What to Wear on a Plane to Stay Cozy and Fashionable in 2025

Going to new destinations is one of the best ways to feel alive, but your least favorite part might be getting there. If you struggle to sit still and stay comfortable on a plane full of other people, you might not be wearing the right clothes. If you haven’t ever traveled by air, knowing what to wear on a plane can save you hours of discomfort. However, you shouldn’t feel forced to give up your sense of style to be comfortable. These guidelines will help you make an airport-ready outfit that will keep you cozy and looking put together.

Key Clothes to Wear on a Plane

These are the essential elements to a comfortable airport outfit.

1. Layered Tops

Always pack your layers on planes. You’ll find out very quickly that the cabin is colder more often than warm. Plane temperatures tend to stay cold to minimize the risk of passengers fainting mid-flight, which can happen in warmer cabins. Having some simple layers, such as a jacket or cardigan, can help you stay warm but can transform your look. Plus, they’re easy to get on and off from your seat in case the temperature changes.

Start with a short sleeved shirt as your base layer, and then add a sweatshirt or cardigan for warmth. Something that zips or buttons up may be easier to take off and on while you’re sitting in a cramped plane seat, rather than a pullover sweater.

4 Pack Oversized Women’s T-Shirts: $29.99 on Amazon

Women’s Fleece Full-Zip Hoodie: $20.32 on Amazon

2. Supportive Shoes

It can be challenging to find decent-quality shoes to keep you comfortable and cute enough to project your style. When going to the airport, there are two key things to keep in mind when choosing your shoes: comfortable enough to walk in, and easy to remove when going through security.  

Some people opt for sandals that they can easily slide off in security, but be sure to wear socks to avoid the dirty floor. Sneakers will be the most comfortable options, and they can be easy enough to remove as long as you don’t tie the laces too tight. You could also go with sneakers specifically designed to slip on.

Skechers Women’s Hands Free Slip-in Sneakers: $54.00 on Amazon

CUSHIONAIRE Lane Cork Footbed Sandals: $29.99 on Amazon

3. Flexible Pants

For bottoms, you will be most comfortable wearing pants. Even if it’s the middle of summer, shorts are likely to be uncomfortable, especially on longer flights.

To maximize comfort, consider wearing a relaxed fit athletic pant. Hard materials like denim won’t be as flexible, and tight pants like leggings may feel restricting after a while. Many people default to sweatpants, though some would rather look a bit more put together when they arrive at their destination.

Women’s Golf Pants: $34.99 on Amazon

Wide Leg Yoga Pants: $19.99 on Amazon

4. Scarf

Scarves can save you in the cold of an airplane. They’re also easy layers to add if you’re going from somewhere warm to a colder environment. Plus, you can turn them into a makeshift blanket if you want to maximize your coziness factor on the plane ride.

Go for a scarf that’s not too big and bulky so it can easily fold up and fit in your bag when you don’t need it.

Pashmina Blanket Scarf: $25.99 on Amazon

5. Compression Socks

Some people may experience swollen feet after a long flight. When you’re sitting in a confined space for a while, your blood may not circulate as well in your legs. Compression socks can help alleviate this discomfort.

Pair them with loose-fitting pants to promote circulation and stay comfortable during your flight.

3 Pack Compression Socks: $14.99 on Amazon

Other Things to Consider

When shopping for specific items, here are some additional tips to help you ensure you’ll be comfortable.

Lightweight Fabric

When traveling by plane, you want to ensure your clothing is breathable. Breathable fabrics ensure that air can slip through the clothing and not trap sweat or moisture. Cotton clothing is the best example of a breathable fabric, but most things that are light and airy can circulate air through them, too. Untucked button-up shirts can allow air to circulate as long as yours is a little big on you. Fabrics without these air-circulating properties will make you feel sweatier and nastier after getting off the plane.

Functional Pockets

Nothing is worse than buying a pair of pants and realizing too late that they don’t have pockets. You should always opt for clothing with deep pockets when you travel, just in case you need to store something in a pinch. Pocket space is always welcome, whether it’s a massive hoodie pocket or a secure pants pocket. Avoid faux pockets and prioritize zippers when possible to make sure your items are secure.

Compression Clothing

If you’re anticipating a long flight, you may want to stock up on some compression accessories in addition to socks. Compression clothing can help with soreness after activity, meaning that if you have an old injury acting up from sitting still too long, compression socks or gloves might be able to help you manage the pain on a long flight. Plus, it promotes blood circulation, which is perfect for a long flight you may have difficulty with.

Where You’ll Go When You Get Off the Plane

While you want to focus on comfort on the plane, you should also consider what you want to wear when you depart. If you’re going on a business trip and heading straight to a conference from the airport, you should plan accordingly. That could mean wearing wide-leg slacks and a work-appropriate (though still comfortable) top and packing dress shoes in your carry-on for a quick change.

If you’re heading right to the hotel from the airport, you can dress as casually as you like. Keep in mind, though, in some countries, athleisure is not as socially acceptable, so you may get some stares if you’re walking down the street in sweatpants.

When in doubt, wear your comfy clothes on the plane and pack a second outfit in your personal bag so you can change in the airport. Jeans and a sweater can be a go-to casual, but ready for anything outfit to have on hand in case you make any stops between the airport and your accommodations.

Choose What to Wear on a Plane Before You Leave

The first day of your trip can feel like a long journey. You don’t want to risk wearing something that will dig into your skin, give you blisters or having you shivering on a chilly flight. Whether it’s your first time on an airplane or you need a refresher, save this airplane outfit guide for your next adventure.

Originally Published 2/19/2023 – Updated 3/19/2025