Traveling While Tall

Hey Tall Girl!

I travel a LOT during the summer; family trips, work trips, with dogs, without dogs, driving, flying (both) and even pulling a trailer. While I personally think that roadtrips in my own vehicles are the easiest (I can bring all my own things, clothes, extras, just-in-case-gear, and as many bags as I want). Flying is different; first off, I hate checking a bag, doesn't matter how long I'm gone or what the event, I always like having my things with me at all times. With a trip to Europe on the horizon, I'm planning for everything from hiking in the drizzly rain in Scotland to a cocktail wedding in the humidity and heat of the South of France. People often joke about how lucky I must be to see concerts or grab things off high shelves, but when it comes to traveling, the highs and lows are very real.I have made a list of the things I have to pay attention to while traveling tall. Some of my favorite things and some of my biggest gripes. Traveling as a tall person comes with a pretty mixed bag of realities. 

Let’s start with the pros, because there actually are a few. First off, I never have to wait for someone to help me lift my bag into the overhead bin. I’ve got the reach and the leverage, and I don’t need to do that awkward ask for assistance. It’s a small thing, but it adds a little bit of independence to air travel, which already feels like a whole production.

Another unexpected perk? I can see. Like, really see. In crowds, at events, even on busy sidewalks in unfamiliar cities—I can usually spot a landmark or street sign above the sea of heads and make my way with a bit more confidence. It’s not something you think about until you realize not everyone can navigate a foreign city without constantly pulling out their phone or getting turned around.

And then there’s the safety factor. I don’t take it for granted that my height gives me an edge here. I walk with a bit more authority, I go for a solo run without hesitation. And in many cities, that alone helps me feel safer than I might otherwise. I know not everyone has that luxury, and I try to stay aware of that privilege.

But of course, it’s not all tall glory. Airplane and train seats? Nightmare. My knees are usually jammed against the seat in front of me, and unless I score the exit row, I spend the ride doing weird contortions just to get a little relief. And because my head hits above the headrest, exactly the wrong spot, I end up doing this weird bobble-head thing trying to nap.

Then there’s the whole travel wardrobe situation. Finding easy, breezy travel clothes that actually fit and flatter is tough. I want comfortable and cute, think colorful, natural fabric with ruffles, not shapeless, black or cropped. If anyone has recommendations on colorful, slightly blousy, maybe linen shirts that actually hit below the waistband—I’m all ears. Seriously, send help. 

Rolling luggage isn’t always my best friend either. So many handles are just slightly too short, so I end up hunched over like some kind of giant travel goblin weaving through the airport. And don’t get me started on shoes. My shoes take up so much space in my bag that packing light becomes almost impossible. I’ve honestly thought about mailing my shoes ahead before a trip, and I've definitely left shoes behind if I think they've lived a full life and I need space in my bag.

Here are a couple tips for those who struggle like I do;

1-Find one or two outfits you love that travel well, and take them on every trip. I have a couple dresses that I simply love and they pack shockingly well. I also have one pair of pants that aren't black or navy and they are always in my suitcase. 

2-Invest in a piece of luggage that fits everything. A quality rolling bag, or backpack is everything. Knowing you can fit all your clothes, and that you won't be reaching to your knees to get the handle goes a long way to reducing stress while traveling. I have started using a backpack that has compartments and while I am jealous of my husbands rolling bag, I do love my pack and take it everywhere. (It has a zipper compartment that fits two pair of my size 12 shoes and keeps them away from my clothes, which I LOVE!)

3-You never know where or when you will find a piece of clothing that you love. I found my favorite travel pants in Sweden, while looking for kids clothes! And I love looking for boutique shops because,  inevitably, I find clothes that are super long that would never fit anyone shorter than 5'9". So, keep an open mind!

Still, I’ve learned to travel with my height instead of against it. I bring what I know works, I stretch in the airport terminal like a weirdo, and I embrace the little advantages where I can find them. Being tall isn’t always convenient, and I fully lean into the fact that being tall isn’t always convenient—but it can be quietly powerful in ways that matter.

Safe travels and share your tips!

Send us an email or head to Instagram to share YOUR tips and tricks for traveling while tall!

Cheerfully,

Suzi