This is the type of sandal you should not choose to wear on a plane.

Flip flops or flip flops are a must-have for any beach vacation—but think twice before wearing them to the airport.

While convenient, flip-flops should generally be left on the shelf until you arrive at your destination. Flip-flops and open-toed shoes may be comfortable, but they're a bad idea on an airplane.

Safety first priority

In an emergency, however rare, flip-flops can slow you down or leave you unprotected. For safety reasons, flip-flops are not practical in an emergency and can limit your speed. Closed-toed shoes or flats are much safer.

During an air evacuation , flip-flops can slip off your feet, forcing you to leave them behind or slow down to retrieve them. Plus, in those situations, you'll want to protect your toes from debris and other hazards.

Comfortable throughout the flight

Aside from safety concerns, comfort is also important. Airplane cabins can be cold, and flip-flops offer little protection. Not only will exposing your toes to the cold will make you colder, but it will also leave your feet vulnerable to accidental injury from other passengers.

In narrow aisles, people can trip over each other and roll luggage over their toes without even realizing it. These are painful accidents that are made worse when your feet are not properly protected.

Infection from the toilet

Airplane bathrooms are notoriously difficult to keep clean, and the floors are often wet. Flip flops offer minimal protection and often lack grip, meaning your feet can come into contact with unsanitary surfaces that have been used by many previous passengers.

Alternatives to flip flops

Instead of risking your safety and comfort, opt for closed-toe shoes that can be easily removed at security while still providing full protection for your feet. Sneakers, loafers, or supportive flats offer the best combination of safety, comfort, and convenience for air travel.

Micah Soto

Update 14 October 2025