Brand Stories
What to Wear on a Long Flight: 23 Clothing Brands That Put Comfort First
Let’s face it: When you’re about to embark on a six-plus-hour intercontinental flight and your body is buzzing with anxiety at the thought of potential delays, missed connections, and lost luggage, piecing together a stylish outfit is probably the least of your concerns. Factor in the near-impossible feat of sleeping upright on a plane and tolerating snoring seat mates, and it feels necessary to prioritize comfort on long-haul flights.
While matching sweatsuits are one (beloved) way to go, there are plenty of options in the way of loungewear these days. Pieces made of finely woven knits that feel as soft as a cloud, compression fabrics that prevent swelling, and buttery cashmere travel blankets that you can cocoon yourself in are among the ones we recommend for overnight or otherwise lengthy flights. Below, find 23 brands whose clothes and accessories will make deciding what to wear on a long flight as easy and comfortable as possible, broken down by categories:
Performance wear and athleisure
With activewear for your next yoga retreat, outerwear to brave the cold weather, and sweats to lounge in around the Airbnb, Alo Yoga offers everything you need to feel comfy and cozy while traveling. The popular brand designs its performance wear with movement in mind, so expect to find smooth, silky, breathable pieces that you’ll be comfortable in all day long.
Lululemon is a perennial favorite for basic black leggings, snag-one-when-you-can belt bags, and comfortable joggers. The rest of its athleisure is also worth the hype: These breathable half-zip sweatshirts and jackets can take you from the plane to the hotel gym effortlessly.
Huckberry serves up menswear basics made for the active traveler, including soft yoga joggers and water-resistant workwear-inspired pants that will take you from the plane to a bike ride or beachside stretch session with ease. The brand’s bestsellers section is full of pieces you can wear in the air and repeat on vacation, like the 72-Hour Merino T-shirt and The 365 Pant. You can find travel and outdoor gear from brands like Patagonia, Barbour, Marine Layer, and Saturdays NYC on Huckberry’s site, too.
You may have heard the Vuori pitch before (the brand is an active podcast sponsor for many popular shows like Smartless and Crime Junkie): It offers premium performance apparel inspired by the active coastal California lifestyle, and wants to offer a new perspective on the athleisure category as a whole. I admit, the clothing is some of the softest I’ve ever worn, which certainly sets itself apart from more traditional activewear brands like Nike or Adidas. Try Vuori’s joggers, shorts, and super-soft tees for an outfit that feels like pajamas, but looks respectable enough for the airport lounge.
When warm weather is in the forecast, the exercise dress comes back out. Often designed with shorts underneath and a built-in bra, the practical, sweat-wicking one-pieces are a great multi-purpose vacation outfit: Wear one on the plane with a jean jacket layered on top, then break it out again for a pickleball game or afternoon walking around to see the sights. Outdoor Voices makes a comfortable one with adjustable straps and a built-in shorts liner. If a dress doesn’t sound appealing, opt for the Zephyr pant—it’s made of a lightweight performance fabric that will serve you well in warm destinations.
Loungewear sets
Barefoot Dreams is a Traveler favorite for cozy robes and slippers. The brand’s loungewear doesn’t disappoint, acting as a socially acceptable version of pajamas. While we’ve raved about the CozyChic collection that’s made with the brand’s signature cotton blend, the Malibu collection offers more lightweight and breathable staples that can easily be layered with your choice of tank tops, knitwear, sweatpants, and more.
If the only thing that comes to mind when you hear the name Spanx is shapewear, you’re missing out. The brand has extended its offerings over the years to include everything from work dresses to jeans and blazers. But for long-haul flights, we’re partial to the AirEssentials collection, which has a super-soft, drapey, scuba-like fabric. Shop the Travel edit for even more style options, including shorts and jumpsuits.
If it’s good enough for Oprah, it’s got our vote. Cozy Earth’s bamboo joggers received the media mogul’s official seal of approval in 2020, by way of her Favorite Things list, and after trying them on ourselves, we understand why. The mix of premium viscose from bamboo, acrylic, and Spandex produces a super smooth, cool-to-the-touch fabric that’ll make you feel like you’re wrapped in your favorite set of sheets. The brand’s Stretch-Knit Bamboo Lounge tee and Ultra-Soft Bamboo hoodie are among other bestsellers.
Wearing a bunch of layers can be uncomfortable while traveling. Sleepwear brand Lunya has an all-in-one fix with its Silksweat sets crafted from a breathable Pima cotton-blend and washable silk fabric that promises to help regulate your body’s temperature no matter the weather. Made with style and comfort in mind, the monochromatic fit will make you look put together whether you’re traveling by plane or train.
Launched in 2022, Friend + Folk is a woman-owned, gender- and size-inclusive line made in downtown Los Angeles at Bomme Studio, a CFDA-approved, ethical and sustainable production house. The pieces are produced in small batches to reduce waste, and are supremely comfortable—the Joon joggers are a personal favorite of mine, but for a more classic sweatpant, try the Harbor style. Other in-flight staples include the long-sleeve Witter T-shirt and Crosby classic hoodie.
Cashmere and wool basics
Eileen Fisher has been making timeless pieces since 1984 and has been committed to reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry. While on the pricier side, the Italian cashmere staples are made from the finest fibers. The pieces can stand the test of time and will grow even softer and more luxurious after every wear.
Spun from the finest goat hair, Naadam’s 100 percent Mongolian cashmere basics are so ridiculously soft, it feels like a luxurious blanket that you can wear out in public—and on transcontinental flights. The built-in perks of cashmere include high breathability, and anti-wrinkle and odor-blocking benefits. The brand’s tailored sweaters and hoodies will keep you comfy without looking unkempt.
Former Traveler editor Noah Kaufman calls Ibex’s clothing “some of the nicest, most comfortable stuff I’ve ever put on.” Made of Ibex’s signature Merino wool fabric, the clothes are built to curb odor, and the fabric is naturally thermoregulating—meaning you can wear pieces year-round—and smooth against skin (no itchiness here). He’s been wearing a pair of ultra-soft joggers around the house, and says they’ll make a great addition to any long-haul flight uniform.
Elevated basics
J.Crew’s attainable price point makes it the one-stop-shop for elevated wardrobe staples. The brand’s focus on offering well-made, timeless pieces makes it a go-to for young professionals. With a wide range of button-down shirts, chinos, sweaters, and blazers, there’s something chic and polished for every traveler.
Athleta has plenty of great leggings, workout wear, and athleisure, but if you’re looking for something a little more versatile to wear throughout your trip, check out the Brooklyn mid-rise ankle pant. Made with a stretchy, wrinkle-resistant material, these pants are comfortable enough to wear on a plane, but have a tailored fit that can be dressed up or down. They’re also super lightweight, in case you decide to pack them on the way back home.
If there’s a brand that can get us to wear “real clothes” on a plane, it’s Universal Standard. With clothes from size 00 to 40, its mission is to create clothing that looks and feels good on every body, using fabrics like premium Peruvian cotton, soft Italian Merino wool, and French satin-back crepe to do so. The Promenade linen jumpsuit could easily be worn all day long, and the Sally Liquid Jersey shirt dress is a piece you’ll wear again and again. As for the jeans, before you shake your head, know that the brand’s styles are stretchy, with a truly relaxed, comfortable fit—look to the ComfortDenim collection for the most plane-friendly pieces. If jeans are a no-go (fair), try the Go-Stretch pant for a looser waistband.
With its penchant for solid colors (and the occasional stripe) and classic silhouettes, Everlane makes tons of mix-and-match travel essentials. The Cashmere Stroopwafel turtleneck and Dream Pant are some of our readers’ favorites, and our editors are fans of the Relaxed Oxford shirt and Utility Barrell pant—all of which are versatile must-haves for any packing list.
Free People is known for its breezy, bohemian-style clothes, so of course they’d make the kind of pants, coats, and utility suits that are comfortable enough to wear on a plane. The Studio to Street collection and FP Movement collections are filled with layering pieces and roomy pants you can throw on after a workout, though like leggings or yoga pants, they serve many purposes. For overnight flights, we like the Hailee Cardi set. If you’re in need of a versatile jacket you can wear on cold planes and chilly fall evenings alike, the loose-fitting Dolman Quilted Knit remains popular and comes in tons of different colorways.
Plane to office clothing
Abercrombie & Fitch has been able to do a rare thing in the fashion industry—mature with its audience. The A&F team has been dipping its toes into workwear and is offering pieces that fit the brand’s polished aesthetic with a more laidback flare. For your next work trip, think about pairing a classic blazer with a pair of the ’90s Low Rise Relaxed jeans or the viral Sloane tailored pant.
If you’re not the type to wear loungewear on a plane, no matter the flight time, you’ve still got options that prioritize comfort. Banana Republic’s linen resort pieces fit the mold, with breathable basics that can take you from the airport to the office, or to the resort pool, depending on how you style them.
Versatile and multidimensional, Aday ensures that every single one of its items has more than one feature—the result of working with engineers to source technologically advanced fabrics that can wick moisture, regulate heat, defy wrinkles, resist ultra-violet rays, and so much more. Simply put, Aday’s pieces are exactly what you want to wear on a long flight.
The maker of many a wardrobe staple, including some of our favorite basic tees, California-based brand Buck Mason offers plenty of thermal tees, sweaters, and button-ups that make great layering pieces on chilly flights. For a classic but slightly elevated sweats look, Traveler‘s commerce editor Meaghan Kenny loves traveling in the brand’s cozy sweatpant and crew neck.
Embody the laid-back, California-cool aesthetic with pieces from Jenni Kayne. The brand’s designs are made to last, and often come in soothing neutral tones. You can find comfortable but structured essentials like its popular cardigans, as well as cozy accessories like cashmere socks and oversized blanket shawls.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Andrea Cheng.
Better benchmarks can unlock the social benefits of AI technology.
The rhythm of artificial intelligence (AI) development has become unsettlingly familiar. A new model is unveiled, and with it comes a predictable flurry of media attention. One cluster of articles dissects its intricate training data and architecture; another marvels, often breathlessly, at its newfound capabilities; and a third, almost inevitably, scrutinizes its performance on a battery of standardized tests. These benchmarks have become our primary yardsticks for AI progress. Yet, they predominantly paint a picture skewed toward raw technical prowess and potential peril, leaving the public with a pervasive feeling that each impressive step forward for AI might translate into two regrettable steps back for the rest of us.
Many of these evaluations concentrate on the technical capacity of the model or its computational horsepower. Others, with growing urgency, assess the likelihood of misuse—could this advanced AI empower rogue actors to design a bioweapon or destabilize critical infrastructure through sophisticated cyberattacks? A significant portion of evaluations also measures AI against human performance in specific job tasks, fueling widespread anxieties about automation and diminished human agency. The reporting on these tests, frequently framed by alarming headlines, understandably casts AI advancements more as a societal regression than a leap forward. The very branding of prominent benchmarks, such as the ominously titled Humanity’s Last Exam, amplifies these negative connotations. That benchmark and others like it tend to measure a model’s capacity to complete bespoke tests, aid bad actors engaging in harmful conduct, or some combination of the two. It is difficult, if not impossible, to read coverage of such an assessment and come away with a hopeful, or even neutral, view of AI’s trajectory.
This is not to argue that assessing risks or understanding the deep mechanics of AI is unimportant. Vigilance and technical scrutiny are crucial components of responsible development. The current benchmarking landscape, however, is dangerously imbalanced. Those of us who recognize AI’s immense transformative potential to address some of the world’s most intractable problems—including revolutionizing medical diagnostics, accelerating climate solutions, and personalizing education for every child—currently lack a prominent, public-facing benchmark designed to track, celebrate, and encourage these positive developments.
It is time we introduce “Humanity’s Best Exam”—a benchmark that strives to capture a model’s capacity to address public policy problems and otherwise serve the general welfare.
Imagine a new form of evaluation that challenges AI systems not with abstract logic puzzles but with tangible goals vital to human flourishing. Consider a benchmark that tasks AI models with identifying early-stage diabetic retinopathy from retinal scans with over 95 percent accuracy, a leap that could surpass current screening efficacy and save millions from preventable blindness. Picture a test that spurs the design of three novel antibiotic compounds that are effective against stubborn, drug-resistant bacteria within a single year. In the realm of climate science, Humanity’s Best Exam might push AI to develop a groundbreaking, cost-effective catalyst for the direct air capture of carbon dioxide, improving efficiency by a significant margin—say, 20 percent—over existing technologies. Or it could encourage the creation of predictive models for localized flash floods that offer vulnerable regions a critical six-hour lead time with 90 percent accuracy. Or, in education, the challenge could be to generate personalized six-month learning plans for diverse student profiles in foundational STEM subjects, demonstrably elevating learning outcomes by an average of two grade levels.
The creation and widespread adoption of Humanity’s Best Exam would serve several critical, society-shaping purposes.
First, it would powerfully harness the intense competitive spirit of AI laboratories for the global good. AI developers are profoundly motivated by benchmark performance—the race to the top of the leaderboards is fierce. Channeling this potent drive toward solving clearly defined societal problems could positively redirect research priorities and resource allocation within these influential organizations.
Second, such a benchmark would be instrumental in reshaping the public discourse surrounding artificial intelligence. The narrative around any powerful new technology is inevitably shaped by the information that is most readily available and most prominently featured. If the most visible AI assessments continue to highlight dangers and disruptions, public perception will remain tinged with fear and skepticism. Humanity’s Best Exam would provide a steady stream of positive, concrete examples of AI’s potential, offering a more balanced and hopeful counter-narrative. This perspective is essential for fostering a more informed and constructive public conversation, which is, in turn, vital for democratic oversight of this transformative technology.
Finally, a benchmark focused on positive societal impact would provide invaluable guidance for policymakers, investors, and researchers. As a law professor whose research centers on accelerating AI innovation through thoughtful legal and policy reforms, I see a pressing need for clearer signals to guide governance away from reactive, fear-driven legislation and toward proactive, enabling frameworks. Humanity’s Best Exam would illuminate areas where AI is poised to deliver significant societal returns, helping policymakers to direct strategic funding more effectively and to develop supportive, rather than stifling, regulatory environments. Investors would gain a clearer view of emerging opportunities where AI can create substantial financial and social value. Researchers across numerous disciplines could more easily identify how cutting-edge AI capabilities can be leveraged within their fields, potentially sparking new collaborations and accelerating vital research.
But who would build and oversee such an ambitious undertaking, and how could we navigate the inherent challenges? The establishment of Humanity’s Best Exam would necessitate a dedicated, independent, and broadly representative multi-stakeholder governing consortium. This body should ideally include experts from leading academic institutions, established nonprofits with proven experience in managing “grand challenges”—akin to the XPrize Foundation model that involves hosting competitions to achieve societally beneficial breakthroughs—relevant international organizations, domain specialists from fields such as public health, environmental science, and education, as well as ethicists and, critically, representatives from civil society organizations to ensure public accountability. Funding could be drawn from a diverse portfolio, including major philanthropic sources, government grants earmarked for scientific and societal advancement, and perhaps even a coalition of AI laboratories and technology firms committed to socially beneficial AI development.
To address the valid concern that defining “societal benefit” can be subjective, a primary task for this consortium would be to establish a transparent and evolving framework for identifying and prioritizing challenge areas, perhaps drawing inspiration from established global agendas such as the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals. The specific tasks within the benchmark would need to be rigorously defined, objectively measurable, and, crucially, regularly updated by diverse expert panels. This dynamism is key to preventing the benchmark from becoming stale, to avoiding the pitfalls of “teaching to the test” in a way that stifles genuine innovation, and to ensuring continued relevance as AI capabilities and societal needs evolve. Although no benchmark can ever be entirely immune to attempts at superficial optimization, focusing on complex, real-world problems with multifaceted success criteria makes simplistic gaming far more difficult than it is on narrower, purely technical tests. Furthermore, a portion of the assessment could incorporate qualitative reviews by expert panels, evaluating the robustness, safety, ethical considerations, and real-world applicability of the proposed AI tools.
The current, almost myopic focus on AI’s potential downsides, although born of a necessary caution, is inadvertently creating an innovation ecosystem shrouded in anxiety. We are meticulously documenting every conceivable way AI could go wrong, while failing to champion, encourage, and measure systematically its profound potential to go spectacularly right.
It is time to correct this imbalance. A crucial first step would be for leading philanthropic organizations, forward-thinking academic consortia, and ethically minded AI developers to convene a foundational summit. The purpose of such a gathering would be to begin outlining the charter, initial problem sets, and robust governance structure for Humanity’s Best Exam. This is far more than a mere intellectual exercise; it is a necessary reorientation of our collective focus and a deliberate effort to harness the awesome power of artificial intelligence for the betterment of all. Let us not only brace for AI’s potential last exam but actively architect its very best.
Brand Stories
Spiritual Tourism: Discover India’s Stunning Growth
Embark on a journey through spiritual tourism in India, where the sacred landscapes of Tirupati, Kashi, and Rameswaram promise not only peace and enlightenment but also a profound connection with the divine. From the serene banks of the Ganges to the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, Indias spiritual sanctuaries are redefining travel experiences for seekers worldwide.
The Spiritual Tourism Boom in India
The spiritual tourism boom in India is reshaping the landscape of travel, offering a transformative experience for those seeking peace, enlightenment, and a deeper connection with the divine. From the serene banks of the Ganges to the towering peaks of the Himalayas, India is a tapestry of sacred places that draw millions each year. This article explores the prominent spiritual destinations like Tirupati, Kashi, Rameswaram, Madurai, Kedarnath, Rishikesh, and Haridwar, which are at the forefront of this spiritual renaissance.
Tirupati: A Beacon of Devotion
Tirupati, home to the famous Venkateswara Temple, stands as one of the most visited religious sites in the world. Nestled in the lush hills of Andhra Pradesh, this town is a focal point for pilgrimage, drawing devotees from across the globe. The temple, dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, is an architectural marvel. Visitors often participate in rituals and seek blessings, enriching their spiritual journey with profound devotion. The temple’s grandeur, combined with the fervor of faith, makes Tirupati a truly captivating experience.
Kashi: The Eternal City
Kashi, also known as Varanasi, is considered the spiritual heart of India. Situated on the banks of the Ganges, this ancient city is a hub for pilgrims seeking liberation and spiritual cleansing. The ghats of Varanasi are iconic, with the Dashashwamedh Ghat being the center of vibrant rituals and Ganga Aarti. Walking through its narrow lanes, dotted with temples and ashrams, one can feel the city’s timeless spirituality. The aura of Kashi offers an immersive experience, connecting visitors to its rich cultural and religious heritage.
Rameswaram: Gateway to Salvation
Rameswaram is a revered destination in Tamil Nadu, linked to Lord Rama’s epic journey in the Ramayana. The Ramanathaswamy Temple is the town’s main attraction, celebrated for its stunning corridors and sacred wells. It is believed that a visit here can absolve one’s sins, making it a critical stop on the pilgrimage circuit. The spiritual ambiance, coupled with stunning coastal views, creates a serene retreat for those on a quest for both peace and salvation.
Madurai: The Cultural Link
Madurai, known for the Meenakshi Amman Temple, is a vibrant blend of spirituality and culture. The temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, attracting devotees and history enthusiasts alike. Madurai’s spiritual essence is intertwined with its cultural festivities, like the Chithirai Festival, which celebrates the celestial wedding of Lord Sundareswarar and Goddess Meenakshi. This blending of faith and tradition offers travelers a holistic experience of India’s spiritual mosaic.
Kedarnath: Himalayan Sanctity
Kedarnath, situated in the Garhwal Himalayan range, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites dedicated to Lord Shiva. Accessible after a challenging trek, the Kedarnath Temple offers breathtaking views and an unparalleled sense of peace. The journey to Kedarnath is more than a physical excursion; it is a spiritual ascent that brings one closer to the divine. Nestled amidst towering peaks and pristine landscapes, Kedarnath is a perfect retreat for those seeking spiritual solace and connecting with nature’s grandeur.
Rishikesh and Haridwar: Twin Spiritual Havens
Rishikesh and Haridwar, located in Uttarakhand, are significant stops on India’s spiritual trail. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh attracts those seeking inner peace through meditation and mindfulness. The serene banks of the Ganges and the surrounding green hills set the stage for spiritual exploration. Haridwar, on the other hand, is famous for its grandiose Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, which offers a mesmerizing sight of devotion and tranquility. Together, Rishikesh and Haridwar create an environment that encourages introspection and rejuvenation.
The Growing Popularity of Spiritual Tourism in India
The rise of spiritual tourism in India is fueled by both domestic and international travelers eager to explore the country’s spiritual depth. With modern travelers looking for purpose-driven experiences, India’s rich tapestry of sacred sites offers a perfect blend of spirituality and culture. Governments and organizations are recognizing this trend, investing in infrastructure to enhance the pilgrim experience while preserving the sacred sanctity of these sites.
In conclusion, the spiritual tourism boom in India is a testament to the enduring allure of its cultural and religious heritage. Whether it’s the divine chants echoing in Kashi or the tranquil prayers in Rameswaram, India’s sacred destinations offer a unique journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. These revered places are not merely destinations; they are experiences that touch the soul and inspire the spirit, inviting travelers from all walks of life on a profound pilgrimage through the heart of India.
Travel tip for today: Bargain for hotels and stays in kerala at cheQin.ai
Artificial intelligence company Astera Labs cut the ribbon on a new building Friday in San Jose.
The move adds to a steady growth in AI-related jobs even as big tech companies like Microsoft and Intel cut jobs.
In addition to opening its new building, Astera is launching an internship program to help high school students develop curriculum and decide what to study in college to eventually get jobs in the AI field.
NBC Bay Area business and tech reporter Scott Budman has more in the video above.
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