What to Wear to the Airport

When you’ve traveled by airplane enough times, you start to realize how important your choice of clothing is. It’s not because you need to be the most fashionable or best dressed, but because you want to be comfortable and feel put together. Between trips to Paris and the European Christmas markets I attend annually, I’ve tested plenty of airport outfits over the years. I have an ever growing airport outfit selection that keeps me feeling stylish and comfortable, especially on the way there. Having a go-to travel outfit takes one more decision off your plate on travel day. You’ll thank yourself for thinking about this ahead of time as you’re rushing to the airport and trying to remember where your passport is packed.

The outfit you choose to wear to the airport is way more than style. You’re going to be walking a lot, going through security, sitting on a flight for hours, and then finally arriving at your destination. What you wear can feel like an important decision, and if you’re anything like I am, it’s one that I don’t have prior thought about. Finding a balance between comfort and looking nice is key, and I’ll help you figure some of that out.

If you’re taking some flights for the first time in a while or still haven’t nailed the right combination, I’ve shared my magic sauce right here. This is from years of trial and error, and I’m excited to help you accomplish the trifecta of comfort, practicality, and style.

Moving about easily on the day of departure starts with the right airport outfit. While it won’t cure your jet lag, it will give you comfort knowing that you put your best foot forward for your trip. Travel days can be unpredictable, but choosing the right airport outfit is one thing you can control. It’s a good idea to have as much thought into the small things as you can prior, and as silly as it may sound, what you wear to the airport can affect your experience.

Focusing on breathable fabrics, pieces that are easy to layer, and footwear that is comfortable for long walks is key. You’ll reduce the risk of discomfort, being cold, blisters, and the like. When you’re on a long haul flight, having some layers will help you avoid getting really cold, which happens to me every single time. A thoughtfully planned outfit will assist in your comfort throughout the whole journey, while giving you a nice, polished appearance. That’s a win in my books.

Just off the Plane!

Simply put, a good airport outfit is one that gives you comfort, is practical, and easy to layer. Temperatures go up and down, and I guarantee after being herded through security you’re going to wish you had nothing but your birthday suit on, feeling like a common criminal at times. Moments later, you are shivering at the gate or in the plane cabin. It really keeps things spicy, and gives you multiple looks throughout one experience. Keep the humor and lightness, otherwise you will drive yourself mad.

Some things to look for in a good airport outfit are as follows:

• Breathable fabrics like cotton, bamboo, wool, or even performance materials
• Stretchy waistbands and flex in the fit
• Nonrestrictive clothing that allows you to move around easily
• Layers that can be added or subtracted in the trip
• Shoes that slip on and off easily (please, no Doc Martens or the like)
• Travel accessories that enhance the comfort of long flights

I’m not into tight, stiff, or complicated clothing. Travel days are hard enough, and we all need clothing that works for us and not against us.

This is not going to be a dissertation of exactly what to wear. It is likely that you have items in your closet that would be perfectly functional for a trip on a plane. I’ll lay out a few ideas for you so you know where my head is and what I either wear or recommend wearing, and you can take it from there.

Matching Knit Travel Set

One of the most popular ways to show up to the airport these days is in the matchy match sets, which I’ll admit I like, but likely will not sport myself because I am, in general, not a matchy person like that. So many companies are putting out these sets, and I’ll admit to buying a top or a bottom, but I can’t find myself buying both. This is the most no-brainer solution to comfortable clothing on your day of travel, and if you like this look, I fully support it. You’re going to look put together, intentional, and you’ll be comfortable. It’s like wearing pajamas that are actually for outside the house.

Leggings and an Oversized Button Down

I feel like everyone probably owns a pair of leggings, whether they are fake leather ones, workout style, or a dressier version. Pair those with a white or blue button down shirt that hangs over the booty, and you’ve got yourself a practical travel outfit. Make sure the shoes are comfortable sneakers, and don’t forget your tote bag since you won’t have pockets in those leggings. It’s a great option for ease and comfort.

Wide Leg Pants and a Fitted T-Shirt

Am I obsessed with my wide leg travel pants from OGLmove? Quite possibly, yes. They are sleek looking wide leg pants that even have belt loops, and they feel like cozy pajamas. These pants don’t wrinkle so you can be assured you’ll show up at your destination looking put together and like you made an effort. A simple white tee matches perfectly to complete the outfit, and a good pair of sneakers tops it off. You’ve got a great combination of comfort and style with this outfit.

Athleisure Set

Another matching set idea, the athleisure craze has yet to go out of style. Get yourself a cute zip-up jacket and matching pants and you’re ready to roll into the airport like you own the place. A good option of choice is moisture-wicking fabrics that will keep you comfortable even if you have a delayed flight or someone spills water on you mid-air. It happens! If you want to go all in for the look, bring your favorite baseball cap. People might think you’re famous for the effortless look.

Jeans, T-Shirt, and Blazer

Sporting a blazer makes everything you do look more polished, especially on a travel day. When I see someone in a blazer, I’m always impressed, especially when it’s paired with a tee that says something smart or is plain white. Sneakers or loafers with socks makes it the chef’s kiss, and you’ll roll into whatever new city with the right look and the right attitude. Go straight into a meeting or a dinner in exactly that. You’re ready for anything that’s thrown at you during your travel day.

Soft Joggers and a Sweatshirt

Most of my trips back home from Europe involve exactly this outfit. I’m usually exhausted, so I make the plan before I leave to be comfortable so I can work nicely on the plane without feeling restricted. I absolutely love a pair of joggers that lets me move about, and one that has pockets in particular. The sweatshirt I typically take is one that is the same color, like all black or the like, and has a front pouch so I can stick things in there if needed. It’s not the most polished look, but it’s extremely practical on airport days.

Maxi Dress and Denim Jacket

If you’re going to wear a dress on a flight, make sure it’s a long one so your legs aren’t touching the gross plane seats. A loose fitting dress can be a great choice, especially for warmer destinations, but don’t forget the denim jacket for the likely cooler flight. It’s a pretty effortless look that appears to be effortful. That’s the key, and you’ll feel good when traipsing around the airport or your final destination.

Black Ponte Pants and a Sweater

Black ponte pants are becoming a problem for me because I want ALL OF THEM. They look so good on, and they are so comfortable! Opting this style pants over leggings is a decision I’d make every time, as you always look more structured and intentional. When flying internationally, the combination of comfort and style is important so you land in your city feeling like a fish in water, not out of water. A fitted sweater ties it up like a bow, and you’ve got yourself a perfect airport outfit.

Me and My Neck Pillow on a Long Haul Flight

Comfort is a major factor of consideration on any travel day, and I’ll tell you from experience it’s a lot to think about. I’m going to reduce some of the hot points below so you have a much more comfortable and easy travel experience. Learn from those who have gone before you, and that might be me!

Dress for Comfort and Changing Temperatures

When you’re in an airport and then a plane for a long time, the last thing you want is discomfort with your clothing. Often, the experience of flying can be disorienting and sometimes uncomfortable, as you’re at the mercy of so many factors that don’t involve your own planning. You can still be stylish and comfortable when you dress for travel days, which wasn’t always the case.

Soft knits, flexible pants, relaxed tops, and comfortable shoes are some of the keys to making your days in an airport more palatable. Remembering layers, like a sweater, jacket, or coat are important for when you get chilly. If you’re on a long haul flight, loose-fitting outfits aren’t only for comfort, they also help reduce stiffness from sitting for extended periods.

Stay Hydrated Throughout Your Flight

Drinking water before and during your flight is a great way to help reduce jet lag and feeling like garbage on the other side of the journey. Airplane cabins are dry, and that leaves you feeling tired and dehydrated. I love taking a reusable water bottle with me and filling it up at the airport before boarding. Yes, you will have to pee more, but trust me on this, it helps greatly when you land and don’t have to sleep for two days to recover. Also, avoid alcohol consumption if you really want to do yourself a favor.

Pack the Right Comfort Accessories

Outside of clothing, there are a few things I like to have with me all the time when I am flying. Taking an eye mask for better sleep is a great way to get some shut eye during the flight. I won’t leave without my travel pillow either. Even though they give you a small pillow on long flights, I still like to have my own. Noise canceling headphones drown out the jerks that listen to videos with no headphones of their own, or a baby crying. I can also plug into the flight entertainment if I so choose, or watch my iPad with them. My power bank allows me to work on the way there or on the way home without the fear of running out of battery.

My preference is an aisle seat because I like access to use the bathroom and get up, but if I am in a window seat, I can lean against the side and snooze away with all my well thought out accessories. You don’t need every travel gadget marketed to you, but these are a few that I can’t travel without after years of experience.

Bring Your Own Snacks

Bringing my own snacks, and sometimes even sandwiches, is something I have gotten into the habit of doing when I travel because the absolute last thing I want to do is get sick from nasty plane food. I am known for shoving a peanut butter sandwich down during my layover to Europe, giving my teeth a brush in the airport bathroom, and boarding my plane with a full stomach and clean teeth.

Some of the items I recommend taking on a flight are: nuts, fruit, protein bars, crackers, and naturally some chocolate or something else sweet. This is helpful if you are a food goblin like I am and like snacking at random while in the air. It also helps if you happen to get delayed and didn’t budget for expensive airport food. Snacks are truly the way to go, trust me on this one.

Get Up and Move During Long Flights

Moving around a little bit during long flights will help in many ways. I’m not telling you to do a headstand where the flight attendants are preparing food, but walking the aisle and maybe a little bend over stretch by the bathroom could help you prevent a blood clot or stiffness. Some people like to wear compression socks, and while I do it sometimes, I also forget them so I just get up and give my body a good stretch.

Prepare for Better Sleep

I have a whole sleep system down for my overnight flights. It involves wiping down the tray table with a sanitizing wipe and using it as a surface for my pillow, where I can rest my head nicely. If there is a lot of noise, some canceling headphones are in order. For any light distractions, I have my eye mask. A blanket is an absolute must, as I use it every single time so I don’t turn into an icicle It gets cold on those flights. Sleeping will contribute to less jet lag, so do your best to prep for some sleep on the flight.

Monochromatic Outfit

The best airport outfit is one that allows you to focus less on your clothing and more on the adventure ahead of you. A little planning goes a long way, and it extends beyond what you’re wearing. Pack your water bottle, bring a few snacks, don’t forget your sleep essentials, and you’ll be setting yourself up for a much more comfortable travel day.

Planning for the travel day goes a long way, and it goes beyond the clothing. Remember to bring your water bottle, your snacks, and your sleep gear so you maximize on preparedness and comfort. It makes all the difference between a stressful travel experience and one where you feel like you nailed it.

If you are preparing for your very first flight, be sure to check out my guide with my best tips for first time flyers to help you feel confident and prepared before you head to the airport. For the best travel bags, here is my list of favorites for an amazing experience every time.

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