The Ultimate Guide to Dressing for a 10-Hour Flight to Europe

Packing for a trip to Europe and wondering what to wear on that lengthy, transatlantic flight? Your favorite Europe tour guide has rounded up all of the best tips for looking great (and feeling comfortable) on a flight to Europe.​

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Wondering what to wear on a flight to Europe?

Flight over Paris (SCP)

Are you planning a 10-hour long haul flight to Europe but have no idea what to wear? First of all, lucky you! There's nothing quite like a flight to Europe. Whether it's your first or your tenth, there's no better feeling than taking off, knowing you'll be landing in the midst of your next great adventure.

That said, selecting your outfit for a transatlantic flight is a bizarrely daunting task, at least in my experience. Not only do you want to be comfortable throughout the entire journey, but also you want to arrive at your long-awaited destination feeling (and looking) your best. 

After more than my fair share of flights to Europe, I've rounded up my tips and tricks to make sure you're both comfortable and stylish for your journey.

From making the most of your outfit to bring items you'll want in Europe and packing your carry-on, to choosing breathable fabrics and packing a change of clothes, I will provide a roadmap to ensure you arrive in Europe feeling fresh and ready to explore. We'll start with FAQs, then move into rules to dress by and then a few actual item suggestions.

So sit back, relax and read on for my top tips on how to dress for a 10-hour flight to Europe. And while you're here, I hope you'll take some time to explore my main other free resources for planning (and packing for) a trip to Europe. I resources of many European countries, if you have a minute to poke around!

• {2025} The Ultimate Guide to Packing for 10 Days in Europe
• What to Wear in Paris, What to Wear in Scotland, What to Wear in Italy​, What to Wear in London
• 6+ Must-See Art Museums for Your First Trip to Paris
• 5+ Enchanting Day Trips from Edinburgh Without a Car
• {2025} 7+ Essentials You'll Need in Europe This Summer​

Frequently Asked Questions:
​What to Wear on a Flight to Europe

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easy long flight outfit ideas

What is the best clothing to wear on a plane?

​The best clothing to wear on a plane is lightweight layers, comfortable shoes for airport walking, that aren't too tight in case your feet swell on the plane, and a bag that you can easily access under your seat during the flight.

What should I wear to the airport for an international flight?

I always recommend that your airport outfit have two important qualities: it's comfortable, but also nice enough that you feel presentable arriving in your destination wearing it. No pj's, please.

How do I look classy on a plane?

The easiest way to look classy on a plane is to wear a monochrome outfit. A single color is sleek, trending, elevated, and does not impact your comfort on the plane for the sake of style.

And they say the perfect travel wrap doesn't exist...

Shop my outfit here!

Rules to Dress By on a Flight to Europe

Layer Up

 Select clothes that are easy to take off and put back on, such as a light sweater or a cardigan over a basic tee. You can adjust your clothing to the temperature on the plane, which can fluctuate throughout the flight.

Particularly in warmer months, the time spent on the tarmac can be extremely warm, but once you've over the Atlantic, you'll find yourself reaching for the weird airplane blanket.

Don't forget to wear close-toed shoes. Not only are "flip flops" not appropriate for Europe, but your toes will be freezing mid-flight. We'll talk more about shoes later.

Additionally, wearing layers allows you to be prepared for any weather conditions you may encounter upon arrival in Europe.

Chose Breathable Fabrics

When selecting your outfit for a 10-hour flight to Europe, it's important to not only consider style, but also comfort. One key factor to keep in mind is choosing breathable fabrics. 

Breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, and bamboo allow air to circulate and prevent overheating. These materials are ideal for layering and can be used to create a comfortable yet stylish outfit. Opt for lightweight knitwear or a relaxed-fit blouse to wear with your favorite pair of jeans or (not too tight) leggings. 

Moreover, choosing breathable fabrics is also a great way to combat jet lag. Your body temperature plays a crucial role in regulating your sleep-wake cycle, so wearing breathable materials can help you maintain a comfortable temperature, allowing you to rest and recharge during air travel. 

FAQ: Should I wear make-up on an overnight flight?

Wearing heavy make-up on an overnight flight is a hassle. I would avoid eye make-up beyond eyebrow pencil. A tinted moisturizer probably won't cramp your style too much either. But, generally, overnight flights are best spent asleep, and eye make-up will almost certainly be all over your face when you wake up.

​Some women bring a small amount of make-up in their purse and put some on in the airport or on the way to the hotel, if they're really concerned about it.

FAQ: Should I bring a travel pillow on a flight to Europe?

If at all possible, I would give travel pillows a spin either at home or on a domestic flight before you commit to hauling one to Europe. I tend to bring one - anything helps!! But, they are bulky and can be a pain to carry through the airport. I'd buy a cheap one somewhere like TJ Maxx that you can get rid of or jam into the overhead bin without guilt, if you lose interest, or for that day time return flight.

Selecting a Purse for a Flight to Europe

While I have opined at length on selecting luggage for a trip to Europe and how to pack your suitcase for 10 days in Europe, figuring out which purse/tote/'hand luggage' you'll want on the flight with you deserves its own section in this post. The purse/bag you take on the plane with you should have a few relevant qualities:

• Small enough that you can fit it under your seat, so you can access it during the flight, but have enough room for your feet
• Big enough to hold whatever you'll need in-flight

I generally bring a medium-sized tote, and put the small, crossbody purse I'll actually carry in Europe in the tote as essentially my wallet. This way, I can use the tote to store a water bottle, reading materials, noise-cancelling head phones, my phone, etc. I generally use my Louis Vuitton Never Full or a Longchamp, because they're durable, but pretty worn out, and I don't mind them being on the floor of the airplane during a long plane ride.

The Best Pants for a Flight to Europe

I'd say the most common question I get about picking an outfit for a flight to Europe is: "what pants should I wear on the plane?" While comfort is certainly key, there's no need to look like you have the flu. Absolutely, unquestionably: leave the flannel pants at home. 

I would recommend a travel set, structured joggers, or leggings, covered by a long top as the perfect travel outfit. 
Stick to dark colors, in case of spills. White pants on a long travel day is a recipe for disaster.
Avoid any wrinkle-prone fabrics. While those linen trousers may look like great travel pants, you and I both know they'll be a crumpled mess when you're wheels down at Heathrow.

Jeans start to dig in after the first few hours of sitting. 
I would avoid tight pants, and remember you'll be eating several meals on the plane. Conversely, I'd also avoid extra wide leg pants, as they tend to be trouser-style, which has an uncomfortable waistband, and I prefer not to have excess fabric swooshing around in an airplane bathroom. You certainly do not want your pants even remotely dragging on the ground.

FAQ: Is it OK to wear jeans for a long flight? 

While you "can" wear jeans on a long flight, they're likely not the most comfortable option. Additionally, you will likely want to wear whatever jeans you take on your trip multiple times, and I try to avoid re-wearing the basics of my airplane outfit, at all costs. I might be a bit of a germaphobe, but there's nothing worse than being sick on vacation, if you can avoid it.

​If you do want to wear jeans, I'd avoid skinny jeans (they're out of fashion anyway), because your legs will feel extremely squished by the end of the flight, or any sort of 'distressed' jeans, as you'll look ratty in Europe.

FAQ: What should I wear on an long flight in the summer?

Picking the Right Shoes for a Flight to Europe

When planning your outfit for a long-haul flight, it's easy to focus solely on your clothing, forget about your footwear, and cram your feet into whatever's near the backdoor as you rush to the airport. However, choosing the right comfortable shoes can make a big difference in your comfort before, during, and after your long-haul flight.

First and foremost, opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off, as you'll likely be taking them on and off during security checks, if you haven't signed up for TSA Precheck/Clear/Global Entry. As I mentioned, flip-flops are not appropriate in Europe, your feet will be freezing on the plane, and, frankly, you do not want to be barefoot going through airport security. Ew.

Do not even think about wearing open-toed shoes on a flight to Europe. Beyond all of the airport filth, the cabin of an international flight, particularly close to the walls and floor, gets surprisingly chilly over the Atlantic Ocean in the middle of the night.

In addition to ease of wear, consider the level of support your shoes provide. Walking around the airport before or during your flight can help prevent stiffness and improve circulation, so choose shoes that offer adequate support for your feet and ankles. Leave the high heels at home. Even in International First Class or Business Class, I've never seen anyone in high heels.

Think about the climate and conditions you'll be facing upon arrival. If you'll be walking around a lot upon arrival, comfortable and sturdy shoes will be key.

And, finally, remember that the shoes you wear are one item that don't have to be in your suitcase. So I generally recommend wearing the heaviest/bulkiest shoes that you in tend to take on the trip, on the plane.

Generally, this will translate into sleek sneakers or casual loafers. Not the tennis shoes you wear to mow the lawn or work out, but a nice, clean, neutral pair of sneakers.

For more information on this topic, read my full post on Packing Shoes for a Trip to Europe

FAQ: Should I wear compression socks on a long haul flight?

​Sure! If you have a medical condition or are prone to swelling or are concerned about blood clots and deep vein thrombosis, it's a good idea to ask your doctor before traveling on a long-haul flight. Blood circulation is good for all of us! In addition to getting up and walking around, compression socks may provide additional comfort and blood flow for your legs and feet. Want to learn more? Don't take my word for it. UCLA Health: Wearing Compression Socks on Long Flights Helps with DVT

Curious about the shoes you'll need in Europe? Check out the full post: Europe Travel Shoes

Accessories You Can Wear on Your Trip

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Adding the right accessories to your outfit can elevate your style and take your travel outfit to the next level. Take this outfit opportunity to plan ahead and wear items you can sport multiple times when you're across the pond.

Scarves are a great way to add some color and texture to your outfit, and can also keep you warm if the airplane gets chilly. A necklace or earrings can add some sparkle to a simple outfit, while a belt can cinch your waist and add some shape to a loose dress or shirt.

Additionally, a hat can not only add some personality to your outfit, but also keep your face protected from the sun upon arrival, particularly if you'll be visiting a Mediterranean destination. Sunglasses are a must-have for any flight, and a stylish pair can make you feel like a celebrity as you walk through the airport. ​

FAQ: Should I bring my winter coat on my flight to Europe?

To answer this question, we need to take a step back and consider whether you need to bring your winter coat to Europe at all. Dig into the forecast at your destination and confirm whether there will even be enough cold weather to need a true winter coat.

​I have taken my winter coat 'across the pond' in Fall and Spring, only to find that I never even put it on. Assuming it is cold enough to bring your coat, remember that you'll likely have to put it under your seat, unless there's room in the overhead bin. If you can put it into a suitcase, I would, unless you're in the First Class (lucky you!)

What You Need to Know Before Your First Trip to Europe

Practicalities: Don't Forget a Full Change of Clothes

The Roman Forum (SPC)

Even the most comfortable outfit will feel stale after hours of sitting in the same clothes. And while you obviously hope you'll arrive at your much-researched European hotel to be told they've been expecting you and have prepared your room bright and early for their lovely American guests, the reality is, your room is almost never ready at 10 AM Europe time.

That's where packing a change of clothes comes in handy.
 Consider packing a lightweight blouse or shirt that you can easily swap out with your travel top, or even a fresh pair of leggings or pants in your carry-on bag.

When choosing your change of clothes, think about the type of activities you have planned once you arrive. If you're heading straight to a fancy dinner or business meeting, pack something dressier that can easily transition from day to night. Alternatively, if you're planning on exploring the city opt for something comfortable and practical.

By packing a change of clothes, you can ensure that you feel fresh and put-together upon arrival at your destination, no matter what the day may bring.

Practical Travel Outfits for a Flight to Europe

I've compiled a few of my suggested comfy airplane outfits, to get the juices flowing as you plan your long haul flight outfit!

Thanks for stopping by!

Flying to Paris (SPC)

Dressing for a 10-hour flight to Europe doesn't have to be intimidating. I hope I've given you some food for thought as you're planning your perfect outfit for a flight to Europe.

And while you're here, I hope you'll check out all of my many, many free resources on planning and packing for your trip to Europe, including country-specific packing resources:

• What to Wear in Paris, What to Wear in Scotland, What to Wear in Italy​, What to Wear in London
• 6+ Must-See Art Museums for Your First Trip to Paris
• 5+ Enchanting Day Trips from Edinburgh Without a Car
• {2025} 7+ Essentials You'll Need in Europe This Summer

If you love classy travel outfits, follow me on LTK for travel outfits and essentials!

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