As a seasoned travel writer, navigating airports and long flights is practically part of my routine. With countless miles flown to diverse destinations from vibrant Vietnam to the icy landscapes of Greenland, I’ve learned that comfort during travel is non-negotiable. Over the years, I’ve refined my go-to travel uniform: a comfortable yet chic airport outfit formula that works for almost any destination. It’s all about selecting relaxed, versatile staples, from supportive footwear to the perfect tee and a stylish bomber jacket. If you’re looking to master the art of travel comfort without sacrificing style, read on for my tried-and-true essentials that will ensure you look and feel your best, every journey.
Essential Comfortable Shoes for Travel
Comfortable Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles sneakers in grey, ideal travel footwear for women
Supportive and comfortable shoes are the absolute foundation of any great travel outfit. When it comes to airport travel, sneakers are my constant companions. They provide the necessary comfort for rushing through terminals and are sock-friendly, which is essential if you need to remove your shoes at security checkpoints. Recently, a podiatrist recommended Allbirds, highlighting their lightweight design and exceptional cushioning. The Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles are a personal favorite because they are also water-resistant. This feature is incredibly practical, making them suitable for various terrains and unexpected weather conditions upon arrival.
For those seeking a versatile white sneaker, Vejas are a stylish alternative that pairs well with almost anything. Kiziks are another excellent choice, offering sneaker-like support with the convenience of a slip-on design. The hands-free entry is a game-changer for swiftly navigating airport security lines.
More Comfortable and Stylish Shoe Options:
Stylish and supportive Hoka Clifton 9 sneakers in white and blue, ideal for walking and travel for women
Modern and versatile New Balance 327 sneakers in grey and white, a fashionable travel shoe choice for women
Convenient and supportive Kiziks Irvine slip-on sneakers in black, perfect for easy airport transitions for women
Classic and chic Veja V-10 sneakers in white and black, a stylish and eco-conscious travel shoe for women
Sporty and comfortable Lululemon Cityverse sneakers in white, a lightweight and cushioned option for women's travel
Sleek and ethical Banana Republic Vegan Leather sneakers in white, a fashionable and comfortable travel choice for women
Versatile and Comfortable Pants for Travel
Wrinkle-resistant and tailored Aday Turn It Up Pants in black, ideal for comfortable yet stylish travel for women
A dependable pair of black pants is a cornerstone of my travel wardrobe. Black serves as a neutral backdrop that coordinates effortlessly with various tops and, crucially, hides any inevitable travel stains or wrinkles. My preferred travel pants are the Aday Turn It Up Pants for several reasons. They offer pajama-like comfort while maintaining a tailored silhouette, ensuring they look polished enough for dinner upon arrival. The wrinkle-resistant fabric is also a major advantage after hours spent sitting on a plane.
Similar stylish and comfortable options include Banana Republic’s Ponte pants, known for their stretch and versatility, suitable for both casual and more dressed-up occasions. Everlane’s Easy Pant provides another relaxed yet refined alternative. While I used to avoid sweatpants for airport attire, the evolution of sleek joggers has changed my perspective. Well-designed joggers, particularly for long-haul flights, have earned a place in my travel rotation. Cozy Earth CityScape sweatpants and the incredibly soft Vuori Performance Jogger are standouts, especially when paired with a bomber jacket for a balanced look.
More Comfortable and Stylish Pant Options:
Lightweight and breathable Baleaf women's joggers in grey, perfect for comfortable travel and active wear
Relaxed and stylish Everlane The Easy Pant in beige, a comfortable and versatile option for women's travel
Luxuriously soft and comfortable Cozy Earth CityScape sweatpants in grey, ideal for long flights and relaxed travel
Trendy and comfortable Daily Practice by Anthropologie Base Jump Parachute Pants in khaki, a stylish and relaxed travel pant for women
Sporty and soft Vuori Performance Jogger in black, a versatile and comfortable pant for travel and workouts for women
Tailored and comfortable Banana Republic Crop Flare Everywhere Ponte Pant in black, a versatile and stylish travel pant for women
Ultra-soft and comfortable Spanx AirEssentials wide leg pants in black, perfect for luxurious travel comfort for women
The Essential Travel Tee
Versatile and flattering Madewell Supima Rib Tee in white, a wardrobe staple for women's travel outfits
Perhaps the most versatile item in my entire wardrobe is the simple white tee. The Madewell Supima Rib Tee is a favorite due to its flattering fit and incredible versatility. It’s the perfect layering piece under blazers, bomber jackets, or worn alone with jeans, joggers, or skirts. It effortlessly transitions from casual daytime looks to more polished evening ensembles. As an added benefit, it doubles as an excellent base layer under cardigans and button-down shirts, maximizing suitcase space and outfit options. Another tee that stands out is the Aday Made It T-shirt. This option is wrinkle-free, stretchy, and even provides UV protection, making it exceptionally practical for travel.
More Versatile and Comfortable Tee Options:
Soft and breathable Vuori Energy Tee in grey, a comfortable and stylish t-shirt for women's travel and active wear
Classic and comfortable Everlane Organic Cotton Box-Cut Tee in white, a sustainable and versatile travel t-shirt for women
Wrinkle-free and UV protective Aday Made It T-shirt in white, a high-performance and practical travel tee for women
Classic and essential Banana Republic Timeless T-Shirt in grey, a versatile and affordable travel tee for women
Soft and versatile Banana Republic ribbed scoop-neck tank top in white, a great layering piece for women's travel outfits
Lightweight and breathable Artfish women's Scoop-neck sleeveless shirt in white, a comfortable and cool option for travel in warmer climates
Relaxed and breathable Banana Republic linen-cotton t-shirt in white, a comfortable and stylish option for warm weather travel
Elegant and versatile Banana Republic silky cotton button-down shirt in white, a sophisticated layering piece for travel outfits
Stylish and casual J.Crew Wren Slim Western Chambray shirt in blue, a versatile and durable shirt for women's travel
The Stylish Bomber Jacket for Travel
Comfortable and versatile Marine Layer men's Rossland Dry Wax Bomber jacket in green, a stylish and practical travel jacket for women
I often prefer men’s jackets for travel due to their relaxed fit and comfortable oversized feel. This Marine Layer bomber jacket, borrowed from my husband, is a prime example that I have no intention of returning. Its roomy yet flattering silhouette is lightweight but provides ample warmth against airplane AC. The water-repellent coating adds another layer of practicality, especially when transitioning between different climates. For those who prefer a more traditionally feminine style, options like the oversized Lululemon bomber jacket or the sporty, water-repellent Athleta Jetset Bomber are excellent women’s specific alternatives.
More Stylish and Comfortable Jacket Options:
Lightweight and versatile Lululemon Lightweight Hem-cinch Bomber Jacket in olive green, a stylish and adjustable travel jacket for women
Sporty and water-repellent Athleta Jetset Bomber in black, a functional and stylish travel jacket for active women
Trendy and comfortable Alo Yoga Mixed Media Reinvention Jacket in black and grey, a fashionable and versatile travel jacket for women
Affordable and classic Zeagoo women's Classic Bomber Jacket in black, a budget-friendly and stylish travel jacket option
Reliable and Spacious Luggage for Travel
Durable and stylish Away The Bigger Carry-on luggage in black, a popular and functional choice for carry-on travel
Versatile and functional Away Everywhere Tote bag in black nylon, a perfect personal item for travel
I can’t recall a flight in the past five years without my Away Bigger Carry-On and Everywhere Tote. As a devoted carry-on traveler, avoiding checked baggage is always the goal, and these two bags make it achievable. The Bigger Carry-On impressively fits up to two weeks of clothing and maneuvers effortlessly through airports. It’s designed to meet the maximum carry-on size restrictions for most airlines, and even if it needs to be gate-checked on smaller planes, it’s done without any extra charge. I personally use the original hardside version, but the recently released Softside Bigger Carry-On is another great option depending on personal preference. The Everywhere Tote is the ideal personal item companion, accommodating all my necessities, including my 13-inch laptop. I appreciate the thoughtful design features like the strap that secures it to the carry-on handle and the top zipper, which keeps everything contained when placed under the seat.
More Reliable and Stylish Luggage Options:
Lightweight and durable Monos Carry-on luggage in grey, a sleek and functional option for carry-on travel
Stylish and functional Béis The Carry-On Roller luggage in beige, a fashionable and practical option for carry-on travel
Lightweight and innovative July Carry-On Light luggage in silver, a minimalist and functional choice for carry-on travel
Durable and spacious Samsonite Freeform carry-on spinner luggage in white, a reliable and expandable option for carry-on travel
Essential Compression Socks for Long Flights
Supportive Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks in black, essential for women's travel comfort and circulation on long flights
After experiencing leg swelling and discomfort on a 13+ hour flight from Ho Chi Minh City to London, wearing compression socks on long flights became a must for me. Compression socks, like Comrad’s Knee-High Compression Socks, are designed to improve circulation and reduce swelling and discomfort during long periods of travel. With a compression level of 15-20 mmHg, Comrad socks have been incredibly effective in keeping my legs feeling fresh and comfortable, even after the longest journeys.
More Comfortable and Effective Compression Sock Options:
Comfortable and supportive Bombas Everyday Compression socks in grey, a great option for everyday wear and travel
Affordable and colorful Charmking compression socks in various colors, a budget-friendly and effective option for travel
