Choosing what to pack for a trip can be exciting.
Opting for what to wear on the flight can have you pulling your hair out.
It’s a balance between comfort, airport-friendly, the temperature at your location and the temperature at your destination. No matter where you are and where you are heading, there are a few basic rules about what not to wear that will make your flight a bit more comfortable. Some of them may seem obvious, but if you’re like me, you may still make the odd flight attire faux pas.
Jeans or cargo pants
Why? Well, who wants to travel for hours in a constricted space with a tight waistband? Our bodies swell on a flight so what may be waist-friendly on the ground, may turn into our nemesis upon take off. Cargo trousers are a security nightmare with metal fastenings, and endless pockets to search. Instead, opt for loose-fitting trousers with an elasticated waistband. This style of trouser is less restrictive, allows for eventual bloating and encourages healthy blood circulation.
Dungarees or all-in-one rompers
Dungarees or all-in-one rompers may seem like an excellent choice. But, picture this: you need the in-flight bathroom, you fumble with your dungaree straps, you hit a bit of turbulence and the next thing you know the strap has touched the sodden floor. Yuk! OK, it’s not the end of the world but you now have to sit in those dungarees for the next few hours. Though not the worst choice of attire, you definitely don’t want to get caught short and scramble to get out of your one-piece in a tiny aeroplane toilet.
Chunky boots, high heels or flip-flops
Apart from the initial headache at security with chunky boots, laces or lots of metal detail, there’s also the safety aspect of wearing heels or flip-flops. It is usually a trade-off when it comes to packing holiday footwear. Different styles are often needed for various activities. Trekking, fancy dinners, beaches, city walks. So people travel wearing one of their holiday options, which is not always ideal. Keep in mind that your feet also swell during a flight, so you will want to slip your shoes off. The ideal shoe is comfortable, easy to slip on and off and is also safe when navigating the airport, through security and boarding. Slip-on trainers, espadrilles, loafers and ballerinas are all good options.
Anything white
I have lost count of the times I have spilt coffee or food on myself. Or indeed having the passenger next to me splash their culinary delights over me. Opening a can of Coke, or wrestling with the peel-off cover from the chicken curry can leave a horrible stain. I have no idea what permanent dye they use in those curries, but that stuff never washes out! So, to avoid embarrassing stains on your otherwise brilliant white clothing, opt for dark colours.
Uncomfortable bra
I am sure all female travellers have experienced this. Since our bodies swell at 35,000 feet, you don’t want your underwear digging into your ribs and shoulders. It is best to avoid underwear with underwiring or that is in any way too constrictive. Instead, opt for soft bras that offer support without cutting your upper torso off.
Too many hair accessories
Claw clips or lots of little metal clips, can be a headache for security when they set off the detectors. Not to mention, forgetting you have a claw clip in your hair and leaning back on the headrest is agony. If you intend to relax and take a nap, lots of accessories in your hair are not conducive to a restful flight. Instead, keep your hair simple and leave it down or use a soft scrunchy to tie it into a loose ponytail.
Lots of chunky jewellery
Large bracelets, dangling earrings and chunky watches can all delay your security checks. They often set off the detector, requiring you to remove all items before walking through again. Apart from the security inconvenience, wearing lots of chunky items is not comfortable when sitting in a small space for hours. Adding or removing layers during a flight can be a delicate manoeuvre when wearing large dangling earrings. One wrong move and there goes an earlobe. If you want to take these kinds of accessories on your trip, pack them in a compartment in your carry-on luggage.
Too much makeup or fragrance
The air on a plane is recycled and dehydrating, so flying with a full face of makeup is harmful to your skin. Ditch layers of foundation for a clean and simple look. A moisturiser and sunscreen are best. You could also add a touch of mascara and blush if you feel too bare-faced.
Strong fragrances can trigger asthma or allergies in other passengers. So it is best to avoid strong aftershaves or perfumes. If not for your fellow passengers, consider that you’ll be breathing in everybody’s recycled fragrance for hours. I, for one, do not relish the idea.
What you wear when travelling obviously comes down to personal taste. Yet, it is best to keep in mind your own comfort and that of your fellow passengers. Some airlines actually have dress codes, so it’s also best to check if there are any on your particular flight. Hawaiian Airlines is one such airline, which prohibits the wearing of swimwear on their flights. Don’t ask! But in all honesty, boarding can be refused if your clothing is deemed offensive.
Kick back and relax: your guide to stress-free airport lounge access!
