What Do You Wear on the Plane to Your Winter Getaway?

Kathryn Walsh, Leaf Group

A winter getaway can be as relaxing and decadent as a trip to a tropical locale. You'll trade bathing suits for cozy flannel pajamas and cocktails for hot drinks in front of a fire. Figuring out what to wear in a cold place is tricky, especially if you live in a warm climate, and getting all the bulky gear you'll need onto a plane is a hassle. Wearing the right clothes on the plane saves room in your luggage and ensures you'll be comfortable during the trip and warm when you arrive in your chilly destination.

Step 1

Wear comfortable underwear, preferably without seams. You might not think about it when getting dressed, but underwear that is too tight or needs constant adjustment will be unpleasant when you're in a tight plane seat, and hard to get to under layers of winter clothes.

Step 2

Choose a pair of cotton or wool pants. Avoid denim unless you have a pair of jeans that are fairly loose. Don't wear a belt unless you need it to keep your pants up, because it will dig into your skin during the trip.

Step 3

Layer two or three shirts. Wear a thin, long-sleeved T-shirt closest to your skin. Choose a second T-shirt or button-up shirt or blouse to wear over the T-shirt. Pull on a vest, hooded sweatshirt or sweater on top if you tend to be cold on the plane. Pick a top layer that zips or buttons up so you won't have to maneuver a pullover sweater or sweatshirt on the plane.

Step 4

Pull on a pair of socks made from synthetic fibers like polyester or wool. Avoid cotton socks, which absorb sweat and will get wet quickly if your destination is snowy or rainy. Stick a second pair of socks in your carry-on bag, so you can layer them on if your feet get cold. Wear your snow boots onto the plane to save space in your luggage. Take them off when you get to your seat and place them in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. If you don't want to remove your shoes, wear low, waterproof hiking boots onto the plane and pack your boots in your suitcase.

Step 5

Wear your winter coat, or carry it with you onto the plane. Stuff gloves, a scarf and a hat into the pockets of the coat so you'll be able to grab them quickly when you land. Lay the coat over the top of the baggage in the overhead compartment. You may also want to wrap the scarf around your neck during the flight if you tend to be chilly.