7 things you should never wear on a plane

Most airlines may not have a formal dress code, but there are some widely accepted guidelines about what to wear on the plane. Or more specifically, what not to wear.

The reasons for these rules and recommendations vary, from hygiene to comfort and convenience. If you take care to read the airline’s conditions of carriage (aka the fine print), you may find some guidelines you need to follow or risk starting your trip. So before you take off on your next plane ride, check out this list of things not to wear on a plane, as explained by the experts at Travel & Leisure!

open shoes

Are you leaving home at the end of winter for a summer destination and all you can think about is wearing comfy sandals on the plane, or even flip flops? Better think again. The rug under your seat has most likely been washed for some time, or even if it is clean, it may not have been deep washed. As travel expert and former flight attendant Bobbi Lowry advises, you should always wear your shoes in the airplane restroom. “Don’t think that the liquid on Earth is just water – it probably isn’t.”

aggressive clothing

This is where the airline’s fine print comes into play. Most airlines reserve the right to refuse boarding passengers who wear offensive clothing. The rules are usually not that clear, but generally refer to exaggeration, provocation, and so on. If an airline considers your clothing offensive, it may require you to change. And if you refuse, you will most likely be off the flight, as the airline has every right to deny you boarding.

night dress

We all want to feel comfortable during the flight, but since we are not at home but inside the plane where there are other people, it is best not to wear pajamas at the airport and on the plane. “Instead, wear pants that are loose, comfortable, and stretchy,” advises Suzanne Vogel, a former flight attendant with 22 years of experience. “For example, work clothes are just as comfortable as pajamas, and they’re just as comfortable as pants.” The only exception: If you’re flying business class and the flight attendants offer you pajamas for your flight, it’s okay to wear them on the plane — just change them before you land.

swimwear

Hawaiian Airlines, the airline of Hawaii, is one of the few that publishes a dress code that specifically bans swimwear. Given that airplanes don’t have swimming pools, you obviously don’t need to wear your own swimsuit. You can always tuck it into your clothes if you think you need it.

Many layers of clothes

Since you never know what the temperature will be like on a plane, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for all scenarios. Which is why wearing a single layer of clothing — whether it’s a tank top or a long cardigan — isn’t a good idea. “Put enough clothes on to warm up if it’s cold and remove some if the temperature is high,” say the experts.

GLOBE METAL JEWELRY

The accessories may be perfect for a night out on the town, but pack your oversized metallic jewelry in your handbag when you travel. Ideally, don’t take precious jewelry with you on your travels. Chances are, if you put it on, you’ll have to take it off when you go through airport security, which is more annoying than fun, plus you might forget it in a basket.

Scents and perfumes

Be kind to fellow travelers who are sensitive to certain fragrances and avoid wearing anything too strong. Odors spread a lot when you’re in an enclosed space like an airplane cabin, and your favorite scent may be overwhelming to others, but to others it’s a pain.