Denied entry to airport lounge for wearing snow boots? Travel expert reveals the truth — these shoes may also be deemed unacceptable

Cold front alert: When traveling abroad to enjoy snow, many people wear snow boots to keep warm in winter. But those planning to visit Australia should take note — don’t wear snow boots inside local airport lounges. British pop singer Joanne Catherall was recently denied access to the business lounge while flying to Australia for a concert tour. The reason? She was wearing UGG snow boots. Travel expert 943 also raised the issue on Facebook, pointing out that in Australia, UGG boots are considered “indoor shoes.” Other netizens also revealed that the popular “Birkenstock sandals” are seen as “indoor slippers” in Germany.

British electronic music singer Joanne Catherall was denied entry to the Qantas business lounge at Melbourne Airport while wearing UGG snow boots. (Composite image, sourced from Joanne Catherall’s Twitter)

British electronic music singer Joanne Catherall posted on her Twitter on the 14th that she was recently on tour in Australia. When she tried to enter the Qantas business lounge for a flight from Melbourne to Sydney, she was denied access by Qantas staff because her fluffy UGG snow boots were considered “indoor shoes” by the airline. She was even advised by staff to buy suitable new shoes at the store.

Why was Catherall asked to leave by Qantas staff? This actually stems from a Qantas policy dating back to 2015. According to news reports, starting April 1, 2015, passengers wishing to use Qantas lounges in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth, and Adelaide must wear “smart casual attire.” If their clothing is too casual, Qantas employees may deny them lounge access.

This incident sparked widespread discussion globally. 943, who travels abroad dozens of times a year and has authored multiple travel books, also shared his thoughts on Facebook. 943 mentioned that he had heard from Australian friends years ago that snow boots are indoor footwear in Australia. Australians find it strange when foreign tourists wear what they consider “indoor shoes” outdoors. However, UGG boots are a well-known local product in Australia, and in recent years, many Taiwanese travelers have even gone to Australia specifically to “buy in bulk.” Interestingly, some Australians pronounce UGG as “oog.”

A netizen commented that the popular “Birkenstock sandals” worn by many Taiwanese are also considered indoor slippers in Germany. (Image provided by Getty Images / Shutterstock)

943’s post on Facebook also drew many comments. In the eyes of Australians, UGG snow boots are 100% indoor shoes. One commenter said they were previously stopped by locals for wearing UGGs inside an Australian casino. Another noted that the popular “Birkenstock sandals” worn by Taiwanese are also considered indoor slippers in Germany.

943 advised that airport lounges around the world have specific dress codes, which should also take into account local culture and customs. Outlandish outfits should be avoided. Additionally, one should not disturb others in the lounge — being too loud can also get you asked to leave.