While we hate to admit it, we spend an inordinate amount of time planning or holiday outfits before going abroad – and this includes our all important airport outfit.
Gone are the days where we dress to the nines in the hope of snagging ourselves an upgrade (which, let's be honest, never happens). Now airport outfits are all about being cute and comfortable, yet there's another thing you need to consider when picking out what to wear: how practical is it for security? 'Cos no one likes getting held up at security when they could be tucking into a pre-flight meal or a cheeky cocktail.
While oversized jumpers are our go-to on flights, there is such a thing as too oversized – and you might want to rethink that claw clip too.
Here are the seven no-gos for your airport outfit if you want an easy journey.
1. Underwired bras
Bear with us. While some of us need that extra support, your underwired bra could actually be the thing that is setting off the metal detector when you go through security at an airport. Plus, a non-underwired bra such as a sports bra or a bralette is actually a heck of a lot comfier, especially if you have a long journey ahead of you.
Try: Wireless T-shirt bras or bralettes for a comfier alternative, or even a wireless sports bra if you want that little bit of extra support.
Anything to streamline that process and get to Duty-Free STAT.
2. Oversized fashion
Sure, maxi dresses and skirts, loose jackets, trousers and hoodies are comfortable, especially for long-haul flights. However, they can lead to longer checks by security, as they make it easier to hide stuff. Oversized jumpers often have to be taken before you go through a scanner, which can take up valuable time if you're in a hurry.
Try: Either stow your big jumper in your hand luggage and take it out on the plane, or wear sweaters, tops and pants with an elastic waistband or a high stretch content that are comfortable but relatively close-fitting.
3. Shoes with metal details, thick soles and laces
At most airports, security are strict about shoes – especially styles with chunky soles that could theoretically hide items, or high-top sneakers that cover the ankle. Metal details such as studs or buckles also often set off the alarm. You'd generally be asked to take these shoes off and we all know what an effort that is, especially if they're lace-ups.
Try: Simple loafers, ballerinas, espadrilles or slip-on trainers without laces as they are much faster to put on and take off. Best case scenario: you don't even have to take them off, just have the soles checked after the detector walk-through.
4. Too many hair accessories
It's best to leave elaborate hairdos for home time. A style with lots of clips or a barrette can set off the detectors at the security check and you might have to spend lots of time removing them.
Try: Keep your hair down or in a loose ponytail.
5. Clothes with lots of pockets or detailing
With plenty of pockets for your essentials, army and cargo pants are practical for travelling, but less suitable for flying – the zips and metal details might set off the alarm and it's easy to forget to remove all items from the pockets.
Try: Sweat or track pants which are comfortable, but have fewer pockets and details.
Don't fancy setting off those alarms? Pay attention to you footwear.
6. Lots of jewellery
Love statement pieces? Sorry, but you should go without them when you travel by plane. Rings, necklaces, bracelets and large earrings made of silver, gold or other metals set off the alarms at the security check and then (you guessed it) you'll have to remove them.
Tip: If you don't want to ditch your jewellery for the journey, then stick to non-metal accessories. Otherwise, simply stash your jewellery in a pouch and put it on at your destination.
7. A lot of perfume
Admittedly, this tip won't really save you any time, but could save you a literal headache. When long queues form at security during holiday season, the air can get stale. If several different fragrances are mixing, you might start feeling unwell - and the line as well as the flight can quickly become an ordeal.
Try: Pack a small sample of your favourite fragrance and then spray yourself after you land. It'll also help you feel fresher after a long flight.
This article originally appeared on GLAMOUR (ES).
