Monday Musings- The Joys of Flying: My Travel Outfit
Happy Monday, ladies. We are off like a herd of turtles on our trip to Portugal. I always start a trip full of excitement, but the process gradually wears me down.
Airline travel is really beginning to lose its charm for me. In fact, I’m not sure it has held much for the last 20+ years. I still enjoy planning my outfit and dressing nicely to travel. But with flight delays, missed connections, long waits, and the lousy food at the airports, I end up looking like something the cat dragged in when I finally arrive at my destination. And when did airlines start blasting loud, obnoxious music throughout the cabin before takeoff and once you touch down? It’s beyond annoying to have to listen to someone else’s idea of music while you’re trying to schlep your exhausted self off the plane. Rant over…
The first plane was so cold I ended up digging this cashmere wrap out of my bag, and my husband wore his coat the entire flight to Boston. They label this a scarf, but it’s 30″x 82″, which I consider a wrap size. The new N95 masks I ordered were so claustrophobic I was glad I’d brought a few of my navy KN95 masks.
Day two of the flight marathon, I wore a whole lot of neutrals. I find them calming, and I knew I would need soothing before the trip was over. These are the Athleta Endless pants I mentioned in my private newsletter yesterday. They’re the only unwrinkled thing I’m wearing. 🤣 The knit shirt is as soft as a comfy pair of jammies, so I bought it in two colors.
A word about my carry-ons…yes, the blue one fits easily into the overhead compartment, and the beige one fits perfectly under the seat in front of me. Away makes great bags, and I’m thrilled with how well these work. They both have these Air Tags in them, so I can track them if I need to. I also discovered these new bags that actually follow you through the airport! There are quite a few brands making these, so hopefully, the price will go down soon.
They’ve just called our flight, so I’m off to cram myself into a center seat that the airline switched me to when they canceled our original flight. Fun times, ladies…but I have my knitting, so I should be fine!
Hi Jennifer!
I really enjoy reading your blog and seeing the stylish outfits you create! I purchased the J Jill ponte knit shirt that you featured in this blog in two colors after seeing it in one of your travel outfit. Several reviews on the J Jill website state that even after following the instructions to machine wash in cold water on gentle cycle and dry flat, that there was considerable shrinkage. Have you found that to be the case? Thanks in advance for your response!
It did “snug” up a bit so you could size up. Mine still fits but is not a loose as when I bought it.
Thanks for sharing. The robot bags look like so much fun. Not sure how they would work in a crowded airport like Heathrow as we run to make a flight. But imagine the looks of the other passengers. It gave me a laugh. Safe travels!
That could be funny
Jennifer, I hope by now you have reached Portugal and are having a fabulous time!
Thanks for your research and recommendation of Athleta’s Endless pant. You convinced me and I ordered a pair. It’s a great choice, especially for travel. I, too, am embarking on an overseas trip with only a carry on for 3 weeks. I swapped out one pair of jeans with the navy Endless pant and know I will be comfy and wrinkle free on those long flights. Plus they are versatile enough to be “dressed up” as needed. Thank you for doing the legwork for all of us!
I have already worn my navy pair twice! I love them. Have a fabulous trip
Looking wonderful, so put together. I agree with you about feeling like a wreck when we land no matter how I start. Air travel is exhausting. I usually wear my JJill knit pants, but will try those Athletas. Would you please tell how you manage carryon only, especially toiletries. I can’t fit it all into a Baggie! Enjoy your trip !
I decant liquids into smaller containers, if possible. Sunscreen is my largest liquid and I’ll take it over other liquids when necessary.I used a quart size freezer zip lock which will hold quite a lot.
I love the idea of comfortable clothes feeling soft and quieter tones. I haven’t thought of travel clothes setting a mood! I’m going to purchase those Athleta pants for sure! Thank you!
They were perfect to travel in and looked great after many many hours of sitting.
Hi there
I find too I’m not enjoying flying as much as before. It appears to be narrower planes – smaller seats = not as comfortable. I had a recent trip to Hawaii – yeah my husband was able to book me the emergency exit aisle seat. This I liked as I could have a walk every hour. Last year on a short flight I got a blood clot! That was a shock. Coming back I could not get an aisle seat so choose centre emergency exit. The guy on the aisle spent the whole trip watching movies on his iPad. Sorry but I did not feel bad having to interrupt him every hour so I could have a walk! Like why didn’t he take a window seat! I was a bit concerned on the flight to have one of the 3 flight attendants spread out under covers in the back row.
On a recent short flight 1 1/2 hrs – upon entering the plane one was greeting by a flight attendant drinking Starbucks coffee! What next! Then prior to take off he wanted everyone to open their air vent fully. Had never heard that before! No thanks – cold air affects my sinuses dreadfully.
I figured it was because he was hot.
I find if one dresses neatly one does get better service/positive attention from people.
Enjoy your travels. You looked sharp/smart in your travel outfit.
I’m sorry to hear about your blood clot. That’s frightening! We do need to move around as much as possible. No matter who it annoys.
We just returned from Madrid and Portugal (river cruise) and it was fabulous. Madrid was wonderful but Portugal was amazing. Clean cities and towns, friendly people, great wine and port and the bread – oh, the bread – divine. Your travel outfit is perfect. And, yes, travel is not what it used to be. However, you suck it up to experience the people, food and culture of another time. Have a wonderful time in Portugal, Jennifer!
Your cruise sounds amazing!
Have a wonderful time in Portugal. I hope you don’t have a giant man on each side of you on the plane. Because I’m small they just framed me in and said seats available to change. I haven’t flown in a decade. I always would get sick! Not worth it. We drove to visit family for years. Now they drive to visit us. You outfit looks very comfortable and stylish.
There use to be a Canadian airline called Wardair back in the 70’s. We use to fly from Toronto to Florida for a break from the winter. You would be served a full 3 course meal on china and silver plated silver ware. This would also include a glass or 2 of wine. And that also included white linen napkins. Toronto to Florida is only a 3 hour flight! Oh, those were the days.
Those were the days! I remember service like that too. In coach.
I hate flying now. It used to be fun and exciting. The food on my last two international flights was inedible. I vote yay on the Air Tags, but be warned they aren’t foolproof. The airline managed to lose my travel wheelchair on a flight from London to LAX. The Air Tag says it’s in their baggage department (still, after two months) but telling them that has fallen on deaf ears. On the bright side, they did spring for a brand new replacement, newer model even, so I have a chair again. My old, trusty chair languishes somewhere in the bowels of LAX, and no one cares. (Well, at least the Air Tag is there and active.)
Wow! No wonder baggage departments are a disaster. It was easier for them to just replace your wheelchair than go find it. Sign of the times I guess.
Happy travels.
I would love for you to post your clothing combinations and items in your suitcase and travel bag. I always try to pack light and end up bringing too much! I’m in England at the moment, but the weather has not be very cooperative. Hurricane Lee has caused many rainy, windy, and unpleasant days in the Lake District. But, Carry on and always carry an umbrella!
Thanks. Porto is a favorite city! Hope your weather is sunny and warm!
I fear I packed for colder weather than we will be having. I may have to shop! I’ll put a list together.
Have a fabulous time in Portugal. I was there about 5 years ago and absolutely loved every minute of it! And found out, while in Porto, that I love port wine! Don’t miss Nazare if you can fit it in. It was absolutely mind boggling to see the world’s largest waves in person. And make sure to have lots of the Pasteis De Nata pastries while there. Yum! Loved the food there as well. I would go back in a heartbeat but like you I would like to be Samantha on Bewitched and just twitch my nose to get there. Used to love air travel but those days are over!!
Thanks for those tips! Checking now to see if we can get up to Nazare. I know these breads and pastries will do me in 🥰
Jennifer,
Yes, yes and yes.
Kudos to you ( and the fellow readers) for your accurate assessments of airline travel these days. It is SO tiresome and something we must endure to get to our destination. It is unfortunate that the airlines in the US have gotten so pitiful.
You can ask the flight attendant to raise the temperature in the cabin. Nobody…or nearly nobody…asks them so they seldom have reason to not comply. The few times I did this, they raised it. On overnight overseas flights, I use a sleeping pill on an empty stomach to get me to sleep right at take-off time. I find that even 5 hours of solid sleep is enough to make the remaining flight time tolerable. And do use the video system when offered. I find that watching movies makes the time pass quickly. For domestic travel always ask about the first class fare. There are a surprising number of flights where it is only modestly higher than coach. Domestic first class is no longer a luxury experience but it is better. This week I flew LAX to SFO one way for $138 first class.
WOW! You got an amazing price. I do watch the movies to help pass the time. That and my knitting helps to keep me entertained.
Many of my siblings fly. I have not flown for over 20 yrs. The reason being due to a health issue. I have gone places just have traveled by other means. I know that flying used to be one where you thought of it as special. But from what my husband and siblings have stated –it is more like you are packed in. One brother lives in Europe so coming back to the US is always and adventure. This is the same thing that another sibling who lives in Australia states.
I count myself lucky because I have to rely on myself–usually driving–to get where I want to go. Ok when I did go to Europe I took a boat–as I was on a trip with my father then and that was how he wanted to travel. This was 18 yrs ago. My husband flew over and had to take three flights to get to meet up with us. What an introduction for him to Europe.
Have a wonderful trip! Love Sue Grafton, she’ll help u get thru center seat 🙁 Yr neutral travel outfit looks comfortable & classy (but I’ll stick w/black & navy, always seem to spill something on the way); no problem having the waist bag *and* carry-on + pers’l bag? I like that!
I love black with navy too. I packed a lot of it.
Hope you have/or have had a great flight to Portugal. I’m a little late! Love your all neutral outfit. Can’t go wrong with neutrals. Also, love your wrap. It can definetly be a hassel getting somewhere. Sometimes I wish I could just wiggle my nose!! Have a Great Time!
I’ve often thought about how easy it would be to just wiggle my nose, like in Bewitched, and be there.
It will all be worth it!
Portugal will make you so happy you made the effort!
So glad that you make us all realize how important it is to look “put together “ when you travel. I think you are treated better when you show you care. Looking forward to your posts from Portugal 🇵🇹
I like to think we are treated better when when we take the time to dress nicely. I know that I feel better and hope the airline staff feel appreciated for all their hard work.
Great travel outfit! We’re leaving next week for Rome and then our 11 night cruise. Traveling from Denver to JFK to Rome is gonna be a long day but I’ve done my research on how to survive long flights, so I’m hoping for smooth travels. Can’t wait to see your Portugal posts!
Have a fabulous trip!!
I had to laugh at this as I am a flight attendant. It is tough traveling these days- full flights, delays, weather, etc. As airline staff, we know it’s rough! And then the boarding music!! I always turn it on as lowest as it will go. Hope the trip to Portugal is worth it!!
Thanks Kathy. I appreciate you! That music is bizarre 🤣
Enjoy your trip! I am looking for new luggage for an April trip to Europe, and have been looking at the Away bags. Would be very interested in knowing more about what you think, and if the standard size carry-on bag that you are showing was compatible with European airline requirements.
I have the big carryon and love it! I also own the smaller Monos which would be better for European airlines regulations. They both roll like a dream. Luggage has come a long way since I bought my dinosaur Hartmanns
I always preboard flights, and I’m never questioned. If possible fly business class it’s a life changer, worth the miles or$ for a long flight. United also has a middle class with roomier seats that are like a recliner. My flights were cold too. I always wear the Juliette coatigan and have a pashmina in my tote.
I love that Juliet coatigan! Perfect for travel. I agree business class makes a big difference. Coach is tough.
How clever of you to realize wearing neutrals would have a calming effect on you for your second travel day. I’m tucking away that thought to use in challenging circumstances. I think our discomfort in traveling increases with aging – a real challenge to stay positive in spite of noise, discomfort and the inevitable surprise changes thrown our way. Airports are great places for people watching, though, aren’t they? I always appreciate seeing people who dress well for travel. Enjoy Portugal
I agree Ruth. It’s much harder than when we were younger.
My husband and I have been flying often (for pleasure trips) for the past 25+ years. We both agree that it has become an unpleasant and stressful experience rather than the exciting route to an adventure it used to be. My husband says the flying experience has now become what he imagined a greyhound bus trip to be like!
Lol, your husband is hilarious. Things have sure changed.
If ever again I travel by plane with checked luggage, I will take old clothing in an old suitcase. It’s a pain to shop for new clothing upon arrival, and there’s no guarantee that I would find my size, but an extra outfit, underwear, socks and sleepwear will be in my carry-on. I will allow an extra day at a major centre upon arrival. Strange times!
My hand held always holds a change of clothes, (2 tops, one bottom) medicines and toiletries. I could survive a long time on that.
I’m sure you’ll have a fabulous, relaxing time once you reach your destination. Enjoy!
Your travel outfit is perfect and I love the scarf/wrap.
I just finished reading “X” and now I’m selecting re-reading my favourites from her series. Too bad she passed away before she wrote “Z”.
Her writing is great!! So excited.
We read all the Aphabet series audiobooks on long car trips a few years back. Whenever Kinsey was in a dangerous spot we always said, “if only she had her mobile phone!”
I do so dread flights. Just keep your eye on the prize! Portugal! Wow! Hope to make it there someday. And you look marvelous! Enjoy!
Thank you Susan.
Just have to say, I was lucky enough to go on a 10-day trip to England with my daughter this summer. There were no problems on the 11-hour nonstop flights out of San Francisco and home from Heathrow on United. For the first time in my life, I splurged on premium economy and it was worth every penny. I was able to sleep using the sleep mask recommended by Jennifer. I used my face mask on the flights, but did come home with COVID caught while in England, so continue to take the same care when you travel as when at home.
I’m so sorry you got COVID! It seems to be everywhere again.
I’m with you, Jennifer. There is absolutely nothing fun or exciting about air travel these days. I love to be in a different place but hate the getting to and from. It almost, almost makes me want to just stay home. When you arrive in Portugal, check into your hotel, freshen up and start exploring, you’ll get your second wind and feel wonderful.
We are excited!!
Safe travels Jennifer!
Portugal is on our bucket list. You always look so nice, thanks for your inspiration.
Godspeed!
Thank you Mary Ann
Ditto for looking neat whilst traveling. Question will be in Brittany, Normandy & Paris in late May early June next yr. Planning on navy & black pants with Blue (various hues) Black and white tops. Sound good? Suggestions
Yes! I brought lots of navy and black. I love the low contrast of them together.
When my husband and I travel we try to book a trans-Atlantic cruise on a Cunard ship, rather than flying. Then when we get to our destination we have acclimated to the time and are not tired out from a long cramped flight. Instead we have enjoyed our time traveling. Of course you still have to get on a short flight to a European destination.
Your travel wear choices are really good looking. Also your hair looks very nice. I know you’ve been struggling with it. I have my eye on a pair of the pants. Are you wearing a regular size or petite?
Keep your eyes on the prize of a fantastic stay in Portugal. You’ll have a great time!
We have friends who do that too. It sounds so smart! Thanks for reminding me. We well have to try it. I’m wearing the regular length.
I’m with you on flying, Soo over it! I’ll go just about anywhere if we can drive. I like to plan a nice outfit to fly in but I usually see people in our airports with sweats and pajamas on. I think maybe everything is getting too casual nowadays. Enjoy your trip and safe travels.
I did see some pajamas too! I’m just always surprised.
I have found the most wonderful masks! Happy masks is the name of the company. They have the same protection as the KN 95, but are comfortable, cute, and hand washable so you can use them over and over. Their customer service is outstanding and I can’t say enough good things about this company and their product! Nancy.
I’m going to check them out! Thanks Nancy
Jennifer,
Like you, I always try to look nice while being comfortable when on a long flight. Lately, I see people boarding the plane who look like they just got out of bed. Good to see you wearing a mask, we came home from Europe with Covid.
We’re seeing more people wearing masks than last time we flew
I think flying affected all of us after 9/11, never been the same. We have to fly to UK if we want to see our only granddaughter and daughter. The flight is a straight flight of about 10 hours from Dallas. We used to go to Atlanta first then on to UK, but that always went bad .
I can’t sleep on planes so I am a zombie when I arrive there. I get up constantly on the plane, because my sciatica from the seats gets pretty uncomfortable.
I hope you have a restful, happy, safe time there in Portugal.
I can’t sleep on planes either
Oh boy do I hate the center seat! We do anything to avoid them, usually booking two aisle seats so we sit across an aisle from each other for shorter trips. Longer trips I wouldn’t do that. It’s awful when they cancel and rebook a seat like that. We just took two flights, ending in Boston. Altogether, the day was get up at 3:30 AM, fly, connect, fly, rent car, drive to destination. We were exhausted after that 13 hour day. Getting older does not make it easier!
This was a grueling day. It’s absolutely harder because we’re older
Enjoy your trip! I agree about flying. It used to be fun and exciting, and now it’s a necessary evil to be endured to get to your destination.
Wishing you a better second leg, Jennifer! You’ll soon be at your destination.
Thanks Paulette
Happy times ahead in Portugal. We just returned from two wonderful weeks in Newfoundland. Yes, I’ve seen Come From Away twice. Despite knowing I wasoing since Christmas, I decided to go ake my hubby’s advice and take between 7 to 10 outfits to nstead of whatI had wanted to take. Just one dress then, a lit of comfy pants and about three pair of pajamas. That turned out alright as I was able to wash a few pair of underwear and a couple of pants when we were at a three day stay.I had asimple carryon sports bag the neighbour had given us and ut was adequate and I had bought a huge purse in the spring as it carrried my oills and a book and lipsticks etc. One regret I had if I hadthe chance to do overwas to purchasea carry-on with wheels as hefting both bags took a lot from this old gal hlHave fun in Portugal. It is on our bucket list too!
Wheels are mandatory for me! Good for you!
Oh boy… I get you. It’s getting where I don’t wish to do long flights anymore. The whole experience is draining. I’m over it. Having said that I look forward to your posts about this trip. Happy trails.
I feel the same way about flying and we only go on 3 hour flights! Just a three hour flight turns into an all day ordeal! We fly from Florida to Boston. The problem with renting a car in Boston and driving north (about 25 miles on highway) is it takes as long as 3 hours to get to our hotel as it does to just fly there! Big Sigh! we have decided to fly first class from now on. I am tired of being stuck in the middle seat cause hubby likes the window! Have a great trip!
I think you’re wise. We don’t fly often so may resort to that from now on.
Jennifer, sending prayers for safe travel and patience. I ❤️ your small waist bag. So many choices of color and use! Enjoy Portugal!
Thanks
Your neutral outfit looks very classy and it sounds like everything you have on is very comfortable. Hope you have a wonderful time once all that travel is behind you!
Travel is a luxury so the ranting?
I’m certainly fortunate to be able to travel and thankful for that but it’s often a stressful, exhausting, and disappointing luxury.
I don’t blame Jennifer for her little ‘rant’ (although I hesitate to cal it that). Airline travel these days can be a right slog; over crowded planes full of poorly dressed, badly behaved passengers. Slop, passing as food served in cardboard boxes, surly flight attendants, lost luggage, delayed flights. Luxury is a business (or even better, a first class suite with Emirates or Singapore airlines) class seat with its lay flat bed, french champagne, decent food (which can be ordered ahead of time), helpful flight attendants – generally a much nicer experience. Good on Jennifer for her honest assessment of airline travel circa 2023
You nailed it perfectly! The “dinner” was in a box, mysterious looking and as it turns out, not edible. Thank goodness for protein bars. I remember meals with cloth napkins!
Oh, I so hate flying these days! Enjoy your trip once you get there, Jennifer. Looking forward to seeing all your vacation outfits.
Two days? What happened?
It’s definitely more difficult traveling… too bad.
I wear layers to stay warm, I take a packable down jacket, that works for me.
Hopefully your vacation in Portugal is fantastic!
Apparently a pilot called in sick and it threw off their schedule. And everyone else on those flights.
We just did the same thing only Italy. Just can’t express how much I hate the overseas travel experience…just the to and from part. I wish I could just drug myself up and be carried on and off the stupid plane! But…once you’re there and after a nice shower….the fun is ON! Enjoy Portugal….one of my favorite places we’ve been! The people are so kind and dignified, the coastline is unmatched and, if you like wine….you’re in heaven!
lol, me too
Oh, do I feel your pain. As a former airline employee who used to be so excited to take the next trip, what has happened to our industry? Deregulation was the beginning of the end of any kind of comfort starting in 1978, it devolved from there. I just grin, bear it, and know that once I get to my destination, I will love it!
@Denise: I too once worked for the Airline Industry (Canadian Pacific) and regardless the carrier or itinerary; Customer Service was a priority which IMO the same cannot be said today.
@Jennifer: Wishing you and your hubby a wonderful ‘n safe holiday and that your return trip will go more smoothly. -Brenda-