What to Wear on Long Flights: Stylish Yet Comfortable Travel Outfits That Actually Work 👗✈️
- Farah Ehab
- May 22
- 12 min read
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🌟 Hey there, fellow adventurers! I'm Farah, a passionate solo traveller and the heart behind The Egyptian Traveler. Join me on my journey as I explore the wonders of Egypt and beyond, uncovering hidden gems, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable experiences. Whether I'm wandering through ancient ruins, tasting local delicacies, or sharing travel tips, I’m here to inspire you to embark on your own incredible adventures. Let’s make travel fun and full of stories together! 🌍✈️
There’s something about long-haul flights that can feel exciting and exhausting all at once — the anticipation of a new destination, the dreamy playlists, the in-flight movies… and then the uncomfortable clothes that make you wish you could teleport instead. I’ve learned the hard way that what you wear on a plane can make or break the journey. Whether it’s itchy seams, tight waistbands, or freezing cabin temperatures, the wrong outfit turns travel day into a drag — and let’s be honest, no one wants to land feeling like a wrinkled mess. ✈️
As a solo traveller, comfort isn’t just a luxury — it’s essential. When I’m hopping between time zones, navigating unfamiliar airports, or figuring out train connections after a red-eye flight, I need to feel grounded and confident in what I’m wearing. There’s no travel buddy to hold my bag while I fix my top or dig for an extra layer — it’s all on me. That’s why I’ve become obsessed with curating the perfect long-haul outfit: something that keeps me cosy, doesn’t restrict movement, and still looks effortlessly put together when I step off the plane.
So if you’ve ever found yourself shivering at 35,000 feet or sweating in synthetic fabrics before takeoff — you’re not alone. This guide is packed with practical tips and stylish solutions for what to wear on a long flight, especially for solo adventurers like me who want to look good, feel amazing, and hit the ground running. Because comfortable doesn’t have to mean sloppy, and stylish doesn’t have to mean stiff. Let’s find that sweet spot together. 💫
✈️ Need help booking your next flight? Check out my Ultimate Guide to Booking Flights for the best platforms and tips to find unbeatable deals and smooth travel experiences!
1. The Golden Rule: Prioritise Comfort Without Sacrificing Style ✨🧣
When you're packing for a long-haul flight, comfort should always come first — but that doesn’t mean you need to abandon your sense of style at the boarding gate. Fabrics like cotton, modal, bamboo, and jersey are the real MVPs in the sky. They’re soft, breathable, stretchy, and forgiving, making them ideal for sitting still for hours, walking through terminals, or even curling up for a mid-flight nap. Avoid stiff jeans, itchy knits, or anything that digs into your waist. Your body will thank you at cruising altitude.
The key to looking effortlessly chic while staying comfortable is finding the sweet spot between loungewear and “airport runway”. Think tailored joggers, flowy trousers, oversized hoodies, and stylish jumpers layered over a clean basic tee. I love pairing comfy bottoms with a loose yet flattering top, throwing on a scarf or chunky cardigan to add dimension — it’s practical, cute, and ideal for long stretches in the air. A matching co-ord set in soft fabric? Instant upgrade. Add a sleek backpack or crossbody bag, and you’ve got airport chic without trying too hard.
When planning my outfit for a long flight, I also think about where I’m landing. Am I stepping into humid Southeast Asia or chilly Northern Europe? A quick weather check is essential — and that’s where tools like WayAway really come in handy. Not only can I find flight deals, but I also earn cash-back — perfect for saving on those big international trips. And once I land, knowing I’ve booked a comfy hotel or hostel via Booking.com helps me relax and focus on the journey ahead, not worry about post-flight logistics.
✈️ Worried about flight delays? Check out How to Reduce the Risk of Flight Delays: Essential Tips for Hassle-Free Travel for quick tips to keep your trips on time and stress-free!
2. Layering is Life: Mastering the Art of Temperature Control 🧥🧊
If there’s one universal truth about flying, it’s this: the cabin temperature will mess with you. One moment you’re shivering under the overhead vent, the next you’re peeling off layers because it’s suddenly a sauna. That’s why layering is the ultimate travel outfit hack. I always start with a soft base layer, like a breathable tank or T-shirt, and build up with a light jumper, oversized cardigan, or a soft jacket. Not only does this keep me comfortable, but it also allows me to adapt quickly during the flight or when moving through different climates.
A large scarf or pashmina is my secret weapon — it doubles as a blanket, neck support, or even a pillow if needed. Compression socks are another must-have for long flights; they improve circulation and keep swelling at bay, especially if you’re sitting for hours. Add in an eye mask and a memory-foam neck pillow, and you’ve created a mini in-flight sanctuary. These little things can turn a basic seat into a more restful space, which is so important if you’re travelling solo and can’t rely on anyone else to look after your things while you rest.
When prepping for long flights, I also take care of my health and comfort beyond just clothes. That’s where travel insurance comes into play — and I always recommend having it sorted before takeoff. I personally love SafetyWing for its flexibility and affordability, especially for digital nomads and long-term travellers. If I’m planning a more adventurous trip, Ekta offers solid coverage too. It’s one of those things you hope you won’t need, but when you do — you’ll be glad it’s there.
✈️ Struggling to sleep on flights? Check out How to Make Your Flight Sleep More Comfortable for tips to arrive well-rested and ready for your adventure!
3. Footwear Matters More Than You Think 👟🦶
Your choice of shoes can literally make or break your airport experience. Ever struggled to untie boots at security or regretted wearing heavy footwear after hour ten of a layover? Yep — been there, never again. I always go for easy slip-on shoes when flying. They’re ideal for breezing through airport security without the awkward balancing act, and they make your whole outfit feel more relaxed and airport-appropriate. Think trainers, slip-on loafers, or even stylish sneakers with good arch support.
And if there’s one brand I swear by, it’s Skechers — especially the Go Walk range. I honestly wear them everywhere — not just while travelling, but in my everyday life too. They’re incredibly lightweight, ridiculously comfortable, and perfect for long days on your feet, whether you're rushing through terminals or wandering new cities. The memory foam insoles? Game changer. I love them so much that I even got my brother and my mum hooked on Skechers too — now it’s become a bit of a family thing! We all agree: once you go Skechers, you don’t go back. 😄
Leave the heels at home — seriously. Not only are they a nightmare in terminals with endless walking, but they’re also a disaster for swollen feet, which is super common on long flights. Tight shoes, stiff soles, or anything without enough cushioning just isn’t worth it. And as for bulky boots? Unless you absolutely need them at your destination, avoid wearing them on the plane — tuck them in your checked bag and travel light instead.
Now, I’m not saying you should rock socks and sandals (unless you’re going for that look 😅), but comfy socks are a must. Keep a pair of thick or compression socks in your carry-on to stay warm and avoid cold feet mid-air. Once I land, I like to have a smooth ground transport plan ready — whether it’s a local train or an airport bus. Omio is my go-to for booking reliable trains and buses across Europe, while 12Go is super helpful when I’m travelling in Southeast Asia. I want my transition from air to ground to be as seamless — and stylish — as possible.
🌏 Dreading a long-haul flight? Check out The Ultimate Guide to Surviving a Long-Haul Flight for essential tips to stay comfortable and refreshed on your journey!
4. Best Fabrics for Flights: Breathable, Wrinkle-Free, and Kind to Skin 🌿👕
Not all fabrics are created equal, especially when you’re going to be sitting in them for 8 to 15 hours straight. I always opt for natural, breathable fabrics like cotton, bamboo, modal, and merino wool. These materials are gentle on the skin, help regulate temperature, and don’t trap odours — which is exactly what you need on a long-haul flight. Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon might look sleek, but they tend to cling, sweat, and make you feel stuffy — not ideal for cabin air.
Another thing I pay attention to is how wrinkle-prone a fabric is. I’ve stepped off too many flights looking like I rolled out of a laundry basket, so now I stick to clothes that hold their shape well and don’t wrinkle easily. Soft knits, cotton blends, and stretch fabrics are my top picks. They’re comfy enough to sleep in but still stylish enough to wear straight to the hotel check-in or a quick city stroll.
When I plan for those 10+ hour flights, my go-to outfit formula is pretty simple: breathable trousers, a soft tee, a warm layer, and a scarf. Add a crossbody bag and some minimalist jewellery, and you’ve got a travel outfit that works just about anywhere. And speaking of planning — I always check the arrival weather before getting dressed. There’s nothing worse than landing in Bangkok wearing fleece. That’s why I use Airalo to download a local eSIM as soon as I land. I can check the weather, pull up directions, and stay connected instantly without searching for airport Wi-Fi. It’s such a small step, but it saves so much hassle — and that’s what stylish, stress-free travel is all about.
🕰️ Struggling with jet lag? Check out How to Beat Jet Lag: Tips for Staying Energised After Your Flight for proven tips to bounce back quickly and enjoy your trip!
If you’re finding these travel style tips helpful, don’t forget to give this post a like — it really helps me create more content you’ll love! ✈️❤️
5. Long-Haul Flight Essentials: Add-Ons That Elevate Comfort 🎧🧴
There are a few game-changing travel essentials I never board a long-haul flight without. First up: noise-cancelling headphones — they’re not just for entertainment, they’re for sanity. Blocking out crying babies, chatty neighbours, or the engine's constant hum makes a massive difference when trying to rest or reset mid-air. A good hydrating lip balm is another must. The air in cabins is unbelievably dry, and I’ve learned the hard way how easily lips can crack or sting after several hours. I also always carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated without relying solely on the tiny plastic cups from the flight attendants — plus, it’s more sustainable.
Another underrated must-have? A small crossbody or belt bag. Forget lugging a giant tote around the terminal — you’ll thank yourself when you’re effortlessly reaching for your passport, boarding pass, or lip balm mid-flight without rummaging. Keeping your essentials close and hands-free just makes everything feel smoother. And once you land, the last thing you want is to stress about how to get to your accommodation. That’s why I highly recommend Welcome Pickups — they offer reliable, pre-booked airport transfers with friendly local drivers. It's so much nicer than queuing for taxis or navigating public transport when you’re exhausted and jet-lagged.
🌍✈️ Thinking about your first solo adventure? Check out How to Solo Travel for the First Time: A Complete Beginner’s Guide for essential tips, practical advice, and everything you need to start your journey confidently!
6. Airport to Street-Ready Looks: Outfits That Transition Well 🧳🚶♀️
One of my favourite solo travel hacks? Planning outfits that work just as well on the plane as they do on arrival. Whether I’m landing in Paris, Bangkok, or Cairo, I want to look put-together without doing a full outfit change in the airport bathroom. The trick is to choose neutral, breathable basics with a polished finish — like a black jumpsuit layered with a light trench, or wide-leg trousers paired with a comfy-yet-chic knit top. It’s all about effortless airport style that still turns heads on the street.
I always pack a fresh top, scarf, or dress in my personal item — changing into something crisp right before landing gives me that boost of energy and confidence to kick off my trip on the right note. Plus, if I’m heading straight to my accommodation, I want to look (and feel) presentable. For a quick refresh and a clean, comfy bed after a long flight, I’ve had great luck with both Booking.com and Hostelworld. They offer so many affordable options with late check-in, which is perfect when flights land at odd hours.
🌍 Are you an introvert ready to embrace solo travel? Check out How to Travel Solo and Meet New People: A Friendly Guide for Introverts for tips on connecting with others while exploring the world on your terms! 🧘♀️
7. What NOT to Wear on a Long Flight (and Why!) ⛔😬
Let’s talk about what to absolutely avoid wearing on a long flight, because I’ve learned these lessons the hard way! First: anything too tight or stiff. Jeans with zero stretch, overly structured tops, or skirts that dig into your waist? No, thank you. They’ll only make you feel restricted, uncomfortable, and irritated within hours. I also steer clear of clothing with scratchy tags, tight seams, or synthetic fabrics that trap heat and cause itchiness or sweat patches — especially polyester.
Then there are the security line offenders: shoes with too many laces, belts that trigger metal detectors, and jewellery that you’ll just have to remove and put back on. Trust me, it's not worth the hassle. I like to keep things simple and hassle-free from the moment I step into the airport. To avoid additional travel stress, especially on international trips, I always check iVisa for visa requirements and processing — it’s super helpful for staying ahead of the paperwork game. And if your flight gets delayed or cancelled (ugh), AirHelp has helped me claim compensation more than once — a true lifesaver when travel plans don’t go as expected.
💸 Want to explore the world without emptying your wallet? Check out Essential Budget Travel Hacks for Solo Adventurers: How to Travel Smart and Save Big for clever tips to stretch your money and maximise every adventure! 🌟
8. Bonus Tip: Travel Light but Smart – Especially for Solo Travellers 🎒✨
As a solo traveller, I’ve learned that travelling light isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity. Dragging a heavy suitcase around solo is exhausting, and honestly, most of us overpack without realising it. The key? Creating a capsule wardrobe. I focus on versatile pieces in coordinating colours that I can mix and match — think two tops per bottom, neutral outerwear, and shoes that go with everything. My go-to formula: one comfy travel outfit, one “dress-up” outfit, and a few light layers that can work for different weather situations.
Not only does this strategy save space, but it also saves time and decision fatigue while I’m on the road. And if your trip involves any road tripping or exploring off the beaten path, I can’t recommend Discover Cars enough. Their site is easy to use, transparent with pricing, and perfect for finding good rental car deals — plus, having a car gives you total freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether I’m heading to a hidden beach or a mountain village, I love knowing I can keep moving without dragging heavy bags around.
🌍 Ready to navigate a new city solo with confidence? Check out Solo Travel Safety: How to Navigate a New City Alone for expert tips to stay secure, explore, and enjoy your adventure! 🚶♀️🌍
I’d love to hear your thoughts! What’s your go-to flight outfit? Drop a comment below and let’s chat about making travel comfy and stylish. 🧳💬
It’s amazing how much the right outfit can shape your entire travel experience. Whether you're flying across continents or just a few hours away, wearing something that’s both comfortable and confidence-boosting makes every part of the journey smoother. From gliding through security to feeling fresh and fabulous on arrival, it’s the little choices — breathable fabrics, smart layering, the perfect pair of Skechers — that genuinely make a big difference. Solo travel is already an adventure, so why not feel good in your own skin while navigating it?
Looking good and feeling great doesn’t have to mean sacrificing practicality. In fact, it can enhance your solo travel experience by making you feel more prepared, more relaxed, and more “you.” And if you love talking about travel just as much as I do, here’s a cheeky tip: TravelPayouts is a fab way to start earning from your travel obsession. You don’t need to be an influencer or run a full-time blog — just a passion for exploring the world and sharing your tips. ✈️💼
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