Buying guide
For long-haul flights, pack double-layer muslin cotton in easy on-off styles: a romper or onesie for quick changes, cozy pajamas for sleeping, and a muslin towel as a light cover. Muslin's open weave stays breathable in a stuffy cabin and it's already soft from the pre-wash, so it feels good against skin for hours.
By Vanessa & Bob, Epic in Bali · Updated 15 July 2026
Vanessa and I have flown with our kids more times than we can count, and the right layers make a long flight easier for everyone. Muslin works well in a cabin because it breathes and it's already soft before it ever reaches you. Here's what we'd actually pack.
Easy snaps make diaper changes fast in a cramped airplane bathroom, and the loose weave keeps them from overheating during a long sit.
A simple base layer that's soft against skin for hours, good on its own or under something warmer if the cabin runs cold.
Loose and comfortable for sitting strapped into a car seat or carrier, and easy to layer over a onesie if the plane feels cold.
What we pack for overnight flights, comfortable enough to actually sleep in and simple to change into once you're settled.
Doubles as a light cover for nap time when the cabin air gets cold, and folds down small in the bag.
On its own it's lightweight, so we layer it, a onesie under pants or pajamas, plus a muslin towel as a light cover if needed.
Muslin creases easily, that's normal for the fabric. A quick shake out or a few minutes on low heat after landing smooths it back out.