Things get improved, as the day goes by. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, air travel has become a part of modern life. What to wear on the plane has also become a point of debate.
In case you are asking, can you wear slides on a plane? Here is our view of it. In most cases, it is wrong to wear slippers on a plane, as they could pose a safety hazard. Also note that slides can be very comfortable footwear. Hence, it is not bad for air travel.
In any case, airplanes have guidelines for what their passengers can and cannot wear. Especially if your journey is lengthy, some airlines may allow it. In this article, you will see from both sides if you can wear slides on planes.
Can You Wear Slides On A Plane?
Slides are also known as flip-flops. They are a popular choice for many people whose aim is comfort and ease. Slides are lightweight and easy to slip on and off. Perfect for lounging around the beach or poolside. But are they appropriate for air travel?
Airline Policies
The majority of airlines for some reason, have dress codes. This applies to passengers during boarding and flight. These dress codes are designed to ensure safety, comfort and hygiene for all passengers.
While the specifications may be different from airline to airline. Still, most dress codes include restrictions on footwear. Some airlines have released statements against the use of slides.
This policy is in place to prevent slips and falls on the cabin floor, in particular. As well as to minimize the spread of germs and bacteria. Similarly, American Airlines’ dress code specifies that “shoes must be worn at all times in the airport.
Although this guideline seems more profitable than depriving. However, some airlines are more lenient when it comes to footwear. Southwest Airlines allows passengers to wear slippers or house shoes during flights. This is as long as they are not bulky or noisy.
Also, another company, JetBlue Airways, allows passengers to wear slides or sandals during flights. Instead, they will advise them to bring socks along in case the cabin gets cold.
Benefits of Wearing Slides on a Plane
Despite the mixed messages from airlines, there are some compelling reasons why passengers might choose to wear slides on a plane. Here are a few
1. Comfort
Slides are known for their comfort and ease of use. Their ability to provide a great deal of support and cushioning for the feet is the most valid reason. This makes them ideal for long flights where you want to relax and rejuvenate.
Slides also allow your feet to breathe and prevent sweat from building up. Slides can be especially important during hot weather or long layovers.
2. Convenience
When thinking of what is easy to put on and off at any moment, think of slides. They are incredibly easy to slip on and off, which makes them perfect. They are also perfect for airport security checkpoints or bathroom breaks during flights.
And for convenience’s sake, when stalking your clothes into your luggage, they are the best. They also take up minimal space in your carry-on luggage or backpack. This is greatly valued and especially important if you’re traveling light or have limited packing space.
3. Style
Slides come in a collection of styles and designs. They can range from rubber soles to a fashionable design. Or a collection of classic soles with decorative straps or embellishments.
This means that passengers can express their style. This is while still adhering to airline dress codes, as long as they follow any specific guidelines.
Why it’s not Best to Wear Slides on a Plane
It is worth noting that while slides have their advantages, there are also some potential disadvantages. These include some likely insignificant things that passengers should consider before deciding on their footwear.
1. Safety
Many airlines have instructions that passengers must adhere to. Some of them require passengers to wear shoes at all times. This is to prevent slipping and falling on the cabin floor.
Most times during turbulence or any other unexpected events. These instructions are to save passengers from losing their footing. Slides may not provide enough friction or support in these situations. Which could lead to injury or discomfort overall.
2. Hygiene
While slides may be comfortable and convenient for passengers themselves, they might not be too safe hygienically. They could potentially pose a hygiene risk for other passengers.
Germs and bacteria can easily spread through shared surfaces like armrests or tray tables. So this can be important for passengers to consider. Note how your footwear choices might impact others around you.
3. Airline Policies
As noted earlier, some airlines have strict dress codes that prohibit certain types of footwear. These specifications are also to keep passengers safe and prevent accidents onboard.
Hence, you should always check your airline’s specific policies. This should be done before boarding to avoid any potential issues. Sometimes this can lead to delays at security checkpoints or gate agents.
Tips for Travelers Considering Wearing Slides on a Plane
Also, if you still consider wearing slides on your next flight despite your potential fears. Some tips could help you make an informed decision before boarding.
1. Check Your Airline’s Dress Code
You must familiarize yourself with your airline’s specific policies regarding footwear before boarding your flight. This will help you avoid any potential issues or delays at security checkpoints or gate agents.
If your airline allows slides but requires socks as well, consider packing a pair in your carry-on luggage. Just in case you will need them later on during the flight. Sometimes the weather you encounter might be unexpected and harsh.
2. Choose Your Slides Carefully
If you do decide to wear slides on your flight, make sure they are appropriate for the occasion. Make selections of those who have good support and cushioning to minimize discomfort during long flights.
Also, look for styles with good friction reactivity to prevent slips and falls during turbulence. You can consider carrying an extra pair of shoes with a better grip just in case of any unexpected events.
3. Pack smart
When traveling, travel light. And if you’re traveling lightly, that means you have limited packing space. You should consider packing your slides in your carry-on luggage instead of stalking them. This will also give you easy access to these sides during security checkpoints.
If you’re carrying multiple pairs of shoes with you, like sneakers for exercise or sandals for beach activities, you can also consider packing them all into one compact bag to save space. Consider investing in packing cubes or compression bags, if necessary.
Conclusion
Conclusively, you can wear slides on a plane, but there are a few things to keep in mind. In a case where the airlines do not have a dress code for their passengers, you should know it is up to your discretion. However, you may want to consider comfort and practicality when choosing what to wear.
