What Not to Wear When Travelling (From Experience)

Some outfits look perfect in the mirror at home, but quickly become wildly impractical once you’re dragging a suitcase through the snow (yes, I did that — very The Holiday of me), or sitting on a plane for hours wondering why you chose fashion over comfort. Here’s what not to wear when travelling — from personal experience.

Shoes That Are “Cute But Unbroken-In”

This is the biggest mistake I’ve made more than once. New sandals, stiff sneakers, or trendy boots might complete the outfit, but blisters don’t care how aesthetic your photos look. Walking miles a day in unfamiliar shoes is a fast way to ruin your mood — and your plans. Instead I wear shoes I’ve already walked in for weeks. Comfort first, always. Remember that!

Anything That Needs Constant Adjusting

If I’m pulling it down, fixing straps, or thinking about it every five minutes — it’s not travel-friendly. Tight tops, strapless bras, skirts that ride up, or pants that don’t stretch enough become exhausting when you’re moving all day. I would rather go for oversized tees, leggings or baggy trousers and super comfy shoes.

If you can’t forget you’re wearing it, it’s not the right choice.

Denim on a Plane (My Personal No)

I know denim is a go-to for a lot of people, and it looks effortlessly cool in travel photos — but I’ve learned it’s just not for me. Sitting for hours in jeans, dealing with waistbands that don’t stretch, and navigating temperature changes sounds like my worst nightmare.

That doesn’t mean denim is wrong— it just doesn’t work for how I like to travel. If you’re someone who feels comfortable and relaxed in jeans, go for it. I’ve just learned that planes are not the place for anything restrictive for me. I need to breaaathe!

What I Wear Instead

When it comes to flying, I prioritise pieces that move with me and feel good from takeoff to landing:

• Soft trousers or wide-leg pants with stretch

• Matching lounge sets that still feel put together

• Oversized knits or sweatshirts for warmth

• Layers I can easily add or remove

I want to be able to sit, sleep, walk, and move without thinking about what I’m wearing — and that’s become my non-negotiable.

Airport style doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. Looking good is great, but feeling comfortable, relaxed, and like yourself is what actually makes travel enjoyable.

I’ve learned to dress for the journey, not just the Instagram photo — and honestly, I’ve never looked back.

Accessories That Actually Matter

Comfort doesn’t mean you can’t accessorise. These are my tried-and-true travel essentials:

• Slip-on shoes – Easy for security checks and walking long distances.

• A large scarf – Doubles as a blanket or a pillow

• Crossbody bag or small backpack – Keeps essentials within reach without having to put it in the overhead compartment

• Compression socks – Small detail, big difference for long flights

These little extras make the difference between a stressful travel day and a smooth one.

If you’re packing for a trip and struggling with what to wear on the plane, think of it as “layering for moods and temps.” Airports are cold, planes are colder, and cities can be scorching (depending on the season of course)  Layers + soft fabrics + easy shoes = no regrets.

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