Before you reach for your leggings or skinny jeans for your next flight, you might want to reconsider. Tight clothing could cause health problems and affect your safety, especially on long flights. Health professionals are warning travelers about the risks of wearing such clothes, and it’s something you’ll want to consider before packing your suitcase.
With summer in full swing and travel plans underway, many people opt for form-fitting outfits, like leggings or tight jeans. They seem like the perfect option for comfort on a plane, right? Unfortunately, wearing tight clothing for hours can have negative effects on your body.
When your clothes are too tight, they can interfere with your circulation. Dr. Pabarue, a leading expert, notes that garments that fit snugly can restrict blood flow in your legs. This limitation can lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a dangerous condition where blood clots form in your veins. If a clot travels to your lungs, it could result in a pulmonary embolism, which is potentially life-threatening.
Additionally, tight clothing can cause discomfort like nerve compression or numbness, particularly around the waist, thighs, and ankles. These risks are even more significant during long flights, where you may be seated for hours at a time.
Understanding why the material of your clothing can impact your safety in an emergency on a plane
It’s not just tight clothing that can cause problems—what your clothes are made of also matters. Many travel-friendly outfits, such as leggings and sportswear, are made from synthetic fabrics. These materials may feel comfortable, but in the event of an emergency, they pose a serious risk.
If there were ever a fire on board, synthetic fabrics could melt and stick to your skin, causing severe burns. Although plane crashes are rare, emergency landings do occur, and it’s essential that your clothing doesn’t hinder your ability to evacuate quickly.
What should you wear instead for a safe and comfortable flight? Tips for choosing the right travel attire
So, what should you wear for a comfortable and safe flight? Experts suggest choosing clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton, which are breathable and less likely to restrict circulation. For pants, go for something loose and comfortable instead of tight jeans or leggings.
If you have concerns about circulation, consider wearing medical-grade compression socks or leggings. These can help improve blood flow while keeping you comfy on long flights.
| Recommended Travel Clothing | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Loose-fitting pants | Promotes better circulation |
| Cotton fabrics | Breathable and comfortable |
| Compression socks | Supports blood flow and reduces DVT risk |
Final thoughts on why you should reconsider tight clothing for your next flight to ensure your safety and comfort
Ultimately, what you wear on your flight can make a big difference in your health. Tight clothing may feel comfortable at first, but the risks it poses—especially on long flights—are real. By choosing looser clothing made from breathable, natural fabrics, you’ll improve circulation, reduce the risk of DVT, and even protect yourself in an emergency.
As Christine Negroni, aviation safety expert, puts it: this isn’t about scaring you—it’s about making smarter choices to keep yourself safe. Something as simple as what you wear could make all the difference on your next flight.