. A sports coat paired with a black shirt and jeans is a classic GQ style.
You can even wear a denim jacket as they’re warm and durable.
However, be mindful that the fabric isn’t too stiff.
● Footwear
Next, it’s time to select your travel footwear. Don’t ditch this step because any type of traveling requires a lot of walking.
As a rule of thumb, travel shoes should be:
- Slip-on
- Lightweight
- Waterproof
- Comfortably fitted
Stay away from anything with laces as they can be hard to deal with during your flight. The best idea is to try something like Loom’s waterproof travel shoes.
They’re weather-resistant, sleek, and functional. You can easily pair them with both casual and business-casual looks.
● Socks
Don’t forget to wear socks as you’ll be taking off your shoes at the security check. You wouldn’t want your bare feet touching the airport floor, right?
Picking out socks is simple. You just have to match them with the color of your shoes.
● Accessories
Lastly, you have to choose your travel accessories. We recommend picking out a sleek pair of sunglasses. Everyone looks sleek in sunglasses.
Moreover, you can also opt for a men’s satchel or travel bag. However, as accessories enhance your look, make sure to match them with the color scheme of your outfit.
Best Travel Gear for Women
Unlike men’s fashion, women’s fashion leaves more room for creativity. If you’re a woman looking to travel in style, there are many things you can do.
However, regardless of gender, the need for practicality remains the same. In other words, it is important to layer your clothes while traveling in cold weather. If you tend to get cold, don’t skip the layering part.
Here is how women should pick their travel outfits:
● Shirts/Blouses/Dresses
Again, you should consider the weather while deciding on what to wear. However, make sure the fabric is breathable. Similar to men’s fashion, it’s more suitable to wear cotton or wool.
T-shirts are the most comfortable choice. Although you can also choose an elegant blouse, make sure to coordinate the top with the bottom. To elevate the look, contrast the top with the pants and the pullover (if you have one).
The next option is to go for a dress, but only if it is easy for you to manage. Your comfort should be your priority.
Keep in mind that dresses are hard to walk in, and wearing them all day causes chafing. Maxi dresses are doable but pair them with proper stockings.
● Stretchable Bottoms
You can choose any type of bottoms to pair with your top. You can even go for a skirt or shorts if the temperature isn't too cold for you.
However, the trousers make more sense here. Every woman has her favorite pair of jeans. You can tuck your shirt inside high-waisted jeans. This classic look will make your legs look longer and your outfit more fashionable.
Apart from jeans, you can also opt for:
- Palazzo pants
- Chinos
- Leggings
- Harem trousers
Just make sure the pants are soft and comfy.
● Outer Layers
From sweaters to cardigans to shawls, you have many options to complete your overall outfit. Whatever you choose, follow the rule of three. What does this mean?
Well, it means you must match three points in your outfit to create cohesiveness.
For example, you can wear a white shirt with black pants, a blazer, and a bag. The white will stand out, and even if you didn’t intend it, your outfit would be more symmetrical.
● Jackets/Coats
Whether you take an extra jacket or coat depends on where you’re going. Don’t take a coat unless you’re traveling to or from a cold place.
If you must take a coat, you can opt for a classic trench style. Trench coats are very versatile and can go with any outfit.
Jackets, on the other hand, are easier to carry in your hand.
For jackets, you can opt for:
- Denim
- Leather
- Cotton/Polyester blends
Jackets come in handy no matter what. If nothing else, you can fold your jacket into a makeshift pillow during your flight. Alternatively, if you have a hoodie, you can use it to cover your eyes while sleeping.
● Travel Shoes
When you’re traveling, stay away from complicated shoes like laced sneakers and high heels. Instead, get slip-on travel shoes, which are easy to take off at security.
Moreover, closed shoes are better than open-toed shoes like wedges and flip flops.
Lucky for you, Loom also makes waterproof travel shoes for women. They’re impact-resistant and nicely cushioned with stretchy, breathable fabric.
When buying travel shoes, look for these qualities.
● Socks/Stockings
If you’re wearing closed shoes, it’s only logical to wear socks. We suggest wearing compression socks or stockings.
When you’re sitting for a long time in a flight, your feet may fall asleep. Compression socks and stockings fix this problem by increasing blood circulation.
You don’t need a doctor’s prescription to wear compression socks. Also, don’t worry. You can buy compression socks and stockings in different colors and sizes. They’re not dull and generic like you’re probably thinking.
● Accessories
Unlike men, women have a lot more options in terms of accessories. From sunglasses to jewelry to handbags to scarves, you can use little things to enhance your outfit.
A simple pair of earrings can bring a lot of depth to your look. However, avoid wearing heavy jewelry. You wouldn’t want your ears to hurt 10 minutes into the flight.
Small, understated jewelry is a better option here. However, your bag needs to be big and sturdy. As a carry-on, a handbag is a place where you pack things overflowing from your suitcase.
Lastly, scarves are great for people who get cold quickly. However, make sure to match the scarf to your color scheme.
Scarves that clash with your outfit completely ruin the look.
Conclusion
There you have it. These were our tips for picking out what to wear on a plane. As you can see, comfort and style go hand in hand. You don’t have to compromise one for the other.
When you’re traveling, try to make an effort on your outfit. While traveling comes with several worries, it always feels good to dress your best. As this article tells you, you can wear functional travel gear like waterproof travel shoes and still look stylish.
We hope you find these ideas on what to wear on an overnight flight helpful.
