Everyone is wearing yoga pants on planes now, but I avoid all artificial fibres because they are more likely to burn and stick to you if there is a fire. I'd advise wearing cotton clothes or anything made of natural fibres.

The choice between leggings and sweatpants usually comes down to a trade-off between compression and thermal regulation. Sweatpants (or joggers) are generally superior for long-haul flights because they offer a looser fit, which is more comfortable when your body naturally "bloats" due to cabin pressure changes. Their thicker fabric also protects against the often-freezing air conditioning found in plane cabins. However, high-quality compression leggings can be better for circulation, helping to prevent swelling (edema) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on flights over four hours. The downside to leggings is that thin "gym-style" versions offer almost no warmth, leaving many travelers shivering. In 2026, the "travel pro" move is often wearing a thicker, high-waisted "travel legging" or soft joggers made of breathable materials like merino wool or bamboo, which offer the comfort of sweatpants with a more polished look for navigating the terminal upon arrival.