7 Most Comfortable Clothes & Accessories for Travelers

Though the most experienced and passionate travelers often end up becoming very hardy people, sometimes travel can really take a toll on one’s body. This can be the case if you’re on a lengthy intercontinental flight, where you can expect to be sitting down or sleeping upright for hours, or if you’re sprinting from one airport terminal to another between layovers. 

Knowing that, you’ll want to wear and pack travel items that are ideal for such situations. You should be in the market for travel-friendly clothes that won’t restrict your movements and are made from comfortable materials. You’ll also want to think about the temperature inside the plane cabin and at your destination; you should be bringing warmer clothes or something you can layer if you get cold easily or breathable garments if you tend to sweat often.

Need some recommendations on travel must-haves that will keep you comfortable? Here are eight things that every traveler should bring with them on their next journey:

Leggings

When it comes to the comfiest bottoms to wear for a trip, you can’t go wrong with a pair of leggings. Their elastic waistbands and stretchable materials will make it easy for you to move in different positions and feel optimally comfortable whether you’re walking or staying buckled into your seat. 

You can buy leggings in varying thicknesses, so don’t worry about being limited to wearing something too thin. Travel leggings come in different colors and lengths, including those that end at the calf or ankle, so you’ll be spoiled for choice when shopping for leggings to match your favorite travel outfits.

Joggers

If you prefer bottoms that are just as comfortable but don’t hug the skin, consider packing a pair or two of jogging pants or joggers. As an athleisure staple, joggers are designed to be comfy and let the wearer move freely. Their elastic or drawstring waistbands will enable wear-and-go functionality that’s ideal when you’re hopping from place to place. 

Some pairs of joggers come with four-way stretch and moisture-wicking properties, which make them perfect to wear on flights and in other stages of transit in various weather conditions. For full convenience, get the type with side pockets where you can store your phone and other small travel essentials.

Oversized Shirt

Aside from wearing stretchable bottoms, it’s also a good idea to choose tops that won’t constrict your movements or make you feel choked while you’re lugging around a backpack. An oversized shirt makes a great all-around travel top if you want something comfy, but with an upscale or streetwear-savvy style.

Look for structured tops that are still roomy enough to allow your body to move, and whose fabric and moisture-wicking properties allow your skin to breathe without any issues. Pack several, with at least one in your carry-on bag in case you need an emergency change of clothes.

Fleece Hoodie

The temperatures inside a plane cabin or travel bus can fluctuate, so you’ll need to be ready to bundle up or shed a layer at a moment’s notice. Fortunately, that won’t be a problem if you pack a travel clothing staple like a fleece hoodie. The garment’s lightweight and comfy composition makes it great for traveling in temperate or cool environments, helping you stay warm on flights, bus rides, or even walks in chilly outdoor settings.

When shopping for a fleece hoodie, look for the zip-up variety. That way, you can either keep the hoodie open when you’re wearing it or zip it up all the way if you’re feeling extra cold. Zip hoodies are also easier to put on and take off compared to pullovers. The person sitting next to you on a flight will certainly appreciate not getting hit by your arm when you pull on or take off your hoodie.

Cardigan

For another chic and functional outerwear option when you’re traveling, bring a cardigan with you. A classic knitted sweater can keep you from freezing in case the cabin temperature drops or it gets cold in the hotel or restaurant you’re visiting.

Grab a long and oversized cardigan from your closet and keep it in your carry-on bag. You can easily wrap it around your body and use it as a makeshift blanket if you feel cold. Cardigans are also very easy to style and can elevate almost any casual travel outfit to new levels of chic. Wear a T-shirt and jeans combo with a long cardigan for maximum comfort and style game that matches a traveling celebrity’s.

Poncho

While many airlines provide passengers with amenities like blankets, you can’t expect all of them to be thick enough to keep you warm. Some airline blankets can also leave fluff on your outfit.

For a convenient and stylish alternative, bring an accessory that can help you stay warm—like a poncho. A poncho will be able to cover your entire torso, which can help you feel cozier during long and frigid plane rides. If you anticipate getting cold quite easily, opt for a cashmere-wool poncho that will be very light on your luggage limit.

Compression Socks

Lastly, if you’ll be on a long-haul flight, it’s a good idea to wear a pair of light compression socks. Since you have limited chances to stand up, walk around, or stretch your legs on a plane ride, your legs can swell due to poor blood circulation and cause you pain and fatigue. A pair of compression socks will apply gentle pressure to your lower legs, thus improving blood flow and reducing discomfort and swelling.

If you don’t suffer from a condition like deep vein thrombosis, over-the-counter compression socks with light compression properties should be enough for you. Choose a pair that’s made of stretchable fabric, preferably a mix of synthetic and natural materials like a blend of merino wool, bamboo, nylon, and spandex.

Prioritizing comfort when building your travel wardrobe is a must, especially if you’ll have a long journey ahead. Consider these eight travel essentials, none of which will get in your way when you’re lugging your suitcase or holing up in your seat. Pack with comfort in mind so that you’ll arrive at your destination well-rested, and ready for adventure.