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Here’s Why You Should Never Wear This Type of Dress When Flying, According to a Pilot’s Wife
Published on May 21, 2025
We all love a good travel hack—like how to score the best seat on a plane and breeze through airport security. But one thing many of us overlook (myself included) is what we wear when flying. As a frequent flier who thought I had a good handle on in-flight wardrobe choices, I was shocked to learn that one of my go-to outfits is actually a big no-no.
According to travel expert Laurie—a pilot’s wife known for sharing packing hacks, airport-security tips and vacation-outfit ideas—there’s one type of dress you should never wear on a plane. The reason why might shock you, and it will likely change how you dress for your next flight.
If comfort and style are your travel musts, you’ll want to read on. We’re breaking down the dress styles to avoid at 30,000 feet—and what you should wear instead for a smoother flight.
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What type of dress shouldn’t you wear on a flight?
You should skip long, flowy dresses when heading to the airport, according to Laurie. We’re just as shocked as you! After all, they’re breezy, comfortable and oh-so-chic. You look instantly put-together even though you feel like you’re in your pajamas. How could something so perfect be a travel mistake? Well, we’re about to tell you.
Why are they a problem?
For many of us, flowy dresses are the perfect alternative to uncomfortable jeans or shorts, the latter of which usually leave you chilly on planes. But Laurie shares a few unexpected reasons why these wardrobe staples might actually cause more trouble than they’re worth.
- They can cause issues at TSA. “The pocket of air that a flowy dress makes could cause a dense area to show up that the machine can’t see through,” Laurie shares in an Instagram post. The result? Getting stuck at the TSA checkpoint because you need further inspection and/or a pat-down.
- They’re magnets for messes. From brushing up against seats to accidentally dipping into sauces and assorted foods on open tray tables, flowy dresses tend to catch everything in their path. Laurie warns that they’re more likely to get stained or knock over items in tight airplane aisles.
What should you wear to the airport?
In her travel-hack videos, Laurie recommends opting for stretchy or cinched-waist pants—they’re comfy, stylish and easy to move in. Pair them with a breathable top to stay cool during your flight, and don’t forget a cardigan. It’s the perfect layering piece if you want to avoid lugging around a heavy jacket but still need something cozy when the cabin gets chilly.
And here’s a big tip: Wear comfortable shoes. Sure, you might want to strut off the plane in heels, but your feet will thank you if you stick to something more supportive. Plus, flight attendants recommend sensible footwear in case of an emergency.
Does this mean you have to ditch dresses altogether?
No! If dresses are still your go-to travel outfit, you can make them work with a few smart tweaks. Opt for midi or knee-length styles that offer ease of movement but won’t drag on the floor or billow outward as you walk through the airport or settle into your seat. And look for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
Of course, bonus points if the dress has pockets. Dresses with pockets make everything better when you’re on the go—and, let’s be honest, always.
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Why trust us
Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. For this piece, Reader’s Digest Associate Editor Mariah Thomas tapped her experience as a journalist and a frequent flier. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
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