The Absolute Worst Things You Can Wear To An Airport
Are you gearing up for an exciting adventure? Or perhaps you're preparing for an overdue getaway? Whether you're a frequent flyer or a once-in-a-while traveler, one thing's for sure: your airport attire has a huge effect on comfort, timeliness, and perception. The clothes you choose to wear while navigating the hustle and bustle of an airport can make or break your travel experience — or someone else's!
While comfort and style are both essential, it can be challenging to strike the perfect balance, especially with all those finicky TSA rules. But fear not, fabulous travelers, because we're here to help you navigate the do's and don'ts of airport fashion. We're taking you on a stylish journey through the absolute worst things you can wear to an airport. So, fasten your seatbelt, adjust your tray table, and prepare for a fun-filled adventure into the world of airport attire.
Stilettos pose sky-high dilemmas
Picture this: you're passing through security, and the dreaded moment arrives — the TSA agent asks you to remove your shoes. You have no choice but to take off your stilettos. Not only are they hard to take on and off, which might earn you a couple of glares from passengers behind you, but once you're shoeless, you'll have to navigate the airport floor barefoot (yuck!).
Even if you think you can brace yourself for a few minutes while you walk through the metal scanners, stilettos are an uncomfortable choice. Have you ever had to run through terminals because of long queues or a late connection? Trust us: you don't want to be sprinting to your gate in high heels.
In worst-case scenarios, stilettos can be downright dangerous. There's a reason every single safety announcement asks for high-heeled shoes to be taken off during emergency landings. Those pointy bottoms can cause aches and pains that slow you down during times when speed is imperative. Not to mention, they can puncture the very raft you need to get to safety. It's always better to opt for comfortable, flatter footwear.
Shorts dresses or skirts
We all want to look chic and stylish, but have you considered the cleanliness of those airport and airplane seats? Imagine the number of bottoms that every seat sees over the course of a single day, let alone before you get a chance to rest your tush. It's unlikely staff have enough time to disinfect those all surfaces squeaky clean with the amount of foot traffic an airport sees. In fact, Inside Edition put this to the test and found that high-touch surfaces do not get nearly as much attention from custodial staff as they should. The lesson here? Protect your bottom from contact with unwanted germs by covering it up. Opt for pants, long skirts, and dresses that provide coverage below the knee. If you're traveling between two warm destinations, opt for thinner clothes and airier materials like polyester blends.
Jeans are unpleasant on long hauls
Everyone loves a good pair of jeans. Whether your go-to is your skinnies, your loose, wide-legged denim jeans, or your actual boyfriend's jeans, they seem to go with every outfit. You can dress 'em up or down, making them easy pieces to style. The only things jeans don't pair well with? Sitting. Especially sitting for a long time.
There's a lot of waiting at airports. Even if you time everything perfectly, you're likely going to be waiting at the gate. And of course, you'll have to be seated for your flight. Ever sat in jeans for a considerable amount of time? I'm sure we all know the pain of the waistband digging into our tummies or the fabric clinging to our thighs after an hour or two. Why suffer? Pack the jeans in your luggage and wear something cozier like leggings or joggers to keep your spirits high while traveling. Plus, you'll have plenty of room to stretch out during those in-flight movie marathons!
Bodysuits or exercise dresses
Bodysuits and exercise dresses are convenient once you have them on. They keep you snug, offer tons of support, and are great for styling without compromising comfort. No wonder they've become popular everyday pieces. But, imagine trying to wriggle out of one of these in a cramped airport bathroom or airplane stall. It's a task not even Houdini would attempt. And once they're off, every bit of you is naked and bare, leaving you exposed. (Those gaps in the bathroom door suddenly feel a lot wider than they actually are, huh?). The same goes for rompers and jumpsuits. These one-pieces may be cute and convenient for a day out, but they can be a real hassle in tight situations! Stick to clothing that's easy to put on and take off when nature calls. There's nothing wrong with a T-shirt and leggings.
Open-toed shoes leave your piggies vulnerable
Don't sacrifice your feet for fashion. Sandals may look cute and flip-flops may seem like a convenient TSA hack but they won't keep you warm or protect your feet from those airport floors. (Surely, you don't need a reminder of how dirty those floors are?). Open-toed shoes like slides and wedges also offer little to no support. Standing in line to check in, then to drop your bags off, followed by security, and to board and de-board takes up a bulk of your airport routine. Prevent aches and pains by choosing a comfy pair of sneakers or loafers for easy maneuverability through the terminal.
Plus, despite not wanting to think about them, crises do occur. In the event of an emergency, flying debris can puncture skin and make it harder for you to evacuate without being wounded. Keep your piggies safe — you need them to get around!
A single layer
Airport temperatures, just like your travel plans, can be pretty darn unpredictable. So, it's a smart move to be ready for some wild swings on the thermostat. Toss on a light jacket or a snazzy cardigan, and you'll be thanking your lucky stars when you're everyone else is shivering at the departure gate or sweating it out in the plane cabin.
And here's a cool bonus: layering up can save you some serious suitcase space since just one layer can make a repeat outfit look new. Now, don't go crazy and turn yourself into a TSA suspect with layers on layers on layers, but that little vest or extra layer can also score you a few extra inches in your luggage. That means more room for clothes, gifts, or souvenirs — your call!
So, next time you're gearing up for a trip, remember: layering isn't just for fashion, it's a pro move to keep you comfy and suitcase-savvy.
Items you'll only wear at the airport
Travel outfits can be super cute, but let's talk practicality for a second. They might not be the savviest use of your precious luggage space. So, next time you're pondering your airport attire, consider going for those trusty basics that can do double duty — comfortable at the airport and perfect for vacation.
Why, you ask? Well, it's all about maximizing your suitcase real estate for all those souvenirs you'll inevitably collect along the way. You don't want to be stuck with a suitcase bursting at the seams, right? We all hate luggage overage fees. By opting for an airport outfit that incorporates vacation-ready versatile pieces, you can mix and match effortlessly and still look absolutely fabulous. So, go ahead, plan your travel outfits wisely, and you'll be the stylish jet-setter with room to spare for your newfound treasures.
Polarized sunglasses may cause a screen perception snafu
TikTok never fails to surprise us with new concerns, doesn't it? From discovering unexpected surprises in our breakfast cereal to finding dirt on our strawberries, now we have a peculiar issue with polarized sunglasses at the airport!
For those who don't know, polarized sunglasses work their magic by reducing glare from certain types of light. However, as one unfortunate traveler recently experienced, they can also play tricks on our perception of screens. This traveler took to TikTok to share their ordeal, posting a video that vividly illustrated how their polarized sunglasses effectively blocked out crucial information displayed on the airport's gate screens, causing them to wait at the wrong airport gate.
Don't risk missing important updates at your gate due to this optical illusion. Save those chic shades for your destination and ensure you keep a classic pair of non-polarized sunglasses handy for your airport adventures. It's all about staying in the know without sacrificing style!
Claw clips make sitting uncomfortable
Ah, the familiar discomfort of airport and airplane seats — they're practically synonymous with travel woes. But here's a thought: why compound the misery by enduring the incessant pushing of your head forward for the entire duration of your wait or your flight? Bid farewell to the tormentors of your scalp: claw clips.
Picture this: you're nestled into your seat, gearing up for hours of cramped quarters and questionable legroom. The claw clip, usually hailed as a hair-styling hero, now transforms into a head-torturing villain. It inflicts awkward head tilts to accommodate headrests and demands acrobatics to prevent hair from sticking to that questionable seat material. Save yourself the pain and leave your hair down or style it up in the forever-trendy messy bun.
Leather leggings are a recipe for discomfort
When you're about to be thousands of miles above ground level, comfort becomes paramount. While leather leggings may exude style, they often come at the cost of extreme discomfort. They tend to retain heat, which makes them unbearably suffocating, leaving you with that awfully stifling clammy sensation. This can make long waits and flights feel like a never-ending sauna session.
Instead, consider breathable fabrics that promise to keep you cool and comfortable as you embark on your adventure. Breathable materials — such as lightweight cotton or moisture-wicking blends — ensure that you stay fresh, dry, and at ease throughout your journey, making your travel experience much more enjoyable.
So, next time you're planning your travel attire, remember that comfort reigns supreme when cruising at high altitudes. Ditch the leather leggings and choose breathable fabrics that will let you truly savor the skies.
Overly baggy clothing puts you at risk for unwanted pat-downs
Sporting overly baggy attire might inadvertently invite unwarranted attention and additional security checks at the airport. To breeze through security without a hitch, select clothing that fits well — You don't want to look like you're hiding anything under you apparel. Tighten up your fashion game without sacrificing ease of movement. Snug-fitting yet comfortable attire not only reduces the chances of a prolonged pat-down but also ensures you feel at ease during your extended day of travel.
Remember that dressing comfortably can be your passport to a hassle-free security experience. Streamline your look, and you'll sail through security with confidence, leaving behind any worries about unnecessary checks.
Leave the knee- and thigh-highs at home
Thigh-high boots undeniably make a fashion statement, but they can be far from ideal for airport travel. These stylish boots come with their fair share of drawbacks that can make your journey less enjoyable.
Firstly, they can be a hassle to remove when you go through airport security checks. Having to wrestle with thigh-high boots while trying to comply with security procedures can be both time-consuming and frustrating.
Additionally, thigh-high boots are not designed for extended periods of wear. Walking long distances in the airport or spending hours waiting for your flight can be uncomfortable when your legs are confined in these boots. So, while thigh-high boots may look great, they may not be the most practical choice for airport travel
Be mindful of others and avoid fragrances
While smelling heavenly is undeniably a plus, it's essential to remember the golden rule of considerate travel: be mindful of your fellow passengers. Many individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to fragrances, and in the confined spaces of airplanes, it's wise to exercise restraint when it comes to applying perfumes or scented products.
When you're sharing air-tight spaces with others, the scent of your choice can easily permeate and affect those around you. To ensure a comfortable and allergy-free environment for everyone, consider forgoing strong fragrances or opting for a more subtle scent when you travel. Or, save your travel-sized perfume for when you're finally at your destination.
Uncomfortable undergarments
Uncomfortable underwear can be a real buzzkill, and who wants to endure hours of suffocation and discomfort in the name of fashion? When you're soaring at 30,000 feet, prioritize comfort without sacrificing style. Opt for undergarments that make you feel fabulous.
Comfortable lingerie isn't just a luxury; it's a necessity when you're on the go. You deserve to be at ease during your journey, whether you're flying high or waiting at the gate. So, don't settle for anything less than lingerie that lets you breathe and move freely. Say goodbye to the days of enduring ill-fitting bras with painful straps and constricting materials. Embrace lingerie that complements your style and allows you to enjoy every moment of your travel adventure without any unnecessary discomfort.
Respect your destination by avoiding revealing clothing
International travel brings together people from all corners of the globe, each with their unique beliefs and customs. It's essential to remember that depending on the country you're in, revealing clothing can be culturally insensitive. Just because an outfit is suitable for the beach or a night out in a specific country doesn't automatically make it appropriate for the airport. To ensure a respectful and harmonious atmosphere for fellow travelers from diverse cultural backgrounds, it's a good practice to choose more modest attire when passing through international airports.
By opting for modest clothing, you demonstrate your consideration for these cultural differences and help maintain a respectful environment. It's a small yet meaningful gesture that can go a long way in promoting understanding and tolerance among travelers. So, the next time you pack your airport attire, keep cultural sensitivity in mind. Your thoughtful choice of clothing can contribute to a more harmonious and respectful travel experience for everyone involved.