best black travel jacket

Ultimate Guide To the Best Travel Jacket for Women

FASHION , Sweaters & Jackets , Travel Clothing

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On the hunt for a reliable, lightweight women’s jacket for travel ? This comprehensive guide covers tips and top picks for the best travel jacket for any season or scenario—read on to find out what jacket is best to bring with you!

Best Travel Jacket Women Pack for All Seasons

Table of contents.

No matter where you’re headed; a solid travel jacket is an absolute must. But the style, weight, and other features will depend on the time of year, destination, and activities planned. Take a look at our ultimate guide to the best womens travel jacket , as well as a list of readers’ all-time favorite brands and styles! 

How to Choose the Best Travel Jackets for Women

Readers say the Eddie Bauer Waterproof Charly Jacket has durable but lightweight fabric

While a jacket may look really cute, you’ll need to make sure it’s made of the right fabric to keep you warm and protected from the elements. 

Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are fantastic materials for travel jackets, as they’re made to be extremely durable yet lightweight, breathable, and comfy. They pack well, won’t wrinkle, and are overall super low maintenance yet highly practical. They’re also water-resistant, and many nylon or polyester options will be made to be fully waterproof, so if you’re traveling to a rainy destination, these kinds of materials are ideal.

The Columbia Carson Pass II Winter Jacket has warmth without the bulk! (Read our review of this jacket)

If you’re heading to a cold climate, you might want to look for these materials, too, but in a puffer style, which adds cozy insulation. You could also opt for a wool coat for your winter travels. Wool is a fantastic material that’s super soft, warm, breathable, and great at regulating your temperature so you won’t overheat, will keep you feeling dry and fresh and looks super chic! 

If you’re traveling to a warmer climate, you’ll want to keep things lightweight with fabrics like cotton, rayon, or polyester. A jean jacket, a sweatshirt, or a light trench coat are some of the best lightweight jacket women’s styles that’ll give you that extra bit of warmth without being too hot or bulky. 

Read this post on how to pack winter jackets in your luggage!

The North Face Thermoball Packable Down Jacket ( Plus Size )  has exterior pockets and a zippered hidden pocket inside!

Organizational Pockets

While you’re out seeing the sights and adventuring at your destination, keeping your travel essentials organized and accessible is important. Even with a great travel purse, there are some things you may want to have at the ready, stored in a secure travel jacket pocket . There may also be those days when you want to travel light and not carry a bag. 

So, when searching for the perfect travel jacket, keep those pockets in mind! Look for pockets that have some sort of zippered or button closure, and bonus points for hidden pockets or interior pockets! That way, your belongings are kept extra safe from pickpocketing or simply falling out. 

This Icebreaker Hoodie has zippered pockets and internal ones to hold items!

Having a travel jacket with hidden pockets is super convenient for storing your phone, as it’ll be out of sight when not in use but can be grabbed in a flash to snap that perfect photo. Secure jacket pockets are also great for storing things like your cash, credit cards, or hotel access card. Close to your body and easy to reach, you’ll be able to check in on these items and make sure they’re safe and sound throughout the day. 

Outer pockets are handy for those less valuable but still important essentials like lip balm, sunglasses, or gloves.

The Quince Water-Resistant Trench is classic and perfect for Europe!

There are SO many great styles of lightweight women’s jackets to choose from that are functional for travel, from leather jackets to trench coats to down parkas. 

Readers share their go-to’s. One says, “I have several trench coats I travel with. They are great three seasons of the year and are adjustable to all kinds of weather.” Another reader shares, “I am loving my rain jacket that I just got! Cuts the wind, can layer if needed, and is cute.” And another TFG reports, “I like traveling with a leather jacket and a lightweight puffer with a hood to go over it. That way, if it’s a little warmer in the afternoon, the leather jacket is enough. The puffer can live in its own compressed bag for easy traveling.” 

A trendy Faux-Leather Jacket can add chic and edge to a plain outfit!

For fall, faux-leather jackets make a great alternative to a wool or trench. Denim jackets are amazing options for spring and summer travels or layering with sweaters in the fall. Fleece jackets and hoodies are easy to pack and are perfect for layering under a heavier coat or wearing over a tee on a brisk morning.  

Because you’ll likely only bring one or two jackets along, they need to be the most versatile item! Look for something that not only meets your needs in terms of weather and activities but also that you’ll want to wear repeatedly and that you’ll be happy seeing in your photos!

Take a look at more of the best travel jacket women’s styles here !

The Ibex Merino Wool Aire Jacket packs small into its own interior chest pocket and is warm but lightweight—I take it with me everywhere!

Packability

When it comes to packability, a lightweight women’s jackets for travelling that are easy to store is ideal, but that definitely doesn’t mean you should skimp on warmth or comfort! In winter, to save weight without compromising warmth, opt for insulated jackets made of down or down-alternative, which weigh very little but will keep you toasty.  

Most readers like to make it easy by wearing their heaviest jacket on the flight and packing any additional jackets in their luggage. This is especially useful if you need to bring along a parka or some type of winter coat. Plus, boarding with a big, cozy jacket makes a great blanket or pillow, and it’ll be ready to snuggle into when you land at your destination. 

If you want to pack a jacket in your luggage, a packing cube will help you save tons of space in your suitcase by compressing your clothes. And as a bonus, it’ll keep it folded neatly and looking nice when you pull it out!

This Outdoor Ventures Fleece-Lined Jacket has a detachable hood and adjustable waistband and hem!

Extra Features

Other features you’ll want to look for in a lightweight jacket for travel are versatile and timeless styles that will not only go with all of your clothing options, but that’s something you’ll love wearing for years to come. You’ll also want to go for fabrics that are easy to clean and care for. And wrinkle-free materials or materials that easily shake out and look presentable are a huge plus when traveling, as well. 

If you need a waterproof travel jacket , make sure that not only will the shell repel water but that the jacket has waterproof seams and sealed cuffs so that bits of water don’t trickle in throughout the day. 

Removable and adjustable features are always a plus, too. A hood will be super cozy on a rainy or windy day, but it’s nice to have the option of taking off in milder weather. An adjustable waist or a removable belt is also a plus, as they can give you the perfect, customized fit, either adding a feminine shape or allowing for extra room when layering. 

Find out our stylish strategies on how to layer clothes for winter !

Check weather conditions before traveling! Wearing Sherpa Fleece ( similar ) in nippy fall weather

Other Factors When Selecting a Travel Jacket Womens Style

Another major factor to consider when planning which womens travel jackets to pack is, of course, the weather at your destination. You should always be sure to check the weather forecast leading up to your trip so you can know roughly what temperatures and conditions to expect. That way, you’ll be prepared for unexpected rain showers on a summer’s day in NYC or an unexpectedly warm week on a fall trip to London. 

Also, consider your activities. One reader makes a great point, sharing, “If you’re walking around in the sun on a cold day, a light puffer jacket may be fine. But if you’re sitting in the shade watching a sporting event for several hours, you will need more than that.” Another says that choosing a jacket “depends on the occasion or activity, not just the temperature. At 50 degrees, I might be in a denim jacket, a leather jacket, a long open coat, or just a cardigan. If I’m hiking, it’d be a mid-layer with a rain jacket in my backpack.” 

The SCOTTeVest Chloe Hoodie has 14 hidden pockets!

Another thing to consider is the destination and whether theft is a concern there. If you’re traveling to a city where pickpocketing is more common, you may want to consider a jacket with anti-theft features, like hidden pockets. One reader agrees, saying, “We’ve been using the SCOTTeVEST jackets  with lots of pockets for several years for the flights over and back from trips. Wallets, passports, phone, and any foreign currency we’re carrying all go in it, and it isn’t really bulky or heavy. We more comfortable knowing that the really important stuff isn’t going to be left behind or stolen.” 

Here’s a roundup of the best money belts for travel so you can theft-proof your gear!

Now that we’ve covered the how-to’s, take a look at this huge round-up of the best travel jacket for any type of weather or scenario you might encounter! 

Best Travel Jacket With Pockets

Multi pocket travel jackets , especially those with interior pockets, are incredibly useful for anti-theft purposes. If you need to walk around with your passport, whether going through an airport, crossing a border, or to use as an ID, jackets with a lot of pockets , including secure interior pockets, are a fantastic option to keep it close by and safe. 

And the same goes for other valuables like cash and cards. Not to mention the convenience of having your other essentials extra accessible!

We’ve featured the top three jackets with pockets, but take a look at more clothing options with hidden pockets here ! 

Shop Sizes S-XXL: SCOTTeVEST | Amazon

SCOTTeVEST Rhonda Multi Pocket Travel Jacket  

This SCOTTeVEST all in one travel jacket has a chic and classic exterior, and you’d never guess that the interior boasts an impressive 20 hidden pockets! The most stylish jacket with the most pockets , readers say it’s incredibly useful, as the anti-theft pockets are variously sized and thoughtfully placed, making for a safe and organized journey. The fabric is water-repellent yet breathable and easy to care for, and it has a super comfy fit and feel! Comes in sizes S-XXL !

Shop Sizes XS-4XL: Amazon

Outdoor Ventures Multi Pocket Jacket for Travelling

Stay warm and cozy in this Outdoor Ventures lightweight travel jacket women’s style , which has two exterior pockets and two interior pockets, both roomy, convenient, and secure! It has a long length for added warmth and wind protection, a zip-off hood, and an insulated yet breathable lining. The drawcord waist allows for a feminine shape, plus it comes in a wide range of colors and has an overall simple and versatile look that you can style up as you please! Comes in sizes XS-4XL !

Shop Sizes XS-5XL: SCOTTeVEST | Amazon

SCOTTeVEST Windbreaker

If you’re wanting something on the lighter side that still offers plenty of organization, go for this SCOTTeVEST women travel jacket ! While slim and lightweight, it has a whopping 19 pockets to store your essentials. It’s water-repellent, breathable, and durable, and will look just as great on a hike as it will exploring a city! Comes in sizes XS-5XL !

Best Travel Rain Jacket

The best women’s travel jacket for rainy destinations will combine stellar waterproofing (including sealed seams, cuffs, and zippers, and functional hoods) with breathability and comfort. While you want be fully protected from the elements, you’ll also want to be able to move freely and feel cozy inside. Lightweight rain jackets are always a plus, as they’re easy to pack and travel with, and they can be layered depending on the temperature!

The three most popular rain jackets can be found below, and if you want more comfy, cute, and packable rain jackets, find them here !  

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Eddie Bauer

Eddie Bauer Charly Jacket

This Eddie Bauer travel jacket is the Editor’s top pick as well as a major reader favorite for rainy-day travel! It has a great fit that allows for plenty of movement, blocks the wind and rain remarkably well, features plenty of pockets (including a secure interior pocket!), and is overall a high-quality and long-lasting pick.  

As a bonus, it has a fashionable, polished look to it, and the cinch-able waist will counter any bulkiness, keeping a feminine shape! This is available in regular ( XS to XXL ), petite ( XS-XL ), tall ( S-XXL ), and plus sizes ( 1X-3X ). Don’t forget to look at our full review here ! 

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Amazon | Columbia

Columbia Arcadia II Jacket

Columbia does outdoor gear right, and readers have been loving this Arcadia II lightweight travel jacket womens pick as a simple, cute, and quality option to take to rainy destinations. It’s lightweight and not bulky, but the fabric is extremely durable, protective, and comfy to wear. Readers love the fact that it can pack down into a teeny pouch the size of your hand, so you’ll be able to bring this jacket everywhere and be ready if a sudden downpour hits!  

Grab this in sizes XS-3XL , and choose from a TON of cute colors, too, both neutral and bright!

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Amazon

Cole Haan Packable Travel Jacket

Packability is a major consideration when it comes to travel, which is why this Cole Haan traveling jacket is a particular favorite of TFG readers. Comfy and efficient, this jacket has a chic silhouette, accentuated with a cute little bow in the back that can be adjusted for a slightly cinched-in fit. It has a removable hood, multiple pockets, and nearly fits into a build-in pouch that you can carry with you in your day bag! 

Comes in sizes XS-3XL .

Best Travel Winter Jacket

One thing that’s sure to ruin your winter vacation is being cold the whole time! When deciding on the best travel coat womens style, finding something that looks great and is easy to pack or carry is important, but the most crucial thing is that it’ll keep you warm. 

In fact, with the right insulation, your pick doesn’t need to be overly bulky or heavy. Down jackets are particularly popular with readers, as they can compress but offer tons of cozy warmth! 

Three of the best winter jackets are featured here, but you can see more reader-fave winter parkas here !

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Amazon

Columbia Carson Pass Interchange Jacket

Editor’s pick alert! The Columbia Carson Pass Interchange black travel jacket is one of the best jackets for travel in the winter, perfect for keeping you dry and warm as can be in any cold destination! 

It’ll offer plenty of mobility, so it’s great for sporty activities or for just sightseeing on a snowy day, and while it’s waterproof and insulated with thermal reflective technology, it’s breathable and doesn’t feel too heavy to wear. The adjustable belt can define your figure, and the faux fur trim can be removed for a different look! 

Available in s izes XS-3X .

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Eddie Bauer

Eddie Bauer CirrusLite 2.0 Down Parka

Slim and sleek, Eddie Bauer’s CirrusLite down jacket is a really good travel jacket for snowy cities, as it’ll keep out the cold, defend against rain and snow, and will look great in photos! It’s ultra-lightweight with down insulation and a sturdy, water-repellent shell. More features include two side zippered pockets, great packability, and a fitted, insulated hood that’ll stay put and add that much-needed warmth up top! 

You can buy this in sizes XS-3X !

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon

The North Face Metropolis Parka

With the North Face Metropolis parka , you’ll never have to worry about being cold or wet, and the long, puffer-style fit has a feminine silhouette, so it looks pretty cute, too! It’s adventure ready, with a fit that’ll allow you to move freely and fabric that’s highly durable and water-repellent. Elastic cuffs and a snap-away hood add extra warmth! 

This cozy piece comes in sizes XS-XL and 1X-3X . 

Best Travel Wool Jacket

Wool jackets are chic and polished, and they make terrific travel jackets for their warmth, versatility, and many other practical features. They’re breathable and wick away moisture, and are super warm and cozy. Lighter wools and wool blends are often preferred by readers, as they’re travel-friendly and more affordable! 

These are travel coats women in the TFG community love, with one sharing, “I find a nice wool coat is the best jacket for travel in Europe in the winter. You’ll be able to layer light sweaters under these jackets too!” 

The coziest and chicest wool coats are below, but you can find more toasty wool coats here !

Shop Sizes 0-14: Nordstrom

Sam Edelman Notch Collar Wool Blend Jacket

Bundle up in this beautiful wool blend jacket from Sam Edelman , which combines a classic look with tons of comfort. The fabric is soft, lined, and warm, and it’s a perfect option for layering when the temps really drop. The black color is timeless, but it comes in a few other colors, too!

Grab this in sizes 0-14 !

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince

Quince Merino Wool Shirt Jacket

Made of 100% merino wool, this Quince shirt jacket makes for an easy (and beyond cozy) go-to for a chilly day. The relaxed, shirt-like design not only looks fresh and effortless but allows for plenty of layers underneath if needed. The wool fabric keeps it light, breathable, and super warm, plus it’s high quality and has multiple pockets! 

Find this in sizes XS-XL , along with some great colors!

Shop Amazon: Sizes S-XL | Sizes 1X-3X

London Fog Double Breasted Peacoat

A peacoat is such a classic, and this beauty from London Fog is a stellar pick for a traveling coat . Double breasted with large button closures, this jacket is an easy way to elevate an outfit while staying warm. It’s cozy but not too heavy, so it’ll work in many different destinations, and for the cherry on top, it comes with a beautiful scarf to match! 

Available in sizes S-XL and sizes 1X-3X !

Best Travel Trench Coat

Aside from being effortlessly chic, a trench coat is a fabulous light jacket for ladies due to its lightweight and practicality throughout multiple seasons. They’re easy to pack, easy to style, and can be worn over everything from tees to thermal layers and thick sweaters. And be sure to opt for a trench that’s waterproof, giving you that added versatility!

Readers sure adore the classic trench, and we’ve added three beauties below, but there are even more in this roundup of the top trench coats!

Eddie Bauer Girl On The Go Trench Coat

The Girl on the Go travelers jacket will keep every little drop of water out, with waterproof, windproof, and seam-sealed construction that still manages to be breathable! It’s comfortable to move around in, features two exterior and one interior zip pockets, and wearers say the cut is flattering and slimming. It’s easy to see why this jacket is a huge favorite of our readers! 

This popular jacket is available in sizes XS-XXL and plus sizes 1X-3X .

Shop J.Crew: Classic Sizes 00-18 | Petite Sizes 00-12 

J. Crew Icon Trench Coat

This J. Crew Icon trench coat totally lives up to its name, with those iconic trench coat featuring a classic khaki color, a relaxed silhouette, a button closure, and a belted waist. The fabric is water-repellent, and there’s a removable hood to keep you protected on a rainy day. Made of 100% cotton, it’s comfy and breathable, great for layering, and will look absolutely amazing with anything you wear it with!   

And it’s available in classic sizes 00-18 and petite sizes 00-12 .

Shop Sizes XS-XXL-3X: Amazon | Columbia

Columbia Pardon My Trench Rain Jacket

Classic trench turned sporty, Columbia’s trench rain jacket is full of great features and offers incredible comfort, too. While keeping the rain out, this jacket is mesh lined with a back venting system to keep things airy at the same time, so it makes a great light summer coat if a bit of rain is in the forecast. 

The adjustable hood, removable tie belt, and zippered pockets add to its charm! To top it off, it’s super high quality, long-lasting, and comes in sizes S-XXL and plus sizes 1X-3X (with a wide range of fun colors) in Amazon and Columbia !!

Best Travel Fleece Jacket

Bringing a fleece jacket along on your travels is always a great idea, as it’s an easy-to-pack, light travel jacket that works well on its own for a chilly hiking day and makes a cozy layer underneath a coat. Many readers consider a fleece to be the best jacket for airplane travel , too! 

TFGs love fleece because it’s such a low-maintenance fabric that feels so soft, is moisture-wicking, and can insulate even when it gets wet! 

You can see all the best fleece travel jackets here , or also check out the top three listed below!

Shop Sizes 0-20:   Lululemon

Lululemon Scuba Hoodie

If you have some outdoor excursions planned and want something on the sporty side, Lululemon’s Scuba fleece light weight travel jacket is the one for you! It has a relaxed fit, and though it’s lightweight, it’s made of thick cotton fleece to lock in the heat. This jacket also features a large, cozy hood, thumb holes in the sleeves, and two roomy pockets. 

Available in sizes 0-20 !

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Amazon | The North Face

The North Face Osito Jacket

The North Face packable travel jacket womens style offers tons of warmth without any bulk. The fabric not only feels silky smooth, blocks the wind well, and traps heat, but is made with 100% recycled fabric, making it a great eco-friendly choice, too. It’s casual yet looks so cute, feels like a hug, and works perfectly for sporty adventures, flights, or casual sightseeing days – it’s one of the best all round jacket options! 

This cute and cozy number is available in sizes XS-3XL .

Quince SuperSoft Fleece Hoodie

A perfect day trip jacket , Quince’s SuperSoft hoodie is beyond soft and sure to keep you warm and cozy year-round. Lightweight and stretchy, it’s a solid option for sporty activities, but it’s simple and classic enough to be worn with jeans and sneakers for a casual daytime look. Wearers say it hangs well, looks great over time, and is endlessly versatile!  

This popular fleece is available in sizes XS-XL and a few classic colors.

Best Travel Vest

A vest is a great packing addition for chilly trips, as it’s an ideal extra layer, keeping your core nice and warm while leaving your arms free and mobile. They’re especially great for adding extra warmth in the winter, and they’re easy to add or take away to adjust your temperatures as needed. When looking for the best packable travel jacket vest, go for light and insulating materials like down or fleece. 

The very best vests are included in this post, and you can review more travel vests at this link here !

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Eddie Bauer

Eddie Bauer CirrusLite Down Vest

Eddie Bauer’s CirrusLite vest is ultralight, and packs down small, but is seriously warm! Easy to take with you on the go, this pick is insulating with a high neckline for extra protection, and the shell is water-repellent and wind-resistant. It also has side zip pockets, a comfy, slim fit, and looks quite sleek! Available in XS-XXL !

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Amazon | Columbia

Columbia Benton Springs Fleece Vest

Made of a soft, fine fleece, the Columbia Benton Springs light women’s jacket vest is loved for its versatile warmth that you can wear from spring to fall! A stand up collar and zippered pockets make it cozy and functional, and it’s slim enough to be worn under all kinds of outerwear without creating bulk. You can get this in regular, petite or plus sizes, from XS-3X !

32 Degrees Packable Insulated Vest

32 Degrees kicks a cozy puffer vest up a notch with a feminine silhouette, a flattering side panel, and a wide range of pretty colors. Wearers say this packable insulated vest fits like a dream, looks great on, and offers plenty of warmth without being heavy. It’s also durable, easy to fold up into a bag and take on the go, and works in a wide range of temps! 

This comes in a lot of cute colors and in sizes XS-XXL .

Best Lightweight Travel Jacket

If you’re looking for something less heavy, a hoodie is always a great bet, and there are many reader-fave styles that make perfect travel companions! These lightweight travel jackets are great to bring along on casual sightseeing outings and are good for layering, too. And even though they’re made to be comfy, a good travel hoodie should be versatile and have some style, too! 

Take a peek at some cute and cozy hoodies below, or see a list of popular hoodies options here !

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Wool&

Wool& Aspen Hoodie

Merino wool is a travel superstar, and Wool&’s Aspen hoodie is made of 75% merino wool, boasting breathable and moisture-wicking. Lightweight with a front pocket and a drawstring hood, this piece is terrific for layering, though it looks super cute worn on its own, with a loose yet flattering fit. 

It’s durable and can easily handle rigorous hikes and other outdoor adventures, or be worn day after day for city sightseeing and while continuing to look and feel fresh! Grab this in sizes XS-3X !

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Nordstrom

Zella Cloud Zip Hoodie

Stretchy and impressively soft, Zella’s zip hoodie is a dreamy, lightweight layer to add to your packing list. Made of a warm, fleece blend, it’s perfect for snuggling into as you head out for a hike or board your plane. This cutie features a drawstring hood, roomy side pockets, and a classic fit!

Comes in adorable colors and sizes XS-XXL .

The North Face Shelbe Raschel Jacket

This North Face travel jacket is a tad more structured and sturdy, made of water-repellent and wind-resistant fabric, but there’s added stretch to give you complete freedom of movement. The plush fleece material feels super cozy and will keep you warm, as will the high neck and protective hood. Wearers love the handy zip pockets, as well as the sporty look and amazing quality! 

Get this in sizes XS-3XL .

Best Travel Denim Jacket

Jean jackets are a perfect way to style up your travel looks, and thankfully, they’re travel-friendly, too! A great women’s summer jacket , they’re not too heavy, they’re breathable, and they add a perfect amount of warmth for a cool summer evening or a crisp spring or autumn day. 

Timeless and effortless, denim jackets go with everything from leggings to dresses to shorts , and can be layered over a sweater or worn over a tank . So versatile!

The most popular jean jackets can be found at this link , but you can also fast-track and see the top choices for travel directly below!

Shop Sizes XXXS-3X: J.Crew

J. Crew Classic Denim Jacket

This J. Crew classic denim jacket is crisp and polished, with a flattering cut that hits at the hip. Made of 100% cotton, this pick has a beautiful medium-light wash that’s accentuated with your choice of silver or gold buttons. Roll up the cuffs for a laid-back look, and store your travel essentials in any of the four functional pockets! 

Voted by readers as the best lightweight women’s jacket , it makes sense why it sells year after year. You can pick up this beauty in XXS-3X . 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Amazon

Wrangler Stretch Denim Jacket

Wrangler has added a hint of stretch to their denim jacket , making it a super comfy option that offers extra mobility, too. Chic and flattering, wearers rave about the perfect fit that moves with you and allows for layering. It’s easy to style and is offered in a range of washes and in multiple colors, too! 

Riders by Lee Indigo Denim Jacket

This Riders by Lee denim jacket is another option with added stretch, lending versatility to its classic, straight-fit design. This pick is super cute and works for both casual and dressy occasions, and its style is made all the better by its incredible comfort! 

Light and easy to bring with you as you head out for the day, you’ll be comfy-cozy and looking amazingin this lightweight summer jacket ladies love for travel ! This comes in sizes XS-XL .

Best Travel Blazer

From their versatility to their effortlessly polished look, there are so many reasons to pack a blazer on your next trip! One reader shares, “A blazer is almost always the answer!” 

Aside from helping you look put-together in an instant, a blazer should fit comfortably and be lightweight while still providing a bit of warmth. Bonus points for packability and low-maintenance fabric! And be sure to look for timeless silhouettes and styles that’ll work with a variety of your outfits. 

For more polished picks, take a look at this roundup of the best travel blazers here , or review the top three listed below!

Shop XXXS-3X: J.Crew

J. Crew Juliette Sweater Blazer

The Juliette sweater blazer from J. Crew feels like a comfy sweatshirt with the classy, elevated look that’s perfect for a business conference or a chic Parisian dinner! The longer length and slouchy fit give it an effortless feel, and its double-layered cotton and merino wool knit fabric will keep you warm and cozy. Readers have said it’s the best lightweight jacket for travel , highlighting its versatility, chic look and soft feel, and the bar to none quality. This is available in sizes XXS-3X .

Shop Sizes 2-20: Eddie Bauer

Eddie Bauer Departure Blazer

While it’s classic and well-tailored, the fabric is what really makes this Eddie Bauer Departure blazer stand out. It’s lightweight, stretchy, moisture-wicking, and has UPF 50+ sun protection, offering coverage and an elevated look while keeping things fresh and cool. Whether you’re sitting on a long flight or doing tons of walking, this blazer will stay wrinkle-free and polished! 

Bonus points go its many pockets, including one zip pocket and one interior pocket. Grab this in sizes 2-20 .

Quince No-Button Knit Blazer

This Quince knit blazer has been a reader fave for a while, made of a comfy, 100% cotton knit in a relaxed silhouette that gives it a business-casual vibe. Readers say it feels so soft and cozy, and is easy to move around in. It’s also lightweight and packable but adds a decent amount of warmth! 

You can choose from sizes XS-XL in this chic blazer.

Best Travel Cardigan

A cardigan is not technically a jacket, but many treat them as such! They work well as a layering item in winter or a standalone in the late spring/summer months. Check out these lightweight travel jacket womens cardigan styles!

We’ve sourced three reader faves below, but see more cute and comfy cardigans in our blog post !

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Nordstrom

Halogen Open Front Long Cardigan   

The Halogen cardigan makes a terrific airplane travel jacket to stay warm on flights. It’s a definite loungewear item, but the design can be dressed up or down with slacks, dresses, blouses, thermals , t-shirts , and cozy leggings . This is necessary for when you’re on a trip and want some diversity when it comes to packing.   

Grab this in an array of colors and sizes XXS-XXL .

Shop XS-XL: Quince

Quince Cotton Cardigan

This Quince button down cardigan is the perfect layer for anything from a cute dress on a night out to a long-sleeve tee and jeans on a casual day of sightseeing.

It has a cropped fit to contrast the higher neckline, and it’s breathable yet warm enough to fight off chilly weather, making it a wonderful summer travel jacket womens choice!

Comes in sizes XS-XL and a range of pretty neutral colors!

Shop Sizes 1X-3X: Nordstrom

Nic+Zoe Long Sleeve Simple Cardigan (Plus Size)

This versatile Nic+Zoe long-sleeve makes a great women’s lightweight travel jacket and is quite flattering, able to match with almost any outfit! It’s made of a linen-polyester blended fabric, features an open front, and is a non-button style. 

It’s long enough that it can be dressed up or dressed down. It is available in XS-XXL sizes , and comes in 1X-3X !

Best Travel Faux Leather Jacket

Faux leather jackets add a stylish edge to any outfit, and readers confirm that they make a practical travel jacket for women, too! Many readers this type is the best travel jacket for Europe or cities like New York when the temperatures are moderate, or for destinations where the temperatures drop significantly at night. 

TFGs feel that faux leather jackets are more affordable than typical leather yet are still high quality, comfortable and warm, and beyond versatile. Throw yours on over a short or long sleeve  tee , or a midi dress and you’ve got an instantly elevated look with a bit of edge! 

To find more travel-friendly faux leather styles look at this post here  or see some gorgeous selections below! 

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Spanx

Spanx Faux Leather-Like Black Moto Jacket

This Spanx moto jacket has subtly sleek hardware and a more slimming fit. This stylish number is made of a flexible material that has a “leather” look. Users say this feels lightweight and almost wears like a shirt, yet goes with everything! Grab this in sizes XS-3X .  

BLANKNYC Faux Leather Moto Jacket

This gorgeous moto jacket from BLANKNYC exudes a more sophisticated look with buttery soft faux leather that feels comfy and is ideal for travel or everyday use. It has a flattering fit and comes in a few different colors, including white and a rich dark green! 

You can shop sizes sizes XS-XL in this jacket!

Shop Nordstrom: Sizes 1X-3X

Allsaints Leather Biker Jacket

This Allsaints leather biker jacket is badass and stunning at the same time! Slim yet warm, it’s easy to layer with and styled up in any number of ways for your next travel adventure. Soft and comfortable, you could wear this jacket on a long flight or a night out at a rock club!

Available in sizes 0-12 .

Compass Rose Carryon Size Packing Cubes: Slim Size Cubes | Medium Size Cubes

How to Pack Women’s Travel Jackets

Packing cubes will change the way you travel. You can use them for your personal items and keep your belongings organized for your journey. We’ve designed our own brand of slim cubes with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything, including your jacket!

Many of our readers use Compass Rose Packing Cubes to organize and compress their clothing and other items they plan to bring. These packing cubes are the only ones on the market with a number and color-coded system, so you know where you packed everything. 

And now the Compass Rose Packing Cubes are offered in two sizes: slim and medium. The slim size cubes measure 13” x 5” x 2.8”, and the medium size cubes measure 2.8” x 13” x 8.5”. Both fit an international carry-on suitcase. Users say the medium size is great for bulkier items!

You can learn my hacks with packing cubes in this video !

We put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!

Searching for the best travel jackets? From blazer to cardigan and best leather jacket to down jacket, here’s more of the best jackets for travel !

What do you think are the best traveling jackets for women ? Share and comment below!

For more tips and ideas on travel fashion, please read:

• Leather Jackets for Women
• Best Down Jacket for Women
• Rain Jackets for Women
• Womens Waterproof Jackets for Stylish Travel

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36 comments.

Such a great comprehensive list of jackets. It’s hard to figure out easy to jackets that are also versatile. Going to be looking at some of these on the list for upcoming jacket weather season

For a recent carry-on only trip to Italy where temps were in the 90s every day, I needed a very lightweight rain jacket “just in case”….I ended up with a stretchy, ultra lightweight jacket from Vuori. (Bought at REI) I never ended up needing it, but since I got back I’ve used it a time it two and I really like it. Because of the stretch fabric, it doesn’t bind. It rolls down into a tiny package that I tuck into the hood (wish it had a little attached stuff sack) and it’s water repellent (not waterproof). I didn’t find it created the dreaded sauna effect so, for me, it’s a winner!

Hi Diane, thank you for sharing your winner jacket with us! Hope you had an incredible time in Italy!

Love all the ideas and products

I’ve been looking forward to buying the Kenya jacket for a while. Finally went to the Anatomie site & am so sad to discover they changed the zippers (yes, I now realize I could have found that out from reading further on your blog/comments). Such a bummer – I hope they go back to the non-shiny zips. I did buy the Skyler pants and absolutely love them; thank you for your recommendations!

Hi Alex and team! I am a big fan of your recommendations… and I’m excited to try Anatomie for my future travels. Thank you!

Hello, I tried your link for getting 15% on Anatomie Kenya Jacket, but currently it is not working. Thanks Sue

Hi Sue, thank you for letting us know. Could you try using this code instead TFG15 and see if this works.

I am really sorry about this.

Great review! I love mine.

I was about to treat myself to a new Kenya jacket but no banana.

To me the new zippers make the jacket look cheap and nasty. So I’m hanging onto my old one. No sale. A more muted tone would have worked, but these zippers just look cheap to me – in the photos anyway.

Please pass on the feedback to Anatomie – there’s no reason why they can’t offer both options.

Thank you for taking the time to share your review with us Laura ?

Does this jacket have a hood?

Hi Harriet, unfortunately it doesn’t. If you are searching for a rain jacket with a hood, these are the most popular jackets according to our readers: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/rain-jackets-for-women/ Hope this helps!

I see there is the Kenya you recommended, but also a fleece lined version (with gunmetal zippers!). Have you tried the fleece version? I’d love to have a jacket that can be worn in the high desert at night as well as a day by the coast over a tshirt. I’m from the midwest, and we only have about 2-3 weeks of mild cold temps before winter jackets have to kick in. I’ve never known how to shop for jackets!

Hi Nancy, thank you for reaching out! Yes I have tried the fleece jacket. For overall travel (or everyday wear), the regular one is awesome as you can just throw it in your bag perfect for warm to mild weather. Super cute and versatile. The fleece is good for cooler weather. Hope this helps!

Yeah if it still looked exactly like yours I’d fork over the cash. But I hate shiny zippers so that is not going to fly. Hope they bring out a new Kenya version with gunmetal zippers (I found three Kenya jackets on their site and the ones with gunmetal are the fleece lined version but they only come in black still and I have too much black already in my wardrobe so really want grey).

Aside from the shiny zip and the darker grey colour (in the new version the gray is darker than yours) it would be the perfect travel jacket indeed.

Hi Emily, this change is very disappointing as this was one of my favorite features. ? Fingers crossed for the future!

On Anatomie’s website the grey Kenya jacket looks a lot darker than yours. Is it the same color or did they change it?

Hi Kim, the jacket I have looks like the grey in the cover image. To me, when I wear it, it looks more grey than another color. One thing to note is that they’ve recently changed the zippers on the Kenya Jacket, which is disappointing as this was one of my favorite features. The jacket in the post worn by the model, not me, is green. (The grey was sold out at the time we published the post.) Hope this helps.

Are there any plus size options?

Hi Michele, sadly this does not come in plus sizes. However some TFG readers have shared some alternatives to the Kenya jacket that offer a range of clothing sizes including regular, tall, petite, and plus sizes, too.

Jacket from L.L Bean: https://bit.ly/3IspShi WenVen Jacket (plus it comes with a hood): https://amzn.to/3JCqOkt Levi’s: https://amzn.to/3JMwaJS

Hope this helps you in your search!

Now that the zips look too shiny, can you recommend an alternative to this jacket please? Ideally one that’s not so expensive too…! Thanks.

Hi Emma, have a look one of our other jacket articles for some alternative suggestions, you can find them here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/travel-jackets/ Hope you find a jacket you like!

Hi Friends, I bought the Anatomie Kenya Jacket (the Small size) in grey and the Anatomie Skylar pants in black (I ordered xs and waited too long to return. I bought the Skylar olive green pants on sale in Small and they are perfect!!! I love love the jacket and do wish it came with the gunmetal zippers instead of the silver zippers, I bring the jacket every trip and wear it a lot here in the SF Bay Area as well!

Hi Lara, that is amazing to hear, so pleased to hear you love the jacket!!! Their style and quality is tough to beat. Happy travels! ?

Hi Alex. I do love the looks of the jacket and pants. However, do you have a more affordable option? Not everyone can or wants to spend that much money on clothes.

Alex, can you tell me about that crossbody bag you’re carrying? Thank you

Hi Denise, it is the the Travelon anti-theft classic messenger bag, featured here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/top-5-anti-theft-travel-bags-for-women-best-sellers/ . I like the bag’s neutral color, easy to wear style, and safety features. Hope this helps! 🙂

Sorry, also meant to ask you if your grey color of Kenya jacket is the same grey color that’s available on the Anatomie site, because the grey on the site looks almost chocolate brown?

Alex, depending on the photo, your Anatomie Kenya jacket looks grey, khaki and a lite shade of army green. Which one of those shades does it look like most in real life. I will purchase via link on your site 🙂

Hi Bess, the Kenya Jacket looks like the grey in the cover image. To me, when I wear it, it looks more grey than another color. One thing to note is that they’ve recently changed the zippers on the Kenya Jacket, which is disappointing as this was one of my favorite features. In answer to your second question, the jacket in the post worn by the model, not me, is green. (The grey was sold out at the time we published the post.). Hope this helps! 🙂

What kind of shoes are you wearing? I love them.

Hi Diane, thank you for your question! I wore the Skechers featured at the top of this post: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-slip-on-sneakers/ Hope this helps! 🙂

I love Anatomie. I have one of their jackets now and adore it. I’ve had my eye on the Lady Lugano for a while but can’t yet justify the price when I have so many other jackets. It’s beautiful though. Sigh. 🙂

Their style and quality is tough to beat. Thanks for commenting!

Awesome jackets and beautiful colors as well. Loved it!

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Protect Your Trip »

The 6 best packable jackets for travel in 2024.

These packable jackets promise protection from the elements without sacrificing space in your suitcase.

The Best Packable Jackets

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When preparing for a trip, you always have to account for whatever kind of weather might come your way – which, in most cases, means packing a jacket just in case. Of course, space in your luggage is precious, and the bulk of a jacket may be more than what you want to pack. That's why many travelers seek out packable jackets that fold down compactly.

Choosing a packable jacket doesn't mean you have to sacrifice warmth, though – there are plenty of options that will keep you warm without the bulk. Read on to find the best packable jackets based on recommendations from travel experts as well as consumer ratings and reviews across a variety of retail sites.

Best Overall: Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Lightweight: Arc'teryx Atom LT Jacket

Best down: cotopaxi fuego hooded down jacket, best rain jacket: marmot precip eco jacket.

• Best Budget: Amazon Essentials Puffer Jacket

Best Style: Lululemon Pack-It Down Jacket

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

Courtesy of Patagonia

There's no contest when it comes to the best packable jacket: The Patagonia Nano Puff is the tried-and-true choice for travel experts. "The warmth-to-weight ratio on this jacket is unmatched. It keeps me warm in cool temperatures or on a cold plane without making me overheat," says Lauren Maternowski, who has tried dozens of packable jackets in her role as managing editor at Pack Hacker. "And, if I add a few warm layers underneath, it adds enough warmth to feel comfortable in winter climates."

The jacket barely takes up any luggage space, either. "It compresses down to the size of a sandwich bag in its own interior pocket," says Melissa McGibbon, destinations editor at Powder. "I also appreciate that it's sustainably produced and lasts for years."

The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket is available in a variety of men's and women's sizes as well as with a hood (the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody , McGibbon's personal favorite).

Price: $239 or less

Courtesy of Arc'teryx

Many travel writers recommend Arc'teryx for its packable jackets like the Cerium and – if you're looking for something particularly lightweight – the Atom LT. Though light, this packable jacket retains heat thanks to its synthetic insulation. It also protects from the elements with a water-resistant shell, making it suitable for a variety of climates.

In addition to the design, the overall fit of this jacket earns high praise. "One of my favorite things about the Atom LT is its fit and comfort," says travel blogger Ethan Williams of Traveling Gossip. "It's not too tight, allowing room for layering, but still has a flattering, streamlined design." He notes that the side panels are made of a breathable, stretchy material, which increases mobility.

If you're looking for a jacket with a hood, there's also the Atom LT Hoody . While both men's and women's sizes are available, note that the women's jacket is now called the Atom (without the LT). Some stores may still advertise it as the Atom LT, however.

Price: $280 or less

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

The Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket features responsibly sourced 800-fill down, so you can feel warm and cozy (literally and figuratively) when wearing it. Its outer shell, which has two zippered pockets, is water-resistant, and an interior zippered pocket provides protection for your smartphone or other small essentials.

"My favorite feature is the scuba hood, which – along with the jacket zipping up to my nose – keeps me extra warm on cold and windy days," says Leilani Osmundson , digital producer for travel at U.S. News. "I wear this jacket everywhere, from skiing and walking my dog in the winter to camping and backpacking in the summer. My other down jackets have stayed tucked away in my closet ever since I received this one!"

The Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket is available in a variety of the brand's signature color combos, which make it also stylish. "I seriously get compliments all the time," Osmundson says.

Price: $295 or less

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A packable rain jacket is essential for any vacation, and the Marmot PreCip remains a classic choice 20 years after it first debuted. This well-priced option is 100% seam-taped with eco-friendly materials to ensure you'll stay completely dry, whether you're chasing the Niagara Falls on a boat tour or exploring Thailand during the wet season. It's also so compact that its hood can be rolled into the collar, and the jacket itself is designed to fold down into its own pocket.

Travelers appreciate how breathable this jacket is, noting that it doesn't make them sweat in warm temps. In cold weather, many say it's all you need and that if you get chilly, it's versatile enough to be layered with other clothing.

Price: $100 or less

Best Budget: Amazon Essentials Packable Jacket

Amazon makes some surprisingly sturdy travel gear, including packable jackets. In fact, more than 44,000 reviewers in total across men's and women's options have given the Amazon Essentials Packable Jacket 4.5 stars, pointing to its value for the price. The water-resistant puffer jacket is lightweight yet provides just the right amount of coziness on cool days (and works well over a hoodie for added warmth). Travelers say the jacket has worked well for a variety of trips, including cruises to Alaska and backpacking through Europe.

The jacket is available in a variety of colors and sizes including children's and plus sizes , though many reviewers note the sizes are inaccurate (so you may want to purchase a few or use Amazon's Prime Try Before You Buy to find the right fit). The jacket comes with a packable carry bag and is machine-washable.

Price: $39.90 or less

Fashion meets function in the Pack-It-Down Jacket by Lululemon, which features a slim fit that also covers the buttocks. "One thing I very much appreciate about the Pack-It-Down puffer jacket is that it cinches at the waist, so it doesn't make me look like an amorphous blob like most puffer-down jackets do," says travel blogger Katie Caf. You'd never know the jacket has 700-fill-power goose down by looking at it.

Caf also notes that her coat still looks new even after three New York City winters and two years of full-time travel, including trips to warm weather destinations. "When I'm traveling in tropical climates, it's a no-brainer to still bring my Pack-It-Down jacket because it takes up almost no room in my bag and weighs next to nothing." The water-resistant jacket has a removable stuff pocket for packing it into luggage, as well as a removable hood and hand pockets with a hidden phone sleeve.

Note that the Pack-It Down Jacket is often sold out due to its popularity, but you can sign up to to get an email when it's back in stock.

Price: $198 or less

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Home » Gear » best travel jacket

10 Best Travel Jackets for ALL Travelers • Must Read Review for 2024

At The Broke Backpacker we understand the importance of versatile gear that can withstand the elements while keeping us comfortable and stylish on our journeys. Every backpacker, regardless of where they plan to go traveling, should always bring along a good jacket. It’s just one of those things you need as a traveler.

Icy wind, freezing rain, mountain climates, coastal evenings, chilly deserts, winter travel, pub crawls… there are a million scenarios when having a great travel jacket makes the difference between having an awesome time and wishing you were back home tucked up in bed!

I can’t tell you how many times my jackets have saved my life (sometimes literally) in the mountains. Having a good jacket is as important as having shoes that fit or a backpack with two shoulder straps! A travel jacket is a staple piece of equipment that should always be tucked down somewhere in the depths of your backpack.

In this guide, we’ll embark on a quest to uncover the best travel jackets that seamlessly combine performance, durability, and value. By the end of this guide, you’ll have everything you need to know – cost, performance, weight, and all of the factors that go into making an awesome jacket to take traveling.

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Quick Answer: Best Travel Jackets Roundup 2024

Faq about the best travel jacket, final thoughts on the best travel jackets of 2024.

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• Overall Best Travel Jacket – Patagonia Nano Puff Hoodie
• Best Rain Jacket to Take Traveling –  Arc’teryx Beta AR

Best Winter Jacket for Travelers – Ravean Down X Heated Jacket

• The Ultimate Travel Jacket for Hikers –   Arc’teryx Thorium Down Hoodie
• Best Travel Jacket for Women –  Patagonia Nano Puff
• Most Badass Snowboard/Ski Jacket –  Burton GORE-TEX Pillowline Insulated Jacket

Best Budget Travel Jacket – REI 650 Down Jacket

• Most Stylish Travel Jacket –  Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Hooded

Best Shell Jacket For Travel – Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Hybrid Shell

Patagonia Nano Puff Hoodie

• Cost > $289
• Best Use > Hiking, traveling, climbing, daily use.
• Waterproof > No

Arc’teryx Beta AR

• Cost > $600
• Best Use > Trekking, mountain sports, camping, traveling.
• Waterproof > Yes

Ravean Down X Heated Jacket

• Cost > $260
• Best Use > Winter travel, everyday use, cold day hikes, urban lifestyle

Arc’teryx Thorium Down Hoodie

• Cost > $500
• Best Use > Outdoor sports, hiking, urban lifestyle, travel.

Feathered Friends EOS

• Cost > $409
• Best Use > travel, hiking or casual city use

Patagonia Nano Puff

• Cost > $239
• Best Use > Traveling, outdoor sports, hiking, camping.

Burton GORE-TEX Pillowline Insulated Jacket

• Cost > $399.95
• Best Use > Winter sports

REI 650 Down Jacket

• Cost > $129

Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisper 2

• Cost > $360
• Best Use > Urban lifestyle, traveling, hiking

Best Overall Travel Jacket  –  Patagonia Nano Puff Hoodie

The Patagonia Nano Puff Hoodie takes the prize of best overall travel jacket for a variety of reasons. I have traveled with this jacket in my backpack for the last seven years. It has been with me to over 20 countries and at least 3,000 trail miles and counting. It is the best all around jacket and the most versatile travel jacket on this list.

The Nano Puff hoodie is made out of synthetic down, so it is a bit water-resistant, unlike natural down. It is lightweight and very packable at 12.8 ounces making it perhaps the best jacket ever!!!! If you want more protection it’s best to combine it with a waterproof Patagonia jacket .

A good down (or synthetic down in this case) is an absolute must for most backpacking trips. Even in warm, tropical countries, I have ended up using my Nano Puff every day as a pillow on buses and whilst camping. When it’s windy out but not too wet I also like to combine it with my Patagonia Houdini for a bit more protection.

At $249.00 USD this Patagonia travel jacket is priced in the mid-range in terms of its competitors. It is not necessarily the best travel jacket ever but is very high quality, versatile and priced in the mid-range making it affordable. It also feels absolutely lovely to wear – its soft, light, warm and is kind of like being hugged by kittens!

Though My Nano Puff has seen a ton of abuse, it is still going strong after all this time. When the zipper on my Nano Puff died, Patagonia replaced it for free. Apart from the zipper I have had zero issues.

In addition to their excellent warranty, Patagonia is a great company to support in general. Each Nano Puff Hoodie is made from 55% post-consumer recycled content. You can feel good about supporting a company that actually gives a shit about the earth and their own impact on it. This isn’t the last time you will be hearing about the Patagonia Brand in the best travel jackets review!

Want to read more about this jacket? Check out our dedicated review of the Patagonia Nano Puff jacket .

If you need something warmer, then have a look at our guide to then best winter jackets from Patagonia too.

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

Best Rain Jacket to Take Traveling  – Arc’teryx Beta AR

Arc’teryx is famous the world over for making some of the best quality gear for adventures. I have had several rain jackets in the past that claimed to be waterproof. There is nothing more frustrating (and potentially dangerous) than being out on a backpacking trip in the mountains and having your rain jacket fail you. Arc’teryx make some of the best traveling jackets out there though so that won’t happen with any of their gear.

After being a rain-soaked-hiker one too many times, I bit the bullet and bought an Arc’teryx Beta AR rain jacket. I have never once looked back. My hiking trips have never been the same and my happiness levels have stayed consistently high since that day, for me, it’s the best travel anorak on the market bar none.

You feel like you are wearing an invisible suit of waterproof armor. It’s Gore-Tex Pro Shell three-layer laminate fabric is waterproof, snow-shedding, windproof, breathable, lightweight and durable. If you’re going somewhere very rainy, like a Sri Lankan adventure , be sure to bring a jacket as waterproof as this one. (Or this one).

The Beta AR features taped seams like a tent so you are guaranteed to stay dry even in the most heinous of storms. It also features zipping watertight pockets for stashing your snacks (very important) or phone (meh). At just over 1 pound, it might just be the most useful piece of clothing you will pack for your adventure by weight. In fact, if you’re looking for the best outdoor jacket on the market , this might just be it!

The major drawback. For many backpackers, the Arc’teryx Beta AR is cost prohibitive. And for good reason. Who wants to spend $600 on a jacket?! I admit it was really tough for me to fork out that kind of dough for a jacket. But hey, serious adventures call for serious, quality gear. Arc’teryx Beta AR is the definition of quality and serious. Unfortunately, $600 USD is the price you will have to pay if you want the luxury of never being wet and cold again. Look at it as a lifelong investment in backpacking comfort.

Once you have this jacket on your body in a rainstorm you will know what I am talking about and you will thank me. When they say waterproof, your $600 guarantees that not a single fucking rain drop will be felt inside the jacket!

We also love the Arc’teryx Beta SL Rain Shell and the Arc’teryx Zeta SL for women, so check out those full reviews too! Want more options? Check out our list of the best Patagonia rain jackets to see if one fits the bill for your trip.

Wake up, dingus; it snowed last night. For the day after mother nature is done dumping, this jacket is breathable enough to slip on and reach the mountain top before dawn and protective enough to charge downhill through flurries. 

This hybrid serves as one of the lightest rain hardshell jackets on the market. This jacket has got backcountry and backpacking written all over it. While you don’t need to bring a warm shell jacket like this to Thailand or Costa Rica, its great for cooler places like Northern India or autumn trips across Europe.

Ever thought to yourself “yeah this down jacket is warm, but I wish they could make one with a heater built in.” When I have been walking around a city freezing my butt off, the thought has certainly crossed my mind. Well my friends, that is exactly what Ravean has done here with their ultra-toasty Down X Heated Jacket (they make both male/female versions).

The jacket is heated using a rechargeable battery system (that is also able to charge your phone), allowing you to manually regulate the heating element so you can stay comfortable in temperature ranges  from -10° F to 55° F .

When we first heard about this jacket we thought the concept sounded gimmicky and that the jacket wouldn’t be attractive. How wrong we were. Oh and ladies: we wrote a whole post on the best women’s heated jackets too if you want to check out some more options.

For the perfect winter travel jacket that will keep you warm in a range of temps AND looks good too, the Ravean Down X Heated Jacket is hard to beat. We highly recommend this one for your winter travels or just as an awesome everyday jacket during the cold months.

Check out our full Ravean Down X Heated Jacket review .

Best Travel Jacket for Hikers –  Arc’teryx Thorium Down Hoodie

Alas, Arc’teryx has made the best travel jacket list again. This time for the Thorium Down Hoodie. If you’re a keen hiker looking to stay warm and pack light whilst racking up big miles this is the jacket for you.

750-fill-power RDS grey goose down is the magic formula that keeps you cozy in cold weather. Weight only 1 lb. 2.2 oz, the Thorium Down Hoodie packs down to next to nothing. Stylish, tough as hell, and warm enough to battle the mountain elements, The Thorium Down Hoodie is one beautiful piece of gear to behold.

An interesting new feature is that Arc’teryx added Coreloft synthetic insulation in the areas likely to become damp and wet. This means the previously vulnerable down has been replaced with a synthetic that holds up much better against moisture.

At $450.00 it isn’t the cheapest hiking jacket out there, but it might well be the best. Broke Backpacker tip: sometimes you can find them on Amazon for under $400.

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Best Ultralight Down Jacket: Feathered Friends EOS

This one is a great lightweight warm jacket for travel, hiking, or for casual city use. Offering maximum amount warmth compressed into a tiny package, the Feathered Friends EOS jacket apart from the rest. Feathered Friends have been producing some great travel down jackets and sleeping bags for years. The EOS is yet another fine addition to their down layering arsenal. It’s a packable travel jacket which is great for popping inside your backpack.

We tested this jacket in the Pakistani mountains on several long treks and found the EOS to offer the perfect blend of warmth, lightweight, and packability. To put it bluntly, the EOS kicked ass and felt great to trek in when the temperatures dipped on the glacier. What’s cool is that this jacket isn’t just a one-trick pony. It’s a solid choice for your Autumn adventures , regarding its weight, comfort, and packability.

The FF EOS jacket has a fitted cut so it hugs the body whilst maximizing warmth. At just under $340, the EOS is not the cheapest jacket out there, but in our opinion, well worth the investment. Unlike true ultralight jackets, the Flinders can take a fair bit of abuse as the fabric is not paper thin. Plus, you would be hard pressed to find another jacket with Ethically-sourced 900+ fill power goose down power with the same warmth to weight ratio. 

The  Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer for example, while an excellent ultralight option, simply can’t take the punishment other down jackets can. That’s not to say that it is poor quality though. If you don’t do lots of climbing or bush-bashing anyway, this shouldn’t be an issue for you if you want to really go ultralight.

Best Travel Jacket for Women – Patagonia Nano Puff

Patagonia joins our best travel jacket list again with the women’s version of the Nano Puff (sans the hood). This is the jacket merges the comfort of down with the warmth of a lightweight jacket. Whether you are hitting the town, the slopes, or tackling a summit bid in the summer, the Nano Puff has got you covered.

The Nano Puff was technically designed for rock climbers and thru-hikers. As is the case with most of Patagonia’s gear, the Nano Puff is certainly a multi-purpose unit. If you are a lady looking to score the perfect travel jacket, your search is over.

Ana, contributing writer and editor at the Broke Backpacker had this to say about the women’s Patagonia Nano Puff jacket: “The Nano Puff is amazing. I have used it all over, in multiple countries and it has held up great. It is super warm and a good insulator jacket. Because it is not down it can get wet and dry a little faster than a down would. I highly recommend checking them out.”

For $199, you will be investing in a fantastic jacket that can handle all of the wear and tear of a seasoned traveler. In case you haven’t gathered it by now, Patagonia makes excellent products, and their line of ladies gear is no different. This one is made specifically to fit a ladies frame but there are loads of similar mens waterproof travel jackets out there so don’t feel excluded guys! The Nano Air is maybe the best travel jacket women can buy!

Best Snowboard/Ski Jacket – Burton GORE-TEX Pillowline Insulated Jacket

Burton’s first appearance on my list is for the Pillowline Insulated Jacket. This jacket is a fantastic cold weather/ snow sports layer. It combines the warmth of a down jacket with the elemental protection of a Goretex rain jacket. This truly luxurious, ultra-warm jacket packs a big punch with its sleek design and brilliant construction.

Strategic placement of each insulation material ensures user comfort and prolonged jacket life. Down Composite Mapping places synthetic materials, which retains warmth when wet, along the hood, hem and underarms; areas prone to contact with moisture. lightweight 80 g ThermacoreECO insulation lines the core and sleeves where warmth is most needed. The hood comfortably fits over any ski or mountaineering helmet so you can cover up with losing your head protection.

The Burton Pillowline jacket also offers up a solid ventilation design, allowing you to cool down while you are working hard on the slopes. Airflow and moderate sweat management for medium-intensity activities; mesh-lined, no-snag underarm vents enhance breathability and allow heat to escape because deep snow is a workout.

I have said it before and I’ll say it again. Burton makes some of the best gear money can buy, and whilst their stuff can be outrageously expensive, you can be sure you are buying the best possible product on the market.

If like me, you value having quality gear, the reality is you have to fork over the cash sometimes. As is with most things in life, you get what you pay for and the Burton GORE-TEX Pillowline Insulated Jacket doesn’t everything but disappoint. It is great for alpine and winter conditions but if you are after a lightweight travel jacket then this one is NOT for you.

After surviving my above list of amazing and expensive travel jackets, you deserve a quality budget option! Look no further than the REI 650 Down Jacket. As the name suggests, its 650 goose down insulation provides a high warmth-to-weight ratio and compacts so easily you can pack the jacket into its own left-hand pocket for storage.

This jacket is super warm and is the perfect jacket for everyday use whether you are traveling or not. Sometimes us travelers simply don’t have the cash to spend on big-ticket items. Fear not! The 650 down jacket is very affordable for everyone! At $75 USD (current sale price) you’d be hard-pressed to find another high-performance jacket at this price.

If you have never owned a down jacket before the REI 650 is a good place to start. Every backpacker needs a great jacket to take along on every adventure. This is the jacket for those looking for a solid piece of gear without the gouging price tag. REI also makes the same exact jacket in women’s sizes and colors.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Most Stylish Travel Jacket –   Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 Hooded

I agree that in addition to keeping me warm, I want my jacket to look somewhat nice. The outdoor industry is notorious for producing some of this least visually appearing garments in the history of western fashion. Who the fuck wants a neon yellow puffer jacket with lime green zippers?

In recent years, the industry as a whole has become more style conscious. In order to win my most stylish jacket rank, the jacket must look good, but also be a badass piece of gear in the field.

That is where the Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer 2 comes in. This was a hard choice as now there are many stylish, well-performing jackets out there.

The Ghost Whisperer 2 really has it all. It is super lightweight, warm, looks great in a city and performs in the backcountry. At only 8.8 ounces, the Ghost Whisperer is one of the lightest multi-sport jackets around. It even performs well in semi-damp conditions. Its “QShield” Down resists moisture and retains maximum loft even when wet!

I gave Patagonia and Arc-teryx a lot of attention in this review, but Mountain Hardware’s Ghost Whisperer is a jacket not to be overlooked. If you want a jacket that looks cool and will keep you warm in freezing temperatures, the Ghost Whisperer has your name on it.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What jacket should backpackers get?

The REI 650 Down Jacket is a great travel jackets for backpackers. It’s light, warm, cheap and has so many epic features.

What is the most stylish travel jacket?

If you prefer a very classic and chic-looking travel jacket, the is the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Hooded is a great option. It’ll keep you warm while making you look like a professional, yet sleek traveller.

Are down jackets good for travelling?

Down jackets are great for cold and dry weather travelling. They’ll keep you perfectly warm, but most of them aren’t made for damp and wet conditions.

What is the best packable jacket?

A packable jacket should be easy to store and weight almost nothing. The Feathered Friends EOS offers exactly that. And on top of that, you’ll also get a high-quality, lightweight down jacket.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

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Well there you have it: the ultimate review of best travel jackets of the year! I hope you found this review to be helpful! Choosing travel coats and jackets can be bloody well tough but hopefully you are now ready to choose the right jacket for all of your traveling needs.

Whether you are new to traveling or a seasoned adventure you know how important it is to have a great all purpose jacket ready at all times. Having an awesome jacket to take traveling is a great feeling. It gives you confidence and keeps you comfortable when the weather turns chilly (or worse).

Any way you swing it, investing in a quality jacket of your choice is one of the best things you can do to prepare for your epic adventure.

Stay warm my friends!

What are your thoughts? Did this best travel jackets review help you? Anything I didn’t answer? Let me know in the comments below – thanks guys!

Buy Us a Coffee !

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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Aiden Freeborn

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The detailed review of the 8 best travel jackets for 2023 is a treasure trove of valuable insights. It’s clear that the writer has done their research, providing comprehensive information that covers all the must-know aspects. From functionality to style, the jackets are dissected to help readers make informed choices. This blog is a go-to guide for travelers seeking the perfect jacket companion. The thoughtful analysis and recommendations are incredibly helpful, ensuring that adventurers stay comfortable and stylish on their journeys. Kudos for compiling this essential resource for all globetrotters!

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Tested: The 7 Best Men’s Travel Jackets for Easy Packability

By: Ethan Brehm Published: May 10, 2024

By: Ethan Brehm and Cameron Cardwell Published: May 10, 2024

Contributors

It can be hard to find the perfect travel garment , but in an attempt to track down the best around, we’ve compiled a guide to travel jackets that will adhere to any destination in which you find yourself. If you already thought traveling was a multi-layered process, then you might as well add one more layer that could change your whole trip for the better. Fortunately, we were able to get hands-on and test our favorites.

Best Travel Jackets

Best Half-Zip

Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker

Best Down Jacket

Outdoor Research Helium Jacket

Best Hybrid Jacket

Patagonia Nano-Air Light Hybrid Jacket

Best Waterproof Jacket

L.L.Bean Waterproof PrimaLoft Packaway Jacket

Best Lightweight Jacket

Relwen Windzip Jacket

Most Stylish

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 Down Hoodie

Best High-End Jacket

Arc’Teryx Beta AR Jacket

Article Overview

How We Tested

What to look for, travel jackets comparison chart, why should you wear a travel jacket, what is a travel jacket, honorable mentions, the best sling bags for everyday carry.

Jackets can come and go, especially with all the new and improved tech they keep coming out with. And that’s a major reason why we compiled this guide. To help you sift through the noise of the plethora of options available, we did the legwork of scouring the space and coming up with a shortlist of travel jackets that we thought would be great candidates for testing. We looked at aesthetics, materials, insulation (if any), weight, and packability.

From there, we acquired our units for testing and took each of these jackets out and about, seeing what we liked and didn’t like about them. Aside from seeing how well each of them stuffed into our bags, we also considered fit, comfort, and warmth. The results are detailed down below.

Measurements: I’m 6’0″ tall and wear an XL on most occasions, and almost every jacket I tested is an XL. My body type is a bit large with broad shoulders, so I also prefer jackets that are a bit slimming, especially around the belly area. For the sake of jackets, I’m more particular than most about hood fit since I have long hair that I usually wear in a bun.

Material: When you’re traveling, you want a jacket that’s lightweight and ready for anything. That means materials like GORE-TEX, nylon, and polyester will be best because they’re light, durable, and weather-resistant.

Insulation: Not every travel jacket will need to be insulated but these fills can improve your warmth but can sometimes make packing a challenge.

Water-Resistance: Luckily, most packable jackets are made with a water-resistant material (or finish). While it’s not as common, a water proof jacket will provide you with even more protection.

Weight/Packability: Some jackets may come with attachable/built-in bags to stow them away in, but as long as you have your own bag and the jacket can bunch up easily, you can travel easily.

• Stylish color options
• Lightweight
• Flattering fit
• Hood can be taken on/off when zipped up
• Very affordable
• Long sleeves

Best Half-Zip: While the half-zip jacket is working its way back into the lexicon of cool style silhouettes, it provides you with some utility as well. Layering with a standard jacket just isn’t as feasible, especially if you’re looking to use it as a mid-layer. However, the half-zip may just answer all of your problems without completely overheating you like a sweater or thermal might. Our favorite in this regard is Cotopaxi’s Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker, which taps into both the functional and visually appealing aspects of a half-zip. And it’s currently available in six eye-popping colorways.

Cotopaxi has arguably the best use of color of any outdoor clothing company and this jacket is no exception. We got hands-on with the “Dance Moves” colorway, which is conceptually very late-’80s with its shades of blue complementing the red and periwinkle accents. The complexity of the lines and colors also allows this to be a bit more flattering than your average non-black top. It also fits very true-to-size, which is even more important since it doesn’t unzip all the way. Not to mention, it’s incredibly affordable. At just $80, this windbreaker also packs into its own front pocket and is super lightweight at only 8oz.

If the pass-through front pocket lacks the level of security you’re hoping for to secure your gear, there’s a nice zippered kangaroo pouch above it, which is also equipped with a small flap for extra protection against wetter weather. Other things I liked were the high front zipper, which doesn’t go so high that it’s impractical but can still keep out a good draft. Likewise, the hood can be taken on or off without unzipping the jacket (though this might be more challenging if you have a bun like me).

The Not So Good

Like most windbreakers, the Teca Half-Zip is a noisy sucker. You’ll be thwip-thwipping any time you move, which might not be ideal if you’re sitting on a crowded airplane next to someone who’s trying to sleep. It’s also important to note that while the torso, arms, and shoulders fit well without being too tight or spacious, the sleeves themselves are noticeably long. In fact, they fall below my knuckles when I’m standing up. Fortunately, there’s an elastic band at the cuffs that let you pull these above your wrists. Unfortunately, the elastic could be a bit tighter.

Verdict: While you’ll notice the striking colorways of the Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker, it serves as a comfortable, protective, and utilitarian jacket for traveling light –– and at only 8oz! We noticed it was a bit too noisy for long plane flights and the sleeves fell pretty low but this is still an affordable and attractive option for anyone who loves expressive outerwear.

Weight: 8oz Shell: Repurposed polyester taffeta and repurposed ripstop polyester Insulation: N/A DWR?: Yes Hood?: Yes

• Stylish and slimming
• Waterproof reinforcement on shoulders & hood
• Lightweight yet warm
• Waist pockets hard to zip up

Best Down Jacket: Most down jackets aren’t necessarily practical for travel. However, most down jackets aren’t Outdoor Research’s Helium Down Hoodie. Insulated with responsibly sourced 800-fill power goose down, the shell is a 30D Pertex Quantum ripstop nylon bolster with extra abrasion resistance in a way that doesn’t increase the weight. High-impact points on the shoulders and hood are supplemented with some extra waterproof protection, making this one of the few rain-friendly down jackets around. Lightweight at just under a pound, this stylish coat is known for its packability.

When we put together our down jackets guide, the OR Helium was my favorite of the bunch, making it a no-brainer here for travel jackets. When unzipped, it fits incredibly well, but it’s even slimming when zipped all the way up –– not super common for down jackets. Not too tight or too bulky, the sleeves were a plus, featuring elastic on the cuffs that closed perfectly. I wear a watch on my right wrist and I was able to show it off naturally without the cuff falling over it to cover it up.

Sporting a sleek aesthetic and a packable design that stuffs well into your suitcase, this coat is also a smart choice if you’re doing any outdoor activities on your trip. As advertised, the hood and shoulders are reinforced to beat moisture well, even though the entire jacket isn’t waterproof. The longer cut is also preferable, which creates extra coverage at the waist for windy days without getting in the way when you’re sitting down.

If I had to nitpick about one thing, it would be the waist pockets on the outside. While unzipping them was quick and could be done with a single hand, closing them back up was a struggle, which could be an issue if you’re trying to be fast. Also, I didn’t love how I couldn’t put the hood on when the jacket was zipped up all the way; I had to unzip it a bit to take the hood on and off. However, I did like the low profile of the hood, which didn’t lump against my shoulders when I sat down.

Verdict: Our favorite down jacket around, the Outdoor Research Helium is a lightweight, warm, and stylish hoodie that can pack away into your suitcase with ease. Bolstered on the hood and shoulders for waterproofness, the coat has some finicky pockets but was among the best-fitting options we tried out. If you’re traveling in colder climates, consider this one.

Weight: 15.4oz Shell: 30D Ripstop Pertex Quantum Nylon Insulation: 800-fill goose down DWR?: Yes Hood?: Yes

• Warm yet super breathable
• Very comfortable and soft
• Made in a Fair Trade Certified facility
• Tight when zipped up

Best Hybrid Jacket: If you tend to overheat in jackets, then Patagonia’s got you covered with the Nano-Air Light’s unique ventilation system. The jacket’s dual-zippered closure allows you to vent as needed, and Patagonia assures nothing short of an ideal hybrid jacket for when you simply don’t know what the weather report has planned for your week out of the office . Impeccably light with 40-gram FullRange insulation and a cool name to boot, this sleek piece from the SoCal-based heritage brand is Fair-Trade Certified as well.

A sweatshirt feel with a jacket function, the Patagonia Nano-Air Light is expectedly lightweight weighing just 10.5oz. It’s a simple build but has enough of a unique identity that it’s well-worth wearing. Incredibly soft both inside and out, the coat feels cozy, which will serve you well on long flights or when riding passenger in a car with people who like to crank the AC. As promised, the jacket doesn’t overheat. I was wearing it with a long-sleeve shirt underneath and noticed I didn’t feel too warm despite the moderate temperature at the time. On the other hand, it was incredibly warming the next evening when the weather cooled down.

While the jacket is slimming on the body, it does wear rather tight, which is noticed mostly when sitting down. If you never zip up your jacket, then you’ll be fine with your normal size, otherwise consider going a size up (or just unzipping when you sit down). Likewise, the unique back construction makes this portion of the coat stick out when it’s un zipped. However, my least favorite aspect here is the sleeve length. The cuffs fell halfway down my palms and didn’t functionally clamp to my wrists like the elastic was supposed to.

Another thing I’d change here is the pockets. There are only the two options at the waist, which require two hands to close. However, it could use a chest pocket or one on the inside.

Verdict: Finding a balance between a sweatshirt and a jacket, this lightweight Patagonia Nano-Air Light Hybrid Jacket is one of the coziest options we tried out. Soft both inside and out, it’s warm when it needs to be but never overheats. We weren’t fans of the long sleeves that kept getting in the way or the tight fit when zipped up but this is still a favorable option when you need some flexibility in your outerwear.

Weight: 10.5oz Shell: 1.6-oz 30-denier 100% recycled polyester Insulation: 40-g FullRange 100% polyester DWR?: Yes Hood?: No

• Zippers on pockets are easy to use single-handed
• Nice hood design protects you well
• Accessible style doesn’t look like a rain jacket
• Inner sleeve acts as a nice wind barrier
• Hood drawstrings are frustrating

Best Waterproof Jacket: In case the rest of your travel gear is already weighing you down, L.L.Bean decided to develop their sleek Packaway Jacket from the world’s lightest material – literally. While this particular jacket lacks a down lining, the American heritage brand makes up for it with plush layers of lightweight, NASA-developed Aerogel and its 60-gram PrimaLoft Gold insulation that is highly capable of keeping you warm should you find yourself snowed in near Bean’s Maine headquarters. Finished off with a bevy of handy pockets, its most convenient one will prove to be the easily accessible stowaway pocket.

I love how much the L.L.Bean Packaway Jacket doesn’t look like a rain jacket despite how well it protects you from moisture. I was able to test this in wet weather and can attest that it does keep you dry (though it wasn’t raining incredibly hard). The hood provides some nice coverage all around and the collar goes up pretty high on your chin, but not too high that it looks ridiculous. In all, this coat has an accessible style that doesn’t feel too aggressive; you can wear this thing out in the evening and it won’t look like you’re trying too hard. You also wouldn’t think the jacket was as packable as it is, but it will quickly prove you wrong in that regard.

Another nice feature of this jacket is the pockets. I loved the options you get: two at the waist, two at the chest with inward-facing zippers, one hidden zippered compartment on the inside, and a pouch pocket down below. Moreover, the zippers themselves are designed to keep out moisture and, unlike most other jackets , they are all very agreeable and easy to use with a single hand. I avoid most jacket pockets because they’re so impractical but I was using these ones a lot. In terms of wind protection (and coldness protection), the inner sleeve is a nice touch, mimicking the feeling of wearing a compression shirt at the cuff. This also prevents the sleeves from falling too low.

My biggest gripe with the Packaway Jacket is how frustrating it is to use the hood drawstrings. Not only would you have to unzip the jacket about a third of the way down in order to pull the strings but they don’t even remotely remain cinched after you do so. Likewise, the secondary cinches on the outside require two hands to operate, which isn’t ideal. On the other hand, I like the hood shape, which didn’t stick out or fall off despite my hair being up in a bun.

Verdict: If you want a performative rain jacket that doesn’t look like a rain jacket, the L.L.Bean Packaway is the perfect choice, with an accessible style and subtle style points to boot. We loved the hood design, easy-to-use pocket zippers, and the inner sleeves, but the drawstrings on the hood could have been more functional.

Weight: 25.12oz Shell: 100% nylon ripstop Insulation: 60g PrimaLoft DWR?: No Hood?: Yes

• Waist pocket is cleverly designed to keep stuff inside
• Soft and comfy
• Surprising amount of storage

Best Lightweight Jacket: It’s hard to pin down the exact style of this one, but that’s certainly by design. Relwen took the best from a bit of everything and designed this hybrid jacket to be lightweight, wind-resistant, water-resistant, and super warm. It’s filled with 60g of down insulation and an outer shell made of nylon and spandex for a stretchy fit. This is a great travel jacket because it’s very lightweight, making it a solid year-round choice as well.

The first thing you’ll notice with the Relwen Windzip Jacket is how incredibly soft and comfortable it is. I used the word “cozy” with the Patagonia above, and that’s true with this one as well. It was rather cold out when I wore this one, and the Relwen served me well thanks to its synthetic down fill. I wasn’t able to button it up but the thick snap button flap will also aid you when it’s windy .

My favorite part about this coat was the side pockets. I thought the non-zippered pockets would prove to be an issue but most of the time, these zippers are impractical anyway, so Relwen just opted out of them. Instead, it chose to redesign this element. These aren’t just pouches to throw your gear into but are designed to keep your gear inside, despite their open nature. To do this, the pocket drops down once you get inside thanks to a stitched wall that prevents your items from falling out. And if you want a zippered pocket, the Windzip has one as well, located at your chest.

This was the one jacket I tested that was not an XL. I can still wear a Large most of the time, especially in jackets since they naturally are a bit larger anyway. However, this Relwen Windzip was incredibly tight on me. I struggled to get it on and even when I did, it was difficult to activate the zipper down below –– and that’s after I got it past the snap buttons that kept getting in the way. I’ve worn size Large jackets in the past and they’ve never been this tight on me. Regardless though, I still found the jacket form-fitting and even slimming on my body. Honestly, I expected the opposite to be true. On the same note, the top snap button kept falling together when this jacket was unzipped, which felt annoying against my neck to say the least.

Verdict: Warm, soft, and easy-going, the Relwen Windzip Jacket is a versatile jacket for any time of year. We loved the waist pockets which eschewed zippers in favor of a thoughtful open-mouthed design. However, even though we got hands-on with Large (instead of an XL), this coat ran a bit small, making it difficult to zip up and wear comfortably.

Weight: Unspecified Shell: 94% nylon, 6% spandex Insulation: 100% polyester, 60 gram down-alternative DWR?: No Hood?: No

• Good color options
• Sleek aesthetic
• Very lightweight
• Fits firmly
• Runs a bit small; slim fitting
• Not a lot of pockets

Most Stylish: Long are the days when a suit and tie was the norm on a cross-country plane ride, but it still makes perfect sense that you’d want to look good on your jet-setting adventures. To help you with the cause, Mountain Hardwear’s Ghost Whisperer is a slightly high-end jacket with some serious style points. At just 8.8oz of total weight, it can pack into its own pocket, which features an interior carabiner loop. Combining the brand’s proprietary Whisperer ripstop nylon fabric, the shell is insulated with 800-fill power goose down that’s been RDS-certified by the Control Union. Great whether you’re exploring the city or venturing outdoors , the coat is available in five different colors at the moment.

While not as good of a down jacket as the Outdoor Research Helium, the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer still has an edge in regard to its weight, which is about half of the former at just 8.8oz, and its sleek design aesthetic, giving you a nice dose of gloss on the shell. Although we stuck with the black option, we do love the orange and blue options as well. Mountain Hardwear does a good job blending form and function and this is no different.

Where the jacket really excels is its fit. Even though it’s designed more for slim bodies, it’s true-to-size and doesn’t feel slim. There’s plenty of room in the sleeves without them being too roomy or too long; they fall perfectly at the base of the palm. Likewise, I liked how firmly fit I was in this coat, which eliminated any wind that could’ve gotten inside. Overall, this is a very comfortable jacket and will keep you pretty warm, especially considering how light it is.

On the other side of the same coin, the slim fit could also be mistaken as “running small.” In other words, you won’t be able to drop a size here. Similarly, this coat is not very flattering. The horizontal quilting only adds to the accentuating of certain body parts like the belly. Perhaps my least favorite part of the Ghost Whisperer is the pockets. Not only could this use interior pockets or pouches, but the sole pockets, which are at the waist, have finicky zippers that struggle to open and close. And then there’s the price. $360 is a lot to pay for any piece of clothing, especially one that you don’t deem perfect.

Verdict: The lightest insulated jacket in this guide, the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 is stylish, warm, and pretty darn comfortable. Some might say it runs small but if you have the right size, it’s quite form-fitting, almost to a fault. We could’ve used some improvements on the zippered pockets but the main issue here is the price tag, which we had a hard time justifying.

Weight: 8.8oz Shell: Whisperer 10Dx10D ripstop recycled nylon Insulation: 90% goose down, 10% goose feather DWR?: Yes Hood?: Yes

• Widely-accessible style
• Really comfortable
• Tough and rugged shell
• Warm without the extra bulk
• Stands up well to weather
• Pocket zippers are stiff

Best High-End Jacket: If you have some extra-rigorous activities on your travel docket, then you’ll want a jacket that’s purpose-built for mountain treks. Arc’teryx has a lot of really lightweight packable options but this Beta AR (for all-around) is a versatile GORE-TEX-equipped pick that won’t be as overbearing as the mountain options from other brands. Like all other Arc’Teryx pieces, the Beta AR is a minimalistic piece of technologically advanced outerwear that lives up to the Canadian brand’s world-class standard. Equipped with windproof GORE-TEX PRO fabric, the hoodie remains lightweight and willing to tackle the outdoors thanks to its windproof and water-repellent design. Other intuitive features include the helmet-compatible DropHood with an internal collar for extra coverage and a built-in RECCO reflector that will aid you in search-and-rescue situations, just in case they ever occur.

In our hiking jackets guide, I was able to get hands-on with the Arc’teryx Beta Lightweight Jacket, which I loved for its versatility, comfort, and accessible style. And this Beta AR brings all those to a new level. Arguably more rain jacket-looking than its “more affordable” little brother, the Beta AR almost looks like a casual evening coat if it weren’t for the thick, rugged materials and its weather protection properties . As we’ve come to expect from the brand, there aren’t really any aggressive design cues or logos, maintaining its appeal without sacrificing durability. And the GORE-TEX and nylon shell is surprisingly soft to the touch.

The hood here is very big, for better or worse. Even with my hair up, I could take the hood on or off with the jacket zipped all the way up. The drawstring to tighten the hood is effective (and on the outside of the collar, which is not the case with a lot of these types of jackets). To loosen the cinch, you simply press the buttons embedded inside the base of the hood. Likewise, when it’s zipped all the way up, the collar comes up high enough to protect you without shrouding your entire face. The Beta AR is also very warm, which it achieves without any extra bulk or an abundance of insulation.

Like the Beta Lightweight, the Beta AR does fit rather large. It’s a comfortable jacket to wear but it’s admittedly roomy. The sleeves are especially spacious with the cuffs hanging down below my knuckles. Fortunately, the cuffs Velcro for a better fit. The hood is also quite roomy, with the collar digging into my neck when I first tightened it up.

Despite the high-placed front pockets, which makes them ideal for accessing while wearing a backpack, the zippers are difficult to operate single-handedly and are stiff as well. They could also afford to be a bit deeper. However, I did appreciate the small essentials pocket on the inside. And lest we forget to mention the $600 price tag, which most consumers will balk at. This is not a cheap jacket but if you have the money, it’s a no-brainer.

Verdict: While it’s difficult to figure out how this coat gets to be $200 more expensive than Arc’teryx’s Beta Lightweight jacket, the Beta AR would still be my choice if money were no option. It’s expensive, yes, but it fits well, provides warmth without bulk, and keeps you dry. Not to mention, the coat just looks really great with its widely accessible, almost simple aesthetic.

Weight: 16oz Shell: 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro Insulation: N/A DWR?: Yes Hood?: Yes

With countless minor tasks to keep up with beforehand and countless hurdles to jump through at the airport , getting on a plane nowadays has become an obstacle course unto itself. Nevertheless, your trip starts from the moment you start packing, and there is almost nothing worse than filling your suitcase to the brim only to realize the lack of space for any potential souvenirs or gifts you plan on bringing back. Scenarios like this are where the convenience behind packable jackets comes into play, as these compact pieces of outerwear can make a huge difference in your luggage.

Coming in a variety of styles, shapes, and sizes, the packable travel jacket is quintessential for any vacation. The ability to go from providing lush warmth to folding into itself and becoming an inconspicuous accessory is practically the epitome of convenience. However, with so many options on the market, it’s difficult to find one that checks all the boxes: a lightweight carry, seamless storability, and, most importantly, optimized warmth and protection from the elements. So we’ve narrowed it down to light, intuitive, and reliable jackets from trusted labels to help you out. Whether they be hoodies or anoraks, as long as they’re easy to pack away and provide enough weather protection, they can be used as a travel jacket.

REI is always a safe choice when looking for outdoor gear but their house brand also happens to make fantastic budget-friendly options such as this 650 Down Jacket 2.0 , which packs really well.

Fjallraven’s Expedition Pack Down Jacket is incredibly warm and impossibly packable. However, for “best down travel jacket,” we opted for the Outdoor Research Helium instead, which is one of our favorites.

One of our favorite do-anything travel jackets is Marmot’s GORE-TEX Minimalist Component 3-in-1 Jacket , but availability issues kept it off the main list. If you find this one out in the wild though, pick it up!

If you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, check out the Canada Goose Armstrong Hoody . Yeah, it’s about $900, which is a lot, especially if you’re going to be traveling and stuffing this into a suitcase.

While having a packable jacket is ultra-convenient when out and about, it is just as handy to have a sling bag when the scenario calls for it. Luckily, our guide to the  best sling bags  on the market is here to help you accessorize even further.

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10 Best Travel Jackets with Hidden Pockets [Updated 2023]

Sure, you could leave your valuables locked in your bag, but when you are away from home losing a credit card or passport, let alone your phone, can ruin your trip.

At A Glance: Our Top Travel Jackets with Hidden Pockets

• Top Pick for Men Men's SCOTTeVEST Travel Jacket Essential 2.0 Jump To Review
• Top Pick for Women SCOTTeVEST Women's Essential 2.0 Jacket Jump To Review

That is why a good travel jacket (or vest ) with hidden pockets can help keep your things secure. That way you can carry all your essentials and not have to worry.

And in this review I will cover the best options travelers have available – those with enough pockets and hidden places to let you focus on the things that matter when you are traveling – enjoying yourself!

Check out our best picks below, or use the quick navigation to jump to the relevant section (men or women) for you.

Top Product Overview

Best travel jackets with hidden pockets for men, men's scottevest travel jacket essential 2.0.

While it’s great to have everything within reach, the SCOTTeVEST Travel Jacket pays special attention to weight management . That way, even if you have all  25 inner and outer pockets full , you won’t feel lopsided or bulky. Often an issue with this kind of jacket.

The  cotton blend material  keeps this jacket light and airy and the  Teflon treatment makes it water and stain-resistant . It also has  detachable sleeves  for a hotter climate, but it doesn’t have a hood . That means you better reserve one of those pockets for a small umbrella in case it rains.

The organization is good with this jacket despite the many compartments. Outside, there are two large chest pockets with hidden zippers at the top. Inside, a padded pocket can hold an iPad or tablet and a special pocket is fitted with RFID blockers to secure against credit card and data theft.

Two large hand-warmer pockets can also hold a water bottle and extendable/detachable key-holder in the right pocket and ZIP-PIP (zippered pocket-in-pocket) to keep items segregated in the left pocket. There are two interior clear touch pockets so you can use touchscreen devices without taking them out, and several smaller pockets for sunglasses, IDs, pens, and travel documents.

• Excellent weight management and organization
• Many pockets specific to different important items
• Water and stain-resistant

Product Information

• Material: 58% Cotton, 42% Nylon
• Pockets: 24

SCOTTeVEST Men's Pack Windbreaker Jacket with 19 Pockets

The SCOTTeVest Windbreaker Travel Jacket is one of the most affordable options from SOTTeVEST. Which might explain why it’s so popular. And you know you are getting a great travel jacket. After all, they are the brand for travel jackets with pockets!

This model comes with 19 pockets, 14 interiors, and 5 exteriors. Of course, that means you have a spot for just about anything. From your pen and sunglasses to your tablet and phone. I won’t go into detail on all 19, you can read it on their website.

It’s made from 100% Polyester and is also quite a bit lighter than some of the others SCOTTeVest offer. It is 1.2 lbs, so easy to carry around with you in case of a change of weather. It also packs into its own pocket, so it’s easy to stash in a backpack – just in case!

• Lightweight and durable
• 19 pockets for everything you carry
• Reasonable price for such a jacket
• Not great for really cold weather
• No hood or removable sleeves
• Material: 100% Polyester
• Hidden Pockets: 19 - 14 interior, 5 exterior

VERSATYL Unisex Travel Jacket with 18 Pockets

The Versatyl Unisex Travel Jacket is another decent option when you don’t like the   SOTTeVEST options. It’s a little on the heavy side, but still waterproof so will keep your gear dry while you are out and about. There is also a warm hood, and some slide-out hand warmers, so if you are going somewhere cold, this might be a great option.

The biggest highlight of this jacket aside from its reasonably stylish look is the 18 pockets you get. Yes, that’s right – 18! From Napoleon-style chest pockets for things, you want close by to all sorts of internal pockets for more secure items. There are also some less handy pockets like those on the forearm, but you might still find a use for them.

They have also thought about the most essential items like your phone, wallet, passport, and documents. And, there is a handy loop for hanging your wired headphones on the upper inside of the jacket, for when you aren’t listening to your tunes on the go.

Just one major thing to be aware of when purchasing this softshell jacket – it runs small, so grab one size up otherwise you might be busting out of it! Although the zippers are quality YKK affairs, you don’t want to break them.

• Pull-out warmer sleeves
• Ideal for different climates
• Sleeves are longer than usual sizes and fits
• Hidden Pockets: 18

BOMBAX Travel Jacket

The BOMBAX Travel Jacket is a pretty nifty travel jacket. Not only does it carry a lot of stuff in  10 functional pockets , but it also has some fun extras to make your travels more comfortable.

There’s an outer pocket with a flap and another one with a zip. Inside, there are 10 practical hidden pockets where you can hide a tablet, passport, sunglasses, phone, water bottle, power bank, cash, and even a blanket. Once you’ve stashed all your valuables, the  built-in inflatable neck pillow  keeps you comfortable during a long flight.

When you step outside into cold weather, the  built-in gloves  will keep your hands warm and that’s one less thing you have to carry around.

The jacket is made of polyester and is  water-resistant too . It’s a great windbreaker that can protect your jacket and everything inside it from being soaked by rain. So, it’s great for cold and windy climates, but it’s  not made for warmer weather .

• Water-resistant
• Built-in features for more comfortable travel
• Well-designed pockets and organization options
• Neck pillow can be bulky around the neck when not in use
• Material: 60% Cotton 40% Polyester
• Pockets: 10

AyeGear V26 Vest with 26 Pockets

Not everyone likes wearing jackets, especially when it is warm enough out. That is why a secure vest with hidden pockets is also worth considering. It can be carried around and used, or not, depending on the weather conditions too.

This vest from AyeGear has been well thought out in more ways than you can imagine. It has pockets enough for everything you are carrying. Including specific ones for your phone and tablet, along with clear plastic so that you can not only read them but also interact with them! How handy is that?

It’s also designed to be taken off at airport security, so if you want to wear it to/from your destination – no problem at all. Just toss it (lightly!) into the security scanner containers, along with any other electronics, etc.

And in terms of weather, it is wind and waterproof, so in many cases with also means you don’t have to carry another jacket.

• Useful in a lot of different weather - windproof, waterproof
• Specific pockets for electronics that enable them to be used
• Lots of options for all sorts of things
• Bulky when fully stored
• Vest might not be enough in very cold weather
• Material: Nylon
• Pockets: 26
• Weight: 550g

Best Travel Jackets With Hidden Pockets For Women

Scottevest women's essential 2.0 jacket.

When it comes to travel jackets with hidden pockets, SCOTTeVEST has a wide range of designs and uses. Their Women’s Essential 2.0 Jacket is a no-frills travel jacket that helps you carry everything you need.

There are  25 external and hidden pockets  meant to house all your gadgets and essentials. There are also dedicated pockets to hold phones, tablets, wallets, keys, accessories, water bottles, and sunglasses.

Like all SCOTTeVEST products, its Weight Management System  is the kicker to avoid bulging and uneven weight distribution.

It’s also a versatile jacket with  detachable sleeves  if you want to convert it to a vest. The material is  Teflon coated for water resistance , but the jacket has  no hood . It’s more suitable for light weather with lots of sunlight, or just carry a folding umbrella in one of the many pockets.

• Detachable sleeves
• Material: Cotton with Teflon coating
• Pockets: 25

BOMBAX Women 10 Pocket Travel Jacket Hoodie

A jacket you will love while traveling for sure, this one from Bombax has the ever-important hidden pockets, of course.

But also, a built-in blow-up pillow and eye-mask so you can keep it on and still fall asleep on the plane or bus. Without worrying about all your belongings! And before you wonder what you are going to do with the hood, you can remove that too.

There are 10 hidden pockets, as well as 6 standard pockets on the outside, so you will have more than enough space for all your gear. Yes, space for your phone, tablet, documents, passport, and more.

Oh, and there is an earphone hook on the top, so you can pass through security without having to remove everything or just listen to those peaceful in-flight announcements we all know and love.

• Removable hood
• Built-in blowup pillow & eye-mask
• Material: 50% Cotton/Polyester Blend
• Hidden Pockets: 10

SCOTTeVEST Women's Chloe Hoodie Jacket

For winter travelers , the SCOTTeVEST Women’s Chloe Hoodie Jacket will keep you  warm and cozy with a heavyweight fleece . It’s made with  100% polyester and is a lightweight way to keep warm while you are traveling .

It has a decent number of pockets  14 to be exact. This means there is plenty of space for all your gadgets, gizmos, and personal items. There are also a couple of external hand-warming pockets and one specifically for change.

The addition of a hood on this particular travel jacket means that it adds that extra warmth when things get cold or windy. This is always a bonus when you are out for the day in a foreign city and don’t want to go back to grab another sweater.

And, unlike a lot of the other jackets from SCOTTeVest, this one is super affordable at just under $100.

• Warm layer for on the go
• Hood gives extra warm
• Enough pockets for all your everyday travel items
• Might need an additional rain jacket with you
• Pockets: 14

SCOTTeVEST Women's Trench Coat

The SCOTTeVEST Women’s Trench Coat is a great addition to any wardrobe. The  classic style  is great for any travel but also  works for daily wear whether casual or business .

With the longer garment than a jacket, the coat’s  18 pockets  are larger, easier to access, and can hold a lot more items equivalent to a travel purse. While it’s still not the best replacement for a bag altogether, it significantly lessens the number of items you have in your purse or carry-on.

As with all SCOTTeVEST garments, the  Weight Management System  keeps the coat from being too heavy or bulky. Add to that the  sleek lines and the belt  and you will have a slimming shape even if your pockets are full.

The coat is  water and stain-resistant , so you can walk through a downpour and keep yourself and your gadgets dry. The length of the coat also offers more protection than a jacket.

Despite its construction and material, it’s still  machine washable  making it easy to maintain and store. Unfortunately, it  doesn’t come with a hood .

Also, knowing where you put your phone can be a challenge at first because  some pockets are too deep  and will be more troublesome than convenient.

• Weather-resistant
• Classic style and design
• Larger pockets
• Some pockets are too deep
• Material: DWR Nano poly fabric
• Pockets: 18

Baubax Travel Jacket

The Baubax Travel Jacket is a startup hit , crowdsourcing a total of $9.2 million on Kickstarter and $11.5 million on Indiegogo On Demand.

It comes in  four styles : windbreaker, sweatshirt, blazer, and bomber jacket. Of all the versions, the Bomber jacket is the most well designed, does NOT look like a travel jacket, and will fit any urban or adventure setting.

It  is heavier than the other styles , but it’s  thicker and sturdier  and will hold up well even in cold climates.

It’s  built with lots of features and pockets  to keep you from having to dig into your bag the whole time. The jacket has nine utility pockets (six of which are hidden), an attached pen stylus, built-in gloves, and hand warmers, and a built-in neck pillow and eye mask. Yes, it has everything!

Sizes run small  for Bomber jackets, so make sure you get the measurements right. The material doesn’t stretch, but it’s machine washable.

• Stylish design
• Lots of built-in features
• Inconsistent sizing

What to look for in a Travel Jacket or Vest

The main point of finding a jacket with hidden pockets is fitting everything you need inside. More pockets are not necessarily better. Some pockets are too small to be functional. Too many pockets will also just give you a more difficult time looking for what you need. Too few, on the other hand, leaves you with items that have no place in the jacket.

There are some pockets with plastic panels so you can see your phone without taking it out. They are super-handy, but come at a price, If you need to machine wash or toss the jacket in the dryer, this plastic panel can melt. So, be careful.

Also, make sure that closures are secure so your items don’t accidentally fall out of the jacket. This could just mean a zipper, or similar, but have a think about what you are going to put where, and how secure (in terms of falling out) it is going to be.

The jackets in this review are made from a variety of materials, so it pays to know what you want it to do, in terms of warmth or weather, before you buy it.

Not all travel jackets are water-resistant or waterproof. For example, there are travel jackets made like a sweater, so it will keep you warm but not dry. So, you will need another one to go over the top if it rains (or you can simply use an umbrella)

Waterproof jackets will keep you dry but can be too hot if you’ll be traveling to warmer climates or doing lots of exercises. It pays to be flexible in what you wear when traveling, so keep layering in mind.

A lot of jackets have hoods, which can be great against the wind or to sleep in a plane. But they are not a style everyone likes, as they are quite casual.

Others have built-in features like pillows and eye masks, but can be too bulky when not in use. So, don’t overdo it on the features unless you really need them. Find a design that fits your style of travel the best.

If you don’t need a hood, then hoodless jackets can still be a great option. And bells and whistles are often more hassles than they are worth. Stick with what you need, and focus on the security features that are going to protect your most important possessions.

The Best Travel Jacket For You

There are two reasons why you are looking for a travel jacket with lots of pockets: convenience and fewer baggage fees.

Travel jackets are similar in many ways, but the way these pockets are designed and secured makes all the difference. The best lookout when choosing your jacket is how easy it will be for you to get your stuff out of the pockets and, of course, how much protection you can get from the climate.

For men, the  Bombax Travel Jacket  has everything you need. The built-in pillow and eye mask are great for long-haul flights or emergency naps. It has enough pockets to store your things, and it’s weather-resistant to protect you from rain and cold weather. The manly and modern design also makes you look stylish wherever you go.

• ▶[ABOUT SIZES OF BOMBAX BOMBER JACKET]: Please check our size chart as picture (not Amazon size chart) listed on the left part of the listing.The jacket is measured in flat [ITS THE ASIAN SIZE,please check the size image as left]
• ▶[10 PRACTICAL POCKETS/16 in 1 FEATURES FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS]: this 16 in 1 multi-pockets travel bomber jacket comes with 10 practical hidden pockets,which includes neck pillow,eye mask,tablet/passport/sunglasses/phone/bottle/power bank/blanket/hand warming/change pocket,earphone holder,2 in 1 pen and Microfiber Cloth to covers all your needs in the trip.

For women, the  SCOTTeVESTJacket   is light, functional, and versatile. It has detachable sleeves should you find things getting a little hot, and it has ingenious pockets to keep everything you need close to you. It’s also very easy to pack thanks to its lightweight material if you decide not to use it sometime during your trip.

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These are the best packable travel jackets on the market.

T raveling in winter — or anytime when weather isn’t balmy and consistent — presents a unique set of challenges. One of those is bringing the right jacket, and not letting that jacket take up too much room in your luggage. The best travel jackets on the market today are packable — meaning they compact, often into a case that accompanies the jacket — for easy stowing.  Matador’s  travel editors and writers have tested dozens of travel jackets, and these are our favorites. Each pack easily and will keep you warm and dry.

Shopping for a packable travel jacket? Check out Matador’s detailed reviews: The Orvis Pro Insulated Hoody is a Go-Everywhere Jacket That Turns Into a Travel Pillow  This Packable Rain Jacket Will Keep You Bone Dry, Even In Torrential Rain Patagonia’s Houdini® Air Jacket Is The Perfect Packable Light Jacket Patagonia’s Micro Puff Hoody Is Perfect For Winter Travels The Cotopaxi Fuego Is the Most Durable and Dependable Down Jacket on the Market Arc’Teryx Made The World’s Most Packable Puffy Jacket

We hope you love these packable travel jackets! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Jump to a review:

Arc’Teryx Cerium Hybrid Hoody Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket Patagonia’s Micro Puff® Hoody Patagonia’s Houdini® Air Jacket Jack Wolfskin’s Pack & Go Shell Orvis Pro Insulated Hoody

Packable travel jackets: Rundown of top options

Arc’teryx cerium hybrid hoody.

• Built to Last: The Cerium is crafted with premium materials and innovative construction for lasting performance.
• Breathable Warmth: The details. Fortius™ Air 50 outer shell offers exceptional breathability for extended comfort, while ethically sourced 850-fill European white goose down delivers superior warmth without the bulkiness of synthetics.
• Packable Prowess: Forget wrestling with bulky jackets. Arc’teryx ditches the standard puffy panels in favor of a sleeker design with thinner segments, making the Cerium a champion of easy rolling and packing.

Arc’teryx, forged in the fires of the mountain climbing scene, Arc’Teryx knows the importance of crafting quality gear that stands the test of time – and many perilous situations along the way.

The Cerium boasts a dynamic outer shell called Fortius™ Air 50. This blend of 84% nylon and 16% elastane breathes brilliantly, ensuring long-lasting comfort even on extended treks. Inside, ethically sourced 850-fill European white goose down traps warmth without the bulk or weight of synthetic alternatives.

But the Cerium’s genius lies not just in its materials, but in its construction. Arc’teryx has ditched the standard puffy panels for a sleeker design with thinner segments. This clever trick makes rolling and packing the Cerium a breeze, a stark contrast to bulkier competitors that leave you wrestling with awkward compartments. With its smart material choices and innovative design, the Cerium is a testament to Arc’teryx’s commitment to creating gear that’s as durable as it is packable, ready to conquer any adventure you throw its way. -Brett Braley

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Arc’Teryx Cerium Hybrid Hoody

Price: $400

Buy Now – Men’s

Buy Now – Women’s

Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket

• RDS-certified, responsibly-sourced 800-fill goose down
• Polartec Alpha underarm insulation and DWR-finished ripstop nylon shell
• Looks cool with any manner of mountain fashion, and is super comfortable

The Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket is a great choice for anyone looking for a warm, packable, and stylish jacket. It’s made with RDS-certified, responsibly-sourced 800-fill goose down, so you can feel good knowing that your purchase supports ethical down companies. The jacket also features Polartec Alpha underarm insulation, which helps to prevent the swishy sound that puffy jackets are known for.

I’ve had my Fuego for over a year now, and I’ve been really impressed with it. It’s kept me warm in everything from cold fall days to snowy winter hikes. The DWR-finished ripstop nylon shell has held up well to everything I’ve thrown at it, and the elastic binding on the bottom of the jacket has helped to keep the cold air out. One of the things I love most about the Fuego is that it’s not bulky or awkward. I can wear it out to dinner or to happy hour, and it always looks great. It’s also super packable, so it’s easy to take with me on trips. -Tim Wenger

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket

Price: From $199

Patagonia’s Micro Puff® Hoody

• The good: Extremely lightweight, zippered outside pockets, windproof, center-front zipper goes all the way above the chin, packs into an 11.5 x 6.5-inch rectangle.
• The bad: Water resistant but not waterproof, makes the wearer’s head look like an egg when zipped all the way up with the hood on.

Don’t be fooled by the name of this puffy by Patagonia: It’s much more than a hoodie, it’s a proper winter jacket that’s as versatile as it is practical. You can certainly wear it in early fall over a long-sleeve shirt to protect you from the season’s chilly air, but it is also appropriate for wearing in colder weather on top of multiple layers to keep you toasty when the temperatures plummet or the wind picks up. While the tight elastic cuffs and hood, as well as the drawstrings at the hem, help keep the wind out, note that because it’s water resistant but not waterproof, the Micro Puff is not meant for playing in the wet snow or in heavy rain falls. Also, while it’s warm, it’s not the jacket you want in extremely cold temperatures (20 degrees should be the cut-off.) That said, if you get caught in a downpour, know that Patagonia’s Micro Puff dries extremely fast.

My partner took his Micro Puff with him on a 10-day trip to Iceland in September and it proved to be the perfect travel jacket for the fall weather on this near-Arctic island nation. It was warm enough to protect him when exposed to the wind during hikes and it was sufficiently water-resistant for the few showers we experienced.

The biggest asset of Patagonia’s Micro Puff is its ridiculously lightweight (10.5 ounces or 298 grams) and its capacity to pack into an 11.5 x 6.5-inch rectangle by being stuffed into the left pocket. This jacket will take minimum space in your carry-on or checked luggage, but you can also just toss it in a small backpack in case you need it, whether you’re going for an urban walk or a hike.

The shell of Patagonia’s Micro Puff is made of 100 percent post-consumer recycled nylon and its insulation is made of an extremely durable 100 percent recycled polyester developed by Patagonia that’s warm like down plumes but much lighter and way more ethical. – Morgane Croissant

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Patagonia Micro Puff jacket

Price: $329

Patagonia’s Houdini® Air Jacket

• The good: As light as a feather, packs into a rectangle that fits in the palm of your hand, extremely breathable, very comfortable, zippered chest pocket for small items.
• The bad: Water resistant but not waterproof, not warm

Patagonia’s Houdini® Air Jacket is not one you take with you to a destination where you know you’ll have to face low temperatures, high winds, and heavy rain. It’s meant for keeping you warm and dry during intense outdoor activities in mild temperatures and in case of a sprinkle. It’s the perfect jacket if you jog at dawn or at dusk and want to keep the chill away from your body when you sweat, or if you go for a bike ride or hike and want to make sure you have some protection in case the weather turns. The elasticized cuffs and the drawstrings on the hem and the hood keep the wind out. It’s best worn on top of a base layer or quick-dry t-shirt, not under a bulky sweater. The cut of the jacket is meant to facilitate your movements, allowing you to keep going in comfort, no matter what. When wet, Patagonia’s Houdini Air Jacket dries at record speed.

My partner took his Houdini Air Jacket (as well as his Micro Puff) with him on a hike-filled trip to Iceland in September and it came in handy when the weather was sunny and warmish, but he needed something to wear on the chilly way up the side of a volcano or after a sweaty hike. It’s very breathable so your clothes are not trapped in a damp and sweaty shell even while you give it your all in the outdoors.

Because it’s so incredibly tiny when packed into its stuff sack (7 x 3.5 inches), it’s worth adding to your luggage, whether that be your checked suitcase, your smaller carry-on, or your backpack. It’s smaller and lighter (4.1 ounces or 116 grams) than a balled-up pair of socks. – Morgane Croissant

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Patagonia Houdini Air jacket

Price: $179

Jack Wolfskin’s Pack & Go Shell

• The good: Extremely waterproof, windproof, breathable, very light, packs into a small trapezoid, zippered side pockets.
• The bad: Only two pockets, not warm (it’s a shell), few choices of color

Jack Wolfskin’s Pack and Go Shell is a no-frills, rainproof, and windproof shell that does exactly what it’s meant to do: Keep you bone dry even in heavy rain, and safe from blowing winds. It’s also very breathable so you can wear it while hiking without fearing dampness. Note that because it’s a shell, it won’t keep you warm in low temperatures, but layering underneath it is always an option.

The best feature of this jacket is, of course, its packability. The left pocket doubles as a stow pouch. After stuffing it in, you’ll be left with a light (11.6 ounces or 330 grams), 9.8 x 7-inch trapezoid that you can throw in any bag or luggage. But there’s more to praise about this package jacket: The fabric is soft, not crinkly, and barely wrinkles; the hood, the hem, and the sleeves are adjustable so no drop of rain or draft can get to you; and the two side pockets are deep and can be zipped shut so your belongings don’t escape. My personal favorite detail is the zipper pulls, which are the perfect length and are covered in a grippy material that feels lovely on your fingers. (Every little thing counts when you spend a lot of time outdoors in the wet.)

Jack Wolfskin’s choice of color for this packable jacket, for both men and women, is thin (three colors available for men and four for women), so here’s hoping they have a bigger selection in the future. I went for the hedge green while my partner has the night blue version, both of which are discreet and work just as well in the great outdoors as in any urban setting.

After looking at the size chart on Jack Wolfskin’s website, I was advised to order a size XL. It seemed surprisingly big since I’m usually a size M, but I decided to follow the brand’s guidance. Upon receiving it, the jacket was unfortunately too large, as initially expected. I placed a new order for a size L jacket and it’s a perfect fit. I would advise to order one size up if you’re in between sizes, especially if you plan to wear layers underneath. – Morgane Croissant

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Jack Wolfskin Pack and Go Shell

Price: $120.49 for men’s, $131.20 for women’s

Orvis Pro Insulated Hoody

• Warm and sweat-free, thanks to underarm panels and high-end insulation
• Thoughtful features like fleece-lined pockets and reinforced cuffs
• Excellent water- and wind-proofing
• Packs into a travel pillow

After a year of throwing it headfirst into every adventure imaginable, my Orvis Pro Insulated Hoodie shows barely a whisper of wear. The high-tech insulation keeps me toasty warm without suffocating sweat, thanks to those genius underarm panels. Even the smallest details impress – fleece-lined pockets to pamper my chilly fingers and reinforced cuffs that shrug off snags and rips. And did I mention it repels rain and wind like a champ? But the real kicker? This trusty hoody magically transforms into a comfy travel pillow. Unbelievable versatility, unwavering performance – the Orvis Pro Hoodie has become my go-to gear, no matter the weather or the wildness. -Suzie Dundas

Check out Matador’s detailed review of the Orvis Pro Insulated Hoody

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16 Lightweight Jackets That Will Still Keep You Warm

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If you're an avid traveler, the word “packable” is music to your ears—space in a carry-on or checked bag is always precious, and any chance to save it is appreciated. But even if you aren't traveling far this fall, there's much to be said for a packable jacket that'll keep you warm and dry, without the bulk. An extra layer thrown in at the last minute might be the thing that saves you on a colder-than-expected ski trip or fall camping adventure ; that backup raincoat might be the insurance you need when bad weather threatens to ruin your day on the trails. For those situations and beyond, we turn to packable jackets that are no-brainers to bring along, just in case. 

Because there are many scrunch-up-to-the-size-of-your-fist layers out there, and not all are created equal, we've rounded up the very best packable jackets—from down-filled puffers to weatherproof rain shells and everything in between. Read on for our top recommendations.

• Puffer jackets  
• Rain jackets  

Fleece jackets

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Puffer jackets 

The best packable jackets have a high ratio of warmth to size-when-packed—and this hooded puffer from Fjällräven deserves top marks for just that. Made of a slinky, lightweight fabric (and stuffed with 100 percent recycled materials), this jacket takes up minimal space when packed into its own pocket, yet serves as a substantial insulating or primary layer. The fit is also cut to flatter, and comes in a basic black, navy, forest green, or a terra-cotta brown. 

Available in : Women's sizes 2XS–XL; men's sizes XS–2XL 

As far as trustworthy jackets go, you can't go wrong with the Patagonia Nano Puff. Available in both men's and women's sizes, this year-round essential is windproof, water-resistant, and wrapped in a 100 percent recycled polyester shell and lining. Made of highly compressible PrimaLoft insulation, this ultra-lightweight jacket packs up tightly in any carry-on. It also features two zippered hand warmer pockets and an adjustable drop-tail hem to seal in extra warmth.

Available in : Women's sizes 2XS–2XL; men's sizes XS–3XL 

For all the warmth of a true puffer without the extreme bulk, pack the Aconcagua 3 hoodie from The North Face on your next winter adventure. Its recycled polyester sheet insulation will keep you warm even if you get caught in the rain and its zippered hand warmer pockets will definitely come in handy the next time it snows. As with everything at The North Face, it has a lifetime warranty.

Available in : Women's sizes XS–3XL; men's sizes S–2XL

Lululemon is known for its high-quality, made-to-last activewear , and this travel-friendly down jacket is just as lovable. Not only is this slim fit jacket sleek and flattering, it's also windproof, water-resistant, and features two-way stretch, making it a great option for whatever weather arises on your next day trip. The jacket's ThermoControl construction helps evenly distribute insulation and reduce bulk—so overpackers can bring this along, too. 

Available in : Women's sizes 0–14 

Perfectly named the Packable Puffer, this lightweight jacket from Girlfriend Collective is just what you need on a chilly night outdoors. When the weather isn't quite cold enough for a full puffer, this one gives just enough warmth with its outer shell and filling that are made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles. It's also wind-resistant, water-repellent, and offers a relaxed fit for maximum comfort. The best part? It packs down to fit in its built-in bag, taking up as little suitcase room as possible. 

Available in : Women's sizes 2XS–6XL

The wide range of sizes available isn't the only thing we love about the Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded down jacket. Packed with 800-fill-power goose down, this jacket locks in insulation to keep you warm while still being thin enough to fit in your suitcase and layer well with another sweatshirt or coat. Whether you're planning a cabin getaway this fall or headed camping next spring, the Cotopaxi jacket has you covered. 

Available in : Women's sizes 2XS–3XL; men's sizes XS–4XL

Containing 100 percent vegan down and PrimaLoft insulation, this chic puffer delivers as much style as it does warmth. The Pillow Puff is designed to keep you warm in temperatures as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit and is made of a water-repellent fabric, making it a great option for early morning hikes or city walking tours. Choose from colors like purple, pink, black, gray, blush, and more in a soft, matte finish. (This Pillow Puff style is available in a vest version , too.)

Available in : Women's sizes 2XS–XL

Rain jackets

For a short, no-nonsense rain jacket that will keep you dry—and keep a low profile—Columbia's Arcadia II (for women) and Watertight II (for men) are trusted go-to's. Not only do these jackets have thoughtful details like a storm hood and breathable mesh lining ( great for hiking ), they're also no-joke waterproof. The seams are completely sealed, the pockets are zippered, and there's a drawstring at the bottom so you and your stuff will be protected no matter how bad the downpour. These coats come in a dozen colors, range in sizes from XS to 3X for women, and are available in both bigger and taller options for men. (There are also kids' sizes if the whole family wants to match.) 

Available in: Women's sizes XS–3X

Another Columbia option we recommend is the best-selling Glennaker rain jacket. Made of completely waterproof nylon fabric, this tried-and-true jacket will keep you protected during a downpour. It's ultra lightweight, making it a great rain coat year-round and is compact enough to fit in even a duffel bag . With a stowaway hood, zippered front pockets, and adjustable sleeve cuffs, it's warm, functional, and versatile enough to wear no matter what's on the itinerary. 

Available in : Men's sizes S–6XL, plus tall options

If you're on the hunt for a durable option to wear biking, hiking, or working outdoors, the Carharrt Rain defender is the perfect everyday jacket to throw on. It's insulated and quilted so it will keep you warm without the bulk and weight of a heavy coat. The water-repellent coating will keep you protected through rainy or snowy days, and there are plenty of pockets for your phone, AirPods, or keys. 

Available in : Men's sizes S–4XL, plus tall options

A simple yet sleek option for travelers to wear everywhere is the Torrentshell 3L rain jacket. It packs up to fit in its front pocket—taking up little space in your carry-on, so you don't need to feel guilty about throwing it in your suitcase last minute for those “what if” scenarios. This breathable, light-as-air rain jacket is completely waterproof and is made to last for years. It also features a two-way-adjustable hood and a micro-fleece-lined neck to provide a comfortable waterproof yet breathable barrier. Choose from a variety of colors, including wool white (pictured), mauve, black, blue, plum, and more. 

Available in : Women's sizes XS–2XL; men's sizes XS–3XL 

Our editors swear by athleisure from Vuori , a sustainable brand prioritizing ethically made, high-quality performance clothing. Made of an 100 percent recycled polyester shell, the Oahu rain jacket delivers completely seam-sealed waterproof protection. It features a duckbill hood, power mesh lining, and a durable coating designed to withstand heavy rain. Fold it up tightly in your carry-on just in case.

Available in: Men's sizes S–2XL 

L.L.Bean's sherpa fleece jacket offers major cozy-up-around-the-campfire vibes. It's casual enough to wear around the house or for outdoor adventures when you want something warm, soft, and reliable. The taffeta lined sleeves and slightly fitted design make it all the more comfy. It's available in plenty of fall-friendly colors and in regular, petite, and plus sizes. 

Available in : Women's sizes 2XS–XL, plus petite and plus sizes 

I wore this cozy sherpa jacket from Vuori nonstop last year—and I can't wait to pull it out again as soon as the temperature dips. It's the perfect in-between jacket: Warm and soft enough for cold fall morning walks, and light enough to wear into early spring. I wore it just as easily on a trip to Boston last November as I did on an early morning hike in April. As much as I love wearing this cute jacket on its own, it's equally functional for layering under larger coats in the winter . Made from recycled materials, the sherpa fleece locks in heat and there are two zippered hand pockets for small must-haves. My favorite thing about the Vuori sherpa jacket: It is incredibly well-made and will be a permanent resident in my closet for years to come. 

Available in : Women's sizes XS–XL

Canada Goose is know for its top-quality outerwear, and the Kelowna fleece jacket is no exception. It keeps you warm and comfortable while still looking put together, making it an obvious companion for upcoming getaways to see fall foliage . It features three exterior pockets, rib-knit cuffs, reflective detail on the collar for nighttime or early morning visibility, and Canada Goose's signature logo on the sleeve. The brand's mission is to reduce its impact on the planet; as such, this jacket is made of primarily recycled wool.

Available in : Men's sizes 2XS–2XL

A lightweight, packable staple for winter trips is the Columbia Steens Mountain fleece jacket that has over 35,000 reviews and 4.7 stars on Amazon. The collared neck and zippered closure help lock in heat and keep you protected on extra cold day trips. Whether you're heading on a winter ski trip or planning a cabin getaway, you'll be grateful to have this essential layering piece handy. 

Available in : Men's sizes S–6XL, plus tall options 

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Best Travel Jacket for One Bag Travel

We’ve made it easy to find the best travel jacket for your next trip, whether you’re looking for something to keep you warm, dry, or both.

Some of our best travel memories are bound to happen in the rain, cold, and snow. The key to ensuring that the weather doesn't put a damper on your trip is to be prepared with a proper travel jacket, which can sometimes feel daunting to find. There are hundreds of options, each with unique qualities and features. That's where we come in.

A travel jacket is one of many ways to stay dry, warm, and happy. Just because a jacket can do those things doesn't mean it's great for travel—it has to fit inside your travel backpack , daypack , or even sling , when not in use. It can't keep you comfortable if you can't bring it with you!

Are you looking for something that will keep you dry but not too hot in warmer climates? Or is warmth your biggest concern and anything else an added bonus? The best travel jacket depends on many factors, and we'll cover them all in this post. Let's dive in!

• Patagonia Nano Puff
• Western Rise AirLoft Hooded Jacket
• Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket
• REI 650 Down Jacket 2.0
• Patagonia Storm10 Jacket
• Amazon Essentials Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Puffer Jacket
• Montbell Plasma 1000 Down Jacket
• Carhartt Rain Defender Relaxed Fit Lightweight Jacket
• Dickies Insulated Eisenhower Jacket
• Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka
• Columbia Pouration Rain Jacket
• Cotopaxi Teca Calido Hooded Jacket

Best for: Full-time Travelers

Why We Like It: Extremely packable for a puffer jacket

What To Know: Not as warm or lightweight as other offerings from Patagonia

When picking a lightweight travel jacket, finding one that is warm without taking up too much space is imperative. The Patagonia Nano Puff fits the bill—keeping you comfortable when you need it most and packing down to fit into the palm of your hand. The exterior Polyester has a DWR coating to keep you dry, too. The interior utilizes PrimaLoft® Synthetic Insulation to ensure that you don’t get cold—and, most importantly, not need to seek out another travel jacket. Complete with YKK zippers, this jacket is built to last.

If you want something a little warmer, go with the Patagonia Macro Puff , and if you want something a little more lightweight, go with the Patagonia Micro Puff . Whereas all three of these jackets get the job done (we wrote an entire post post about it), the Nano Puff is the best of the three, we think.

Best for: Professional Travelers

Why We Like It: It’s a casual jacket that gets the job done for most trips

What To Know: The hood can be awkward to wear

Not every trip calls for something highly technical, though having a dedicated travel jacket is key to having a comfortable trip. The Western Rise Airloft Hooded Jacket doesn’t compress as small as others on this list, but it has a casual look that is just as at home on the trail as it is crossing the city. It’s crafted from polyester and uses YKK zippers, both of which suit it well in use as a casual travel jacket.

Another aspect that we dig is that it has a baffle-less design (no stitching lines that hold insulation in place), which we feel enables it to fit in while exploring urban environments more than its baffled counterparts. The hood is quite tight, which feels a little hypebeast-y, but it offers warmth when you forget to bring a hat along and the wind whips wickedly. If you want a more low-key travel jacket that still gets the job done, the Western Rise Airloft Hooded Jacket is worth consideration.

Best for: Relaxed Travelers

Why We Like It: An extremely water resistant jacket that has all the features we’re used to, all in a lightweight package

What To Know: Runs a little short if you’re on the taller side

Most of us have a jacket at home that does everything we need it to, but weighs more than we'd like to lug around in use as a travel jacket. The Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket has all of the features we've come to expect from a standard jacket wrapped in an ultralight package to ensure you aren't weighed down at the airport or when crossing the city. The jacket is highly water resistant, so a little rain won't ruin your trip across Central London.

When the clouds disperse and the sun hits your eye as it peeks past Big Ben, this lightweight travel jacket packs down to roughly the size of a soda can so you can stow it away in your travel backpack or daypack until the English weather decides to rain on your parade again. It's a great piece of gear to throw in your pack whether you think you'll need it or not, as it takes up a tiny amount of space. Go ahead, put it on your packing list right now!

Why We Like It: The warmth to weight ratio is off the charts

What To Know: It doesn’t compress as well as we thought it would

If you’re someone who tends to watch their weight while packing to ensure you don’t get any fines at the airport, getting a travel jacket with an excellent warmth to weight ratio is a good bet. The lightweight REI 650 Down Jacket 2.0 ensures you don’t get flagged at check-in and aren’t stuck sweating with your jacket on at the gate. Plus, you’ll be warm enough in even the chilliest climates.

Men’s and women’s versions are available, so you can get the perfect fit no matter your body shape. The jacket is crafted from nylon and has YKK zippers, both of which hold up well over time. It isn’t the smallest jacket when compressed, though the warmth to weight ratio makes it well worth including on this list.

Why We Like It: Lightweight, extraordinarily water resistant, and breathable for warmer adventures

What To Know: On cooler adventures, it won’t keep you warm as a standalone jacket

Some adventures don’t need warmth as much as wind and water protection, and Patagonia has a solution. Their Storm10 jacket will keep you dry and safe from the wicked wind while remaining breathable to ensure you don’t get too sweaty under the hood. It’s crafted from Ripstop Nylon, complete with a DWR coating that’s lightweight yet extremely water resistant and durable.

It packs into its breast pocket, and once you have it stowed, it fits comfortably into the palm of your hand. Whether the forecast calls for sunshine or thunderstorms, it’s well worth keeping this lightweight travel jacket in your daypack or sling for the peace of mind it offers while crossing the city, country, or globe.

Why We Like It: A budget-friendly option for those just getting into travel

What To Know: Isn’t great in cooler temperatures and lacks some of the features we’re used to

A travel jacket needs to keep you warm—but if you’re just jumping into exploring the world, you might not have the budget for some of the more expensive versions out there. Or, maybe you typically head to beach resorts, but your cousin is getting married in Winnipeg, and you’re only going to need to grab a travel jacket for this trip. Whatever the reason, the Amazon Essentials Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Puffer Jacket picks a few features from some of the best models available, like packability and a detachable stuff sack, and packs them into a lower price point.

It’s crafted from Nylon and Polyester and uses YKK zippers, which is par for the course as far as a travel jacket is concerned. It won’t keep you as warm as a model that costs seven times as much, but it's a good option for someone just getting into travel or a jacket you aren’t going to use often!

Why We Like It: A no-frills design that saves weight and keeps you warm

What To Know: It doesn’t have pockets, which is awkward in daily use

When it comes to travel jacket design, the Montbell Plasma 1000 Down Jacket is one of our favorites on the market. It’s designed with care to ensure that it keeps you warm using high-quality goose down materials, is highly compressible to save space in your pack when you need it most, and weighs less than most of the options on this list. The nylon exterior has a DWR coating to ensure you stay dry, and the YKK zippers are a staple of quality as far as we're concerned.

The only downside is that this thing doesn't have a single pocket. None for your hands, none on the interior, none at all! Montbell cut them out completely, which saves a lot of weight. For those who dig carrying a purse or sling, this may not be an issue. However, it may be a dealbreaker for those accustomed to shoving everything inside the pockets of their travel jacket.

Why We Like It: Low-key look that can handle unexpected changes in weather

What To Know: Difficult to pack inside a smaller bag

When packing for a casual weekend trip in moderate weather, you may not have room in your carry-on for a raincoat and a more casual jacket. The Carhartt Rain Defender® Relaxed Fit Lightweight Jacket is the best of both worlds—offering protection in light rain and a subdued look that works as well at a bar as it does at a housewarming party in Cheboygan for your best friend who moved across the country.

Although it isn’t necessarily a standard travel jacket, it’s crafted from 100% nylon and as durable as you’d expect something from Carhartt to be. If you want something a little warmer, there’s an insulated version, too, but we dig this model for its versatility.

Why We Like It: A stylish option that can be dressed up or down and still keeps you warm and dry

What To Know: Not a traditional packable jacket

When most people think travel jacket, they think of baffled exteriors and their lines of stitching, stuffing the coat into its own pocket, and 1990’s wind pant materials. As much as we love these jackets (seriously, we have dozens of them), sometimes it’s nice to opt for something with sleeker lines and a more minimalistic profile.

The Dickies Insulated Eisenhower Jacket offers just that—with water resistance and durability to boot. The exterior is crafted from 65% polyester and 35% cotton with a poly coating and the lining is 100% nylon–all of which come together to create a sleek jacket that can be dressed up or down. Plus, it keeps you warm when the temperature drops and is more durable than a standard travel jacket.

Why We Like It: It’s three jackets in one, so you have an option for all weather conditions

What To Know: The jacket is packable, though it’s larger than most items on this list

While exploring the world, knowing what you're getting yourself into is tough. Whether you're venturing across the mountains of Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula or the outskirts of the Gobi Desert in Mongolia, it's best to be prepared for anything Mother Nature could throw at you. The Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka can be worn three ways depending on the weather, so you're ready no matter what crosses your path.

The jacket comes in two parts and has three different styles. The first option is to wear the waterproof yet breathable shell when the weather isn't too cold but you want protection from the rain. Or, just wear the insulated jacket when the skies are clear but the temperature is chilly. Last, you can combine the two when the weather looks stormy and the temperature starts to drop. You might be thinking, wow, there's no way this thing is meant to be used as a travel jacket. Well—it does stuff into the breast pocket, but it isn't very small once you've packed it. It's better suited to fit inside a travel backpack or checked baggage, though when you arrive and it's below freezing, you'll be happy that you brought it along!

Best for: Frugal Travelers

Why We Like It: The hood stows away when you don’t need it.

What To Know: It doesn’t pack into as small a package as other jackets.

There’s nothing more unpredictable than the weather, so we like to pack a rain jacket wherever we go. The Columbia Pouration Jacket will keep you dry, and it can be layered to keep you warm, too. After all, those base layers and Merino wool clothing won’t keep you toasty if they get wet. This jacket packs into itself, an essential component of a travel jacket, to be sure. And while its compressed size isn’t as small as others we’ve tested, it’s still excellent to slot into your travel backpack and comes in at a budget price point.

Columbia hasn’t skimped on the features with this jacket, either. You’ll find underarm venting for breathability since no one wants a rain jacket that feels like wearing a garbage bag. Plus, you can find the best fit for you with adjustable cuffs and hem. When it’s not raining, the hood stows away for a sleeker look.

Best for: Sustainable Travelers

Why We Like It: It gives new life to repurposed fabric.

What To Know: The hood is quite large.

If you’re looking for sustainability, this is the jacket for you. The insulation is recycled polyester and repurposed taffeta, so the coat requires fewer virgin materials. Plus, the Teca Calido Hooded Jacket from Cotopaxi is reversible, so you have two colorway options while hitting the town. One side has a smooth two-tone look, while the other is a solid color with quilting like a puffer jacket. It packs into its own chest pocket, so it’s easy to fit in your travel backpack and comfortable enough for all-day wear.

You won’t sacrifice convenience for portability, either, since it includes zippered hand-warmer pockets, two-way patch pockets, hand pockets, and a zippered pocket on the chest for small accessories. Plus, the hem, hood, and cuffs have elastic binding to keep out the whistling wind.

So there you have it, 12 travel jackets for nearly any trip. Whether you’re heading to Scandinavia, aren’t sure the weather will cooperate with your trip, or just want to stay warm—these travel jackets will ensure you are comfortable no matter where the journey takes you.

If you need more travel jacket ideas, go check out this video!

August 24, 2022

Author: Eric Hergenreder

Eric has been across the globe, but his favorite place to explore is his home state of Michigan. His love for photography has taken him all around the Great Lake State, often writing about his travels so that others can enjoy them, too. Eric loves messing around with analog photography, watching soccer, and searching for the world’s best burger in his spare time.

The Last-Minute Item I Buy Before Every Trip

When I'm preparing for a trip, this is how it usually goes: I start shopping for a few pieces to bring a few weeks in advance, I start working on my packing list (it's a process) a few days in advance, and then the weather forecast inevitably changes, and I basically have to re-plan all of my outfits. That's when it always becomes clear to me that there's one thing, in particular, that I'm lacking: an appropriate jacket for my travels. Without a doubt, outerwear is the biggest challenge I have when it comes to packing. 

I've yet to put my finger on exactly what the problem is, but even though my closet is filled with outerwear options, including denim, leather, utility, wool, and faux-fur jackets, I always feel as though my destination and the outfits I've chosen for it require a very specific type of jacket, and one is hardly ever enough. Sure, I'll throw in a denim or leather jacket for a few occasions, but what if I'm going to a wedding, or a fancy dinner, or even a Spin class? Then what? That's usually when I get out my laptop and frantically search the internet for something that isn't too bulky and won't wrinkle easily (I personally hate wearing my jacket in dirty airplanes, even though that's what you're supposed to do).

My frantic last-minute search usually leads me to order a jacket that I otherwise probably wouldn't have chosen, and usually with an added price of $25 overnight shipping. So here's my best advice: If you, too, experience this packing challenge, do yourself a favor and diversity the outerwear options in your closet in advance . It will save your time, money, and sanity. 

Below, shop 17 stylish jackets with travel potential for this time of year and beyond.

This denim coat is polished enough for an evening out or a work function on a business trip. Available in sizes XXS to XL.

Good luck finding an anorak that's chicer than this. Available in sizes XS to L.

Was there ever a more perfect travel jacket than a trench? I think not. Available in sizes XXS to L.

A lightweight puffer-style jacket is perfect for transitional weather. Available in sizes XS to XL.

This color this time of year is a win. Available in sizes XS to L.

This is more versatile than you think—trust.Available in sizes 34 to 42.

Early reviews are saying that this new arrival is very flattering.  Available in sizes XXS to XXL.

This lightweight leather jacket is my favorite one to travel with. Available in sizes 34 to 44.

I would literally plan outfits around this jacket. Available in sizes 2 to 8.

Contrasting stitching is a subtle trend I'm loving.  Available in sizes 2 to 14.

This will take up minimal room in your suitcase. Available in sizes XS to L.

Denim jackets are a travel must-have. Available in sizes S  to 4X .

I purchased this one for a recent late-winter trip and wore it every day. Available in size S/M.

Let this rekindle your love for the bomber jacket. Available in sizes 36 to 44.

Take my advice and invest in a versatile non-bulky wool coat. Available in sizes 12 to 28.

This will easily elevate anything it's paired with. Available in sizes 0 to 10.

I would like to go to London and wear this coat. Available in sizes UK 6 to 16.

And now, here's the only packing checklist you'll ever need .

Allyson is a senior editor for Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant and over the years has written hundreds of stories for Who What Wear. Prior to her career in fashion, Allyson worked in the entertainment industry at companies such as Sony Pictures Television. Allyson is now based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She holds a BFA in theater. Her path to fashion may not have been linear, but based on the number of fashion magazines she collected as a child and young adult, it was meant to be.

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15+ Best Jackets for Travel for Any Weather 2024

• Travel Gear

Looking for the best jackets for travel? Here are our favorites!

We love our versatile clothes. Not only does it help us pack light, but since we like a mix of urban and outdoor adventures, it prepares us for any activity. Since we’ve lived in all types of climates over the years, we’ve had the chance to test out different jackets, and here are our favorites.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: August 18, 2024

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• The Best Travel Jackets for Men and Women

Previously on the List

More highly rated travel jackets, things to look for in travel jackets, planning checklist, the best travel jackets for women and men 2024.

In this post, we check out highly rated and recommended travel jackets and include our favorites.

1. Patagonia 3-in-1 Parka – Best for Cold Weather Destinations ($699) →

Fabric:  100% Recycled Polyester, 100% Recycled Down For:  Winter activities, Urban exploration, Outdoors Wearing:  XS in Black

We wouldn’t have survived winter in NYC without these jackets. We’ve had them for six years and wear them when traveling to cold destinations (I was hot wearing this parka in Antarctica ). It’s a 3-in-1, and you can wear it five different ways since you can detach the hood and the insulated layer from the shell layer. Plus, they have a clean design. Even though we’re not in NYC anymore, we often use it as separate layers.

You can get the  Vosque (synthetic)  or  Tres 3-in-1 parka  (100% recycled down) . They’re both comparable in function. We have the Tres, which is slightly warmer and bulkier.

• Five ways to wear the jacket
• 100% recycled materials
• Water-proof shell
• Removable hood to look dressier.
• Handwarmer pockets
• Longer jacket to keep more of you warm
• Can be dressed up but also handle outdoor adventures
• 1% for the Planet
• Pricey, but you’re getting 3-in-1.
• Bulky to pack.
• Limited color options
• The men’s version is not as long.

See More: How to Survive Winter in New York + How to Dress for a New York Winter

2. Duer Jackets – Best Versatile Day-to-Day ($139-149) →

Fabric:  98% Cotton, 2% Elastane for LuxTwill | 70% Cotton, 28% Polyester, 2% Lycra For:  Urban exploration, Outdoors Wearing:  XS

We love our Duer Performance Jeans and have a few pairs each. Naturally, they take their tech and make jackets, too. Their collection changes each season, but we currently wear the Stay Dry Denim (men’s) and LuxTwill Trucker Jacket (women’s) with matching pants .

• Performance denim
• Can be dressed up or down
• Comfortable, stretchy fabric
• Antimicrobial treatment for extended wears between washes (LuxTwill)
• DWR water-repellent finish (Stay Dry)
• Reflective detailing for increased visibility (Stay Dry)
• I don’t love having buttons (vs. a zipper), but I’ll mostly wear it open.

3. Nomatic Outset Jacket ($199.99) – Best Packable Jacket →

Fabric:  100% Polyester For:  Urban Exploration & Outdoors Wearing:  S in Black

We have a few different Nomatic backpacks and suitcases , so we were excited to hear that they have ventured into apparel. Their outset jacket packs into itself so you can use it as a travel pillow too. Plus it’s one of the softest performance jackets I have. I love all the little details and organization it has without being bulky.

They don’t have a women’s version yet, but it can be worn by either. Jacob wears a small, so hopefully they release a XS so I can get one too!

• Insulated but breathable
• Coating to repel water and prevent stains
• 4-way stretch
• Wrinkle resistant
• Insulated mid layer
• Still looks more outdoorsy
• Only two colors right now

See More: 25 Best Travel Backpacks You Need To Check Out

4. Ministry of Supply Kinetic Blazer ($295) – Best Work Travel Jacket →

Fabric:  100% Japanese Primeflex Polyester For:  Urban exploration, work travel Wearing:  XXS in Black (true to size)

We love Ministry of Supply, especially since one of the co-founders is a Georgia Tech alum. Their tagline is “scientifically better,” and their goal is for their pieces to perform better than all your other clothes. I wear the Kinetic Blazer for conferences and anytime I need more business attire but don’t want to sacrifice comfort. I can even throw it over jeans and a tee to dress up a casual look. Jacob has the Velocity Blazer (photos coming soon!).

• Moisture wicking
• Lots of pockets.
• Machine washable
• So far none but will update you if I have any complaints after more use.

5. Anatomie Kenya Safari Jacket – Best Style ($398) →

Fabric:  55% Cotton, 37% Polyamide, 4% Elastane For: Urban exploration Wearing:  XS in White

This is one of the best jackets for travel if you’re looking for a mid-weight jacket. It works well dressed up or down while keeping me warm.

Both Kim (our million-mile writer) and I have this jacket and love it for all our trips that aren’t focused on hiking or climbing.

• Flattering fit around the waist.
• Lightweight (except white is heavier and thicker to avoid transparency)
• 50+ UPF protection
• Moisture-wicking/quick-drying
• Plenty of pockets (top slash pockets and bottom zip pockets)
• Offered in four neutral colors
• Durable with a lifetime guarantee.
• Not waterproof
• It’s not as stretchy as other jackets on this list, but it does have a slight stretch.
• No hood, for when it rains, but hoods also tend to negate a sleeker look.
• Priciest mid-weight jacket on this list

6. Protected SPECIES Waterproof Jacket – Best Raincoat ($332) →

Fabric:  100% Polyester For:  Urban exploration, Outdoors Wearing:  Size 1 in Blue Mist

I love that my Waterproof Mac performs like my other outdoorsy shells without looking outdoorsy. It doesn’t have the plasticky feel of typical rain gear. I also get compliments about it all the time!

• Flattering fit.
• Luxuriously soft
• Four-way stretch
• Fully waterproof with each seam sealed
• Lightweight
• Wind resistant
• Durable with a 2-year guarantee on waterproof performance (as long as care instructions are followed)
• Made from recycled yarns
• Pricier than many other jackets on this list

7. Graphene x REVERSIBLE Hoodie – Best Reversible Jacket ($249) →

Fabric:  100% Graphene-integrated polyester (warm side), Middle membrane: TPU membrane (middle), 88% nylon and 12% spandex (cold side) For:  Urban exploration Wearing:  XS in Black

This Reversible Hoodie is made for cold and warm weather. One side is a soft graphene-integrated fleece that keeps you warm, while the other side cools you. The membrane also keeps wind and rain out.

Graphene X Coupon Code: Use coupon code LOCALADVENTURER for 10% off.

• Fully reversible
• Functions in hot and cold
• Graphene-integrated fleece
• Durable and abrasion-resistant
• Highly water-resistant
• Breathable and windproof
• Antibacterial and anti-UV
• Bulky to pack
• Hard to dress up

8. Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece Jacket – Best Fleece (On sale $110) →

Fabric:  100% recycled polyester fleece For:  Outdoors, Urban exploration Wearing:  XS in Birch White

This is our go-to mild-weather travel jacket. It’s warm enough for cool evenings and small enough to pack away in a backpack when we don’t need it. We’ve also worn it as a mid-layer on outdoor adventures.

• Wind-resistant and fleece-lined
• Stretchy but slim fit
• The collar can be zipped all the way up for extra warmth.
• Lightweight and packable
• Wrinkle-resistant
• 100% recycled
• Fairtrade certified, Bluesign approved.
• Can’t be dressed up

9. Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoodie – Best Puffy (On sale $281) →

Fabric:  80% Recycled Polyester, Recycled Nylon, RDS-certified European Goose Down For:  Outdoors Wearing:  XS in Cardinal

This jacket has a hoodie and non-hoodie version and is the warmest jacket I own (besides the 3-in-1 above, but I think of that as two jackets). Since I always run colder than Jacob, I decided to get one, and it’s extremely warm. I’ve had this jacket for over six years and continue to wear it often. It also packs down small, although not as small as the Patagonia Nano Puff.

• 850-fill-power down – certified Responsible Down Standard
• The warmest single-layer jacket we own
• Breathable and wind-resistant
• Water repellent fabric
• Bluesign approved, responsible down standard.
• Can’t be dressed up

10. Gamma Graphene Jacket – Best Rechargeable Heated Jacket (on sale $299) →

Graphene is the most formidable and lightest material on earth. Infusing this material into a jacket and adding many features helps the Gamma Jacket earn a spot on the list. The best feature is the built-in heating option. All you have to do is plug in a power bank, and the jacket is heated!

We just picked up their  Heta Hand Warming Power Bank , too! It’s the perfect companion that will support maximum heat output from the jacket, but it also can be used separately as a hand warmer and power bank.

Wear Graphene Coupon Code: Use code  LOCALADVENTURER10  for 10% off sitewide.

• Made with tough and light material
• It is a heated jacket
• 10-pocket system for organization
• Antimicrobial and anti-order material
• Breathable and moisture-wicking
• Zippers are water-resistant
• Need to carry a power bank around to use the heat feature
• For extreme weather, you still need a separate insulation layer.
• Has the plasticky feel of most waterproof shells.

11. Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoodie ($240) →

This jacket has a hoodie and non-hoodie version and is one we prefer since it has a cleaner look than the waffle knit design. We have the hoodie version but might pick up a non-hoodie version, too, since we wear them all the time, especially when we’re out climbing. We wear it in mild conditions and have used it as a mid-layer for colder conditions.

• Warm and lightweight
• Side panels help with stretch, performance, and breathability
• Low profile hood for wind and light rain
• Works on its own or for layering
• Made to last. We’ve worn these for several years.
• Has an outdoorsy look – although less so if you get one without a hood and in a neutral color

12. 66ºNorth OK – Best for Hikers ($395) →

This is Jacob’s favorite right now for cold weather. It combines warm down with Polartec stretch panels, giving you the insulation you need without sacrificing movement. He pairs it with his  Snaefell from 66ºNorth  when it rains.

• Responsible Down Standard (90% Duck Down, 10 % Feather)
• Polartec Powerstreatch Panels
• Breathable stretch panels
• It can be used as mid-layer or outer layer
• Limited Colors

13. Graphene X Nomade Jacket – Best Packable Rain Jacket (On Sale for $249) →

This ultralight waterproof jacket packs really small into itself and even has a carrying strap. I love that the hood also tucks into the collar, so you can leave it in there if you don’t need it. The graphene-printed membrane makes it durable and breathable.

• Graphene-printed membrane
• Extremely lightweight
• Self-packable
• Reflective pattern
• Packable hood
• If it’s really cold, you’ll need an additional layer

14. Nike Dri-FIT Bliss Bomber Jacket – Best Lightweight for Women ($105) →

Fabric:  81% Nylon, 19% Spandex For:  Urban exploration Wearing:  XS in Night Maroon/Deep Jungle

I have a lot of jackets, but they’re all made for warm weather. I’ve been borrowing Jacob’s jackets until I recently found this Nike Bomber Jacket , a great casual lightweight jacket. I loved it so much that I got it in two colors.

• Ultrasoft and stretchy
• Sweat-wicking
• Good for layering
• Looks dressier than other athletic jackets
• Only for mild weather

15. Patagonia Nano Puff or Nanostorm – Best Overall (On Sale $119) →

This is one of the best overall jackets for both warmth and packability. It’s extremely light and comes in many different colors. The jacket also doubled as a pillow on the plane for me since you can stuff it into the pocket.

We don’t wear the Nano Puff as often anymore, but it has served us well over the years. Now, we either wear the interior of the 3-in-1 Parka or our  Nano Storm  is our go-to since that one is waterproof without feeling like a raincoat.

• Packs into its own pocket
• Bluesign approved fabric
• Extremely light
• Comes in a bunch of colors
• Water-repellent design and windproof
• Uses the most thermally efficient synthetic insulation
• Very outdoorsy look
• Doesn’t have a hood

• Baubax Travel Bomber Jacket (On Sale $179) – This Bomber jacket was built for traveling with every feature imaginable, but they have been sold out for the longest time. I’ve checked their site every month over the past five years, and they are never in stock.
• Duer Performance (Best Reversible Jacket) – Discontinued
• Nike Windrunner – Best Packable Lightweight Jacket for Men – Discontinued
• Prana Bomber Jacket – Discontinued
• Nike Sportswear Tech Pack Reversible Jacket – Discontinued

• Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket  – Best for Rain
• Columbia Watertight II Jacket
• North Face Thermoball 
• SCOTTeVEST – We ordered the original ScotteVest because we heard such great things about it but returned them because they didn’t fit our body types. We will check out some of their other styles in the future.
• Uniqlo Ultra Light Down – Best Budget
• Versatility  – Most of our trips will take us from outdoor activities during the day to fine dining in the evening. Ideally, our jackets can transition between outdoor and urban environments.
• Water-resistant is good if you are getting wet, but not for an extended period of time.
• Waterproofing is necessary if you’ll be outside in the rain a lot. It costs more and is generally less breathable.
• Down Material  – Most jackets will use synthetic or goose down. Generally, goose is warmer and more compressible but less breathable and less water-resistant.
• Packable  – We’re always looking for light and easy-to-pack jackets, although, that isn’t always possible with larger winter coats, so prioritize what you need for each trip.
• Comfort  – Since we’ll be wearing it a lot, we want jackets that are comfy.
• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .

Are there any others we should check out that belong on our list of best jackets for travel? What’s your go-to travel jacket?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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• Travel Products

The Best Women’s Travel Clothing, Tested and Reviewed

From comfortable pants to packable jackets, here is the best travel clothing tested by T+L editors.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

While your packing list for every trip will differ depending on your destination and planned activities, there are a few characteristics that all the best travel clothes have in common. Whether you’re shopping for cozy fleece jackets or comfortable pants you can fly in, look for materials that offer just the right blend of lightweight packability and durable quality. Wrinkle-resistant, easy-to-maintain synthetics, such as nylon or polyester, are ideal for travel, while versatile styles that you can dress up or down to suit different occasions will help to save space in your suitcase . 

Our Travel + Leisure editors test different products year-round to help you find the best travel clothing. Some products, like rain jackets, are tested in our custom-built laboratory, while others are tested on our travels across the world. All are reviewed based on different attributes including fit, comfort, design, performance, quality, and value. In this article, we round up the winners of some of our favorite women’s clothing tests. 

Best Travel Pants

Spanx the perfect pant, slim straight.

These pants combine all the comfort and stretch of leggings with the put-together look of slacks.

Sizing can be tricky for women with a curvier shape.

When we tested 49 pairs of women’s travel pants , The Perfect Pant from Spanx lived up to its name to become our overall winner. The pants are designed to fit closely through the hip and thigh, with a straight leg and hidden core-shaping technology. Although our hourglass-shaped team member did have some issues with fit (she sized up to accommodate her hips, which left some gaping at the waist), she loved that the pants come in three inseam lengths. We also like the high-quality fabric — a rayon, nylon, and elastane blend that smooths any imperfections and offers just the right weight for all but the hottest weather.

Four-way stretch affords complete freedom of movement, which meant we were able to perform full squats and kicks with ease. In fact, the pants are so comfortable that even after wearing them all day we wanted to stay in them once we got home. They’re ideal for long-haul flights , and for any travel scenario in which you want the comfort of leggings but the more formal, put-together look of pants. A lack of pockets could be a drawback for some; however, we feel that adding them would detract from the pants’ streamlined shape. The pants are machine washable and come in versatile colors, ranging from classic navy to charcoal heather. 

The Details: XS-3X (regular, petite, and tall) | 68 percent rayon, 28 percent nylon, 4 percent elastane (body); 80 percent polyester, 20 percent elastane (lining)

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Best Joggers

Everlane jogger.

We can’t get enough of the joggers’ luxuriously soft interior and generous length.

These may not be the best choice for sweat-inducing activities and vigorous exercise.

Designed for everyday comfort, The ReTrack Jogger from Everlane was our favorite of 37 pairs tested in our quest to find the best women’s joggers . They feature a classic silhouette and are made from sustainable, partially recycled cotton and polyester. We are obsessed with these and think they’re the most comfortable joggers we’ve ever tried. We love the roomy, relaxed fit, the drop-in pockets, the dreamily soft exterior, and the fleecy interior. Plus, the joggers’ length works particularly well for taller ladies. 

Shorter women need not worry, though: ribbed cuffs make these joggers suitable for a wide range of body types. We love the adjustable, elastic waistband, which fits loosely enough to make the pants comfortable for long-haul flights and lazy days spent lounging at the hotel. We wouldn’t recommend them for high-impact workouts, though, since the fleecy material is unlikely to wick moisture well and may cause overheating. After repeated washing (and not always on the recommended setting), the joggers haven’t shrunk, pilled, or changed appearance in any way.

The Details: XXS-XL | 70 percent cotton (26 percent recycled), 30 percent recycled polyester

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Dera Burreson
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best Hiking Pants

Patagonia women's chambeau rock pants.

These pants are made from a sustainable polyester and spandex blend for silky lightness and unparalleled mobility.

Compared to some other hiking pants, they’re not particularly budget-friendly.

The Chambeau Rock Pants took first place in our test of 24 different hiking pants . Developed by renowned outdoor brand Patagonia for “long mountain ridge traverses, multipitch rock climbs, or summer cragging,” these pants impressed us with their all-day comfort and technical performance. Finding the right fit was easy thanks to the brand’s helpful size guide. The pants offer a precise, slim fit and tapered lower legs — great for getting a clear view of your foot placement on rocky routes. We particularly like the soft, elastic waistband (designed to fit comfortably under a climbing harness) and the freedom of movement provided by the articulated pattern and four-way stretch. 

The material blends recycled polyester and spandex for silky breathability. We loved that we were able to maintain an ideal temperature — whether actively hiking or stopping to admire the view — and that lake and rainwater beaded right off the durable water-repellent coating. The pants dry quickly, resist abrasions well, and feature harness-compatible front and back pockets. A zippered pocket on the right thigh provides a secure place for your phone. While these are a bit pricier than some of the other hiking pants we’ve tried, we think these are the most versatile, and, despite the pants’ hiking-specific features, would happily wear them for the rest of the day, too.

The Details: Sizes 00-22 | 86 percent recycled polyester, 14 percent spandex

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto

Best Hiking Leggings

Kari traa ane hiking tights.

These leggings offer not one but two fully secure, zippered pockets to keep your valuables safe on the trail.

Sizing is limited, running from an XS to an XL only.

Kari Traa’s Ane Hiking Tights were the best hiking leggings to emerge from our 84-pairs-strong testing pool. After wearing them for two years, T+L associate editor Anna Popp confirms that they still look and feel brand new and are her go-to adventure pants. The polyamide and elastane blend is lightweight, breathable, and surprisingly soft for a pair of purpose-built performance leggings. Popp loves the enhanced freedom of movement offered by a gusseted crotch and four-way stretch, while the adjustable drawstring waistband offers just the right amount of compression.

The fabric is quick to dry (great if you get caught out in inclement weather) and UPF 40+ rated for sun protection on hot days. The hems feature a silicone grip to stop the leggings riding up and zippered openings for ventilation. The ability to widen the otherwise fitted hem also makes it possible to pull the pants on or off over your hiking boots when you want to swap layers midhike. The leggings’ zippered thigh pockets are another highlight. This way, you can rest easy knowing your valuables are secure no matter how much you stretch or scramble. Machine wash and line dry yours for maximum longevity. 

The Details: XS-XL | 71 percent polyamide, 29 percent elastane (main); 95 percent polyamide, 5 percent elastane (contrast panels)

Best Fleece-lined Leggings

Eddie bauer crossover winter trail adventure high-rise leggings.

These leggings feature a cozy brushed-fleece interior and are beautifully made from high-quality materials.

They’re machine washable and dryer safe, but only on cold and low settings, respectively.

We performed real-world tests on 20 pairs of fleece-lined leggings to find our favorite: the Crossover Winter Trail Adventure leggings from Eddie Bauer. They’re made from a quality blend of polyester and spandex that we expect to last for years and have no signs of wear and tear post-testing. From the outside, they look like regular high-end leggings. They’re smooth, soft, and thick enough not to worry about snagging or opacity issues. On the inside, a thin layer of cozy brushed fleece kept us surprisingly warm, even in 45-degree weather. 

They’re perfect for cold-weather wear, either on their own or as a layer under ski pants . And if the temperature rises or you end up being a little more active than expected, moisture-wicking and odor-control capabilities prevent you from feeling uncomfortable. Finally, we love how well these leggings fit. The high-rise power mesh waistband features a drawcord adjustment to stop it from slipping down, while the gusseted crotch ensures mobility. Available in versatile colors ranging from black to dark berry, the leggings include three pockets, one of which is zippered. 

The Details: XS-XXL (regular), M-XXL (tall), 2X-3X (plus) | 88 percent polyester, 12 percent spandex

Best One-piece Swimsuit

Andie the amalfi.

An impressive choice of fabrics, colors, sizes, and cuts means there’s a version of this suit for all body types and tastes.

It’s a bit expensive compared to some other one-pieces and considering its standard design.

Out of the 18 one-piece swimsuits we tested, The Amalfi from Andie took our top spot. That’s partly because of its universal appeal with options to suit a wide range of preferences. Choose a classic or long torso fit, then decide whether you want medium, full, or cheeky rear coverage. There are three fabrics to choose from (we tested the ribbed version, but there are smooth and novelty knits as well) and several gorgeous colors ranging from cherry red to navy to white. Whatever iteration you go for, expect impressive comfort both in and out of the water. 

We also found that the lightly compressive fabric offered a sense of support. Whether we were swimming laps or riding slides at the water park, everything stayed reliably in place, and we had full freedom of movement. The fabric looks good, too — helping to smooth and streamline in all the right places — while the deep scoop neck and spaghetti straps add a touch of style to an otherwise practical aesthetic. Finally, we liked that the suit can be customized using the adjustable straps and removable bra cups, and that it dries quickly for same-day packing. The price point is a bit higher than other one-pieces we’ve tested, but we still think it’s worth it to have such a flattering swimsuit in our arsenal.

The Details: XS-3XL | 82 percent nylon, 18 percent spandex (flat); 90 percent nylon, 10 percent spandex (ribbed)

Travel + Leisure / Frances Crouter

Best Bikini

Adore me bobbie lined swimsuit.

The top of this two-piece is fitted by bra size for superior support and comfort.

There are just two colors to choose from.

We tested no fewer than 44 bikinis and of them all, the Adore Me Bobbie Lined Swimsuit was our favorite. In fact, it’s one of the most comfortable two-pieces we’ve ever worn. Available in blue or black, the set includes an underwired halter-neck bra with a flattering, contoured demi cup and ruched detailing. We loved the top’s unique look, the bra cup sizing, and the adjustable straps that tie securely to offer just the right level of chest support. The fit also remained consistent when the bikini got wet. 

The top pairs with your choice of bikini or high-waisted bottoms. We chose the high-waisted bottoms and loved that they offered well-tailored coverage without being frumpy or adding too much bulk in the water. Both pieces are made from a blend of recycled nylon and spandex with a polyester lining that felt both soft and reassuringly secure. At no point did we worry about see-through fabric or ties coming undone — we loved that we were able to swim properly without risk of exposure. Perhaps best of all, this bikini is amazingly affordable and the perfect suit to pack for your next beach vacation .  

The Details: A-DDD (cup size), 30-38 (band size), XS-XL (bottoms) | 80 percent recycled nylon, 20 percent spandex (body); polyester (lining)

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Best Bodysuit

Skims square neck bodysuit.

The bodysuit’s stretchy, supportive fabric feels amazing and cinches at the waist for a flattering, streamlined look.

The button closures may be uncomfortable for some.

The Skims Fits Everybody Square Neck Bodysuit is our winning pick for those in search of the perfect travel base layer. It’s crafted from the brand’s signature Fits Everybody fabric for exceptional stretch, support, and breathability. We were impressed with the high-quality feel despite the fact that the material is relatively thin. During testing, we thought the fabric was insanely comfortable and loved how it cinched at the waist for a gorgeous, sculpted effect. Despite not having adjustable straps, the suit fit perfectly.

The high-cut leg openings and thong back make the bodysuit invisible when worn under tight-fitting pants and skirts. If you’re headed somewhere warm you can confidently wear it without an extra shirt layer, too, thanks to the stylish, modern vibes created by the square neckline and low scoop back. Choose classic shades ranging from sand to bronze to cocoa to blend with your skin tone, or opt for brighter limited-edition shades if you want a pop of color. The button closures were met with mixed feelings; however, the bodysuit successfully retained its shape even after multiple washes.

The Details: XXS-4X | 76 percent polyamide, 24 percent elastane

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Lauren Pardee

Best Rain Jacket

Outdoor research aspire super stretch jacket.

This is a highly technical jacket that provides full waterproofing, ample breathability, and stylish good looks.

Although definitely worth it, it is a significant investment.

We tested 23 women’s rain jackets and named the Aspire Super Stretch Jacket from Outdoor Research as our overall winner. Made from highly technical Gore-tex Paclite with seam-taped construction and a front storm flap, it offers complete protection from the wind and rain. During testing, we wore the jacket under a portable shower and sprayed the exterior with watering cans, and the water beads remained unchanged as they hit the fabric, rolling off without any absorption. One shake was all that was needed to dry the jacket. The jacket also features four-way stretch panels to eliminate the restriction associated with other raincoats. 

An investment piece in any wardrobe, this waterproof rain jacket is worth it. From the moment we put it on we could feel that it was light and breathable enough for any athletic use — an impression we put to the test when we wore it to perform a series of jumping jacks. TorsoFlo vents (two-way zips running from pit to hem on both sides) are a particular highlight. Other features include an adjustable wire-brimmed hood, an elastic drawcord hem, and zippered hand and chest pockets with an integrated key clip. Finally, the jacket’s lightness makes it ideal for packing, although you’ll need to size up to fit layers underneath if you need warmth.

The Details: XS-XXL | Gore-tex with Paclite Titanium Technology (shell); recycled polyester (lining); 37 percent nylon, 44 percent polyester, 19 percent elastane (stretch panels)

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Packable Jacket

Columbia switchback iii jacket.

With its slim fit, stowaway hood, and wide range of colors, this is a versatile jacket that looks good in between showers, too.

If you want to wear layers underneath or guarantee full freedom of movement, consider sizing up.

The Columbia Women’s Switchback III was our favorite packable jacket of the 19 we tested. We love the lightness of its nylon shell and the fact that it packs away into its own pocket for easy portability. It’s the ideal choice for keeping in a purse or backpack pocket, just in case. We noticed that it can get a little wrinkled after being compressed for a while, but the wrinkles seem to naturally release with wear. Bear in mind that the jacket is water resistant rather than fully waterproof — it’s meant for sprinkles, not heavy rain storms. 

Despite its lightness, the high-quality material feels durable. We found the fit slimmer than expected, which we liked from a style perspective although it did make the jacket a little tight in the back during more energetic movements. This would be easily remedied by sizing up. The jacket also features zippered pockets, adjustable cuffs and hems, and a hood that you can stow away for a more neutral, versatile look when it’s not raining. Colors range from standard neutrals (black, stone green) to more unique hues (fuschia, turquoise).

The Details: XS-XXL (standard), 1X to 3X (plus) | Nylon (shell); polyester (lining)

Best Fleece Jacket

Patagonia women's lightweight fleece pullover.

This fleece combines flawless functionality with a modern, attractive aesthetic that makes it ideal for daily winter wear. 

It lacks side pockets, which may be a dealbreaker for some.

Of the 30 fleece jackets we tested , the Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T Fleece Pullover took first place. Made in a Fair Trade Certified factory from recycled polyester fleece, it scores high on the sustainability scale. Its regular hip-length fit and classic pullover style is made for everyday comfort (although we recommend sizing up if you want space for layers underneath). The double-sided fleece wicks moisture, dries quickly, and features an anti-pill finish. We loved that it feels supercozy, even on bare arms, with no irritation of any kind. 

We also really liked the spandex trim on the cuffs and hem, which feels soft against the skin and effectively seals out cold air — so much so that we were actually a little too warm when testing this fleece in 50-degree weather. It’s definitely a winter wardrobe staple and a stylish option to bring with you to chillier destinations. Other features include a four-snap front placket for ventilation and easy on and off; and a snap-closure chest pocket for your essentials. For those who love side pockets, you are out of luck with this option, though that makes it more streamlined for layering. The jacket showed zero signs of wear and tear postwashing.

The Details: XXS-XXL | Recycled polyester (body); recycled nylon with a DWR finish (placket and pocket)

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Kaylene Konigsmark

Best Peacoat

L.l.bean classic lambswool peacoat.

This is a premium quality peacoat that’s built to last in a classic style.

If you’re between sizes, size down for a more tailored look.

We put 17 peacoats to the test and settled on the L.L.Bean Women’s Classic Lambswool Peacoat as our overall favorite. From the luxurious packaging to the wonderfully soft, premium Italian lambswool construction, the quality of this coat is exceptional. It offers a timeless look that will stay in style for years to come. In particular, we love the anchor-emblazoned buttons and the gorgeous color choices ranging from camel to rusty hickory heather. Single-needle topstitching and roomy welt pockets complete the naval effect. 

We tested the coat in unseasonably warm weather and found that it offered sufficient breathability for comfort in 65 degrees. And yet, Thinsulate insulation suggests it will cope well with much colder weather, too, making it the ideal choice for shoulder season travels in temperate climates. The relaxed, below-the-hip fit also leaves plenty of space underneath for layers. We found it a little boxy but feel this could have been remedied by opting for a smaller size — something to bear in mind if you prefer a more tailored look. 

The Details: Sizes 4-20 (regular and petite), 1X-3X (plus) | Lambswool, Thinsulate, polyester

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Hannah Agran

Best Down Jacket

Lolë emeline down jacket.

This jacket offers a flattering cut that goes with most outfits and is so lightweight it’s easy to forget you’re wearing it. 

Sizing comes up large, so be sure to size down if you prefer a snug fit.

The Lolë Emeline Down Jacket was our favorite ladies’ pick out of 25 down jackets we tested. Although the jacket we tried was a little big, we love the flattering cut with its ruched panel at the back for figure-hugging slimness and the hi-low hem for extra rear coverage. It goes well with just about anything and comes in a rainbow of colors to suit all tastes, whether you prefer practical black or an eye-catching shade such as rhubarb, fig, or beryl blue. The fact that you can remove the hood adds to the jacket’s travel-ready versatility. 

During testing, we found the cloud-like jacket was so light and unrestrictive, we often forgot we had it on. Despite this unexpected (and ultrapackable) lightness, the responsibly sourced down interior provides warmth in temperatures ranging from 32 to 14 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, the nylon shell is treated with a water-repellent coating for protection against wind and light rain. There’s space underneath for extra layers, too, and a choice of four interior and exterior pockets in which to store your things.  

The Details: XXS-XXL | 100 percent nylon (shell and lining), 70 percent duck down, 30 percent feathers (insulation)

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Kat Zhang

Best Puffer Jacket

Alo yoga aspen love puffer jacket.

It’s quite possibly the softest and most flattering short puffer ever.

The sporty aesthetic created by webbing details on the sleeve and back may not be to everybody’s taste.

We tested 26 women’s puffer jackets and ranked the Alo Aspen Love Puffer Jacket as our overall winner. Practicalities first: the high-tech, ripstop shell is treated with a water-repellent coating while the down-alternative fill kept us warm in near-freezing temperatures. The hip-length fit is deliberately oversized — leaving plenty of space underneath for layering with a long-sleeve shirt and sweater — with elastic cuffs and hems to help lock in body heat. A breathable, lightweight build and unrestricted mobility ensure all-day comfort. 

We also love the jacket’s on-trend look. Initially, we worried the puffer would be bulky, but the fit is very flattering. Webbing details on the sleeve and back add an element of athletic-chic, while the cinched hem makes for a slightly cropped effect, despite the regular length. Best of all, the hood is removable making this a versatile addition to your packing list. Plus, we’re pleased to report the jacket is still as soft and voluminous after testing as it was on the day we unpackaged it. 

The Details: XS-L | Ripstop fabric (shell), down-alternative fill (insulation)

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Danielle St. Pierre

Each of the products included in this article was subjected to a set of special tests. Some of these were carried out by our team of travel experts in our dedicated testing laboratory, while others were conducted out in the real world. Tests ranged from wearing raincoats in the shower to simulate rainfall to laying swimsuits out in the sun and timing how long it took them to dry. We tested rain jacket mobility by performing jumping jacks; legging opacity by squatting in front of the mirror; and bikini coverage by sitting, walking, and swimming. 

During testing, our team members took notes on attributes ranging from comfort, fit, design, and performance to quality and value. We combed through testing insights to choose our category winners and rounded them up in this article. Testing is ongoing for six months to test long-term durability, so look for updates to this article with results for these and other clothing items.

Tips for Buying Travel Clothing

Make sure it’s packable and not bulky.

Packability is key when choosing travel clothing, especially if you’re traveling by plane and have to adhere to strict luggage restrictions. Look for lightweight materials that roll or fold compactly while still providing the durability and performance you need. For example, a high-quality jacket should keep you warm without being particularly thick or heavy, and it would be even better for travel if you can compress it down into a much smaller carry pouch or even its own pocket. There are exceptions to this rule for winter travel, of course, such as a heavy-duty peacoat — but these are usually outerwear items that you can exclude from your packing by wearing them on the plane. 

Look for wrinkle-free fabrics

The absolute last thing you want to be doing on vacation is tracking down an iron and then wasting precious pool or sightseeing time using it to get creases out of your clothes. You can avoid this by intentionally choosing a travel wardrobe made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics that will emerge from your suitcase looking as fresh as they did when you packed them. Some of the best wrinkle-free fabrics include wool, polyester, nylon, spandex, denim, and modal; while fabrics to avoid, if you’re prioritizing easy maintenance, include linen and 100 percent cotton. Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can also help to significantly reduce wrinkles. 

Check your measurements for accurate sizing

Choosing the right size can be tricky when shopping online. Some items are labeled according to dress size while others use designations like XS or XL. And just because you’re a medium in one brand’s clothing doesn’t mean you’re the same size in another. Sizing can differ significantly across brands , which is why it’s always best to consult the size guide and choose a size according to your actual measurements. Reading user reviews will also give you an idea of whether the item runs true to size — sometimes you’ll need to size up or down to get a more relaxed or tailored fit, depending on your preference. Finally, check the return policy in case the fit isn’t what you expected.

Frequently Asked Questions

While there are different optimum packing techniques for different clothing types, styles, and fabrics, one of the best ways to pack your clothes to prevent wrinkles and save space is to roll them. To do this, lay the item flat and fold it strategically until it resembles a long rectangle. For jackets, for example, you would fold each side vertically towards the middle and then fold the sleeves and hood backwards to lie on top. When you have a neat rectangle, you can roll the item tightly into a compact cylinder. Then, place the rolled clothing directly into your suitcase or use packing cubes for further organization. Another option is to use compression cubes , which eliminate air and flatten bulky fabrics to save extra space.

Although most hotels offer a laundry service and many vacation rentals come with their own washing and drying facilities, you may not have the time (or inclination) to make sure all of your clothes are clean before packing to go home. If you have dirty or damp clothes, keep them separate from the rest of your packing to avoid contaminating fresh items. Some checked suitcases make this easy with an integrated laundry compartment or divider section — the best ones have a water- and odor-resistant lining. If yours lacks this feature, consider investing in a water-resistant packing cube or a travel laundry bag , or, in a pinch, seal your clothes into a large Ziploc or plastic shopping bag.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel gear and clothing for 10 years. After visiting more than 50 countries — often with just a backpack — she’s become a master at choosing durable, well-made clothes that keep her packing list to a minimum by offering maximum versatility. Products listed in this article were chosen according to the results of many different tests carried out by T+L’s team of travel experts.

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Best Lightweight Jackets for Travel (For Men and Women)

As world travelers, aside from our technology, there’s probably nothing we value more than our travel jackets. Jackets? Really?!

A good travel jacket can make all the difference on a terribly uncomfortably cold flight. Ever gone out and got caught in a tropical rainstorm? Do you enjoy feeling cozy? Want to protect yourself from getting sick?

Your travel jacket(s) should be your best friend. 

But finding the best jackets for travel can be tricky because of all the different scenarios you might encounter and how easy a jacket might be to pack and carry (when you’re not wearing it).

If you’re a minimalist traveler like us, space in your luggage and bags is limited and precious . You’ll want to plan to economize what room you have. The greatest challenge for any traveler is to pack and plan for multiple seasons and situations. You don’t have enough space to bring all the things for all the situations. It’s also really expensive.

The best solution is to find travel gear that is functional and can serve multiple purposes, or in this case, is ready for different weather situations.

When it comes to the best jackets for travel, we’ve found that lightweight, packable jackets are the best options.

Updated: November 2023. Originally published: April 2019.

A lightweight travel jacket has the tech and features to face a variety of travel situations and is small enough that they don’t take up valuable space in your luggage.

Whether you a strolling through Europe exploring historical villages, taking a motorbike tour through central Vietnam, hiking through lush valleys in Hawaii, or braving the cool crisp air of New Zealand’s South Island, the best lightweight travel jackets work well separately and together as one system.

What to Look For in a Travel Jacket

When Jedd used to work at REI, he was taught the following information on what to look for in a jacket. The main thing you’re trying to do is regulate your body temperature to be a comfortable level. How do you do this?

1. Staying dry

• Protect yourself from wetness coming into the jacket AND from overheating causing sweat from underneath a jacket.

Why is this important?

• The less moisture touching your skin, the less your body temperature will be impacted by the weather. It’s why the temperature can be cold in two different places but will feel much colder in humid/moisture heavy environments. That being said, cold is cold! 🙂

2. Protection against the wind

Any layer on top of your skin will give you some basic protection against the wind. Certain materials do a better job blocking wind than others.

When the wind touches your skin, especially if it’s wet, it can drop your body temperature. Jedd was once at a waterpark in Colorado on a 85 degree day but once he got out of the water, the wind at the park made it feel really cold.

3. Breathable is more important than waterproof  

One of the biggest myths about buying a jacket is that a waterproof jacket is the best. If that were the case we’d all be wearing ponchos or the heavy duty stuff they wear on the Deadliest Catch, crab fishing in the Arctic.

What you want is a jacket that can both block a good amount of rain, but also breathes so you don’t feel clammy and sweaty underneath. Most of the time you shouldn’t be in a situation where you are caught in a quick deluge or even constant rain. In those situations, umbrellas are better shields and more helpful than jackets.

Not only are big waterproof raincoats uncomfortable but they make it hard to regulate your body heat (see point #2 above). It just feels gross (and is potentially smelly too). 

4. Insulate and keep enough body heat

While having a good shield to protect against water and wind is important, if you’re in a cold situation, this is not enough to keep warm. You’ll want a layer that can help insulate your body.

Layer with something like a down jacket that has built-in insulation. Word of caution, insulation and breathability should work together. You want to keep your warmth while also releasing extra heat to stay comfortable. Remember, everyone’s bodies are different and some people need a lot of insulation while other’s may need a little. 

Why is this important? Warmth.

5. Find a way to make your jackets work as a system

The most ideal situation is when you can wear all three jackets separately OR together if needed . Find an outer layer, a mid-layer, and a light layer . When we were in South Korea recently and the temperature dropped below 30 degrees, Jedd used all 3 of his jackets to provide wind protection and insulation. 

This is the best way to maximize the functionality of your jackets, to interchange them for a variety of situations.

BONUS: look and feel matters.

Like most things in life, you’ll use the things that look and feel good to you. That counts and matters when choosing the best jackets for travel. Features like hidden pockets, cellphone pocket, earbud hole pass through, etc are user specific. If this matters to you, then seek out jackets with these features.

Let’s review our favorite travel jackets for men and women…

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only recommend products and services we believe in, and the opinions expressed in this post are our own.

Best Travel Jackets for Men and Women

Our favorite, everyday go-to jackets are our high-tech, full-zip hoodies .

This isn’t your typical college hoodie. For most situations, it’s the go-to jacket. It can protect against wind, light rain, and with the right materials, can be both breathable and insulated for warmth.

• Pros: Great for daily use and most situations. Can be used as a mid-layer. Decent wind protection.
• Cons: Poor rain protection (think drizzle at best). Not the greatest for cold situations.
• Activities : Walking around town, business casual events in the NW, lounging at home.

Best travel jackets and hoodies for women

• Check out the KUHL Fleece Hoodie for Women
• Check out the Arc’teryx Kyanite Hoodie for Women
• Check out the Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoodie for Women

Best travel jackets and hoodies for men

• Check out the REI Co-op Hyperaxis Fleece Jacket 2.0 for Men
• Check out the Arc’teryx Kyanite Hoodie for Men
• Check out the Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Hoodie for Men

Best Lightweight Rain Jacket For Travel

We are huge fans of lightweight rain jackets. Light, compact-able, and can shield a decent amount of wind and rain, they can also be used a great first, outer layer. They are just so versatile!

• Pros: Good rain and wind protection. Can be used as the first outer layer. Can be packed down to almost nothing making it easy to bring along in any day bag.
• Cons: Not as comfortable to the skin as a mid layer. Noisy. Not the most comfortable to wear indoors. Will not last about 10 – 20 minutes in a downpour.
• Activities: Great for active use like hiking and running. Perfect for uncertain weather situations (think “chance of rain”).

Best lightweight travel rain jackets for women

• Check out the Patagonia Houdini Jacket for Women
• Check out the REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket for Women
• Check out the Outdoor Research Aspire II GORE-TEX Jacket for Women

Best lightweight travel rain jackets for men

• Check out the Patagonia Houdini Zip-front Jacket for Men
• Check out the Outdoor Research Helium II Men’s Rain Jacket
• Check out the Black Diamond StormLine Stretch Rain Shell Jacket for Men

Best packable down jacket

In the winter or cold situations, we live in these packable down jackets. They are so comfortable, cozy, and now days, have decent rain protection. Though they can be a little expensive, they are worth the investment. We’ve both gotten 4-5 years per down jacket we’ve owned.

• Pros: Soft, cozy and warm. Lightweight and compressible, especially when packed in its own small stuff sack. Can be used as a great mid layer for warmth. Bonus: comfortable to sleep in if needed for camping or destinations without heaters (like Mexico, Vietnam, etc…).
• Cons: Ok protection against weather elements (light snow and rain) for short periods. Can be too warm and unnecessary after the temperature reaches a certain point.
• Activities: Great for casual, cold weather conditions. Light hiking.

Best lightweight travel down jackets for women

• Check out the Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket for Women
• Check out the Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket for Women
• Check out the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 Down Hoodie

Best lightweight travel down jacket for men

• Check out the Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket for Men
• Check out the Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket for Men
• Check out the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 Down Hoodie for Men

Finals tips about the best light jacket for travel

Remember, the best jackets are the ones that meet your travel needs, are comfortable to wear, and fit your style. If you don’t like the way your travel jacket fits or looks, you’re not going to use it and that defeats the whole purpose of packing a jacket. 

When you do find the right jacket for your travels, treasure it because it will be your best companion for your adventures.

Do you have a favorite light travel jacket that you love? Share it with us in the comments.

You might also like these posts:

– Long Term Travel Clothing Essentials – Packing Hacks of Frequent Travelers – Our Favorite Alternatives to Travel Wallets – Minimalist Travel Toiletries List for Women – Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack Review

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The Best Travel Jackets for Men and Women

Stay warm and comfortable in a variety of weather with these easy-to-pack travel jackets for men and women..

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The Jack Wolfskin JWP Down jacket is available in a variety of colors for both men and women, packs down into a pouch the size of a Nalgene water bottle, and weighs about half a pound.

Courtesy of Jack Wolfskin

If you’ve ever struggled to shove a heavy wool coat or long puffer into an overhead bin or under your seat on an airplane, you know how important it is to find a jacket that travels as well as you. The best travel jacket not only keeps you warm but is also lightweight and packable enough to stash in your carry-on.

What to look for in a travel jacket

Outerwear can be a serious investment, but a worthwhile one since the best travel jackets should last much longer than a season or two. Before you start shopping, consider what kind of trip you’ll be taking. Ultra-light packers—say, those going backpacking—will want to find the warmest jacket that weighs the least. Those who will only be exposed to the elements as they dash from the subway to a museum or restaurant can forgo the puffer and opt for something sleeker. It’s also important to keep the following features in mind:

• Shell Material. Water-repellent nylon and polyester are lightweight and best at keeping wind, rain, and snow out, but less technical natural fabrics like denim and merino wool are ideal for transitional seasons or destinations with mild winters. If you’re trying to shop more sustainably, some companies use environmentally friendly fabrics like recycled polyester or plant-based nylons made from castor bean oil.
• Insulation Material. For puffer jackets, you can pick from either down or synthetic insulation. Down insulation—which comes from waterfowl like geese and ducks—tends to be lighter, warmer, and easier to compress. Look for products that have responsible down standard certification (RDS-certified), meaning the down is sourced from farms where birds are treated ethically. If budget is a concern or you’re heading somewhere damp, synthetic insulation is less expensive and doesn’t lose its insulating ability if it gets wet (unlike down). Because synthetic insulation is generally made from polyester, look for products made with postconsumer recycled polyester.
• Fill Power. The fill power on down insulated products accounts for how well the down lofts and traps heat. You’ll find that jackets with high fill power numbers cost more but are the lightest options because higher-quality down requires less down to trap heat. You won’t find fill power ratings on synthetic insulation—instead, that is measured by grams per square meter. Heavier weights account for warmer insulation. You’ll typically find this information listed on the tag in stores or in the “Materials and Care” section if you’re shopping online.
• Water Repellency. Unless you’re caught in a downpour, a jacket with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating is enough to keep you warm and dry in drizzly weather or a light snow. If you’re looking for fully waterproof shells, read more about the best rain jackets for travel .
• Packability. Many puffer coats come with pouches they can be stuffed into (and used as a travel pillow in some cases!), while uninsulated jackets are made with lightweight wool or cotton that can fold up and be tucked into your bag without demanding too much square footage.
• Price. Jackets that are made to last for years often won’t fall in the under $100 category. Same goes for companies that use sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing processes. Think of these jackets as investment pieces: They’ll be in your closet for years to come.
• Pockets. Pockets are useful for keeping your essentials close at hand—and also for keeping your hands warm. Look for jackets with interior storage pockets with zippers for keeping your stuff safe and exterior fleece-lined pockets for added coziness.

Taking all of these factors into consideration, here are the best travel jackets for women and men that will keep you warm and comfortable in a variety of weather.

Lightweight travel jackets

The women’s bomber-style Shak Lite is available in six different colors.

Courtesy of Ibex

Ibex Shak Lite Jacket

• Buy now: Women’s, $240, ibex.com ; Men’s, $240, ibex.com
• Sizing: XS-XL (women’s); S-XXL (men’s)
• Features: Two zippered hand pockets, machine washable

Made with merino wool responsibly sourced in Australia, the Ibex Shak Lite is the Goldilocks of jackets for transitional weather. Not too light or too bulky, it’s just right for fall and spring weather. Knitted in a thicker ponte style, it’s heavier than a sweater and can be used as an outer layer when temperatures begin to dip into the 60s Fahrenheit. It’s lightweight enough that you can throw it in your day pack and not worry about it taking up too much space. (But it doesn’t come with a pouch like other packable jackets, so be careful with what else you put in your bag.) In winter, it can also be used as a midlayer under an insulated jacket.

Available in both men’s and women’s sizes in a variety of colors, the collar on the women’s style tapers off like a bomber jacket, while the men’s collar zips straight up to the chin. As with all merino wool products, this jacket is naturally antimicrobial, so you can wear it many times in between washes. When you do need to freshen it up, it’s machine washable. Just be sure to line dry it or it could shrink like other wool products.

The Sea Denim Jacket comes in “Nitro,” a mid-dark wash seen here, as well as Amoroso, a washed-out black denim.

Courtesy of Warp + Weft

Warp + Weft Sea All Gender Denim Jacket

• Buy now: all gender sizing, from $58 (was $98), warpweftworld.com
• Sizing: XS-6XL (women’s); XXS-5XL (men’s)
• Features: Two hand pockets, two chest pockets

Unless you’re on a business trip or headed to a black-tie wedding, denim jackets are suitable for most scenarios. Casual enough for a morning coffee run but cool enough to wear out to a bar, a good jean jacket will keep you warm in that zone after summer ends but before you need to break out the serious insulation (for me, that’s until temperatures dip below 50 degrees). Another plus? Most denim jackets usually include two stash pockets on the inside—handy for keeping your phone, passport, and boarding pass easily accessible at the airport.

Warp + Weft’s Sea Denim Jacket has the stylings of a classic jean jacket and offers an extended all-gender size range (the equivalent of a women’s size XS to 6XL and a men’s XXS to 5XL). In addition to size inclusivity, Warp + Weft incorporates responsible processes into manufacturing its own denim from scratch. In addition to using 1,400 gallons less water than traditional denim manufacturing to make a pair of jeans, Warp + Weft treats and recycles 98 percent of the water it does use while also committing to fair wages and ethical practices for its workers.

Packable down jackets

The Ghost Whisperer UL Jacket comes in a variety of colors, including “Blue Slate,” seen here in men’s sizing.

Courtesy of Mountain Hardwear

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer UL Jacket

• Buy now: Women’s, $400, mountainhardwear.com ; Men’s, $400, mountainhardwear.com
• Features: Water repellent, RDS-certified down insulation, packable, two zippered hand pockets

The UL in Ghost Whisperer UL stands for Ultralight—and Mountain Hardwear isn’t messing around. At just 6.17 ounces, this jacket is the lightest option on this list (even with a hood!). But don’t worry, you won’t sacrifice warmth for weight: It’s made with the highest-quality 1,000-fill RDS-certified down that is bluesign-approved and fluorine free. It’s also just as packable as it is lightweight. When you don’t need to wear it, you can stuff the entire jacket into one of the hand pockets and it’ll take up the amount of space as a paperback book.

L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Down Hooded Jacket

• Buy now: Women’s, $249, llbean.com ; Men’s, $249, llbean.com
• Sizing: XXS-3X (women’s); S-XXL (men’s)
• Features: Water repellent, packable, two zippered hand pockets, zippered chest pocket

The L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Down Hooded Jacket is insulated with DownTek PFC-Free water repellent down that stays dry ten times longer than untreated down—a crucial detail if you ever get stuck in the snow or freezing rain. Its windproof and water-resistant nylon shell is made with 100 percent recycled fabric. When it’s not in use, it packs down into its own pocket for easy storage. Available in extended petite and plus sizes for women and tall sizes for men, it has over 1,200 five-star ratings on llbean.com.

The JWP Down jacket is available in six colors for men, including “Blue Pacific” seen here, and nine colors for women.

Jack Wolfskin JWP Down

• Buy now: Women’s, $90 (was $180), jackwolfskin.com; Men’s, $180, jackwolfskin.com
• Sizing: XS-XXL (women’s); S-XXXL (men’s)

This 700-fill down jacket from German outdoors retailer Jack Wolfskin is another good choice for light packers. It weighs roughly half a pound, depending on the size you order (a woman’s small weighs just 8.4 ounces and a men’s medium clocks in at 10.5 ounces). Made with water-resistant Stormlock fabric, this puffer helps keep wind and rain out and the warmth in, but it’s also breathable enough so you don’t have to worry about overheating. When you don’t need to wear it, it stuffs down into an included pouch smaller than the size of a Nalgene bottle.

Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket

• Buy now: Women’s, $80, uniqlo.com ; Men’s, $80, uniqlo.com
• Sizing: XXS-XXL (women’s); XXS-3XL (men’s)
• Features: Water repellent, down insulation, packable, two zippered hand pockets

For those who live in places with mild winters, an expensive puffer jacket you only use a few times a year might not be a necessary investment. But for trips when you do need an insulated jacket, Uniqlo’s Ultra Light Down will do the trick for under $100 and packs up into an included pouch the size of a water bottle.

The water-repellent coating on this jacket can ward off light rain and snow but is also thin enough to fit under a waterproof shell. Made with a minimum of 90 percent down, the 750 fill power is not as heavy duty as the premium Mountain Hardwear jacket mentioned above, but the coat is warm enough to ward off chills on an average NYC winter day that hovers between 30–40 degrees. Fans of Uniqlo’s Ultra Light Down will notice the Japanese company has altered the design to have a boxier silhouette and a new fly-front to cover the zipper to make it more stylish. For those who prefer hooded jackets, Uniqlo also offers that style in both men’s and women’s sizes for just $10 more.

Non-down alternatives

The Eco Space Hoodie comes in “Winter White,” seen here, as well as “Hunter Green” and “Onyx Black.”

Courtesy of Aether

Aether Eco Space Hoodie

• Buy now: Men’s, $350, aetherapparel.com
• Sizing: XS-XXL (men’s)
• Features: Water repellent, recycled synthetic insulation, two hand pockets

When Aether launched in Los Angeles in 2009, the idea behind the brand was to create clothing that could withstand the outdoors but wouldn’t make you look like you wandered off the Appalachian trail and into a city. Consider the brand’s signature Space Hoodie for men. At first glance, it looks like a regular hoodie. But upon closer inspection, you’ll realize this lightweight jacket is also water- and wind-resistant—it’s just made without the tell-tale quilting of a typical insulated puffer coat.

In 2021, it was updated with ecoconscious materials like recycled polyester ripstop fabric treated with a DWR coating; no perfluorinated chemicals (or PFCs) that can damage the environment are used. Its 80g PrimaLoft Bio insulation is made of postconsumer recycled synthetic fibers that reach nearly 94 percent biodegradation in under two years. As for warmth—that’s about enough to keep you cozy in most destinations. For extremely cold destinations, this jacket is lightweight enough to wear as a midlayer.

Columbia Titan Pass Double Wall Hybrid Jacket

• Buy now: Women’s, $240, columbia.com ; Men’s, $240, columbia.com
• Sizing: XS-XXL (women’s); S-XXL (men’s)
• Features: Water repellent, recycled synthetic insulation, packable, two fleece-lined hand pockets, one zippered chest pocket (exterior)

This puffer from Oregon-based Columbia uses multiple layers of proprietary technology to keep you warm. The exterior shell offers Columbia’s Double Wall layered construction to block wind and trap heat, while the interior relies on recycled synthetic down as insulation. The interior of the jacket is lined with a shiny gold thermal-reflective pattern—but it’s not just for looks. That’s Columbia’s Omni-Heat Infinity technology, which reflects your body heat back toward you while keeping the jacket lightweight and breathable.

In terms of packability, the exterior chest pocket doubles as a stuff sack for the jacket and includes a small loop, so you can hang the packed jacket off the side of your backpack. Packed down, the jacket takes up about as much space as a wine bottle would while weighing just under a pound.

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket

• Buy now: Women’s, $229, patagonia.com ; Men’s, $229, patagonia.com
• Sizing: XXS-XXL (women’s); XS-3XL (men’s)
• Features: Water repellent, recycled synthetic insulation, packable, two zippered hand pockets, internal zippered chest pocket

Patagonia’s puffer jackets are iconic for a good reason. Not only are they lightweight (the Nano Puff weighs just 10 ounces), but they’re also made using ecoconscious materials and sustainable manufacturing processes. The Nano Puff is made with a recycled polyester ripstop shell and insulated with 60g PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco, a 100 percent postconsumer recycled polyester. In addition to using bluesign-approved fabric—meaning it meets the highest safety standards for people and the environment–this jacket is also Fair Trade Certified , which means the people who sewed it earned a living wage for their work.

The Nano Puff’s internal zippered chest pocket can serve as a stuff sack so you can pack the jacket down to the size of a Kindle when you don’t need it. The stuff sack also includes a loop, letting you clip the packed jacket to your bag for easy carrying. For an additional $50, the Nano Puff is also available in a hooded version in men’s and women’s sizes.

Summersalt Reversible Packable Puffer

• Buy now: Women’s, $71 (was $95), summersalt.com
• Sizing: XS-2X (women’s)
• Features: Reversible, synthetic insulation, packable

If having options is more important than high-tech materials, this polyester puffer is fully reversible so you technically are packing two jackets for the space of one. (The pink and red jacket reverses to monochrome red.) That’s not the only clever design detail: When you’re not using it, you can fold the jacket up into an included pouch that is designed to work as a travel pillow.

“I bought this for a two-week trip to Japan and it was absolutely perfect. The color block makes it look stylish and designed and not boring at all—and it definitely keeps you warm,” one reviewer wrote online. “I loved folding it down into the little pouch, which stores easily in the inner pocket of the jacket, to pack away in my suitcase.” However, several reviewers pointed out it has a rather cropped fit, so if you have a long torso, this jacket may not be for you.

This article was originally published in 2021; it was updated on January 5, 2023, with current information.

Best Lightweight Women’s Jackets For Travel ( Practical and Stylish)

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: July 1, 2024

Home >> Travel Tips >> Travel Gear >> Best Lightweight Women’s Jackets For Travel ( Practical and Stylish)

Finding practical and stylish women’s travel jackets that don’t take up your entire bag, are comfortable, and travel well has always been challenging.

No matter the season or travel style, every lady needs a stylish, practical, and packable jacket when they travel. Some trips may even call for two. A good travel jacket is one of my must have travel essentials for women .

Table of Contents

I’ve put together this guide with the most practical, stylish, and packable women’s travel jackets for traveling for every season. Don’t take off on your next trip without a stylish and functional travel jacket in tow.

Need the perfect travel pants? We’ve got those too. See my top 5 Best Travel Pants for Women that are comfortable and stylish.

Choosing the Best Travel Jacket

Having traveled full time for over five years and still, as a frequent traveler, I know the importance of purchasing good travel clothes. Clothes that will work for more than one occasion, are practical in their form, look good, and take up little space in your luggage.

There is nothing worse than a cumbersome travel jacket.

This guide and review of the top women’s travel jackets are based on the following criteria.

• Design – so you don’t have to compromise style while traveling.
• Practicality – The design must be practical for travel.
• Suitability for the season and resistance against the elements.
• Weight of the jacket. A quality lightweight travel jacket is very achievable, even in winter.
• The packability of the jacket.
• Fabric for crease resistance, comfort, and easy care while traveling. 

The best jacket for travel can be worn in a variety of different circumstances, should be practical, and pack easily into your luggage.

Depending on the season, your jacket should keep you warm and protect you from the elements – especially if you are looking for a versatile 3 season jacket.

You Might Also Like:  A Guide to the Best Pickpocket Proof Clothing For Travel  and The  Best Jackets with Hidden Pockets for Men .

The Best Womens Travel Jacket Reviews

These are my top choices for great women’s travel jackets that are lightweight, practical, and stylish.

Marais Travel Trench Coat

Perfect for spring and fall travel and milder winters. 

• Relaxed fit trench jacket
• Long sleeve, adjustable sleeve tab with buttons
• Adjustable waist tunnel
• Hidden front placket
• Side seam pockets with flap
• Shoulder epaulets

From the luxury travel brand Anatomie, the stylish and chic Marais Travel Trench Coat is fashionable and functional.

The Marais is a relaxed trench design using quality, lightweight European fabrics—the perfect 3 season jacket for ladies who want a versatile yet chic jacket for travel.

Anatomie offers a lifetime guarantee on all their products, which speaks volumes about the quality of the design. The relaxed fit with adjustable drawstring waistband design promises to flatter any body shape while retaining all the classic trench coat design features such as shoulder epaulets.

The Marais also has high end finishes such as a hidden front placket, adjustable button sleeve tab, and side seam pockets with button-down flaps. It also has a lovely rounded rear hemline that scoops down toward the lower thigh, which is very flattering and keeps you warmer on cold days.

The Marais Travel Trench by Anatomie is available in classic black and camel and black two-tone.

(Use our exclusive Anatomie discount code  GET15OFF  for  15% off  any order)

Layering Tip

The lightweight nature of this jacket lends itself to layering.

In exceptionally cold, snowy, or freezing destinations, you can comfortably layer with a quality merino wool base layer such as an Icebreaker merino wool long sleeve base layer .

An item we recommend for all cold-weather travel. It offers exceptional warmth and takes little to no room in your luggage. 

Related: Find The Best Anti-theft Backpack for Travel Before Your Next Trip

Kenya Safari Jacket by Anatomie

Perfect for summer, spring, and fall travel . (Winter version also available)

• Flattering slim fit with comfortable waist length
• High neckline with double-snap closure
• Upper right and side pocket with zip pulls
• Wrinkle and wind-resistant
• Comfortable stretch fabric
• moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and highly durable
• Long sleeves with double snap closure on cuffs
• Fabric offers up to 50+ UPF protection

An Anatomie favorite, the best-selling Kenya Safari Jacket is a fashion-forward take on the classic safari jacket.

This jacket is designed with travel in mind. With loads of pockets for stashing daily essentials, it maintains a flattering slim profile that suits any body shape.

Made with Anantomie’s signature lightweight stretch woven fabric developed in France, the safari jacket is wrinkle-free, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and highly durable. But most of all, it is extremely comfortable and easy to care for while traveling. This is a fantastic jacket for traveling in Europe – a great addition to a shoulder season river cruise packing list .

This sleek and stylish women’s travel jacket works for adventure travel situations, like its safari namesake, but also has a chic urban vibe for city sightseeing or day-to-day wear.

I love this jacket for when you need to travel light. Pair it with one of our recommended under-seat wheeled cabin bags for a light and easy carry-on-only vacation. Available in 4 colors.

Seasonal Variations

The Anaotomie Kenya Safari jacket is so popular it also comes in seasonal versions – the Summer Kenya Jacket and the Kenya Cozy Fleece-Lined Jacket for winter.

Calvin Klein Women’s Chevron Quilted Packable Down Coat

Perfect for winter, fall, and spring travel. 

• Full-zip front for comfort and convenience
• Standing collar to keep the neck warm
• Side-entry hand pockets
• Fits into a drawstring pouch

If you prioritize brand and style, look no further than the Calvin Klein Women’s Chevron-Quilted packable down coat . Despite the mid-thigh length of this stylish puffer jacket, it is incredibly compact, folding up into a branded pouch. 

The Calvin Klein travel coat is insulated with lightweight feathers and down, making it wonderfully warm without compromising on style and without the added bulk. 

The modern and sophisticated style attached to the Calvin Klein brand is maintained in the brand’s innovative travel wear. 

With the added length, the chevron-quilted down coat is the best packable jacket to stay warm and dry in a chilly, wet climate. You’d be surprised at how much warmer you can be just by having your rear end covered in cold climates. 

The cut of this lightweight down coat is incredibly flattering with a tapered waist and high-standing collar, so it will look great in any travel situation. Best of all, it is easily packable. 

The only negative of this jacket is the side welt pockets don’t have a zipper, so be mindful of keeping valuable belongings in your pockets. 

This gorgeous travel jacket is available in 8 colors .

Eddie Bauer Women’s Departure Travel Blazer

Perfect for summer, spring, and early fall travel. 

• Single-button closure
• FreeDry® moisture-wicking stretch material blend
• Two double-layer flap pockets
• One reverse-coil zip pocket to keep essentials secure

The Eddie Bauer Departure Blazer is the best travel blazer for the female jet-setter. No other travel blazer combines a classic, stylish look with comfort like this one. 

The single-button blazer made from a polyester spandex blend has the right amount of stretch and wicks moisture to keep you looking good and feeling fresh. 

The fabric stays wrinkle-free even after sitting on a plane for hours, so you can go from the airport to a meeting without a single crease. Not just the perfect accessory for the traveling businesswoman, the Eddie Bauer blazer adapts beautifully for a classy night out or a mimosa brunch. This makes it a top contender for the best travel jacket for Europe.

The single-button blazer has a classic universal slim fit that will suit most body types. 

While the Eddie Bauer women’s departure blazer is excellent for travel, the material is rather thin, so you may want to also pack a warm-weather overcoat such as the Calvin Klein Women’s Chevron-Quilted Packable Down Coat for really cold weather destinations. 

Cole Haan Womens Packable Rain Jacket with Removable Hood

A perfect 3 seasons jacket. Light enough to be an all-year raincoat.

• Removable hood
• Water-resistant
• Bow tie detail at the back
• Vertical zip with flap
• Horizontal zip pockets
• Packs into a pouch

You’ll be looking forward to rainy days, so you can wear your Cole Haan Rain Jacket . Available in 7 colors , including canyon rose, black, and champagne, the single-breasted rain jacket promises to keep you warm, dry, and chic when the skies open up. 

Although not primed for freezing cold weather, the Cole Haan waterproof travel jacket is incredibly attractive and functional. It’s also great for layering.

The stylish look also works well as a lightweight spring jacket or worn with a sweater as a light fall jacket, not just a raincoat. 

The back bow tie customizes the fit or dresses it up for the evening – pair it with a skirt or heel. 

The jacket may be stylish and well-made, but it is more than a pretty face. If you’re looking for a rain jacket that folds into a pouch that doesn’t look dowdy, you’ve found it. 

This lightweight rain jacket for travel combines style, function, and portability. A jacket in a pouch for travel is perfect for keeping in your backpack or  crossbody bag  to have on hand when you need it. 

Riders by Lee Indigo Womens Stretch Denim Jacket

Perfect for summer, spring, and fall travel and mild winters paired with a sweater.

• 2 button flap closure pockets 
• 2 side entry pockets 
• Soft fabric provides give where you need it and comfort

 Traveling to a relatively temperate destination and only have space for a single jacket? Then the Riders by Lee Women’s Stretch Denim Jacket is a great choice.  

For a good reason, the classic style of a denim jacket has remained on trend over decades. The Riders by Lee stretch denim jacket is no exception.

Dress it up or down, depending on the occasion; this classic look works for all travel situations, day and night. 

Designed with comfort and style in mind, this women’s denim jacket has a classic fit but it gives where you need it thanks to a soft polyester blend to provide all-day comfort and flexibility.

What to Look for in a Good Travel Jacket for Women

If you want to travel light, you must be smart about what you pack. The more uses a single garment can fulfill, the better.

For example, if  traveling to Rome in winter, you’ll want to be both stylish and warm.

If you’re  visiting Bruges ; in the rainy season, you’ll want a jacket that can keep you dry and cozy. If you taking a road trip along the Maine coast , you might want a lightweight windbreaker.

Ideal Features of Good Travel Jackets

When deciding on the best travel jacket to pack, there are a few features to remember to help you make the best choice.

• Weight: Jackets and coats can take up a lot of space and can be quite heavy. A packable, lightweight travel jacket is your best option when trying to pack like a minimalist. Look for a light, warm jacket that won’t weigh you down.
• Pockets: A jacket without pockets is like a car without a trunk. Nifty little pockets can be a huge bonus when traveling. Even though you may have an anti-theft travel handbag; to store your things for the day, a well-thought-out travel jacket with pockets is always a good idea.
• Warmth: There’s no point wearing a jacket, even a light summer jacket, if it doesn’t keep you warm. The perfect jacket will remain lightweight while keeping you toasty when the air outside is crisp.
• Style: The ultimate travel jacket will be both stylish and practical. When choosing an all-purpose jacket for women, consider where you’ll wear it. Look for a jacket that can be worn confidently in various circumstances. 
• Packability: A packable jacket can make a world of difference. There’s nothing worse than a badly folded jacket that emerges creased after a long-haul flight. Or worse, take up your entire suitcase. The packability of a jacket is a key feature to consider.

Quality, down packable jackets can make excellent all-around 3 season lightweight travel jackets without the bulk of a heavy winter coat.

The North Face Women Thermoball Packable Down Jacket

Calvin Klein Women’s Chevron Packable Down Coat

What is your luggage allowance?

All airlines have  luggage restrictions , so you must consider how much you can pack. Some will even have restrictions as to what you can carry onboard.

On some airlines, a coat is considered a personal item and can account for part of your total allowance. 

If you are traveling for business and only carrying hand luggage, a small, lightweight jacket such as a travel blazer or ultralight down jacket in a pouch may be the right choice. 

Heading to a winter destination? A packable down jacket makes a great space-saving option in your luggage. Especially if you don’t want to be carrying a bulky coat on the plane . A down jacket in a bag also makes a great travel pillow. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Good Travel Jacket for Women

With the key features of the best travel jacket in mind, let’s consider other factors that will help you choose from the many options out there.

The following questions will help you decide on which jacket best suits your needs and style of travel.

Where are you traveling to?

Your choice of destination will determine the type of jacket you will need. Research the temperature and climate of your destination at the time that you will be visiting. 

Be mindful that the weather in some destinations can vary wildly in just one day—more reason for a packable jacket that stores easily in your handbag or backpack. 

Even if you’re heading to a warm destination, such as Vietnam , you probably won’t need a heavy-duty, lined jacket to keep you warm.

However, you may want to find a packable, lightweight waterproof travel jacket to take with you. Anti-theft features may also be a consideration in this instance. 

Do you need jackets with hidden pockets?

The safety of the destination will also have a role to play in the jacket you pack.

Women’s travel jackets with hidden pockets provide a safe way to store items you need to access easily throughout the day. Perfect for popular tourist destinations where pickpockets tend to operate. 

What is your traveling style?

Different styles of traveling can influence how you pack for a trip. If you are backpacking through a region, you’ll want to find a warm, lightweight jacket for travel that’s easy to carry around. 

If you’re exploring a city, you want a versatile jacket that works from day to night and has a functional pocket configuration for the belongings you need. 

The Best Women’s Travel Jackets For All Seasons

These top choices for the best travel jackets for women promise to keep you warm, dry, and stylish while keeping your belongings safe in every season.

Whether it’s a lightweight spring jacket you’re after for city sightseeing, a waterproof jacket for hiking or a stylish winter packable jacket, these jackets are proof you don’t need to compromise style for practicality when it comes to a good women’s travel jacket. 

• Travel Clothes

Best Travel Jackets

Published June 10, 2023

Written by:

Laura Lopuch

Laura’s first trip was when she was 3 months old, instilling an insatiable wanderlust. She hasn’t stopped traveling, or writing...

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

The Tortuga Promise

At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

I stared at the pile of jackets on my bed.

Trevor, my husband, sighed.  “It’s time for bed. Just pick one.”

I threw up my hands, paced the room a little, fingered one jacket and another. See, I hate being cold and wet when I’m traveling. Actually, let me amend that statement. I hate being cold. If I’m semi-warm, being wet is tolerable and maybe even enjoyable.

Pack for trips of one week or more without checking a bag.

• Thick comfortable straps
• Easy to organize
• Durable, waterproof fabric
• Backed by our Worldwide Warranty

Which means picking the right jacket for travel is tricky. Like walking into a casino with a dim notion of how to play blackjack and betting your life savings.

At least that’s how it feels to me. So when I find the right jacket for the right weather situation, I’m the lucky winner with gold coins raining down on my head, dancing like Psy in the  Gangnam Style  music video.

Here’s a lineup of the best travel jackets for both the men and ladies to feel comfortable when cold weather strikes at your destination.

The Best Lightweight Jackets for Travel

The North Face Women’s Thermoball Eco Jacket ($199)

With wind protection and the ability to compress into a tiny ball yet keep you toasty-warm, this jacket might be your new travel BFF. Oh, and it’s water and wind resistant.

Thanks to its slim fit, you won’t look like an overstuffed marshmallow. But inside, you might feel as warm and cozy as a fire-toasted one.

One reviewer on Amazon raves:  “This is the perfect travel jacket for multiple weather conditions. It is probably not for Arctic weather, but works great for layering and easy roll up and shove into a backpack or even purse . I bought it for a two week trip to South Africa, wherein I was first in Paris for a few days, next on safari, Johannesburg and then Cape Town. It went easily from chilly mornings to being able to roll it up and pack it away for warmer afternoons. Also easy to tie around waist.”

Another reviewer agrees:  “This jacket is unbelievably warm… and great for touring a in cold city like New York. I was warm outside while walking and sightseeing… when I came indoors, this tiny little miracle folded up and went in my purse!”

Columbia Women’s Kruser Ridge II Softshell ($100)

I’ve always envied my husband’s black UnderArmour jacket that he bought 10+ years ago. A lightweight soft shell that’s wind and water resistant, he’s carried that jacket on almost every trip and it’s never let him down. If only it came in women ’s sizes.

This jacket reminds me strongly of his. Only with more feminine lines. And made by a different company. This soft shell, warm jacket could be your next “weather looks overcast and rainy, probably bring a jacket” coat for the next 10 years. Just saying.

prAna Women’s Mandel Jacket ($129)

This jacket is ready for anything you throw its way. Seriously.

With an organic cotton-nylon blend stretch canvas shell, it can handle whatever your trip throws down. Rain? No problem. Snow? Bring it. Brisk wind? Let’s do this. Sudden change in the weather? Got you covered.

Thanks to an attached hood, you’ll ward off any chillier-than-yesterday breezes without trouble. Did I mention it even looks adventure-ready with safari-style pockets?

Lululemon Men’s City Sweat Zip Hoodie French Terry ($128)

Jeremy, co-founder of Tortuga, recommends a Lululemon hoodie like this one. He says,  “They’re super comfortable for flights and tend to have an abundance of sleek pockets that are either zippered or have snaps. They last forever and dress up or down. All of mine have been in black.”

This particular hoodie boasts Lycra fabric so your jacket doesn’t go saggy and hidden pockets for your smartphone and coins. All the better to travel without looking like a tourist.

Ministry of Supply Intelligent Heated Jacket: Men and Women ($495)

This smart jacket “uses artificial intelligence to learn your preferences, and automatically heats to your optimal temperature” according to their website. Ok, you have my attention.

With your smartphone app, you control the jacket’s thermostat. Thanks to its ability to repel wind, snow, water, and odors, this jacket is primed to be your travel buddy on every trip.

Patrick, designer at Tortuga, says: “I’ve worn it in a full range of temperatures from 60F to 15F. It takes some time to heat up enough for temperatures that low, but it’s definitely doable.”

Icebreaker Women’s Merino Quantum Hoodie ($169)

Don’t let the word hoodie fool you. This is a women ’s jacket that can hold its own.

Reflective details, breathable fabric, warm midweight merino wool, and a fitted hood. Yup, this jacket checks all the correct boxes for a travel-ready summer jacket to fend off cool English nights or those Scottish moor winds (romantic in theory, chilly in practice, a no-go for long-haul traveling).

Even better, because of merino’s natural odor resistance, you’ll smell as sweet as the day you set off. Oh thank goodness.

The Best Rain Jackets for Travel

When you say “waterproof travel jacket” or, more simply, “rain jacket”, you mean a shell. Shells have been a crucial part of  winter packing  forever, and while the outer layer shell hasn’t changed much in the past 20 years, there are still some pretty great options.

Going somewhere rainy and need seriously waterproof travel jacket?  Stacey has you covered in this article.

Craghoppers NatGeo 250 Jacket ($200)

The Craghopper NatGeo 250 travel jacket was designed for adventurous photographers and journalists. If this jacket can live up to the rigorous field test of NatGeo employees, it can handle whatever adventure you have in mind.

Featuring “Aqua Dry” and “Thermo Air+” waterproofing and breathability, as well as a pocket with built in RFID shielding technology ( not really necessary ), this jacket is for the pros.

Columbia Watertight II Windbreaker ($55)

The Columbia Watertight II windbreaker is definitely the lightest travel jacket on the list, and easily my personal favorite. A slim, carry on friendly top layer, this travel jacket simply performs. It keeps you warm, dry, and doesn’t weigh you down. What else are you looking for?

I packed this rain coat for my 800km hike across Spain on the Camino de Santiago this past October. When every ounce counts, you want a jacket that’s worth it, and the Watertight performed beautifully. This jacket stuffs into its own pocket (easy to pack), and it kept me dry in several downpours in the high altitude of the Pyrenees.

Elastic on the cuffs, waistband, and even the trim of the hood kept the wind and wet off my skin and locked in my body heat.

The color options are stylish enough to wear in town without any tourist shame, and while this jacket doesn’t have any insulation to speak of (it’s super thin), the jacket kept me warm without overheating thanks to the breathability. Worth packing as a great top layer for wind, rain, and chilly mornings and evenings, and when you just don’t have any room for a bulky winter coat–even a “travel jacket.”

Pro Tip : If your jacket doesn’t pack into a stuff pocket, save space by rolling it into a tight cylinder and wrap a thick rubber band around it to keep it bundled in the bottom of your bag until you need it.

Helly Hansen Squamish CIS 3-in-1 Travel Jacket ($225)

I love the flexibility of a 3-in-1 travel jacket, but so often the insulated layer/outer shell combo is more like a 3-in-none than a candidate for the best travel jacket. Not so with the Helly Hansen Squamish jacket.

 The insulated layer is great for keeping you warm around the bonfire or a chilly clear night out without the added protection of the outer shell. Just zip it off and you’re good to go.

  Bonus:  It doesn’t look like the “inside” of a jacket, so that’s good.

The outer shell layer is perfect all by itself for a fall hike with rain in the forecast. Fully seam sealed so it’s wind and waterproof, the jacket features nice touches like a storm flap on the front zipper pocket, and waterproof pockets for your phone, as well as adjustable cuffs (super important). If you wear both layers together, take solace in the fact that you can adapt to warmer temps or sunny weather as the day changes.

The Best Winter Jackets for Travel

Icebreaker Merino Women’s Stratus Zip Hooded Jacket ($262)

This full-length jacket is lined with New Zealand merino wool to keep you warm. The jacket’s outside is treated with DWR, so sleet or snow slides right off. Reviewers recommend buying a size larger than needed.

Women’s prAna Long Jacket ($199)

This long, insulated jacket comes with a removable faux fur hood detail. Plus, it’s made from a recycled wool blend, so you can feel good about saving the planet.

 Tortuga writer Meg just took this jacket on a winter trip to notoriously chilly Chicago. She says,  “I love that it’s longer (covers your butt!) and it’s super warm without being too bulky or making me feel like that kid that can’t put his arms down in a Christmas Story.”

Patagonia Men’s Nano Puff Travel Jacket ($199)

If you want to take your winter jacket to the limit, the even slimmer Patagonia Nano Puff travel jacket is the way to go.

Insanely lightweight while still being warm, this jacket is windproof, water-resistant (DWR treated), and will maintain up to 96% of its warmth rating even when wet.

Not bad for a jacket you can crumple up in your fist.

Travel Jackets with Hidden Pockets

Baubax Men’s and Women’s Windbreaker 2.0 ($178)

The BauBax Windbreaker is part of a full line of outerwear launched after the record breaking success of the BauBax sweatshirt on Kickstarter. 

The windbreaker features all the same gizmos and gadgets–like a built-in inflatable neck pillow, eye mask, gloves, iPad pocket, stylus (it’s in the zipper), water-resistant phone pocket, double lined hand warmer pockets, passport pocket , and more.

If you want to squeeze every ounce of functionality out of your travel jacket, look no further.

SCOTTeVEST Pack Windbreaker ($124)

Equipped with 13 pockets for on the go digital nomads, the ScotteVest Pack Jacket is a tech friendly beast.

In addition to the standard two zippered pockets this jacket has two chest pockets, an extendable key holder,  sunglasses  pocket, passport pocket, iPad pocket, phone pocket (with headphone cable access) and the “weight management system” to keep everything in place and balanced  so you don’t bulge and sag like a tourist. However, the best pocket might be the back pocket. You can stuff the Pack Jacket in and it’s a handy case.

The Action Jacket ($159)

Designed by a former Army Ranger, this jacket is built for active travel at any destination. 

Featuring a water-resistant, super lightweight, stretchable “ninja” fabric weave, breathable back vents, contoured hood, reflective strips, and adjustable cuffs and hem. The action jacket is designed to be tailor fitted to your body so you forget you’re wearing it. 

However, the coolest part has to be the phone pocket. The seam sealed zipper and adjustable tension strap keep your phone dry and snug against your arm. No more bouncing around on that morning jog, or sprint through the airport terminal.

Perfect for listening to your favorite tunes, staying dry on a hike, or throwing over your insulated layers, this travel jacket packs down into an attached pocket and “weighs less than a banana.” 

Seriously. This might become your new favorite travel jacket.

Best Fashionable Jackets For Travel

Canada Goose Brookvale Hoody ($525)

I know, I know. Canada Goose is super expensive and you’re totally “that traveler” when you wear one, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention these top of the line travel jackets.

 The Brooklvale Hoody is a lighter, leaner jacket than the flagship parka, and the versatility really comes through.

 This jacket looks great, but really is built for winter.

The quilting and patented duck down means this jacket is rated for -15C (that’s icy), and the “Veraflex” fabric means you can wear it in practically any environment. Even better, the Brookvale hoody packs down into its own stuff pocket for increased packability. Expensive, but worth it.

Strafe Drifter Jacket ($249)

A modern twist on the classic bomber look, if you’re not weathering any major storms, this is the jacket for looking good in winter.

Made from a stretchy, breathable fabric filled with warm, “diamond quilted Primaloft Silver insulation” (so fancy), the Strafe Drifter Jacket is a premium lightweight stylish travel jacket.

TopShop Rosa Biker Jacket ($88)

I’d be amiss—and Tom Cruise would be sorely disappointed in me—if I didn’t add in a black leather bomber jacket to this list.

Want to look BA and fashionable? Want to look dangerous, mysterious, and charming?

A black leather bomber jacket gives you all that, plus warmth and decent wind-blocking abilities. But really, if you just want to drape yourself in bad boy allure, that’s cool, too.

That’s the main reason why I bought one.

Pro-tip:  This bad boy does NOT pack down, and doesn’t apologize either.

A travel jacket can make or break your trip. No joke. One time in  Boston , the constant rain was so bad, I walked into a store and bought a raincoat. Who cares what the price was. Just no more rain ruining my day.

That’s the benefit of a great jacket: to keep you dry and warm so you enjoy the sights you traveled so far to see.

The best all-around lightweight jacket is either:

•  A  hoodie  (like this  men’s Lululemon one  or this  women’s Icebreaker one )
• This jacket from Ministry of Supply ( men’s version  and  women’s version )

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Max Carry On Size

Laura’s first trip was when she was 3 months old, instilling an insatiable wanderlust. She hasn’t stopped traveling, or writing about it. As an expert in carry on travel, she’s flown on over 100 flights with only a carry on bag. Even on trips with her husband and kids.

She believes travel is the great educator — and vital to our humanity.

Read more from Laura

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