When your clothing is not constricting, the experience of flying is significantly better! When flying for an extended period in a confinement like an airplane seat, and the plane is cramped, the air is cold, and the ability to move around is limited, it can transform what should be a simple trip into a nightmare! Fortunately, there are ways to maintain comfort while aboard an airplane that are neither overwhelming nor mundane!
Most airline passengers will find that throughout the airport security line, until they receive the announcement about their flight taking off, most of them have figured out one thing about the travel experience – sitting for long periods of time, on an airplane, while wearing rigid clothing is a poor choice. Our bodies are designed to operate efficiently through movement, however, when we take off on an airplane, our bodies are essentially put into a position to remain still for several hours. The clothing that we wear will affect how comfortable we are when we arrive at our destination. It does not matter what the fashion trends may dictate – comfort – when flying – means being able to freely move without restriction or feeling like you are being stifled due to heat.
One of the most underrated forms of comfort while flying is stretchy pants. Whether training pants, sweat pants, or blended cotton stretchies, the pants allow our legs to stretch out comfortably while at the same time not pressing against our waist or knees too tightly. When sitting in one place for a long duration, wearing a stretchy pant equals a level of comfort that will be much more enjoyable! Also, since the majority of us sit in a confined area for any extended period of time, choosing fabrics that are lightweight and breathable, as opposed to heavy and restrictive is always the best choice.
While it might be logical to first discuss tops, your choice of footwear should really be your primary consideration when flying. Slip on shoes make life so easy at airports and onboard an aircraft. No laces to tie, no hassle of putting them on and taking them off while you wait in line for security checks, and you won’t have to do an awkward one-legged balancing act on one of the security tables or benches. After boarding the aircraft, slip on shoes make it much easier to take your shoes off or loosen them up, allowing your feet to get comfortable and relieving the build-up of fatigue. Another great feature of many slip on shoes is that they still look neat and put together without looking like you’re trying too hard.
Because cabins tend to be colder than we would like, a quality pair of socks will help alleviate this issue. Quality socks made of Cotton or Bamboo will help keep your feet warm and comfortable. The best length of sock to wear while travelling would be a mid-calf or calf-type sock; this is especially important if you plan to remove your shoes on a flight. In addition to providing a comfortable environment for your foot, warm feet will surprisingly increase your overall foot circulation and well-being.
Now let’s move on to a basic item that you can rely on every time you travel Ð Cotton T-Shirts! Cotton is light weight, breathable and good to wear against your skin on long flights. The most comfortable fit/size for an oversized or relaxed-fit T-shirt is the best for layering. Cotton’s performance in temperature changes is equally good; whether the cabin is warm or cool, you will be comfortable in your T-shirt.
Lightweight button front shirts work great if you want a shirt that looks dressy but still has plenty of room and comfort to move around in. Lightweight cotton, chambray, and lightweight flannel shirts can all be worn together for added versatility. They can be adjusted based on how warm or cold it gets, and they offer maximum airflow due to their loose fitting nature, making them easy to remain comfortable while looking neat.
People typically wait until THEIR flight goes bad, with sore legs, stiff necks, or feeling as though they are trapped inside their clothes, to think about what outfit to wear while traveling. When planning a trip, you should think about what you are going to wear while traveling just as you would pack your phone charger or passport. It’s not about putting on “dressy” clothes, but making it easier for you to get through the journey.
When preparing for your next travel experience, remember this very important tip: Comfort is the top priority, keep it simple, and make sure your wardrobe works WITH you, not against you. A comfortable outfit for traveling will help you arrive feeling human again, rather than arriving in agony.
