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Home » Gear » best travel jacket

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

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

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

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

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

Quick Answer: Best Travel Jackets Roundup 2024

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

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

Best Winter Jacket for Travelers – Ravean Down X Heated Jacket

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

Best Budget Travel Jacket – REI 650 Down Jacket

• Most Stylish Travel Jacket –  Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Hooded

Patagonia Nano Puff Hoodie

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

Arc’teryx Beta AR

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

Ravean Down X Heated Jacket

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

Arc’teryx Thorium Down Hoodie

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

Feathered Friends EOS

• Best Use > travel, hiking or casual city use

Patagonia Nano Puff

• Best Use > Traveling, outdoor sports, hiking, camping.

Burton GORE-TEX Pillowline Insulated Jacket

• Best Use > Winter sports

REI 650 Down Jacket

Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisper 2

• Best Use > Urban lifestyle, traveling, hiking

Best Overall Travel Jacket  –  Patagonia Nano Puff Hoodie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out our full Ravean Down X Heated Jacket review .

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

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

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

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

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

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Best Ultralight Down Jacket: Feathered Friends EOS

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Jacket for Women – Patagonia Nano Puff

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Most Stylish Travel Jacket –   Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 Hooded

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

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

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

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

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

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

What jacket should backpackers get?

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

What is the most stylish travel jacket?

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

Are down jackets good for travelling?

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

What is the best packable jacket?

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

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

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

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

Stay warm my friends!

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

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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

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11 of the Best Travel Jackets for Your Next Adventure

01/26/2024 by Kristin Addis 1 Comment

Finding the best travel jackets can be a quest, but it’s one worth undertaking. My ideal jacket is ultra-functional, fits with my style, and works for various climates and activities. Is that too much to ask? Whether you’re exploring urban landscapes or venturing into the wilderness, the right jacket should be comfy and versatile enough to accompany you on all of your travels.

Here, I’ve handpicked a selection of the best jackets for travelers, each uniquely suited for different types of adventures.

Table of Contents

1. Eddie Bauer Women’s Charly Jacket – $129

The bright yellow Eddie Bauer Charly Jacket is as functional as it is eye-catching. Ideal for destinations prone to rain and wind, like the Azores , this jacket features big zippered pockets and a sturdy build. Its vibrant color not only stands out in travel photos but also adds a cheerful touch to overcast days. Snag one for yourself and see why I’m so obsessed with mine!

2. Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket – $80

This sleek and lightweight down jacket from Uniqlo is a traveler’s delight. It’s incredibly compact, easily folding into a pouch, yet it provides substantial warmth. Perfect for chilly mornings in the mountains or brisk city nights, its streamlined design also means it won’t take up much space in your luggage.

3. Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket – $280

I’ve had my Rab Microlight Alpine for years, and I still break it out when I’m traveling to chillier destinations. It’s just right for cold, adventurous trips and incredibly warm for its weight and size, packing down into a small pouch for convenience. Whether you’re hiking Mount Rainier or exploring a wintry city, this jacket provides essential warmth without bulk.

4. Calvin Klein Jeans Plaid Wool Shirt Jacket – $150

When it comes to finding the best travel jackets, sometimes it helps to think outside the box. I love anything merino wool, because it’s light and surprisingly warm. Especially when I travel during seasonal transitions like spring or fall, I like to have a jacket that layers well with a vest or long sleeves underneath. The one in the photo above is my favorite, and this one from Calvin Klein is the closest thing I’ve seen online.

5. Free People Hit the Slopes Fleece Jacket – $148

Light, warm, and versatile, the Free People Hit the Slopes Fleece Jacket is a must-have for travelers seeking both comfort and style. Its understated design ensures that it matches everything, making it an excellent choice for trips where you want to pack light but stay cozy. I love the texture of this one, and it’s held up well over time, no matter now many chilly mornings I spend in it!

6. Columbia Women’s Switchback III Jacket – $50

This jacket is a prime example of Columbia’s reputation for quality outdoor gear. The Switchback III shines in its versatility and compactness, and it’s a stellar choice for travelers who can’t pack light enough. This is the jacket for you if you know you’ll be adventuring in the rain and wind, as it’s completely waterproof.

You can adjust the Velcro wrist cuffs and bungee cord hem to allow for a customized fit, ensuring comfort and protection against the elements. I’m dying to test this one out!

7. Aritzia TnAction The Pillow Puff – $128

This one is for all of you travelers who wouldn’t dare leave the house in a traditional sporty rain jacket. The Aritzia TnAction The Pillow Puff is not only fashion-forward but super practical, making it a must-have for the style-conscious traveler. This puffer jacket is 100 percent vegan down and has PrimaLoft insulation, so it also ticks off some ethical fashion boxes.

Designed to provide comfort in temperatures as low as 32 degrees, the Pillow Puff works for a range of activities, from early-morning hikes to urban walking tours. The jacket is water-repellent (not completely waterproof) and suitable for a range of weather conditions. Plus, it comes in some adorable colors: purple, pink, black, gray, and blush. You can also get the Pillow Puff in a vest version, offering an alternative style for different climates or personal preferences.

8. Girlfriend Collective Packable Puffer – $148

Say hello to the Girlfriend Collective Packable Puffer , the jacket that’s as conscious about the environment as it is about keeping you cozy on those chilly adventures. This is the ideal pick for when you need just a touch of warmth without going full parka mode.

The outer shell and filling of the jacket is made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles, which is pretty cool! It’s also wind-resistant and water-repellent, so whether you’re going for a breezy beach walk or dodging unexpected drizzles, this jacket has got your back.

9. DU/ER Weightless Reversible Jacket – $97

Get ready to meet the chameleon of travel jackets: the DU/ER Weightless Reversible Jacket . This jacket is the definition of getting two for the price of one. One side flaunts a classy brown cotton fabric, while the flip side has a blue puffer material. Heading out for a casual city stroll or gearing up for a chilly evening? This jacket has got both scenarios covered.

One of the features of this jacket that caught my eye was the adjustable waist, which elevates the style. Cinch it up for a snugger, more defined look, or leave it loose for an oversized fit. Plus, the jacket’s midweight nature means it’s compact enough to slide into your carry-on, leaving plenty of room for the rest of your travel essentials.

10. Patagoni a Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket – $179

You just found your new best friend for those “just in case” travel moments. The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket is the epitome of pack-and-go — it tucks neatly into its front pocket. But don’t let its simplicity fool you. This jacket is a powerhouse when it comes to battling the elements. Totally waterproof and as light as a feather, it’s designed to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at you, and it’s built to last.

People who love this jacket really love it because of its comfort. It has a two-way-adjustable hood and a cozy micro-fleece-lined neck. No more wrestling with hoods that won’t stay put or that scratchy feeling against your chin. Plus, it comes in eight colors!

11. Cotopaxi Women’s Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker – $60

The Cotopaxi Women’s Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker is a game-changer for those breezy, in-between weather days. What sets this anorak apart is its combo of lightweight yet sturdy protection. Made from repurposed polyester taffeta with a DWR finish, it fights off wind and rain without feeling plastic-y like many other windbreakers. This one is slightly oversized, so it’s perfect for layering a cozy sweatshirt underneath. And if the temps really drop, it slides effortlessly under a bulkier coat.

Although finding the best travel jackets for your personal style and travel needs might be tricky, I hope this gave you plenty of options to choose from.

Which one will come with you on your next adventure?

*Some links in this post are affiliate links that support this site at no extra cost to you when you purchase through them. Everybody wins!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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divya jain says

02/01/2024 at 10:03 pm

Thank you for sharing such a good information It will help us a lot.

16 Best Travel Jackets (How to Choose the Best One for Your Trip!)

If you are a traveler, you know the importance of adding the best travel jacket to your packing list. They keep you warm and comfortable in chilly airports, train stations, and bus depots.

 They are also a great line of defense against rain while you are on the streets or hiking the trails. They allow you to maneuver through multiple climates while always staying dry and warm.

So, what goes into making the perfect travel jacket? Well, that depends almost entirely on the season you will be traveling in or two.  This will affect what materials are best, what level of water-resistance is acceptable and the type of insulation that will best suit you.

Here is some key information to review when choosing between the best travel jackets.

Top 6 Travel Jackets

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: The Best Travel Jackets

• Best All-Around Travel Jacket for Men: Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket
• Best All-Around Travel Jacket for Women: Eddie Bauer Women’s Year Round Quilted Field Jacket
• Best Rain Jacket for Men: The North Face Resolve
• Best Rain Jacket for Women: The North Face Laney II Trench Raincoat
• Best Winter Jacket for Men: Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer Down Jacket
• Best Winter Jacket for Women: Canada Goose Women’s Shelburne Parka
• Best Skiing Jacket for Men: North Face Thermoball Triclimate
• Best Skiing Jacket for Women: The North Face Arrowood TriClimate Jacket
• Best Hiking Jacket for Men: The North Face Apex Bionic 2
• Best Hiking Jacket for Women: Outdoor Research Women’s Interstellar Jacket
• Best Multi-functional Jacket for Men: Tumi Packable Travel Puffer Jacket
• Best Multi-functional Jacket for Women: Tumi Women’s Packable Travel Puffer Jacket
• Best Budget Jacket for Men: Eddie Bauer CirrusLite Down Jacket
• Best Budget Jacket for Women:  Eddie Bauer CirrusLite Down Jacket
• Best Lightweight Insulated Jacket for Men: The North Face ThermoBall Jacket
• Best Lightweight Insulated Jacket for Women: RAB Microlight Alpine Jacket
• Best 3-in-1 Jacket for Men: Columbia Bugaboo II Fleece Interchange
• Best 3-in-1 Jacket for Women: Columbia Women’s Bugaboo II Fleece Interchange Jacket

Guide to Choosing the Best Travel Jackets

Best for summer

Summer travel jackets have more than one job. Besides warming you up on chilly morning commutes they also act as a protecting layer against harsh sun, winds, and insects.

That is why you will want something durable and lightweight that can also fill the protection necessities. Here are some factors to consider.

Wrinkle Resistance

Chances are your summer travel jacket is going to spend most of its time packed away, stuffed into a day pack or tucked in a travel bag.  That is why finding one with some sort of wrinkle resistance is essential.

The best fabric for wrinkle resistance is Merino Wool. This is a soft lightweight material that retains its smooth texture even after being repeatedly stuffed into a bag. It is also extremely breathable and feels great against your skin.

Polyester is second in line when it comes to its wrinkle-free properties. Almost all performance fabrics and travel clothing have at least some polyester fibers meaning it will be easy to find when shopping for your summer travel jacket.

Tencel is another synthetic material you might find on the shelves. This fabric will still wrinkle when packed up but is easy to smooth out. Most of the time, just hanging up your jacket will do the trick.

Water-Resistance

In certain areas, summer brings torrential rainfalls that can make traveling more difficult.  That is why it is important to find a summer travel jacket that will be able to keep you dry as you navigate your way through the rains.

Nylon and polyester fabrics are great for these conditions.  They have a great ability to wick away moisture and dry out quickly.  When you couple these materials with a weather-proof / waterproof coating you will have a jacket suited for all summer travel activities.

Cotton jackets, on the other hand, tend to hold moisture. That means when the rains penetrate the jacket it will leave you with a soggy mess with an inability to keep you warm. It is best to stay away from this material when looking into summer travel jackets.

Breathable Fabric

Let’s face it, summer is hot. That is why it is important to look for a jacket that is breathable. Choosing Merino Wool, polyester or nylon materials will give your jacket inherent breathable qualities. You can also look for things like a “mesh-lined yoke” which will also increase the breath-ability of your jacket.

Sun Protection

If you are traveling to environments with harsh sun you might want to use your jacket as a layer of protection against UV radiation. All fabrics allow for some level of UV radiation to penetrate through to your skin.

That is why you want to look for your jackets UPF rating. UPF, or UV protection factor, indicate what percentage of UV-rays can penetrate. Any travel jacket with a UPF rating of 30 or higher will offer excellent protection.

Best for Fall and Spring

The Spring and Fall months can be unpredictable when traveling. Rains can quickly pop up in the spring and cold bursts can catch you off guard in the Fall. In these transition seasons, travel jackets with a variety of versatility features is key.

Here is what I mean.

• Zip-out Liners: Zip out liners are a great feature of the best travel jackets for Spring/Fall. This is an added piece of fabric made from things like fleece that can be zipped in when the temperature drops or taken out when the sun starts warming up.
• Stowable Hoods: These hoods can either be zipped into their own pockets at the collar or buttoned on allowing you to completely remove and add them as needed. These offer great protection if caught in a surprise rainstorm or heavy winds.
• Waist Drawstring: A drawstring at the waist has one purpose.  Extra insulation. This small detail can protect against drafts on blustery evenings or opened to allow more breathability in warmer temperatures.
• Chin Box Collar: A chin box collar simply means that the jacket zips up to your chin. This feature will make sure your neck stays warm no matter the weather and can be unzipped and lay flat when it isn’t needed.
• Waterproof: In these months, water-resistant jackets just aren’t enough.  You will want something with a waterproof treatment to ensure you stay dry.

Best for winter

The best travel jackets for winter travel are those that give you the most insulation and warmth. That doesn’t mean that they have to be bulky and take up half of your suitcase.

The best winter travel jackets are also compressible allowing them to be easily stowed during non-use. Let’s take a look at the things that make a great winter travel jacket.

Down vs. Synthetic Fill

When looking for a winter travel jacket there are really only two fill options to consider: down and down synthetic.  These products offer the most warmth, durability and lightweight characteristics. Everything you need in a winter travel jacket.

Down is still the front-runner when it comes to outdoor gear such as vests, jackets, and sleeping bags . This is due to its superior ability to keep you warm in the coldest of temperatures.

It is also one of the most durable, compressible and comfortable options when it comes to winter travel jackets. Down works by trapping your body heat in an infinite amount of small air pockets and distributing the heat throughout the jacket.

Unfortunately, it does have a downside. Its natural enemy is water. When down gets wet, it loses much if not all of its loft rendering it useless as an insulator.

Once this occurs, it can take a very long time to dry out putting you in quite the predicament if you are away from your hotel. Luckily, the external shells of most down winter jackets have some sort of water-resistant abilities to prevent this from happening.

Synthetic down came in to meet the needs of those that want similar insulating abilities without the high price tag. While it still can’t meet the warming capabilities of down it does have some additional benefits.

Synthetic down is more resistant abrasion and will retain its ability to keep you warm even in heavy downpours.

It is also hypoallergenic making it great for all travelers. That being said, it does have a tendency to break down faster over extended use making it a less consistently reliable option.

Compact Packing

Naturally, a big concern for all travelers looking for the best travel jacket is how well it packs down. You don’t want a jacket that takes up a ton of space in your suitcase. So, it is important to look at how well a travel jacket can pack down.

This is where down steps back in. This fiber has an amazing ability to be compressed into a small sack or into its own pocket without affecting its insulating abilities.

It can be packed down to the size of a small bag that can fit perfectly in both hands. It can also be laid flat on top of other clothing and zipped tightly into your suitcase without taking up any space.

Synthetic down can easily do a great job of packing down. However, over repeated compression, synthetic down has a tendency to lose its insulating abilities and can become disfigured.

Pockets are a very important feature to look for in a winter travel jacket. Specifically pockets at the waist. This small feature allows you to quickly stuff your hands in warming them up without gloves.

They can also be perfect for carrying a hat, gloves and/or a scarf.

An internal chest pocket is also perfect for discreetly carrying things like your passport, extra cash or your phone. With enough pockets, you can easily travel around the city or hike through the mountains without the limitations of a day pack or purse.

Best Travel Jacket Recommendations

Women’s Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer

• 90% goose down fill
• 800-fill resists moisture and retains maximum loft
• Low profile quilt pattern
• Interior toggle hem for easy adjustment on the fly
• Soft elastic inner cuff binding to seal out the cold
• Zips into its own pocket for compact storage
• Built-in secure loop 

Check Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer price at Mountain Hardware.

Women’s The North Face Thermoball

• Exposed molded-tooth center front zip
• Internal elastic cuff
• Secure-zip hand pockets
• Stowable in pocket
• Hem cinch-cord
• Innovative bottleneck quilt pattern minimizes cold spots and improves durability
• 13 g ThermoBall insulation for warmth when wet

Check The North Face Thermoball price at Amazon

Women’s Columbia Mighty Lite III 

• Omni-Heat thermal reflective and insulated
• Omni-Shield advanced repellent
• Interior security pocket
• Zip-closed pockets
• Comfort cuffs
• Center back length: 25”

Check Columbia Mighty Lite III price at Amazon

Men’s Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer

• 800-fill down resists moisture and retains maximum loft.
• Low profile quilt pattern to create heat trapping down channels for extra warmth.
• Single interior toggle hem for easy adjustment on the fly.
• Soft elastic inner cuff binding to seal out the cold.
• Zips into its own pocket for compact storage.
• Built-in secure loop

Check Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer price at Mountain Hardwear.

Men’s Patagonia Nano Puff

Warm, windproof, water-resistant, the Nano Puff Jacket uses incredibly lightweight and highly compressible 60-g PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco with 55% post-consumer recycled content, wrapped in a 100% recycled polyester shell and lining.

Fair Trade Certified sewn. Born of shoulder-season belay duty and quick-hit ski tours, the Nano Puff Jacket finds a home with any back-country aficionado. Its wind-blocking, 100% recycled polyester shell sheds moisture and glides effortlessly in your layering system.

Low-bulk, hydrophobic, highly compressible 60-g PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco traps heat with remarkable efficiency, even when wet.

• Lightweight 100% recycled polyester ripstop shell and lining fabric
• DWR (durable water repellent) finish
• 60-g PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco
• 55% postconsumer recycled content
• Brick quilting pattern with horizontal quilt lines on side panels stabilizes insulation
• Durable thread for abrasion resistance
• Center-front zipper has wicking interior storm flap
• Zipper garage at chin for next-to-skin comfort
• Two zippered hand warmer pockets
• Zippered internal chest pocket doubles as a stuffsack
• Drawcord-adjustable drop-tail hem seals in warmth

Check Patagonia Nano Puff price at Amazon

Men’s The North Face Resolve 2

Revel in the deluge with this weatherproof rain jacket that features a breathable mesh lining and adjustable hood that stows inside the collar.

This waterproof, breathable technology utilizes a polyurethane (PU) coating that consists of a tri-component, multi-layer formula for waterproof protection, moisture permeability, and durability. 

It’s been lab and field-tested to ensure the best possible durability and function.  

• Breathable rain jacket
• Adjustable stowable hood
• Relaxed Fit
• Waterproof, seam-sealed DryVent 2L shell with mesh liner
• 100% windproof fabric

Check The North Face Resolve 2 price at Amazon

Not finding what you are looking for? Check out our favorite places to go shopping for travel gear.

• Shop Columbia – The industry leader in outdoor apparel and products; You can find anything from great jackets, gloves, hats, shirts, and travel pants.
• Shop REI – They offer some of the best outdoor gear around. We love REI since they have a year Love it or hate it no questions guarantee.
• Shop Moosejaw – Has a huge selection of outdoor gear at killer prices.

More on Travel Gear:

• Best Travel Towels for your Next Trip
• 15 Best Safari Bags for your Next Adventure
• 12 Best Down Vests
• Best Travel Daypack: Top 12
• Best Backpacking Stoves for Hiking & Travel
• How to Choose the Best GPS for Hiking
• Best Carry on Backpacks for Travel
• Best Sleeping Bag Liners: Top 12
• Best Compact Binoculars for Outdoors & Travel
• Best Drones For Travel From A Real Drone User
• Best Hiking Backpack for your Next Adventure
• 85 Best Travel Gifts for Travelers
• Best Travel Rain Jacket to Stay Dry on the Go
• The Best GoPro Accessories for Adventure Travel
• Best Sleeping Bag for Cold Weather-From Africa to Greenland
• Photography Gear Every Adventure Traveler Should Carry
• Ultimate Travel Photography Gear List
• How To Wear A Buff Headwear-It’s Easy!
• Affordable Travel Gear Every Adventurer Should Carry

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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Matador Original Series

These Are The Best Packable Travel Jackets On The Market

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

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

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

Jump to a review:

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

Packable travel jackets: Rundown of top options

Arc’teryx cerium hybrid hoody.

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $400

Buy Now – Men’s

Buy Now – Women’s

Cotopaxi Fuego down jacket

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

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

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

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

Price: From $199

Patagonia’s Micro Puff® Hoody

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

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $329

Patagonia’s Houdini® Air Jacket

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

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

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

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

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

Price: $179

Jack Wolfskin’s Pack & Go Shell

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Orvis Pro Insulated Hoody

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

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

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

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The 15 Best Men’s Packable Jackets for Hiking, Skiing, Running, and Beyond

These are the best down and synthetic jackets to wear anywhere.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

If you’re flying somewhere warm this fall or winter, the last thing you want is to be lugging around a parka or peacoat when you land. A bulky jacket won’t be useful either, especially if your travel plans include activities like hiking, running, or camping. Fortunately, that’s why packable jackets exist.

Insulated either with down made from duck and goose feathers or synthetic materials, packable jackets are ultra-lightweight, keep you warm, and magically stuff into their own pocket or carrying sack for optimal portability. While these jackets tend to look like puffers, they aren’t the big and bulky ones you’d see in a ‘90s hip-hop video. They’re much thinner and weigh next to nothing, making them perfect for layering. 

We tried out the best packable jackets available firsthand and wore them for our travels and day-to-day activities during the testing period. We found jackets that are not only comfortable, warm, and provide good value, but that also have travel-friendly features like inside pockets and stashable hoods. These are our favorites.

Best Overall

Eddie bauer men's cirruslite down jacket.

This is a no-nonsense packable jacket at an unbeatable price.

There’s no extra packing pouch or a way to pack it into its own pocket.

This Eddie Bauer jacket earned top scores during our testing, and for good reason. It’s the kind of jacket that’s perfect for cool summer nights, whether at home or on your travels. While it’s fairly thick, it’s not as bulky as a winter puffer, making it ideal for camping and hiking when you need an extra midweight layer.

Filled with real down that’s responsibly sourced and made with recycled nylon and polyester, this jacket packs down super small into a backpack and quickly de-wrinkles upon pulling it out. After six months of testing, we think it's perfect for shoulder season when the days are warmer, but it gets cold at night. We also found it fashionable and unlikely to go out of style in the coming years. While this trusty Eddie Bauer jacket doesn’t come with an extra bag to stuff it into and can’t be folded into its own pocket, it’s extremely comfortable, made with real down feathers, and has a classic style. 

The Details: S to XXL regular and tall | 650-fill premium down, recycled nylon and polyester | 9.6 ounces

Travel + Leisure / Matt Ford

Best Down Jacket

L.l.bean ultralight 850 down hooded jacket.

It’s a warm, high-quality down jacket that can handle drizzly weather.

It’s on the expensive side and it’s slightly heavier than others on our list.

The big issue with down is that it isn’t built for wet weather – it often clumps and loses its insulating advantage. Freeport, Maine’s L.L.Bean changes all that by filling this jacket with specially treated down that stays dry over 10 times longer than untreated down. The down is also 850 fill, meaning it’s more densely packed than many other down jackets so it’ll keep you more insulated and warm. Throughout our six-month tests, we didn't expect this to keep us as warm as it did, and were pleasantly surprised. Plus, it still looks good as new.

We found this jacket to be of excellent quality overall and very soft to the touch. We loved the pull cord in the hood, too, and found it very packable — being able to fold it into the left pocket to form a 9 x 12-inch pouch is a highly useful feature for travelers.

The Details: S to XXXL, regular and tall | 850-fill water-repellent down, recycled nylon | 15.68 ounces

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Best for Hiking

Mountain hardwear kor stasis jacket.

It’s a jacket that feels like a sweater, but more insulated.

After six months of regular use, the jacket does show a few small stains.

This layer is the anti-jacket jacket. It’s extremely durable and comfortable — and feels as if you aren’t wearing a jacket at all. The chest pocket for storing a phone and other small belongings is convenient and the cuffs around the wrist are a nice touch as well.

We used this jacket for a cooler-temperature hike or even for running as it allows for full mobility. It’s great for traveling since it packs down super small and only took up a fraction of a pocket in our backpack. After wearing the coat almost daily for six months, it is still in good condition and likely to last for seasons to come.

The Details: S to XL | Fabric: 100 percent nylon; Insulation: 60 percent recycled polyester, 40 percent polyester | 12.5 ounces

Travel + Leisure / Lukas Smith

Best for Running

Lululemon warp light packable jacket.

This versatile jacket is perfect for a variety of occasions.

We wish it came in more vibrant colors.

Built for taking your workouts outside, the Canadian yoga brand has made an excellent packable running jacket. We found it to be super versatile and remarkably insulated, despite being so thin. After using the coat for running up to two times per week for six months, we're happy to report that it does not retain odor. The pockets are convenient and we loved having a slot in the back during our runs. The jacket packs down well and its material features four-way stretch and sweat-wicking and anti-odor capabilities, making it perfect for sweaty activities.

In terms of style, we felt comfortable wearing this jacket everywhere from around town to the trail, and even on the Maid of the Mist boat ride in Niagara Falls — it’s water-repellent and there’s a hood to keep out drizzles. This jacket could also easily work as a base layer for when it’s colder outside. 

The Details: XS to XXL | Fabric: 91 percent recycled polyester, 9 percent elastane; Mesh: 89 percent nylon, 11 percent elastane; Back mesh: 53 percent recycled polyester; 43 percent elastomultiester, 4 percent elastane

Travel + Leisure / Mike Navarro

Best for Snow Sports

Rab alpine down jacket.

It’s thicker and more insulated than many on this list.

It might be too heavy of a layer depending on your activity.

For colder-weather adventurers, this Rab jacket is wonderful. It’s made of warm, water-resistant down as well as high-quality polyamide including nylon. We loved the brimmed hood, which kept us as comfortable as if we were wearing a hat. It’s very easy to pack down and comes with an extra sack to stuff into.

While expensive, in terms of quality, insulation, and comfort, we feel that it’s certainly worth the price. After wearing the coat daily for six months, it shows no signs of wear and tear and has proven to be a durable winter coat.

The Details: XXS to XXL | Fabric: recycled 30D nylon Pertex Quantum, 50g/m² with DWR; Lining: recycled 20D nylon, 38g/m²; Insulation: recycled 700 fill-power down Nikwax hydrophobic (water-resistant) finish; Composition: 100 percent recycled polyamide outer with 100 percent recycled polyamide lining | 16.5 ounces

Travel + Leisure / John Somerall

Best for Transitional Weather

Decathlon forclaz men's mt100 hooded down puffer jacket.

It’s an excellent down jacket at a shockingly low price for the value.

The zipper is a bit finicky. 

For years, outdoor gear was expensive, making it inaccessible to the vast majority of us who are curious about the outdoors but aren’t looking to spend our entire paychecks on gear. Then came Decathlon. The French retailer has proven that you don’t have to be flush to own high-quality gear. Case in point, this down puffer jacket. 

Made from warm, responsibly sourced 800-fill down and a water-repellent polyamide shell, it’s built for temperatures between 23 and 41 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal as an extra layer for your travels. The jacket stuffs into its left-hand pocket, which seems to magically expand to fit the rest of the material, and the jacket feels very durable overall. Even after six months of wearing the coat for daily activities including yard work and walking the dog, plus washing in a standard washer and dryer, it still looks new. It’s comfortable, too, and we definitely see it being a go-to for our next camping trip or hike.

The Details: S to XXXL | 800-fill down and polyamide | 10.2 ounces

Travel + Leisure / Dominick Santise

Best for Layering

Patagonia nano puff jacket.

It’s surprisingly warm for how thin it is.

It doesn’t come with a hood, though you can pay a bit more for the hooded version. 

Patagonia needs no introduction. The height of sustainability and corporate responsibility, the brand is a reliable choice for travel gear, and this synthetic puffer jacket is no exception. Remarkably thin, we found that the Nano Puff kept us warm in windy, cooler temperatures. The absence of bulk makes it stand out as a base layer for activities like skiing and mountaineering, and while you could reasonably wear it for a run, it isn’t very breathable. 

The quilted pattern isn’t just a classic look, it’s also meant to prevent rips from spreading, and this jacket has a great system of pockets, including a zippered chest pocket that duals as a packable sack. Also since it’s synthetic instead of down, you don’t have to worry about getting it wet, and you can keep it packed down for longer without risking damage. Still, after six months of use its puffiness remains nice and plush, and it has kept us warm on milder days.

For those who want a hood, Patagonia also sells the Nano Puff Hoody version for a bit more.

The Details: XS to 3XL | Recycled polyester | 11.9 ounces

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Most Breathable

Cotopaxi capa hybrid insulated hooded jacket.

Style meets functionality in this convenient jacket.

After six months of use, we noticed the zips in the side pockets snag on the fabric frequently.

This synthetic jacket is stylish and functional. Bright colors combinations like wine/blue violet and mezcal/sunset are irresistible — but there’s even more to love about this packable jacket than style alone. The mix of a nylon shell and polyester/spandex sleeves make it super comfy and it fits snuggly on the arms. It’s also very breathable due to side meshing, and the sleeves feature convenient thumbholes.

This jacket is insulated with a recycled synthetic polyester material, PrimaLoft Gold P.U.R.E. (Produced Using Reduced Emissions), which is stretchy and temperature-regulating. And we love that it packs into the chest pocket, though we did find it simpler to toss it in a tote bag for easy grabbing. It also is still in great condition after multiple wash cycles.

The Details: S to XXL | Shell and lining: 40 grams recycled 20D ripstop nylon with PFC-free DWR; Side panels and sleeves: 200 grams 97 percent recycled polyester, 3 percent spandex; Insulation: 40 grams PrimaLoft Gold P.U.R.E. (recycled synthetic polyester) | 24 ounces

Travel + Leisure / Amandeep Singh

Best Waterproof

Rab phantom waterproof pull-on jacket.

It weighs next to nothing and, after six months of testing, it still looks relatively new.

There are no pockets.

The technology that British clothing brand Rab has put into this jacket is astonishing. While reducing water to droplets that slide right off, it’s paper-thin and at just 3 ounces, it feels like you’re wearing little more than a (comfortable) plastic bag. Since it’s so thin, it’s terrific for running and we found packing it to be a breeze — it rolls into a sack no bigger than a soda can. You can also roll the hood down when you don’t need it thanks to a nifty stash loop that we can’t believe is not more common. Speaking of the hood, it’s very well-designed with a wired brim to keep the rain off your face.

Note that this jacket has virtually no insulation, nor any pockets, and that it’s on the pricier side. But we see it as an ideal shell for the active person who wants to keep dry on all their outdoor adventures.

The Details: S to XL | 40 grams 7D Pertex® Shield 2.5 liters | 3 ounces

Travel + Leisure / Henry Yung

Best Splurge

Mountain hardware ghost whisperer 2 hoody.

It keeps you warmer than other options without sacrificing a light weight.

After six months of wearing, we've noticed some minor stains developing on the outer fabric.

We were very impressed with this jacket in all aspects, including packability (it stuffs into its pocket), warmth, weight, mobility, and comfort. The higher 800 down fill means that it can trap more air, thus ensuring greater insulation. Plus, it’s insanely stylish, perfect for everything from walking around town to hanging out at base camp. 

The Details: S to XXL | Recycled and non-recycled nylon, 800-fill RDS®-certified down | 8.8 ounces

Most Versatile

Vuori venture track jacket.

After near-constant use (and multiple washes) over our six-month testing period, it is still in perfect condition.

There’s no hood and it’s not adjustable.

If you don’t like the feel of a puffer, check out Vuori’s soft and comfy Venture Track Jacket. This jacket manages to pack up to roughly the size of a mango without looking wrinkled when it’s unfurled. Wear it around town or to the bar, then scrunch it up and put it in the central console of your car, a bag, or even a pocket of a pair of cargo shorts. It’s also great for cooler weather workouts, and if it gets sweaty you can simply throw it in the wash (on cold) with like colors.

Note that this jacket isn’t built for temperatures cooler than 50 degrees, and the cuffs don’t have much stretch, so we couldn’t push them up to stay on our forearm or above the elbow on their own. However, this works as a great layering piece to wear above or below other pieces in your travel wardrobe.

The Details: S to XXL | 88 percent polyester, 12 percent elastane

Travel + Leisure / Michael Weisbaum

Best Wind Protection

L.l.bean primaloft packaway jacket.

It features ultra-lightweight, NASA-designed materials. 

The sleeves may not be long enough for taller testers.

This synthetic jacket deploys two state of the art technologies to make one fine product. One is Aerogel, a polymer and solvent mixture designed by NASA that’s one of the lightest solid materials ever created. The other is PrimaLoft Gold, an extremely light synthetic insulation. Along with a shell of recycled ripstop polyester, this jacket is extremely lightweight while keeping you warm and protected from the wind and rain. After regularly wearing the jacket for six months, it still looks brand new with no signs of wear and tear.

The Details: S to XXXL | Aerogel, PrimaLoft Gold (polyester fibers); Shell and lining: recycled ripstop polyester | 13.44 ounces

Travel + Leisure / Carolyn Malcoun

Best for Everyday

Outdoor research superstrand lt jacket.

Outdoor Research

It’s warmer than other similar styles.

After six months of use, some of the stitching is starting to unravel.

Outdoor Research’s SuperStrand LT is a top of the line packable jacket you can count on. We loved how light and warm it was, and it felt durable enough to last for years. We felt great wearing it around town over a thin sweater, though it’s easily warm enough to wear on its own. Since it’s insulated with down, it’s not waterproof, so be careful not to get it wet. If you do, a little drizzle will be okay. Note that this jacket does not come with a hood, so you’ll need to wear a hat in the cold.

The Details: S to XXXL | 700- to 800-fill down, ripstop nylon | 10 ounces

Travel + Leisure / Michal Hanover

Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Parka

It’s terrific quality for the price.

Some feathers may fly out.

Japanese retailer Uniqlo has made down accessible for many of us by keeping its packable parka affordable, and very warm. It packs down into a small bag that conveniently attaches to the inside of the jacket when you’re not using it, and we loved how warm it kept us on a cool night outside watching Friday Night Football. The jacket is one of the lightest we tested and wasn’t at all cumbersome to wear. After six months of testing, we found this to be the perfect option for leaving in your car or day pack for spontaneous needs.

An issue we encountered was that a couple of down feathers escaped while we were wearing it, and we also didn’t feel like the material was quite as durable as others we tried. 

The Details: XXS to 3XL | 750-fill down, nylon and polyester | 8 ounces

Travel + Leisure / Dan Samiljan

Most Durable

Carhartt storm defender packable jacket.

It’s rugged and very waterproof.

It isn’t breathable.

If you’re in the market for a durable packable jacket, consider this one from American workwear brand Carhartt. This jacket is tough and exceptionally waterproof, even under heavy rain. It’s much lighter than you’d expect for something so durable and it packs up into its left pocket. 

One thing we really loved is that it comes with velcro cuff straps and a big hood that kept water from dripping onto our face. It also kept us dry in rain and snow throughout our six months of tests. The price is right as well.

The Details: S to 4XL; Tall: L to 2XL | Nylon | 15.7 ounces

Travel + Leisure / Cait Knoll

Other Packable Jackets We Liked

A few of the other jackets we tested didn’t quite make our list of the very best, but were still worth an honorable mention. 

Coolibar Men’s Arcadian Packable Sunblock Jacket UPF 50+ : We loved how light and breathable this jacket was, but it felt too thin and not warm enough to be as versatile as we would have liked. 

Eddie Bauer Men’s RainPac Anorak : This jacket is a terrific water- and windproof shell that packs into a neat travel backpack. Unfortunately, the strings of the packable backpack felt uncomfortable when we put it on.

We tested firsthand the best packable jackets on the market for ease of use, design, comfort, and value over a three-month period. After unboxing, we tried the jackets on, tested out their zipper(s) and rated their comfortability and overall feel. We tested design features such as pockets, hood, and tightening cords. Then we tested the jackets’ packability by stuffing them into their sack, pocket, or directly into a bag or backpack. After packing them, we unfurled them to check whether they came out wrinkled or not (most came out wrinkled, but flattened out relatively quickly). Then we put the jackets into circulation in our daily routines for six months to assess their value and durability.

Tips for Buying Packable Jackets

Look for something lightweight.

The idea behind a packable jacket is that it’s something you can pull out when you need it, and won’t mind carrying around in your backpack or luggage. So make sure it’s as lightweight as possible so it won’t add extra bulk to your travel gear and won’t be cumbersome to wear while you’re out and about.

Consider your activities

The jackets on this list are meant to keep you warm and pack down small. After that, features vary widely. Not all are waterproof or windproof, and many aren’t breathable enough to wear for high-intensity exercise like running. If you want a jacket for activities that involve sweating, look for something that’s breathable by checking for venting and materials that wick away moisture. If general warmth or an extra lightweight layer is what you’re looking for, you’ll want to look for different features more suited to your needs.

Size up if you plan on layering

Most of these jackets fit snugly to the body, allowing you to layer a rain shell over them, but if you plan to wear layers underneath — such as a fleece jacket —consider getting a size larger than you usually do. Many packable jackets are inherently lighter weight to account for wearing more layers on top or underneath.

Many packable jackets come with an extra bag to easily pack into or they’ll fold up into one of their own pockets. A hoodie can also act as a way to pack it – simply fold in the arms and roll it into the hood. After you pack it, the jacket will likely come out wrinkled, but it should pop back into shape after you wear it a bit.

A packable down or synthetic jacket like those listed above are best for spring, fall, or cool summer nights, as well as for trekking or camping. We recommend adding an extra layer like a rain shell on top and/or a sweater underneath to keep you warmer.

Down, made from the soft feathers of ducks or geese, isn't made to get wet. If it does, it can clump up and fail to keep you warm. Many of the down jackets on this list can handle a light drizzle but aren’t fully waterproof, so make sure you have an umbrella or rain shell on hand as well. Or, if you don’t want to worry about wetness, opt for a packable jacket made from synthetic materials which can be just as light and warm.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, freelance journalist Joel Balsam summarized reviews from our in-house testers and put them into context for this roundup. He also did his own research and added his own insights from experience gathered from more than a decade of full-time travel.

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13 Travel Jackets for Your Next Getaway

Arrive in style

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

When it comes to traveling, it’s always better to be overprepared, especially when it comes to outerwear. The best travel jackets aren’t fussy—you want something that won’t crumple too badly if you have to use it as a pillow for a mid-trip nap. But an elevated travel jacket can also be the piece that pulls together a cozy on-the-go look, adding some structure and style to your sweats.

Material also tops her list of concerns. A travel jacket can experience wear and tear as it’s stuffed in a travel tote or run through security, so it has to be meticulously made. Options from durability-minded brands like Patagonia are perfect for the rugged traveler, while a luxe option from the likes of Khaite or Miu Miu is worthy of your more decadent getaways.

Burberry Grosgrain-Trimmed Quilted Shell Jacket

For a long flight or bus ride, you’ll want a soft, squishy jacket that can double as a pillow if the need arises. This quilted jacket can be easily packed, layered, or worn solo depending on the temperature.

Sizes: XS–XL

Materials: 100% polyamide

Blazé Milano Sahariana Nariida Maya

For travel, Pinardi suggests a denim blazer with a matching pair of jeans for a comfortable and put-together look. Of this blazer, she says, “It fits for every single occasion, from a dinner out with friends with a more elegant look to running errands with leggings and a pair of sneakers.”

Sizes: 00–IV

Materials: 100% cotton

The Row Atis Coat

To avoid paying fees for overweight luggage, you may occasionally need to pile on all the layers you can. This oversize style from the Row is not only soft and comfortable, but also big enough to fit a few items underneath.

Sizes: XS–L

Materials: 95% wool, 5% cashmere

Ganni Off-White Drop Shoulder Jacket

If the plan is to swap your sweats for a dressy look post-flight, this jacket easily transitions from casual to more formal occasions. Pack a skirt or trousers and a button-up in your carry-on, and you’ll be good to go.

Sizes: XS–3XL

Materials: 60% recycled wool, 40% polyester

Patagonia Women’s Nano Puff Hoody

This hooded jacket from Patagonia is so easy to fold into a travel pack. Throw it in your carry-on before you leave the house, and pull it out only once the AC on your flight is blasting.

Sizes: XS–XXL

Materials: 100% recycled polyester

Everlane The ReNew Anorak

This durable anorak serves as an outer layer that will help keep wind and water at bay—useful for a vacation with rain on the forecast.

Sizes: XXS–XL

Reviewers say: “I bought this for an upcoming trip to Iceland, for my less adventurous city activities. It’s oversized and slouchy and cool, but also practical. Lots of room for layers underneath but also looks good without them.”

Toteme Scarf-Neckline Felt Jacket

It’s a scarf! It’s a jacket! This design from Toteme is not only a showstopper, it’s also versatile. You can wrap the scarf detail around your neck for added warmth, or wear it open when you start to heat up.

Sizes: 32–44

Materials: 88% wool, 12% polyester

Reformation Veda Allen Jacket

A leather jacket is a wardrobe essential, especially when you’re traveling. It’s tough enough to handle whatever wear and tear your day might have in store. Once at your destination, it’s a style you can break out for daytime strolls or nights out.

Materials: Leather

Barbour Beadnell Waxed Cotton Jacket

British label Barbour is known for making workhorse jackets for outdoor activities. This wax-coated cotton jacket is a mid-weight style that you can layer with a down jacket or sweater, depending on the weather.

Sizes: 0–18

Materials: 100% cotton with waxed coating

Reviewers say: “I was waiting to write a review on this jacket until after I got back from my yearly autumnal visit to New York. Now that I’ve returned, I can say this jacket was perhaps one of my best investments yet. The temperature ranged from 45-65 and we experienced rain and sun alike. I wore this jacket during nature hikes in the rain and windy walks on the beach. It performed outstandingly well.”

Moncler Tibre Quilted Padded Glossed-Shell Down Jacket

If you’re headed for the slopes in Aspen or the Alps, a warm jacket is a must. This down style is one you can comfortably wear on the plane, but also break out once you’re on the mountain.

Sizes: 00–5

Materials: 100% polyester

A.P.C. Thais Jacket

A casual weekend away requires considered packing; you’ve got to keep things light. This wool-blend jacket is a mid-weight style that will keep you warm whether you’re driving or taking a train. The neutral-gray hue can be styled a plethora of ways.

Sizes: XXS–3XL

Materials: 70% wool, 30% polyamide

Miu Miu Garment-Dyed Gabardine Blouson Jacket

Leave it to Miu Miu to create a cropped jacket that’s cute enough for breaking out at a fashion show, and comfortable enough for wearing through an entire red-eye. If you’re headed to Fashion Week, this may be the jacket you want to wear on your way to Milan.

Sizes: 36–50 IT

Materials: Cotton

Alex Mill Mel Jacket

New York–based label Alex Mill is known for practical pieces with a slightly preppy twist. This cotton jacket is relatively lightweight, making it easy to throw in your bag or over your shoulders if you’re not immediately in need of putting it on.

Materials: 50% recycled cotton, 50% cotton

Reviewers say: “I stalked this jacket for months and it finally came back in stock on the color and size I wanted and I love it! It’s slightly lighter weight than I anticipated, but that almost makes it better for layering on the wild New York fall days. I like the herringbone stitch and corduroy details.”

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11 BEST Travel Jackets [2023 Guide!]

Although we may all dream of travelling constantly in bright, warm sunshine just like in the movies, the reality is we’re more than likely to need a jacket at some point during our travels. Parts of Europe can get chilly at pretty much any time of year, while a short rain shower is possible almost anywhere at any time. And that’s before we’ve even mentioned destinations known for their cold climes like the Rockies or Russia in winter!

So you’re definitely going to need a travel jacket. But how do you go about finding the best travel jacket for you? Simple! Read on. We’ve done all the hard work for you, identifying the very best of travel jackets from some of the globe’s top brands, whatever your specific requirements!

Quick Summary: The Best Travel Jackets

#1 –  Baubax travel jacket

Overall best travel jacket.

Available in four different styles, for both men and women, the team behind the Baubax travel jacket have managed to incorporate a whole series of unique features that make it our overall recommendation of best travel jacket.

Forget having detachable hoods marked out as a huge leap forward (and available in the blazer and bomber jacket styles of the Baubax), this jacket is ergonomic and cleverly designed yet includes such innovative ideas as a built-in inflatable neck pillow that is perfect for frequent travelers.

There are also earphone holders, stretchy neoprene drinks pocket, another pocket for that fits a 10” tablet, eye-mask, gloves, and hand-warming pockets lined with a great feeling fleece!

• For men and women
• Multiple designs and colors
• Incorporation of 15 features
• Perfect for travel
• Hood only on blazer and bomber designs
• Small-running sizes
• No zipper shield
• No packing pouch

Is the Baubax travel jacket for you?

This is the travel jacket every traveler has been waiting for. Now there’s no need to stuff the pockets of your current travel jacket with all you need while out and about – because the Baubax’s 15 unique and incorporated features mean they are already there!

Editor’s Note – Have you checked out our post about the most best rain pants?

#2 –  Columbia Mighty Lite Hybrid

Best travel jacket for men.

This men’s travel jacket by Columbia has a number of phenomenal advantages as a travel jacket. Like the North Face Thermoball, it is both lightweight and packs down to an almost unbelievable size, two factors that obviously can’t be overstated in importance when traveling.

But the Mighty Lite Hybrid also boasts omni-heat reflective thermal insulation that will bounce your body heat right back at you to keep you snug and warm.

The Mighty Lite Hybrid also has both outer and inner pockets, both sets of which are zippered for extra security and are large enough to fit a passport, cellphone and smaller valuables or other important items you don’t want to leave in baggage.

• Lightweight
• Small when packed
• Reflective thermal insulation
• Inner and outer zippered pockets
• For men only
• Limited color range
• High neck line

Is the Columbia Mighty Lite Hybrid for you?

A great all-round travel jacket, the Columbia Mighty Lite Hybrid ensures it will keep you warm with its reflective thermal insulation technology while still managing to be lightweight and packing down to a really small size. The zippered outer and inner pockets also mean small valuables will remain out of harm’s way throughout.

Editor’s Note – You can also check out our article about the best Travel Towels.

#3 –  Columbia Kruser Ridge

Best travel jacket for women.

The Kruser Ridge is a dedicated women’s travel jacket from Columbia, meaning you can be sure its been specifically designed with the female form and needs in mind. The svelte and slimline look is not only stylish enough to get you through a day’s travel without looking out of place, but it is also water and wind resistant.

What’s more, the Kruser Ridge contains stain repelling technology to make sure this jacket remains looking its best for as long as possible while on the road. Whether you’re traveling on a city break, or out into some of the world’s wilder places, you’ll be glad to have chosen the Columbia Kruser Ridge!

• Stain repellent
• Water and wind resistant
• For women only
• Not as insulating as other jackets
• No zipper sheild
• Smaller pockets

Is the Columbia Kruser Ridge for you?

If you’re a woman searching for a travel jacket with not just a fine look and style, but one that will also protect you from the wind and rain, then the Columbia Kruser Ridge is definitely the travel jacket for you. Specifically designed to the female form, this jacket will see you right wherever in the world you may find yourself.

P.S. –  Take a look at our AMAZING guide to the best Travel Yoga Mat

#4 –  Fjallraven Greenland

Best travel jacket for europe.

The Swedish brand of Fjallraven (best known perhaps for their uber cool backpacks) is no stranger from the somewhat temperamental nature of European weather. As a result, the Greenland jacket has rightly become a classic!

The fully updated versions on the market today are treated with long-lasting repellants to keep rain and wind at bay while being made with recycled, ethically-sourced cotton and polyester.

There’s a hood that stows neatly into the collar for when it rains, and a flat over the main zipper to stop heating escaping from this point. The Greenland also includes four popper closing exterior pockets and an internal pocket – more than enough room for most travelers.

• Pack away hood
• Zipper cover
• Plenty of pockets
• Wind resistant
• Cotton and polyester materials
• Water resistant rather than water proof
• Non-adjustable cuffs

Is the Fjallraven Greenland for you?

The Greenland by Fjallraven offers a great blend of practically and style for anyone in need of a travel jacket for Europe. A brand ever-conscious of its global footprint, the materials in this jacket are ethically sourced and recycled wherever possible, but this doesn’t take away from its classic looks. The four large front pockets are also a really useful feature for anyone traveling to Europe.

Editor’s Note  – You can also check out our article about the best Travel Strollers.

#5 –  Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer

Best men’s lightweight travel jacket.

Claiming to be the lightest fully featured down jacket in the world, how could we not opt for Mountain Hardware’s Ghost Whisperer as our best men’s lightweight travel jacket? With a look that reminds us of motorcycle leathers, it has a useful high neck to keep the wind and rain out.

Despite being incredibly lightweight, the Ghost Whisperer is still waterproof and windproof, and even manages to pack down into its own zippered pocket! Another feature that makes this the best men’s lightweight travel jacket is the addition of a loop so it can be attached to a bag super easily when not required.

• Just 7.2 oz
• The lightest travel jacket around
• Loop for easy attachment
• Some may not like the style
• Integrated hood can’t be adjusted
• Cuffs aren’t adjustable

Is the Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer for you?

Why wouldn’t this fine choice for a lightweight men’s travel jacket be for you? It has everything we think you need to stay warm and dry when traveling, but at just a little over 7 oz in weight. The ability to pack the jacket into its own zippered pocket is a very helpful feature, as is the loop that allows for simple attachment to backpacks, daypacks, or belts.

Recommended Article – have you checked out our article about the incredible Travel Money Belts?

We are obsessed with backpacks – we’ve tried them all! And our favourite carry on backpack in the WORLD is the Nomatic Travel Backpack.  This backpack has revolutionized the backpack industry and will change the way you travel forever :) Check it out here!

#6 –  North Face Aconcagua

Best women’s lightweight travel jacket.

Needless to say given the category, the North Face Aconcagua is a very lightweight travel jacket that we think women will really appreciate. Like the Mountain Hardware’s Ghost Whisperer, the Aconcagua has a nice high neck to prevent water and cold air from entering the protective shield of warmth the jacket creates despite its minimal weight.

But the Aconcagua also includes elasticated sleeve cuffs to prevent the same thing happening via your arms. The pockets are zippered, making sure what kit or valuables you need to carry on your person are as snug as you are.

• Incredibly lightweight
• Elasticated wrists
• Zippered pockets
• Doesn’t pack down
• No chest pocket (women’s version)

Is the North Face Aconcagua for you?

The North Face’s Aconcagua is a great lightweight women’s travel jacket, and there’s nothing that would stop us buying this jacket ourselves! Not only does the high neck protect from wind and rain, but the arms are protected in a similar way thanks to elasticated cuffs, while zippered pockets clinch the deal.

Check this out! Our complete guide to the most awesome Tandem Kayaks!

#7 –  Columbia Pike Lake

Best cheap travel jacket.

The Columbia Pike Lake jacket manages to combine great functionality and decent looks with an affordable and budget-friendly pricing. This is no half-hearted travel jacket since it’s construction not only includes the protection of a polyester shell, but also a Microtex Light lining, and a panel aimed at reinforcing the shoulder area for extra strength.

It has the ability to be used as an extra layering of clothing even at altitude thanks to its wide sections full of synthetic insulation and a thermally-reflective lining.

• Water resistant
• Adjustable cuffs
• Microtex Lining
• Synthetic insulation
• Polyester rather than natural shell
• Not fully waterproof
• Limited insulation compared to other brands and models

Is the Columbia Pike Lake for you?

With versions for both men and women, the Columbia Pike Lake jacket is a very good option at the lower end of the market. However, the Pike Lake will suit more than just those people with a limited budget to hand, and would be a great first or replacement travel jacket given its heat insulating properties and well thought out design!

Editor’s Recommendation – You should definitely check out our guide on the most awesome Packing Cubes!

#8 –  Columbia Bugaboo Interchange

Best multipocket travel jacket.

It may be another travel jacket from the team at Columbia, but we’re just loving what they’re creating at the moment! The Bugaboo is not just a multipocket travel jacket, it’s a 3-in-1 multipocket travel jacket. What does this mean? The Bugaboo is made up of three different layers that can be used in combination or separately depending on weather conditions.

Firstly, there’s the polyester fleece liner and then a nylon liner, which provides warmth while still being breathable. These are then followed by the weather-proof nylon shell. There are not only zippered hand pockets but exterior chest pockets too, as well as an interior pocket for valuables and a media pocket, making it really easy for you to stay connected despite traveling.

• 3-in-1 layering
• Zippered external pockets
• Chest pockets
• Internal secure pocket
• Extra layers to carry if not wearing
• Higher end price
• Quite bulky

Is the Columbia Bugaboo Interchange for you?

With its separable three-layer design, the Columbia Bugaboo Interchange is just about the only travel jacket you’ll ever need. And with more pockets than most other travel jackets out there on the market, covering both the external and internal face of the jacket, there are plenty of options for those who like to have smaller items of kit and valuables close to hand.

Recommended Article – Take a look at our AMAZING guide to the best  Baby Carriers for Hiking

#9 –  Arc’teryx Beta LT Hybrid

Best travel waterproof jacket.

Like the majority of travel jackets on our list, the Arc’teryx Beta LT Hybrid is available in models for both men and women. Not only is the shaped classic styling attractive to look at, but the Beta LT Hybrid also boasts a shell that is not just water resistant, but waterproof, keeping you dry whatever the weather!

The attached hood keeps your head dry without reducing visibility, while velcro cuff straps help you keep water from running up your sleeve whatever activity you’re undertaking. Flexible enough so that it doesn’t inhibit movement, the Beta LT Hybrid is also breathable, windproof, and will last and last.

• Integrated hood
• Fewer pockets than the Bugaboo
• Limited colors for men

Is the Arc’teryx Beta LT Hybrid for you?

If you’re looking for a travel jacket that is the best in its field at keeping you warm and dry, you should look no further than the Arc’teryx Beta LT Hybrid. Amazingly breathable and flexible enough that there’s little movement constraint, it is also waterproof and windproof, with an integrated hood that won’t stop you seeing what’s up ahead.

Editor’s Note – You can also check out our article about  the best Travel Hammocks.

#10 –  Patagonia Nano Puff

Best travel jacket for winter.

The small insulated sections that build to form the Patagonia Nano Puff are great at keeping heat in, and the cold weather out, making it an ideal choice as a winter travel jacket. The high neck keeps wind, rain, and cold temperatures from slipping in and heat from leaking out, while the waist also includes a hem which is adjustable for the same purpose.

Heavy duty zippers on the pockets and opening stop the loss of heat by this means, while the whole jacket comes in at a very impressive 12 oz, so if the winter weather does turn unusually warm you’re not left lugging a heavy jacket around with you!  Luckily, we’ve compiled this guide of the best Travel Daypacks to help you before traveling!

• Men’s and women’s versions
• Adjustable hem
• No zipper shielding
• Less contemporary look

Is the Patagonia Nano Puff for you?

If you’re after a solid and trustworthy travel jacket for winter that isn’t going to weigh you down the Patagonia Nano Puff is definitely for you. The high neck, zippers, and adjustable waist all ensure you’re as protected from the winter cold as possible, thereby maintaining that snug feeling brought about by the insulation for as long as possible.

Recommended Article –  Take a look at our AMAZING guide to the best Hiking sandals

#11 –  Outdoor Research Helium II

Best of the rest.

If weight is an important prerequisite in choosing a travel jacket than the Outdoor Research Helium II is another worthy contender. Weighing under six and a half ounces, it is incredibly light and capable of being packed down to smaller than a paperback book inside its own pouch/internal pocket.

It has a layered laminate form with seam-taped joins to ensure its as waterproof as can be. Its zippers are also specifically included for their resistivity to water, making the Helium II additionally watertight.

• Fully waterproof
• Several color options
• Hood blocks visibility a little
• Limited insulation properties
• Single internal pocket
• Low neck line

Is the Outdoor Research Helium II for you?

Those seeking a lightweight travel jacket that packs down really small will really appreciate the existence of the Helium II! Small enough inside its own pouch to fit into a trouser pocket or be forgotten about in a daypack until it’s called upon, this jacket will keep you dry in even the heaviest of downpours.

Recommended Article – have you checked out our article about the Best Carry on Backpacks?

Final thoughts!

It’s pretty much guaranteed that wherever in the world your future travels take you, within state boundaries or halfway across the globe, in all likelihood you’re going to need a travel jacket.

With so much to consider – weight, insulation, water resistivity and so on – its extremely important to have a good understanding of what each travel jacket can and can’t do. Here we’ve set out that information for you in a (hopefully!) simple and easy to understand way, so that you can purchase the travel jacket that’s perfect for you and your needs both now and in the future!

Editor’s Note  – No matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have  great travel insurance . We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and can say without a doubt that World Nomads is the absolute best (and most affordable!). Fill out the form below to get a quote.

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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Best Lightweight Jackets for Travel (For Men and Women)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Updated: November 2023. Originally published: April 2019.

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

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

What to Look For in a Travel Jacket

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

1. Staying dry

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

Why is this important?

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

2. Protection against the wind

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

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

3. Breathable is more important than waterproof  

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

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

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

4. Insulate and keep enough body heat

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

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

Why is this important? Warmth.

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

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

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

BONUS: look and feel matters.

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

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

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

Best Travel Jackets for Men and Women

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

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

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

Best travel jackets and hoodies for women

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

Best travel jackets and hoodies for men

• Check out the REI Co-op Hyperaxis Fleece Jacket 2.0 for Men
• Check out the Arc’teryx Kyanite Hoodie for Men
• Check out the Patagonia R2 TechFace Hoodie for Men

Best Lightweight Rain Jacket For Travel

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

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

Best lightweight travel rain jackets for women

• Check out the Patagonia Houdini Jacket for Women
• Check out the REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket for Women
• Check out the Black Diamond StormLine Stretch Rain Shell for Women

Best lightweight travel rain jackets for men

• Check out the Patagonia Houdini Zip-front Jacket for Men
• Check out the Outdoor Research Helium II Men’s Rain Jacket
• Check out the REI Co-op XeroDry GTX Jacket

Best packable down jacket

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

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

Best lightweight travel down jackets for women

• Check out the REI Co-op Magma 850 Down Hoodie
• Check out the Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket for Women
• Check out the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer/2 Down Hoodie

Best lightweight travel down jacket for men

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

Finals tips about the best light jacket for travel

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

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

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

You might also like these posts:

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

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Ultimate Guide To the Best Travel Jacket for Women

FASHION , Sweaters & Jackets , Travel Clothing

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

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

Best Travel Jacket Women Pack for All Seasons

Table of contents.

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

How to Choose the Best Travel Jackets for Women

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Organizational Pockets

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Packability

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

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

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

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

Extra Features

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

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

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

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

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

Other Factors When Selecting a Travel Jacket Womens Style

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

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

The SCOTTeVest Chloe Hoodie has 14 hidden pockets!

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

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

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

Best Travel Jacket With Pockets

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

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

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

Shop Sizes S-XXL: SCOTTeVEST | Amazon

SCOTTeVEST Rhonda Multi Pocket Travel Jacket  

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

Shop Sizes XS-4XL: Amazon

Outdoor Ventures Multi Pocket Jacket for Travelling

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

Shop Sizes XS-5XL: SCOTTeVEST | Amazon

SCOTTeVEST Windbreaker

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

Best Travel Rain Jacket

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

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

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Eddie Bauer

Eddie Bauer Charly Jacket

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

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

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Amazon | Columbia

Columbia Arcadia II Jacket

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

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

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Amazon

Cole Haan Packable Travel Jacket

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

Comes in sizes XS-3XL .

Best Travel Winter Jacket

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

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

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

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Amazon   

Columbia Carson Pass II Jacket

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

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

Available in s izes XS-3X .

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Eddie Bauer

Eddie Bauer CirrusLite 2.0 Down Parka

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

You can buy this in sizes XS-3X !

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon

The North Face Metropolis Parka

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

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

Best Travel Wool Jacket

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

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

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

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Nordstrom

Sam Edelman Notch Collar Wool Blend Jacket

Bundle up in this beautiful wool blend jacket from Sam Edelman , which combines a classic look with tons of comfort. The fabric is soft, lined, and warm, and it’s a perfect option for layering when the temps really drop. The brown color is timeless, but it comes in a range of fun, bright colors if you’re looking for a bold addition to your travel wardrobe! 

Grab this in sizes XS-XXL !

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince

Quince Merino Wool Shirt Jacket

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

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

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

London Fog Double Breasted Peacoat

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

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

Best Travel Trench Coat

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

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

Eddie Bauer Girl On The Go Trench Coat

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

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

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

J. Crew Icon Trench Coat

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

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

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

Columbia Pardon My Trench Rain Jacket

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

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

Best Travel Fleece Jacket

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

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

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

Shop Sizes 0-20:   Lululemon

Lululemon Scuba Hoodie

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

Available in sizes 0-20 !

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

The North Face Osito Jacket

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

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

Quince SuperSoft Fleece Hoodie

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

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

Best Travel Vest

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

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

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Eddie Bauer

Eddie Bauer CirrusLite Down Vest

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

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Amazon | Columbia

Columbia Benton Springs Fleece Vest

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

32 Degrees Packable Insulated Vest

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

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

Best Lightweight Travel Jacket

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

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

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Wool&

Wool& Aspen Hoodie

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

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

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Nordstrom

Zella Restore Hoodie

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

Comes in adorable colors and sizes XS-XXL .

The North Face Shelbe Raschel Jacket

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

Get this in sizes XS-3XL .

Best Travel Denim Jacket

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

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

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

Shop Sizes XXXS-3X: J.Crew

J. Crew Classic Denim Jacket

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

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

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Amazon

Wrangler Stretch Denim Jacket

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

Riders by Lee Indigo Denim Jacket

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

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

Best Travel Blazer

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

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

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

Shop XXXS-3X: J.Crew

J. Crew Juliette Sweater Blazer

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

Shop Sizes 2-20: Eddie Bauer

Eddie Bauer Departure Blazer

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

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

Quince No-Button Knit Blazer

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

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

Best Travel Cardigan

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

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

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Nordstrom

Barefoot Dreams® CozyChic Lite® Long Cardigan   

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

Grab this in an array of colors and sizes XS-XL .

J. Crew Emelie Cotton Cardigan 

These J.Crew button down cardigan is the perfect accompaniment to a cute dress or with a long-sleeve tee and a pair of jeans and ankle boots for a casual day out sightseeing.

It falls at the hips and buttons all the way up to offer some coverage when it’s really chilly, yet the 100% cotton means you won’t sweat through. This makes it a wonderful summer travel jacket womens choice too! 

Comes in sizes XXXS-3X and tons of neutral and bold colors!

Shop Sizes 1X-3X: Nordstrom

Nic+Zoe Long Sleeve Simple Cardigan (Plus Size)

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

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

Best Travel Faux Leather Jacket

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

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

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

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Spanx

Spanx Faux Leather-Like Black Moto Jacket

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

BLANKNYC Faux Leather Moto Jacket

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

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

Shop Nordstrom: Sizes XS-XXL | Sizes 1X-3X

Levi’s Faux Leather Moto Jacket

Levi’s moto jacket is badass and stunning at the same time! It’s slim yet warm, and can easily be layered and styled up in any number of ways for your next travel adventure. Soft and stylish, this jacket is perfect for everything from a long flight to a night out at a rock club!

Available in a ton of colors and Sizes XS-XXL and Sizes 1X-3X !  

Best Travel Jackets for Women Comparison Chart

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

How to Pack Women’s Travel Jackets

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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36 comments.

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

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

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

Love all the ideas and products

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

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

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

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

I am really sorry about this.

Great review! I love mine.

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

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

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

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

Does this jacket have a hood?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are there any plus size options?

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

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

Hope this helps you in your search!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Awesome jackets and beautiful colors as well. Loved it!

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• 13 Best Jackets for Traveling
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Winter travel, chilly deserts, European summer towns, freezing rain, icy wind, pub crawls – there are a million scenarios when great travel jackets are awesome. If you’ve ever gotten off a flight and immediately regretted your packing choices, you need a good travel jacket. The best jackets for traveling, whether you’re headed to Europe or Asia, whether you’re looking for men’s or women’s ones, are packable and versatile. Not only are they ideal for multiple activities, but also they’re wrinkle-free, lightweight, and can be packed down small if need be. In fact, having a good jacket is as important as having the best backpack for traveling light . To that end, here are the 13 best traveling jackets, including men’s and women’s travel jackets for Europe.

Table of contents

Levi’s plus-size original trucker jacket, eddie bauer men’s cirruslite down jacket, escalier women’s faux leather jacket, champion men’s jacket.

• Eddie Bauer Wrap-Style Womens Summer Jacket

Orvis Pack-and-go Jacket

Patagonia nano puff, rab microlite alpine down jacket, cole haan rain jacket, amazon essentials lightweight water-resistant jacket, eddie bauer women’s departure travel blazer, arc’teryx cerium lt hoody, patagonia women’s better sweater fleece jacket, our verdict, weight and dimensions, what is a packable jacket, which type of jacket is most warm, what jacket to take to europe.

Best denim jacket. Now, who wouldn’t love a gorgeous denim jacket? That’s why the Levi’s Plus-Size Original Trucker Jacket is one of the best jackets for traveling. This timeless medium-wash denim jacket is a closet staple for good reason. For one, it fits just right. At the same time, it feels comfortable and soft from the get-go and doesn’t face wear and tear very quickly, either. It even comes in as many as 11 colorways, including the classic dark blue denim below. You also have the option of getting this style in rarer light blue and jet black. If that wasn’t enough, it even comes in 15 size options.

While this classic denim jacket doesn’t need an introduction, here’s a detailed review by The Jeans Blog .

• It can be worn with anything.
• It comes in multiple sizes and color options.
• The jacket is the perfect summer layering product.
• The sizing could be slightly off.

Best budget jacket. The Eddie Bauer Men’s CirrusLite Down Jacket is one of the best men’s travel jackets. There are a lot of things amazing about this jacket, starting with the fact that it comes in 17 solid colors. With offbeat colors like teal, China blue, merlot, and Junebug, there’s an option for every wardrobe. Secondly, it’s super lightweight, which makes it highly packable. At the same time, you can depend on the down filling to give you warmth while the higher neckline keeps the heat in. Finally, the shell has a DWR water-resistant finish that ensures moisture beads fall away.

Check out a detailed YouTube review of this jacket by Masguapoako .

• The zip pockets keep small essentials secure.
• This jacket is very versatile.
• For a price of less than 100 USD, it offers excellent value.
• The down lining might shed feathers.

If you’re looking for a versatile all-around jacket for traveling, then the Escalier Women’s Faux Leather Jacket is your best bet. What makes it one of the best jackets for traveling is that it’s a casual summer jacket that you can also layer when the chill hits. The open front design makes it more like a lightweight blazer than a bulky or heavy item. Moreover, this lovely jacket is available in multiple sizes from S through 2XL. The best bit? It even comes in multiple colors, including khaki, dark green, brown, light blue, and black. Now that’s one versatile jacket, isn’t it? It’s what makes it one of the best travel jackets for Europe as well as one of the best travel women’s jackets.

• This jacket is available in multiple colors and sizes.
• Its open front makes it perfect for layering.
• The suede might feel slightly hot in the middle of summer.

The Champion Men’s Jacket is one of the best men’s travel jackets. Despite the fact that this jacket is affordable and easy on the wallet, it’s lightweight and packed with performance features. Secondly, it’s made from 100% polyester, complete with a special waterproof coating. So, the wind-resistant and water-resistant materials come in handy whenever the weather takes a turn. But the best thing is that the entire jacket packs into a small hidden pocket. So, it can be carried evener easily in your bag for whenever the weather changes suddenly. Finally, you can even stash essentials in the kangaroo pocket, such as protein bars, phones, etc.

• The three-piece scuba hood has adjustable shock cords.
• The jacket bag even has a wrist strap for easy carrying.
• It comes in many colors.
• It doesn’t have any insulation.

Eddie Bauer Wrap-Style Womens Summer Jacket

Best wrap jacket. The Eddie Bauer Wrap-Style Womens Summer Jacket is not just one of the best jackets for traveling but is also one of the best travel jackets for Europe. Wrap-like thin summer jackets had their grand debut at music festivals such as Coachella, but now they’ve caught everyone’s fancy! They’re not only easy to bring along with you on the go, but they also look super cute and make for a light yet cozy layer. This Daisy blended cotton summer jacket is no exception and is multi-functional with a flowing design and large armholes. So, it can be worn and styled in many different ways.

• You can choose from five different colors. 
• It’s the perfect layering piece for travel.
• You can wear it across different seasons. 
• Some colors sell out quickly.

The Orvis Pack-and-go Jacket is one of the best men’s and women’s travel jackets you can find for heading to Europe. There’s a lot to love about this smart-looking packable jacket, which easily goes just about anywhere. That’s because it packs down really small into a stuff sack. Secondly, the stowaway hood rolls right into the zipped color when you’re not using it. Since the jacket is made from wind-resistant and water-resistant recycled polyester, it keeps moisture out. Additionally, the water-resistant coating on the inside acts as an extra barrier for keeping water out. Wrapping up the features is the inner sunglasses pocket that even comes with an attached cleaner.  

• The jacket comes in a ripple-inspired print as well as four versatile solid colors.
• There are two inner pockets to stash your valuables.
• It boasts a zipper closure.
• This needs to be layered when you want to use it in cold weather.

The Patagonia Nano Puff is not just one of the best Patagonia jackets for winter but also one of the best jackets for traveling. It’s also considered one of the best men’s travel jackets and one of the best mid-layers for hiking and for good measure. For one, it works as an all-season coat and scores high on versatility and usability. Secondly, the medium-weight 60-g PrimaLoft Gold Insulation works perfectly for layering under a hardshell for snowy days. During shoulder season, it works beautifully as a standalone jacket. Since the shell is made from lightweight, DWR-treated, 100% recycled polyester ripstop, it’s both windproof and water-resistant. What more could you want?

• The jacket has a broad temperature usability.
• It has an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio.
• It packs down to a small size.
• Some felt that the shell was too thin.

The Rab Microlite Alpine Down Jacket is one of the best men’s travel jackets. If you’re looking for a feature-rich travel jacket that costs less than 300 USD, then this one is it. Firstly, this slim-fitting packable jacket is made sustainably from 100% recycled polyamide. On the inside, the 700-Fill RDS hydrophobic, ethically sourced down is made from recycled materials. Moreover, its water-repellent treatment dries quickly and traps body heat, ensuring moisture beads up rather than permeating. A large zippered chest pocket and two zippered hand pockets allow convenient access for storage.

• It comes with a stuff sack included.
• The jacket comes in seven colors that range from neutral hues to standout ones.
• It offers warmth without adding bulk.
• The sizing runs small.

Most color options. Rain jackets are some of the most versatile best jackets for traveling, and the Cole Haan Rain Jacket is no exception. Firstly, it comes in a whopping 15 colors, including offbeat colors like indigo, mist, and eggplant. Secondly, this single-breasted rain jacket promises to keep you chic, dry, and warm, all at the same time. Since it’s made from a mix of 86% polyester and 14% nylon, it’s stylish and also works well as a lightweight spring jacket. Moreover, the cinching mechanism at the back fashions itself as a bow tie, which allows you to wear these even in the evenings. So, if you’re looking for a rain jacket that doesn’t look dowdy and folds into a pouch, then this is it. 

• It comes in as many as 15 sizes.
• It can be washed in the machine.
• The hood is removable.

The Amazon Essentials Lightweight Water-Resistant Jacket is one of the best men’s travel jackets. The brand does it again with this highly serviceable jacket at a solid price point of less than 50 USD. This jacket is made from 100% nylon, including the shell, the down, and the lining. Moreover, it comes with a zipper closure, ensuring that it offers complete frontal coverage. If that wasn’t enough, the entire jacket packs neatly into included carrying bag with a drawstring closure, allowing you to carry it everywhere easily. The features also include elasticized cuffs, zipper pockets, and a stand-up collar. Finally, the faux-shearling-lined hand warmer front pockets ensure coziness.

• It’s machine washable.
• This puffer jacket comes in 15 solid and print options.
• It also comes in 15 size options.
• The sizing might run small.

If you think that travel blazers are the best jackets for traveling, then look no further than the Eddie Bauer Women’s Departure Travel Blazer . No other travel blazer combines a stylish and classic look with comfort like this one, which is also one of the best travel jackets for Europe. This single-button blazer is made from a 100% polyester spandex blend, which means that it has just the right amount of stretch. At the same time, it wicks moisture and keeps you looking fresh and good. The jacket stays wrinkle-free even on long-haul flights if that wasn’t enough. Plus, you can even wear it to mimosa brunches and classy nights out on the town. That’s why it’s one of the top contenders for Europe travel jackets.

• This classic universal slim fit suits most body types. 
• You have 10 size options to choose from.
• The zipper closure ensures coverage.
• It doesn’t come in many colors.

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, then we’d highly recommend the Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody . After all, there’s no way to make a “best travel jacket” list without including Arc’teryx , is it? So, what makes this jacket so warm? The magic of the 850-fill-power down keeps you cozy in cold weather too. Despite that, the jacket weighs only 10.9 oz and, again, packs down to next to nothing. However, the most interesting addition is the Coreloft synthetic insulation in the areas that are likelier to become wet and damp. So, the down holds up much better against moisture and wet weather. In fact, it’s one of the best jackets for backpacking . If you don’t believe me, check out what The World Pursuit has to say in this ultimate review .

• This is a very stylish jacket.
• The jacket has both longevity and performance.
• The stuff sack and storm hood are standout features.
• It’s expensive.

The Patagonia Women’s Better Sweater Fleece Jacket is one of the best jackets for traveling. This is a go-to mild-weather travel jacket that’s packable enough and warm enough for cool evenings. In fact, you can even wear it as a mid-layer on outdoor adventures. This is because it’s made from warm, midweight, 100% recycled polyester fleece that’s been dyed with a low-impact process. Moreover, it even has 100% recycled polyester-brushed tricot trim on the hem, the cuffs, the pockets, and the wind flap for additional protection. If that wasn’t enough, the jacket even has a front zipper with a wind flap and kissing-welt closure for complete coverage. Finally, the inner drop-in pockets and zippered handwarmer pockets wrap up the features.

• The jacket is wrinkle-resistant and versatile.
• It’s packable and lightweight.
• The collar can be zipped all the way up.
• None, really.

You can’t go wrong with any of the travel jackets on this list. However, you might find that some suit you better than others. Hence we’ve curated a more specialized list below.

• Best budget jacket: Eddie Bauer Men’s CirrusLite Down Jacket
• Best wrap jacket: Eddie Bauer Wrap-Style Womens Summer Jacket
• Most color options: Cole Haan Rain Jacket
• Best denim jacket: Levi’s Plus-Size Original Trucker Jacket

How To Choose The Best Jackets for Traveling?

One of the most important factors when it comes to choosing travel jackets is the weight and dimensions. Since luggage loss and mishandling are rampant and you don’t want to check in additional bags, it’s important to pick a packable jacket that’s compact and lightweight. This is also true if you’re going to carry it on your person during flights too. Furthermore, it’s even more essential if you’re, say, hiking and camping. Luckily, most modern jacket options for traveling take up no space and can be folded down small neatly. Stick to layered clothing if you’re traveling to a place that’s cold.

Another important factor when choosing a traveling jacket is the fabric. Since jackets are the most manhandled of all our clothes, choosing wrinkle-free fabrics is very important. After all, you don’t want to be ironing and steaming your jacket while traveling. Wrinkle-resistant fabrics include rayon, wool, polyester, and maybe even a mix of them all.

Secondly, having a stain-resistant material is important, especially if you’re clumsy. This is especially true if you’re using just one jacket for extended periods of time. At the same time, consider darker colors or materials that you can take stains off of easily.

Now, this goes without saying, but a great jacket for traveling has many useful pockets. Some best travel jackets for Europe even have padded pockets for sensitive items such as camera lenses or jewelry. What’s more, smaller zip pockets can be very useful, especially for keeping phones and other small things ready at hand.

Packable jackets can be rolled up and stored entirely within one of their pockets, making them so packable.

Parkas and anoraks are usually the warmest, as they’re designed for the most extreme cold weather.

Lightweight down jackets are best, but during winter, you need warm coats with a fleece layer.

Author:  Peter S

A travel blogger and the founder of WOW Travel, Peter is a crazy dreamer with an insatiable desire for adventure who could never settle for an ordinary life or conform with the norm. After visiting more than 50 countries, he aims to travel with a purpose and inspire people to do the same.

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10 Best Travel Jackets with Hidden Pockets [Updated 2023]

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

At A Glance: Our Top Travel Jackets with Hidden Pockets

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

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

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

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

Top Product Overview

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

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

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

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

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

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

Product Information

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

SCOTTeVEST Men's Pack Windbreaker Jacket with 19 Pockets

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

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

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

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

VERSATYL Unisex Travel Jacket with 18 Pockets

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

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

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

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

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

BOMBAX Travel Jacket

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

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

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

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

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

AyeGear V26 Vest with 26 Pockets

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

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Jackets With Hidden Pockets For Women

Scottevest women's essential 2.0 jacket.

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

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

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

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

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

BOMBAX Women 10 Pocket Travel Jacket Hoodie

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

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

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

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

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

SCOTTeVEST Women's Chloe Hoodie Jacket

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

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

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

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

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

SCOTTeVEST Women's Trench Coat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Baubax Travel Jacket

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to look for in a Travel Jacket or Vest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Travel Jacket For You

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

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

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

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

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

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The Best Travel Jackets for Men and Women

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

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

Courtesy of Jack Wolfskin

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

What to look for in a travel jacket

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

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

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

Lightweight travel jackets

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

Courtesy of Ibex

Ibex Shak Lite Jacket

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

Made with merino wool responsibly sourced in Australia, the Ibex Shak Lite is the Goldilocks of jackets for transitional weather. Not too light or too bulky, it’s just right for fall and spring weather. Knitted in a thicker ponte style, it’s heavier than a sweater and can be used as an outer layer when temperatures begin to dip into the 60s Fahrenheit. It’s lightweight enough that you can throw it in your day pack and not worry about it taking up too much space. (But it doesn’t come with a pouch like other packable jackets, so be careful with what else you put in your bag.) In winter, it can also be used as a midlayer under an insulated jacket. Available in both men’s and women’s sizes in a variety of colors, the collar on the women’s style tapers off like a bomber jacket, while the men’s collar zips straight up to the chin. As with all merino wool products, this jacket is naturally antimicrobial, so you can wear it many times in between washes. When you do need to freshen it up, it’s machine washable. Just be sure to line dry it or it could shrink like other wool products.

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

Courtesy of Warp + Weft

Warp + Weft Sea All Gender Denim Jacket

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

Unless you’re on a business trip or headed to a black-tie wedding, denim jackets are suitable for most scenarios. Casual enough for a morning coffee run but cool enough to wear out to a bar, a good jean jacket will keep you warm in that zone after summer ends but before you need to break out the serious insulation (for me, that’s until temperatures dip below 50 degrees). Another plus? Most denim jackets usually include two stash pockets on the inside—handy for keeping your phone, passport, and boarding pass easily accessible at the airport. Warp + Weft’s Sea Denim Jacket has the stylings of a classic jean jacket and offers an extended all-gender size range (the equivalent of a women’s size XS to 6XL and a men’s XXS to 5XL). In addition to size inclusivity, Warp + Weft incorporates responsible processes into manufacturing its own denim from scratch. In addition to using 1,400 gallons less water than traditional denim manufacturing to make a pair of jeans, Warp + Weft treats and recycles 98 percent of the water it does use while also committing to fair wages and ethical practices for its workers.

Packable down jackets

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

Courtesy of Mountain Hardwear

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer UL Jacket

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

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

L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Down Hooded Jacket

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

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

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

Jack Wolfskin JWP Down

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

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

Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket

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

For those who live in places with mild winters, an expensive puffer jacket you only use a few times a year might not be a necessary investment. But for trips when you do need an insulated jacket, Uniqlo’s Ultra Light Down will do the trick for under $100 and packs up into an included pouch the size of a water bottle. The water-repellent coating on this jacket can ward off light rain and snow but is also thin enough to fit under a waterproof shell. Made with a minimum of 90 percent down, the 750 fill power is not as heavy duty as the premium Mountain Hardwear jacket mentioned above, but the coat is warm enough to ward off chills on an average NYC winter day that hovers between 30–40 degrees. Fans of Uniqlo’s Ultra Light Down will notice the Japanese company has altered the design to have a boxier silhouette and a new fly-front to cover the zipper to make it more stylish. For those who prefer hooded jackets, Uniqlo also offers that style in both men’s and women’s sizes for just $10 more.

Non-down alternatives

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

Courtesy of Aether

Aether Eco Space Hoodie

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

When Aether launched in Los Angeles in 2009, the idea behind the brand was to create clothing that could withstand the outdoors but wouldn’t make you look like you wandered off the Appalachian trail and into a city. Consider the brand’s signature Space Hoodie for men. At first glance, it looks like a regular hoodie. But upon closer inspection, you’ll realize this lightweight jacket is also water- and wind-resistant—it’s just made without the tell-tale quilting of a typical insulated puffer coat. In 2021, it was updated with ecoconscious materials like recycled polyester ripstop fabric treated with a DWR coating; no perfluorinated chemicals (or PFCs) that can damage the environment are used. Its 80g PrimaLoft Bio insulation is made of postconsumer recycled synthetic fibers that reach nearly 94 percent biodegradation in under two years. As for warmth—that’s about enough to keep you cozy in most destinations. For extremely cold destinations, this jacket is lightweight enough to wear as a midlayer.

Columbia Titan Pass Double Wall Hybrid Jacket

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

This puffer from Oregon-based Columbia uses multiple layers of proprietary technology to keep you warm. The exterior shell offers Columbia’s Double Wall layered construction to block wind and trap heat, while the interior relies on recycled synthetic down as insulation. The interior of the jacket is lined with a shiny gold thermal-reflective pattern—but it’s not just for looks. That’s Columbia’s Omni-Heat Infinity technology, which reflects your body heat back toward you while keeping the jacket lightweight and breathable. In terms of packability, the exterior chest pocket doubles as a stuff sack for the jacket and includes a small loop, so you can hang the packed jacket off the side of your backpack. Packed down, the jacket takes up about as much space as a wine bottle would while weighing just under a pound.

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket

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

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

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

Summersalt Reversible Packable Puffer

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

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

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

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

The 8 Best Airplane Travel Jacket Options for Men and Women

• By Christian Brandt
• July 29, 2023

If you are always on the lookout for gear that’ll make your trips smoother and more comfortable, I’ve got something for you! Upgrade your travel wardrobe with one of the top airplane travel jacket options for men and women. These aren’t just any jackets – they’re lightweight yet warm, packable, stylish, and designed with travel in mind.

Whether you’re jetting off to a business meeting or embarking on an epic globe-trotting journey, these jackets have got you covered.  By the way, for more tips on how to make your next flight more comfortable and enjoyable, check out other related posts like “ 15 Airplane Travel Essentials For Your Next Long-Haul Flight ” and “ 10 Tips On How To Survive Long Flights In Economy Class “.

And if you decide to buy any of these jackets and items that I introduce in these posts, feel free to use the Amazon affiliate links to purchase them. By doing so, I will get a commission of which I will donate 50% to charity, at no extra cost to you.

But now let’s check out this list of the 8 best airplane travel jackets out there!

Key Takeaways

• Women’s jacket options include the JTANIB Packable Jacket , Avoogue Womens Lightweight and Breathable Jacket , Tommy Hilfiger Puffer Lightweight Jacket , and Little Donkey Lightweight Travel Jacket .
• Men’s jacket options include the Weatherproof Puffer Jacket , Eddie Bauer Packable Rainfoil Jacket , CAMEL CROWN Packable Down Jacket , and THE NORTH FACE Venture Jacket .
• Both women’s and men’s jackets offer lightweight and packable designs for easy storage and transport.
• The jackets vary in features such as UV protection, waterproof material, insulation, breathability, and adjustability.

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What is an Airplane Travel Jacket?

An airplane travel jacket goes beyond being just another piece of outerwear; it is thoughtfully designed to cater specifically to the unique demands of travel. An airplane travel jacket should have the following four characteristics:

• Lightweight: Traveling can be tiring enough, and the last thing you need is heavy outerwear weighing you down. Airplane travel jackets are crafted with lightweight materials, allowing for ease of movement and comfort without sacrificing style.
• Packable: Packing efficiently is essential when you’re on the go. With their packable design, these jackets should be easily compressible into a compact pouch, saving valuable space in your luggage for other important items.
• Comfortable: Long flights call for comfort, and that’s why an airplane travel jacket should be made from quality materials, providing a cozy and pleasant experience during your travels.
• Multiple Pockets: An airplane travel jacket should have cleverly designed pockets that provide convenient storage for all your travel essentials. From passports and boarding passes to your smartphone and travel documents, everything should have its place, ensuring you stay organized and stress-free during your journey.

Now let’s explore the top 8 airplane travel jackets that have gained popularity among travelers for their practicality, style, and travel-friendly features. Discover the perfect travel companion to make your journeys more enjoyable and stress-free!

1) Weatherproof Puffer Jacket for Men ($69.98)

When it comes to finding the perfect jacket for your airplane travel adventures, look no further than the Weatherproof Men’s Puffer Jacket . This jacket is not only stylish and versatile, but it also has some amazing features that make it a top choice for travelers like you.

First off, let’s talk about its material. Made from polyester, this jacket is both durable and lightweight, ensuring that you stay comfortable throughout your journey. And with its zipper closure, you can easily slip it on or off as needed.

But what sets this jacket apart is its pillow packable feature. Yes, you read that right! The Weatherproof Men’s Puffer Jacket can be converted into a plush neck pillow using the attached compartment in the collar. So when it’s time to catch some sleep on the plane, just pack it up and rest your weary head.

Not only is this jacket cozy and packable, but it’s also warm without overheating. Thanks to its water and wind-resistant cire shell and alternative down-quilted insulation, you’ll stay snug as a bug in any climate.

And let’s not forget about its functionality. With a full front zipper closure and two lower exposed zipper pockets, you’ll have plenty of space to store your essentials while keeping them secure.

By clicking on the affiliate link below and buying t he Weatherproof Men’s Puffer Jacket on Amazon.com , I will get a small commission, of which I will donate  50% to charity.  Your support will help make a positive impact on those in need! 

• Buy the Weatherproof Men’s Puffer Jacket on Amazon.com

2) JTANIB Packable Jacket for Women ($30.99)

When it comes to finding the perfect travel jacket for women, the JTANIB Packable Jacket for Women is a top choice and an excellent option for your next plane journey.

One of the key features that set this jacket apart is its lightweight construction. Traveling can already be tiring, so you don’t want heavy outerwear weighing you down. The JTANIB jacket for women is crafted from lightweight materials that allow for ease of movement and comfort without sacrificing style. Whether you’re rushing through airports or exploring new destinations, this jacket won’t slow you down.

Another great feature of this jacket is its packability. Efficient packing is essential when you’re on the go, and this jacket delivers. It can be easily compressed into a compact pouch, saving valuable space in your luggage for other important items. Whether you choose to carry it on your back or store it in your travel bag, it takes up minimal space and ensures that you’re prepared for any weather conditions that may arise during your journey.

Comfort is also a priority when traveling long distances, and the JTANIB jacket doesn’t disappoint. Made from quality materials and featuring a polyester lining, this jacket provides a cozy and pleasant experience throughout your travels.

This jacket also has cleverly designed pockets that offer convenient storage for all your travel essentials. From passports and boarding passes to your smartphone and travel documents, everything has its place. Staying organized and stress-free during your journey becomes effortless with this thoughtful design.

By clicking on the affiliate link below and buying t he JTANIB Packable Jacket for Women on Amazon.com , I will get a small commission, of which I will donate  50% to charity.  Your support will help make a positive impact on those in need! 

• Buy the JTANIB Packable Jacket for Women on Amazon.com

3) CAMEL CROWN Men’s Packable Down Jacket ($49.99)

If you’re looking for the perfect jacket to take with you on your next plane trip, look no further than the CAMEL CROWN Men’s Packable Down Jacket . This ultra-lightweight and thin-down jacket is designed with travel in mind.

First off, this jacket is incredibly packable. It can be easily folded and packed into a small pocket, making it super convenient to bring along on your journey. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, having a compact jacket that doesn’t take up much space in your luggage is a huge plus.

Not only is it easy to pack, but this jacket also provides excellent warmth and protection. The grey duck down filling ensures superior warmth, while the water and stain-repellent outer shell keep you dry in case of any spills or unexpected weather conditions.

One of the standout features of this jacket is its versatility. It works well as an outermost layer, providing good wind breakage and keeping you warm even in mild cold weather. Plus, the adjustable hems and elasticized cuffs ensure wind-proof warmth.

In terms of comfort, this jacket has got you covered too. The smooth pulling zipper with fabric chin guard prevents any skin abrasions, while the lining made of nylon adds an extra layer of softness.

By clicking on the affiliate link below and buying t he CAMEL CROWN Men’s Packable Down Jacket on Amazon.com , I will get a small commission, of which I will donate  50% to charity.  Your support will help make a positive impact on those in need! 

• Buy the CAMEL CROWN Men’s Packable Down Jacket on Amazon.com
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4) Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Puffer Lightweight Jacket ($110.00)

Introducing the Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Puffer Lightweight Jacket , a top contender for the title of best airplane travel jacket.

This puffer jacket is made from 100% polyester, ensuring both comfort and durability throughout your journey. With its imported design and machine washable feature, it’s easy to see why this jacket is a popular choice among travelers. The zipper closure adds convenience, allowing you to easily put it on or take it off as needed.

One of the standout features of this jacket is its quality performance. Designed specifically for women, it boasts a front center zipper that extends into a stand-up collar and hood with an adjustable drawstring. This ensures that you can stay warm and cozy even in chilly cabin temperatures. Additionally, the two side zipper pockets provide a safe place to store your valuables while on the go.

When it comes to warmth, this jacket has got you covered. Its interior insulation provides an extra layer of coziness, while the bottom hem falls just below the hips for ease of wear without compromising warmth. And if that wasn’t enough, this travel-friendly jacket can easily be packed into its matching drawstring travel pouch, making it perfect for those always-on-the-go moments.

By clicking on the affiliate link below and buying t he Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Puffer Lightweight Jacket   on Amazon.com , I will get a small commission, of which I will donate  50% to charity.  Your support will help make a positive impact on those in need! 

• Buy the Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Puffer Lightweight Jacket on Amazon.com

5) Eddie Bauer Men’s Packable Rainfoil Jacket ($97.99)

When it comes to finding the perfect travel jacket for your next airplane adventure, look no further than the Eddie Bauer Men’s Packable Rainfoil Jacket . This jacket has got you covered in more ways than one!

First and foremost, this jacket is made from recycled polyester, so you can feel good about your eco-friendly choice. It’s also lightweight and packable, making it a breeze to bring along on your travels. With its zipper closure and adjustable hood and hem, you can easily seal out any unwanted weather that may come your way.

The WeatherEdge waterproof fabric not only breathes well during moderate activity but also features a StormRepel DWR Plus moisture-shedding finish. Say goodbye to soggy clothes and hello to comfort!

Not only is this jacket practical, but it’s also stylish. The indigo-blue color adds a touch of sophistication while still being versatile enough for any outfit. And don’t worry about fitting all your essentials – there’s even a pocket specifically designed for your phone.

By clicking on the affiliate link below and buying t he Eddie Bauer Men’s Packable Rainfoil Jacket on Amazon.com , I will get a small commission, of which I will donate  50% to charity.  Your support will help make a positive impact on those in need! 

• Buy the Eddie Bauer Men’s Packable Rainfoil Jacket on Amazon.com

6) Little Donkey Lightweight Women’s Travel Jacket ($45.99 – $75.99)

The Little Donkey Lightweight Women’s Travel Jacket is a great option for traveling by plane. Made from recycled polyester with a nylon lining, this jacket is not only environmentally friendly but also comfortable to wear. It features a zipper closure and can be easily machine washed, making it convenient for travel.

One of the key features of this jacket is its waterproof and breathable fabric. The DryVent 2.5L technology ensures that you stay dry even in backcountry storms or heavy rain. This is especially important when traveling as you never know what kind of weather you might encounter.

Another advantage of the Little Donkey Lightweight Women’s Travel Jacket is its versatility. It provides cozy comfort for both casual nights and adventure-filled days. You can even layer it with other clothing underneath for added warmth during colder flights.

Additionally, this jacket offers great fit and construction, ensuring that you look stylish while traveling. Its lightweight nature makes it easy to pack and carry around airports without adding extra weight to your luggage.

By clicking on the affiliate link below and buying t he Little Donkey Lightweight Women’s Travel Jacket on Amazon.com , I will get a small commission, of which I will donate  50% to charity.  Your support will help make a positive impact on those in need! 

• Buy the Little Donkey Lightweight Women’s Travel Jacket on Amazon.com

7) The North Face Venture Jacket for Men ($107.75 – $109.95)

When it comes to finding the perfect jacket for airplane travel, The North Face Venture Jacket is a top contender. Made from 100% recycled materials, this jacket not only keeps you dry and protected from wind chill but also does its part in reducing environmental impact.

Constructed with waterproof, breathable, and seam-sealed DryVent 2.5L fabric, it ensures that you stay comfortable throughout your journey.

Whether you’re embarking on a rainy adventure or facing backcountry storms, this jacket has got you covered. But it doesn’t stop there – this jacket is suitable for everyday use as well. So whether you’re traveling or just going about your daily routine, you can rely on The North Face Venture Jacket to provide cozy comfort.

You’ll find that the fit of this jacket is pretty good – but bear in mind that if you want a tighter fit, go down a size. Initially, the material may feel stiff and potentially noisy but rest assured that it will loosen up as you wear it more often.

By clicking on the affiliate link below and buying The North Face Venture Jacket for Men on Amazon.com , I will get a small commission, of which I will donate  50% to charity.  Your support will help make a positive impact on those in need! 

• Buy The North Face Venture Jacket for Men on Amazon.com

8) Avoogue Lightweight and Breathable Women’s Jacket ($31.99)

Are you searching for the perfect travel jacket for your next airplane adventure? Look no further than the Avoogue Lightweight and Breathable Women’s Jacket ! This jacket is designed with your comfort and convenience in mind, making it an excellent choice for any travel enthusiast.

Made of 100% polyester, this jacket is not only lightweight but also waterproof. Say goodbye to worrying about unexpected rain showers during your journey! The soft touch and windproof features ensure that you stay warm and cozy throughout your flight.

One of the standout features of this jacket is its packability. It comes with a handy carrying pouch, making it easy to fold up and store in your carry-on bag or backpack. No need to worry about bulky jackets taking up valuable space!

The Avoogue Women’s Jacket also offers practicality with its multiple pockets. You’ll find two waterproof zipper pockets that are perfect for storing small essentials like keys or a phone. Plus, the front zip closure allows for quick access when needed.

And when it comes to fit, this jacket doesn’t disappoint. It is well-constructed and true to size, ensuring a comfortable experience during long flights. The wrist elastic provides a relaxed fit without feeling too tight.

By clicking on the affiliate link below and buying t he Avoogue Lightweight and Breathable Women’s Jacket on Amazon.com , I will get a small commission, of which I will donate  50% to charity.  Your support will help make a positive impact on those in need! 

• Buy Avoogue Lightweight and Breathable Women’s Jacket on Amazon.com
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So, whether you’re jetting off to a business meeting or embarking on your next adventure, these eight jackets have got you covered. They’re all stylish, packable, and comfortable – perfect for any trip!

If your next trip is already in the making, I would like to invite you to  book your hotel ,  flight ,  rental car , and  other travel essentials  with Giving Getaway.

Every completed booking earns Giving Getaway a commission, 50% of which will be used to organize charity events like the 2021 Christmas gift drive for kids and teenagers in a children’s home in Montenegro .

So not only will you be experiencing the trip of a lifetime, but you’ll also be contributing to a great cause. Start planning your trip now and make a difference with Giving Getaway!

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Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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