British holidaymakers are being warned that their choice of in-flight outfit could be putting their health at risk. Tight or restrictive clothing can make long periods of sitting more uncomfortable, and may even increase the risk of health problems such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
The World Health Organization warns that sitting for more than four hours during travel can raise the risk of developing DVT, a potentially dangerous condition where blood clots form in the legs. Risk factors include immobility, restricted circulation and pressure on the lower limbs – all of which can be made worse by what you wear.
With many people still travelling for holidays this August, experts have set out the clothing items they say should be avoided on flights.
According to clothing specialists at Ready Set Supplied, these include:
- Skin-tight leggings and skinny jeans – Can restrict movement and reduce blood flow to the legs.
- Tight waistbands or shapewear – Often dig into the stomach and thighs, causing discomfort over time.
- Garments with stiff seams or elastic cuffs – Can press into the skin and make it harder to move.
- Tight or rigid shoes – Feet naturally swell during flights, making inflexible footwear uncomfortable.
- Heavy synthetic fabrics – Poor ventilation and limited flexibility make them less suitable for long journeys.
The experts added: “While tight leggings, skinny jeans and fitted tops may look great in the departure lounge, they could leave you feeling stiff, swollen – and even unwell – by the time you land.”
Instead, the experts recommend wearing loose joggers, wide-leg trousers or soft linen pants to give legs more room to move.
Breathable layers such as cotton T-shirts, cardigans or hoodies can help you adapt to changing cabin temperatures.
Flexible, slip-on footwear is advised so shoes can be removed easily during the flight, and compression socks may also help support circulation on longer journeys.
A spokesperson for Ready Set Supplied said: “From WHO research, it’s clear that staying mobile and unrestricted during travel is important, so we’ve pulled together the best and worst clothing choices to help people plan better.”
“You don’t have to sacrifice style, but what you wear should let you move, stretch and stay comfortable over several hours. If it’s cutting in, riding up, or squeezing you in, it’s probably not right for flying.”
