This is why you shouldn’t wear a t-shirt on a plane, according to a flight attendant

When preparing for a flight, we usually focus on the essentials: our passport, carry-on luggage, headphones, or downloaded movies. However, there’s one detail that often goes unnoticed and can directly influence your comfort and safety during the trip: the clothes you’re wearing.

Although wearing jeans and a basic t-shirt might seem the most comfortable and practical option, a flight attendant with years of experience warns that it is not the best choice.

Andrea Fischbach, a flight attendant for American Airlines, recommends ditching short-sleeved shirts and opting for looser-fitting garments that offer better coverage. And this isn’t just a style tip; it’s a matter of safety.

Why avoid T-shirts on a plane?

It might seem insignificant, but what you wear on a plane can make all the difference in an emergency. If you have to evacuate using an inflatable slide, for example, bare skin is at risk of friction burns, scrapes, or bruises. These slides aren’t made of soft materials, and your clothing can become your first line of defense.

That’s why Fischbach recommends wearing long-sleeved shirts or lightweight sweaters, which offer better protection for the arms and other exposed body parts. Besides providing greater protection, these garments also keep you warm in environments that tend to cool down quickly, such as an airplane cabin.

What to avoid:

Besides short-sleeved shirts, there are other garments and accessories that are best left at home:

• Tight clothing : Changes in cabin pressure can cause slight swelling, making tight-fitting garments uncomfortable. They can also restrict circulation and increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), especially on long flights.
• Large belts and flashy jewelry : These types of accessories complicate the passage through security checks and can cause delays and uncomfortable situations.
• Shoes with laces or heels : They are difficult to take off and put on, which is impractical when using the controls and uncomfortable for sitting for long periods.

What should you wear to fly?

The key is to prioritize comfort, circulation, and ease of movement . Here are some recommendations:

• Loose-fitting pants : Joggers, leggings, or flexible jeans are an excellent choice.
• Layering : Wearing a long-sleeved t-shirt or a light sweater allows you to adapt to temperature changes inside the plane.
• Comfortable and easy-to-remove shoes : Slip-on sneakers or loafers are ideal for security checks and for keeping your feet rested.
• Compression stockings : Highly recommended for people who fly frequently or on long-haul flights, as they help with blood circulation.

Start your trip off on the right foot

Dressing well for your trip doesn’t mean wearing fashionable or elegant clothes, but rather dressing practically. Your clothing can influence your experience, from getting through security to how you feel during the flight or how you protect yourself in an emergency.

The next time you put together your travel outfit, think beyond aesthetics. Dressing in the right clothes can make a big difference… and your body will thank you for it.