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.
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. Patagonia 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.
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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?
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divya jain says
Thank you for sharing such a good information It will help us a lot.