10 Things You Should Never Wear on a Plane

what not to wear on plane

People these days have gone wild with their fashion sense, but sometimes they forget that they’re going to be sitting in a cramped metal tube for hours on end with other passengers. I mean, seriously, have they never heard of “appropriate attire”? You’d think it would be common sense, but apparently not.

From obnoxious graphic tees to revealing shorts, there’s no shortage of cringe-worthy clothing choices on planes. And don’t even get me started on the people who wear pajamas in public.

The solution to this problem is simple – use some common sense and dress for comfort, not for a fashion show. Opt for loose-fitting clothes, breathable fabrics, and comfortable shoes.

You don’t want to be stuck in skin-tight jeans for a ten-hour flight or hobbling around in stilettos. And for the love of all that is good, leave the graphic tees and crop tops at home. Nobody wants to see your “clever” pun about pizza or your midriff.

If you’re still not convinced, I urge you to read the full article. Not only will you learn about the dos and don’ts of plane attire , but you’ll also get some tips on how to make your flight more comfortable.

Trust me, you’ll thank me later when you’re not sweating bullets in your skinny jeans or trying to cram your suitcase into the overhead bin while wearing three-inch heels.

1. Jewelry or bulky accessories

Picture this: you’re getting ready for your flight, putting on your fanciest outfit to impress your fellow passengers. You reach for your favorite statement necklace, the one that always gets compliments, but before you can clasp it around your neck, a voice in your head screams, “No, don’t do it!”

Yes, I’m here to tell you why you should not wear jewelry or bulky accessories on a plane. First of all, let’s talk about the obvious – security. Do you really want to be the person holding up the line at the TSA checkpoint because you decided to deck yourself out like a Christmas tree? Trust me, those bins are already overflowing with shoes and laptops, and the last thing we need is your jingle-jangle accessories adding to the chaos.

But that’s not the only reason. Think about it – you’re sitting in a cramped seat for hours on end, trying to get some shut-eye, when suddenly, your dangling earrings get caught on your neighbor’s sweater. Next thing you know, you’re both stuck together like Velcro and attracting attention from everyone around you.

And let’s not forget the biggest hazard of them all – turbulence. One minute you’re admiring the sparkle of your diamond bracelet, and the next, it’s flying off your wrist like a rogue missile, endangering the safety of everyone on board.

So, my advice to you is this – save the bling for your destination. Your fellow passengers and flight crew will thank you for it, and you’ll arrive at your destination looking like a million bucks (minus the potential bruises and scratches from your jewelry mishaps).

2. Uncomfortable bra

We all know that flying can be uncomfortable enough without having to deal with a bra that’s digging into your ribcage like a medieval torture device. So, let me tell you why you should not wear an uncomfortable bra on a plane, and what you can wear instead.

It’s a common experience to be stuck in a middle seat between two strangers, desperately trying to adjust our bra straps without drawing attention to ourselves. Trust me, the last thing you want to deal with when you’re already feeling cramped and uncomfortable is a bra that’s cutting off your circulation.

But that’s not the only reason. Think about the dreaded “plane nap.” You’re finally starting to drift off, your neck pillow is in place, and then… BAM! You wake up to find that your bra has shifted to an uncomfortable position, and you’re left trying to discreetly rearrange everything without causing a scene.

So, what’s the solution? The answer is simple – a wireless or sports bra. These bad boys are designed to keep you supported without sacrificing comfort, making them the perfect choice for your next flight. Plus, you won’t have to worry about underwires digging into your skin or awkward bra straps peeking out from your shirt.

And if you’re feeling fancy, you can always opt for a bralette or a soft bralette to add a touch of style without sacrificing comfort. Now, your fellow passengers will be jealous of your laid-back airport style, and you’ll be able to enjoy your flight without any bra-related discomfort.

3. High heels, flip-flops and slides

It’s time to talk about why you should not wear high heels, flip-flops, or slides on a plane.

Let’s start with high heels, shall we? I know, I know, they make your legs look fabulous and boost your confidence to new heights. But here’s the thing – you’re not walking down the runway; you’re walking down the aisle of a plane. And those narrow, winding walkways are not the place to test your balance skills in stilettos. One misstep and you could be falling into your fellow passenger’s lap, or worse, into the overhead bin.

Now, let’s talk about flip-flops and slides. Sure, they’re easy to slip on and off at security, but that’s where the convenience ends. Once you’re on the plane, you’re left with cold, dirty floors and zero arch support. Plus, if you have to make a quick exit in an emergency, you’re risking injury or losing your shoes altogether.

So, what’s the solution? Opt for comfortable, closed-toe shoes that will keep your feet warm and protected. Sneakers, loafers, and boots are all great options that will keep you stylish and comfortable during your flight. Plus, you won’t have to worry about tripping, falling, or getting your toes stepped on by your fellow passengers.

Here’s a bonus tip – compression socks. These will keep your feet and legs feeling fresh and prevent swelling during long flights. Plus, you’ll look like a pro traveler who knows how to take care of themselves.

4. Offensive clothing

So what’s the deal about offensive clothing? I’m talking about anything that could be considered vulgar, racist, or just plain rude. Look, I get it – you want to express yourself and make a statement. But when you’re on a plane, you’re in a confined space with people from all over the world, and not everyone shares your sense of humor. So that t-shirt with a profanity-laced joke or a politically-charged statement? Yeah, leave it at home.

Let’s move on to the issue of revealing clothing. Again, I understand that you want to be comfortable and show off that beach body you’ve been working on. But here’s the thing – not everyone on the plane is going to appreciate your skimpy outfit. Different cultures have different standards when it comes to modesty, and you don’t want to offend anyone with your booty shorts or crop top.

The solution is easy: be considerate of your fellow passengers and their cultural backgrounds. Choose clothing that is comfortable and appropriate for a cramped area, without being too revealing or offensive. And if you’re not sure if your outfit is appropriate, just ask yourself – would I wear this to meet my significant other’s parents? If the answer is no, then it’s probably not suitable for a plane.

5. Contact lenses

Attention all contact lens wearers! It’s time to talk about why you should not wear your contacts on a plane. And no, I’m not just saying this because I’m secretly in cahoots with the eyeglasses industry – I promise.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – ” I need my contacts to see! I can’t just take them out for a whole flight!” And while I sympathize with your vision woes, let me paint you a picture. You’re cruising at 30,000 feet, and suddenly your eyes start feeling dry and itchy. You rub them, but it only makes it worse. You reach for your eye drops, but they’re in your checked bag. Panic sets in. You’re stuck with uncomfortable eyes for the rest of the flight.

But that’s not even the worst part. Did you know that the air inside an airplane is super dry? Like, drier than a desert kind of dry. And when you wear contacts in that kind of environment, they can actually absorb the moisture from your eyes, making them even drier and more uncomfortable. Plus, the air on a plane is full of all kinds of fun stuff, like germs and allergens, which can get trapped under your contact lenses and cause all sorts of eye issues.

It is best to pack a pair of eyeglasses in your carry-on luggage if you wear contacts, or you could always wear your glasses on the flight. Sure, they might make you look like a nerdy librarian, but they won’t dry out your eyes or give you any weird eye infections.

6. Perfume and cologne

Ah, the sweet smell of…regret? That’s what you’ll be experiencing if you’re one of those people who insist on wearing perfume or cologne on a plane. And let me tell you, there are few things more irritating than being stuck on a long flight with someone who smells like they bathed in a vat of perfume.

Some people are just more sensitive to strong smells than others, and being trapped on a plane with someone wearing an overpowering scent can be a nightmare. And don’t even get me started on the poor flight attendants, who have to endure that scent for hours on end.

But it’s not just about the scent sensitivity – there’s also the issue of personal space. When you’re on a plane, you’re in a confined space with dozens of other people. And when you wear perfume or cologne, that scent can quickly invade other people’s personal space. It’s like a boundary violation in olfactory form.

And let’s not forget about the potential health risks. Many perfumes and colognes contain synthetic chemicals that can trigger allergies or asthma attacks in some people. So not only are you being obnoxious, but you could also be putting other passengers at risk.

To avoid any potential confrontations, just don’t wear perfume or cologne on a plane. Opt for a light, unscented body lotion or skip the fragrance altogether. And if you’re really worried about smelling fresh, just bring a travel-sized deodorant with you and call it a day.

7. Large coats

I must implore you to avoid wearing large coats on a plane. Not only do they take up valuable space and create a nuisance for fellow passengers, but they can also pose a serious safety hazard.

First and foremost, let’s talk about space. Airplane cabins are notoriously cramped, with limited overhead bin space and tight seating arrangements. By bringing a large coat onboard, you are adding unnecessary bulk to an already tight space. This can create a domino effect, leading to a cascade of passengers struggling to find room for their belongings, and potentially causing significant delays in the boarding process.

Moreover, wearing an oversized coat can restrict your movement, making it difficult to move around the cabin or reach your belongings. In an emergency situation, this could be catastrophic. In the event of an evacuation, every second counts. By wearing a large coat, you may inadvertently put yourself and others at risk by impeding the quick and safe exit from the plane.

In addition to the practical concerns, there are also hygiene considerations to keep in mind. Wearing a bulky coat for extended periods of time can cause you to overheat, sweat, and shed skin cells, all of which can contribute to unpleasant odors and germs. This can be especially problematic in a confined space where fresh air is at a premium.

Instead of wearing a large coat, consider layering lighter garments that can be easily removed or stored. A lightweight jacket, sweater, or scarf can provide warmth without taking up valuable space.

If you want to enhance your travel experience, you may consider asking the flight attendants for a cozy blanket or a refreshing warm towel. This simple request can make your flight more comfortable and enjoyable.

8. White jeans

Wearing white jeans on a flight is like walking a tightrope over a pit of mud – it may look impressive, but one misstep and you’re in for a messy disaster.

Imagine strolling through the airport in your pristine white jeans, feeling like a fashion icon. You board the plane, settle into your seat, and maybe even enjoy a pre-flight beverage. But then, disaster strikes. The passenger next to you accidentally spills their tomato juice, and suddenly your white jeans are no longer white. In fact, they’re a lovely shade of pink.

Or perhaps you accidentally brush against the not-so-clean airplane bathroom door, leaving an unsightly smear on your previously pristine pants. Not exactly the chic look you were going for, huh?

So, as tempting as it may be to show off your fashion-forward white jeans on a flight, I urge you to reconsider. Instead, opt for darker colors or patterns that will better hide any potential stains or spills.

9. Leggings

I completely understand that leggings are a popular and comfortable choice for many travelers. However, it’s important to consider the potential risks associated with this type of clothing, especially in the case of an emergency.

The truth is, in the event of an emergency, leggings made from artificial fibers are more likely to burn and stick to your skin, causing serious burns and potentially putting your life at risk.

While it may seem like a small inconvenience to change into a different outfit before boarding your flight, it’s important to remember that safety should always be the top priority. Taking a few extra minutes to choose appropriate clothing could make all the difference in the event of an emergency situation.

So, while leggings may seem like a comfortable and convenient choice for air travel, it’s important to consider the potential risks and prioritize your safety above all else. Opt for clothing made from non-flammable materials and always follow the safety guidelines provided by your airline to ensure a safe and enjoyable flight.

10. Shorts

If you are going to a beach destination or a tropical climate, shorts may seem like a good idea. But when it comes to air travel, shorts are not recommended.

While shorts may seem like the perfect choice for staying cool on a plane, there are actually a few reasons why you might want to rethink this wardrobe choice.

First and foremost, planes can be notoriously chilly, especially during long flights. While you may be feeling warm and toasty before takeoff, the temperature in the cabin can drop significantly once you’re up in the air. Shorts might leave your legs feeling cold and uncomfortable during the flight.

In addition, shorts may not be the most hygienic option for air travel. Airplanes can be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria, and shorts can leave your skin exposed to potentially dirty surfaces like seats and tray tables. This can increase your risk of picking up a nasty cold or flu bug while in the air.

Lastly, depending on the length and fit of your shorts, you may find them less comfortable during a long flight than you would a looser, more flexible pant or jogger. These types of pants can allow for more movement and less restriction, while still keeping you comfortable and cool.

FAQs

Is there a dress code for passengers on airplanes?

Many air carriers do not have explicit rules on attire for passengers and often permit them to dress comfortably. However, it is essential to consider certain protocols to ensure a secure and comfortable flight for everyone aboard.

For instance, clothing should not be too revealing or offensive and must not interfere with flight safety. Therefore, avoid garments with inappropriate language or graphics, skimpy outfits, or cumbersome accessories that may entangle in the seat or obstruct the aisle.

Moreover, dressing in layers and comfortable, breathable attire is wise, as aircraft cabins can be notoriously chilly. It is also practical to wear shoes that can be effortlessly slipped on and off as they can make passing through security and settling into the flight much easier.

Although a rigid dress code for passengers on flights does not exist, using sound judgment and taking into account the comfort and safety of oneself and those around is a sensible approach. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a pleasurable and hassle-free flight for everyone aboard.

Should passengers dress more conservatively when flying?

When it comes to dressing for air travel, opinions are divided. While some people believe that passengers should dress conservatively, others argue that there’s no need for a specific dress code. Airlines themselves typically don’t have specific rules on what passengers can wear, except for situations where certain clothing is deemed unsafe or inappropriate.

The debate over what to wear on a plane is rooted in the belief that air travel is a shared space, and passengers should dress respectfully. However, what’s considered “conservative” can vary widely depending on cultural and individual norms. In some cultures, traditional attire is completely acceptable, while in others, it may be seen as inappropriate.

While dressing conservatively may make some passengers feel more professional and prepared for their journey, others prefer to wear more casual clothing that allows for greater comfort. And with the rise of athleisure wear, many travelers opt for stretchy leggings or joggers over dress pants or skirts.

Is it safe to wear a hat on a plane?

Many passengers are concerned about what they can and cannot wear on a plane. One popular accessory that often raises questions is the humble hat. While hats can be a great way to add some flair to your travel outfit or cover up a bad hair day, there are important considerations to keep in mind before donning one on a flight.

According to industry experts, the type of hat you wear and how you wear it can impact your safety on a plane. Wide-brimmed hats or those with embellishments may be more likely to get caught on something or bump into other passengers during the flight, potentially causing a safety hazard. On the other hand, simpler hats like baseball caps or beanies are less bulky and less likely to cause issues.

However, wearing a hat on a plane can also have its benefits. For those looking to catch some shut-eye on a long-haul flight, a hat can provide some much-needed privacy and block out light. Additionally, hats can be a useful tool for sun protection during travel to sunny destinations.

Are there any materials that are particularly unsafe to wear on a plane?

Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon may seem like a comfortable choice for travel, but they could actually cause serious harm in the event of an emergency. Experts have warned that these materials can melt and stick to your skin in high temperatures, causing severe burns and injuries.

So, what can you do to protect yourself? It’s simple: opt for natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool. These materials are less likely to melt or stick to your skin in the event of a fire or other emergency situation. Plus, they tend to be more comfortable on long-haul flights.

Final Thoughts

listen music on plane

It might seem like a pain, but it’s totally worth it to consider your comfort, safety, and destination when picking out your outfit. First off, steer clear of anything that’s too tight or constricting. You don’t want to spend the whole flight feeling cramped up in your seat, right?

And don’t forget about your shoes! Make sure to choose something that’s easy to slip on and off. Believe me, it’s a real hassle trying to untie your shoelaces while juggling your carry-on and digging for your boarding pass. Oh, and one more thing – avoid wearing anything with metal accessories like buckles or buttons, unless you want to trigger the metal detectors.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll have a much smoother and more enjoyable flight. So go ahead and dress for comfort and safety, and enjoy the journey!

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