Before You Fly, Think Twice About Your Outfit—Not Just Your Passport

When getting ready for a flight, most of us double-check our passport, pack our suitcase, and maybe even plan our in-flight entertainment. But rarely do we give much thought to what we’ll wear on the plane.

Still, your choice of outfit can make a bigger difference than you might think. And that go-to jeans-and-tee combo? It might actually be the wrong choice.

Why Your Airplane Outfit Matters More Than You Think

Flying is often associated with comfort, so it’s no surprise many travelers default to jeans and a t-shirt. But according to Andrea Fischbach, a veteran flight attendant at American Airlines, that’s not the most practical option. With years of experience and countless flights under her belt, Andrea offers this advice: go for long, loose clothing.

So why ditch the casual classics?

Bare Arms: A Surprisingly Bad Idea

Andrea shares a bit of personal wisdom: her mother always told her to dress warmly on planes—and she’s stuck to that advice ever since.

In the event of an emergency—like an abrupt landing—your skin can take a beating. Evacuating via an inflatable slide isn’t exactly a thrill ride; those slides can be rough and even abrasive. If your arms are bare, you’re at greater risk for cuts, scrapes, or burns.