If you’re flying in first or business class on a long haul, international flight, you may be given pajamas to change into. This is offered pretty consistently in first class, while there are select airlines that offer them in business class.
I sometimes get questions from readers surrounding the etiquette of wearing pajamas on airplanes, so I wanted to talk about that in a bit more detail in this post, and also share how I approach wearing pajamas on airplanes, and why I value them. I’m also curious to hear where OMAAT readers stand on this.
In this post:
Why I like wearing airline pajamas
I love when airlines offer pajamas on long haul flights, and just about always use them, when offered. Now, I’m not someone who sleeps in pajamas at home, but I still really enjoy them when flying. Why?
- When I’m traveling, I typically have a limited amount of clothes, so it’s great to be able to change into an extra outfit while flying, so that the clothes you boarded in can stay clean and not too wrinkled
- For the most part, airline pajamas are super comfortable, as that’s how they’re designed to be; the only caveat is that they’re sometimes a bit warm, which can be a challenge on airlines without individual air nozzles
- Look, let’s be honest, it’s kind of fun to be able to wear pajamas in “public,” since the premium cabin of a plane is just about the only non-private place where this has been normalized
Airline pajamas are a fun memory of trips
Beyond the practical use of pajamas while onboard a flight, I also love being able to take home airline pajamas. I either reuse them or give them to guests who stay with us, and they always remind me fondly of great flights. I know it’s an investment on the part of airlines, but it’s a tangible memory that sticks with me.
In almost all cases, you’re welcome to take home the pajamas that airlines provide you. The only exception I can think of is that All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines sometimes provide cardigans in premium cabins, and those are for use during the flight, which can’t be taken home.
When it’s appropriate to wear airline pajamas
One etiquette question that I sometimes get from readers is during what portion of the flight it’s appropriate to wear pajamas. Should you only change into them prior to sleeping, or should you wear them for the whole flight?
To me this is pretty simple — if you’re on a long haul flight and the airline offers pajamas, you should get comfortable as soon as possible, and for as long as possible, even if that’s before takeoff. Personally I don’t buy into the whole “you should dress the part in first class” argument, since you’re quite literally in a venue where you’re given pajamas to change into.
So by all means lounge around in your pajamas, walk around the cabin in your pajamas, and even visit the inflight bar in your pajamas (if you’re on a plane with one). It’s not often you get to go to a bar in pajamas, so seize the moment!
Now, ideally do change out of them before landing, because you might feel a bit awkward walking through the terminal in them. It’s a lesson I learned the hard way in 2011.
Where to change into airline pajamas
Sometimes people wonder where it’s appropriate to change into your pajamas — do you have to go to the lavatories, or is it okay to do in your seat? I have a few thoughts on this:
- Generally it’s a best practice to change into pajamas in the lavatory, particularly for everyone else’s sake; this is what I always do
- While a slight tangent, when you go into the lavatory, please (please, please, please) wear shoes or slippers, and don’t be barefoot or wear socks, because that’s usually not water on the floor
- If you’re in a private suite with a door, and it’s a phase of flight where everyone is seated, and your privates are covered up while changing, then I don’t think changing at your seat is that offensive
Regarding that last point, I don’t want to encourage people to change into pajamas at their seat, but my point is simply that if you can do it without anyone noticing, then I guess it’s not that bad. That being said, I can’t count the number of times I’ve seen people change into their pajamas at their seats, and I’ve seen things I didn’t want to see.
Bottom line
It’s a treat when airlines offer pajamas in premium cabins on flights. It’s practical in terms of having something comfortable to sleep and lounge in, and it’s also a fun memory of a travel experience. Personally I think it’s always appropriate to change into pajamas on a long haul flight, and prefer to do so in the lavatory.
Where do you stand on etiquette when it comes to pajamas on airplanes?
I agree with you Ben on this enlightening article about "PJ Etiquette". Since just like you, I too have seen things onboard that I wish I can unseen; and just maybe, an article like this one would have helped the passenger learn a thing or two on what's acceptable or not when wearing the pjs that were offered on board a flight. So I definitely thank you for sharing!
Have a look at the picture of the TG PJs in this post? Why would anybody want to wear ANYTHING even remotely like that voluntarily?
Do people actually actively wish to look like inmates in a correctional facility?
Then, these pieces of clothing (if you seriously want to call it like that) are the most uncomfortable and unflattering things to wear I can think of. Flimsy, cheap fabric, usually polyester, rarely any cotton in...
Have a look at the picture of the TG PJs in this post? Why would anybody want to wear ANYTHING even remotely like that voluntarily?
Do people actually actively wish to look like inmates in a correctional facility?
Then, these pieces of clothing (if you seriously want to call it like that) are the most uncomfortable and unflattering things to wear I can think of. Flimsy, cheap fabric, usually polyester, rarely any cotton in sight, one size fits all, meaning one size fits nobody…
Looks like bought in a thrift shop for 5,99 (if that) in absolutely awful grey and brown colours. I wouldn’t even dare to donate something that tacky for charity/the local shelter.
But wait, they do have an airline logo on them so they signify that we are of the select few who are able to fly longhaul business class where such exclusive items of clothing are handed out for free to the truly deserving…
Maybe that is the underlying reason.
Pathetic.
As far as the toilet goes, I buy 10 or so pairs of hotel type slippers with solid soles at a time and take a couple of pairs with me on a trip. Then just leave them on the flight. I never use the provided amenity socks.
I cannot see the point of those stupid socks. It's the first thing to be chucked when I explore the amenities kit.
I think the section on tipping etiquette while changing in and out of PJs was forgotten, or it is a topic big enough to deserve its own post.....
They’re not pajamas… they’re lounge wear, traditionally provided on Asian and middle eastern airlines but recently imitated by United and what’s left of first class on American.
I find it funny an American considers it risqué and adventurous, need an etiquette guide on when to be wearing such things in public when that’s essentially what they’re for. Most people wear nothing when they sleep. The etiquette around loungewear is its for wearing when you might...
They’re not pajamas… they’re lounge wear, traditionally provided on Asian and middle eastern airlines but recently imitated by United and what’s left of first class on American.
I find it funny an American considers it risqué and adventurous, need an etiquette guide on when to be wearing such things in public when that’s essentially what they’re for. Most people wear nothing when they sleep. The etiquette around loungewear is its for wearing when you might encounter someone, a guest in your home, a maid in a hotel suite, in the relax area of a spa or public bath.
Whilst most airline pyjamas look good on the male passengers, there is a dearth of pyjamas that suit the female body particularly those of us who are on the petite side.
Pajamas aren't about looking good. Pajamas are about comfort.
The advice to change into pajamas prior to takeoff is just absurd. You have people moving around the cabin, the crew is trying to make the cabin ready for flight and most importantly you have no idea when there may be an emergency and you need to get off the plane. My preference is I don't do it until I am turning the seat into a bed. I'm already dressed reasonably comfortably when I board...
The advice to change into pajamas prior to takeoff is just absurd. You have people moving around the cabin, the crew is trying to make the cabin ready for flight and most importantly you have no idea when there may be an emergency and you need to get off the plane. My preference is I don't do it until I am turning the seat into a bed. I'm already dressed reasonably comfortably when I board the plane so the additional comfort only really matters to me when I am going to try to sleep.
I'm surprised people give you dirty looks wearing PJ's in the airport. The number of people who look like they haven't gotten themselves ready in days that come rolling through airports is increasing at an exponential rate. Come on people, at least comb your hair and put on a clean shirt before heading to the airport. You are still
'out in public'.
Always weird to see people wandering around a lounge dressed like they are in their living room skipping work.
I once wore QF PJs in J on a Delta flight SYD-LAX a few years ago and going to the lavatory, which was next to the galley, the captain was having a coffee break and he said, almost apologetically, that Delta used to offer PJs as well.
Qantas A380s have a great little nook on the side with a curtain to change your pajamas. That was the highlight on my 14 hour delayed journey with no catering, in QF J class.
I change at my seat under the blanket. I did it once in the bathroom and keeping my Sox off the floor was so difficult and the risk was just too disgusting.
On a recent flight on Emirates, everyone in the bar was in PJs. So funny/cute!
@Michael - I agree with keeping regular clothes on until 10K feet. I keep my wallet and passport on me and usually wear a jacket. Then if an emergency evac - and you can't take your carry one - at least you have passport and credit cards.
Question: Do people leave there underwear on with the PJs?
Once on an AF flight in J, CAN to CDG, PJ’s were not provided, and as soon as the seatbelt sign went off the French businessman sitting across the aisle from me stood up, unzipped, pulled off his pants, stuffed them into a cubbyhole at his seat, sat down again & pulled his blanket over him to go to sleep. Very matter of factly, as if it was normal behavior to disrobe in plain view of the rest of the cabin on a long haul overnight flight.
Europeans have different ideas about such things.
I’m team casual wear. I’ll take the Pajamas and gift them to a friend or family. Go to Dicks sporting goods and get a nice pair of athletic pants and under armor shirt. So comfy thank me later. No one wears sweatpants any more.
Regarding the lavatory ; I put the socks on from the amenity kit as soon as I board and will wear those for the duration of the flight. Upon landing I’ll leave them behind on the plane .
"No one wears sweatpants any more"
Not true.
I recently flew the “game changer” from HND DXB and so of course, I changed in my suite. I also was the only pax in F. Then on the refurb 380 from DXB IAH, I considered changing in the suite as the height of the walls has increased but of course, the shower spa bathrooms are so spacious, I ended up there! I did have a drink in the bar in my PJs but no...
I recently flew the “game changer” from HND DXB and so of course, I changed in my suite. I also was the only pax in F. Then on the refurb 380 from DXB IAH, I considered changing in the suite as the height of the walls has increased but of course, the shower spa bathrooms are so spacious, I ended up there! I did have a drink in the bar in my PJs but no one else was there! I do find it a bit difficult changing in the more standard sized lavatories but still manage. I still covet my Shanghai Tang PJs from the good ole CX days!
They have cameras in your "game changer".
@ Eskimo. How do you know they have cameras in the suites?
There’s a video chat feature so the FA can see you and you can see them ;-)
I'll change into PJs even if I have the misfortune to travel in economy these days. Just makes it so much easier to get a good nights sleep, even in the cheap seats.
Good article BUT : The days of dressing to fly on First are long gone.
I think that you either forgot or never even thought that :
FLYING IS STILL A DANGEROUS ADVENTURE, Yes, fortunately the rate of accidents is not what it used to be . However,
If you are unfortunately involved in one on take off I WOULD RATHER BE DRESSED IN STREET CLOTHES AND SHOES THAN PAJAMAS AND SLIPPERS.
Perhaps petty BUT is is real.
Not all airline PJs are created equal. Look Qantas' flimsy version with the ultra tacky airline mascot plastered across (literally) the entire front. Google it!. To save the hassle, and cut down on waste, I bring my own 'onboard clothes' - dark cotton tracksuit pants (never those shiny synthetic ones) and sweatshirt - which can double as both lounging gear and sleeping gear. This way I know it will be 'presentable enough' to my fellow...
Not all airline PJs are created equal. Look Qantas' flimsy version with the ultra tacky airline mascot plastered across (literally) the entire front. Google it!. To save the hassle, and cut down on waste, I bring my own 'onboard clothes' - dark cotton tracksuit pants (never those shiny synthetic ones) and sweatshirt - which can double as both lounging gear and sleeping gear. This way I know it will be 'presentable enough' to my fellow pax and crew instead of PJs, which make me feel self conscious. And, I know it will be a perfect fit on my body and be comfortable.
Question — what’s your take on asking for a size that may be a great gift for the kid you have left behind? I’m flying EVA and the set that fits me outbound will fit one of my kids. Can I ask for a larger size on my way home for my taller kid?
Sure. Or just tell 'em you like much larger pajamas.
No need to explain anything. They will give you whatever size you ask for. Usually they'll give you an additional unopened set if you tell them it's a gift which will be gratefully received.
Professional aviator here. DEFINITELY not changing until airborne and cleared to move about. i HAVE had to evacuate an airplane on the ground in an emergency....more than once. You wan long pants, (ideally) a long sleeve shirt, and close toed shoes to minimize injuries.
I'll admit that I'm a Pajama-Tart! I love PJs and what they represent (to me). I grew up wearing them, (a child of the 1970s), so I guess they instill a nurturing feeling all around. In today's crazy world, as we slice through the sky in a metal tube, they provide an extra layer of comfort, both physically and emotionally (playful). In fact, as I write this from my hotel room in Kuala Lumpur, I'm...
I'll admit that I'm a Pajama-Tart! I love PJs and what they represent (to me). I grew up wearing them, (a child of the 1970s), so I guess they instill a nurturing feeling all around. In today's crazy world, as we slice through the sky in a metal tube, they provide an extra layer of comfort, both physically and emotionally (playful). In fact, as I write this from my hotel room in Kuala Lumpur, I'm wearing my UA PJs, and having just flown EK on a short hop this week from SIN to PHN (Phnom Penh), I was given a new set of jammies and I look forward to my EVA flight in a couple of days back to California where I will garner an updated set of Jason Wu's designer sleepwear. I always change after take-off, since as Kelly said earlier, that is a very critical phase of the flight, (my Dad was a pilot for 40 years). Thanks for letting us add to this playful topic...and may all of our flights be "Positive Journeys!" #PJTartsUnite
I bring my own PJs on long haul overnight business class flights that don't offer them. Even some long day flights I might change into them. I usually change after the main meal and change back before landing. Nobody ever blinks an eye at this, especially FAs. They seem completely used to it.
I only change in bathrooms. In fact on Qatar QSuites when they handed me PJs, they made a point to say that...
I bring my own PJs on long haul overnight business class flights that don't offer them. Even some long day flights I might change into them. I usually change after the main meal and change back before landing. Nobody ever blinks an eye at this, especially FAs. They seem completely used to it.
I only change in bathrooms. In fact on Qatar QSuites when they handed me PJs, they made a point to say that I should go to the bathroom to change into them i.e. dont change in your QSuite.
Another good fun post. While staying ready under 10,000 feet, I enjoy the comfort and save on my traveling drag. I’ll wear shorts with the top, but enjoy top and bottom while lounging around the hotel room upon arrival
Oh. And I have changed in SQ Suites and EK Game-Changer cabin ;-)
Safe Travels in comfort
What about putting them on before boarding ? Très gauche ? A plane lav isn't spacious, and wouldn't it be easier in a stall at the nearby terminal bathroom ?
If you’re good with it, go for it! Have you seen what diversity in clothing there is at the airport
Be comfortable. Enjoy!
I don’t like to change in the lavatory on planes, so I always change beforehand in the lounge. I wear a meriwool t-shirt (either long or short sleeve) and lululemon pants that look like trousers, which are more than comfortable enough for sleep. I only take the PJs home if there is a specific article that I really want.
I'm of the belief PJ's are only to worn when sleeping. I think you need better clothes if your pants and shirts are so uncomfortable that you need to change ... and I'm not taking about shorts and a t-shirt. I wear pants, a collared shirt, etc ... sometimes as low as $100 for the entire outfit and it's comfortable enough to sit for hours or even sleep in them if necessary. It's unclear how...
I'm of the belief PJ's are only to worn when sleeping. I think you need better clothes if your pants and shirts are so uncomfortable that you need to change ... and I'm not taking about shorts and a t-shirt. I wear pants, a collared shirt, etc ... sometimes as low as $100 for the entire outfit and it's comfortable enough to sit for hours or even sleep in them if necessary. It's unclear how your clothes can be so uncomfortable, why did you buy them or are you a nudist? I get it if you are but please fly private. if you want to fly in the nude.
I have thoughts on this.... I wear the pajamas for the reasons you do - to save my clothes, and also because then if I spill something during the meal service, the mess is on the PJ's and not on my clothes. I change in the lav, because, ooooohhhh, just no. And, my husband, who is a pilot, pointed out that the first and last 20 minutes of the flight are the most risky, so...
I have thoughts on this.... I wear the pajamas for the reasons you do - to save my clothes, and also because then if I spill something during the meal service, the mess is on the PJ's and not on my clothes. I change in the lav, because, ooooohhhh, just no. And, my husband, who is a pilot, pointed out that the first and last 20 minutes of the flight are the most risky, so I should change after and before that point (prior to him pointing that out, I changed the minute I could!).
I also love them and keep them as cool souvenirs, but you're right that they are often a bit warm.
There is no way I would have enough room to change clothes in an airplane bathroom, and their pj's would never fit me anyway (I'm very tall and skinny). I wear comfortable clothing when I fly and never fully recline my seat (as there will be no room for my feet).
I think I'm meant to fly private all the time. :-)
I always change before takeoff. What else is the point of early boarding ?
I tend to agree! As I want to get comfy asap and have a glass of champagne.....and seriously.....am I truly going to be "saved" from a crash upon takeoff if I am in street clothes rather than the airline PJ's? I doubt it...and am willing to take my chances.....I DO however keep my shoes "handy" until we are safely off....
Thanks, Ben, for starting a conversation around a topic that I've actually wondered about. I agree that it's great to be able to sit at the bar in Emirates in your comfortable PJs, which look more like designer tracksuits.
You didn't address the issue (and one that I have definite thoughts about): Is it okay to go commando under the PJs? I'm guessing it's very comfortable. Do you have any thoughts?
Why not? Go for it. A lot are commando all the time.
Obviously there are various opinions on this Personally I wear closedfly Jambees shorts w pockets with the PJ top.
Just do it!
I just change into pajamas at cruising altitude (sometimes before first meal service, sometimes right afterwards) and change back as soon as the last meal service is over (again, sometimes even before the meal, depending on the situation).
And regarding this:
> Generally it’s a best practice to change into pajamas in the lavatory, particularly for everyone else’s sake; this is what I always do
When changing in the lavatory, I always pick...
I just change into pajamas at cruising altitude (sometimes before first meal service, sometimes right afterwards) and change back as soon as the last meal service is over (again, sometimes even before the meal, depending on the situation).
And regarding this:
> Generally it’s a best practice to change into pajamas in the lavatory, particularly for everyone else’s sake; this is what I always do
When changing in the lavatory, I always pick the accessible lavatory. Usually that's a bit bigger than the others and also has a foldable changing table, which is pretty useful for placing your stuff. I even tend to select the seat based on proximity to that lavatory (given there's no other reason for choosing a different seat further away).
I wear the pajama top with short, because I can't sleep in pants, is that ok?
I wear pajamas (well, sweatpants and a t-shirt) on all long-haul flights I take, even if it's not overnight. I almost exclusively fly across the Atlantic or Pacific (usually 10+ hour flights) in business or first class and I'm not trying to impress anyone, so why would I dress up?
On some economy class flights, I wear pajamas that I change into after the plane has reached cruising altitude.
“That being said, I can’t count the number of times I’ve seen people change into their pajamas at their seats, and I’ve seen things I didn’t want to see.”
Ok, I’ll ask, can you count the number of times you’ve seen people change into their pajamas at their seats and you saw things you did want to see?
Take Dennis Bunnik's advice: Don't wear pajamas in a lower cabin unless you want to be looked at as a ****head. Moving on, I bring my own pajamas and just save these as a memento along with amenity kits. I actually have plenty of CX pajamas along with unopened amenity kits from the late 00s-early '10s.
Most airlines don't even offer first class, and I doubt that anyone would even notice that I am e.g. in Iberia J wearing the nondescript grey pyjamas that I got given in LH F a decade ago. Having said that, for overnight flights I prefer to shower in the lounge and change into shorts and a t-shirt so that I don't have to worry about whether pyjamas are offered, which sizes are available etc.
I would advise against being in Pjs during the critical phases of flight (take off and landing). During these periods I would stay civilian clothes with shoes on in case of an unforeseen emergency evacuation. Think the LOT runway crash landing in Warsaw or the TWA 'crash' of the L1011 at JFK back in '92 as examples.
You wouldn't want to fumbling for shoes or going down the slide barefoot or in PJs IMHO.
As a former airline employee who has worked at accident scenes I can totally agree with you. You need to be prepared to move quickly and safely, without all of the crap you brought on board, in the rare but possible event of an emergency.
I would agree. I am a former Pan Am (remember the "blue ball" ?) people have no idea what it's like evacuating in an emergency. And emergencies DO HAPPEN ! sliding down the slides can melt panty hose... you get the idea. So yes, enjoy the jamies but after takeoff and before landing
Same here. My regular clothes and shoes stay on below 10,000 feet. Phone, wallet and passport (when applicable) in my pockets. If it's cold outside I may or may not keep my jacket on to be ready for an emergency evac. Odds are remote, but it's a worthy tradeoff for me.
I’m an old Boy Scout. Be Prepared. I wear all natural fiber clothing and keep shoes on below 10,000 feet.
I wear a hoodie with a comfy t-shirt and shorts/sweat pants during flights, with the intention that I maximise comfort and it matches what I normally wear when I sleep, so I pretty much never take the pajamas on offer.
My partner and I have the fortune of pretty much always flying business or first, and mostly ANA or JAL for Asia flights, it's always a surprise to the flight crew when at the...
I wear a hoodie with a comfy t-shirt and shorts/sweat pants during flights, with the intention that I maximise comfort and it matches what I normally wear when I sleep, so I pretty much never take the pajamas on offer.
My partner and I have the fortune of pretty much always flying business or first, and mostly ANA or JAL for Asia flights, it's always a surprise to the flight crew when at the end of the flight they offer a new set of pajamas for me to take away and I just refuse it because I don't need it. My partner used to get an extra set for herself until she now has way too many sets to use.
We've found that they do make decent additional gifts for our parents though.
You give PJs to your parents.
Do you know how creepy that sounds?
They're freebies and we tell them they are freebies in addition to everything else we bring when we visit them.
We also paid for their house, allowance and also a trust that gives them a decent living given that all 4 of our parents came from nothing and managed to put both my partner (her siblings) and me through high school before both of us got scholarships. We're both very honest and direct with...
They're freebies and we tell them they are freebies in addition to everything else we bring when we visit them.
We also paid for their house, allowance and also a trust that gives them a decent living given that all 4 of our parents came from nothing and managed to put both my partner (her siblings) and me through high school before both of us got scholarships. We're both very honest and direct with our parents like they were with us regarding all situations.
I don't know what type of relationship you may have with your parents and maybe they want for nothing (which, congrats to you and them), but some older people like free stuff (last time I checked, it's not only poor people that like free loot), so what's wrong with satisfying that?
"but some older people like free stuff"
I'd testify to that without fear of perjury and now I am one.
@Eskimo you do realize you're the one with a weirdo comment, right?
Right Michael, go ahead and buy a bra for you mother in law.
Don't be too harsh on Eskimo, the way he/she thinks of things, it's likely that whenever an adult goes near a child, the only motive is the molest and do unspeakable things to them. Just like the moment he/she is remotely close to older relatives, it's just clouded with unlimited amounts of unethical things.
Btw Eskimo, no one is "buying" things for their in laws, these are freebies.
And second, I'm very glad...
Don't be too harsh on Eskimo, the way he/she thinks of things, it's likely that whenever an adult goes near a child, the only motive is the molest and do unspeakable things to them. Just like the moment he/she is remotely close to older relatives, it's just clouded with unlimited amounts of unethical things.
Btw Eskimo, no one is "buying" things for their in laws, these are freebies.
And second, I'm very glad for you and for your relatives that you've never had to "buy" diapers for your bedridden grandparents and god forbid change them - god knows what goes through your mind if you had to do that.
Lucky, do you have a view on taking pajamas onto an airline that doesn't offer them?
Such a flying AF J, BA J, or United (shorter flights) or Delta.
@ david -- I think that's totally fair to do, and you shouldn't get any weird looks (though if the pajamas are from a competing airline, you may get some funny commentary). ;-)
My wife always takes her Qatar Airways pajamas when flying other long haul flights and changes into that asap. Many times female flight attendants comment on that (in a positive way).
I always take other pajamas on flights where the airline doesn't offer them. Don't want me to wear other airline pajamas? Then give me pajamas!
I’ve worn my QR J and JL F PJs on my JFK-SIN flights on SQ. I don’t think the SQ FAs minded it.
I regularly take a set of QR pjs on any flight I know none will be on offer (Lookin' at you AirFrance! I bet if you put your mind to it you could come up with something quite chic!).
For those not wishing to flaunt another airlines branding, a plain T-shirt and light leisure-wear pants will do.
Totally impractical. I'll just sleep in my own clothes.
I don't take pajamas with me. At home, I sleep fully nude.
You should really hold your comments "to a higher bar of decorum." Nobody here wants to read about you (or anyone else) sleeping in the nude.
Please do not debase my body. There is no shame in sleeping naked. Scientific research has backed up its health merits.
I don’t mind ;-)
Just don’t try sleeping nude on the plane. Speaking from experience it sucks being banned from Delta and United. I guess it’s a common policy.
LOL