With spring break (and summer!) quickly approaching, a long plane or car trip may not be far away. I’ve ridden in planes and cars more times than I can count in the last 18 years, so it’s safe to say I’m an authority on what to wear on a long trip. Here are a few tips to get you started.
-Comfort is of the utmost importance. Odds are, you’re going to have a long day. Wearing heels to the airport may make you feel like a celebrity, but your feet will kill you. Go for soft fabrics, loose cuts, and flat shoes. My ideal fall/winter outfit for a long plane ride or car trip would be a great striped sweater, dark wash jeans, a striped sweater, a great scarf, and oxfords or ballet flats. Cute and comfy!
-Dress in layers, especially if you’re going on a plane. Planes can be very cold.
-Wear your heaviest clothes on the plane. That way, you don’t have to worry about fitting them into your bag for the trip home.
-If you’re on a plane or in the car in summer, a dress is probably a better option than shorts. Bring a cardigan in your carry-on just in case. I’ve learned this the hard way.
-Fight off boredom by bringing some great books or magazines in your carry-on. You’ll have to turn off all electronics at the beginning of the flight, so relying on those for entertainment isn’t a good idea. If you’re taking a long car ride, handheld games (especially on a Nintendo DS) or movies on a laptop (Netflix and Hulu) will pass the time nicely.
-Keep makeup to a minimum. Lip stain, a little concealer or foundation, and mascara is probably all you’ll need. Bring a brush or comb in your purse or carry-on bag though.
Here are a few tips for first-time fliers:
-Don’t wear jewelry, and wear flat shoes. You’ll have to take your jewelry and shoes off while going through security. A scarf is a great substitute; it will add a pop of color to your outfit while keeping your neck warm.
-Make sure your bag will be easy to spot at the baggage claim. I prefer a brightly colored bag, but if your bag is black, make or buy a bright luggage tag.
-If you’re worried about flying, don’t be. Your ears may pop during takeoff if you aren’t used to high altitudes, but this can be easily avoided by chewing gum during takeoff. You won’t feel a thing!
I hope I helped!
What do you wear on long trips? Let me know at [email protected].
Marie Chaney is an 18-year-old freshman studying fashion and journalism at LSU. She wishes she could go to New York for Spring Break.
