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Should you wear tennis shoes or sandals on a plane?

Navigating Dress Codes for Airplane Travel In general, airlines expect passengers to wear shoes that are appropriate and comfortable for the duration of the flight. Avoiding shoes with excessive heels, open toes, or slippery soles is advisable, as they may pose safety concerns or discomfort during the journey.



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While flip-flops and high heels are easy to slip off and back on at airport security, they're not a good idea. And while sandals might sound good—especially if you're headed to the beach—airplanes are notoriously cold. Plus, who wants to walk through security barefoot?

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Instead wear: slip-on shoes While sneakers—especially these cult dad shoes—may be the ultimate shoe to wear when traveling, the classic styles can be a hindrance if you're looking for a quick journey through airport security. To avoid any slow downs and troublesome laces, consider switching to a pair of slip-on shoes.

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Here are the items flight attendants suggest you leave home or save to wear post-flight:
  • Jewelry or bulky accessories. ...
  • Anything tight. ...
  • An uncomfortable bra. ...
  • Skimpy clothing. ...
  • Fragrance. ...
  • High heels, flip-flops and slides. ...
  • Fabrics that are flammable. ...
  • Bulky jackets.


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When choosing what to wear on a plane, look for stylish tops made with natural fabrics, such as cotton, silk, wool or linen, which will allow air and moisture to pass through. Moisture-wicking man-made fabrics are an equally savvy option.

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Anything tight Tight waistbands, skirts, blouses and shirts are all no-no's while traveling, for the simple reason that our bodies naturally swell when we fly. Restrictive clothing does not pair well with bloating, also common on airplanes.

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Flight attendants agree that the best shoes to wear on a plane are flats, although Caris points out that if you do prefer to wear heels, block heels are the most stable. Closed-toe shoes are best to protect your feet, as Caris learned the hard way. “I've broken my own rule and worn sandals before,” she admits.

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That's right, nary a soul on any Traveler team dared stand up for their right to go barefoot aboard an airplane. Socks are non-negotiable. Most airlines agree, by the way, even going so far as to mandate their presence in the air.

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During an emergency, all sorts of debris and unpleasant ground surfaces will block your way towards the exit, as well as outside the aircraft. If your feet aren't properly covered, you'll have a hard time making your way to safety.

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Navigating Dress Codes for Airplane Travel Avoiding shoes with excessive heels, open toes, or slippery soles is advisable, as they may pose safety concerns or discomfort during the journey. It's also recommended to steer clear of shoes with offensive or distracting designs.

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Anything tight You want to be able to move comfortably, encouraging healthy blood circulation and avoiding deep vein thrombosis.

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Lace-up boots, strappy heels, sandals with more buckles than you can count - they're the nightmare of every in-a-rush business traveler who must stand behind you as you undo myriad straps and laces. Wear simple slip-on shoes or sneakers when flying, as you'll have to take them off in the airport security line.

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Bulky Clothing Oversized clothing might be comfy—especially if you've got a long flight ahead—but it could lead to chaos at airport security. Flowy dresses, skirts, or bulky sweaters and sweatshirts may cause you to get selected for a pat-down to ensure you're not hiding anything, says Nelson.

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Wear loose clothing. Loose sweaters are extremely comfortable, especially if you pair them with jeans or leggings. Loose fitting dresses or pants are also a good choice for flying.

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The universal outfit to wear on a plane! Dress up some basics like a white t-shirt and jeans with a leather jacket, luxe woven tote bag and chic sneakers. Add some feminine polish with an adorable rose gold carry on suitcase! This is a great airport look for work travel because it's polished yet comfortable and cozy.

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