As the summer travel season gathers pace, many Britons are preparing for their holidays, and with that comes the perennial question of what to wear for the journey. Balancing comfort, style, and practicality across various environments – from bustling airport security to fluctuating plane temperatures and often sunny tarmac walks – can be a challenge. Our team of UKPulse editors, seasoned travellers themselves, have shared their tried-and-tested outfit formulas designed to make summer air travel a more enjoyable and stylish experience.
For those looking to maximise luggage space, a key tip from commerce editor Sarah Bannerman is to choose versatile pieces. She recommends breezy, cropped trousers with an elasticated waist and wide-leg silhouette, which offer comfort for the flight and can be dressed up for an evening outfit at your destination. Pairing these with a graphic or plain crew-neck T-shirt allows for a comfortable sports bra underneath, while packing cosy socks for in-flight air conditioning is a must. She also advises wearing your sun hat and using a hat clip to secure it through the airport, preventing it from taking up precious carry-on space.
Lauren Burvill, a senior commerce writer with extensive travel experience, advocates for dedicated travel outfits. Her summer go-to is a light, breezy cotton gauze matching set, worn with a baby-tee underneath. This allows for easy layering – the button-up top can be removed and tied around the waist if temperatures rise. For footwear, slip-on, enclosed, yet lightweight shoes are her preference, citing mesh styles with trainer-like soles as ideal. Practical accessories like a cap to manage 'flight hair' or tinted glasses to conceal tired eyes are also essential components of her travel ensemble.
Chloe Laws, acting senior manager of audience development, emphasises the importance of clothing that adapts to both departure and arrival temperatures. Learning from a past experience of being caught in unsuitable attire after luggage delays, she now opts for comfortable shorts, such as Adidas Firebirds, paired with a stylish linen shirt for a more elevated look. For footwear, comfortable sandals are her staple, with Tevas being a firm favourite. Sunglasses are also a crucial accessory, worn from the early morning start right through to checking into the hotel.
These expert tips highlight a common thread: intelligent layering, versatile pieces, and comfort-focused accessories are paramount for stress-free summer air travel. By adopting these strategies, British holidaymakers can navigate airports and flights with greater ease, ensuring they arrive at their destination feeling refreshed and ready to enjoy their break without compromising on style.