Comfort is king when you’re crammed into a coach seat for hours, and certain clothing choices can turn a pleasurable flight into a nightmare. Here are 21 things to avoid wearing while flying.
Tight Clothes
You may look fabulous in that fitted outfit, but tight clothing can be a nightmare on a plane. They restrict blood flow and raise the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). No one wants to deal with swollen legs or, worse, a medical emergency mid-flight. Instead, opt for looser, more comfortable clothing to keep your circulation flowing and your legs happy.
Complicated Clothing
Clothing with several layers or complicated fastenings can be inconvenient on an airplane, as they can make using the bathroom more difficult. Layers that are easy to remove are generally easier to wear and more comfortable. You may also want to avoid shoes with laces, especially when going through airport security. Instead, opt for slip-ons or shoes with easy fastenings.
High Heels
Save the stilettos for when you reach your destination. High heels can be downright painful for those long treks through the airport, and they make it harder to relax during the flight. Instead, choose comfortable, supportive footwear like flats or sneakers.
Heavy Jewelry
That statement necklace is guaranteed to set off metal detectors. Do you really want to deal with taking off and putting back on a ton of jewelry at security? Stick to minimal, non-metallic accessories to avoid the hassle and save time.
Belts with Big Buckles
A belt can pull an outfit together, but a large buckle will slow you down at security checks. If you must wear one, pick a belt with a smaller, more manageable buckle or one that won’t set off detectors.
Perfume
In the close quarters of an airplane, strong perfumes can be overwhelming, sometimes triggering allergies or headaches in other passengers. To keep the peace and ensure a pleasant flight for everyone, go scent-free or apply your perfume sparingly.
Contact Lenses
Dry cabin air can irritate your eyes and make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable. Having dry, irritated eyes while confined to a small seat is not a pleasant experience. So, if you can, wear glasses during the flight. If you require contacts, consider bringing rewetting drops to keep your eyes comfortable.
Layers of Makeup
Flying is not the time for a full face of makeup, as the dry air can cause your makeup to crack and feel uncomfortable. A little moisturizer and lip balm will keep you feeling fresh and hydrated. Save the glam for when you land.
Short Skirts or Dresses
Short skirts or dresses can be impractical on a flight. Sitting for long periods can be uncomfortable, and you might get chilly, so select something with a bit more coverage to stay warm and comfortable.
Skinny Jeans
Skinny jeans are stylish, but they can be incredibly restrictive, especially on long flights. Sitting in tight jeans for hours can lead to discomfort and even numbness. Instead, go for a pair of comfy joggers or leggings that allow you to move freely.
Overly Casual Wear
While you don’t need to dress to the nines, overly casual wear like beachwear or gym clothes can look out of place and may not be as comfortable as you think for long hours of sitting. Also, while comfort is key, pajamas might be taking it a bit too far. You don’t want to look like you just rolled out of bed when walking through the airport. Aim for an outfit that’s comfortable yet presentable, like athleisure wear.
Synthetic Fabrics
Avoid fabrics like polyester, since they don’t breathe well and can make you feel hot and sticky. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are much better for regulating your temperature. Pack softer materials to avoid irritation and potential mid-flight meltdowns, and your skin will be a lot happier.
New Clothes
Stick to tried-and-true pieces you know you’ll be comfortable in. There’s nothing worse than discovering your new shirt is scratchy, or your pants are too tight when you’re already in the air.
Flip-Flops
While easy to slip on and off, flip-flops offer little support and expose your feet to the dirt and grime of the airport floor. Choose supportive sandals or sneakers instead, which are just as easy to take off but offer more support and protection.
Bulky Jackets
It’s tempting to bring your warmest coat on board, but once you’re settled in your seat, bulky jackets can be a nuisance. Wear a lighter jacket and bring a compact, foldable one if needed. You can always layer up once you arrive at your destination.
Shorts
Even if you’re headed to a tropical destination, airplane cabins can get surprisingly chilly. That’s why you should opt for lightweight pants or a long skirt instead.
Offensive Slogans
This is a no-brainer. Shirts with vulgar or inappropriate graphics are an easy way to get flagged by security, and you might be denied boarding. These outfits can also cause tension, which is not ideal when jammed into a plane with hundreds of people. Leave the statement shirts at home to avoid an awkward runway confrontation.
Heavy Boots
Unless you’re flying to a worksite, leave the heavy boots at home. They’re cumbersome and can make security checks a hassle. Plus, they’re not the most comfortable choice for a long flight. Instead, opt for lighter footwear like sandals or sneakers.
Hats
A hat can be a pain during a flight. You’ll need to take it off during security checks, and it might get squished in the overhead bin or under your seat. If you must bring a hat, pack it in your carry-on.
Underwire Bras
If you can, avoid wearing underwire bras during flights. The metal in the underwire can set off airport security alarms, resulting in unnecessary delays. Underwire bras can also cause discomfort when sitting for extended periods of time.
Earbuds
Headphones are ideal for shutting out noise or enjoying entertainment, but earbuds fall short. Their sound quality might be improved, and they provide less protection against airplane noise. Takeoff can exceed 120 decibels, which can damage your hearing, so normal headphones are better at blocking this out.
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