Wear comfortable clothing While you might be able to handle tighter, more restrictive clothing for a short period of time, consider looser loungewear during a long-haul flight.

For a long-haul economy flight, the goal is "breathable layering" to manage the cabin’s fluctuating temperatures and restricted movement. Most frequent flyers recommend high-quality joggers or leggings made of natural fibers (like cotton or merino wool) rather than stiff denim, which can restrict circulation during 10+ hours of sitting. On top, wear a soft T-shirt layered with a zip-up hoodie or a lightweight pashmina that can double as a blanket or pillow. Crucially, wear compression socks to prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and swelling in the feet. For footwear, choose slip-on shoes or sneakers that are easy to remove at security and comfortable if your feet expand at altitude. Avoid anything with tight waistbands, complicated buttons, or itchy fabrics. In 2026, many travelers also pack a "fresh set" of socks and a clean T-shirt in their carry-on to change into halfway through the flight or upon arrival to feel refreshed.