this is my non-negotiable long-haul travel uniform in 2026
As a professional travel writer, I cover a lot of ground. This year, I’m hopping on several flights per month ranging from long-hauls to Vietnam, Cape Town, and Hawaii, to slightly shorter jaunts to Paris, Rome, and Greenland – a whopping 77,000+ miles so far and counting. One thing that’s hugely important on any trip? Staying comfortable in transit.
With all that time in the air, I’ve perfected my travel uniform, aka the comfortable airport outfit I always wear for long travel days, no matter where I’m headed. My trusty formula almost never veers from the relaxed clothing staples below, from supportive shoes to the perfect tee and a sleek bomber jacket. Read on for my tried-and-true picks that always keep me looking and feeling my best on every journey.
The cosy staples I swear by
Cabin temperatures are notoriously cold, but then you’ll step off the plane and into the Med and overheat immediately. As such, layering on a flight is key, and a lightweight jacket is the cornerstone of the look. Rather than reaching for an oversized hoodie that can quickly look scruffy in a lounge, a cropped or smart bomber style adds a little polish to an otherwise casual outfit. They can also be folded and used as an impromptu pillow in a pinch. Look for crease-resistant fabrics and deep pockets that can house a passport, lip balm, and boarding pass for frictionless airport security screening.