From our summers spent in San Sebastián to our winter ski trips in Big Sky, travel is one of my favorite topics to share about. It brings me so much joy to hear how my travel tips or packing lists are helpful when you’re planning vacations or how you were able to find the perfect outfit from my travel capsule wardrobe. So today I’m going to chat about a similar topic that I’m actually surprised I’ve never touched on before – comfortable airport outfits!
Whether I’m prepping for a long haul or a quick flight, my outfit goal is always the same – to find a balance between comfort and style. With all of the stressors that often come along with flying (schedule changes, delays, lugging around bags, etc.), the last thing I want to do is to add discomfort to this list. However, I also like to feel put together. Below you’ll find some of my go-to outfit formulas and dressing tips for travel days!
What to Wear on a Flight
When you’re trying to decide what to wear on a flight, keep in mind all of the things you’ll likely be doing that day or night. Not only will you be sitting on a plane (most likely with minimal space), but you also might find yourself making trips to a cramped restroom, walking long distances, sleeping in your seat, or even running across the airport (guilty!) Needless to say, choosing comfortable airport outfits is key.Â
However, this doesn’t mean you have to abandon your sense of style. In fact, I’ve heard that looking put together on a plane might actually help you get an upgrade! And it’s certainly possible to look chic while staying comfy.Â
Tips for Creating Comfortable Airport Outfits
I’m going to share a lot of comfortable airport outfits below, but I also wanted to highlight a few dressing tips for travel days that I’ve learned over the years. Following these guidelines helps me put together the perfect cozy and elevated combo!
- Layering is key. While planes are generally fairly cool, I’ve had a couple of experiences in which I was so happy that I had layers I could peel off. It’s also very common for the destination temps to different from your departure temps. Wearing a layered look is super helpful in these situations.
- Wear comfy shoes. This is a no-brainer. You might be wearing the softest outfit, but if your feet are in pain, it won’t make a bit of difference. Personally, I typically opt for a nice tennis shoe on travel days. Or, if it’s a shorter trip, I will sometimes wear my Stubbs & Wootton shoes. Additionally, I have a high arch, so using insoles in my shoes has been a game changer for me. I buy mine at Fit2Run, and they make almost any tennis shoe comfortable.
- Invest in quality loungewear. Matching sets, joggers, and pullovers all make for comfortable airport outfits. And yes, you can find tons of them on Amazon, and there’s nothing wrong with that! But if you travel often, especially on long flights, I highly recommend splurging on a few great lounge pieces. Some of my favorite brands for this include Vuori, Varley, and Rhone. They’re pieces are easy to mix and match, wearable at home and on the road, and so soft!
8 Comfortable Airport Outfits
Now on to the fun part! I’ve put together eight chic and comfortable airport outfits that are perfect for a day of travel. These are almost all pieces that I own, love, and highly recommend. And if I don’t yet have them, they’re on my wish list!
It’s likely you already have some version of a few of these pieces in your closet. As always, you can use what you have to recreate these outfit formulas, and maybe shop for a few new things here and there to fill in the gaps. I hope these ideas help mark one item off of your travel checklist during your next adventure!
1. Jogger Matching Set
The return of the tracksuit is a welcomed one! Nowadays it’s so easy to find chic lounge sets. Plus, any monochromatic outfit instantly looks classic, in my opinion. This seems to be especially true with track suits.
I own and love Rhone’s Dreamglow jogger and half-zip. The pieces are incredibly soft, and they also look stylish, making this set a win-win! There are currently four equally pretty color options, and I wouldn’t mind having one of each. I love how the blush pink looks with these Hoff Sneakers. This shoe brand became a go-to for me after discovering them in Spain last year. I add my insoles for extra comfort. If I’m only able to pack one pair of tennis shoes during a trip, these are the ones!
2. Button-Down + Pull-On Pants
When traveling, I like to wear fabrics with a bit of stretch, especially when it comes to pants. The navy Rylie pants from J.McLaughlin are one of the pairs I reach for most often on travel days. They offer a bit of compression, but are still comfortable and stylish.
On top, I love to start with a simple white tee or tank. Then, I often follow up with a button-down. These linen shirts are always my go-to! You could pair this with a trusty pair of flats and simple jewelry for an elevated airport look.
3. Sweater + Joggers
A great pair of joggers can be used for lots of comfortable airport outfits. You can certainly pair them with a coordinating sweatshirt, but sometimes I like to change it up and wear joggers with a nicer sweater. I think this combo really elevates the look!
If you scroll down a bit, you’ll actually see an image of me wearing this exact outfit. I love the pops of green that this belt bag and these sneakers add to the look. These Adidas shoes are one of my most-worn pairs for days spent running errands and also when traveling. I paired them with these cute ruffle socks from Amazon, which I also wear non-stop! However, I do want to note…I always switch to these bamboo compression socks for longer flights.Â
4. Jeans + Tee + Cashmere Wrap
I know denim isn’t at the top of everyone’s list when it comes to comfortable airport outfits. But personally, I think the right pair of jeans can be really comfy! So I do occasionally wear a great pair of denim when traveling.
My favorite pair of jeans to wear on a plane continues to be this high-rise straight-leg style. I’ve worn these for years, both for daily wear and on travel days. They deliver such a great 90s vibe!
Two other staples that are in heavy rotation when traveling include this pointelle tee and this cashmere wrap. The wrap comes in so many beautiful colors and also doubles as a blanket. I honestly never travel without one. If I’m not wearing it, then it’s packed in my suitcase to use if I have a spill or upon arrival to the destination!
5. Trouser Matching Set
Rhone’s DreamGlow mock neck pullover and trousers are having a moment, and I’m certainly not mad about it. Not only is this monochromatic set extremely soft and cozy, but it also has such an elevated look. It’s one of my current favorite airport outfits!
This set would look great with these classic Gola sneakers. I’ve been so impressed with how comfy these shoes are. While I wouldn’t necessarily wear them for working out, they’re great for days spent traveling or touring a new destination. Just a heads up, I would recommend sizing down a half a size in these sneakers. Also, how adorable is this “less is more” hat!?
6. Activewear Set + Pullover
Similar to the mixed feelings many people have regarding the comfort level of wearing jeans, the same can be said for leggings. However, I know that some women actually prefer leggings over joggers or sweats. So I wanted to be sure to include some comfortable airport outfits featuring leggings!
Not only do I love the color of these leggings and matching sports bra, but the material is incredibly soft. They have a seamless fit, and are truly buttery smooth! You could layer a simple tee and this fleece half-zip on top for a chic monochromatic look. Oh, and don’t forget to pack a favorite pair of sunnies when traveling!
7. Button-Down + Sweater + Cropped Pants
This layered look combines some of my most-worn closet staples. I’ve had these cropped flare pants for years, and they continue to be a favorite, especially on travel days. They’re basically a polished version of leggings! While they come in a variety of colors, I like to select dark colors when traveling because spills are so common while up in the air. Plus, the navy matches almost any top!
Speaking of tops, this white button-down is such a great basic that I own it in multiple colors. And if I’m not wearing a cashmere wrap, then I typically have a sweater draped around my neck, ready to use as needed. This pretty green cardigan has been a g0-to for me lately!
8. Sweater Matching Set
Last, but not least, a cozy sweater set! Can you tell that matching sets are at the top of my list when it comes to comfy airport looks? If you scroll up, you’ll see me wearing this exact set in an image towards the top of this post. It’s a great, quality sweater material, and I love the fit of this one! The pullover top features a tie-waist, which is unique and flattering, and the bottoms have a chic middle seam.Â
This set looks great with a simple navy and white sneaker and a classic pair of sunglasses. Oh, and looking at my picture reminds me that I should also call out the fact that I always like to wear my Oura Ring when traveling. I love the insight that it provides into my health, especially on “off days”!
Favorite Travel-Day Bags
There are three main bags that I like to rotate for airport days. I typically select them after considering the length of the flight, who I’ll be traveling with, etc.
First up is my tried and true Longchamp travel bag. It has a button and zip closure, a detachable shoulder strap, and it’s expandable, which allows you to squeeze a lot inside without taking up a ton of room!Â
If I’m traveling alone, or if it’s just me and the kids, I always like to carry a sling bag. I pack our passports, my phone, and my cards inside. Knowing that I have these attached across my chest helps ease my anxiety a bit. This Italian leather handwoven sling bag is so chic and such a great price for the quality!
Lastly, I will forever be a fan of traveling with an L.L. Bean Tote! There are so many color and size options, and it’s always fun to personalize them. I do recommend choosing one that has a zipper for travel days.
Chic & Comfortable Airport Outfits
If you have upcoming travel plans, I hope these comfortable airport outfits help provide some inspiration on what to wear. Not only are these looks perfect for flights, but they’re also wonderful for road trips and daily wear (running errands, school pickup, etc.).Â
