Ryanair has issued a clear health recommendation to passengers, urging them to reconsider their travel wardrobe choices for the sake of comfort and safety. The airline's recent social media guidance has sparked considerable discussion among holidaymakers, yet medical professionals have firmly endorsed the advice, highlighting significant health risks associated with restrictive garments during air travel.
Medical Experts Support Airline's Clothing Guidance
Medical authorities have confirmed that wearing tight clothing, particularly figure-hugging jeans and leggings, can severely impair blood circulation in the legs. This restriction becomes especially dangerous during extended periods of sitting, which is typical on flights. When blood flow is compromised, it can lead to serious health complications that every traveller should be aware of.
The Dangers of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Prolonged inactivity combined with restrictive clothing creates a perfect storm for developing deep vein thrombosis. This condition involves the formation of blood clots within the deep veins of the legs, which can have life-threatening consequences if not properly addressed. The risk increases substantially when passengers wear garments that constrict normal blood flow throughout their journey.
Additional Health Concerns from Tight Clothing
Beyond DVT, medical professionals warn that extremely tight travel outfits can lead to other concerning conditions:
- Compartment syndrome - A painful condition where pressure builds within muscle compartments
- Meralgia paresthetica - Characterised by persistent numbness and tingling sensations
- General discomfort and reduced mobility during flights
These conditions can result in severe leg pain and potentially long-term physical complications if travellers ignore the warning signs.
Ryanair's Social Media Campaign
The airline delivered its message through a TikTok video that initially confused many viewers. The post featured text stating "It's 2026, let's stop travelling in jeans," accompanied by a voiceover saying "Thank you for flying Ryanair." When questioned by followers about the reasoning behind this advice, the airline responded simply: "What's right with them?" indicating their firm stance on the matter.
Optimal Travel Clothing Recommendations
While Ryanair hasn't implemented a formal dress code, they strongly recommend that passengers choose:
- Loose-fitting trousers or leggings
- Breathable, comfortable fabrics
- Clothing that allows free movement
- Layers that can be adjusted for changing cabin temperatures
These choices help maintain proper circulation throughout the flight, significantly reducing health risks while enhancing overall comfort.
Prioritising Health Over Fashion
The airline's guidance represents a shift toward prioritising physical wellbeing over fashion trends during air travel. By making simple adjustments to their travel attire, passengers can dramatically reduce their risk of experiencing medical emergencies at 30,000 feet. This proactive approach to passenger health demonstrates how small changes in preparation can lead to significant improvements in travel safety and comfort.
Medical experts emphasise that choosing appropriate travel clothing isn't just about comfort - it's a genuine health precaution that every frequent flyer should consider. As air travel continues to evolve, this advice serves as an important reminder that sometimes, the simplest preparations can make the biggest difference to our wellbeing.
