Travelling by aeroplane is often the fastest way to reach your destination, especially for international trips. However, flights can be an uncomfortable experience, particularly due to the cold cabin temperatures.

In this guide, I’ll outline some of the best ways to stay warm on a plane and make your journey more comfortable. As well as answer common questions such as why are aeroplanes so cold or what are cabin temperatures, so you can be best prepared for your next flight.

Why Are Planes So Cold?

Aeroplanes are typically kept cooler for several reasons:

• Cabin Temperature Control: Airlines set cabin temperatures lower to balance out the heat generated by passengers, equipment, and lighting.
• Altitude and External Air: At cruising altitude, the outside air is extremely cold. The aircraft’s ventilation system circulates some of this air, contributing to the cool environment.
• Low Humidity: The air in the cabin is dry, which can make you feel colder than you actually are.
• Health and Safety: Studies suggest that cooler cabin temperatures reduce the risk of fainting due to mild hypoxia (low oxygen levels at high altitudes).

Understanding why planes are cold helps you prepare effectively to stay warm and comfortable throughout your flight.

Tips for Staying Warm on a Flight:

1. Dress in Layers

One of the best ways to keep warm on an aeroplane is to dress in layers. The temperature in an aeroplane can fluctuate throughout the flight, making it essential to wear removable clothing.

Consider wearing:

• A moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away.
• A warm sweater, hoodie, or fleece.
• A light but insulating jacket.
• A scarf or pashmina, which can double as an extra blanket.
• A hooded fleece poncho, which can act as a cosy blanket.

Avoid overly tight clothing, as it can restrict circulation and make you feel colder.

2. Wear Warm Socks and Comfortable Shoes

Cold feet can make you feel miserable during a flight. To avoid discomfort:

• Wear thermal or fleece socks for extra warmth.
• Avoid walking around barefoot on the plane, as the floors can be quite chilly.
• Consider bringing aeroplane socks or compression socks to improve circulation and reduce swelling on long-haul flights.
• Pack a pair of slippers for extra comfort during a long flight.

3. Bring a Travel Blanket

Many airlines no longer provide blankets, or they may not be thick enough to keep you warm. A lightweight, compact travel blanket can make a big difference. Opt for one made from fleece or a thermal fabric for maximum warmth.

4. Use a Neck Pillow

A good-quality neck pillow made from memory foam or fleece can provide extra warmth while offering support for your neck and shoulders. Inflatable options are great for saving space in your carry-on.

5. Choose the Right Seat

Avoid window seats if you get cold easily – the walls of the plane can feel particularly chilly. Some passengers find that temperature on an aeroplane varies depending on where they sit. If you’re wondering “are aeroplanes cold inside?”, the answer is yes, but choosing a middle or aisle seat may help.

How to choose the right seat on an aeroplane to be comfortable and warm:

• Avoid window seats if you get cold easily – the walls of the plane can feel particularly chilly.
• Opt for a middle or aisle seat where the temperature tends to be slightly more stable.
• Select seats away from exits – exit row seats may be draftier than other areas of the plane.

6. Use a Travel Heating Pad (If Allowed)

A travel-friendly heating pad can be a great way to stay warm during a flight, especially on long-haul journeys. Some compact, battery-operated heating pads are designed for travel and can provide gentle warmth without taking up much space.

• Look for a USB-powered or rechargeable heating pad, as some airlines may not allow plug-in models.
• Check airline regulations before bringing one, as not all airlines permit heated devices.

Using a heating pad can help keep your lap, back, or hands warm while adding an extra level of comfort to your journey.

7. Stay Hydrated with Warm Drinks

Drinking warm liquids can help regulate body temperature. Ask for hot water, tea, or coffee during your flight.

Tips for staying warm with hot drinks:

• Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate provide warmth from the inside.
• Avoid excessive caffeine as it can dehydrate you.
• Bring an insulated travel mug to keep drinks warm longer.

Most airlines provide free hot drinks, but you can also bring your own herbal tea bags and ask for hot water.

8. Bring a Hot Water Bottle or Heating Patch

If space allows, consider bringing a small, collapsible hot water bottle. Some airlines will provide hot water upon request, which you can use to fill it, but check first in case they don’t allow this.

Alternatively, stick-on heating patches—such as ThermaCare heat wraps—can provide up to eight hours of warmth while you wear them. These self-heating pads adhere directly to your clothing and generate steady warmth without needing a power source, making them a convenient and airline-friendly option.

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However, always check airline regulations before bringing one in your carry-on, as policies may vary.

9. Move Around and Stretch

Sitting still for extended periods can reduce circulation, making you feel even colder. To stay warm and comfortable:

• Stretch your legs and rotate your ankles frequently.
• Walk around the cabin every few hours on long-haul flights.
• Perform seated exercises such as shoulder rolls and knee lifts to boost circulation.

10. Consider Flight Accessories for Warmth

A few extra travel accessories and clothing items can help keep you warm:

• Heated Travel Blankets: Some battery-operated blankets are airline-approved and can provide continuous warmth.
• Compression Socks: These improve circulation, which can help prevent cold feet.
• Gloves or Fingerless Mittens: If you tend to have cold hands, lightweight gloves can be useful.
• Thermal Leggings: Wearing leggings under jeans or trousers adds an extra layer of warmth.
• Thermal Vest: The same is true for a thermal vest worn under your clothing.
• Hat or Headband: A winter hat or faux-fur headband will keep your head and the rest of your body surprisingly warm.

What to Wear When Flying from Cold to Hot Climates

If you’re travelling from a cold destination to a warmer one, layering is even more important. Wear lightweight layers that you can easily remove upon arrival, such as:

• A T-shirt or vest as a base layer
• A warm but breathable jumper or hoodie
• A lightweight, packable jacket
• Comfortable, breathable shoes

To make things easier when you land, consider carrying a tote bag in your carry-on so you can quickly store extra layers once you reach a warmer climate.

You can carry flip-flops or other suitable summer shoes such as TOMS slip-ons, ready to change into when landing.

Flying from a hot country to a colder destination? The opposite approach applies—pack warm layers in your carry-on so you can bundle up before landing. A thermal top, lightweight down jacket, scarf, and gloves can make a big difference when stepping off the plane into chilly weather.

Common Questions About Aeroplane Temperatures

1. Do Aeroplanes Have Heaters?

Yes, aeroplanes have heating systems that help regulate cabin temperature. However, they are often set to lower temperatures to prevent overheating, particularly on long-haul flights.

2. What Is the Average Temperature on a Plane?

The typical cabin temperature ranges between 21°C and 24°C (70°F to 75°F), but it can feel much colder due to air circulation and low humidity.

3. Why Is It Colder on Some Flights Than Others?

Factors such as the aircraft type, the number of passengers, and flight duration can impact the cabin temperature. Some airlines maintain lower temperatures to ensure passengers stay alert and to reduce fainting risks.

Not all flights feel equally cold. You may notice differences in temperature based on:

• Aircraft type – Some planes are usually cold, while others have better insulation.
• Flight length – Short-haul flights may feel warmer as temperature control is different from long-haul flights.
• Humidity levels – Dry cabin air can make you feel colder even if the actual temperature on a plane is stable.

If you’re wondering “are planes usually hot or cold?”, the answer depends on multiple factors, but most aeroplanes tend to be on the cooler side.

4. Can I Bring a Heated Blanket or Heating Pad on a Plane?

Most airlines allow battery-operated or USB-powered heating pads and blankets, but plug-in electric heating devices may not be permitted. Always check with your airline before travelling.

5. Is It Cold on International Flights?

Many travellers worry about staying warm on long-haul and international flights. But is it cold on international flights?

• The cabin temperature on an aeroplane is usually set between 21-24°C (70-75°F).
• Some airlines keep their cabins colder to prevent overheating, while others adjust temperatures based on the number of passengers onboard.
• Overnight flights can feel colder.

6. What Temperature Is Too Cold for Planes to Fly?

While aeroplanes operate at extreme altitudes where outside temperatures drop to -50°C (-58°F), modern aircraft are designed to function in even the coldest conditions. The real concern isn’t temperature but ice accumulation on runways, which may delay flights.

Final Thoughts

Staying warm on a plane can significantly improve your in-flight comfort. By dressing in layers, wearing warm socks, using a travel blanket, and staying hydrated with warm drinks, you can avoid feeling chilly. Choosing the right seat, bringing warming heat pad if allowed, and moving around can also make a big difference.

With the right preparation, you can enjoy a comfortable and cosy flight, no matter how cold the aeroplane cabin gets.

Share Your Experience – How Do You Stay Warm on a Plane?

Every traveller has their own tips and tricks for staying warm on a plane. Some people swear by thermal socks and layers, while others bring their own travel blanket or heating patches.

• Have you ever been on a particularly cold flight?
• Do you have a favourite travel accessory that keeps you warm?
• Have you found that certain airlines or aircraft types are colder than others?

I’d love to hear from you! Share your experiences in the comments—your insights could help fellow travellers stay warm on their next flight.