Whether you love or hate them, airports are often necessary for speedy travel between long distances. Flying is the most popular travel method for lengthy distances, resulting in frequently crowded airports and airplanes. Major dislike for airports and airplanes usually stems from crowds, uncomfortable seats, and dealing with airport security. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to combat the dreary tediousness of dealing with airports and airplanes, many of which involve your wardrobe. Your comfort highly relies on what you’re wearing, and when traveling via plane, you will want to prioritize comfort over appearance.
Accessorize Less
Whether flying domestically or internationally, you must travel through airport security. Unless you’ve paid for TSA pre-check services, you must remove your shoes, electronics, and liquids. You’ll be busy during airport security, so you shouldn’t have to worry about eliminating jewelry, watches, piercings, complicated shoes, and any other accessories you might wear. With modern airports’ body scanning machines, you usually don’t have to remove piercings or jewelry; however, bulky accessories may still need removal, and removal policies may vary from airport to airport. Older airports that still have metal detection technology may require the removal of all accessories. To be prepared, accessorize less, especially if your accessories are made of any kind of metal.
Ditch the Heavy Makeup
Many airport trips are long and full of heavy physical activity. Getting little sleep before your flight is common due to early departure times or travel anxiety. If you have a full face of makeup, it can quickly become smeared or irritating when you’re tired and want to sleep. It can burn if makeup gets into your eyes from rubbing or excessive yawning. You won’t always have access to a bathroom to wash your face or rinse your eyes, as the airplane seatbelt sign is often turned on. Consider wearing light or no makeup while you travel through the airport for peak comfort. Your travel days aren’t a beauty contest, and you can focus on dressing up later on your trip.
Jackets or Coats
If you’re traveling in colder weather or are easily chilled, you will likely want to wear at least one coat or jacket. Unfortunately, winter coats or heavy jackets can take up a lot of luggage space you cannot spare. Seasoned travelers often recommend wearing or carrying your bulkiest clothing on the plane to save room in your suitcase. You can consider this option if you don’t mind wearing a heavier clothing item throughout the airport or on your flight. On the bonus side, an oversized coat can turn into a makeshift airplane blanket for a more comfortable flight.
Shirts or Tops
Your torso should be fully covered for your comfort and that of others; airports and airplanes can be drafty, so exposed skin may be unwise. If you overheat easily, a short-sleeve or sleeveless shirt may be beneficial. Consider bringing layers, like a hoodie or sweater, in case of air conditioning drafts. You’ll also be outside once you arrive, so consider the weather and temperature there. Comfort and convenience are critical features; a simple, soft shirt can go a long way on any flight. Some opt for unique patterns or vibrant colors, like shirts made by Armed American Supply, to help chauffeurs or loved ones spot them easier at baggage claim.
Pocketed Pants
You can wear shorts or pants depending on the weather of your destination and your tendency to overheat or feel chilled. However, you’ll likely be juggling a lot of items like your identification, wallet, boarding pass, phone, and any handheld entertainment during long flights. Pockets can reduce the weight of your carry-on luggage and give you a convenient place to reach for frequently used items like your phone or wallet.
Put Your Hair Up
Consider putting any long hair in a hat or tying it up loosely. A loose bun, ponytail, or braid will unlikely cause discomfort, but leaving your hair down may annoy you or others. When you flip, toss, or brush your hair to the side, long hair can often disrupt an airplane seat neighbor behind you.
Walking Shoes
Some airports are miles long between each end, and you’ll walk through at least two if you don’t have additional stops. You will want roomy and comfortable shoes to walk and sit in. They should also be easy to remove to get through airport security quickly. Socks are more sanitary for airport security as well.
Glasses Over Contacts
If you wear glasses or contacts and get tired quickly on the plane, opt for glasses only. Sleeping with contacts is unhealthy, as you can dry out your eyes and cause discomfort. Contacts can irritate you over long periods, and you won’t always have access to a bathroom to adjust them.
Hang Loose
Wear loose clothing instead of skin-tight fits. Tight clothing can be uncomfortable and cause skin irritation with heavy walking. Excessively loose clothing may also have the same effect, so make sure you can walk and sit comfortably in your chosen outfit.
Stylishly Soft
Choose comfortable clothing for your airport travel day. Rough or coarse materials like wool, tweed, or synthetic fabrics can cause skin irritation and anxiety, leading to discomfort. Soft materials, like cotton, silk, or cashmere, can promote comfort and relaxation, allowing you to relax (or sleep) more easily on the plane. Everyone has different clothing preferences, so you’ll want a comfortable and relaxing material for your personal tastes.
