What You Should Wear (And What To Avoid) When Long-Haul Flying, According To An Expert

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Forgot what it was like to fly long-haul? Same. While we’re excited that international travel is back, those 14-hour legs aren’t exactly fun if you’re seated in economy. It’s good to know what to wear to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible.

There’s also the chance of an upgrade to consider. While rare, these do happen — and you could find yourself flying business class if you play your cards right. We asked frequent flyer and travel writer Chloe Sachdev for her tips on dressing for flying.

Do: Wear Natural Fibres

You’ll be wearing your clothing for what’s likely to be a full day, if not longer, so it’s important to pick fabrics that are light and airy. “It sounds obvious, but loose, breathable clothing in natural fibres is a no-brainer,” says Chloe. Avoid polyester, nylon and other unnatural fibres, and go for cotton, bamboo, linen and other natural fibres that are known for their breathable nature.

Jumpers made with a polyester blend are okay as they will keep you warm if you start to feel the chill from the air conditioning, but a pair of cotton or bamboo tracksuit pants or loose pants and a relaxed fit tee underneath will keep you from getting sweaty.

Sportswear Plus Fleece Pants ($70), Nike

Heads Up Sweat ($129), P.E Nation

Don’t: Look sloppy

Obviously, our comfortable tracksuits are the best choice for sleeping, but try to wear something a little more stylish if you’re angling for an upgrade. Think loose linen pants and a linen shirt, or knitwear and boots — or try Chloe’s outfit of choice. “My preferred long haul uniform is a pair of Pleats Please Issey Miyake trousers ($676) I have — they don’t wrinkle and are loose, comfortable and look smart. I pair these with a simple cotton t-shirt, cashmere jumper and big blanket-style scarf.”

Basically, go for something comfortable, since you may be sitting around in the airport for a while, but more pulled together. Then, if you do score an upgrade (or if you don’t), you can slip into your loungewear once the seatbelt sign goes off. “I try to pack my own set of pyjamas (or track pants) in my hand carry to change into to sleep in,” suggests Chloe.

Paige Knit Top ($75) and Skirt ($100), Nude Lucy

Ella Long Sleeve Knit Dress ($200), Assembly Label

Do: Wear Closed Shoes

It’s tempting to wear slides or sandals you can slip off once you’re in your seat, but closed toe shoes are actually more about safety. 

If you love the ease of slipping your shoes off, try slip-on sneakers without laces — although, if you want to stick with one pair for the whole flight but want to dress up for a possible upgrade, crisp lace-up sneakers are best.

Once it’s time for sleep, Chloe has a genius option for keeping your feet clean while walking around the cabin. “I always bring hotel bedroom slippers I’ve gotten from previous trips, and use them for my long-haul flights.”

Arlo Leather Sneaker ($130), French Connection

327 Women’s Sneakers ($159.99), New Balance

Don’t: Opt For Fitted Pants

Tights seem like a good idea but they’re really restrictive and, if they aren’t made of natural fibres, could lead to uncomfortable situations like thrush or ingrown hairs. Instead, choose tie-closure or elasticated loose pants, so your skin can breathe and you can reposition yourself through the flight comfortably

Ladina Knit Pant ($250), Bec + Bridge

Sleep Recovery Flare Pant ($39.99), Cotton On

Do: Pack Comfortable Socks

The plane socks are never ideal, often made of polyester or, on some flights, just not available. Alongside a jumper, pack your favourite socks so when you’re settling in for a sleep, you can slip them on to keep your feet warm, but not overheated.

Loungin Sock ($14.99), Cotton On