Even for the most seasoned of fliers, the perfect airport outfit remains one of the trickiest style formulas to master. It needs to withstand early alarms, long security lines, fluctuating cabin temperatures, and the inevitable sprint to the gate — all while looking polished without sacrificing comfort. Whether the goal is channeling the effortless cool of a ’90s off-duty supermodel, embracing a more elevated travel uniform, or simply slipping into the coziest loungewear, the formula always comes down to one key piece: the right pair of travel pants.
Of course, not all travel pants are created equal. The best styles strike that elusive balance between comfort and polish, delivering the ease of loungewear without looking like it. They resist wrinkles, adapt to changing climates, and transition seamlessly throughout the journey. For fashion insiders who double as frequent fliers, a reliable pair is nonnegotiable. Ahead, industry professionals — from fashion directors and editors to founders and public relations executives — share the travel pants they reach for again and again when comfort and style are equally essential.
Lauren Chan, Model and Writer
“My favorite pants to travel in are the Spanx Air Essentials wide-leg pants,” Chan said. “I wear them in black with the matching Air Essentials half zip and together they are undoubtedly the most comfortable sweat-set I own. And I’m not alone on that! I’ve bonded over this set with everyone from fellow models to my best friend’s mom (hi, Shelley!). Why are they so beloved? The mid-weight material is suuuper soft to the touch; because they’re a bit fleece-y, they keep you warm in airplane AC; and, as a set, they are thin enough to layer under jackets easily. On the inclusivity front, they come in sizes XXS-3X and have petite, regular, and tall lengths. They also come in 13 colorways.”
