Business class pyjamas: should airlines offer this travel perk?

What is the etiquette when wearing sleepwear on the plane, can you wear your own or another airline if they are not provided? And should they be worn out in public?

Anything that helps you get sleep on a plane is welcome.

A colleague of mine recently went on an overnight business class flight to London and was dismayed that there were no pyjamas to change into so she could sleep. It set off a furious discussion in the office about the etiquette surrounding sleepwear on a plane.

Should airlines provide it? If airlines don’t provide it, can you bring and wear the pyjamas of a rival airline? Is it acceptable to change into normal pyjamas on a plane? Is it OK to walk around in flannelette pyjamas and Uggs?

What is appropriate sleep attire on a plane?

I still remember the first time I travelled business class for work and was given the sleepwear by the attendant. I was hesitant to change as I was surrounded by suited businessmen and it felt rather formal.

I put them below my feet and continued working on my laptop until I saw everyone around me progressively change into their pyjamas. They were not only relaxing in their seats but getting a drink at the bar at the back of the plane and walking around chatting to staff.

It was clear that I was the only one who felt awkward in sleepwear in front of total strangers so I changed and became a convert. They are very comfortable, especially when trying to get some sleep on a long-haul flight.

Emirates Business Class pjyamas available on select long haul flights.

Most airlines now have pyjamas and they have become quite the status symbol, with even fashion designers getting involved. Emirates first class has what they claim is the world’s first “moisturising sleepwear”, with shea butter and argan oil in the fabric. On Japan Airlines, they offer not only organic cotton “relaxing wear” but cardigans if you get cold on board.

And then there is Qantas. While most other airlines refrain from any branding, there is no mistaking the Qantas business class pyjamas with the logo front and centre. Which leads me to the next pyjama etiquette question: what happens after the flight? Should you take them off the plane and wear them again? And should they be worn in public?

Qantas first and business class pyjamas should not be seen in public.

It turns out there have been many sightings of Qantas pyjamas out in the wild; from people running in the tops in Sydney’s inner city to friends donning them on holiday to impress others. But the resounding answer to anyone I ask this question is “NO!!!” and I tend to agree. No matter how good the business class pyjamas are, they belong only on the plane.

What do you think? Comment below.

If you love to travel, sign up to our free weekly Travel + Luxury newsletter here.