As someone who travels frequently and understands the challenges of staying stylish and comfortable on the go, I know that your choice of travel outfit can make or break your experience. Whether you’re on a short domestic flight or a long-haul journey, dressing thoughtfully is essential for comfort, safety, and style.
Here are Five Things You Should Never Wear on a Flight (and What to Wear Instead) along with chic alternatives to help you arrive looking and feeling fabulous.
1. Do NOT wear Tight or Restrictive Clothing on a flight
Why you shouldn't wear this to fly?
Tight clothes, such as bodycon dresses, can restrict blood flow and lead to discomfort, especially during long flights. Sitting for extended periods in restrictive clothing increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and makes movement difficult. I also don’t recommend bodysuits or anything hard to get out of when you need to use the bathroom on the plane.

What to Wear Instead to Fly?
Compression leggings are a must for flights of four hours or more to avoid DVT, and they’re incredibly stylish and practical.
For fall and winter, I love the Spanx Faux Leather Leggings; they’re chic and functional and have compression built in - perfect for flying!. For other seasons, Amazon has great affordable options. Pair them with a button-up shirt and a blazer for a layered, comfortable look. Alternatively, wide-leg pants with compression socks underneath are a great option.

My Top Picks:
2. Do NOT wear High Heels or Uncomfortable Shoes on a flight

Why you shouldn't wear this to fly?
While heels look great, they’re not practical for navigating airports or emergencies. They can also cause foot pain or swelling during flights.
What to Wear Instead to Fly?
I prefer sneakers for travel because they double as workout shoes, and I always wear my bulkiest footwear to save luggage space.
My current favorite sneakers are the Gucci Run GG Crystal Mesh Low Top Sneakers,
in the spring/summer, I love the Fendi Women’s Feel FF Jacquard Sabot Mules.
If you’re looking for less expensive alternatives, consider:

Birkenstock Teddy Clogs are a stylish and warm choice when paired with socks

My Top Picks!
3. Do NOT wear Complicated Outfits with Lots of Layers or Accessories on a Flight
Why you shouldn't wear this to fly?
While layers are great for flights, too many layers or heavy accessories can make you uncomfortable and slow you down during security checks. It’s all about balance and choosing the right layers for comfort and flexibility.
What to Wear Instead to Fly?
As a menopausal woman in her 50s, I never know when a hot flash might hit, so I’m a big fan of layering—but thoughtfully. My go-to travel outfit includes a ball cap, leggings, and a blazer (linen or cotton in the spring/summer or a wool blend for the winter/fall). I love my ZARA Basic Black Blazer for Fall and Winter and I will often switch to the Zara Linen Blend Open Front Blazer for Spring and Summer. Either is a great travel option.
Underneath a blazer, I like to wear:
a button-down shirt
a t-shirt
leggings
sneakers
OR
t-shirt
cardigan
leggings
sneakers
I also add a scarf, baseball hat, and boots and coat (if needed) for warmth in the winter months. These layers are easy to remove as necessary and provide both comfort and style. I also avoid belts and jewelry (except for stud earrings) when traveling. Items that can be taken off or adjusted quickly are the way to go, offering ease and flexibility without the hassle.
My Top Picks!
Cherry Baseball Cap (Amazon)

4. Avoid Fabrics That Don’t Breathe when selecting clothing to wear to the airport and on a flight
Why you shouldn't wear this to fly?
Synthetic fabrics like polyester trap heat and moisture, making you feel hot and sticky—especially during long flights.
What to Wear Instead to Fly?
Stick to breathable, natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or bamboo. These materials keep you cool and comfortable throughout your journey.
My Top Picks!
5. Avoid Jumpsuits or Anything Too Revealing when selecting clothing to wear to the airport and on a flight
Why you shouldn't wear this to fly?
Do not Wear a Jumpsuit to Fly
Jumpsuits are a travel nightmare. You usually have to zip or button your way in and out of them, which means taking them almost completely off to use the bathroom. I love this jumpsuit but I would NEVER wear it to fly!

Do not Wear Revealing clothing to Fly
Overly revealing outfits can also make you feel cold on the plane or attract unwanted attention. Some airlines have even removed passengers from flights for wearing clothes deemed too revealing. There have been multiple stories of female passengers being asked to leave flights due to their attire —highlighting the importance of dressing appropriately when flying.  Read a story on this subject here.
What to Wear Instead to Fly?
A chic athleisure wear set is a much better option. Not only does it provide comfort and flexibility, but it’s also stylish and practical. And its easy to layer as needed with a coat boyfriend blazer, or jacket if needed. Brands like Zara, Amazon, and Target offer great two-piece sets that balance fashion and functionality.
My Top Picks!

Additional Stylish Travel Options
Two-Piece Sets Two-piece sets are a fashionable and convenient choice for travel, offering a coordinated look with minimal effort. Zara offers a variety of chic co-ord sets, including skirt and top combinations, blazer sets, and pant co-ords that will leave you looking stylish wherever you go.
Athleisure Wear Athleisure wear combines comfort and style, making it an excellent option for flights. Amazon and Target offers a wide range of affordable women’s athleisure clothing, including leggings, joggers, and tops suitable for travel.
My Picks!
Final Thoughts
Your travel outfit should strike the perfect balance between comfort and style. By avoiding restrictive clothing, impractical shoes, complicated outfits, synthetic fabrics, jumpsuits, and overly revealing pieces, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable flight.
Remember, your travel wardrobe is an extension of your self-care routine—choose pieces that make you feel good and look fabulous!
Final Tip: Bring Cozy Extras
Besides your Aoliks Compression Socks for Women (Amazon) to improve circulation also bring a chic travel blanket or pillow for added comfort.
For additional travel protection, consider travel insurance options through Squaremouth to cover unforeseen circumstances.
Try these:
Compression Socks: Aoliks Compression Socks for Women (Amazon)
Travel Blanket:Â BlueHills Travel Blanket Pillow in Portable Case (Amazon)
Ready to step up your travel game?
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Download the Travel Safety and Security Guide for Solo Female Travelers
For more detailed information on how to stay safe while exploring the world solo, check out my guide Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers. This guide covers everything from cultural norms to situational awareness, empowering you to travel confidently.
This resource is packed with expert advice to empower solo female travelers with the knowledge to explore the world confidently and safely.

Thinking about travel but not ready to go completely alone?Â
Hang out with me and some Fly 40+ Sistas in some cool places.
Visit my dedicated Meet Up Page to learn about my upcoming girls' trip for Fly 40+ women!
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Grab a spot today! We are going to have a Time!!!
Thank You For Reading!
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