Got a big trip planned? From short city breaks to long-haul flights, your airport outfit is probably the last thing you think about when heading away.
With all your wardrobe favourites stacked in the suitcase, knowing what to wear at the airport can be the first hurdle of your holiday.
So, to make your life a little bit easier, we’ve put together the essential checklist of outfit options that blend style, comfort and practicality – and feature the biggest brands out there.
What makes a great travel outfit?
In simple terms, it’s comfort.
Forget styles that restrict you – they can go in the suitcase – and grab something a little more casual, stretchy or roomy (or all three).
So out go the jeans and jorts. In come joggers, shorts and leggings.
But it’s not just about comfort, there’s layers to your outfit choice. Got pockets? No problem. If not, a crossbody secures the essentials.
There are other factors to contend with: lower cabin pressures mean flights are kept cooler; the length of the flight; the weather and time of day at your holiday spot after you touch down.
Comfort comes first
You want to look and feel your best, so the two golden rules to a comfy airport outfit are:
1 – The fabric
What’s the fit made from? A soft cotton fleece or a lightweight and breathable polyester always deliver. Athleisure staples are often built with extra stretch to move with you.
2 – The fit
How comfy does it sit? You don’t want to be feeling cramped and uncomfortable at the start of a long-haul journey. If it’s too tight, it’s no good – give yourself some room. Or if it’s a slim-fit design, make sure the fabric has some stretch to it, like athleisure zip tops and leggings.
Layering for journey days
Having a lightweight jacket, pullover hoodie, sweatshirt or overshirt to hand is a must to keep you warm in cooler flight cabins. These versatile layers are easy to slip on and off pre, during and post flight.
Choosing the right trainers
If you kick your trainers off on the flight, we don’t blame you. Airport to airport, the waiting times can change, so it could be a long time before you sit back and relax on the plane. Think brands like Crocs and Birkenstock as easy options to slip on and off.
Comfort starts from the ground up, that’s why we’re looking at the likes of ASICS, Nike, adidas, New Balance and On Running as staples to get you from the check-in desk to your gate in stacks of cushioning.
Accessorise away
The extras are always essential for the airport. Bags, caps and water bottles (just remember to empty it before security).
Whether it’s a small rucksack to tuck under the seat in front of you, or a manbag that gives you straightforward access to your phone, passport and wallet whilst keeping them secure, we’ve got you covered.
For your hydration, Stanley’s the one. From heavy-duty, leakproof tumblers to travel-ready, on-the-go mugs, the brand has a huge range of bottles for both hot and cold drinks.
Travel outfits for women
Need some inspo ahead of your next hol? You’re in the right place. We’ve picked out our fave pieces that are guaranteed to make the next holiday dump.
Comfort travel outfits
First stop: comfort.
We’re thinking leggings, joggers, co-ord sets and oversized hoodies as staples every time you travel – short or long-haul journeys.
Plush knits from AYBL, soft fleece from Nike and track-inspired styles from adidas Originals and New Balance are always a vibe.
Chic style
To go with comfort, we’re looking at neutral colours, matching sets and premium fabrics to bring the outfit together.
From athleisure combos to palette pairings that run head-to-toe, these styles work with every kind of accessory, trainer or sandal.
Cute looks
Always ahead of the next trend? Bring the looks you see on your timeline to your travels.
Animal prints, fresh silhouettes and seasonal shades both turn heads and feel effortless.
Whether it’s the latest Salomons on foot or new 3-Stripes up top, these pieces stand out in any airport.
Travel outfits for men
If it’s sportswear, streetwear or everyday essentials you’re after, we’ve got you. The men’s collection is stacked with different styles to switch it up when you’re next heading away.
Casual looks
Grabbing a bite before the flight or waiting for a long delay, get the comfort right with go-to hoodies, joggers and sweatshirts for laidback layering.
Match them up with trainers that put your cushioning as top priority. But these sneakers don’t have to slack on style. Signature tech, thick yet light midsoles and breathable uppers always deliver.
Smart outfits
Want some looks that add a premium touch? Elevate the basics with names like Nike, adidas, Unlike Humans and more.
Subtle branding, clean cuts and next-level fabrics give classic layers a luxe edge. Pair them up one of New Era’s iconic MLB baseball caps. It never misses.
Long-haul ideas
Heading across the globe? When you’re in for the long-haul, you need to lock that look in early. Don’t leave it until the last minute.
Forget about the airport experience, it’s all about kicking back in your seat, ready for a big journey.
We’re shouting open hem joggers as a must. Birkenstocks or Crocs on foot too – ideal for slipping on and off when you need to. A zip up hoodie is a winner with its versatile layering in changing temps.
Outfit ideas for every traveller
Airport outfits aren’t a one size fits all. There are loads of different styles to choose from that suit your look. It all comes down to personal taste and how long you’ll be travelling for.
Couples matching airport outfits
If you and your partner have the same favourite brands, colours or prints, then we’ve got just the collection for you.
Whether it’s the same footwear or you’re teaming up on matching accessories, the biggest names are bringing his and hers essentials to the airport.
Kids airport outfits
We’ve not forgotten about the little ones too.
When the buzz of the holiday kicks in – and when they eventually crash out on the flight – make sure their outfit doesn’t get in the way.
Sporty, lightweight outfits that let them move with freedom are the way to go. For their feet, all the big names have dropped downsized editions. Whether it’s Vans’ Old Skool, Nike’s Dunk Low or Crocs’ Classic Clogs, we’re keeping up with every step.
Flights booked? Get holiday ready with the full airport edit in men’s, women’s and kids’ sizes right here.
