Sweatpants for a long flight

Short answer: For a long flight, sweatpants should be soft and roomy, with no hard seams or tight edges that press when you sit for many hours. Choose a fit that leaves room to bend your legs, and think about layers, because the cabin shifts between warm and cool.

Why sweatpants suit travel

You sit for many hours in a small space, and then every little irritation matters. Sweatpants have a soft elastic waist and a loose cut that gives the legs air. There is no button or zip pressing on the stomach, and they are quick to put on before departure.

The waist and the elastic

The waist is the spot you feel most when you sit for a long time, especially after a meal on board. Choose an elastic that sits firmly without cutting in, and a drawstring you can loosen a little if you need to. Sit in them at home for half an hour before you travel.

Length and ankles

A leg that is too long gets trodden on across the airport floor, and one that is too tight can pinch at the ankle. Choose a length that ends at the ankle or falls straight, so you can take shoes on and off easily at security. Allow for socks too.

The cabin is cool

The air in the cabin is dry and can feel cold, especially at night. A roomy pair of sweatpants leaves space for a thinner layer underneath if you feel the chill, and you can take it off if you get warm. Remember the floor is often colder than the rest, and bring socks.

A top for the same trip

A soft top in the same style makes the trip easier, and you can look at the range of bamboo sweat for men if you want a set. Choose a roomy top that can be used as a pillow or blanket if you want to rest. It takes little space in hand luggage when you are not wearing it.

Movement and breaks

On a long flight it is good to stand up and walk through the cabin when you can. A pair of soft, flexible trousers makes it easy to stretch your legs. If you have questions about your body and long flights, talk to your doctor before you travel.

Pack smartly

Sweatpants take up room, and they should preferably not go at the bottom of the suitcase. Wear them for the journey instead of packing them, and you save space. If you need a change, you can fold a pair into hand luggage, where they hardly crease.

After landing

After a long journey it is nice to change out of the sweatpants when you arrive. Air them and hang them up so they can recover. If you are looking for more favourites for travel and everyday life, see the bestsellers for men, which many choose again.

When the trousers need washing

Wash sweatpants according to the care label, usually at a low temperature and without fabric softener, which can stiffen the fabric. Turn them inside out so they do not pill. Also see the range of bamboo sweatpants for men if you want a second pair for future trips.

Frequently asked questions

Which sweatpants are best for a long flight?

Choose a soft, roomy pair with an elastic waist that does not press. The length should end at the ankle, so you can easily take shoes on and off.

Should I pack a change of clothes in hand luggage?

It is a good idea if the journey is long or you have a connection. A pair of sweatpants and a clean T-shirt take up little room and give peace of mind.

Can I sleep in sweatpants on the plane?

Yes, many people do, because they are soft and roomy. Choose a pair without tight seams, and bring a top or blanket for the cold.

See our range of bamboo sweatpants.