Comfortable face masks for travel

Nov 25, 2023

By Lauren Burvill

2022 is set to be the year travel gets back to a new normal – and part of that new normal will be the continuation of face masks when flying and abroad. If you haven't purchased a face mask since the flimsy reusable fabric styles you bought back in 2020, now is the time to upgrade, especially if you are planning on boarding a flight this year. Here we break down everything you need to know about face masks for travel, plus the most comfortable and safest styles on the market.

It depends which airline and where you're flying to. From March 16, passengers are no longer required to wear masks at London Heathrow, although they are still recommended, while passengers will only be required to wear masks onboard British Airways and Virgin Atlantic if their arrival destination requires it. For example, you won't need to wear a mask if you're flying to the USA, but you will be required to wear one if you're flying to Singapore. If you're flying with Emirates, you will still be required to wear a mask on the flight and within Dubai International Airport. These rules vary between airlines and destinations, and may also be set to change in the future, so we recommend always checking with your airline and bringing a mask with you just in case.

It depends on the airline. Face coverings such as scarves and bandanas aren't permitted, and some airlines such as Air France have policies against cloth masks or masks with air holes. Before you fly, always check with your airline to find out what you need to wear for your flight.

In terms of getting the most protection, the type of face mask recommended by the world's health organisations has changed. When the pandemic first hit the UK in 2020, the public was asked to avoid using surgical masks in order to keep them reserved for essential workers. Instead the public were encouraged to wear reusable fabric face masks. Since then the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) in the US now advises swapping fabric styles for masks certified at an approved health standard.

These masks are known as N95 face masks in the US, while the European certified equivalent are known as FFP2 masks, which are also available in the UK. These certified masks come with instructions on how to wear them by the manufacturer and feature multiple layers of non-woven material and a nose wire to ensure a proper fit with no leaks. What sets these certified masks apart from the standard fabric masks, is that the fabric used actually filters out 95 per cent of airborne particles while still remaining breathable.

But regardless of the type of mask you prefer to wear, the key to getting the most protection is in the fit (ensuring there are no gaps or leaks) and comfort level. According to the CDC, ‘it is most important to wear a well-fitted mask or respirator correctly that is comfortable for you and that provides good protection.’ So the mask you’re most likely to comfortably wear throughout the flight is what you should focus on.

FFP2 mask pack of 20, £16.99

According to IATA the risk of COVID transmission in a modern cabin environment is relatively low due to a number of factors like passengers facing the same direction, and the fact that cabin air is refreshed 20-30 times an hour (about ten times more than most office buildings). And while this does offer some peace of mind, it's still important to not just wear a mask to comply with airline requirements, but also one that will give you protection throughout the flight. In this case, FFP2 masks are the safest option. If you’re set to travel on a flight longer than four hours, some airlines recommend bringing a couple of masks to wear, so a multipack of FFP2 masks, such as the Amazon bestselling FFP2 mask pack of 20, is an ideal option. I've tried and tested this style and find the 3D structure great for breathing space while the metal clip along the bridge of the nose can be easily moulded and adjusted to the shape of your face so it feels secure. Each mask also comes with a plastic tension hook, for those that need to make the straps tighter.

The Body Doctor AB Mask Ear Saver, £3.50

Ideal for a long haul flight, this mask ear saver is designed to relieve the painful ear pressure that can come from prolonged mask-wearing. Simply attach it to the ear loops of any traditional face mask and then place the AB Mask Ear Saver around the back of your head.

Masks with a contoured shape, such as AIRPOP pocket reusable mask, £11.99

If you’re planning a weekend away that's going to involve public transport, taxis, shopping or museums, you’re going to need to pack a couple of face masks. For a style that's comfortable to wear off-and-on throughout the day, look for masks with a contoured shape, especially if you’re a glasses wearer and keen to avoid the dreaded glasses fog. This is a key feature of the AIRPOP pocket style reusable mask, which is contoured around the face so the mask doesn't touch your mouth, and features a foam seal across the bridge of the nose to ensure a snug fit. Sold in a pack of two, each mask will continue to perform at high efficiency for at least 40 hours when properly cleaned and maintained.

Uniqlo Airism mask, pack of 3, £9.90

A great everyday option, this fabric mask is made of three layers including a layer of AIRism mesh fabric for better breathability and comfort. The mask comes in three sizes, including a small size which are suitable for children.

FP2 masks with adjustable straps, such as PurifyLabs face masks, £9.99

Protection has been the key focus when it comes to the new standard for face masks. Sizing, however, hasn't always kept up. If you struggle with sore ears from the elastic straps, or just generally find it hard to get the right fit, masks like the PurifyLabs FFP2 face mask from Lloyds Pharmacy offer the certified level of protection as well as adjustable straps and a moulded nose bridge. Available as a pack of 5 for £9.99 or a pack of 10 for £15.49, the price runs a lot higher than standard ones on the market, but for the adjustable comfort and softer fabric, it may be worth it.

Masuku One Face Mask, £39

If you’re willing to spend a little more money to get the right fit, then Masuku's One Face Mask could be the one for you. The contoured shape, stitch-free seams, adjustable straps and two size options all add up to getting a snug and comfortable fit.

A light sports mask, such as UA Sportsmask featherweight, £26

We know Covid cases rise in winter, but there's still a need to protect yourself even in warmer temperatures. If you’re set to travel to somewhere hot and humid, there are reusable face masks that can offer protection while still feeling comfortable. Many athletic brands have designed masks to be worn while running or playing a sport, ideal for wearing outside in hot and humid weather. Under Armour have a few options available, most notably their UA Sportsmask which is designed specifically for hot conditions, and is made from lightweight, breathable knit fabric with a water-resistant outer layer.

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