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The 17 Best Men’s Travel Shirts for Style, Comfort, and Adventure

As much as I hate to admit it, the perfect men’s travel shirt doesn’t exist.  You might find comfortable travel shirts that look good – but those same “perfect travel shirts” may be too delicate to adventure hard in, dry too slowly, and get destroyed when you drop it off at a Southeast Asian laundry kiosk. On the other hand, a shirt may dry quickly and withstand a beating but be a little too ugly to be your only shirt. So what’s the solution?

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

The solution to the “perfect travel shirt” problem is to strategically pick a few shirts for your travels with a dedicated shirt for looking good, a few shirts for adventuring and wandering hard, and an all-purpose shirt that sits somewhere in between – and I think I’ve mastered this compromise.

Read on to discover my favorite shirts for traveling, adventuring, and still looking good along the way

travel design shirts

CONTENTS OF THIS GUIDE TO THE BEST MEN’S TRAVEL SHIRTS

  • My optimal travel shirt setup
  • What to look for in a Good Travel Shirt Based on Your Travels
  • Technical Flannel Shirts
  • Travel Ready Dress Shirts
  • Short Sleeve Oxfords
  • Denim Travel Shirts
  • Hawaiian Shirts
  • My Favorite Travel Jacket: The Bluffworks Field Jacket

THE OPTIMAL SHIRT SETUP FOR TRAVEL

If you want your packing list to be ready for anything, pack the following shirts in addition to some travel-ready pants and travel-worthy shoes :

  • One shirt for looking good and going out – a versatile button down shirt, ideally short sleeve oxford that is sweat wicking and wrinkle free or a denim shirt
  • One shirt that doubles as a warmth layer but can be worn anywhere – I’m a fan of lightweight, technical flannel shirts
  • Three or more travel friendly t-shits –a mix of short sleeves, V-necks, and Henleys made of wool, synthetic materials (polyester), or a proven active wear blend to dry quickly and resist funk

If you stick to these three options, you’ll keep your bags light while still being ready for any occasion or adventure.  Read on to discover my favorite options for Men’s travel shirts.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A GREAT TRAVEL SHIRT

Keep in mind that though a shirt might be branded as a great “travel shirt” it still may be over kill (or inadequate) for your travels.  To pick the right travel shirt, that will keep you comfortable, looking good, and smelling good through whatever travels you have in store, think heavily about your destination and consider these points in your potential shirts…

What is the right style for your travels (if any) based on the destination if any?

What materials are best (polyester, wool, or an active wear cotton blend), durability: how hard will your adventures be on these shirts.

  • Versatility: What situations will you need to dress for?

Smell and dirt resistance: How often will you be able to shower and do laundry?

If you’re going to Europe, having a nice short sleeve button down is highly recommended.  If you’re going to Southeast Asia, don’t even think about taking any long sleeve shirts.

If you’re doing the Banana Pancake Trail (Thailandà Laosà Vietnamà Cambodia) and the most you’ll do is a pub crawl, ditch the fancy stuff

My 11 Favorite Travel Shirts to Adventure Hard & Look Good

And if you’re heading to Bali, plan on beachwear and your “nice clothes” being shorts and a nice short sleeve shirt.

In any case, think about the situations you’ll be in and the style required (or not required) to avoid extra clothing.  Here’s a quick cheat list to help

  • Southeast Asia: You’ll be in sandals and shorts the entire time.  No long sleeves.
  • South America: It may get chilly and adventurous, especially if you’re going to Patagonia, so a long sleeve flannel, an “island-ish” short sleeve button down, and plenty of Merino Wool/Quick Dry t-shirts will do you well.  Also, bring a set of nice clothes – as Buenos Aires, Rio, Cusco, and Medellin have some amazing nightlife
  • Europe: You’ll only need one or two “adventurous” pairs of clothes at most (unless you’re trekking).  Dress for the seasons as  winter in Europe is vastly different than summer
  • Middle East: Dress conservatively and plan for the deserts to be hot by day and cold by night. You’ll be surprised how far a wool t-shirt and flannel button-down will take you here.
  • North America: Dress for the seasons and for specific locations.  We’re all across the board in the US and Canadialand.
  • Central America: No long sleeves.  Plan to exist completely in shorts and sandals.

If you can afford it, wool is the most amazing material for shirts .  ( Read about how I decided to wear a wool shirt for a week straight to test the idea).  They resist funk, still keep you warm when wet, and dry quickly.  The only downside is these shirts will breakdown quicker than polyester – especial if you’re using an industrial washer.

Polyester/synthetic shirts are an excellent, cheap option, especially for hard adventuring.  You can purchase them at target for ~$10 or less and they stand up to heavy abuse.  Along the way, they dry quickly and insulate when wet. The downside is they don’t resist funk too well.  Personally, I always hike and travel (by bus, train, and plane) in synthetic shirts because they’re so cheap I don’t care if they get destroyed.  I recommend picking up at least a couple synthetic t-shirts for routine wear in hard conditions.

Cotton: Limit how much of your wardrobe is cotton.  Depending on how often you’re getting wet and how often you wash, cotton can be fine or can be a complete pain.  On the upside, some cotton shirts look good, they’re extremely durable, and they can stand to go a good amount of time between washes in a pinch (denim, not necessarily t-shirts). The only options I consider in cotton are Short sleeve button downs which class up very well, and denim shirts which are super durable, look good, and are a great protect layer for light adventures (like motorbiking in Asia .

The only upside of cotton is that it is much tougher than wool and polyester, with good abrasion resistance and actually gets better with wear.  This is why my denim shirt was my shirt of choice to wear during my motorbike ride through Vietnam , to save a little skin just in case I fell.  All the while, it still looked good enough for the bars.

My 11 Favorite Travel Shirts to Adventure Hard & Look Good

If you’re in Europe and (should be) showering everyday and have laundry nearby, materials and worrying about getting smelly shouldn’t be too much of an issue.

On the other hand, if you’re moving super quickly through humid Southeast Asia or adventuring through South America and can only wash ever week and a half, do yourself a favor and get shirts made of technical materials (wool, polyester, etc.) that wick sweat, resist odor, and do more to keep you dry.

Now that you know what to look for in a travel shirt, let’s take a closer look at your options

THE BEST MEN’S TRAVEL SHIRTS

  • T-Shirts (Wool, Polyester, and active wear blends – timeless, simple, near perfect travel shirts)
  • Technical Flannel Shirts (every traveler should have one)
  • Wrinkle Free Dress Shirts (great for looking good anywhere)
  • Short Sleeve Oxfords (great for looking good anywhere)
  • Denim travel shirts (the “all-arounder” and travel shirt underdog)
  • Hawaiian Shirts (for Beachy Travel)

BEST T-SHIRTS FOR TRAVEL

(wool, polyester, and active wear blends).

As unexciting as it sounds, t-shirts are by far the best travel shirt option. They’ve been around for ages, worn in every activity, and performed well while staying stylish every step of the way.  If you take only one type of shirt traveling, stick to t-shirts.

In terms of style, you can’t go wrong with a well fitting t-shirt.

The small packing foot print of t-shirts makes them easy to pack and wash, lightening your load and making life easier.

My 11 Favorite Travel Shirts to Adventure Hard & Look Good

Some might insist that t-shirts are too boring to wear for a year straight.  I disagree.

To stay looking good (and not get bored), avoid traditional crew neck t-shirts and light V-neck and Henley shirts in dark colors (grey, burgundy, darker blue, black).

For material, invest in at least two wool shirts and grab two cheaper synthetic shirts. 

I have been very satisfied with Wooly’s merino wool t-shirts, Bluffworks’ synthetic travel t shirt, Outlier’s insanely great Ultrafine Merino shirt, and a handful of others I’ve tested and highly recommend below. 

For active wear synthetic shirts, my go to is actually the Hylete Icon-2 performance Henley, designed as gym wear but looks so great I wear it on nights out. For a Target’s G9 Champion brand shirts which are comparable in quality, function, and style to Lulu Lemon’s men’s line and quite a few of Nike’s pieces, but available for ~$10 to $20 for us budget travelers .  

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves…read on for the 17 best travel t-shirts for men, and you’ll definitely find the perfect gear for your upcoming travels.

My Favorite T-Shirts for Travel

1. bluffworks threshold tee.

travel design shirts

This amazing t-shirt was obsessively designed specifically for travel. If you’re trying to keep your bags light by getting a shirt that you can wear over and over (without washing) in a variety of conditions, the Bluffworks Threshold T is a perfect candidate.

High breathability, great odor resistance, and a feel softer than cotton make this a great shirt to wear. A unique synthetic blend keeps this shirt super light while drying quickly and making hand washes and line drying possible for “one bag” travelers”

Where to buy: Click to see more colors at Bluffworks Online

2. THE OUTLIER ULTRAFINE MERINO T SHIRT

travel design shirts

This is insanely soft yet comfortable and durable shirt is absolutely the best wool shirt I have ever owned.

Made of 100% extremely fine Merino wool, this shirt naturally resists odor (I’ve worn the shirt for a week straight to test), dries quickly, and does a wonderful job keeping me cool even in tropical climates.

The construction is top notch, very durable and cut with a just slim enough and stylish fit. With 2 or 3 of these shirts, a traveler could easily wander the world with these as their only shirts.

Where to buy: Click to see more colors Outlier Online

3. THE HYLETE ICON HENLEY

travel design shirts

The Hylete Icon 2 Henley is a perfect blend of style and function that fits daily life, adventure, and travel equally. The quad blend performance fabric (that is stretchy, odor resisting, and quick drying) and design are actually intended as hard core exercise that can be worn in everyday life. With the classic Henley stylish three button front, this dresses up nicely with Chinos and a blazer or will simply keep you looking good on long treks.

From the cool highlands of the Himilayas to the warm days and posh night clubs of Bali, this Hylete Henley has been a favorite piece of apparel in my pack and will continue to be. I highly recommend this affordable yet stylish piece of performance gear for your travels

Where to buy: Click to see more colors available at Hylete Online.

4. WOOLY CLOTHING

My 11 Favorite Travel Shirts to Adventure Hard & Look Good | ABrotherAbroad.com

Woolly Clothing offers great wool clothing direct to you, which means its cheaper than many other options.  I own a few of their shirts (a V-neck and a Henley) and wholeheartedly vouch for the.  Great style.  Great performance

Where to buy: Check out the selection of Woolly Clothing on Amazon

5. C-9 CHAMPION TEES

travel design shirts

Champion C9 is Target’s in house attempt to compete with active wear giants like Nike and Lulelemon for the men’s athletic wear market.  The result is great gym wear that wears beyond the gym for a great price.  I always load up on a few of these shirts for upcoming travels whenever I’m in the US.

Where to buy: $12.99 at Target

6. H&M ACTIVE WEAR V-NECKS

travel design shirts

Though these shirts somewhat break my rule of avoiding cotton, the 95% cotton/5% Elastene blend works extremely well.  Not only do these shirts fit well and maintain that fit, they dry much quicker than normal cotton shirts and resist funk pretty well too.  I tested these shirts against high dollar “performance cotton” shirts from other brands (think $60-$80 per shirt) and the H&M slim fit shirts performed much better.

If you’re ever traveling and in a pinch need some shirts anywhere in the world, just drop by an H&M and pick these up. 

Where to buy: $24.99 for 3 at H&M Online

7. RIDGE MERINO JOURNEY TEE

travel design shirts

The Ridge Merino Journey tee is an awesome, travel-ready wool tee-shirt design for durability, hard use, and quick-drying comfort while still fighting funk. This Merino Wool shirt combines 13% nylon into the fabric, making it twice as durable as your average, 100% Merino wool t-shirt. The result is a high performing wool t-shirt that you can abuse for years.

I’ve carried my Ridge Merino Journey tee shirt for just over 2 years of travel and worn it for a week straight without washing, and the anti-microbial nature of the wool keeps me smelling fresh. Hard use of trekking, hand washing, and abrasion from backpacks hasn’t damaged the shirt at all over the two years, proving this is one tough t-shirt

If you’re looking for a single, comfortable t-shirt that looks good and is adventure ready, check out the Ridge Merino Journey t-shirt.

Where to buy: Click to see availability at Ridge Merino online

TECHNICAL FLANNEL SHIRTS

A single technical flannel shirt is a priceless addition to the traveler wardrobe.  Wool flannel shirts are great (I have a Pendleton Board Shirt that I love) and there are plenty of other synthetic “technical flannel” shirts combine nylon and polyester to be just as warm, more durable, and are much lighter and easier to pack.

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

Additionally, the right flannel shirts can add a touch of style if you pick the right one.  My current flannel works in nearly any occasion, and my Uniqlo Oxford Travel shirt works in the rest of those classy sitauations.

I tested Eddie Bauer’s Traveler Flannel Shirt and fell in love (you’ll see pictures all over the site of me in it) and purchased 3 while it was on sale.  Plus, there are several other options for travel ready technical flannel shirts– read on to discover my picks

MY FAVORITE FLANNEL SHIRTS FOR TRAVEL

8. eddie bauer technical flannel.

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

A flannel shirt crafted perfectly for travelers.  Lightweight polyester and “FreeDry” technology insulates like a jacket when cold but wicks moisture and breathes to keep you cool and dry in the heat.  The fit on this shirt is more classic, giving you room to move make it great for exploring the outdoors and getting active.  The cuff accent colors offer a great touch too.

I’ve toted this shirt around for the last year, love it, and can’t recommend it enough.

Where to buy: From $35 to $70 at Eddie Bauer Online

9. THE PENDLETON BOARD SHIRT

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

The Pendleton Board shirt, originally rocked by surfers in the 60’s is a classic that goes anywhere, and being 100% virgin wool is extremely functional too.  It stays warm through the cold and the rain and still breathes in the heat.  I’ve worn mine around more campfires and in more national parks than I can remember – and with good reason.  Better yet, I can wear it right into the city and no one is the wiser.

A timeless shirt that you’ll literally be able to wear forever

Where to buy: $135 at Pendleton.com

10. ICEBREAKER LODGE SHIRT

My 11 Favorite Travel Shirts to Adventure Hard & Look Good | ABrotherAbroad.com

Icebreaker’s new take on a classic.  100% Merino Wool, this shirt is as technical as it gets, performing in the outdoors (and traveling) while still looking good enough for city life. 

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

The Merino wool fights odor and stays warm throughout.  Pair with a Merino wool t-shirt for best results

Where to buy: $135 at REI online

TRAVEL READY DRESS SHIRTS

Most commonly labeled “easy care” and targeting business travelers, these shirts are a perfect “dress up” shirt for travelers.  They are usually sweat wicking, breathable, and wrinkle free but have the cut of a nicer button down Oxford.

Best yet, good options can be had for very cheap through Uniqlo and H&M and even better options can be found through Bluffworks that cost a bit more but are well worth the money.

One of my two current “dress up” shirts is actually a Uniqlo easy care oxford that I wore through the cold season of Europe and then came to Asia, chopped of the sleeves and had it sewn for ~$5, and now wear as my island shirt.  But there are plenty of shirts that you won’t have to chop in order to look good.  Read on for my faves.

11 . WESTERN RISE AIRLIGHT BUTTON DOWN

travel design shirts

This high tech, travel focused, easy care button down gives you the style of a dress shirt and the durability/easy care you need for travel.

49% Nylon added to the fabric delivers abrasion resistance and easy care properties that make a good shirt to tuck in the bottom of your bag or bring as your only shirt.

Finally, the slim and stylish fit make this shirt perfect for daily wear and long term “one bag” travel just as much as outdoor adventures.

Where to buy: $109 at Western Rise | Click here to check available colors

12. UNIQLO EASY CARE DRESS SHIRT

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

If you’re on a budget and still need to look good during your travels, Uniqlo’s easy care dress shirts are a great option.  The technical materials breathe, wick sweat, and resist wrinkles so you can wear them longer without caring. I wore one of these through Europe and then chopped of the sleeves to make it my casual island shirt…worked like a charm!

Where to buy: $29.90 at Uniqlo.com

13 . BLUFFWORKS MEDIAN TRAVEL SHIRT

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

A completely “technical” dress shirt, blending 98% polyester and 2% spandex gives the sweat wicking, anti-microbial qualities so you can wear longer, along with wrinkle resisting qualities and freedom of movement so you can stay comfortable along the way.  If you need to “class up” on the road, the Bluffworks Meridian dress shirt is a safe bet.

Where to buy: $98 at Bluffworks

SHORT SLEEVE OXFORD SHIRTS

Though these commonly break the travel rule of “no cotton”, they actually manage to work very well.

My 11 Favorite Travel Shirts to Adventure Hard & Look Good | ABrotherAbroad.com

First, the airflow you get from a button prevents you from sweating all over it and getting it completely nasty

Second, most people only wear button down shirts when lounging, so you get away with washing it infrequently.

Third, these shirts are always quite durable and can actually go a little longer without a wash than your common cotton t-shirt. 

Last, these are a classic style staple that can be had for cheap and worn with a bit of versatility.  My go to spot is the Gap – as the shirts always have a classic cut, have a more timeless design (fits just as well in the 1970’s as now and can be worn anywhere in the world), and you can always pay $5 to have the shirt tailored and the fit improved later on.

14. GAP OXFORD SHORT SLEEVE SHIRT

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

A classic shirt made simply and durably make this another one of my go-to shirts when traveling.  The construction is surprisingly good meaning it will work on hikes and in active situations if you feel like pushing it.  Though this shirt is cotton, it breathes well enough to avoid funk for longer than your active t-shirt.  Beyond the adventures, it looks good enough for most any situation.

Where to buy: Starting at $35 at Gap online

MY FAVORITE DENIM SHIRTS FOR TRAVEL

Denim shirts are the unsung hero of travel shirts.  There is a reason that Levis Strauss made his “can’t bust ‘em” gear for goldmining rough necks out of cotton denim – because it works.  Denim shirts are a great all around travel shirt that sits side by side with the technical flannel.

travel design shirts

Granted, these denim shirts don’t insulate as well, suck when wet, and take forever to dry, but they look better than flannel and are better if you’re in a situation where you might get thrown around and need an extra layer of skin – like riding a motorbike anywhere in Southeast Asia. Plus, the denim shirt looks good.

A travel tip I got from my buddy “Dr. Strangelove” and his Spanish friends was to actually carry a denim button down on adventures to throw on for nice pics – instead of wearing that sweaty hiking shirt.  That’s actually excellent advice – but I’m a touch too apathetic to execute.

So, if you want a good all-around shirt, that looks good, and you won’t be getting too wet or sweaty, consider the denim shirt.

15. GAP DENIM SHIRTS

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

Classic cut and fit and constructed well enough to last through your travels.  I have a couple Gap denim shirts that I’ve worn for years and countless countries, and they keep getting better with age.  They’re durable and look good too.

Where to buy: From $40 at Gap

16. THE ORIGINAL: LEVI’S DENIM SHIRT

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

Levi Strauss did something right with his first couple of creations, cementing “denim” as a style staple.  If you’re going to pick up a denim shirt, you can’t go wrong with the original – Levi’s

Where to buy: Levis.com

HAWAIIAN SHIRTS

Though you wouldn’t expect to see it on this list, if you are venturing to hot or humid climates, Hawaiian shirts are an excellent option.  For one, they’re fun.  People may judge you, but those who don’t will automatically assume you’re fun.

Second, they’re traditional Hawaiian shirts for a reason.  They’re great in the heat and allow just enough breeze while blocking the sun.  They’re also perfect for when you’ve just gotten out of the water.  So, if you’re heading to the islands, consider having some fun and making a Hawaiian shirt your shirt of choice.

Where should you buy these?  Honestly…nowhere in the US.  Buy one on the road as a souvenir.  You can have a custom one made in Southeast Asia for cheap or buy the Balinese version (with real coconut buttons) when you’re in the area.

17. BONUS: THE ONLY JACKET YOU NEED FOR TRAVEL – THE BLUFFWORKS FIELD JACKET

So, you have your perfect travel shirt setup and now need something to layer over it to stay dry, warm, and stylish…what do you choose?

There are literally thousands of options to choose from, between waterproof puffy down jackets, to rainproof shells, but my travels have led me to…exactly one.

The Bluffworks Field Jacket .

This waterproof, windproof take on the classic M-65 military issue field jacket combines the best of style and function that travelers need.

Top of your torso by checking out this Bluffworks Field Jacket Review for full details and even better pictures…

Now that you have the top half of your wardrobe for travel worked out, what’s next?  Clearly you should figure out the best pair of bottoms for your trip by checking out the 15 best travel pants for men and the 5 best travel shorts for men followed closely by my 8 favorite travel shoes for men to create your perfect travel rig.

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Discover the 10 best men's travel shirts for every type of travel | Outdoor and Travel Gear for Men | Men's Fashion | Men's Travel Shirts for Adventure, Europe, and Casual Wear

Other Great Travel Gear  Content:

  • The 8 Best Travel Shoes for Men
  • 5 Great Men’s Travel Shorts
  • The Best Travel Pants for Men
  • My Carry on Packing List

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

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Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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The best travel shirts all share qualities that make them ideal for travel. They must wick away sweat, fight odors, resist wrinkles, and of course—look stylish. Here are our top picks for the best travel shirts for men and women.

UNTUCKit Flannel Sherwood Shirt

Untuckit Flannel Shirt

It can be tough to find casual men’s shirts that don’t look sloppy, but UNTUCKit nails it with their Sherwood flannel . Like all UNTUCKit shirts, the shirt is designed to be the perfect length when worn untucked. The soft brushed cotton fabric is ultra-cozy, making it comfortable on even the coldest days. Choose from a regular, slim, relaxed, or tall fit to get the perfect cut for your body type.

Ibex Journey Long Sleeve Crew

travel design shirts

Available in a men’s and women’s version, the Ibex Journey Long Sleeve Crew will be the most versatile shirt in your travel wardrobe. Made from merino wool and nylon fabric blend, this shirt is warm but never itchy. The merino wool makes the shirt odor-resistant, thermoregulating, and breathable.

Nathan Tempo Quarter Zip Long Sleeve Shirt

Nathan Sports Tempo Quarter Zip

The Nathan Tempo Quarter Zip is the perfect layer for active trips. Made from a soft knit fabric, the shirt is slim enough to layer under a jacket or sweatshirt, but still extremely warm. Thumb holes, reflective details, and flat lock seams make this quarter zip the shirt you’ll reach for every time for cold weather workouts.

Public Rec Go-To Polo

travel design shirts

Public Rec’s Go-To Polo is as comfortable as a T-shirt but looks classier—so you can wear this from a meeting to drinks afterwards. Made from a blend of pima cotton, TENCEL, and spandex, this ultra-soft shirt packs easily, feels great, looks awesome, and stands out as one of the best travel shirts.

Bluffworks Azores Blouse

travel design shirts

A women’s button-down that doesn’t gape at the buttons can be hard to find, let alone one that doesn’t wrinkle and is actually comfortable. Bluffworks’ Azores Blouse magically meets all those requirements, with plenty of pockets thrown in as an added bonus.

Tasc Carrollton Long Sleeve

travel design shirts

Made from a bamboo/cotton/spandex blend, Tasc’s Carrollton Long Sleeve shirt wicks away moisture, prevents odors, protects you from the sun, and is ultra-breathable—plus, it’s unbelievably soft. With a clean crewneck design, this shirt can be worn for both workouts and sightseeing without looking out of place.

Title Nine Grace Long Sleeve Top

travel design shirts

For an active trip, you’ll want to pack Title Nine’s Grace Long Sleeve Top . Made out of a trademarked Buttah LT fabric with StinkStopper treatment, the shirt feels smoother than butter and resists odors even if you subject it to multiple workouts without a wash. Details like a ruched back and space-dye design make this shirt wearable outside of the gym.

Unbound Merino Classic Button-Down

travel design shirts

Unbound Merino’s Classic Button-Down beats a traditional button-down on several fronts: It’s short enough that it can be worn tucked or untucked without looking odd, it’s made from a merino wool/organic cotton blend that’s odor-resistant and breathable, and it’s fast-drying so you can wash it and re-wear it on a long trip.

Coolibar Hightide Swim Shirt

travel design shirts

Protect yourself from the sun without overheating in long sleeves with Coolibar’s Hightide Swim Shirt . Made to be worn in the water, this shirt offers UPF 50+ protection, won’t float up while you swim, and won’t fade from chlorine or saltwater. This lightweight and silky-feeling shirt can be worn out of the water as well, when you need to save yourself from the sun on dry land.

Alternative Apparel Everyday V-Neck

travel design shirts

Alternative Apparel’s Everyday V-Neck is not only soft, but it’s also eco-friendly. The trademarked Lenzing fabric used to make this travel shirt is a sustainable cellulose fiber that comes from beechwood pulp—resulting in a material that’s twice as soft as regular cotton.

PFG Zero Rules Long Sleeve Shirt

travel design shirts

Ever wished you could wear your own personal air conditioner? Columbia’s PFG Zero Rules shirt comes close to achieving that dream. This long-sleeve travel shirt actually lowers your body temperature. The Omni-Wick technology wicks sweat and moisture away from your body and keeps you dry, while Omni-Shade blocks UV rays and heat.

Patagonia Short-Sleeved Capilene Cool Trail Shirt

travel design shirts

Patagonia’s Short-Sleeved Capilene Cool Trail Shirt is a shirt that all other T-shirts should be modeled after: a lightweight, breathable fabric that’s moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and soft. Plus, it’s made with anti-odor technology to keep the stink away. The design offers just the right amount of fashion while still keeping it classic.

Stantt Performance Dress Shirt

travel design shirts

Get the perfect fit (no tailor required) with Stantt’s Performance Dress Shirt . This innovative brand offers shirts in 99 different sizes. Simply take a 30-second quiz on Stantt’s website to find your ideal size. The Performance shirt is great for travel, as it’s wrinkle-resistant but still soft and stretchy, so you’ll look good and feel comfortable as you step off the plane.

More from SmarterTravel:

  • The Best Plus-Size Travel Clothes to Flatter Any Body
  • Ultra-Packable Travel Dresses for Summer
  • Allbirds vs. Rothy’s: Which Comfortable Shoe Brand Is Right for You?

Caroline Teel continues her search for the best travel shirts. Follow her on Instagram @TravelwithCaroline to see her fashionable adventures around the world.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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12 Best Travel Shirts for Men & Women

These 12 travel shirts aren’t going to stink up or wear down on you. They’ll last you through a hot day of taco hunting in Mexico City or a wet day trekking in the mountains of Nepal.

12 Best Travel Shirts for Men & Women

Shirts. Just how do you wade into the tsunami of options to pick out the absolute best travel shirts on the market?

Do you look for brand popularity? Couldn’t hurt. What about quality materials? Most definitely. How about intended uses? Certainly.

In fact, you should look at all these points and more. But don’t worry, I’ve done the nitty-gritty research for you. And I’ve emerged with the best travel shirts for both men and women.

All you have to do is sit back and absorb everything you need to know before purchasing travel clothes for your next adventure.

The backbone of any travel clothing ensemble is undoubtedly the T-shirt.

Low-key, low-maintenance and low-profile, the T-shirt is perfect for transiting busy airports, stepping out of the hotel to poke around a new city or just squeezing in a workout. The trick, however, is finding a T-shirt that can accomplish all of this, and not stink or look like a cow’s been chewing on it.

I’ve, therefore, picked out several of the best t-shirts for travel to cover everything from comfort to near indestructibility.

  • Best Travel T-Shirt Overall: Ably's Bradley and Daffodil
  • Most Versatile Travel Shirt: Bluffworks Threshold
  • Best Merino Travel T-Shirt: Ibex Merino Tencel Short Sleeve Tee
  • Best Travel T-Shirt for Hiking: Patagonia Capilene Cool Trail Shirt
  • Best Travel T-Shirt for Women: Eddie Bauer Favorite V-Neck
  • Best Long Sleeve Travel Shirt: Unbound Merino Wool Long Sleeve Crew Neck
  • Best Long-Sleeved Travel Shirt for Women: Icebreaker Zone Base Layer
  • Best Travel Button Down Shirt: Bluffworks Meridian 2.0
  • Best Travel Henley: Olivers Convoy Henley
  • Best Travel Polo Shirt: Icebreaker Merino Tech Lite II Short Sleeve Polo Shirt
  • Best Travel Hoodie: Unbound Merino Compact Travel Hoodie
  • Best Travel Tank Top: Icebreaker Merino 125 Cool-Lite Speed Tank Top

Ably Bradley shirt

Best Travel T-Shirt Overall

Ably's bradley and daffodil.

  • Filium coating
  • Cotton, but liquid-repellent
  • Odor-resistant
  • Quick-dry T-shirt

Bluffworks Threshold

Most Versatile Travel Shirt

Bluffworks threshold.

  • UPF 50 protection
  • Wrinkle-resistant
  • Gold and silver nanoparticle embedded material for odor-resistance
  • Machine-washable
  • Moisture-wicking

Ibex Merino Tencel Short Sleeve Tee

Best Merino Travel T-Shirt

Ibex merino tencel short sleeve tee.

  • Very durable merino blend with nylon
  • Temperature-regulating
  • Anti-microbial

Patagonia Capilene® Cool Trail Shirt

Best Travel T-Shirt for Hiking

Patagonia capilene cool trail shirt.

  • Made completely from recycled materials
  • Lots of odor control
  • More affordable than most
  • Great for everything from hiking to city travel

Eddie Bauer Favorite V-Neck

Best Travel T-Shirt for Women

Eddie bauer favorite v-neck.

  • Budget-friendly T-shirt
  • Minimal piling

Unbound Merino Wool Long Sleeve Crew Neck

Best Long Sleeve Travel Shirt

Unbound merino wool long sleeve crew neck.

  • Wrinkle-free
  • Odor resistant
  • Merino wool material
  • Moisture wicking

Icebreaker Merino Base Layer

Best Long-Sleeved Travel Shirt for Women

Icebreaker zone base layer.

  • Thumbholes for added comfort
  • Very durable

Bluffworks Meridian 2.0

Best Travel Button Down Shirt

Bluffworks meridian 2.0.

  • Classic or slim fit options
  • Machine washable

Olivers Convoy

Best Travel Henley

Olivers convoy henley.

  • Water-resistant

Icebreaker Merino Tech Lite II Short Sleeve Polo Shirt

Best Travel Polo Shirt

Icebreaker merino tech lite ii short sleeve polo shirt.

Unbound Merino Travel Hoodie

Best Travel Hoodie

Unbound merino compact travel hoodie.

Icebreaker Merino 125 Cool-Lite Speed Tank-Top

Best Travel Tank Top

Icebreaker merino 125 cool-lite speed tank top.

  • Merino-Tencel blend for excellent durability

Ably's Bradley and Daffodil : Best Travel T-Shirt Overall

The Filium shirt treatment employed by Ably easily makes their product earn the title of one of the best travel shirts on the market. Liquid-repellent and quick-drying, these cotton shirts are absolutely perfect for wearing on back-to-back-to-back days and still looking fresh.

And, as an added bonus: Ably produces this almost odor-free T-shirt in both men’s ( the Bradley ) and women’s ( the Daffodil ). Just be aware that this T-shirt for travel comes at a price. And it’s also susceptible to shrinkage (remember it’s still a cotton shirt!).

  • Pros & Cons
  • Technical Specs
  • Odor-resistant, so you can wear for long periods of time
  • Quick-drying
  • Susceptible to shrinkage if dried too long
  • Moderately expensive

Bluffworks Threshold : Most Versatile Travel Shirt

Instead of relying on a material’s natural anti-microbial properties, such as merino, or secondary treatments for odor control, Bluffworks adopts the unique approach of embedded gold and silver nanoparticles. Recall that Bluffworks is always pushing for the very best in durability and style, and that’s exactly what they deliver here.

These gold and silver particles keep bacteria and odors at bay with ease. And they keep the Bluffworks Threshold smelling great after traveling, sleeping and also even exercising. Add UPF 50 protection and wrinkle-resistance, and you have what can definitely be one of the best travel T-shirts for both men and women . It’s certainly one to add to your packing list.

Remember, however, that these features come with a price tag, making this shirt fairly expensive, compared to an ordinary T-shirt.

  • UPF 50+ sun protection
  • Expensive compared to a regular cotton tee

Ibex Merino Tencel Short Sleeve Tee : Best Merino Travel T-Shirt

If sweaters, hoodies and long sleeves can all benefit from merino, then why can’t T-shirts? At least that’s what Ibex thought when they produced the Merino Tencel Short Sleeve Tee . This company has stylish longevity at the forefront of their line as they continuously produce high-quality men’s travel shirts and apparel to last for the long run.

The ultra-fine combo of merino wool and nylon accomplishes this goal by creating excellent temperature regulation and anti-microbial properties with extreme durability. So this produces a luxuriously soft T-shirt that will smell great and also hold up in the face of every travel escapade ever. The greatest drawback for me, however, is justifying paying $85+ on a T-shirt. But for this powerhouse combination, it may well be worth it for you. There’s a women’s version as well.

  • Very expensive compared to other shirts on this list

Patagonia Capilene Cool Trail Shirt : Best Travel T-Shirt for Hiking

The best travel shirt in tee form doesn’t need to break the bank—and the Patagonia Capilene Cool Trail Shirt (also available for women ) is a perfect example of a functional yet affordable shirt. It’s made of a quick-to-wick 100% recycled polyester spun jersey blend that will keep you comfortable hiking a trail or around a new city.

It’s durable enough to be your sidekick for any and all of your travels, and it holds up to multiple washing cycles very well.

Fortunately, you won’t even need to wash it too often, as this shirt also has lots of odor control. You’ll have a solid unisex T-shirt for all your adventures—and since it’s made from recycled materials, you’ll be doing your part to help the environment!

  • Less expensive than others on this list
  • Comes in a wide array of colors
  • Made from 100% recycled polyester
  • The sizes seem to run smaller than normal—if you're a size small, you should probably get a medium

Eddie Bauer Favorite V-Neck : Best Travel T-Shirt for Women

For an inexpensive travel V-neck , Eddie Bauer puts forth their “favorite” T-shirt. Eddie Bauer has been equipping mountaineers and explorers for many years, and they bring that experience to all their clothes. Think: excellent quality along with a policy of standing behind everything they produce.

The cotton-polyester blend here follows this trend and makes for a comfortably soft fit, while the polishing helps prevent any annoying piling. This material, however, lacks any temperature regulation or anti-bacterial properties. So be prepared to wash it while traveling.

All this comes in at a very reasonable price that makes it an ideal addition to any informal travel wardrobe.

  • Minimal pilling
  • Not odor-resistant
  • No temperature regulation

Unbound Merino Wool Long Sleeve Crew Neck : Best Long Sleeve Travel Shirt

Every traveler worth their salt needs a reliable and stylish long-sleeve shirt. This should be your go-to option for a day in the city or for an evening out. It can also act as a layer when the temperatures begin to drop.

Unbound is one of the best travel clothing brands and they put their proven quality and merino prowess to work to provide that exact go-to shirt in their long sleeve merino crew . I rank it among the best men’s wrinkle-free travel shirts – an important feature when you’re living out of a backpack.

This shirt embodies each and every one of the benefits of coveted merino wool—cool and moisture-wicking in warm weather, and temperature-insulating on cooler days. The wool is, furthermore, naturally anti-bacterial. Therefore it’s anti-odor, so you can wear it time and time again without washing.

But the time for washing will eventually come and, when it does, you may find merino wool to be a little more particular than your average T-shirt. While it can be machine washed, line drying is highly recommended to prevent shrinkage and premature wear. Unbound provides several very handy, but potentially headache-inducing, guidelines to keep this wool shirt in peak health.

While all the benefits of Merino make this shirt functionally perfect for nearly every traveling situation, the uncomplicated but stylish design by Unbound is the icing on the cake. Available in solid navy blue or black, this shirt will look perfectly comfortable as a layer on a skiing trip or as a standalone in a cafe or restaurant.

I, therefore, wholeheartedly recommend the merino crew from Unbound as one of the best travel shirts for men. Certainly the finest option with long sleeves. Stay warm when needed, cool when needed and classy always.

  • Extra maintenance required
  • Only two colors

Icebreaker Zone Base Layer : Best Long-Sleeved Travel Shirt for Women

Finding a reliable long-sleeve that can function as a layer, a standalone top for around town and an exercise shirt is no small task. Especially when you need to find the perfect travel shirt to last for as long as possible.

The Icebreaker Zone Base Layer , however, perfectly fills this niche. And it can easily become your favorite traveling top for any situation.

This incredibly comfortable merino top will keep smelling great through every aspect of your trip, while the nylon blend seriously increases the durability for absolute longevity. And the added thumbholes and inherent temperature regulation further add to the comfort.

Plus, the straight-black coloring and sleek design offer near-limitless versatility. Wear it for a run, a day out, during airplane travel or as a warm base, and look good in every situation.

Recall, however, that merino abhors dryers, and so line drying is the way to go. Furthermore, several users report that the shirt may feel itchy upon purchase. But a single wash usually clears this up without any further issues.

Icebreaker has been cranking out high-quality merino products for several years now. And this long-sleeve top for women certainly lives up to their reputation. All the benefits of merino, the durability of nylon, a sleek design and, of course, thumbholes all come together to make this long-sleeve the best travel shirt for women travelers.

  • Extra merino care
  • Can be itchy upon purchase

Bluffworks Meridian 2.0 : Best Travel Button Down Shirt

Looking to make an impression while on the road? Perhaps you’re headed to a high-stakes business meeting. Or maybe it’s a romantic evening out in a new city. It certainly pays to look your best while traveling. And the Meridian Dress Shirt 2.0 easily accomplishes this goal to the point that others will be thinking: “I wonder if his tailor travels with him.”

Bluffworks has invested an enormous amount of time and energy into developing a unique clothing line that lasts. And also a line that looks great. This shirt promises just that, making it the best travel dress shirt on the market.

The Meridian Dress Shirt 2.0 is entirely wrinkle-free. For example, pull it from your suitcase after a flight, and you’ll be good to go.

Plus, there’s no sense in smelling like a rumpled and rugged traveler. The Meridian, again, hurdles this obstacle with an anti-microbial treatment that keeps you smelling fresh for days. And the polyester material is perfect for keeping you cool in all conditions. But remember that it doesn’t offer much insulation.

That all said, when it’s time for a wash, the Meridian is also refreshingly straightforward. This shirt is 100 percent machine washable, and you can simply tumble dry it or throw it up on a line.

However, for all its benefits, I’ve found that the Meridian does have one chink in its armor. The button spacing seems to be ever-so-slightly large. Meaning that, when sitting down, the gaps between the buttons can open up to reveal your undershirt (or lack thereof).

  • Wide button spacing

Olivers Convoy Henley : Best Travel Henley

The Henley adds a few degrees of style to the standard long-sleeve shirt with the addition of a three-button collarless placket. But now consider the travel Henley, Oliver’s 100 percent merino wool variant that is anti-odor, water-repellent, lightweight and always ready for the road.

Olivers provides a refreshingly large color selection, so you can pick what matches your vibe. And the straightforward solid color also creates a subtly pleasing style that is just as versatile as your travels. Airports, dinners, beach trips, workouts and everything in between—your Convoy Henley won’t even break a sweat, literally.

The 100 percent merino wool construction will remain cool in warm conditions, and while wicking moisture away from your body. But, when the thermometer takes a dive, the wool will also provide excellent insulation. Add its natural odor protection and Olivers’ added water-resistance, and you have a shirt that will keep up on all of your travel escapades.

The fit, however, can be a bit of an acquired taste. Olivers has opted for a very athletic fit. Meaning you casual wearers out there can expect a much tighter fit and significantly narrower sleeves. So, if this worries you, be sure to pick one size larger than usual.

What merino gives us travelers in temperature and odor protection, however, it takes back in maintenance. Be sure to read up on how to best protect your wool shirt, and do your best to make it last. Additionally, this shirt must always dry on the line or lying flat, which can be a bit of a drag to you quick-moving travelers.

Nevertheless, the mountain of benefits of merino wool far outweighs the additional maintenance. It’s, therefore, easily the best travel shirt for Henley lovers to add to their packing list.

  • Athletic cut, especially in narrow sleeves

Icebreaker Merino Tech Lite II Short Sleeve Polo Shirt : Best Travel Polo Shirt

Whether it’s salsa night in your new city or you’re simply a polo aficionado, the Icebreaker Merino Tech Lite II Short Sleeve Polo Shirt is the best travel shirt for those looking for a classy collar. Combining all the benefits of merino wool with a stretchy nylon results in a stylish platform that hides a plethora of travel-friendly perks.

So let’s start with the style. First, Icebreaker presents a simple solid color pattern in two darker colors that look good in almost every circumstance. So from your travel day at the airport to an evening out with new friends, this polo shirt easily projects tastefulness without straying into the realm of preppy.

But, also, within this fashionable men’s shirt hides merino wool superpowers. So enjoy the benefits of your shirt being naturally odor-resistant, temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking, all of which are pivotal for the best travel shirt. Remember, however, that merino requires extra Tender Loving Care (TLC), and it cannot be tossed in a dryer.

In fact, while we’re discussing the downsides, beware that many consumers have reported that the chest region of this polo often fits snugly, bordering on tight. Apart from the tight feeling, this also leads to a lot of chest for all to see if you leave it unbuttoned. Consider sizing up if you prefer a more casual fit.

For combining fancy and function, gentlemen, you can’t go wrong with this polo from Icebreaker. The design and style will keep you looking good for every aspect of your trip. And the merino material will constantly fend off smells and uncomfortable temperatures. So that’s definitely a win-win that makes this the best travel shirt for men who love a good polo.

  • Tight fit in chest and arms
  • Merino requires extra maintenance

Unbound Merino Compact Travel Hoodie : Best Travel Hoodie

Enter: all the benefits of merino, with tons of extra perks (like being wrinkle-resistant), spun into an incredibly soft and compact hoodie that will keep you comfortable wherever your travels take you. I believe Unbound Merino has definitely hit a bullseye with this product. And it easily earns the title of one of the best traveling shirts.

Unbound Merino has targeted extreme adventurers for years with their line of comfortable yet durable merino wool products. And this particular hoodie embodies everything I love about their line.

The 97 percent merino wool will keep nasty odors at bay, even after days and days of wear. And, meanwhile, it will regulate your temperature in both warm and cool situations. Unbound Merino threw in 3% elastane, which seriously ups the durability of this garment, and it makes it ready to tackle everything from the trails to the trams.

Plus, this shirt is light and breathable, and fast-drying to boot—it’s absolutely perfect for backpack-toting travelers who may need to wash their clothes by hand. As always, keep in mind that merino needs a little extra love where maintenance is concerned. This is, furthermore, a very thin and lightweight travel shirt that, while perfect for traveling, may be prone to snags or tears.

Travelers looking for the perfect blend of comfort and durability, therefore, can’t go wrong with the Unbound Merino Compact Travel Hoodie .

  • Light and breathable, and quick-drying
  • Very thin material, may be prone to snags

Icebreaker Merino 125 Cool-Lite Speed Tank Top : Best Travel Tank Top

I spent a great deal of time searching around for the very best shirts for travel in each category, and Icebreaker simply kept appearing. They once again make my list, therefore, with their Icebreaker Merino 125 Cool-Lite Speed Tank Top that, again, ushers in an unbeatable merino-Tencel blend.

The merino easily handles the odor and comfort aspect to this travel tank, while the Tencel, in turn, shores up the durability and moisture-wicking/quick-drying aspects. Together, they make this stylish tank top ready to take on the world, from exploring an outdoor market to enjoying a nice meal to completing the best hike of your life.

The relaxed draping fit will also be comfortable for any and all parts of your adventure. Wear this under a blazer or cardigan, and you’ve got something slightly more formal. But take note here that the draping fit may not be for everyone. Those of you who prefer a more sporty athletic fit may want to consider moving one size lower. But this is seriously small potatoes for such an awesome shirt.

For serious traveling in hot climates, this tank is certainly one of the best travel shirts you can invest in. Smell fresh wear after wear, look great wherever you go, enjoy merino’s endless comfort and get a traveling tank that will last your entire trip. In short, you can’t get any better than that.

  • Cannot tumble dry
  • Drapes for a loose and relaxed fit. Drop down a size for tight athletic fit.

What Makes the Best Travel Shirt?

You may look at your closet and see plenty of shirts that you could pack, but would they really stand up to the rigors of travel and earn the title of travel shirt? Probably not. Travel shirts are a special breed that are specifically designed for all the hardship, odors and harsh weather conditions on your radar.

These special design points generally focus on materials, additional treatments and simply high-quality craftsmanship that all work together to make the best travel shirt last as long as your travels do. And always look good while doing it.

So, now that you know exactly what to look for in this essential piece of travel gear, these three points are key.

Tough Threads

Arguably the most important aspect of the best travel shirts is its material. Cheap or weak material is much more likely to prematurely fray and fail mid-trip. So this leads to an unscheduled and unanticipated shopping stop to replenish your travel wardrobe.

I, therefore, cannot overstate the importance of finding travel clothes that will complement, and not hinder, your travels. My best advice is to look for merino wool or an alternative.

  • Merino: Merino wool is incredibly soft and feels great. And, more practically, it’s naturally anti-bacterial, which means that it’s anti-odor. It’s also temperature regulating. That said, it does need some more care, as it cannot be tossed in the dryer. And there are also certain chemical deodorants that some manufacturers say to steer clear of.
  • Synthetic Alternatives:  Polyester, a manufactured synthetic material, is breathable and moisture wicking, but lacks insulation. Tencel is also employed as a more durable and quick-drying option to merino wool, and is often blended with wool to get the best of both worlds. Lastly, lyocell is a natural man-made fiber that is often deployed for its excellent moisture management and anti-microbial properties.

As an extra layer of awesomeness, you will often see many manufacturers adding their own material treatments to further bolster a travel shirt’s robustness.

Treatment for Travel

The raw materials that make up the best travel shirts typically benefit from an additional chemical treatment in the form of water-repellency, anti-microbial shields or UPF protection . For most travelers, these can be absolute gold.

Fend off the rain or drink spill, both of which are unfortunate inevitabilities. Or keep those smelly bacteria at bay for more uses between washes. Some of the best outdoor clothing brands even have their own special formulations to boost their shirts to the heavyweight level, as Ably’s Filium accomplishes.

Filium launches what would simply be an average cotton shirt to the traveling level with a three-part combination knockout. It’s stain-resistant thanks to liquid repellency, odor-resistant thanks to anti-microbial properties, and quick drying. These three items are just what I love in a good travel shirt, and that’s why you’ll see Ably amongst my top T-shirt picks.

Therefore, run an eye over a potential shirt’s specifications, and pay special attention to any treatments that may be the thin line between a throwaway gym rag and the best shirt of your life.

Excellence for Every Escapade

The last item to consider when purchasing the best travel shirts, as with all travel gear, is quality. Poorly constructed shirts will simply not hold up to the rigors of travel.

Look for products from established and reputable manufacturers. Preferably those in the outdoor adventure or sport fields. They will know how to make shirts that last. This quality will, unfortunately, come with a price tag. But investing in a shirt that will last, look good for most occasions and resist stains and odors is well worth spending a little extra on in my opinion.

Off to trek the Salkantay trail or headed to the cold Bolivian salt flats? Whatever the case, these travel shirts will make sure of no wardrobe malfunctions. From long to short, hooded to collared, buttoned to casual, this list has you covered.

You have everything you need to know about purchasing your best shirt for travel ever at your fingertips. So go forth, get your shirt, and keep on exploring the world.

  • The Best Gifts For Travelers
  • What to Wear Hiking

Travel Shirts FAQs

What is the best shirt to wear when traveling.

The best shirt for traveling is one that is lightweight, breathable, and antimicrobial.

What clothes are good for traveling?

The best travel clothes are ones that work in a variety of situations, are lightweight, and are comfortable.

What is the best antimicrobial travel clothing?

Merino wool is the best antimicrobial material for travel clothing.

What is the best travel clothing brand?

Unbound Merino makes some of the best travel clothing on the planet.

What is travel t-shirt?

A travel t-shirt is one that is very lightweight and packable.

Jeremy Scott Foster

Jeremy Scott Foster

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  • Travel Clothes

The Best Travel T-Shirts: Pack These Tees for Your Next Trip

Published August 22, 2023

Written by:

Fred Perrotta

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...

Nick Hilton

Nick Hilden

Pacific Northwest native Nick Hilden is a travel and culture writer whose work has appeared in Afar, the Daily Beast,...

travel design shirts

Jessie Beck

Jessie is a writer, editor, and content marketer who covers travel gear and adventure travel. She’s called many places home...

Headshot of Jeremy Michael Cohen

Jeremy Michael Cohen

Jeremy Michael Cohen is a co-founder of Tortuga. He also works as a screenwriter and director. Aside from travel and...

Man wearing a white t-shirt and a travel backpack

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

A great t-shirt is at the core of every traveler’s wardrobe. They work well on their own or as a base layer. Tees are small, light, and can be rolled up and stuffed into your travel backpack . The right travel t-shirt can be hand-washed and hang-dried or worn multiple times.

In this article, you’ll learn what makes a great travel shirt and find a range of men’s and women ‘s tees based on your needs and budget.

Why You Should Trust Us

Our team at Tortuga works remotely and travels frequently. You’ll find us in t-shirts more frequently than in business casual clothes.

Here on the Tortuga blog, we write gear guides about what to bring for your trip. When you’re traveling, your clothes count as gear too. Sure, you want to look good. But you also need clothes that perform. That’s why we test everything and share our favorites with you.

This post includes contributions from Tortuga’s founders (and professional gear nerds), Fred Perrotta and Jeremy Michael Cohen , as well as travel writers Nick Hilden and Jessie Beck .

Carry-On-Sized Travel Backpacks

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

What is a “Travel” T-Shirt?

What makes a t-shirt a travel t-shirt? At first glance, you might not see any difference between a basic cotton shirt that costs $10, a fancier brand that costs $30, and a merino wool tee that costs $100.

The main selling point of a travel tee is that you can wear it multiple times between washes. Anti-odor fabric, hydrophobic design, armpit gussets, sweat-wicking technology, and other smart features can all contribute to a great travel t-shirt.

As Outlier co-founder and creative director, Abe Burmeister says:

“The most important things for travel clothing are cleanness, durability, and packability. The longer an item stays clean the more useful it is and the less you need to pack. When you trust your clothes can handle getting pushed to the limits, you can carry less and the less you carry the further you can go.”

You can wear travel t-shirts longer than other shirts, meaning you can pack fewer total shirts. The less you pack, the easier it is to travel in just a carry on .

If you have a shirt that you can wear multiple times without washing (and without smelling terrible), you have a great travel shirt. But re-wearability is just the most important feature of a travel t-shirt, but it’s not the only factor. There are a few other considerations that go into choosing the best shirt for your travels.

travel design shirts

What To Look for in a Travel T-Shirt

Cutting and sewing a t-shirt is pretty simple. The magic is in the material and the fit. When you’re shopping for a travel tee, focus on the fabric.

Pick the Right Fabric

Quick-drying, odor controlling, sweat-wicking, comfortable all day.

Merino wool is an outstanding material for travel as it’s comfortable, warm (yet breathable), and looks great. We like to call it “nature’s performance fabric.” Merino t-shirts offer the best overall performance on the market. However, they are also the most expensive and can have durability issues. So they aren’t the only option.

Cotton shirts feel pleasant on your skin but don’t travel well. Cotton wrinkles easily, absorbs sweat, and dries slowly. We like cotton at home but don’t recommend taking it on the road.

A blended fabric can offer high performance at a competitive price. Merino/nylon, cotton/polyester, or tri-blends can offer the positives of each material without all of the negatives.

For example, a strong fiber like nylon can offset the durability concerns of a more delicate fiber like merino wool.

Polyester dries fast and doesn’t wrinkle, which offsets some of the drawbacks of cotton. Cotton feels nicer than polyester, so the blend feels softer and more natural on your skin than 100% polyester.

When you’re traveling, you don’t want to spend your time at a laundromat. Instead, you can hand wash your clothes and hang them to dry in your hotel room or Airbnb. In this situation, you need a t-shirt that doesn’t take forever to dry.

My personal measuring stick for a quick-dry t-shirt is going from wet to damp in 30 minutes and hang drying in a few hours. At the minimum, your t-shirts should always dry completely when hung out overnight. You should be able to wash it and wear it the next day, no matter what.

Quick-dry shirts are also important if you’ll be sweating a lot, whether from hiking, exploring a city, or hauling your personal bag on and off airplanes and buses. Drying quickly will leave you feeling comfortable, not clammy.

Synthetic fabrics and blends are the fastest-drying materials. However, smells can linger on polyester and nylon if you’ve been sweating in your shirt.

Keep yourself smelling fresh, or at least not noticeably stinky, for yourself and for your fellow travelers. There’s nothing worse than being stuck on a flight next to the stinkiest passenger. 

Odor-controlling fabrics are increasingly common, particularly in shirts designed for travel. Don’t be surprised that we’re again suggesting merino wool, which is naturally stink-resistant.

Blended fabrics aren’t as inherently good at odor management. But some have anti-odor treatments, like anti-bacterial coatings or silver threads. For example, Western Rise uses Polygiene on their cotton/polyester blended X Cotton Tee . However, we haven’t found those odor-controlling treatments as effective at staying stink-free as merino.

I’ve already mentioned the importance of shirts that dry fast and tamp down odors. A shirt that wicks sweat will help with both of those issues.

Shirts achieve wicking with fabrics that lift sweat off your body to the exterior of the shirt, where it evaporates more quickly. 

While helpful for any traveler, sweat-wicking t-shirts are essential if you plan on being active during your trip. Whether hiking, cycling, hitting the gym, or simply walking around a hot city, you want to wear fabrics up to the job.

Synthetics are the best at wicking sweat but tend to hold on to smells and need to be washed more frequently. A blend provides a better mix of wicking and odor control.

Merino wool offers the best wicking in a natural fiber. Cotton is notoriously absorbent, making it a poor choice for wicking away sweat.

Alternatively, you can pack a separate gym shirt and accept that you’ll probably have to wash it after each workout.

travel design shirts

Because a t-shirt is a core building block of your travel wardrobe , you should feel great whenever you wear it.

You’re going to wear your travel t-shirt a lot. You might even buy a drawer full of the same shirt. You should love wearing it.

Whether you’re buying an expensive merino t-shirt or a dozen of your favorite cheap shirts, you’re making an investment. Buy the one travel t-shirt that you really love and build from there. If you’ve never tried merino before, start with one shirt. Wear it on the plane. Wear it again. And again. Notice that it’s not smelly yet. Then decide how to build out the rest of your wardrobe. Don’t go “all in” with an expensive fabric you’ve never worn before.

If you go for merino wool, buy a shirt of high-quality, fine gauge merino that’s soft, not scratchy.

Blends often have a softer, more natural hand feel than 100% polyester or nylon. You’ll get the upside of a synthetic fabric without feeling like you’re wearing plastic.

If your shirt feels great, you’ll wear it with confidence.

When ordering online, check the shirt’s size chart and compare it to the measurements of your current favorite tee. Everybody is unique, and you probably have your own preferences for how long or short or how slim or loose you like your tees to fit. Check the size chart, read reviews, and size up or down to get a fit you’re comfortable with.

The Best Travel T-Shirts for Men

Unbound Merino black wool crew neck t-shirt

Best Merino Wool Men’s Travel T-Shirt

Unbound Merino Wool Crew Neck T-Shirt ($88)

Unbound Merino’s wool is so good you’ll almost forget this is a “travel” t-shirt. Wool is naturally temperature regulating and odor repellant. This tee from Unbound Merino is soft, lightweight, and so comfortable that you can wear it for days (or weeks) without washing it.

Streamline your packing list with a merino wool t-shirt, the perfect foundational piece to build your travel wardrobe around.

Western Rise X Cotton Tee Shirt

Best Blended Men’s Travel T-Shirt

Western Rise X Cotton Tee ($54)

A great cotton/polyester blend offers most of the same performance as merino wool at a fraction of the price. And many people prefer the feel of a smooth cotton blend over rougher wool.

Western Rise’s X Cotton T-Shirt is a medium-weight tee with great stretch. The shirt feels like cotton, but thanks to its polyester, dries faster and doesn’t wrinkle as much as you’d expect. The odor-repellant Polygiene coating even means that you can re-wear it between washes.

Lululemon Drysense Training T-Shirt

Best Quick-Dry Men’s Travel T-Shirt

Lululemon Drysense Training Short Sleeve Shirt ($78)

This is our go-to shirt for hitting the gym while traveling. Lululemon’s Drysense tech fabric is quick-drying and sweat-wicking. It also has a little loop on the back of the collar for hanging it from a hook, which helps with drying and ensures that the collar won’t stretch out of shape.

This training tee is also eco-friendly. All of the polyester in the Drysense series is recycled.

Next Level Apparel men's t-shirt

Best Budget Men’s Travel T-Shirt

Next Level Apparel Men’s N6210 T-Shirt ($8+)

This basic t-shirt from Amazon is an “excellent for the price” workhorse. The 60% cotton and 40% polyester blend feels good and never needs to be ironed. You can buy a trip’s worth of shirts for the price of one of our other picks. Despite the price, these shirts can last for years without any issues aside from pilling. We recommended the Next Level if you liked the old American Apparel t-shirts from before they sold to Gildan.

The Best Travel T-Shirts for Women

Women's Woolly V Neck Tee in merino wool

Best Merino Wool Women ’s Travel T-Shirt

Woolly V Neck Tee ($50)

Woolly’s V Neck Tee is made of merino wool, so it’s sweat-wicking, odor-resistant, and ultralight. A bit of elastane gives it some extra stretch.

Seattle-based Woolly is one of our favorites for a well-made, affordable, merino t-shirt for women .

Uniqlo AIRism scoop neck short sleeve t-shirt

Best Budget Women ‘s Travel T-Shirt

Uniqlo AIRism Scoop Neck Short-Sleeve T-Shirt ($15)

All the shirts in Uniqlo’s AIRism collection pass our test for travel-ready t-shirts. Made from a quick-drying, odor-resistant, and anti-microbial fabric, these tees can withstand the rigor of a full day (or three) out and about. They’re also lightweight and “feel like air,” which is ideal in hot-weather climates or as a barely-there base layer in colder weather.

At $15 each, they also come at a hard-to-beat price point for budget-conscious travelers. Really, the only downsides of these shirts are that they don’t tend to last as long as some of the other t-shirts on this list.

Travel Experts Advice

Prioritize breathable fabrics for comfort.

When I’m exploring new places and immersing myself in various activities, I want my clothing to work with me, not against me. I’ve experienced the discomfort of wearing non-breathable fabrics in warm and humid climates, and it’s not something I want to repeat. Breathable fabrics with moisture-wicking blends allow air to circulate, keeping me cool and preventing that sticky, uncomfortable feeling. 

Hammer Tsui , Travel Blogger, A Fun Couple

Avoid Tight or Short Shirts

As a digital nomad and fashion designer traveling for over five years, the advice is to avoid anything too tight or too short. When traveling, a lot of time is spent sitting on planes, buses, or trains. When standing up, a tight or short shirt tends to ride up, which can be uncomfortable and sometimes even embarrassing.

Pazit Reuven , Fashion Designer and Blogger, Shawlovers

Select Versatile, Easy-Care Shirts

Versatility is the key to selecting the right travel shirt. Ideally, it complements various outfits you’ve packed, can be layered to adjust to different climate conditions, and is easy to care for. That way, it’s both fashionable and practical. 

So, when you’re selecting a shirt for traveling, opt for versatile pieces that tick off all the boxes for comfort, style, and function. You can be assured they will serve you well!

Jackie Gately , Travel Writer, Enjoy Travel Life

Opt for Wrinkle-Resistant Fabric

A wrinkle-resistant shirt minimizes the need for ironing and allows you to focus on enjoying your trip while maintaining a polished appearance, making it a practical and versatile choice for any type of travel experience.

Jim Campbell , Owner, Honeymoons

A high-quality travel t-shirt that you love should form the basis of your capsule wardrobe and go a long way in helping you look, feel, and smell your best on the road. Tees are light and easy to pack so you can fit a week’s worth in your underseat backpack . Just make sure to pick a tee in the right material with measurements similar to your current favorite shirt. Then enjoy your trip and forget about doing laundry.

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Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the company. For over a decade, he’s traveled the world from his home base in the Bay Area while working remotely. When he’s on the road, Fred enjoys both walking and eating as much as possible.

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Pacific Northwest native Nick Hilden is a travel and culture writer whose work has appeared in Afar, the Daily Beast, the Los Angeles Times, Men’s Health, Fodor’s, Popular Science, Scientific American, Thrillist, Vice, Runner’s World, and many, many more. He’s carried a Tortuga Outbreaker through year after year of traveling to places like Turkey, Tunisia, Thailand, Vietnam, Spain, Serbia, France, Italy, Greece, Mexico, all across the U.S., and beyond. You can follow his travels via Instagram @nick.hilden.

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Jessie is a writer, editor, and content marketer who covers travel gear and adventure travel. She’s called many places home and traveled to 45+ countries.

She now lives in San Francisco with her husband where she splits her time between traveling, adventuring outdoors, and cooking (okay, eating).

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The Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets for One-Bag Travelers

Years ago, I never put much thought into the clothes I packed for a trip. I would follow the standard formula of different outfits, centered around a unique cotton t-shirt each day. I would bring nearly as many pants or shorts because I knew they couldn’t last more than a few wears. Part of that was my naiveness but it was also largely due to the state of the industry. Performance travel clothing, like travel shirts for instance, are a relatively recent phenomenon (say the last 2-3 years), but this progression has changed the landscape of travel, forever.

Purposefully designed and constructed travel clothes marry the technical advantages gleaned from sports and fitness to well designed clothes that work well in a variety of situations on your trip. Besides looking great, travel shirts are much more versatile than normal clothing. They are often constructed of merino wool or a combination of polyester, nylon, and spandex. They usually are antimicrobial (which means they don’t stink), quick drying (meaning you can wash them in the evening and they’ll be ready by breakfast), anti-wrinkle (so go ahead and fold it up in your carry-on), and they are constructed with stretch (so you can articulate all you want).

Together, this means you can pack less, without sacrificing anything. But every brand or piece in this space isn’t exceptional. So in this ‘Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets’ article, I’ll be showcasing the pieces I think are, and because of that, they’ve made it into my personal packing list.

A quick note: these are all men’s shirts and tops, that I tested. Often, these brands make the same or a similar version for women, so make sure you visit their websites for more details.

What is a Travel Shirt?

You can choose to bring any shirt or top on your trip, but a travel shirt is an article of clothing that is purpose built for the voyage. Instead of merely looking good, they are usually made of technical fabrics (either man-made or natural), and have some extra features built in.

What Makes A Good Travel Shirt?

Versatility.

I want to pack as few shirts as possible when I travel. That means I value shirts that look great in the city but also can pass at dinner or a meeting. I care about how I look and I want to be presentable and dress appropriately. For me, having a shirt that does not look out of place is very important. For t-shirts, I want simple designs, void of any major branding or logos or offensive imagery. For dress shirts, I’d like colors, decorative buttons, and a nice tailored fit.

High Performance

Anyone can make a shirt, but it takes some real design chops and knowledge of material and body science, to make a good travel shirt. I look for shirts that exhibit some of the following features: moisture/sweat wicking, quick drying, anti-microbial, odor resistant, wide temperature support and stain-resistant.

Quality Materials and Construction

Merino wool is the name of the game here. While not all good travel tops are made of wool, this is nature’s miracle fabric that has replaced much of my travel wardrobe. We’ve extolled the virtues of wool before, but briefly: it keeps you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot and doesn’t stink.

Here’s my list of the best shirts I’ve used and tested for the past six to twelve months. I’ve worn them on weekend trips to LA for weddings, to Portland for the holidays, to DC during a heatwave, a couple of weeks in Japan and just plain EDC to work and about town.

Best Travel T-Shirt

The Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets for One-Bag Travelers

Western Rise Dryweight Merino Tee

I had been wearing Western Rise’s StrongCore tee for a few years but I yearned for something a little lighter and more versatile, especially for warmer summer months. The Dryweight tee is perfect and actually my go to year round, except for the coldest of climates.

What I Liked:

Instead of a 100% Merino t-shirt, the team at Telluride put in equal parts wool and Tencel. The latter is derived from Eucalyptus plants and excels at wicking and cooling, so perfect for high intensity, warm weather activity. Combining it with the natural Merino, gives the shirt super-fabric capabilities; performing better than pure Merino alone.

What I Didn’t Like:

This is my go to t-shirt so there isn’t much I don’t like. A small niggle is the $96 price tag. I received mine as a test sample and I still would buy it, especially after testing it, but I can see how it could be a hard pill to swallow for a t-shirt.

  • -Lightweight and perfect for most climates
  • -Regulates temperature and quick wicking
  • -May be expensive for the price sensitive

Softest Travel T-Shirt

The Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets for One-Bag Travelers

CIVIC The Antoni Tee

CIVIC was born from Taylor Stitch, one of my favorite San Francisco brands. While TS has figured out the secret sauce and makes everything from suits to leather boots, they needed a way to design and sell an essentials line. I almost said “basics” but that does a disservice to CIVIC because they produce a cohesive collection of clothing that could serve as staples in a very impressive wardrobe.

The handfeel of this shirt is amazing. It’s a heavier weight (falls sort of between the DryWeight and StrongCore shirts), yet drapes nicely and has a luxurious feeling weave. This shirt keeps you a little warmer than the DryWeight and its thickness lends itself well to wearing to a semi-nice restaurant if you needed.

CIVIC is not the only maker affected by this but I really don’t like how the edges of the shirt, particularly at the bottom, sort of curl or roll up. This could be my drying technique (low tumble, no heat), or the fact that I don’t iron my tees, but it sort of irritates me. I don’t really think people even notice it but I know it’s there. Again, really minor issue that is entirely cosmetic.

  • -Super soft and feels substantial to wear
  • -The cut and material means it pairs well with a nice pair of jeans for a clean, slightly dressed up look
  • -Edges (bottom, sleeves) have a tendency to slightly curl. You may want to consider ironing after you wash

Best Basic Travel T-Shirt

The Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets for One-Bag Travelers

Woolly Ultralight Short Sleeve V-Neck Tee

Woolly was founded by three friends in Seattle who wanted to bring Merino wool to the masses. Their garments are made from certified Australian Merino and have a satisfaction guarantee.

At $50, this is a fair price for a basic tee of this caliber. I am just using the word basic to simple in design and not lacking in features. At 150 GSM, Woolly calls this Ultralight but I’d call it “just right”. It’s actually has some heft and weight to it, which you can feel when you pick it up on the the hanger.

This shirt is a wardrobe staple. The neckline is not too aggressive and it’s reinforced which means it lays better on your body instead of crinkling or curling. The weight keeps you warm but is not too heavy so it should be comfortable in everything but the hottest days.

The fabric is not the softest. Certain Merino can have a slightly rough, almost cotton feel to it. The logo and wash directions are printed behind the neck where you’d normally find a tag but has a tendency is rub off after a few washes. While I appreciate minimal (and in this case, disappearing) branding, it also means I lose laundering directions with it.

  • -Great price for an intro to the world of Merino
  • -Versatile; pack one t-shirt for your whole trip
  • -Nice weight
  • -Hand feel is not that great; kind of rough. Feels fine when wearing though
  • -Laundry directions can rub or wash away after a few wears

Also consider:

There’s nothing more core to a travel wardrobe than the Merino tee and pretty much every company in this article will sell you their version. It’s really hard to narrow things down and at the end of the day, it just came down to personal preference, and not because of any major issues. If the Woolly doesn’t check your boxes, you can take a look at the Conyoy Tee from Olivers , and tees from Unbound Merino. Outlier’s Ultrafine line is also a staple amongst our contributors and but is in the top-tier pricetag at $110. And if you haven’t already tried shirts from heavyweights like Icebreaker and Smartwool , you really owe it to yourself to stock some of their wares in your closet. If not their basic tees, then their socks and boxers should make an appearance. They consistently make some of the best performing wool clothing.

Best Travel Henley

The Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets for One-Bag Travelers

Olivers Convoy Henley

David Wolfe launched Olivers in 2013 after his successful Kickstarter campaign for the All Over Short. I’ve had my eye on them since after wearing a different short of theirs, The Capital. At that time, I took it all over Washington D.C. exploring the sites and trying to stay one step ahead of the July heatwave. I declared it the best travel shorts at that time, and no others have usurped it since. I’ve kept in touch with the team and in six years, they’ve grown their collection into something mature and refined, but playful and fun at the same time. Designed and manufactured in Los Angeles, I feel like Olivers has one of the more complete one-stop shops for performance everyday clothing, which happens to be perfect for travel as well.

I have to admit, I wasn’t much of a henley guy until this past winter. Personally, I have issues regulating body temperature and comfort exactly and often get hot quickly if I go out in a sweater or jacket but I also have goosebumps when I am out in only a tee. What’s the solution? At least one that still looks great? The Convoy Henly is super soft, slim fitting, and has four buttons which helps you regulate your body temperature. Wear it unbuttoned for a more casual beach vibe or bundled up for a cleaner look.

The price might be a little high for some but I think it’s well worth it for an item that should last years.

  • -Excellent cut, fit, and comfortable to wear
  • -Nice variety of colors
  • -Versatile; works in casual and nicer scenarios
  • -Easy to regulate temperature with buttons; can be paired with a warm vest for core warm while keeping arms cool

There are a number of brands that make excellent henleys. Another to consider is the Zaha from Civic . Imagine the soft plush Civic tee I described above but in a long sleeve form. It uses their Mercerized wool which is a treatment to remove the itch from traditional Merino. It’s one of the most comfortable pieces I own and I just love the drape and how it fits. At $125, it should definitely be on your radar.

Best Long Sleeve Travel Crew

The Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets for One-Bag Travelers

Unbound Merino Long Sleeve Crew

Similar to Woolly, Unbound Merino was also founded by three friends. They followed a rock band around the country, and found a passion for living abroad. Constant travel and minimal packing is the perfect use case for Merino and Unbound is perfectly suited to create solutions based on their experience in this arena. If you are looking for a long sleeve crew that is a little more basic and less frills than a henley, this might be the perfect top.

At 190 g/m2, Unbound considers their long sleeve crew ultralight. This is certainly the case and unless you’re in temperate conditions, I’d use this only as a baselayer, with at least something light on top or a vest. The material is ultra soft, maybe among the softest and most comfortable of all base tops I’ve worn but it is certainly light. Holding it up to the light, you can see the silhouette of your hand through one layer.

The construction is no-frills but well done with reinforced stitching at critical areas. It naturally is moisture-wicking, antibacterial and anti-wrinkle. I found the fit to be slim but not limiting and the simple colors, black and navy, make it a no-brainer to pack on a trip.

I found the sleeves to be a bit too narrow but of course, your mileage (and build) my vary. I don’t mind form fitting clothes but, in my case, it took about twenty minutes to get used to.

  • -Each product comes with a little booklet with care instruction
  • -Super soft and luxurious feeling, 100% Merino
  • -Flattering cut
  • -Depending on your build, arms may be a bit slim

Wool & Prince also offers a long sleeve crew neck and it works a treat. This is truly a no frills shirt and won’t win any fashion awards but as a baselayer or paired with a vest or sweater, it does quite well. It’s 160gsm Merino with about a quarter nylon blend for an excellent drape and handfeel. I love the deep blue in my navy sample and it’s a staple for me during fall and winter months.

Also Duckworth’s Comet Crew is super solid.

Best Travel Polo

The Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets for One-Bag Travelers

Wool&Prince Polo

Wool&Prince are no strangers to wool but whereas some companies above are focused on the basics market, Wool&Prince have their sites more upmarket, targeting someone who is regularly dressing up, for work or play, but wants the benefits of technical fabrics. While they are mostly known for their wool dress shirts, the item that find myself always grabbing from my closet, is their polo.

I received a polo in Heather Gray for testing and it’s my go to piece. I know that for some men, polos are relegated to the golf course or seem like a lazy way to look presentable when you were in grade school, but hear me out: I think that anytime you have a collared shirt, you are already showing some amount of effort. And while short sleeves often designate a casual look, having that collar paired with buttons and a clean, modern cut, makes for a convincing outfit for a nice lunch or even an early dinner.

The heather gray color of my sample is so non-polarizing which makes it versatile. I loved the 205 g/m2 weight which is a tad heavier than some baselayers listed above, but gives enough coverage and warmth without being sweater-like. They also designed the collars to stay upright more for a more modern look. The best thing I like about the Wool&Prince polo is they managed to get it as comfortable as a t-shirt but while ticking off some of the formal boxes.

After a couple of wears, the button holes in my shirt are showing wear. This is true of most polos and in this case they do look reinforced. I think that it may be a con of Merino to not be rigid enough to handle repeated stretching that comes with operating buttons.

  • -Great construction and comfortable
  • -Easy solution to look dressed up without much effort
  • -Just the right weight
  • -Priced under $100
  • -Button holes show wear easily. Be careful when operating

If you are into polos, and want a more slim, perhaps more minimal look, check out what Woolly has to offer . I often wear one in black and I just love it. It’s closer to a t-shirt – a bit slimmer, feels a bit lighter weight, and more form fitting. It’s extremely comfortable and works best untucked and unbuttoned (at least the top one) due to how the collar rests. At just over $50, it’s a downright bargain.

Best Formal Button-Up Travel Shirt

The Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets for One-Bag Travelers

Mizzen+Main Leeward

Mizzen+Main is a brand after my own heart. They were started when the founder saw a D.C. staffer run up the hill is a sweaty, wrinkled shirt. So he sought out to combine the advances in athletic wear with custom dress shirts. While we often think of Merino as nature’s super-fabric, there have been many advances in man-made technical fabrics and the Leeward is an example that leverages this.

I received a Hampton (in the Leeward collection) in Blue Check and it is a great all around shirt, but I primarily focused on using it during the summer. It’s constructed of a mix of 85% polyester and 15% spandex. You may have seen similar compositions before, especially in travel pants. The advantages are clear – four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, machine washable, and anti-wrinkle.

Whenever I find a company that is making dress clothes with technical fabrics, I am usually weary that they are an athletic company trying to break into fashion. It’s never a good look. What I like about Mizzen+Main is they are a dress-shirt maker first, and they were able to apply that knowledge and construction using non-traditional fabrics. They added features that you’d find in traditional dress shirt makers like darts for a slimmer fit, contrast stitching button holes, optional magnetic collar stays, and a spread collar.

At first, polyester dress shirts always take some time getting used to, especially if you’ve gone all your life wearing traditional materials. I also wish they included metal collar stays.

  • -Beautifully tailored modern dress shirts with great features
  • -Three different fits available means there’s probably something that works for everyone
  • -Plenty of pattern choices
  • -Fairly priced for a shirt that is no hassle and so versatile (does great in wet weather, stretch for comfort, washes easily and doesn’t wrinkle)
  • -Plastic collar stays
  • -Polyester may not be for everyone

I only brought one dress shirt with me on my honeymoon and it was from Wool&Prince . Their button-downs are 100% Merino but look and feel just a tailored shirt. If you have any experience with Merino, you know there are limitations of how you can cut and sew it but somehow Wool&Prince cracked the code. Their shirts are super comfortable, are offered in over a dozen styles and prints, and three fits. I went with the regular but I think I’ll try slim next time for a more modern look.

Ministry of Supply also has a number of shirts on offer, but I am really drawn towards their Apollo 3 Dress Shirt . It was one of their first offerings and it takes its name from the fact that it’s made of the same material that NASA invented to keep astronaut body temperatures regulated.  It’s reportedly 19x more breathable than comparable cotton shirts. And last, but not least, how can we forget about Bluffworks? I  have their first Meridian Dress shirt in blue check and I’ve worn it to many a meeting and, of course, on trips. The 2% spandex added helps with stretch and it maintains all the key features you want: quick drying, doesn’t wrinkle, cool in all temps, and antimicrobial.

Best Casual Button-Up Travel Shirt

The Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets for One-Bag Travelers

CIVIC The Jack

Purposely or not, performance clothing companies tend to slot themselves into certain categories. You have Mizzen+Main which prefers to use polyester and spandex paired with traditional shirtmaking to up the performance while giving wearers the same good looks they expect. And you have some other companies that focus on the basics of a wardrobe (simple tees, henleys, boxers, maybe a polo). CIVIC is one of my favorite companies because they lie somewhere in between. Merino wool is their weapon of choice but they have some great design chops as well; not surprising given their heritage from Taylor Stitch.

The Jack has become one of my favorite pieces to pack on a trip. In fact, I did just that when I visited some friends in Portland a few weeks ago. It uses their blend of 70% Merino and 30% Sorona, a plant-based fiber which gives increased strength and movement. The result is a perfectly balanced 220 gsm that provides both warmth and structure. It’s difficult to make certain types of clothing out of 100% wool. It’s a naturally soft material so you cannot get that  crisp look that people expect from certain items (like dress shirts). The buttons are high quality and the construction is great.

First and foremost, I love the fit of The Jack. I think the chest, shoulders, and waist are perfect. It’s a slim fit which is usually flattering, but not too tight as to restrict movement. It looks great tucked or not, so it’s perfect for many different occasions. I paired it with a jacket for a meal at an upscale sushi restaurant and it definitely filled the role.

On me, the arms are a little long and this picture exaggerates it a bit. In practice, I don’t feel the bagginess at all but as always, your mileage may vary.

  • -Perfect construction; great trim fit.
  • -Blend of Merino and Sorona is just right to give softness while maintaining some crispiness  you expect from a dress shirt
  • -Great everyday shirt
  • -Arms may be a bit baggy

If you are traveling for business, especially in less secure areas of the world, check out the Clothing Arts Pick-Pocket Proof Business Travel Shirt . While being a mouthful to say, it’s a shirt built from the ground up with travel and security in mind. It features UPF 30+ sun protection, quick dry for easy travel laundry, and a combination of hidden and secure pockets so you can rest assured you’ll be able to access your passport or emergency cash if you do get targeted. The look is a little less fashion forward compared to The Jack, but the cut and materials are more suited for warmer weather (even tropical) while looking perfectly passable for business casual.

Best Travel Blazer or Travel Jacket

The Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets for One-Bag Travelers

Ministry of Supply Kinetic Blazer

Ministry of Supply is a company that is rooted in Boston and got its start on Kickstarter. After numerous successful campaigns, they now operate multiple stores, as well as a modern online presence. Aman and his team really fancy themselves clothing scientists, studying pressure, doing temperature scans, poring over stretch details and surveying users. I view them as the Tesla of the clothing world, up there with brands like Nike and Lululemon which operate performance labs, except they may be the only ones doing it for the performance fashion sector and not sports.

My Kinetic Blazer is a beautiful navy and the texture reminds me a bit of an old jacket a professor or your father might have worn. It’s made with a Japanese warp-knit Kinetic fabric which gives it four-way stretch, great wrinkle resistance, and quick-dry features. What I like most though is it looks and performs just like a regular blazer and fits like a glove.

It’s not the cheapest jacket, weighing in at just over $300 but I think it’s worth it. It is a more considered blazer than one you’d find off the rack with performance features built in.

  • -Japanese Kinetic fabric has four way stretch, dries quickly, and is less likely to be wrinkled when you arrive to your destination
  • -Comfortable and fits well; pairs with any dress shirt and slacks
  • -Fabric has a great feel and looks different depending on lighting

When I think of performance travel blazer, the first thing that comes to mind is the Bluffworks Gramercy Blazer . I met Stefan at OR a few years after I had already been testing his clothing; first with his pants then later shirt and blazer. It has been amazing to see a small company tackle one item at a time and work with factories and fabric companies to get it just right. The Gramercy Blazer uses 100% polyester that is engineered for stretch, breatheability, machine-washable, and most importantly, looks great. I’ve seen plenty of polyester clothing but when you feel the Gramercy Blazer, you’d swear it’s a natural material. Besides the performance features, Bluffworks knocks it out of the park by adding in 10 pockets (many hidden) to make the jacket a perfect travel companion.

Best Travel Jacket For Wet Weather

The Best Men’s Travel Shirts and Jackets for One-Bag Travelers

Clothing Arts Cubed Travel Jacket

I’ve gotten to know Adam from Clothing Arts and through our months of communicating, you can tell that he is one passionate traveler and maker. Like others on this list, he found a need and a market that was not being addressed and he started Clothing Arts to tackle the problem of how to travel safely, anywhere in the world. Their clothing has stopped over 70 pickpocket attempts worldwide, with more stories coming in all the time.

The first Clothing Arts sample I was sent was the big daddy, their flagship, the Cubed Travel Jacket. This thing is a beast, featuring an eVent DVStorm Membrane, innovative pocketing, and 4 season versatility. The jacket is waterproof and windproof while maintaining breathability. It weighs 1lb 11 oz so it’s not exactly lightweight but you get loads of performance in return. Luckily, it folds down quite nicely and can easily be stowed in a packing cube.

Depending on your torso height, when it’s fully zipped, the jacket can encroach on the neck and lower half of your face. This is not unlike other shells but I found the upper part of the jacket/hood to be somewhat stiff and I didn’t like having it fully zipped at all times. This is rarely an issue since the hood is so easily removed and you’ll most often be wearing it unattached.

  • -Top in class rain and wind protection from eVent DVStorm fabric
  • -Quick-attach hood system
  • -Multiple security pockets
  • -Cinch pulls, waterproof zippers, velcro closures – all make for great protection against the elements
  • -Neck and hood area stiff and can get uncomfortable if fully zipped

On the surface, this is a purely technical jacket. It uses eVent which is a high performing wind and water resistant fabric. If you’re just looking for a shell, you have a lot of choices including offerings from Patagonia and Arcteryx, they’re classic and awesome. The difference is Clothing Arts is a travel and security focused company so they put in a bunch of security and hidden pockets. If that’s not vital to you then any good technical shell would work great for travel.

I tested over a dozen tees, henleys, button-downs, and jackets to find what would work best for traveling. We are big proponents of packing not just minimally but intelligently and the only way to do that effectively is to ask more from our clothing. Companies like Western Rise , Civic, Wool&Prince , etc are taking modern fabrics and pairing it with research and adding in clever features, to make clothing that looks great and performs even better. I don’t expect you to mimic my choices exactly here. Instead, I hope that by giving you information about the brands and products, you can start thinking about what features you need and want in travel shirts and this article can serve as a guide to help you when you’re packing for your next trip.

Liked this article? Why not check out these too:

The Best Travel Pants for One-Bag Travelers

The Best Backpacks for One Bag Travel

The Best Travel Shoes for Every Type of Traveler

IN THIS ARTICLE

David Vo

SENIOR EDITOR

David gets right into the details, in a way that few can. He prefers carry gear that lets him get active. He rides bikes, eats good food, and has a digital footprint approaching a yeti.

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Travel t-shirt designs

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Beach-themed T-shirt design for beach town'

Good t-shirt designs are those that people want to wear. Make sure your t-shirt doesn’t get stuffed in the back of the closet with a custom travel t-shirt designed just for you by a professional designer. Need ideas? We’ve collected some amazing examples of travel t-shirts created by our global community of designers. Get inspired and start planning your custom travel t-shirt design today.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Fred's Marina'

Fred's Marina

Simple tshirt for fred's marina summer theme.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'pelican grove'

pelican grove

Travel t-shirt with the title 'oregon'

Mountain scene

This is actually basic geometrical mountain, but I did an experiment about the reflection. You know it's kinda weird but I took it as u can see this is beautiful on tshirt. My favorite colors combination is the last one(bottom right).

Travel t-shirt with the title 'T-Shirt Using Authentic Abstract Art Painted by Elephants!'

T-Shirt Using Authentic Abstract Art Painted by Elephants!

Editing Elepant's Painting

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Design T-shirt for Scuba Divers in CUBA'

Design T-shirt for Scuba Divers in CUBA

This is my winning design for the contest that represent scuba and Cuba in tribal pattern.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Tiger Lily'

Huntington Beach

huntigton beach

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Altitude Outfitters T-Shirt'

Altitude Outfitters T-Shirt

Tallgrass outdoor

Travel t-shirt with the title 'tshirt illustration'

tshirt illustration

tshirt print

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Wailua river and uluwehi falls'

Wailua river and uluwehi falls

Tshirt for Hawaiian local merch

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Australian T-shirt'

Australian T-shirt

This is my winning design for the contest.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'CAMPFIRE ROCK'

CAMPFIRE ROCK

Travel t-shirt with the title 'just go'

illustration in the van

Travel t-shirt with the title 'just go'

happy traveler

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Influence'

Apparel for Typetee

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Mount Brandon silhouette'

Mount Brandon silhouette

Drawing a mount silhouette

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Dirtiness is next to Earthliness'

Dirtiness is next to Earthliness

Hikers and Backpackers T-Shirt Design, Design made for outdoors and nature lovers.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Jet ski bear on summer'

Jet ski bear on summer

Bear is having fun

Travel t-shirt with the title 'midnight deer'

midnight deer

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Sleepy Pelican Travel Group - Vibrant Colorful Artwork'

Sleepy Pelican Travel Group - Vibrant Colorful Artwork

This stunning artwork features the Sleepy Pelican travel group with a vibrant color palette of pink, light neon blue, and other shades. The artwork showcases a plane flying over iconic world buildings, adding a touch of adventure to the design. The sleepy pelican in the artwork adds a whimsical element to the piece. This artwork is perfect for anyone who loves to travel or dreams of exploring the world. Its unique blend of colors and subject matter make it a truly eye-catching piece.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Dingle Town'

Dingle Town

A little map of Dingle town

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Bison'

American buffalo

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Create the next clothing or merchandise design for SeaScape Sailing'

Create the next clothing or merchandise design for SeaScape Sailing

This was a winning design for promoting travel agency in an exclusive yacht.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Aloha Apparel'

Aloha Apparel

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Find 6 '

Matador Network

Modern adventure T-shirt illustration for matador network.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Acupuncture'

Acupuncture

Text-based design. First time when I try " line-art".

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Camp Imber'

Zion National Park

Travel t-shirt with the title 'A true taste of Tennessee'

A true taste of Tennessee

A true taste of Tennessee T-shirt design.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Navigator of the Seas Group Cruise'

Navigator of the Seas Group Cruise

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Aloha Illustration Badges'

Aloha Illustration Badges

Travel t-shirt with the title 'RockaDock Event Shirt '

RockaDock Event Shirt

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Popular Outdoor Website Needs Stylish T-Shirt Design!'

Popular Outdoor Website Needs Stylish T-Shirt Design!

Very professional feedbacks from contest holder ! Very nice contest, it was pleasure for me to take a part.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Aloha Illustration '

Aloha Illustration

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Vintage Travel Ad T-shirt Design'

Vintage Travel Ad T-shirt Design

Vintage-inspired travel ad t-shirt design.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Sleepy Pelican'

Sleepy Pelican

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Hand Drawn Outdoor Backpack Illustration.'

Hand Drawn Outdoor Backpack Illustration.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'T-shirt Design for Kiwi Experience New Zealand'

T-shirt Design for Kiwi Experience New Zealand

Hand-drawn illustration. Design elements inspired by New Zealand's iconic kiwiana.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'The Ranch At Laguna Beach'

The Ranch At Laguna Beach

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Yachting Clothing Brand T-shirt'

Yachting Clothing Brand T-shirt

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Wilton Manors'

Wilton Manors

abstract Cityscape design

Travel t-shirt with the title 'vacaynation'

vacaynation

ilustration beach inside plane

Travel t-shirt with the title 'WE CAME BY THE SEA'

WE CAME BY THE SEA

Travel t-shirt with the title 'West Wine Tours'

West Wine Tours

West Wine Tours, Sonoma/Ca

Travel t-shirt with the title ' Design An Eye-catching Youth Conference T-shirt!'

Design An Eye-catching Youth Conference T-shirt!

Conference T-shirt. Very nice contest and professional feedbacks !

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Zion National Park'

Typography with illustration tshirt design

Lake life theme

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Creative Map art for Adventure Travel company'

Creative Map art for Adventure Travel company

Moose Travel Network Tee design shows the Destinations and Popular activities. Doodle style Map art in a fun touch.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Airport branded T-shirt design'

Airport branded T-shirt design

Vintage aviation style: custom illustration design for a branded T-shirt for FERGUSON AIRPORT.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Banyan  #1 team celebration shirt'

Banyan #1 team celebration shirt

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Vintage Travellers'

Vintage Travellers

Travel t-shirt with the title 'China Tour Logo'

China Tour Logo

custom T-shirt illustration

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Yeti Cab .co tee'

Yeti Cab .co tee

A T shirt Illustration for a Pedicab Company

Travel t-shirt with the title 'dirty 330 x bear view'

dirty 330 x bear view

ilustration bear ride bike

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Do what you Love '

Do what you Love

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Top Design'

Cute artwork I did for the "Great South Bae" contest!

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Camper '

out living it :)

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Forsailors Merch Illustration'

Forsailors Merch Illustration

Illustration for one of my favourite clients.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'I'm outta here!'

I'm outta here!

Client wanted a cruise ship crew wearing a snorkel and a duck floater.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Peace Love and the Road'

Peace Love and the Road

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Three Coin'

The Ranch LB

The Ranch at Laguna Beach

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Talen health Club'

Talen health Club

Talen health Club. Premium cannabis dispensary.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'T-shirt design'

T-shirt design

The toucan turned out so cute!

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Vintage Hot Air Balloon Shirt Design'

Vintage Hot Air Balloon Shirt Design

Vintage hot air balloon festival t-shirt design.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Never  Give up '

Never Give up

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Keep Moving Forward'

Keep Moving Forward

If you can you should. Keep Moving Forward. Follow your bliss :)

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Scuba Cuba'

Design for ScubaCuba.com, a fashionable, eye catching designs that highlight not only Cuba's unique culture but also tie into the pristine underwater nature aspect of this trip, specifically in Maria la Gorda (known for sea turtle nesting, large schools of tropical fish, caverns and coral formations).

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Ybor T-shirt design'

Ybor T-shirt design

Simple illustration with custom typography for a t-shirt in the spirit of Ybor's historical location.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Everyday I'm Swizzling'

Everyday I'm Swizzling

t-shirt design for restless native bermuda

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Retreat Ranch Staff Shirt Design for Glamping Ranch'

Retreat Ranch Staff Shirt Design for Glamping Ranch

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Blind concept '

Blind concept

Walking on the rope to Zion. Available to purchase.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'A church and a fountain.'

A church and a fountain.

Illustration with the two historical places of the village, the church and the old fountain, of Oaqortoq in Greenland. The inspiration comes from artistic drawings and handwriting done by hand, as in a traveler's notebook. vector, to be used in the client's market. Qaqortoq' means 'white' in Greenlandic. The Church of Our Savior (Danish: Vor Freslers Kirke) is a wooden Lutheran church in Qaqortoq, the largest town in southern Greenland. Mindebrønden (Memorial Fountain) was the only fountain on the whole island. The suggested palette is inspired by the flag and colors of the local landscape.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Illustration for a Female T-shirt'

Illustration for a Female T-shirt

A poetic interpretation of Nashville skyline.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'New Zealand Kiwiana'

New Zealand Kiwiana

T-shirt design for KIWI Experience. Design elements inspired by New Zealand's iconic kiwiana

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Alaskan Air Travel T-shirt'

Alaskan Air Travel T-shirt

As you can see the client needed a number of elements for his design which were somewhat hard to put together, but it came out really good at the end!

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Camping Sambica T-shirt Design'

Camping Sambica T-shirt Design

T-shirt design for Camping Sambica.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Retro Sea Goddess design v.2 for Coccoloba '

Retro Sea Goddess design v.2 for Coccoloba

Client wants a retro hippie design for company t-shirts and merchandises

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Simple Adventure T-Shirt'

Simple Adventure T-Shirt

Simple Adventure T Shirt

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Beach T-shirt'

Beach T-shirt

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Sisimiut'

Overview of the city of Sisimiut, Greenland. Artistic drawing made with reference to interpreting the bright colors of the houses in the landscape.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'TRAVELING T SHIRT'

TRAVELING T SHIRT

Nature traveling tee

Travel t-shirt with the title 'South Tampa T-shirt design'

South Tampa T-shirt design

Illustration for T-shirt promoting South Tampa

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Pixel World Tour'

Pixel World Tour

The client wants a retro 8/16-bit pixel design for them. They wanted me to draw cigar, alcohols, playing cards, dice and chips.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'nature-based T-shirt design'

nature-based T-shirt design

Travel t-shirt with the title 'RV AND CAMPING TSHIRT'

RV AND CAMPING TSHIRT

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Coeur d'Alene T-Shirt Merchandise'

Coeur d'Alene T-Shirt Merchandise

Coeur d'Alene T-Shirt Merchandise in hand drawn sketchy style

Travel t-shirt with the title 'T-shirt unicorn design'

T-shirt unicorn design

T-shirt design with the theme of a beach unicorn in different positions.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'among the mountains'

among the mountains

nabff national park

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Coeur d'Alene T-Shirt Fall Merchandise'

Coeur d'Alene T-Shirt Fall Merchandise

Coeur d'Alene T-Shirt Fall Merchandise in vintage retro style, with grunge/ distressed effect.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'Adventure travelling t-shirt design'

Adventure travelling t-shirt design

this design didnt made up for contest, so its up for SALE ! editable text. or reach me to modify the design.

pieman by E-T

Travel t-shirts not a good fit? Try something else:

How to create your travel t-shirt design.

If you want an amazing travel t-shirt that stands out from the competition, work with a professional designer. Find and hire a designer to make your vision come to life, or host a design contest and get ideas from designers around the world.

Start a contest

Designers from around the world pitch you ideas. You provide feedback, hone your favorites and choose a winner.

Start a project

Find the perfect designer to match your style and budget. Then collaborate one-on-one to create a custom t-shirt.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'just go'

4.8 average from 960 t-shirt design customer reviews

What makes a good travel t-shirt design?

People wear t-shirts to do everything: Walk the dog. Shop for groceries. Rock out at concerts. Can you say exposure? Make sure your travel t-shirt tells the right story (and gets worn) by understanding the fundamentals of t-shirt design.

Travel t-shirt with the title 'WHITE PINE LODGE'

7 steps of t-shirt design Whether you’re starting an apparel business or creating a tee for the family reunion, you’ll want to read our ultimate guide to t-shirt design... Keep reading
T-shirt printing Even a great t-shirt design can be ruined if you choose the wrong type of printing. Learn your t-shirt printing options... Keep reading
Company t-shirts T-shirts are the ultimate in company swag (and cheap advertising). Learn how to get something that reps your brand and looks good... Keep reading
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Best Wrinkle-Free Travel Dress Shirts: Bluffworks Zenith & Lenox

Written by Dan

Updated on March 13th, 2024

travel design shirts

Are these the best no-iron wrinkle-free men’s dress shirts for travel? I'm reviewing the Bluffworks Zenith affordable and casual button-down travel shirts.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Table of contents

  • A brief rundown: Bluffworks Zenith button-down dress shirts
  • Summary: The new Lenox wrinkle-free dress shirts
  • Technical features of the Zenith Dress Shirts
  • Versatile use cases for the Zenith and Lenox dress shirts
  • Are the Bluffworks wrinkle-free dress shirts worth the money?
  • Conclusion: Bluffworks dress shirts for travel

I never knew I needed button-down dress shirts specifically made for travel, but now I don’t know what I’d do without them. Bluffworks’ answer to a wrinkle-free travel dress shirt for men is the Zenith Travel Dress Shirt, an affordable and versatile travel staple.

When I’m traveling out of town for a wedding weekend, business conference or a family event, I need a shirt that won’t require an iron to get the wrinkles out. The Bluffworks Zenith dress shirts and Lenox dress shirts are the best travel dress shirt I can trust.

I find that they’re versatile, comfortable and have a heap of good features to talk about. If you’re considering these shirts as travel button-down dress shirts, keep reading about why these just might be the best travel dress shirts out there.

travel design shirts

A brief rundown: Bluffworks Zenith button-down dress shirts

In the photos that follow, I am wearing the Zenith Dress Shirt in Classic Fit, Multicolor Gingham, Size S.

These smart travel dress shirts are more than a Zoom shirt, and I say that because I debuted my Zenith dress shirt at an online work Zoom party with my coworkers in 2020 while I was wearing a pair of loungey joggers .

Bluffworks says these shirts have many lives, and even outside the video meeting outfit, they sure do.

A lot of the excitement for these wrinkle-free flattering dress shirts for men is that they are timeless in style and have lots of qualities worth telling your friends about.

I say this because I often wind up talking about all my Bluffworks travel shirts when I’m on trips and wearing them: they’re a great conversation-starter once you start showing everyone how they refuse to wrinkle (and repel water).

Man wearing Bluffworks dress shirt and dress pants

Get an immediate 15% off, with our exclusive Bluffworks discount code (one-time use per customer)! Use code halfhalftravel15 at checkout.

Get the deal

Summary: The new Lenox wrinkle-free dress shirts

The Lenox dress shirt collection from Bluffworks is also made from the signature wrinkle-free, odor-resistant and soft knit fabric. The difference between the Lenox and the Zenith is that the Lenox has “pointed lapel with collar stays.”

This technical shirt is a dab more formal than the Zenith, and only comes in solid colors (think of wearing one to a wedding or formal event). Of course, the Lenox travel dress shirts are also machine-washable, which comes in so handy if you’re scared of ironing (I am).

Technical features of the Zenith Dress Shirts

The Zenith shirts have a host of features that earn them the titles of the “best men’s travel dress shirts” for professionals and travelers.

Let’s check them out here.

travel design shirts

Wrinkle-free fabric

When I wear dress shirts, I prefer the look of rolling up the sleeves, so my ideal dress shirt is one that doesn’t get sleeve wrinkles. Only shirts that are wrinkle free allow this. Some of my other travel shirts look terrible when I try to roll down the sleeves after rolling them up.

The Zenith travel dress shirts don’t wrinkle… at all.

Specifically for the arm-rolling, this wrinkle-free feature is useful because you can wear the same shirt twice and not have sleeves be wrinkled after the second time. No one will ever know you wore it yesterday. This is a game-changer, specific to when you’re away from home and don’t plan to do laundry until you get back.

The shirts are even wrinkle-free after I take them out of my packing cubes during a trip. For more on packing cubes, including the Bluffworks packing cubes, check out my rundown of the best packing cubes for travel .

travel design shirts

Slight stretch component

With a blend of 94% polyester and 6% spandex for the Zenith, these shirts are slightly stretchy. This makes them comfortable to wear for an entire day. They are more forgiving when you are dancing at a wedding, or sitting all day in an office.

Man wearing Bluffworks travel suit without the jacket

Odor-wicking material

The material has odor-repellent qualities, so they tend not to smell like any BO, even after multiple wears. This is useful for me if I only bring one shirt on a trip, and have multiple times that I need to wear a nice shirt.

travel design shirts

Water, stain and spill-resistant

I enjoy showing this off when I’m at meals with friends during a trip. I’ll splash a little water on my Bluffworks Zenith shirt and show everyone how it stays as a little droplet without making the shirt wet at all. You can just dab off any moisture droplets that fall on these shirts.

That is a great aspect of a travel shirt because the idea is that you may not have access to a washer during a three- or five-day trip.

travel design shirts

Care and washability

The Zenith shirts are machine-washable, which is huge for anyone who dislikes going to a dry cleaners just to care for dress shirts. These travel dress shirts go right through the laundry and hang dry with no problem.

travel design shirts

Versatile use cases for the Zenith and Lenox dress shirts

Plainly put, these travel dress shirts are very multi-purpose. You can wear Bluffworks’ dress shirts for a business meeting and then a nice night out.

Regarding how I’ve worn them during travel, I’ve worn the Zenith travel button-downs to holiday dinners with my wife’s family, wedding rehearsal dinners, client events and wedding weekend social gatherings.

The Bluffworks dress shirts are also ideal for wearing with a suit like the Bluffworks Gramercy travel suit . You can learn more at my Gramercy suit review ! Further, don’t miss my tips on how to fold a suit for travel .

Interested in packing like a minimalist? I have a few tips about minimalist packing, here , including how to get your wardrobe down to a small capsule of must-have essentials like these dress shirts.

Man wearing Bluffworks dress shirt and dress pants

Are the Bluffworks wrinkle-free dress shirts worth the money?

The Bluffworks Zenith travel shirts and Lenox shirts are absolutely worth the investment if you plan to have continued use cases for travel button-down dress shirts in the next few years.

I never even thought I’d be wearing them more than a few times, but I wind up packing them on most trips I take. The Zenith shirts work well under a blazer, or with Bluffworks’ Ascender Chinos for a decent business casual outfit.

While you’re here, don’t miss our list of the best men’s pants for travel , including the Bluffworks line of men’s travel pants.

I’ve worn them with brown or black jeans to the same effect. They’re an easy way to look put together, especially when you’re on the road without your entire closet at your disposal.

This being said, if you really don’t think you’d get use out of a shirt like this, then it’s not for you; however, the Zenith style and the Lenox style isn’t going out of style anytime soon, so if you may have a few limited uses even in the next few years, it’s great to have a wrinkle-free dress shirt on hand for taking on some travel.

Regarding the investment required for this essential in men’s travel apparel, note that Bluffworks often has seasonal sales during which the retail price of these shirts may get marked down as much as 30%. I wouldn’t wait though, because your desired size and color might go out of stock or on backorder.

Conclusion: Bluffworks dress shirts for travel

We hope you found value in this review of the men’s Zenith and Lenox travel dress shirts from Bluffworks.

Bluffworks is a brand that’s building great apparel for travel with all these useful features in mind.

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Halløj ! We’re Becca & Dan.

We created this blog to share some of the knowledge and experience that we have around travel , remote work , photography and beyond!

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These pants are so comfortable! They are soft and light but feel very durable. Great job!

I would recommend the TEREN Lightweight Traveler Pants because they met every expectation. They are good looking, well designed and extremely comfortable. I especially like the two hidden pockets, the zippered back pocket and the magnetic closure. I will definitely purchase another pair in the near future.

These were definitely not oversold. My husband saw them and thought he would like them, so I got him a pair for Christmas. He is in love with them - they are comfortable, but look so nice. His new wear-whenever pants!

These pants are made with excellent quality fabrics and they are very well thought out. I tested these out for a full week, I wore them for 7 days straight obviously changing my underwear daily. These pants held up to everything from walking the dog to a two trip in extreme cold temperatures and I wore thermals underneath. The pants held up through everything I could give them. The magnetic button is a great touch, the zippers are easy to work and the pants have zippered hidden pockets. The pockets are deep for travel and well laid out. I would love to see two to three styles in more of a straight leg business pant design because I will buy them instantly.

Fantastic jacket well-made nice and warm have worn it in 14 degree weather keeps warm great product

I bought the long sleeve merino T for my picky son. Soft, cooling, moisture wicking and a classic fit. The 2x was long enough for his 6’8” frame. Would definitely recommend!

The pants are fantastic but the customer service is even better! I managed to get a size too big and I got an immediate response to my plea for help. It was a smooth return process and I now have the right size and cannot wait for my next adventure.

I wore this jacket over the top of my motorcycle jacket on a 350mile ride to north wales in the middle of winter in a rain storm. It performed 100% as described. Stretchy enough to get over the bike jacket. 100% wind and rain proof it’s amazing, not a drop of rain got through after 7 hours of high speed heavy rain. Really cannot recommend this jacket enough.

After trying on one pair, I'm confident in saying these are the best pants I've ever owned. Whatever the occasion, I'll wear this brand every day of the week. It would be exciting to see their pant styles expand a bit more(bootcut, relaxed, ect.). In the end, I'd 100% recommend this brand to anyone looking for quality apparel.

These are the Swiss Army knife of pants. I love the ridiculous amount of utility I get out of them. The hidden zipper pockets are incredibly clutch when I ride my bike. I don’t have to worry about my phone sliding out of my pocket while I ride. They definitely pass the eye test as dressy option but feel a little like wear sweats. They are very comfortable and I was initially a little skeptical of the magnetic button but have found it to have a ton of subtle benefits that I had never dreamed of, I wish more of my pants had them. They quick dry nature and built in bug repellent has made them my go to trail pants with no need to pack a second pair even if I am switching it up and going out for the evening. Love the fit and my wife thinks they look great on me to boot, highly recommend

So happy with my new fleece! Love that it works as well on its own as it does as a layering piece under a rain shell. The slim arms and chest allow the outer layer to slide over the fleece without anything bunching up. Also, I firmly believe that all clothing should come with a bungee cord hang tag like this does. Teren has an amazing attention to detail.

I've had my Daily Driver Tee for over 2 months now and find myself wearing it several times a week. It's been great for hiking, biking, climbing, and those beers you may or may not tell your wife about after. Well worth the price for a quality garment. I consider myself to be a minimalist and am happy to have this as a reliable piece in my rotation!

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The 12 Best T-shirts for Women of 2024

Keep it cool with these short-sleeved travel essentials.

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Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

When it comes to packing for warm-weather travels, a bikini and sunglasses may be at the top of your list. Don’t forget the humble T-shirt, though — when the sun is shining, these everyday essentials form the lynchpin of many outfits whether you’re dressing for city sightseeing or a laid-back day at the beach.

Oversized tees, cropped tees, tees with pockets and tees with plackets, technical workout tees and tees that are very much a fashion statement… There are many different types to choose from in fabrics ranging from butter-soft modal to hard-wearing, breathable cotton. To make your selection easier, we’ve researched our favorite travel T-shirts for women across a wide range of unique categories. 

Best Overall

Aday essentialist t-shirt.

This is a quality shirt that prioritizes comfort and sustainability while also offering some unique design features. 

It’s not a budget option, so buying more than one color quickly becomes expensive. 

If you believe in spending money on quality items that will stand the test of time, you’ll love the Aday Essentialist T-shirt. It’s made from super-soft, plant-based modal that’s as durable as it is lightweight. This fabric is ideal for travel since it dries quickly and breathes well whether you’re on your third flight of the day or exploring tropical beaches and jungles at your destination. It’s also good for the planet. The modal is sourced from sustainable forests, is OEKO-TEX certified, and made with up to 20 times less water than cotton in a zero-waste factory. 

Ethics aside, this is a shirt that serves as a wardrobe staple while simultaneously making a subtle fashion statement. It’s deliberately oversized for maximum freedom of movement with a fairly high crew neck. This modest look is offset by high side splits and the visual interest of a hi-low hem that’s shorter in the front than the back. We love the intrigue this adds to your ‘fit when worn as is, and also that it makes it easier to tuck into jeans or skirts without adding too much bulk to your waistline. 

Finally, this conveniently machine washable T-shirt comes in a range of colors, from classic shades like coconut (white) and black to limited edition terracotta and mist (gray).

The Details: XS to XL | 90 percent Tencel modal, 10 percent elastane 

Buck Mason Slub Easy Crew

Made from textured cotton slub, this shirt offers durability and a timeless, goes-with-everything look.

Color choices are all fairly subdued, so those with a passion for brighter shades will need to look elsewhere.

The Buck Mason Slub Easy Crew is all about understated quality. Designed for a classic fit with short sleeves, a crew neck, and a straight hem, it’s meant as a staple piece for everyday use. It goes with everything from shorts to leggings and can be worn on its own or as a layer in colder weather. We love the lightweight, breathable cotton slub fabric. With its textured feel, it gives off vintage vibes and is renowned for its sustainable manufacturing process. 

Slub is also up to the challenge of frequent use, meaning you can wear it over and over again on your travels without it showing signs of wear. This allows you to pack less and leave more room in your suitcase for souvenirs. Refreshing the T-shirt is easy too — just throw it in the washer on cold and tumble dry on low. It has been garment dyed and pre-washed with softener for that irresistible lived-in feel and comes in a range of neutral shades from dark navy to faded black. 

The Details: XS to XXL | 100 percent cotton slub

Best V-neck

Tommy bahama kauai jersey t-shirt.

Tommy Bahama

This shirt comes in a range of gorgeous colors to suit all tastes, from the neutral to the brightly tropical.

The fit is deliberately generous, so size down if you prefer a more fitted look. 

We love a V-neck for framing jewelry, showcasing necklines, and elongating the torso. The Kauai Jersey T-shirt from Tommy Bahama is a quality pick made from a modal and polyester blend with a touch of spandex for the perfect balance of softness and stretch. It’s meant for tropical getaways and summer vacations, with a relaxed fit that leaves plenty of room for airflow and keeps movement unrestricted.

Rolled sleeve cuffs cut at an angle add interest to an otherwise plain design. We also like that the T-shirt comes in a full choice of solid and heathered colors to suit every kind of trip, from classic black and silver streak heather to Caribbean-ready tango red or paradise pink. And, because nobody has time for hand washing on vacation, the T-shirt is machine washable and tumble dry safe as long as you use the appropriate settings. 

The Details: XXS to XL | 67 percent Tencel modal, 28 percent polyester, 5 percent spandex

Best Square Neck

Old navy fitted rib-knit t-shirt.

This T-shirt achieves sexy comfort with an exaggerated neckline and super-soft fabric. 

Some may find the neck opening a little too wide. 

With its generous square neck, short sleeves, and figure-hugging cut, the Old Navy Fitted Rib-knit T-shirt offers a sexier alternative to the standard crew neck. It’s designed to hit below the waist for a flattering, elongated silhouette and is reassuringly opaque. We love the cotton-spandex blend for its softness and for the fact that it clings everywhere you want it to and nowhere that you don’t. 

It’s shaping without being too tight, and stretches impressively to accommodate larger chests. No matter your body shape, you’ll be able to find the right fit with inclusive sizes ranging from XS to 4X in regular, tall, and petite cuts. Color choices are equally versatile, whether you’re a bold cherry tomato or a delicate cashmere blue kind of girl. Best of all, this shirt is so well priced that if you’re stuck between two shades, you can probably justify getting both. 

The Details: XS to 4X | 96 percent cotton, 4 percent spandex 

Best Scoop Neck

Everlane the supima micro-rib scoop-neck tee.

Long-staple Supima cotton is the secret behind this figure-hugging tee’s superior strength and softness.

The fabric is relatively thin, so it’s a better bet for warm climates than as a layer for chilly ones.

This micro-rib tee from Everlane effortlessly accentuates your curves with its sweeping scoop neck. The effect is juxtaposed by the shirt’s extra-length sleeves, which hit just above the elbow for an elevated look that’s simultaneously sensual and sophisticated. We also appreciate the raised central seam running down the back of the shirt to help to lengthen the look of your torso. 

The shirt is made from fine-ribbed Supima cotton with extra-long fibers for added durability and color retention — meaning that this tee should stand the test of time (and travel). A touch of elastane makes for a snug fit throughout that shapes without being restrictive. In terms of color, choose effortlessly stylish neutrals such as heather tan and Kalamata (olive) or opt for eye-catching jewel tones like bellwether blue. 

The Details: XXS to XXL | 96 percent Supima cotton, 4 percent elastane

Best Henley

Gap modern rib henley t-shirt.

This shirt’s slim fit and buttoned placket make it a versatile choice that can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion. 

The white color is not completely opaque, so careful bra choice is required if you don’t want it to be visible. 

The Gap Modern Rib Henley T-shirt pairs a crew neck with a buttoned placket that you can wear unbuttoned for a more casual look, or fastened for smarter occasions. This versatility is ideal for travel, helping to reduce the number of items you need to pack. We love the shirt’s short, fitted sleeves and the fact that it’s slim without being too snug. The cotton-modal blend includes a small percentage of elastane, allowing it to stretch to fit in all the right places. 

It’s also soft, comfortable, and lightweight enough to keep you cool whether you’re touring the sights of a sticky summer city or working up a sweat on the trail. Because it’s machine washable, keeping it clean on the go is easy, too. Color choices are fairly limited but include wardrobe staples such as optic white, dried moss green, black, and our favorite, a powdery bicoastal blue. 

The Details: XXS to XXL | 58 percent cotton, 38 percent modal, 4 percent elastane

Best Oversized

Madewell garment-dyed oversized pocket tee.

Everything about this T-shirt is effortless, from its oversized fit to the garment-dyed comfort of its fabric. 

Stick to your regular size for the oversized look. 

The Madewell Garment-dyed Oversized Pocket Tee is intentionally roomy, with minimalist, unisex styling from its dropped shoulders to the functional patch pocket on the left breast. It looks great as is, or with a simple front tuck into the waistband of your favorite jeans. 

It’s made from weighty cotton jersey that has been garment-dyed for that pre-loved, broken-in feel right out of the box. We love the fabric’s soft comfort and the way it drapes flatteringly without clinging anywhere. Even the eyelet white colorway is fully opaque. Other options include vintage-looking old mahogany, weathered concrete, and black coal. The shirt is machine washable for on-the-go convenience. 

The Details: XXS to XXL | 100 percent cotton

Best Cropped

Lululemon cates cropped t-shirt.

This shirt’s fabric combines the softness and durability of Pima cotton with the athletic stretch of Lycra. 

Colors are all neutral or pastel with no options for making a bolder statement. 

If you’re headed somewhere warm and want maximum airflow, treat yourself to the Lululemon Cates Cropped T-shirt. Designed to hit just above waist-height, it’s not indecently short. You could wear it with a high-rise skirt or pants and keep the amount of skin on display to a minimum. But, if you want to show off your hard work in the gym, pairing it with regular- or low-rise bottoms will result in tastefully displaying your midsection.

The fabric offers all the lightweight breathability and luxurious softness of Pima cotton. It’s also naturally durable thanks to the long-staple fibers, with added Lycra for flexibility and shape retention. Four-way stretch means full mobility, making this an equally good choice for low-impact workouts and post-gym relaxation. Machine washable and dryer safe, the shirt comes in a range of soft colors ranging from white to Belgian blue or strawberry milkshake.

The Details: 0 to 14 | Pima cotton, Lycra

Best Breathable

Athleta breezy scoop v tee.

This shirt is crafted from ultra-light fabric and manages to be both loose enough for breathability and fitted enough to flatter. 

Some of the lighter colorways are not fully opaque. 

The Athleta Breezy Scoop V Tee is especially designed for travel, vacations, and exploring the outdoors. We love it for high heat and humidity destinations where breathability is key. It’s made from a super lightweight modal-polyester blend, with a fit that drapes beautifully while offering plenty of ventilation. The subtle texture of the fabric feels good against bare skin, while the dropped hem at the back provides full bum coverage. 

The shirt scores sustainability points too, since the modal is harvested from responsibly managed and certified forests. And (because warm weather means more frequent washing), you’ll be pleased to hear that it’s both machine washable and dryer safe. No access to a dryer? No problem, the fabric is light enough that it’ll dry quickly over a pool railing or balcony. Colors are diverse and range from statement shades (iceplant pink) to soft pastels (honeysuckle yellow.)

The Details: XXS to 3X | Tencel modal, polyester

Best Athleisure

Athleta momentum seamless tee.

Targeted ventilation panels and UPF 40+ sun protection make this the ideal shirt for outdoor workouts. 

The fit runs a little small so if you’re between sizes, consider sizing up. 

If you like to stay active on your travels, check out the Athleta Momentum Seamless Tee for one that’s specifically intended for medium- to high-impact workouts. It’s made from lightweight, breathable, quick-drying nylon, with ventilation panels in strategic areas including up the sides, under the chest, and in between the shoulder blades. Grippers at the inner hem prevent the shirt from riding up, while seamless construction equals zero chafing. 

The fit is meant to be close for unimpeded freedom of movement; however, if you prefer a slightly more relaxed look, you can always size up. We also love that this shirt is as well-suited to outdoor workouts (Think: beach yoga and stand-up paddling) as it is to indoor gym sessions, with a UPF 40+ rating to protect you from the sun’s harmful rays. Colorways cater to every taste with a rainbow of solid, striped, heathered, and gradient shades. 

The Details: XXS to 3X | 100 percent nylon (solid colors), 65 percent nylon, 35 percent recycled nylon (heathered colors)

Best Size-inclusive

Skims soft smoothing seamless t-shirt.

Available in a full range of sizes, this shirt is lightly compressive for a snug, stretchy fit that stays perfectly in place. 

Care instructions (hand wash, line dry) aren’t particularly travel-friendly.

The Skims Soft Smoothing Seamless T-shirt comes in a full range of sizes from XXS to 4X and flatters all body types with its crew neck, short sleeves, and top-of-the-hip length that pairs well with everything from flowy skirts to workout gear. We love the light compression and subtle smoothing effect offered by the nylon-spandex fabric; and the fact that it stretches easily to accommodate larger chests and arms without becoming see-through. 

The fabric also hugs your curves and stays securely in place — no irritating riding or rolling up here. It’s butter soft, too, making this shirt as well suited to lounging at your villa or Airbnb as it is to wearing out or layering under other clothing. Classic shades include onyx, cocoa, and marble. If you prefer a more colorful look, keep an eye out for limited edition choices such as bright, attention-grabbing fuschia. 

The Details: XXS to 4X | 93 percent nylon, 7 percent spandex

Best Sustainable

Patagonia women’s capilene cool lightweight shirt.

Sustainable fabrics and an ethical manufacturing process make this shirt a win for you and the planet. 

Colors are limited, with just three options currently available. 

When it comes to sustainability, Patagonia leads the way with its 1% for the Planet pledge, sustainable materials, and ethical working conditions. The Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt is no exception, being made from at least 52 percent recycled nylon in a Fair Trade Certified factory. It’s the brand’s lightest technical top, designed for active adventure-seekers in cool to hot climates. We love its versatility and think it works just as well as a casual tee or a layering item. 

The T-shirt features a moderate scoop neck and drop tail hem for added style points, as well as a slim fit that flatters your figure while still leaving enough room for ventilation. Overheating is unlikely given the built-in side vents; but if you do break a sweat, no worries. The shirt wicks moisture, dries quickly, and employs HeiQ Mint odor control to keep things fresh. Colors include Sienna clay, subtidal blue, and a smolder blue that’s closer to gray. 

The Details: XS to XL | Partially or fully recycled nylon

Tips for Buying Travel T-shirts

Prioritize versatility.

Whether you’re traveling by plane, car, or train, you’ll probably have a limit to how much you can bring on vacation. When picking a travel T-shirt, choose one that can fulfill several different functions and therefore save space on your packing list. For example, look for athleisure shirts that offer all the technical specs required for a successful workout while still looking stylish enough for trips to the beach or out for coffee. When choosing everyday tees, we love versatile fabrics and neutral colors that are easy to mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe. Look for details such as a Henley button-down placket or a sexy scoop neck that allow a shirt to be dressed up or down to suit several different scenarios. 

Know the pros and cons of different materials

Travel T-shirts are everyday items that need to be as comfortable and practical as possible. We recommend prioritizing materials like cotton and modal that are both lightweight and naturally breathable, helping to keep you cool in warm weather. If you’re planning active adventures or like to workout on vacation, then nylon and polyester are the best bet for sweat-wicking, quick-drying comfort. Often, both casual and athleisure tees will contain a percentage of elastane (sometimes called spandex or Lycra). This provides stretch for freedom of movement and a figure-hugging fit. Finally, nobody wants to waste precious vacation time ironing or hand washing their clothes. Look for wrinkle-resistant fabrics that can be machine washed and dried.

One of the best ways to fold a T-shirt for travel is to lay it out, face up. Next, fold the shirt lengthways into thirds by bringing the outer edges in toward the middle, making sure that the sleeves are folded back onto their respective third. When you have a long, neat rectangle in front of you, roll the shirt tightly into a cylinder shape. This packing style not only saves a considerable amount of space, but it also prevents shirts from creasing too much while in transit. 

There’s no strict rule for the number of T-shirts you should pack for a trip, since the answer depends on variable factors including the weather, your planned activities, and access to laundry facilities. However, a general rule of thumb is that you should pack four tops for a week-long trip. If you’re headed somewhere warm, you may want all of these to be T-shirts; or you may want a combination of tanks, tees, and long-sleeve shirts. For longer vacations you may want to pack a few more, but plan on using a laundry service to refresh your wardrobe periodically rather than packing enough fresh outfits to last for the duration of your trip. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure 

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel gear and clothing for more than a decade. She’s put her fair share of T-shirts to the test while living in warm and humid climates including North Carolina, South Africa, and Southeast Asia. She chose the category winners above by comparing the prices, features, and customer reviews of more than 30 popular T-shirt brands.  

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