Plus Size Travel Tips: Your Complete Guide to Comfortable & Confident Adventures
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Travel should be exciting, but if you live in a plus size body, you know it can also come with extra considerations. From airplane seat sizes to hotel amenities that don’t always fit to finding comfortable clothing and accessories for long days of exploring - there’s a lot to think about.
That’s why I put together my ultimate plus size travel tips guide to help you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to explore without letting anxiety get in the way. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend trip or an international adventure, these tips will help you focus less on logistics and more on the experiences you deserve.
1. Airplane Seats & Airline Policies for Plus Size Travelers
Finding the right airline can make or break your comfort on a flight. While trains and buses can sometimes offer more space, planes are often the trickiest.
My go-to: Southwest Airlines.
Here’s why Southwest is a plus size traveler’s best friend:
Seat width: 17 inches between armrests.
Customer of Size Policy: You can purchase a second seat in advance for more space, and Southwest will refund the cost after your trip.
Guaranteed comfort: No hoping for an empty middle seat — you can secure your comfort before you fly.
Preboarding: Southwest allows “customers of size” to preboard so you can get settled without stress.
Booking tip: If you call Southwest directly, mention the Customer of Size Policy. They’ll help you get the lowest possible fare for that extra seat, so you’re not waiting on a bigger refund later.
2. Seat Belt Extenders - No Shame, Just Comfort
Let’s normalize this: seat belt extenders are there for a reason. If you need one, ask — flight attendants are used to it and won’t blink twice.
Your options:
Ask onboard: Simply say, “Can I get a seat belt extender, please?” when boarding.
Bring your own: If you’d rather avoid asking, you can purchase FAA-approved seat belt extenders online. (Use at your own risk - pls don’t sue me if the seatbelt isn’t approved by your airline)
Remember: You paid for your seat. You have every right to feel safe and secure in it.
3. Handling Stares or Judgment While Traveling
This one’s mental, not physical - but it’s huge.
It can feel intimidating to explore new places when you’re worried about how others will see you. Here’s my truth:
Most people are too focused on themselves to care.
Your size does not diminish your right to enjoy every second of your trip.
Adventures like ziplining, snorkeling, or hiking are for you too.
If someone does stare, remember: their opinion is none of your business.
Pro tip: When traveling abroad, the bigger “issue” people may have is that you’re American - not your body. Soak in the culture, have the experiences, and let go of the rest.
4. Plus Size Travel Essentials for All-Day Comfort
Comfort is key when traveling, especially when weather and activity levels change. I never leave home without:
Anti-Chafing & Sweat Solutions
Megababe Thigh Rescue: Life-changing for chafing prevention. Comes in regular and travel size.
Megababe Bust Dust: Keeps underboob sweat under control.
Skin Hydration
Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask: Perfect for flights - keeps skin hydrated when cabin air dries it out.
Footwear
Wide-width sneakers: Essential for long walking days; choose styles with cushioned soles.
Extra Comfort
Gel-padded seat cushion: Turns any seat (plane, bus, café) into a comfort zone.
Adjustable fanny pack: Chic, hands-free, and size-inclusive.
5. Hotel Amenities - Think Ahead for a Better Stay
Here’s the truth: most hotels stock towels and robes that are… not plus size friendly.
Before You Arrive:
Call the hotel and ask if they have larger towels or robes for guests.
Some boutique hotels will accommodate - but you won’t know unless you ask.
Bring Your Own Comfort:
Oversized Towel: No more drying off with a scrap of cloth.
Plus size robes: Choose one that goes up to at least a size 30W for comfort.
Slippers: Perfect for relaxing while protecting you from the dirty floor.
6. Navigating Walking Tours & Physical Activities
If your trip includes a lot of walking or excursions, these tips will keep you comfortable:
Wear breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics (avoid 100% cotton in heat).
Choose supportive footwear with arch support.
Pack anti-chafe balm and reapply midday if needed.
Take short breaks - café stops double as rest time and local experiences.
7. Mindset: Owning Your Plus Size Travel Experience
Traveling while plus size can feel intimidating at first - but your body is not a limitation, it’s the vessel that carries you to amazing experiences.
You deserve to take up space.
You deserve comfort.
You deserve adventure.
Say yes to the tour. Book the flight. Buy the cute dress for dinner in Paris. This is your life to live fully.
Final Thoughts on Plus Size Travel Tips
The best plus size travel tip I can give you is this: plan ahead for comfort, but don’t let preparation turn into hesitation. Every single traveler faces challenges — ours just happen to be a little more physical sometimes.
When you know how to navigate flights, hotels, and excursions with ease, you remove barriers between you and your dream trip.
Want even more plus size travel tips? Check out:
Amazon Travel Must Haves: The Best Finds for Stress-Free Trips
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Now go forth, take the trip, and live your best life, Fly Friend!