CELEBRITIES
Simone Biles Spills Her 7 Travel Must-haves — From Her Go-to Airplane Outfit to a Surprising $24 Pick
Fresh off her incredible four-gold-medal win at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Simone Biles is back with something exciting for fans: the Athleta x Simone Biles collection, a limited-edition curation of the brand’s best-selling, high-performing activewear and accessories designed to inspire and empower.
The lineup is packed with stylish and versatile pieces, including cozy joggers, a sleek bomber jacket, and a must-have belt bag (because who doesn’t love a hands-free moment?). With prices ranging from $28 to $199, it offers a little something for everyone, whether you’re gearing up for a workout or jetting off on your next adventure.
“[Athleta and I] both deeply care about empowering women and the next generation of female athletes,” Biles, who has been a partner with the brand since 2021, exclusively shared with Travel + Leisure. “I really wanted to create something for both women and girls — something that feels timeless, not just a fleeting trend.”
Below, we caught up with Biles to learn more about her favorite pieces from the collection and her travel non-negotiables, including her go-to leggings for travel, her favorite lip balm to apply on the go, and a few other essentials she swears by on the road.
When dressing for the airport, Biles said she reaches for the Athleta Elation 7/8 Tights, saying they are “go-to for travel, especially during Athleta’s Power of She Gold Over America Tour,” which kicked off earlier in October. These versatile leggings transition seamlessly from workout wear to casual, everyday bottoms, and their comfortable, three-layer waistband with mesh lining provides all-day support and comfort when you’re on the move.
Next, Biles added that she loves to pair her favorite leggings with a cozy top and Athleta’s Sateen Bomber Jacket, noting it’s a perfect option “in case [she] gets chilly.” This bomber is ideal for transitional weather and travel, with secure zip pockets and a stylish, oversized fit that works well over everything from workout gear to cozy sweats.
Another comfy airport outfit option is the Athleta Forever Fleece Joggers. According to Biles, they are a must for staying “cozy” on the go. These sweatpants come in an array of fall shades and feature a plush, stretch fleece material with a soft, brushed interior that provides warmth without overheating.
To achieve the effortlessly stylish matching set look, Biles said she likes to wear the Forever Fleece Sweatshirt with the joggers, calling it her go-to travel uniform. Made from the same cozy material as the joggers, the sweatshirt is easy to mix and match with other pieces in your suitcase like jeans and trousers, ensuring your travel wardrobe is both comfortable and complete.
To complete both looks, Biles explained that she’ll usually tie everything together with a trusty travel bag. “I love traveling with a belt bag,” Biles shared with T+L. “It’s perfect for keeping my phone, wallet, and ID handy, so I’m obsessed with the All About Shine Puff Large Belt Bag.” Whether you’re navigating the airport, exploring a new city, or heading to a workout, this hands-free bag keeps your belongings safe and close by, while ensuring you still look fabulous.
Also on Biles’ must-haves list? Headphones, of course. “I absolutely must have my noise-canceling headphones on me at all times,” Biles admitted. She’s often seen wearing Apple AirPods Pro 2 while traveling, and they’re perfect for tuning out background noise during flights. With over 6,700 five-star ratings on Amazon, these headphones are a fan-favorite pair for good reason.
For her final travel non-negotiable, Biles said the Summer Fridays Lip Balm is the real GOAT. Its ultra-hydrating formula leaves your lips feeling soft and hydrated, whether you’re on a flight, heading to bed, or applying it throughout the day. I have to agree — it’s an essential travel beauty product that works wonders in seconds. And, it smells like yummy vanilla.
Hold on, more comfortable clothes await! Keep scrolling to explore the other travel-ready styles from the Athleta x Simone Biles collection that will make perfect additions to your fall wardrobe.