Underwear for a delayed day at the airport

Short answer: When your flight is delayed, a short trip quickly turns into a long day in the same clothes. Choose underwear that is soft, does not squeeze and can be worn for many hours without you thinking about it. Here is what makes the difference when the wait drags on.

Why underwear matters most while you wait

A delay can turn a five hour journey into a fifteen hour day. Anything that sits close to the skin is felt more when you sit, walk around and wait. You soon forget a soft, seamless piece, while a hard edge or a tight elastic can bother you for hours.

Pack for the worst case

Put one extra set of underwear in your hand luggage, even if you are only away for a single night. If the suitcase goes missing, or the wait turns into an overnight stay, it is nice to be able to change. Roll the items up so they take little room, and keep them on top.

A bra you can wear all day

For long days on the move, a soft bra without underwire and hard seams is often the most comfortable. You can see a selection among the bamboo bra styles. Choose a size that sits steadily without pressing around the ribs, because you may need to sit in a chair at the gate for many hours.

Layers that follow the airport temperature

Airports shift between cold at the gate and warm in the queue for security. Wear thin layers that are easy to take off and put on, and let your underwear be the softest layer next to the skin. A base layer that does not feel clammy makes it easier to stay comfortable.

A slip under a dress or trousers

If you are wearing a dress or a skirt, a slip can make sitting more comfortable. It does not ride up as easily and gives a smooth layer against the skin. You will find different styles among the bamboo slips, which can be worn under clothes or as nightwear if you have to stay overnight.

Wash in the sink if it becomes necessary

If the wait turns into a night, you can rinse your underwear in the sink with a little soap and let it dry overnight. Choose a thin piece, so it dries faster. Press it in a towel before you hang it up, so the moisture disappears more quickly.

Small routines that help the day pass

Walk a lap of the terminal every hour and stretch your legs, to keep the blood flowing. Drink water, and change into a fresh top if you have one with you. Small breaks and a little air around the body make the delay feel shorter, however long it lasts.

When you finally arrive

When you finally land, change into clean clothes as soon as you can and hang the worn items to air, instead of stuffing them into the suitcase. Wash your underwear following the care label when you are home. Also take a look at the bestsellers from Copenhagen Bamboo if you want ideas for your next trip.

Frequently asked questions

How many sets of underwear should I keep in my hand luggage?

One extra set is a good starting point on short trips. If there is a risk of a long delay or an overnight stay, two sets are safer, and they take little room if you roll them up.

What is best to wear during a long flight?

Choose clothes that are soft and do not constrict, so you can sit for many hours without feeling seams or elastic. Thin layers make it easy to adjust when the temperature changes along the way.

Can I wash underwear in a hotel room or a sink?

Yes, rinse it with a little mild soap, press it in a towel and hang it up to dry. Thin pieces often dry overnight, but always check the care label first.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.