Summer travel outfits are one of the topics I’m asked about most often, and I see a few common requests come up again and again. Readers want outfits that are comfortable enough for long flights but still look put together when they arrive at their destination.
Two of the biggest requests I hear are to skip wide-leg pants (airport bathroom floors are reason enough!) and shorts. Instead, I focused on outfits that are comfortable to sit in for hours while being practical for changing temperatures.
Airports and airplanes can be chilly (also sometimes hot, they like to keep us on our toes), while your destination may be hot and humid, so layering is the key. Each of these outfits includes a lightweight layer that you can easily take on and off throughout your trip to stay comfortable wherever you’re headed.
These are all outfits I would wear—and have worn—for summer travel, whether I’m catching a flight, heading out on a road trip, or starting a day of sightseeing as soon as I arrive.
1. Soft Dress + Denim Shirt
If comfort is your top priority, it’s hard to beat a soft knit dress.
This Haven Well Within dress is one of the most comfortable dresses I own. It’s made from a soft knit fabric that feels almost like wearing your favorite heavy t-shirt, but it still looks polished enough to wear through the airport. I recently wore it on a six-hour flight and was comfortable the entire trip while still feeling put together when I landed. I brought along a cashmere wrap in my carry-on bag to wear over my legs on the plane, and it was perfect!
The dress has a relaxed fit and isn’t especially shaped, so layering a denim shirt over it helps add a little structure.
I paired this outfit with sandals since most travelers no longer need to remove their shoes at security. If I’m expecting a lot of walking after I land, or want to wear socks, I’d swap them for sneakers instead.
Why it works for travel:
- Soft, comfortable knit fabric
- Lightweight layering piece for chilly planes
- Comfortable enough for long flights
Dress XXS | Denim Shirt XS | Sandals tts | Bag | Suitcase
2. Comfortable Jeans + Sweatshirt
Despite what social media might tell you, I don’t mind traveling in jeans—as long as they’re comfortable.
A pair of comfortable jeans that fit well is something I can easily wear for several hours without feeling restricted. They’re also versatile enough to continue wearing once I arrive, so I don’t have to pack an extra outfit just for travel.
For layering, I chose a lightweight sweatshirt. Instead of simply draping it over my shoulders, I tied it over one shoulder. It stays in place much better while walking through the airport and adds a little interest to the outfit.
When the plane gets cold, it’s ready to throw on, and when I’m back in the heat, it comes right off.
Why it works for travel:
- Comfortable enough to sit in for hours
- Sweatshirt doubles as an easy layer
- Practical for changing temperatures
- Casual but put together
Jeans 24 in spring storm (26.5″ inseam in standard) | Top XXS | Sweatshirt similar | Sneakers | Suitcase
3. Lightweight Joggers + Denim Shirt
For travelers who prefer athletic wear, lightweight joggers are one of my favorite options.
I intentionally skipped wide-leg active pants because many people told me they prefer not to wear them while traveling. Joggers keep the hems off the ground while still feeling comfortable for long flights and busy travel days.
These Athleta joggers are one of my favorite petite-friendly pairs. I’m wearing the Petite XXS, and the 25.5-inch inseam fits my 4’10” frame perfectly without bunching.
I layered a lightweight denim shirt over a simple top, giving me another easy layer if the airport or airplane gets chilly. I like to wear a hat on my trip home, where I’m not worried about hat hair after the fact.
Why it works for travel:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Petite-friendly 25.5-inch inseam
- No dragging hems
- Comfortable for flights, road trips, and sightseeing
Pants Petite XXS 25.5″ inseam in petite | Top XXS | Denim Shirt XS | Hat | Sneakers | Suitcase
Final Thoughts
Comfort doesn’t have to come at the expense of style when you’re traveling. With a few lightweight layers and pieces that are comfortable enough to wear for hours, it’s easy to create outfits that work from the airport to your destination.
