You've been dreaming of this holiday! Whether you're heading to the other side of the world or taking a quick weekend break, here you are standing in front of your wardrobe, suitcase at the ready — but something's nagging at you: what to wear on the plane. A pair of jeans? A T-shirt? A tracksuit? What a headache! There are no strict rules about what to wear. But there are several factors to consider: time zone differences, flight duration, potential discomfort… In short, to avoid any unpleasantness, here are our tips for travelling in comfort.
Staying comfortable in your travel clothes on a flight
Comfort is the golden rule for air travel. Whatever the length of the flight, don't overlook this. Tight-fitting clothes are a no-go. A slim-fit jean you'll need to unbutton once seated, or a tight top, won't offer optimal comfort. The best compromise for travel clothing is a pair of trousers that aren't too tight, don't compress the legs, and allow good circulation. Consider, for example, lightweight trousers with plenty of stretch for maximum comfort. For your top half, go for a loose t-shirt or a short-sleeved shirt. One more thing: it's now perfectly possible to combine style and comfort! The "shapeless sack" look is no longer a requirement. Comfortable and stylish can absolutely go hand in hand.
Neither too hot nor too cold on a plane
Choosing what to wear on a flight requires following a few key rules to avoid unnecessary discomfort. Adopt the multi-layer system. Keep in mind that temperatures will vary between your departure point, the flight itself, and your destination — not forgetting any stopovers. You generally have control over your journey to the airport, but significant temperature differences can catch you off guard after that.
Bear in mind that you should be neither too hot nor too cold. The layering system makes it easy to add or remove clothing as needed. The aircraft cabin is air-conditioned, and you'll be seated and still for almost the entire flight, making you more susceptible to the cold. Pack a compact, lightweight garment such as a zip-up jacket, thin and light, or a top that sits well over the lower back to keep that area covered. Remember to protect your neck and throat — a chill or a stiff neck could ruin your holiday! The cabin ceiling blows cold air from the air conditioning.
Your feet can also take a beating during a flight. Even if your destination is sunny, keep your feet covered with socks — they'll be freezing cold by the time you land. Your travel outfit should therefore consist of several thin layers that can easily be removed or added.
Don't neglect your health on a flight
Health issues could put a damper on your journey. Heavy, tired legs are something none of us can always avoid. Why do you think athletes wear compression stockings or recovery socks on flights? They're after comfort and want to avoid swollen legs or circulatory problems. Plan ahead and pack specialist socks, as you'll be sitting still for an extended period. Don't assume that only older people suffer from heavy leg sensations! You can discreetly wear compression stockings under your trousers to look after your health. Another tip: don't hesitate to take a few steps around the cabin to stay on your feet — a "toilet break" is always a good excuse!
Leave your tight leather shoes at home. Opt for soft, not-too-tight footwear instead. If your feet feel swollen, it's best not to remove your shoes, as getting them back on afterwards can be a real struggle. Try loosening your laces instead. Choosing the right clothes for air travel is not something to take lightly.
Whether your flight lasts one hour or ten, it should remain a moment of relaxation — discomfort can set in quickly if you're not prepared. The key is to plan your flight wisely, starting with choosing the right clothes to travel in. Use those hours in the air to read a good book, have a nap — in short, feel like you're already on holiday! Follow our advice and you'll be in great shape to enjoy your trip from the moment you land. Welcome aboard!
