Planning a trip? You’ve booked the flights, checked your passport a dozen times, and mapped out your route to the airport. But there’s one decision that might seem small but actually has a huge impact—what to wear on the plane. A savvy traveler has revealed a surprising, and frankly gross, reason why you should consider wearing a hoodie on every flight. This seemingly simple garment might just be your best line of defense against germs on a plane.
This is why people are wearing hoodies on flights (Getty Stock Images)
The Unseen Dangers of Plane Seats and Why a Hoodie Helps
Peyton Reese Nelson, a frequent flyer and popular TikToker, shared her flight outfit must-have in a now-viral video. Her essential item? A hoodie. And her reason isn’t about looking stylish or staying warm—it’s all about protecting herself from the germs lurking on plane seats.
Peyton demonstrated her tip by sitting in a plane seat, pulling her hoodie over her head to prevent her hair from touching the seat. As she explained, “Saw a TikTok once of a girl saying she always wears a hoodie on the plane so her hair doesn’t touch the seat, and I will never forget it.” This simple tip has resonated with viewers, with many pledging to adopt the hoodie hack for their future travels. But why is this necessary? Here’s a look at what’s really going on with airplane hygiene.
The Dirty Truth About Airplane Seats
Airplane seats, tray tables, and seat pockets are notorious for being some of the germiest spots on a flight. Travel operator Ski Vertigo explains that these surfaces can harbor bacteria and viruses due to their heavy use and limited cleaning time between flights. With multiple passengers using the same seat daily, these surfaces become hotspots for germs and grime. Despite airlines’ best efforts, the sheer volume of passengers makes it difficult to thoroughly clean every seat after each flight.
Even if seats look clean, they can carry remnants from previous passengers—think hair, oils, skin cells, and even traces of spilled food or drinks. This buildup can lead to the transmission of illnesses and irritants, making a hoodie an ideal protective barrier.
@peytonreesenelson never not traveling in a hoodie #travelhack #traveltok ♬ original sound – Peyton Reese Nelson
How Wearing a Hoodie Can Protect You
A hoodie can act as a shield, keeping your head and hair off potentially contaminated surfaces. Not only does it provide a layer between you and the seat, but it also reduces the likelihood of picking up irritants that could trigger skin reactions or cause discomfort.
Many fellow travelers chimed in on Peyton’s post, saying they’ve adopted similar habits. One commenter said, “Wait, I always wear hoodies and long pants on planes for this exact reason.” Others noted that they also cover their hair in places like movie theaters and public transportation to avoid contact with questionable surfaces.
Flight Attendant-Approved: Protecting More Than Just Your Hair
One TikTok commenter, who claimed to be a flight attendant, supported the hoodie tip and shared more travel advice: “As a flight attendant, yes. Also, do not ever wear clothing that exposes your skin to the seats. Long pants and long skirts are a must. Keep hand sanitizer with you always.” Their insight adds an extra layer of validation to the idea, emphasizing that you shouldn’t expose your skin to airplane seats if you can avoid it.
People were in agreement over the fashion advice (Getty stock photo)
Beyond the Hoodie: Other Ways to Stay Clean and Comfortable on a Plane
While a hoodie can protect your hair and head, consider other tips to make your flight as clean and comfortable as possible:
1. Wear Long Pants and Long-Sleeved Tops
Just as a hoodie shields your head, long pants and sleeves can protect your skin from direct contact with the seat. Covering up can help you avoid direct contact with germs and allergens, especially if you have sensitive skin.
2. Bring a Personal Hygiene Kit
Pack a small kit with essentials like hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and even a spare set of clothes. Disinfectant wipes are especially useful for wiping down high-touch surfaces like armrests, tray tables, and seatbelt buckles.
3. Change Clothes After Your Flight
For long-haul flights, experts suggest changing clothes once you reach your destination. This simple step reduces the risk of carrying germs from the plane to other places and can make you feel refreshed after a long journey. Consider packing a comfortable change of clothes in your carry-on if space allows.
4. Avoid Touching Your Face
Planes can harbor allergens and irritants, so avoid touching your face to prevent transferring germs to sensitive areas. Use tissues or hand sanitizer if you need to adjust your mask or touch your face, and wash your hands frequently.
The Benefits of a Hoodie for In-Flight Comfort and Cleanliness
A hoodie isn’t just a stylish or cozy choice for flights; it can be a practical barrier against germs. Its hood creates a soft, protective layer, keeping your hair and scalp from direct contact with the seat. This setup reduces the chances of encountering germs or residue left behind by previous passengers.
Additionally, a hoodie adds warmth, which is always helpful on often chilly planes. The pockets offer a convenient place to store items you want to keep close, like earphones, hand sanitizer, or even a small snack.
The Science Behind Germs on Airplanes and How to Minimize Exposure
The high-traffic nature of planes makes it easy for germs to linger, and with limited time for thorough cleaning, some bacteria can remain on surfaces. Studies have shown that surfaces like tray tables and seat pockets can carry cold viruses, flu, and even traces of fecal matter. Yikes!
By covering up with a hoodie, keeping hand sanitizer on hand, and changing out of plane clothes, you’re minimizing your risk of bringing unwanted germs with you.
Conclusion: Next Time You Fly, Consider Bringing a Hoodie
If Peyton Reese Nelson’s viral video teaches us anything, it’s that a hoodie can be an unexpected but effective tool for travel hygiene. The next time you’re packing for a flight, remember this simple tip and consider donning a hoodie—not just for comfort, but as a safeguard against the less-than-ideal cleanliness of airplane seats. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in staying comfortable and healthy during your journey.
