$100 Outfit: Winter plane travel outfit

One of the biggest complaints about travel is how uncomfortable it is. The seats are cramped and far from ergonomically acceptable, there’s nowhere to stretch out and sleeping in an airplane is next to impossible.

Luckily, if you wear the right clothes, you can ease that discomfort quite a bit. But that doesn’t mean showing up for your flight in your pajama bottoms and slippers.

Maintain style and some dignity and dress for comfort — and fashion on your next flight.

Here’s how to put together the perfect winter plane travel outfit for under $100.

Always layer:

One key to smart dress is to layer, because airplane temperatures can vary so dramatically. You never know if it will get muggy and hot or if you’ll be sitting next to someone who blasts their air the whole flight.

In addition, a layered outfit will accommodate for varying airport temperatures, as well as the weather when you arrive. If you’re traveling in winter, chances are you’re migrating somewhere warm, and it’s no fun to start your beach vacation in a bulky sweater and jeans.

Start with a baggy tank and cardigan:

Slip into a cute tank top for your base layer. A tunic-style tank (long and baggy) isn’t confining or fitting, so it’s way more comfy than a fitted tank. Plus, that’s what’s in style right now. Me To We Shades fo Cool Tunic Tank Top, on sale $11.47 (plus Cash Back), PacSun.com 

Pop an oversized cardigan on top, like a lightweight knit open-front sweater, and you can bundle up or cool off, as needed. Pick one in a neutral color and you can mix and match it with vacation attire, too. Hacci Cocoon Cargigan, on sale $10 (plus Cash Back), Charlotte Russe   

Pick a comfy wireless bra:

You can wear your tank over your swimsuit when you arrive, but for now, wear your tank over a cute bralette or sports bra with no structure. You’ll appreciate the freedom. Nollie Lace Triangle Bralette, $19.95 (plus Cash Back), PacSun.com

Pick a comfy but classy bottom:

You will be tempted to wear leggings, and we’re all about that — if you can find a pair that is flattering, i.e. not see-through, pilled or glorified pajamas. An equally as comfortable option with a little more structure and class are a slightly baggy pair of trousers or joggers.

Charlotte Russe has elastic-waist olive joggers for just $15, and while they may not be fancy, they do have real pockets and a cargo-inspired look that makes them feel like real clothing, not just something you should be wearing underneath a tunic. Cropped Jogger Pants, $15 (plus Cash Back), CharlotteRusse.com 

Shoes matter:

Although you will be sitting on the plane for much of the trip, you will also be booking it through the airport and walking to your gate. Feet get beat up during travel, so treat them nicely with a good pair of shoes. While sneakers can be a smart choice — they double up as workout wear when you arrive and are made for comfort — they can feel a little sloppy, too. And the laces aren’t practical for security checkpoints.

Instead, a plain pair of slip-on flats provide comfort and can be your main vacation shoe, too, whatever weather awaits. We love these American Rag black flats with a scalloped edge, because they’re equally neutral and a little funky, without being weird.

American Rag is a quality shoemaker, too, so you can expect these to be made well.

Plus, the slip-on ease will make airport security a breeze. American Rag Erin Scalloped Ballet Flats, on sale $34.65 (plus Cash Back), Macys.com