7 Must-Have Clothing Items for Flying Long Distance

Hopping on a plane headed towards your next destination should bring you nothing but sheer excitement and joy.  However, flying long distance could prove to be fairly uncomfortable if you’re not wearing the best travel clothes for the occasion.

When you’re looking to optimize your wardrobe for your busy jet-setting lifestyle, here are seven must-have clothing pieces that any frequent long-distance traveler should pack in their luggage.

A Suitable Jacket or Long Coat

While wearing a sleek jacket, like a blazer or long coat, is a quick and efficient way of looking classically chic in no time, it also offers a few other benefits when worn whilst traveling.

A long coat can be used to cover more comfortable, casual clothes underneath, giving you the option of staying in leisure wear for your journey without feeling frumpy.

Depending on the average temperatures where you’re going, it’s best to choose an option that’s easy to layer, and made of a lightweight to medium-weight fabric like a cotton/poly blend that’s easy to fold.

Otherwise, for colder climates, opt for a wool fabric that can keep your warm, either simply for the arrival or to keep you cozy in the frigid plane cabin.

Trousers/Pants that Stretch for Better Flexibility

When you’re seated for long periods of time, dealing with too tight jeans or button closures digging into your waistline can be endlessly frustrating and uncomfortable.

It’s best to choose trousers that are made of a stretchable or loose fabric, such as palazzo pants, leggings or yoga pants, wide-leg trousers and more.

Athletic wear has become trendy and more wearable in public as everyday clothing, so this is a possible option that can work for both style and functionality.

Wearing pants instead of shorts or a skirt can also keep your bare legs covered in case of cooler temperatures and unsavory seating conditions.

A Basic Tee or Lightweight Top that’s Multi-Purpose

There are few items more versatile than your basic t-shirt. It can be dressed up or down, it can be worn under other clothing without looking like it’s been reworn countless times, and it remains effortlessly cozy if you choose one that’s made of a soft, breathable fabric.

Meanwhile, it also works as a great layering piece for dealing with ever-changing temperatures from one place to another.

Blouses and vests also present a more sophisticated choice as travel clothes without being over-the-top for a plane ride.

A Soft Sweater or Long Cardigan is your Cabin Best Friend

Speaking of versatility, including a warm, soft sweater or long cardigan is an essential part of the best travel clothes manual. Why? Because these amazing pieces are functional at both keeping you comfortable for flights that can last six hours or longer in a chilly airplane cabin, and also being used for other purposes.

They can be utilized as a makeshift pillow for better sleep on the plane or while you wait in the airport during a layover, or even as a light blanket to drape over your legs if the cabin temperature drops.

These items can also make you look more refined than if you were simply wearing a hoodie, but any of the above work just fine.

A Pair of Health-Conscious Compression Socks

Not having proper attire for long distance flights can be agonizing, and the worst of it comes when you don’t have a pair of warm, comfortable socks.

Many health professionals recommend wearing compression socks that are designed to stimulate blood flow in your lower limbs, ensuring that you don’t become more susceptible to deep vein thrombosis after sitting for long periods.

While cotton/poly blends work best, a heavier wool variety could be more desirable for keeping your feet covered and resisting odor.

Dependable Footwear that Breathes and Bends

For some fliers, sneakers are always the go-to choice for long distance anything, whether you’re walking for miles or staying seated in place for long periods of time.

Other fliers sometimes require more flexibility with their footwear, opting for soft flats that are easy to remove and light enough to feel as though you aren’t wearing shoes at all. Whatever you choose, picking a comfortable pair of footwear is crucial for long-haul flights.

A Fancy Pashmina or Scarf Adds Chic Style and Comfort

Dual-purpose travel clothes are always the way to go, as discussed multiple times in this list. One more of those versatile items is a chic and sophisticated scarf or pashmina.

Offered in a variety of colors, patterns, sizes and fabrics, one of these can offer plenty of smart outfit options while also minimizing the chill around your neck as you fly.

Wrap Up

 The best travel clothes don’t have to be too expensive or bulky in size. They simply have to keep you comfortable for the long hours you’ll spend on the plane before arriving at your intended destination.

With that in mind, wearing or packing these seven must-haves can greatly improve your long-haul airplane experience.