Don’t need an umbrella since you’re headed to Palm Springs? Not bringing contact solution because your vision is 20/20? Customize the list by crossing off items you don’t need and adding any additional items in the “more items” boxes.

Don’t miss our downloadable, editable carry-on packing checklist below.

Shop Our Carry-on Essentials List

While packing light is great, there are still a few essentials you need to make sure make it into your bag—think underwear, socks, pajamas, shirts, and pants. From there, you can get more specific based on your destination. Heading to the beach? Throw in a swimsuit. Vacationing somewhere colder? Gloves, hats, and scarves are a must. Keep in mind that clothing can take up a lot of space—if you’re planning on packing in only a carry-on, try wearing some of your bulkier items to free up precious room in your luggage.

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries are another necessity of travel to keep you feeling fresh. You can find the standards—toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant—all available in TSA-approved travel-sized containers. Liquids should be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces and fit into a clear, quart-size, zip-top plastic bag. To learn more about TSA rules, see Airport Security Frequently Asked Questions.

Once you have the basics packed, think about your individual routine. Don’t forget things like contact solution, period products, and daily medications. Curating your carry-on toiletry bag down to only essentials will help save space. Your one-in-a-million, go-to cleanser you can’t live without? Definitely throw it in your bag. Your extensive collection of handmade shower melts? Maybe save them for home.

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Whether or not you’re checking additional luggage, there are a few items you should always keep with you. Important travel documents like your passport, ID, boarding pass, insurance cards, credit cards, and copy of your COVID-19 vaccination card should always stay with you in your personal item. Pricey items like cameras, SD cards, and laptops as well as items you may want to have on-hand at your destination like umbrellas, a guidebook, and your itinerary should be stowed safely in your carry-on. 

Finally, don’t forget to pack items to pass time on the plane. Items like headphones, books, and magazines will keep you entertained for however many hours you’re in the air. Make sure to load up your device with podcasts, music, and audiobooks pre-flight while you’re still connected to reliable wi-fi. Other essentials like ear plugs, sleep masks, and travel pillows make sure you’re able to arrive at your destination well-rested.

Download Our Editable Carry-On Packing List

Never be without your noise-cancelling headphones or a spare set of clothes again with our downloadable checklist.

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2010. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Carol McPherson contributed to this story.

The post The Essential Carry-On Bag Packing List appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Are you in agreement or are you misaligned with most of the traveling public? Travel site Kayak conducted a poll of the most hotly debated travel opinions to determine the Unspoken Rules of Air Travel.

Here’s what the survey found:

Cutting the Line Is Ok

About to miss your flight? According to Kayak’s survey, 57 percent of travelers will have sympathy for you (and will let you cut the line) if it’s the difference between making it to the gate in time or being left stranded.

Unattended Children Should Be Banned

Letting your kids run around the airport (or plane) freely in the hopes they’ll burn off some energy? 90 percent of respondents ask that you rein them in, voting that children shouldn’t be left unattended during travel.

Don’t Stand on the Moving Sidewalk

If your personal pet peeve is people who ride the moving sidewalks at the airport (rather than walking on it), you’re not alone—57 percent of travelers feel the same way. 

Just remember, moving sidewalks are a huge help to people with mobility issues—so try to extend some grace and patience when travelers aren’t walking on them. 

Clapping When the Plane Lands Is Annoying

Your fellow passengers ask you to hold your applause when the plane touches down. A close margin of 51 percent of flyers thinks this measure of appreciation is “pointless” because the pilots can’t hear you.

The Middle Seat Doesn’t Get Both Armrests

A surprising 57 percent of passengers have no sympathy for the person stuck in the middle seat, saying the armrests are up for anyone to grab. 

Reclining Your Seat is Acceptable

Go ahead and lean back (just please, do it the right way) next time you fly. A vast majority (88 percent) believe that the recline button is offered for a reason.

Leave Your Socks On

Fellow flyers don’t want to see (or smell) your bare feet. Seventy-six percent of passengers voted that people should keep their socks on during a flight.

The post The 7 Most Controversial Travel Opinions appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Over-the-counter sleeping pills have only a few distinctive active ingredients—some of which you might prefer over others depending on your health needs and preferences. Here’s what to know about the best over-the-counter sleep aids out there, so you can ask your doctor about the kind you think you’d prefer.

Editor’s Note: This story includes both natural sleep aids and over-the-counter sleeping pills. All should be cleared for personal use by a doctor who’s familiar with your unique health conditions and medical history.

Types of Sleeping Pills

Diphenhydramine Sleeping Pills

If you’ve ever taken common sleep or allergy medicines like ZzzQuil, Benadryl, Aleve PM, or Tylenol PM, you’ve taken diphenhydramine. The active ingredient is an antihistamine that quells allergic reactions, with the added side effect of sleepiness that makes it common in sleeping pills.

Diphenhydramine is generally safe but shouldn’t be overused by those who need it for anti-allergy purposes. Overuse can lead to a higher tolerance to the active ingredient, which would mean needing to take more and more for it to continue working. A good rule of thumb is to only use diphenhydramine-based medicines when you really need them: when having an allergic reaction, or on a plane when it’s all you have and you really need some sleep. It’s probably best to use something a little more natural (more on that next).

Melatonin

Melatonin is the hormone your brain naturally releases when it’s tired, to trigger sleepiness, and is about as natural a sleep aid as you can get. It also happens to be available in pill form, so you can introduce the sleep-triggering chemical when it’s not naturally occurring, like on a cramped plane or for fighting jetlag. Like most sleeping pills, it can have some negative side effects if used long-term, but it’s generally the lightest sleep aid you can take, and will usually do the trick for sleeping pill newbies.

Doxylamine

If you’ve tried the natural stuff and found that you need something stronger to get to sleep on the plane, another antihistamine called doxylamine is a common active ingredient in stronger sleeping pills like Unisom sleep tablets and NyQuil cold medicine. The same antihistamine qualms apply, but if you’re not allergy-prone and not using antihistamines often, then sleep tabs like Unisom will offer a stronger effect. NyQuil has the added benefit of a pain reliever, fever reducer, and cough suppressant if you’re feeling sick and need some rest.

Valerian Root

Valerian root is a potent herbal supplement that causes surprisingly strong sedation and calms anxiety. Even the coated, pill version of this supplement usually has a strong smell that’s reminiscent of funky cheese—but it’s worth it. Called “nature’s Xanax” or “nature’s Valium” by some doctors, valerian root can instill sleepiness and relaxation within about 30 minutes, and it doesn’t have the same after-effect of drowsiness that I’ve experienced hours after taking other sleeping pills.

CBD

According to a study in 2019, CBD helped ease anxiety in patients but has yet to be fully proven to aid in sleep. However, if anxiety is part of the reason why you find it difficult to relax on an airplane, it may help you sleep. Also, many CBD sleep aids are mixed with melatonin to help you relax and sleep. 

CBD Hemp-derived CBD oils (with THC levels below 0.3 percent) are legal to fly with or be taken across state borders in the U.S., and with CBD becoming more and more popular and sales becoming legal, CBD is a great option for sleeping while traveling. 

The Best OTC Sleeping Pills for Travel

ZzzQuil

If you’ve ever had the flu or a bad cold, chances are you used NiQuil to ensure you can sleep while feeling miserable. It’s no surprise that they banked on that uncanny ability to make you sleep and created ZzzQuil. While they don’t taste great, they work wonders. 

Type: Diphenhydramine 

Benadryl

I know when I have taken Benadryl for allergies, I always take it at night because it makes me drowsy. Kill two birds with one stone by using Benadryl for your allergies and for sleeping on the plane. 

Type: Diphenhydramine

Aleve PM

If you suffer from headaches, or any pains while traveling, you may want to try Aleve PM to help you sleep on the plane. It combines pain relief and a sleep aid to have you waking up refreshed and pain-free for 12 hours. 

Type: Diphenhydramine

Tylenol PM

If you are a Tylenol user, then Tylenol PM is the better option for pain relief plus a sleep aid. Combining 500 mg Acetaminophen & 25 mg Diphenhydramine HCl, you’ll battle any aches and pains that come with travel while sleeping like a baby. 

Type: Diphenhydramine

Unisom Sleep Tablets 

Unisom Sleep Tablets only contain Doxylamine succinate, so all it does is help you sleep. Take one of these, and you’ll be dozing in no time on your next red eye. 

Type: Doxylamine

WELMATE Sleep Aid

Similar to Unisom, WELMATE Sleep Aid’s main ingredient is Doxylamine. Take one 30 minutes before you want to sleep, and you’ll almost be guaranteed to be dreaming as soon as you are ready to! 

Type: Doxylamine

Kirkland Signature Sleep Aid

A favorite generic brand to many, Kirkland Signature Sleep Aid is a perfect budget choice to help you get that much-needed sleep on an overnight flight. Like other doxylamine medicines, take it about 30 minutes before you want to sleep for the best results. 

Type: Doxylamine

Nature’s Bounty Melatonin

Nature’s Bounty Melatonin is your run-of-the-mill melatonin in softgel form. This melatonin softgel will mean your body and mind will be able to relax during that long-haul flight you are dreading. 

Type: Melatonin

Klaire Labs Melatonin Lozenge 

If you can’t or don’t like swallowing pills, the Klaire Labs Melatonin Lozenge may be your best choice for a sleep aid. The quick-release formulation is in lozenge form, so you can either let it dissolve in your mouth or swallow it whole. Either way, you’ll be on your way to a restful flight. 

Type: Melatonin

Allergy Research Group Liposomal Melatonin

This fast-acting melatonin liquid has a “liposomal delivery for improved bioavailability and prolonged retention in your body.” Liposomal delivery means quicker absorption as well as longer-lasting effects.  

Type: Melatonin

Douglas Laboratories Controlled Release Melatonin

Taken an hour before you want to sleep, Douglas Laboratories Controlled Release Melatonin dissolves gradually over 3-4 hours, releasing slowly into your system. 

Type: Melatonin

Gaia Organics Valerian Root

Easily relax on your next flight with this organic valerian root supplement. Made from Valerian grown on Gaia’s certified organic farm, the vegan liquid phyto-caps deliver 1.8 mg of valerenic acid derivatives per serving, leaving you relaxed and ready to sleep. 

Type: Valerian Root

Herb Pharm Rhizome With Root Valerian

This liquid form of valerian root can be added to an ounce of water or juice an hour before you want to sleep, as well as right before you go to sleep. It is USDA organic and will calm and relax you for any flight. 

Type: Valerian Root

Herbal Secrets Valerian Root

These veggie capsules will help you fall asleep fast and stay asleep. You can feel good about this purchase, too, as every bottle of Herbal Secrets you purchase generates a donation to Vitamin Angels, an organization that delivers life-changing vitamins to children in need.

Type: Valerian Root

Charlotte’s Web 25MG CBD Oil Capsules

These 100% vegan, 100% CO2-extracted CBD oil capsules will keep you calm and relaxed no matter where you are headed. Mixed with olive oil in capsules, making them faster to disintegrate than soft gels, and without the added ingredients that many soft gels contain. 

Type: CBD

Highline Wellness CBD Gummies for Sleep with Melatonin

These hybrid gummies combine the best of two sleep aids: CBD and melatonin. THC-free, you reap the benefits without the high, but with a calm, restful sleep whether you are home or on the road! 

Type: CBD/Melatonin

Broad-Spectrum CBD Tincture for Sleep – Honey Lemon

This non-GMO, organic, THC-free tincture tastes great and will make sleeping on the plane a breeze. You have the option of a dropper or spray top, making the application of the tincture as easy as possible. Allergen alert: This tincture uses coconut oil, so anyone with a coconut allergy should choose a different option. 

Type: CBD/Melatonin

CBDFx CBD Gummies for Sleep with Melatonin 1500mg

These all-natural CBD gummies include passion flower, chamomile & lemon balm to promote calmness, along with CBD and melatonin to ensure a restful sleep for any weary traveler. 

Type: CBD/Melatonin

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The post The Best Over-the-Counter Sleeping Pills for Long-Haul Flights appeared first on SmarterTravel.

As with most issues involving air travel, what happens if you miss a connecting flight depends on your specific situation.

Missed Connecting Flight Due to Airline

If the missed connection is the airline’s fault (a delayed initial flight due to mechanical problems, for example), the airline should rebook you on the next available flight. If the next outbound flight is the following morning, the airline should either book you on another airline or provide accommodations and meals. But these arrangements are voluntary on the airline’s part; they’re not mandated by any law or regulation.

The DOT, however, recently announced its intention to propose rules requiring airlines to provide compensation to passengers impacted by delays or cancellations within the airline’s control. These rules are expected to be outlined later this year and aim to alleviate the financial burden on the stranded passengers who must find alternative accommodations, meals, and transportation.

Missed Connecting Flight Due to Weather

If inclement weather leads to a missed connecting flight, the airline will help you rebook but likely won’t offer any compensation for meals or accommodations. (That said, it never hurts to ask.) Travel insurance can be very useful in this type of situation, as it will often pay for expenses that an airline won’t cover.

Missing Your Flight Because of Something Within Your Control

If something within your control causes you to miss your connecting flight, you’re essentially on your own. This could include mishaps like missing your first flight because you were sitting in traffic, booking too tight of a connection, or getting too distracted at the airport bookstore to hear your boarding announcement. The airline will almost certainly help you rebook, but it’s under no obligation to do so, and you may have to pay a change fee plus any applicable fare difference.

Keep in mind that airlines generally won’t assume responsibility for missed connections on two separate tickets. For example, if you book one leg of your trip on JetBlue and the second ticket on United, United will not take responsibility if JetBlue’s flight doesn’t get you to the connecting airport on time.

While bad weather and mechanical problems are obviously beyond your control, you can take steps to give yourself a better chance of making your connection. Be sure you have plenty of time between flights, particularly if you’re flying into a large or notoriously busy airport or if you’ll need to go through customs and immigration. If it’s cheaper to book two separate flights on different airlines, it’s particularly important to leave extra time for the connection.

For help figuring out how long your connection should be, see what you need to know about making a connecting flight.

The way I see it, spending a little more time waiting at the gate beats being stranded at the airport or running desperately from one terminal to another trying to make your flight.

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2015. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post What Happens If I Miss My Connecting Flight Through No Fault of My Own? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Carry-On vs. Personal Item: What You Need to Know About Baggage Policies

For years, personal items have flown mostly under the radar, but in the new world of basic economy—in which airlines are offering cheaper base fares but charging for carry-ons—more and more people will be traveling with nothing but a personal item.

When you’re traveling on the cheap and trying to pack as much as possible into a very limited amount of space, knowing the rules is vital. Here’s a look at the personal item and carry-on size limits for 10 major U.S. airlines and 22 top international carriers.

A few important notes:

• The dimensions below reflect length, height, and width, and include wheels and handles.
• Personal item and carry-on dimensions listed below reflect the size limits for flyers in economy class. (Airlines often have more generous baggage allowances for flyers in first or business class.)
• If you’re traveling on a codeshare flight, you’ll need to check the baggage restrictions for the airline operating the flight—not necessarily the airline through which you booked.
• On shorter trips flown on smaller planes, even regulation-size carry-ons may need to be gate-checked. (In such cases, you shouldn’t be charged the normal checked bag fee.)
• Because carriers can change their rules at any time, it’s a good idea to double-check before each trip.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

On Alaska flights, your carry-on must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches. The following items may be substituted for your carry-on bag even if they’re over the limit: paintings, small musical instruments, art/advertising portfolios, human organs, fishing poles, and “delicate scientific equipment.”

Recommended carry-on: Samsonite Voltage DLX Carry-On Spinner

Alaska Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

Personal items are only defined as a “purse, briefcase, or laptop computer,” and the airline notes that either your carry-on or personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Jackets, hats, umbrellas, personal pillows, food, child safety seats, strollers, service animals, medications, assistive/medical devices, and a “reasonable amount of reading material” do not count toward your carry-on or personal item allowance.

Recommended personal item: Mancro Laptop Backpack

Allegiant

Allegiant Carry-on Size Limit

On Allegiant, your carry-on may be up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (and you’ll have to pay for it—anywhere from $15 to $45 at the time of booking, $50 at the counter, or up to $75 at the gate).

Recommended carry-on: Samsonite Theorym 22x14x9 Spinner

Allegiant Personal Item Size Limit

Your personal item on Allegiant is free and may measure up to 16 x 15 x 7 inches. Examples of personal items include purses, briefcases, and small backpacks. In addition, you may bring assistive devices, strollers, a coat, a small umbrella, a diaper bag, and food to eat during the flight.

Recommended personal item: AOTIAN Mini Nylon Backpack

American Airlines

American Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

American limits carry-on bags to 22 x 14 x 9 inches, although soft-sided garment bags up to a total of 51 inches (length + width + height) are also acceptable. Note that musical instruments and pets will count as a carry-on item.

Recommended carry-on: Elevation Plus 22x14x9 Spinner

American Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

Your American Airlines personal item should not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches and must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. Potentially larger items that don’t count as personal items include diaper bags, child safety seats, and medical and mobility devices; these may be brought aboard in addition to your carry-on and personal item.

Recommended personal item: Calpak Haven Laptop Tote Bag

Delta

Delta Carry-on Size Limit

The maximum carry-on size on Delta is 22 x 14 x 9 inches or a total of 45 inches combined. There’s no carry-on weight limit except at select Asian airports, where the maximum weight ranges from 15 to 22 pounds.

Recommended carry-on: Briggs & Riley International 21″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

Delta Personal Item Size Limit

Delta does not give size dimensions for personal items, but says they should be approximately the size of a purse, briefcase, laptop bag, or diaper bag. Things that can be brought aboard in addition to your personal item include jackets, umbrellas, food and drinks purchased in the terminal, strollers, child seats, and medical and mobility devices.

Recommended personal item: CAMTOP Weekend Overnight Bag

Frontier

Frontier Carry-on Size Limit

Frontier permits carry-on bags up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches and 35 pounds. You’ll need to pay for your carry-on bag unless you’re an Elite flyer.

Recommended carry-on: AmazonBasics 20″ Hardside Spinner Luggage

Frontier Personal Item Size Limit

Your personal item can be up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches and must fit under the seat in front of you. All flyers can bring a personal item for free. Coats, diaper bags, canes, assistive devices, and foot rugs “for use during prayer” can all be brought aboard as additional free items.

Recommended personal item: Samsonite Silhouette 17 Wheeled Underseater

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

On Hawaiian Airlines, your carry-on may be up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches and 25 pounds.

Recommended carry-on: Briggs & Riley International 21″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

Hawaiian Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

The airline doesn’t offer specific dimensions, but notes that your personal item should be a “laptop bag, briefcase, purse, or backpack that can fit under the seat in front of you.”

Recommended personal item: Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Quilted Chevron 15″ Laptop Tote

JetBlue

JetBlue Carry-on Size Limit

On JetBlue, your carry-on must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches. The airline does not have a weight limit for carry-on bags.

Recommended carry-on: Samsonite Voltage DLX Carry-On Spinner

JetBlue Personal Item Size Limit

Personal items should not exceed 17 x 13 x 8 inches and must fit under the seat. You can also bring duty-free items (in “a reasonable and limited amount”), a diaper bag, assistive devices, a coat, an umbrella, and/or an infant car seat without eating into your carry-on or personal item allowance.

Recommended personal item: Briggs & Riley Expandable Cabin Bag

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Carry-on Size Limit

Southwest has a more generous carry-on limit than most U.S. airlines, allowing bags up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches. If you’re bringing a pet, its carrier will count as either your carry-on or personal item.

Recommended carry-on: AmazonBasics 20″ Hardside Spinner Luggage

Southwest Personal Item Size Limit

On Southwest, your personal item must be 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches or less, and fit under the seat in front of you. Assistive/mobility devices, jackets, canes, umbrellas, and food to eat during the flight all count as extras that you can bring in addition to your carry-on and personal item.

Recommended personal item: Ronyes Unisex College Bag

Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

Spirit has a slightly more generous size limit for its carry-ons than most other U.S. airlines, with a maximum of 22 x 18 x 10 inches. The catch, though, is that you’ll have to pay extra to bring anything beyond a personal item.

Recommended carry-on: eBags TLS Mother Lode Mini 21″ Wheeled Carry-on Duffel

Spirit Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

Personal items can be up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches, large enough to include a sizable purse or smaller backpack.

Recommended personal item: Lululemon Commuter Multi-Wear Backpack

United Airlines

United Airlines Carry-on Size Limit

On United, the maximum carry-on size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Note, however, that if you’re traveling in basic economy, you may only bring a personal item. (There are a few exceptions: those traveling on transatlantic flights, and Premier members or primary card members using qualifying MileagePlus credit cards.)

Recommended carry-on:

United Airlines Personal Item Size Limit

United personal items must fit under the seat in front of you and may not be larger than 17 x 10 x 9 inches. Items such as jackets, umbrellas, diaper bags, food purchased in the airport, assistive devices, child safety seats, cameras, and reading material may be brought aboard in addition to your carry-on and personal item.

Recommended personal item: Herschel Nova Backpack

Carry-on and Personal Item Size Limits on International Airlines

The chart below features the maximum sizes for carry-on bags and personal items on 22 major international airlines. Note that baggage restrictions may vary depending on your specific route. Some measurements are approximate, having been converted from centimeters into inches or from kilograms into pounds.

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Jamie Ditaranto is a writer and photographer who is always looking for her next adventure. Follow her on Twitter @jamieditaranto.

Editor’s note: Sarah Schlichter contributed to this story. This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post Carry-On and Personal Item Size Limits for 32 Major Airlines appeared first on SmarterTravel.

State Cashmere The Mock-Neck Quarter Zip Polo Sweater

Cashmere is a great choice for long flights. It feels soft and luxurious, and offers plenty of lightweight warmth in chilly cabins. State Cashmere’s Mock-Neck Quarter Zip Polo Sweater looks polished and can be worn off the plane when you need a warmer layer.

Orvis Favorite Printed Tee Modal Dress

Orvis’ Favorite Printed Tee Modal Dress is designed to feel like you’re wearing shorts and a tee-shirt—while you look pulled-together (no effort required). The buttery soft cotton/modal fabric is breathable and stretchy, so you won’t be restricted (even in a tiny coach seat). 

A gathered stretch waist flatters all body types—and there are even two large pockets on the sides of the dress.

Unbound Merino Lightweight Merino Travel Pants

Merino wool is another solid fabric for long travel days. The non-scratchy wool helps regulate your temperature, resists odors, and never wrinkles. Unbound Merino’s Merino Travel Pants are made from a superfine merino wool that’s lighter and silkier than regular wool or cotton. The relaxed fit pants feature a slip-on waist that’s comfortable no matter how long you sit, and the pants thankfully even have functional pockets.

Eddie Bauer Men’s Baja Short-Sleeve Shirt

Made from 100 percent cotton, Eddie Bauer’s Baja Short-Sleeve Shirt is pre-shrunk so you can toss it in the washer and dryer without worry after your flight. The shirt is super breathable, making it a great pick for warm weather trips.

Luxeire Classic Button Up

Need to make a good impression as soon as you land? Luxeire’s Classic Button Up looks like a traditional shirt, but is made from an eco-friendly technical fabric that’s soft and wrinkle-resistant. 

Unlike regular button-downs, this shirt is designed to minimize gaping and stay tucked in for the perfect tailored fit.

Vionic Willa Slip-On Flat

Don’t be that person who takes their shoes off on a plane—instead, wear Vionic’s Willa Slip-On Flats and you’ll be as comfortable as if you were wearing slippers. These velvety-soft loafers look elegant, but conceal comfort-focused features like a built-in orthotic, removable plush footbed, and a roomy toe box. 

Krimson Klover Murphy Dress

Krimson Klover’s Murphy midi dress is the perfect length for travel—long enough to keep you warm on the plane, but airy enough that you won’t overheat when you land at a hot destination. The elastic waistband gives a flattering shape without being too constricting. Side slits and a cotton/spandex fabric give you plenty of room to move in this dress.

State Cashmere Ribbed Scoop-Neck Sweater

Our favorite cashmere for women is made by State Cashmere, which uses ethically-sourced cashmere from Kashmir goats. The ribbed scoop-neck sweater will keep you warm in-flight, and then can be easily dressed up or down once you’re off the plane. 

Orvis Printed Linen/Cotton Tank Dress

Flying out of a hot destination with an unairconditioned airport? Orvis’ Printed Linen/Cotton Tank Dress will keep you nice and cool—and looking presentable, no matter how high the temperatures get. 

The cooling fabric is soft and breathable and is even machine washable. Two pockets give you a place to tuck your phone or other essentials when you need to go hands-free.

Madewell Ponte Wide-Leg Pants

Wide-leg jeans are in style right now, but who wants to fly for hours with a denim waistband digging in uncomfortably? Instead, wear Madewell’s Ponte Wide-Leg Pants, which are made from a stretchy ponte fabric and feature an elastic waistband that’s comfortable even if you’re sitting for hours.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Circle Cardi

Packing an extra layer for the plane will never be a waste—an oversized cardigan, like this one by Barefoot Dreams, can double as a blanket or pillow if you’re not wearing it. This cozy sweater features two pockets so you can keep in-flight essentials close by. 

The post 11 Travel Clothes That Feel Like Pajamas (But Look First Class) appeared first on SmarterTravel.

What to Wear While Flying: Always Wear These Things on the Plane

The following items provide plenty of comfort plus a touch of style, making them the best clothes for flying. Be the best dressed in the cabin with our guide to in-flight apparel.

Layers, Layers, Layers

Air travel is often an assemblage of disparate micro-climates, from the sweat-inducing sunny tarmac to the arctic air-conditioned cabin during flight. Fight that discomfort with plenty of layers like a washable travel scarf/wrap/blanket hybrid that’s a large enough to snuggle underneath when it’s particularly chilly.

Pashminas, shawls, wraps, cardigans, sweatshirts, vests, and light jackets are perfect. You can even fold or roll soft items, like cotton jackets, and use them as makeshift pillows during flight. Plus, the more layers you pile on your body, the less you need to pack in your luggage. Roll items and stuff them in your carry-on bag or personal item if you’re too warm.

Layers that help you regulate temperature while flying also come in very handy when traveling through various (actual) climates. And for travelers hitting the road during shoulder season, when the weather is particularly unpredictable, layers are key for optimal comfort.

Breathable Fabrics

Maintain in-flight comfort and cleanliness by wearing breathable fabrics—materials like cotton, silk, or linen. Fabrics that don’t allow air to circulate will hold in sweat, likely making you feel dirtier faster and probably necessitating a good spin in the washing machine upon landing. Natural fabrics are great, but moisture-wicking manmade fabrics are suitable options as well: Active Pursuit 7/8 Tights from REI Co-op are a polyester/spandex blend that’s incredibly quick-drying.

Merino wool is one of the best options for odor and moisture resistance; you can wear it straight off the plane without needing to wash it in between. Proof’s 72-Hour Merino Tee makes the perfect base layer, and can be worn for 72 hours without acquiring bad smells. For women, consider Unbound Merino’s Wool Long Sleeve T-Shirt, which is made from 100% merino wool that’s soft and cozy on cold planes while wicking any sweat away from the skin.

Support or Compression Legwear

Many doctors recommend that pregnant women wear support or compression stockings in flight. But compression legwear is also a good choice for those with pre-existing medical conditions, any travelers taking long-haul flights, and anyone who flies often. Compression socks or stockings, which promote blood circulation, help prevent swelling of the legs, and help guard against deep vein thrombosis (DVT), work by putting pressure on leg muscles and increasing blood flow. These don’t have to look like medical wear either—there are plenty of stylish compression sock options available.

Comfortable, Simple Shoes

It’s best to wear extremely comfortable, flat shoes on the plane—think of your poor feet after hours or even days of sitting, standing, and walking en route to your destination. You’ll also want to select shoes that are easy to slip on and off when passing through airport security. Cole Haan slip-ons offer sneaker-grade comfort in a stylish package, as do Toms (for men and women) and ECCO Footwear.

Clothes with Lots of Pockets

With all kinds of airline baggage fees adding on to the price of a ticket these days, clothes that do double duty as a wearable carry-on bag are de rigueur. The SCOTTeVEST cotton hoodie is available for men and women, and one of our picks for great accessories and clothes with hidden pockets. And there are myriad other travel jackets out there that feature an explosion of pockets, like Lightweight Down Puffer Jacket from Quince, made from certified responsible down and featuring interior pockets for valuables like wallets and passports.

Leggings with pockets can be an essential part of a plane outfit for stashing a phone or passport while still keeping it easily accessible. Arc’teryx’s Essent High-Rise Leggings have pockets big enough to hold even the biggest smartphone, and the style is sleek enough to wear under dresses, or as pants during a hike at your destination.

For men, Public Rec’s Workday Pants can pass as business casual while hiding plenty of pockets. The pants also have a touch of spandex woven into the fabric to keep you comfortable on long-haul flights.

Loose-Fitting Clothing

As mentioned before, deep vein thrombosis is a danger on flights, where travelers stuck in cramped seats for long periods of time are at greater risk for developing blood clots. Leave your skinny jeans at home and opt for less restrictive garments like Duluth Trading’s NoGA Classic Slim Leg Pants, which have the flattering fit of leggings but aren’t skin-tight, falling loosely around the ankles for maximum comfort.

Something Stylish

Don’t throw fashion out the window. When it comes to dressing for a flight, a lot of advice focuses on function. But dressing with a bit of style—while keeping conscious of comfort of course—could help you get a free upgrade. An anonymous source once told Goop: “On a Virgin flight back to Heathrow, I spotted one of the staff’s monitors that read, ‘Look for well-dressed people to upgrade.’” This won’t happen every time, but if you are hoping to get upgraded, it helps to look smart. The Drapey Square Shirt from Everlane is flowy but still look good once you disembark. For men, their classic, logo-free tee is comfortable without being restrictive and will let you blend in anywhere.

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The Perfect Plane Outfit for Women

Shoes

Look for a pair of breathable shoes that are easy to slip on and off. If you have TSA PreCheck, don’t worry about wearing socks. Wool Runners and the Wool Loungers from Allbirds are super comfortable and breathable so you can go sockless, and the neutral colors go with any outfit.

Scarf

A convertible shawl or scarf that can double as a blanket is a necessity for every female traveler. This bamboo shawl can be transformed into many things—a cardigan, shawl, infinity scarf, hood, plane blanket, and other customizable options. The fabric is breathable and sweat-wicking, so you won’t overheat on the plane with this layer.

Shirt

Bamboo is a great material for travel, as it is thin and comfortable but still holds up to sweat and heat, making it a perfect layering piece for any climate (or airplane temperature). These bamboo tops from Amazon are inexpensive and come in a wide variety of colors to match the rest of your vacation wardrobe.

Pants

A comfortable pair of pants completes a perfect plane outfit. The right pair allows you to step off the plane ready to go and looking professional. Find a pair with a touch of spandex for ultimate in-flight comfort. Betabrand’s Cosmo Lite Yoga Dress Pants come in a stretchy nylon-elastane blend that’s not too tight but still holds you in and gives you a smooth silhouette.

Personal Item

Don’t forget the perfect bag for all your carry-on essentials. Look for a slim backpack to free up your hands while traveling and optimize your legroom while flying. The Kanken by Fjallraven fits perfectly under the seat in front of you and has a laptop compartment, two side pockets for items you’ll need easy access to, plus as an inner sleeve and a front zippered pocket. It completes your perfect plane outfit.

Outer Layer

Depending on the time of year and your destination, you’ll want to travel with a versatile outer layer. Look for something in a neutral color and a lightweight fabric. This drapey open-front cardigan can transition from day to night, and goes with almost every outfit in a pinch.

The Perfect Plane Outfit for Men

Shoes

Look cool and comfortable with the Runner-up Mizzles from Allbirds. These shoes will keep you dry on your trek to and from the airport even in the worst of weather conditions, then keep you cozy in flight.

Blazer

The Gramercy Blazer from Bluffworks doesn’t wrinkle, so it’s ideal for going straight from plane to boardroom. It also has 10 built-in pockets to hold your wallet, passport, headphones, and more on travel days.

Shirt

A basic and comfortable T-shirt is perhaps the most important part of your perfect plane outfit. I love Huckberry’s incredibly soft 72-Hour Merino Tee. The odor-resistant wool fabric will keep you feeling fresh after a long travel day.

Pants

A comfortable pair of pants is a key component for a great travel outfit, and Bluffworks’ Airline Pants are designed specifically with in-flight style in mind. These pants combine the look of a dress pant with the feel of a jogger, creating a stylish silhouette with extra stretch for sitting for long hours on the plane.

Backpack

The SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA laptop Backpack will make you a more organized traveler. The compartmentalized backpack is an ideal carry-on bag with separate pockets for travel essentials and your tech gear, making it easy to find your stuff quickly during your flight.

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 18 Things You Should Always Wear on a Plane appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Foods You Should Never Eat Before Flying

Leave these dining disasters off your pre-flight checklist and avoid the dreaded “jet bloat,” being the stinky seatmate, and other in-flight horrors. Read on to find out the eight foods you should never eat before flying.

Fried or Fast Food

Tempted by those ubiquitous airport fast-food restaurants? You should know that digestion is even harder for your body at 35,000 feet. Add that to the trouble the human digestive system already has processing saturated fats, and you’ve got a recipe for heartburn or an upset stomach. Scientists have also found that eating saturated fat can constrict blood flow, which could increase your risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Alcohol

Okay, it’s not a food, but you should still avoid this beverage. That beer or vodka tonic may hit the spot, but it’s also dehydrating. Unfortunately, the air we breathe in planes isn’t humidified, which also causes flyers to become dehydrated. Throw alcohol into the mix and you may be more relaxed, but you’ll come off the flight feeling parched and miserable. And keep in mind that alcohol has a bigger effect on your body at higher altitudes!

Cruciferous Vegetables

The airplane’s cabin is pressurized, but that doesn’t mean the air is the same as it is on the ground. Did you know that after takeoff, the air pressure in the cabin decreases, causing the cabin air to expand by around 30 percent? This can cause swallowed air and gases in the stomach and small intestine to expand, leading to an uncomfortable, bloated feeling. Minimize the effect by staying away from broccoli, cauliflower, and other cruciferous vegetables that can increase bloating.

Carbonated Beverages

Carbonated beverages, like soda and beer, are also major contributors to bloating. Picture the bubbles you’re swallowing as tiny balloons that will end up in your stomach—and then rapidly expand when the air pressure changes. Not comfortable!

Sugar-Free Gum and Candy

Sugar-free products may be a blessing to dieters and diabetics, but they usually contain artificial sweeteners. Unfortunately, the human body’s not designed to process synthetic sugars very well, and they can cause bloating, gas, and even have a laxative effect—not what you want if you don’t plan to spend the whole flight in the tiny airplane bathroom. Check the package when you’re buying sugar-free gum or candy—many products carry a warning label about these unpleasant side effects.

Legumes

Beans have a bad rap for being another major gas culprit. Many types of beans and other legumes naturally contain indigestible complex sugars that can lead to onboard bloating. Can’t live without your traditional English breakfast with a side of baked beans? Soaking the beans overnight can eliminate many of the problem sugars.

Garlic

Garlic is delicious, but it sure does linger on your breath—and in your body odor. Garlic contains sulfuric compounds that are absorbed into your bloodstream and lungs. This means you’re literally exhaling that garlic smell (even if you’ve brushed your teeth), and it’s seeping out of your pores. So for the sake of your seatmates, skip the garlic pasta before boarding.

Airplane-Provided Water, Ice, Coffee, or Tea

It’s important to stay hydrated while flying, but you’re better off BYOW (Bringing Your Own Water) rather than grabbing a free drink from the beverage cart. Tests done by the EPA a few years ago showed that one out of every seven planes had tank water that did not meet federal standards, and in fact contained bacteria like E. coli. Although beverage carts might give you “bottled” water from a large bottle, that bottle could have been refilled using the tank water. Coffee and tea are often made from the same tank water, which is usually not heated enough to kill germs. Ice is also sometimes made on board, so it’s best to pass on that as well.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2012. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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Experienced flyers know the drill—when a plane is taking off or landing, the cabin lights are dimmed. You may have wondered why lights are lowered during these periods of the flight—afterall, wouldn’t bright light be better to see if anything goes wrong?

Sarah McWilliams Guerra, a former Delta Air Lines flight attendant, tells SmarterTravel, “At night, it’s beneficial to have the cabin to be the same level of lighting as outside. That way if there is a crash at landing, the flight attendants won’t have to adjust to the outside lighting to help aid in a faster evacuation.”

Making the cabin darker will also make the glowing emergency path-lighting and exit signs more visible and potentially help passengers find their way out of a plane faster if needed. 

This is also why flight attendants will ask passengers to raise their window shades during takeoff and landing—so that everyone’s eyes can adjust to the light conditions outside. (Having the window shades open is also important so that flight attendants can see any hazards outside the aircraft.)

The post Why Are Airplane Cabin Lights Dimmed for Takeoff and Landing? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Slamming Your Seat Back

We won’t get in to the recline vs. no-recline debate, but we can all agree that people who slam their seat straight back immediately after takeoff, without even sparing a glance behind them to see if they’re about to smash a laptop screen or send a drink flying, are the absolute worst. We can all agree on that, right?

Fighting for the Armrest

The poor middle seat passenger should at least get some pity armrest space from the aisle and window seat flyers. Don’t agree and want to passive-aggressively elbow the person next to you the entire flight? Congratulations, you’re a terrible human being.

Pounding the Seatback Screen

The on-demand entertainment screens on the seatback don’t always function the way they should, but when you’re pounding on the screen trying to get it to work, don’t forget about the person sitting in front of you who’s feeling his seat shake with every selection you make. Be gentle or, better yet, use the remote.

Smelling Bad

Is the sense of relief you feel after removing your shoes stronger than the smell of your feet wafting through the cabin? There are reasons you might smell bad when traveling that can be beyond your control, but if you’re tainting the cabin air on purpose by going barefoot or eating something odorous, your fellow flyers are justified in their hatred towards you.

Stealing the Overhead Space

The tiny overhead bins are a huge minefield of airplane etiquette. Major violations include: throwing your stuff in the first overhead bin you see even though your seat is at the back of the plane, utilizing it for small items like a sweatshirt, or taking up all the space with oversized carry-ons.

Not Using Headphones

You have amazing taste in music and movies, so why wouldn’t you want to share your selections with the entire plane? Turns out the people two rows ahead of you may not want to spend the entire flight listening to bleeps and bloops from the game you’re playing on your phone, so please do us all a favor and plug in headphones or entertain yourself on mute.

Ignoring Your Own Children

We get it, you can’t always control a screaming baby. But if you’re pretending to be engrossed in your book while your kid is kicking the back of a seat or running wild down the aisles, be prepared to make some plane enemies.

Caroline Morse Teel tries to follow proper airplane etiquette on all flights. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for photos from the window seat. 

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