Traveling used to be seen as glamorous and a luxury, with people dressing up and getting excited about their flights. Now it is seen as more of an inconvenience we must get through in order to get to our holidays or destination.
With all the security and waiting we must go through nowadays, it’s vital that we dress sensibly and appropriately while maintaining our individual sense of style. Check with your airline and local airport what you can and can’t carry with you.
Many countries don’t allow you to take liquids through hand luggage, so that this into consideration when you are packing your makeup and toiletries. And while keeping well hydrated is important, don’t take a large drink you’re unable to finish before lining up as you’ll just have to throw it away and buy a new one once you’re through to the departure lounge.
There are many articles advising what to pack for your vacation, and what can be left behind. But we can often spend a large part said vacation travelling to and from destinations,
While we often spend too much time thinking, planning and stressing about what you’re packing in your suitcase, your actual travel attire can sometimes be forgotten about.
These tips will not only ensure you are comfortable during your trip but that you’ll also be traveling in style.
Do: Layer layer layer
The most vital tip to keep in mind is to layer up. With delays, long lines, and too high (or not functioning) air conditioning, your environment can change a lot within a space of a few hours.
If you’re wearing one chunky sweater, you’re going to be able to do a lot when you start to overheat. And with all your clothes neatly packed into your suitcase, a change of clothes is pretty unlikely too.
Experiment with different clothes before you travel, and use at least three thin different items to build up your outfit. Oversized shirts are an ideal layering option; these can be stored in your hand luggage when you want to remove them, as they fold down so small.
You can then add or remove these layers as often as you wish.
Don’t: Overdo the jewelry
Don’t overdo it with your jewels (unless this actually is comfortable for you.) While a delicate accessory will optimize most outfits, the airport isn’t the best time to be wearing your statement pieces.
With all the unclasping and removing you’ll need to be doing, it may be best to stick to a few simple pieces or none at all. If you really want to wear something fancier, keep it in a plastic bag as you go through security and put it all back on when you’re through the to departure lounge.
Do: Wear a hood
Clothing with a hood is an ideal piece of clothing for travel, especially is you are flying at night. Airports and airplanes are noisy and bustling places, so a hood can act as a great way to block this out if you want to escape it all.
Whether you want a quick nap, to listen to some headphones, or just to be left alone for a bit, flip your hood up and drown everyone out.
Don’t: Wear big boots
Feet and ankles can often swell up while travelling, so don’t make the mistake of wearing big chunky boots.
You want to be comfortable on long flights, so super high heels and restricting footwear are a no-go. I love a great leather loafer or a wedge if a I need a heel.
Do: Bring a big bag
Make the most of the luggage you’re allowed to take on board, and bring a decent sized handbag. Check your allowances with your airline, but many now let you take a small suitcase and personal bag as hand luggage.
Don’t pack anything too heavy, though, as you will be carrying this around for a while, but consider everything you’re going to need during the flight. Pack a book and some snacks, travel toiletries and a hairbrush, and all your travel documents.
Be aware of airport regulations on liquids, though, as makeup and toiletries may need to be taken in a plastic ziplock bag.
Don’t: Set off the metal detectors
Getting through security normally involves endless waiting and intense scrutiny of what you’re travelling with. To avoid annoying your fellow passengers by holding everyone up, try to avoid wearing things that will set all the detectors off.
Belts and jewelry should be easily removed, and don’t forget about the metal in unexpected items like your shoes or a hat you decide to wear that day. Your best option is to avoid wearing as many of these things as possible; it will save you a lot of time and of course the unnecessary hassle.
Do: Choose a stylish but practical suitcase
You’re going to be dragging your suitcase around for quite a while, whether it gets checked in or taken on as hand luggage. Make sure your case is sturdy and strong, with good working wheels and a comfortable handle.
Check weight and size allowances, and opt for a lighter case so that you can fit more in. Visit LoftyLuggage.com for the best airport suitcases, as many are made to fit airline standards.
Don’t: Wear too tight items
Tight clothing can be uncomfortable at the best of times.
While that bodycon dress or pencil skirt may be perfect on a night out, the airport is not the place for it. Opt for looser and more comfortable clothing instead and leave the skinny jeans in your suitcase.
Do: Wear slip on shoes
You’re probably going to have to take your shoes off as you go through security, so wear slip on shoes that are easy to remove.
Gladiators are perfect for summer holidays, but with all the buckles they can take ages to remove and put back on again. Save them for when you get to your vacation!
Don’t: Wear your flip flops
Following on from that, keep your flip flops in your bag as well.
Airplanes can be germ ridden, and you’re better off keeping your feet as comfortable and protected as possible.
Do: Wear a maxi
You still want to look stylish in the airport, but with all the rushing around, waiting on uncomfortable seating, and hanging around to collect your luggage, you want to be comfortable as well.
A long maxi dress or skirt is the ideal outfit choice, as it will give a little bit of extra space and won’t constrict you.
Don’t: Forget your travel socks
Okay, so they may not look stylish. But long haul flights can really affect your body and health, so you need to think about how to protect yourself from and dangerous affects.
Travel socks help you to avoid blood clots and issues with blood circulation. Pack them in your bag and whip them out once you’ve got comfy. They’ll also keep your feet toasty and warm when the airplane air conditioner starts to kick in
Do: Take a pashmina
A pashmina or scarf is a vital part of airport style. Not only are they a versatile accessory for most outfits, which won’t set off metal detectors, they can also act as an extra layer.
Use them as a blanket or throw when you get tired and cold, and then fold up small and store in your luggage when you don’t need it!
The main things to consider really are to ensure you are comfortable, you are dress appropriately, and that you will feel confident and at ease.
While admittedly, airports aren’t the best opportunities to be showcasing your latest fashion splurges, you will still want to feel stylish and trendy when it’s time for wheels up.
Stephanie
August 3, 2016These are very helpful.
krystel
August 3, 2016I love these tips very helpful