The Very Best Travel Gear of the Last Year, According to Our Readers

By Madison Flager and Meaghan Kenny

Best Travel Gear of 2023 According to Our Readers

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

2023 was an incredible year for travel— new hotel openings , emerging destinations , and trending food scenes brought us further around the world. And with all that travel comes lots of new gear that editors and readers alike loved. From carry-on essentials and cozy loungewear that make long-haul flights a little more comfortable to supportive walking shoes built for those days when you're clocking 20,000 steps, we tested out some pretty great travel gear this past year—and recommended our favorites to you along the way.

As we plan our next big adventures, we're taking a look back on the products that resonated most with Condé Nast Traveler readers in these last 12 months. Below, you'll find the 16 most-purchased Traveler -recommended items of 2023, from lightweight travel pillows and noise-canceling headphones to tote bags you'll wear everywhere. Consider these our best travel gear recommendations of the year, available to shop now in case you missed any the first time around.

Find the best travel gear by category:

In-flight essentials, versatile travel bags, comfortable walking shoes, cozy loungewear, leakproof toiletry bottles, noise-canceling headphones, a supportive exercise dress, waterproof gear, a portable steamer.

best travel clothing sets

Our readers could not get enough of this travel pillow from Trtl this past year. It's much different than your classic travel pillow : shaped like a supportive wrap for your neck, it takes up little space in your carry-on and weighs only 4.5 ounces. Bring this on your next long-haul flight, train ride, or road trip—your head and neck will thank you later.

best travel clothing sets

If you're headed on a red-eye flight, a sleep mask is a non-negotiable. You loved this one for its unique, contoured shape: It has raised sections over your eyes so it's not too restrictive or uncomfortable to sleep in, but lies flat around the nose and eyebrows to effectively block out light while you catch some ZZZs. It's easy to see why this Amazon bestseller has racked up over 71,000 five-star reviews.

best travel clothing sets

Never eat off of a dirty airplane seat tray again! This $30 travel essential is a complete game changer—especially when you're stuck with limited space in the middle seat. The slim, lightweight cover slips over your seat tray like a pillow case, lending you a clean surface to eat and work on. It also features a few handy compartments to hold your Kindle, water bottle, earbuds, and any other in-flight must-haves.

best travel clothing sets

Is there a more stressful feeling than thinking you've lost your luggage? Our readers clearly think not, since Apple AirTags were among the most-purchased travel gear in 2023. Slip one of these tiny tags into your checked bags, duffels, or backpacks so you know exactly where your personal belongings are each step of the way. Use the Find My app on your phone to track your tag and never worry about where your luggage is ever again.

best travel clothing sets

Is there a travel bag more versatile or more chic than good leather tote? Traveler contributor Lydia Mansel raved about Cuyana's popular Classic Easy Zipper Tote . The brand gave the Easy Tote a little facelift in 2023—it can now be fully zipped, making it an even more secure travel companion. It's lightweight, sleek, and the quality speaks for itself. You'll have this thing for years to come.

best travel clothing sets

Calpak's Luka duffel is the perfect travel bag for weekend trips or long-haul flights (we like to use it as a personal item ). Carry it by its soft top handles or by its long adjustable strap. Features we love: the separate shoe compartment, trolley sleeve, and the several internal pockets to keep you organized. I've used many duffel bags over the years, but this one reigns supreme.

best travel clothing sets

Every packing list has to have a pair of comfortable walking shoes on it. We appreciate the effortless cool look and feel of New Balance shoes, especially the 547 Core sneaker. There's no break-in time needed and I've never gotten any blisters after wearing these—even after a long day trip.

If you haven't tried a pair of Allbirds yet, what are you waiting for? The brand is known for its ultra-lightweight, comfortable kicks—the kind that make sightseeing all day long on your feet a breeze. The Tree Runners are versatile enough to pack on any trip and take up little suitcase space.

best travel clothing sets

We all need some comfortable loungewear, whether you're working from home, boarding a long flight, or just relaxing in your hotel room. We love matching sets like one from Cozy Earth—the pullover and joggers are supremely soft, cool to the touch, and offer a perfectly relaxed fit without being too baggy.

best travel clothing sets

When it comes to packing toiletries like shampoo and conditioner, body wash, and moisturizer, you're going to need some leakproof, reusable travel bottles . Our editors swear by Cadence capsules: These airtight, magnetic capsules stay neatly together in your Dopp kit , take up little space, and are designed without any right angles or edges, so you can get as much product out as possible (this also makes them so easy to clean). Customize everything about your Cadence set—from the color and size to the number of capsules to what each label says. And while the original small capsules are a nice size for short trips, you can also grab the The Extender —an add-on that allows you to increase the size of the bottle when you need more room.

best travel clothing sets

When Amazon Prime Day rolled around in July and then again in October, noise-canceling headphones were scooped up in droves. There are a lot of popular options on the market we love, like the Beats Studio3 wireless headphones. They'll block out all that extra noise on your next flight and let you comfortably listen to all your favorite movies in peace.

Image may contain: Tub, and Bathtub

More noise-canceling gear we recommend: the Apple AirPods Pro wireless ear buds. If you haven't tried these yet, now is the perfect time. These tiny earbuds come in an ultra-compact case that is small enough to fit in a crossbody bag or running waist pack. I use these every day—while I'm hiking, running, commuting to the office, and everything in between.

best travel clothing sets

Exercise dresses are still having a moment. The sporty yet feminine dress is reimagining activewear—it can be worn just as effortlessly to a workout class or a game of pickleball as it can be to a lunch date. Of our favorite styles, you loved this option from Outdoor Voices most. It offers breathable built-in shorts, adjustable straps, and side pockets, with a flattering silhouette that's neither tight nor restrictive. We have a feeling these will be just as popular again come spring.

Image may contain: Tool, Axe, Umbrella, and Canopy

Packing an umbrella seems like a waste of space, until you find yourself in a downpour without one. Traveler contributor Claire Volkman put a dozen options to the test ; this sturdy, wind-resistant, lightweight, and compact option from Weatherman was her favorite overall.

Image may contain: Strap

Keep your phone safe while at the beach, in a kayak, or on a boat with this waterproof pouch from Pelican. It comes with a lanyard to wear around your neck, but if it does go overboard, you can rest easy knowing it'll float on the surface.

best travel clothing sets

It's nearly impossible to keep clothes wrinkle-free in your suitcase. This becomes especially tricky when you're traveling for a special occasion, say a destination wedding , and you need to touch up formal wear upon arrival. This lightweight, portable steamer was a huge hit with our readers—and we see why: It weighs less than a pound, is easy to pack in your suitcase, and offers 10 minutes of continuous steam. The Nesugar steamer comes with a convenient wall mount, too, so you can keep it neat and tidy back at home.

Looking for more of our readers' favorite travel gear? Take a look back at some of our top stories of the year:

  • Comfortable walking shoes for travel
  • Our editors' favorite tote bags
  • How to sleep on a plane
  • Reusable toiletry bottles
  • Loungewear sets for long travel days
  • The best travel accessories

Travel Fashion Girl

Essential Travel Clothing Brands: The Female Globetrotter’s Guide

FASHION , Travel Clothing

travel-clothing-brands

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!

Stylish travel clothing is hard to find, but these companies do a great job of combining practicality and femininity too. Whether you’re an avid globetrotter or a newbie nomad this is our essential list of the best travel clothing brands for women!

Best Travel Clothing Brands

Table of contents.

Confession: I overpacked all the wrong clothes for 5 years before I finally started traveling carryon only on my long term travels .

I saw other travelers, predominantly male travelers, traveling around the world in a small little backpack, and I was envious of them – they seemed to move so freely without a bunch of baggage. I wanted to be like them. Traveling light.

However, my situation was the exact opposite. I was traveling with way too much stuff and somehow I never felt prepared for the destinations I was visiting. Based on limited packing advice online at the time, I chose clothing that was either too technical, low quality and consequently not practical for long term travels, or just not my style at all. To sum it up, I didn’t feel like my best self.

If you also feel unprepared while traveling, check out my guide to stop overpacking .

travel-clothing-brands

The Eddie Bauer Departure Shirt is lightweight and moisture-wicking, perfect for travel! Paired with Rebecca Minkoff Backpack and Taos Star Sneakers

In 2011, I set off on a mission to figure out how to choose the best travel clothing without sacrificing my personal style or skimping out on functionality. One year later Travel Fashion Girl was born. The idea was to show female travelers how they could be fully prepared on their travel while also feeling good about their clothes, too.

I made it my personal goal to start packing smarter, traveling lighter, and to bring the right things for my trips.

I eventually discovered that the secret to packing the right clothes for a trip was to choose things that were practical but things that also made me feel good about myself. The ideal trifecta for travel clothes are items that feature form, function, and fashion, too. While the majority of time you don’t need specialty “technical, utilitarian clothing”, travel and outdoor brands do offer so much functionality when traveling. Their fabrics tend to be lightweight, breathable, packable, wrinkle resistant, quick-drying, and so much more than your average garment.

Unfortunately, many times the designs leave alot to be desired for. They can be masculine, childish, or unattractive. The solution is to look for regular garments with technical features and combine those items with a few of the most fashionable travel clothing options available.

What are the best travel clothing brands?

Eddie bauer.

  • Toad and Co.

Chico’s

  • Eileen Fisher

Non-Travel Clothing Companies that Are Amazing for Travel

Anthropologie.

While stylish easy care travel clothes can be hard to find, I’ve found several companies that do a great job of combining practicality and femininity. Here’s my list of the best travel clothing brands for women:

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Eddie Bauer:  Sizes XS-XXL  |  Petite S-L  |  Tall M-XXL  |  Plus 2X-3X

As I started researching hiking clothing for my various trips to national parks over the past year, I discovered Eddie Bauer , and this brand has quickly become some of the best travel clothes for women . I like many of their items for travel and every day, and so do our readers!

Readers have continually bought up the Departure Pants , which were a big hit during Amazon Prime Day! They’re lightweight, don’t retain moisture, have UPF protection, and a hidden pocket. The definition of perfect travel pants! 

Consider checking out the Departure Travel Clothing Collection , which includes the Departure Blazer , another TFG fave that works as a summer jacket with some polish. Or their ultra-lightweight and breathable summer dresses are a huge hit, such as their famous Departure Dress Collection .

Find out why TFG readers constantly choose Eddie Bauer shirts for travel in this review !

travel-clothing-brands

Eddie Bauer Ripstop Shirt worn with the best-selling Wallaroo Victoria Sun Hat  

I became a fan of their button-down tops immediately, including the Ripstop Shirt and the Departure 2.0 Long Sleeve . They’re both versatile enough to be paired with denim shorts , worn as a beach cover-up, and tucked into my favorite jeans.  They also have cute outerwear like my Charly Waterproof Rain Jacket (highly recommend!) 

Eddie Bauer often has awesome sales, and they also offer a range of clothing sizes, including regular, tall, petite, and plus sizes.

Read this review to learn why we and our readers rave about Eddie Bauer’s waterproof jackets, particularly the Charly Jacket.

travel-clothing-brands

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater Sizes XS-XL

One of the top reader-favorite travel brands for key staples like pants, sweaters, and jackets is Quince . While they offer tons of great pieces, there are definitely a few faves that readers consistently rave about and recommend . Overall, they’re a leader in high-quality yet affordable women’s travel clothes that are washable and often wrinkle-resistant!

The most popular seller by far is the Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater , which is super soft and versatile but still lightweight for fall and winter trips. Another reader fave is the Mongolian Cashmere Tee . Not only is it warm enough for layering, but it’s perfect to wear year-round. If you love cashmere as much as the readers do, review the full Quince Cashmere Collection .

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XS-XL:  Quince

Readers absolutely love their Ultra Stretch Ponte Pants to death! They’re stylish but extremely comfortable, with the look of classic trousers and the feel of yoga pants! The four-way stretch and soft fabric make them a dream to wear. They can be worn with virtually any top and look great with flats , sneakers , and ankle boots .

Quince even has jackets, such as the lightweight but warm Down Puffer Jacket , which goes with so many pieces! It can be worn with jeans ,  leggings , fleece-lined leggings , or even over your favorite travel dress . This jacket works in temperatures as low as 32° F. It’s a perfect go-to for airplane outfits, as well!

Their Washable Silk Blouse is another popular pick that readers love for its crisp and polished look that’s super low-maintenance. It’s deliciously soft and flattering and comes in a wide range of colors. Check out their entire collection of Washable Silk Clothing that is easy to take care of when traveling and includes skirts, dresses, pajamas, and more!

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Wool& Axis Leggings

The merino wool brand Wool& is becoming a fast reader favorite due to their breathable, comfortable travel clothes that span everything from basics like tees and leggings to dresses and pajamas ! 

The Addison Turtleneck is prime to snuggle up in as winter looms, and you can even layer with the popular Morgan V-Neck Tee .

best travel clothing sets

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Wool& Morgan Merino Wool V Neck T Shirt

The Axis Leggings and Sloan Top are loved by readers for their cozy warmth and versatility. These thermals are made from merino wool, so they’re soft, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and temperature-regulating to keep you warm on freezing winter days.

And if you want even more cold-oriented clothing, the Aspen Hoodie and Wool& bestseller, the Everett Tunic , look absolutely inviting to wear by a roaring fire. And we can’t forget the ever-popular Maggie Dress , which is a short-sleeve number that can be a standalone dress or even a beach cover-up .

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Icebreaker Merino Tech Lite II Short Sleeve T-Shirt

Icebreaker is a traveler and reader favorite for merino wool base layers , but this brand has other merino clothing (for both men and women), such as jackets, dresses, t-shirts, and even underwear! 

If you’re traveling in cold weather, thermals are the secret to packing light and Icebreaker offers some of the best ! (Trust me, I keep buying less expensive brands then I end up spending more money because I always come back to Icebreaker.) Specifically, merino wool is a miracle fabric for winter because it’s moisture-wicking and odor-resistant to keep things fresh but also breathable.  

The most popular Icebreaker thermal bottoms are the Oasis Thermal Leggings and the Oasis Thermal Top , which can be layered underneath your winter clothing.

travel-clothing-brands

Icebreaker Tee, Outdoor Research Sun Cap, and Ray Ban Sunglasses

I also love their classic Icebreaker Tee , which can be worn casually to hike and camp or even tucked into a skirt and dressed up with jewelry and cute sandals.

Many female travelers also recommend dresses such as the Yanni T-Shirt or Tank Dress . Their price points are high but for the minimalist adventurer, these are a must! 

travel-clothing-brands

ibex Women’s Wool Aire Down Jacket  | Sizes from XS-XL

A second merino wool favorite is ibex . They not only have great base layers for winter travel but also sell other popular items like hoodies , tank tops , and tees.  

For top merino wool base layers, Woolies 2   is awesome for every kind of traveler! The Woolies Thermal Tops and Thermal Bottoms are reader favorites. They’re super lightweight while offering that necessary insulation.

Their Sweatpants Joggers are also cozy due to the merino wool terry cloth fabric and will keep you dry as these won’t trap moisture, so great for flights or staying cozy in your hotel room!

travel-clothing-brands

Wearing  ibex Wool Aire Down Jacket ,  Bernardo Hooded Jacket  paired with  Zella Leggings  and  UGG Lorna Boots

The  ibex packable down jacket  is a new find I’ve fallen in love with. I was shocked at how warm I was in this jacket despite how thin and lightweight it is.

I’ve worn it in temperatures ranging from 25F – 40F and layered it only over a J Crew Tee and separately just over a merino wool thermal. I’m so impressed that I now take it with me everywhere whenever I need extra layers!

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Amazon | Columbia | Moosejaw | REI

Columbia makes popular travel wear for women who love the outdoors. They offer easy-care clothing that is functional, light, wrinkle-resistant, and quick dry. As a bonus, this brand has affordable pricing and a wide variety of sizes, such as regular, petite, tall, and plus.

TFGs particularly love their extensive selection of travel pants, including the Columbia Saturday Trail Straight Leg Pant and the bestselling Arcadia Rain Jacket . Our readers are also big fans of their easy-to-wear dresses, especially the Freezer Dress Collection , available in a range of lengths.

travel-clothing-brands

Columbia Carson Pass 2 Waterproof Winter Jacket

I like Columbia for their insanely warm yet affordable outerwear options. If I’m traveling in the winter, I want to stay dry and warm so I can spend all-day sightseeing regardless of the elements. The Carson Pass 2 Waterproof Coat is one of my all-time favorite winter jackets for home and travel. Read my full review of this jacket!

best-travel-pants-for-women

Shop Athleta:  Regular 00-26  |  Tall 00-16  |  Petite 00-14

Though Athleta is known for athleisure clothing, readers say they actually offer travel clothes women love for travel, and rave about a numbe of stylish and functional pieces! 

For instance, TFGs highly recommend the Athleta Brooklyn Pants . They’re cute, comfy, and stretchy in all the right places and the ribbed waistband moves with you. And with several pockets, you can stash small essentials for a flight or a day of sightseeing. 

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XXS-3X: Athleta Santorini Midi Dress

Many readers also recommend the Santorini Midi Dress , saying it’s a dream for trekking around in the blistering heat while staying cool, dry, and fashionable!

The Athleta Stellar Leggings are also a reader’s top fave, made from a luxurious Italian fabric that is designed for movement, yet they have a flexible fit and feel smooth, and look flattering.

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Quilted Quarter-Zip Pullover

A brand that makes reliable travel apparel is L.L Bean . They offer solid basics and standard, petite, tall, and plus sizing options.

If you plan on camping or glamping this summer, take the Quilted Quarter-Zip Pullover to stay warm, and also pack the  L.L Bean Linen Shirt as a comfy and airy choice. Readers also rave about their Tropic Wear Quick Drying Pants that are excellent for hiking excursions or a backpacking trip, and readers say they pack easily.

best travel clothing sets

Shop Sizes XS-3X:  Short-Sleeve Crewneck Pima Cotton Tee

The L.L. Bean Pima Tee is travel-ready and a huge seller! Made of Supima® cotton wrinkle-resistant fabric, it’s a comfortable and sustainable shirt that also dries quickly. It’s perfect for layering on chillier days.

If you’re looking for layering items, the Silk Long John Top and Bottoms are popular for their comfortable feel, weightless warmth, and wide size range. Terrific to stay warm for a wintry trip!

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Betabrand:  Sizes XS-3X  |  Petite XS-3X  |  Short Petite XS-3X  |  Long S-3X

Betabrand is best known for their Dressy Yoga Pants , which look polished but feel as comfortable as yoga pants! While the fabric is thicker than most traditional travel clothes, it’s their durability and versatility that make Betabrand pants a good option for travel. 

In addition, their Canopy Dress is also popular for female travelers looking for longer hemlines, wrinkle-resistant fabrics, and a classic cut you can wear anywhere!  Betabrand has a vast size selection, including XS-3X Plus and their paints offer four inseam choices: regular, short petite, petite, and tall.

best travel clothing sets

Shop Sizes Petite-Maxi: The Chrysalis Cardi Convertible Dress

Encircled is a Canadian company that specializes in sustainable, stylish, and packable travel clothes that are versatile for everyday wear as well. You probably know them for their popular Chrysalis Cardi , a garment that can create 8 different looks, such as a skirt, dress, cardigan, or wrap. Talk about reducing how much you pack!

Read my Chrysalis Cardi Dress review !

travel-clothing-brands

The Chrysalis Cardi with Comfort Sandals (similar)

Some of their other bestselling pieces are their Dressy Sweatpant Jogger , Evolve Top , and the Long Sleeve Revolve Dress .

Their travel clothing line has expanded to include shirts, blouses, pants, jumpsuits, skirts, jackets, and more!

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XS-XL:  Toad&Co  |  Zappos  |  Moosejaw

Toad & Co.

For some of the best travel clothing for women , Toad & Co. offers casual basics and vacation-ready dresses in breathable fabrics that are oh-so-comfortable.

The stylish Toad&Co Taj Hemp Pants have UPF 25+ for ultimate sun protection, so you won’t need to overdo the sunscreen. And they’re moisture-wicking and dry quickly in the heat, all hallmarks of travel pants worth packing.

travel-clothing-brands

Toad and Co. Sunkissed Dress: Toad&Co | Amazon | Moosejaw | Backcountry in Sizes S-XL

I’ve worn the Toad&Co UPF sun protection dress .  The lightweight fabric is water-friendly, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking, plus it is UPF 40 protective. It’s made from recycled polyester and waterless dyes, so you can rest assured you’re doing your bit for the planet.

If you prefer a shorter length, the lovely Cue Short Sleeve Dress features cap sleeves, a tie at the waist, and a flowy skirt, making it a stylish and versatile option that still gives you the practicality you’re looking for in a breathable dress. Their clothes ae endlessly unique but accessible for travel!

Their clothing is also available on Amazon !

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes 00-18 Petite, Short and Tall: Amazon | Prana | Moosejaw | Backcountry

prAna was first introduced as yoga wear, but it has since expanded into a line of comfy women travel clothes that come in a range of sizing, inseams, and moderate price points. 

Their best selling Halle Travel Pants   are endlessly stretchy, durable, and versatile for more activity or dressing up for dinner. If you’re looing for a pair of convertible hiking pants, try their popular Monarch pants . Here’s a full review of why these are great for outdoor excursions!

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Jewel Lake Dress

Another highly touted item that readers love are prAna’s ultra-cute yet practical travel dresses , like the Jewel Lake dress ! It features a comfortable high neck with criss-cross straps in the back, and the bust features an interior shelf bra with mesh lining.

So it makes sense they also make some of the greatest t-shirts, including their popular Foundation Short Sleeve V Neck Top .

Travelers Classic No Tummy Pants

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Chico’s No Tummy Pants

Chico’s is a new favorite for their classic, versatile clothing. This brand has a dedicated Travelers Collection , with no-wrinkle, easy-to-pack fabrics. Some faves are the  Travelers Classic No Tummy Pants , which have a pull-on, elastic waist for an easy-chic look, and the Classic Short Sleeve Maxi Dress that’s stylish and super versatile, and looks fab with white sneakers or sandals .

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Chico’s Eyelet Tank Tops

Chico’s Tank Tops are also popular and ideal for layering; they’re versatle and soft to the touch. Chico’s also has a No Iron Shirt Collection , so you can wear a blouse right out of your suitcase without annoying wrinkles to contend with! 

If you want clean lines and a more sophisticated look, this travel clothing brand is highly recommended! 

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes PP-3X:  Eileen Fisher

Eileen Fisher 

Eileen Fisher  has been a long time favorite of the TFG readers, particularly those that are looking for functional yet elegant basics in longer lengths and wider designs. While I didn’t own any of the brand’s clothing despite how much the readers raved about them for travel, I finally got hooked when I bought their linen tunic shirts on sale!

travel-clothing-brands

Eileen Fisher Linen Shirt with Wallaroo Sun Hat  

Like the Eddie Bauer button-down mentioned before, I discovered this Eileen Fisher linen dress and fell in love with it for hot and humid destinations! It’s SO versatile and chic, and the best part, the linen keeps me nice and cool. I wear it as a blouse tucked into my denim, worn as a tunic over jeans or leggings, and as a beach cover-up dress .

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XS-XL: REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie 

REI is a wonderful source for adventure travelers to stock up on comfortable clothing that’s durable and lightweight, but overall, this retailer is fantastic for general travel gear—be it clothes, shoes, or backpacks .

A true hiking staple, the REI Co-op Sahara T-shirt wicks sweat, dries quickly, and shades you with solid UPF 30 sun protection. While the REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie  is built for the trail with a tech-tee-like knit that wicks moisture and provides shade.

REI is a wonderful source for adventure travelers to stock up on comfortable clothing that moves as you do, but overall, it’s just a fantastic option to grab general gear for travel, be it clothes, shoes, or backpacks .

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes 0-26W: REI Co-op Sahara convertible Pants

If you love rushing streams and tricky switchbacks, then REI Co-op Sahara convertible Pants are ideal. They even convert into shorts easily while on the trail! For airflow and freedom of movement, it’s hard to beat a dress—especially one designed for hiking, like the cool, stretchy, multi-pocketed REI Co-op Sahara dress .

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Uniqlo

This Japanese brand is especially noteworthy for their AIRism and HeatTECH collections, which are available at a low price point. AIRism fabric is light, breathable, and quick-drying. Their tanks, camis, and tees are the perfect absorbent, anti-odor underlayer.

They take up almost no space, are easy to hand-wash, and dry quickly. There are also AIRism bras, panties, and leggings. HEATTECH innerwear has heat-retaining properties and is great to wear as a base layer in cold climates. 

One of TFG’s writers likes wearing her HEATTECH tights under jeans during winter travel, and another loves their lighter layers. Read her review here !

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XS-3X Regular, Petite & Tall :  Spanx

Spanx is previously known for shapewear, but they’ve since expanded into clothing that’s functional, fashionable, and flattering!  

Readers particularly love their comfortable, lightweight pants, specifically the AirEssentials Wide Leg Pants , which are perfect for traveling in a car, plane, or train. Feel free to check out the entire AirEssentials Collection , especially the stretchy and cute AirEssentials Jumpsuit , which is an all-in-one outfit for travel!

In addition to AirEssentials, we can’t forget the Perfect Pants , which are more polished but still have their famous stretch and comfort. The entire Perfect Collection is ideal for those wanting to travel to Europe due to its sophisticated, simple pieces or for frequent business travelers or remote workers.

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Spanx Faux Leather Leggings

Other popular traveling pants styles are the Spanx Faux Leather Leggings . While leggings are not as in style as they used to be, they’re still popular for travel overall. I love their faux leather leggings because they’re comfy yet stylish and versatile—able to be worn dressed down or up. I wear them as a part of a plane outfit, all the way to sightseeing or dinner out. Here’s my full review of them!

In addition to travel apparel brands, there are certain regular brands that are absolutely amazing for travel, too.

https://travelfashiongirlpostphotos.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/2020/Best+Travel+Clothing+Brands/travel-clothing-brands-36.jpeg

Shop Sizes XXXS-3X:  J.Crew Eloise Travel Blazer

If you want chic women’s travel clothes for Europe , TFG readers recommend J. Crew’s classic styles and quality that will last for years. In fact, one of the recurring comments about their Classic Denim Jacket is its long-lasting quality.

This J.Crew Cecile Blazer is similar to the beloved Eloise Blazer and is made of a cotton and merino wool blend. While it’s super cozy and great for layering during the fall and winter, it’s lightweight and versatile for year-round wearing, yet the sophisticated look is balanced out by an easy, relaxed fit.

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes XXS-3X: J.Crew Vintage Cotton T-shirt

The top selling Vintage Cotton T-shirt features a drapey fabric that’s insanely comfortable, plus a figure-flattering slim fit. This is the perfect chic option to pair with cute pants and flats for a fashionable day wandering Paris .

And finally, peruse the J.Crew Dress Collection , because readers swear by their stylish selection for any season, but especially for spring and summer!

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Anthropologie:  Sizes 23-34  |  Tall 23-34  |  Petite 23-34  |  Plus 16W-26W

While Anthropologie has a more trendy vibe, I’ve discovered a few pieces that I’ve fallen in love with. One is the Colette Collection by Maeve , which includes comfy pants and shorts that come in an endless variety of colors, fabrics, and inseam options. Furthermore, many brands carried at Anthropologie also have inclusive sizing, such as regular, petite, tall, and plus.

I own the Colette Linen Wide Leg Pants and wore them on a recent trip; I felt so put together for my travel day without sacrificing comfort — they were very airy, and seriously felt weightless!  They have the feel of sweatpants but look incredibly chic and polished and they’ve now become my go-to pant for everything – including travel, flights, conferences, and everyday wear.

 And while their Vacation Dress Collection has some on-trend pieces, there are also more simple lightweight choices that are ideal for a beach vacay or a hot destination!

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Madewell Wide Leg Jeans:  Nordstrom  |  Madewell  (Sizes 23-33)

Madewell is an eternal reader fave due to their sustainable, comfortable clothing and inclusive sizing. Readers love their Cropped Wide Leg Jeans , with one saying they’re “so comfortable and so flattering and versatile”.

Another reader-approved pick is the Madewell Wide Leg Linen Pants . They’re airy but have a more polished look that can still be dressed casually.

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes 00-16: Madewell Layton Midi Slip Dress

While TFGs love Madewell for their pants (and lots more), it’s their Dress Collection that they flock to during the summer. You can choose from short, midi,  maxi, and printed dresses. 

A great example is the chic and cute Midi Slip Dress pictured. While it’s on-trend, the lines are still simple and versatile, and would look amazing with black sneakers , sandals , or wedges ! 

travel-clothing-brands

Shop J Jill:  Regular XS-XL  |  Petite XSP-XLP  |  Tall ST-XLT

Readers love J.Jill for their timeless, mature clothing and bonus, they offer a broad size range including regular, petite, and tall. 

The Wearever Black Slim-Leg Pants are voted by TFG readers as some of the best pants for travel! They’re knit, made with an elastic waist for movement and stretch, and create a flattering shape. 

They wash very easily, dry quickly, and are wrinkle-resistant. A must-have travel pant!

travel-clothing-brands

Shop Sizes 24:33:  Lululemon City Sleek 5 Pocket High-Rise Wide-Leg Pant

Lululemon isn’t the most affordable brand, but many women swear by their apparel. They don’t just make amazing athletic wear for the gym, but they also make comfortable clothing that’s perfect for traveling and long-haul flights. Readers say investing in a pair of Stretch High Rise 7/8 Pants are worth it! They’re comfy, cute, and will last years. 

These Lululemon Comfortable Travel Dresses are also a great pick because they’re wrinkle-resistant, sweat-wicking, and have quick-drying properties, so you can wear them throughout your trip and stay fresh!

travel-clothing-brands

Do you really need “travel” clothing?

For most types of travel, you won’t ever need specialty travel clothing. You just have to follow some simple guidelines to shop your own closet. ( Download my free guide here .) On the other hand, there are some trips that require clothing with more technical fabrics and construction such as active adventures, long-term travel, or  round-the-world trips .

If you’re going on vacation, certain types of travel clothing can also help you pack lighter and more efficiently, too.  Many times, the fabrics in the clothing are breathable, quick dry, compact, and lightweight. Others offer clever ways to get more use from your clothing such as reversible features or multi-way styles.

travel-clothing-brands

Enjoying  Rome  in my  Gevomir Halter Summer Dress with my  Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody Purse and Taos Plim Soul Sneaker

The challenge is that most of the brands that create functional clothing forget to think about the needs of the woman wearing the clothing. Sometimes I think they forget the woman part entirely and just make smaller versions of mens clothes.

Over the years, I’ve tried just about every brand out there, in search of the trifecta of fashion, form, and function and I’ve found that some work far better than others. That’s why you’ll hear so much about certain brands repeatedly on the blog – they’re just so good in comparison to the rest. And that’s also why you never read about certain  other  brands – I’m not a fan of gimmicks and I know you aren’t either.

Want to pack light, find out how  packing cubes  can maximize the space in your bag  here !

What do you think are the best travel apparel brands for women? Share them with us in the comments!

For more travel clothes and packing tips, please read:

  • How to Pack Carry-on Only for Every Trip
  • Most Cute and Comfortable Travel Shoes
  • Best Convertible Dresses for Travel
  • Best Anti-theft Purses for Travelers

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

travel-clothing-brands

Hope you liked this post on the top travel clothing brands for women. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

25 comments.

NikkiB

I would like to know what brand of grey flat shoes you are wearing in the photo.

Alex

Hi NikkiB, I am wearing my Skechers Pureflex Skechers Mary Janes flats: https://amzn.to/3jPVJi2

Kathi

Good piece, thanks! Another brand that you might mention is Sympli, a Canadian line of clothing. It’s spendy but the fabric and quality are outstanding. I have several of their basic pieces and all make great, non-wrinkling travel options. The only drawback is that they’re not always fast-drying, so I bring them on short trips or trips where I won’t be changing hotels every night.

Hi Kathi, thank you for your comment, so pleased you enjoyed the post!! Thank you for sharing your review of the brand Sympli with us! 🙂

Darlene

I love Sympli, but the fabric is heavy. If you are concerned about the weight of your suitcase, only bring a couple of pieces.

NickNgaruiya

Thanks, for that. This is the really good article for the traveler. Who wants to travel anywhere and they have no idea which type of clothes should take it.

Hi Nick, thank you so much for your lovely comment, so pleased you found it helpful!! 🙂

kate

These all look like great brands, but all US companies. I guess most of your readers are in the US but the rest of us could do with some help too! Ordering from the US can be expensive, with import duties, plus returns are problematic so what about including some great European brands?

Hi Kate, thank you for taking the time to share your insight! Let me look into this for you 🙂

Tania Danilenko

It has probably been said a million times already, but EnCircled is da bomb. Their Dressy Sweatpants, Chrysalis Cardi, Evolve Top and Everyday Twist Top, and you’re good for the weekend!

Hi Tania, thank you so much for sharing your insight! 🙂

Suzanne

And how about sophisticated plus size travel wear in great fabrics? Unicorn. 😉

Phebe

Suzanne, search for “plus size” here at TFG – there are several articles written by several of us who are members. Hope that helps you!

CathyC

He best travel clothing I have found is Tilley. It is packable, can be washed and hung to dry overnight and lasts forever! Their travel jersey is versatile enough to wear casually or dress up .. cant be beaten as far as I am concerned!

alex

I”m sorry, this stuff is just yoga clothing and much of it is either really cheap, or cheap and slutty. You’re going to get on a business class seat in that Anatomie stuff? Seriously. Prana is fine, but isn’t there somebody out there that makes sophisticated clothing that is still in packable fabrics?

Hi Nancy, sorry you feel that way. We’ll let you know if we find anything more suitable to your needs.

Karen Mortazavi

I think Nancy’s comment is a little harsh…..but, I would like some great travel clothes that are not clingy and you don’t have to be pencil thin to wear. I’m not a plus size but I am curvy so many of these clothes are not going to look good on me. Any other ideas for clothes with some structure but won’t wrinkle?

Linda

I love theLuLuwrap It is the perfect travel accessory. It’s so versatile you can wear it eleven different ways easily creating a chic and stylish look for any ensemble, anytime, anywhere!

Sheila

Linda…could you link to this? I’m trying to find it but there are several things that sound kind of like it and not sure which item yoyre referring to. Thanks!

Linda

Also great is TravelSmith catalog!

thanks for the tip!

Sara

Icebreaker dresses are my go-to for travel! I also love SmartWool: a little pricier but lasts even longer!

alex

Great brands!! Love both of them!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

best travel clothing sets

26 Travel Outfit Essentials for Women

Add slip-on shoes, cozy pashminas, and compression leggings to your packing list.

best travel outfit ideas for women on oprah daily

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

When it comes to travel, we know you need to find the perfect balance between comfort and style. After all, it’s great to look put together while hopping on a flight, but not at the cost of your comfort—especially on long-haul trips. Rest assured, we've curated a list of wardrobe essentials to achieve flawless travel and airport outfits, whether you are exploring a new destination for business or pleasure.

When it comes to the best travel outfits for women, accessories play a critical role in keeping you comfy and organized. All you have to do is remember a comfortable pair of shoes , compression socks to keep things moving, an eye mask that's an upgrade from the one the airline provides, and a chic shawl that doubles as a blanket. And of course, no travel outfit would be complete without a fashionable (and functional!) carry-on bag on your arm or atop your luggage . This bag should house all of your essentials and still level up your airport outfit. Keep reading for some of the best travel and airport outfit ideas your next trip.

Missky Long-Sleeved Oversize Pant Set

Long-Sleeved Oversize Pant Set

You might look like you're already on vacation if you show up to the airport in this neutral pants and button-down set. Available in two bright and two neutral colors, and sizes small to 2XL.

Spanx AirEssentials Wide-Leg Pants

AirEssentials Wide-Leg Pants

Sometimes nothing less than sweats will do, and here is where Spanx really excels. Oprah picked these for her 2022 Favorite Things , saying, “You might know Spanx for its shapewear, but it also does fantastic cozy clothes. When I tell you this set feels light as air, I’m not kidding. It’s my new leisure suit. The perfectly loose-and-lightweight fabric is like buttah!”

Dr. Scholl's Time Off Platform Sneakers

Time Off Platform Sneakers

Celebrated for their consciously comfortable footwear, these sneakers from Dr. Scholl's are tricked out with tons of features for all-day comfort. Inside, anatomical cushioning and arch support keep you covered while a lightweight, anti-slip platform sole protects on the outside. This minimalist sneaker looks just as good with a matching suit as it does a low-key sweat set.

Vuori Elevation Trouser in Midnight Heather

Elevation Trouser in Midnight Heather

Vuori is celebrated for its super-cozy pieces. The best thing about these pants? They look put together while the stretch-knit fabric is as comfy as your favorite Vuori loungers. The high-rise waist and loose fit of the leg give you an effortlessly stylish silhouette.

Chico's Travelers No Tummy Pants

Travelers No Tummy Pants

Chico's Travelers collection is made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics in comfortable silhouettes. Thanks to a pull-on waist and front darts, these No Tummy Pants are flattering and always look put together. If red isn't your vibe, they come in three other colors as well as the bestselling wide-leg Hutton pants in black.

Girlfriend Collective Compressive Pocket Legging

Compressive Pocket Legging

Leggings are a perfect choice for traveling wear. And these have Oprah's seal of approval, as they were picked for Oprah's 2022 Favorite Things list. Eco-friendly and size-inclusive (the range goes through 6XL), these compression leggings are available in a plethora of hues. Plus, they feature double-side seaming and pockets.

J. Crew Cashmere-Wool Travel Wrap

Cashmere-Wool Travel Wrap

Let's be honest, you can't always count on the airline's blankets to keep you warm, and some even leave annoying fluff behind. Stay warm and stylish with your own wearable blanket by way of this travel necessity from J. Crew that comes in eight different colors.

Original Puffer Hug Scarf

Original Puffer Hug Scarf

If you're traveling for business to a location that you're not thrilled about, chances are you are in need of a hug. Don't worry, this puffer hug scarf doubles as a warm wrap to keep you cozy and a hug to make you feel loved. It's fleece-lined with deep pockets so you can also store your ID and credit card without any issues.

Athleta Everlasting Button-Down Top

Everlasting Button-Down Top

A classic button-down is a travel essential that elevates any in-transit look. Athleta's Everlasting button-down has all the details you need: a lightweight, odor-control stretch fabric and longer length for coverage. Luckily, you can cover all your neutral bases with navy, black, and white. Plus, it comes in an extended range of sizes from XXS to 3X.

Dr. Motion Compression Socks with Enhanced Cushioning (3 Pack)

Compression Socks with Enhanced Cushioning (3 Pack)

Compression socks are always a good ideal for traveling. We recommend these styles from Dr. Motion that offer graduated compression of 8 to 15 mmHg while providing arch support. Unlike other socks that can feel scratchy or clammy, these are soft, moisture-wicking, and subtly cushioned.

Hoka Transport GTX Sneakers

Transport GTX Sneakers

Hoka's sneakers are cult Oprah Daily office favorites and podiatrist-approved . Not only do they look good with just about everything, but the Transport GTX also offer quick-toggle lacing for an easy on-off, as well as a full-length EVA midsole for the highest level of cushioning and arch support.

32º DEGREES Lightweight Recycled Poly-Fill Shirt Jacket

Lightweight Recycled Poly-Fill Shirt Jacket

Sometimes a full on coat is not needed for travel, but you can never be quite sure of the weather. That's why a a little packable shacket—part shirt, part jacket—comes in. In black, olive green, or dark blue, the jacket will be your go-to for travel. Keep in mind, it runs slightly big in order to allow for comfortable layering of hoodies or sweaters underneath. There's a reason why Oprah tapped it on her Favorite Things list .

Spanx Perfect Pant High-Rise Flare

Perfect Pant High-Rise Flare

The perfect pant does not exist—wait, yes it does, and here it is. This high-rise flare option is designed with premium ponte fabric and a comfortable pull-on design for maximum comfort and easy styling on your flight. Plus, it comes in size XS to 3X, so there's something for everyone.

JW PEI Aylin Canvas Cellphone Crossbody Bag

Aylin Canvas Cellphone Crossbody Bag

Making sure you have all your essentials when going through airport security can be tough, but with this crossbody, you'll have your phone and cards right at hand.

K. Carroll Accessories Taylor Tote Red

Taylor Tote Red

These vegan suede totes are great for hauling all your in-flight essentials, with plenty of room. There are a range of colors to choose from. "Not too big or too small, this vegan suede tote is just the right size for your on-the-go loved one in need of a stylish solution," Oprah said when highlighting the Taylor tote on her 2022 Favorite Things list.

Spanx Women's AirEssentials 1/2 Zip Sweater

Women's AirEssentials 1/2 Zip Sweater

Sometimes nothing less than sweats will do, and here is where Spanx really excels. Oprah picked this top for her 2023 Favorite Things , saying, “Wow. Wow. Wow. May I tell you I got this set last year? I wore it in a photo shoot for O Quarterly and never looked back...” Why not pair it with the coordinating wide-leg pants for a full sweatsuit?

Everlane Organic Cotton Honeycomb Cardigan

Organic Cotton Honeycomb Cardigan

This gorgeous honeycomb cotton cardigan is part of the latest iteration of Everlane Editions: The Art of Spring Layering. Crafted from responsibly sourced and lower-impact materials, this 100 percent organic cotton knit is ideal for layering before, during, and after your flight.

Asutra Silk Eye Mask & Pillow

Silk Eye Mask & Pillow

Oprah chose this eye mask for her 2023 Favorite Things list. "Sleeping with a mask is life-changing—I cannot tell you how much the quality of my sleep has improved," she said. "This weighted 100 percent silk one stays down and doesn’t let even a pinch of light in.” Co-owned by superstar Venus Williams, Asustra produces eye pillows that are filled with lavender and flax. Whether you want to meditate or snooze during your flight, this adjustable mask will definitely relax you.

Frankie 4 Triple Layered-Support and Cushion Liberty Black Boots

Triple Layered-Support and Cushion Liberty Black Boots

If it's not on your radar yet, Frankie 4 is a podiatrist-designed and female-founded shoe line that offers insanely comfortable footwear. These are the perfect black boots to run around the airport and to wear on your trip as your professional or going out shoes.

Naadam Original 100 Percent Cashmere Sweater

Original 100 Percent Cashmere Sweater

Warm, soft, and chic—few things are as reliable as a plain cashmere sweater. At under $100, Naadam's perfect crewneck comes in core and limited-edition hues. Pro tip: Order a size or two larger than your usual for an ultra-cozy fit. And what's more, the sweater is machine-washable (yes, you read that right).

Sara Klausing covers all things fashion and style for Oprah Daily . Follow her on Instagram .

preview for Oprah Daily US - Style Playlist

The Brouk & Co. Tote Is on Sale at Amazon

stylish spring shoes

Hit Refresh with These Stylish Spring Shoes

plus sized easter dress on oprah daily

The Prettiest Plus-Size Easter Dresses

spring jackets for women 2024 on oprah daily

Spring Jackets to Embrace the New Season in Style

30th annual screen actors guild awards arrivals

Adam Glassman on Style at the 2024 SAG Awards

spring sweaters for women on oprah daily

Hit Refresh with These Stylish Spring Sweaters

best bikinis for women on oprah daily

14 Bikinis to Flatter Different Body Types

best pajamas for women 2023

20 Pajama Sets That Are the Epitome of Cozy

spring dresses for women on oprah daily

Spring Dresses for Women of All Shapes and Sizes

best one piece swimsuits for women

Flattering One-Piece Swimsuits to Shop Now

best white sneakers for women on oprah daily

Chic White Sneakers That Go with Everything

best travel clothing sets

17 Best Travel Clothing Brands for Men and Women

Jeremy Scott Foster

  • Last Modified: November 25, 2023

best travel clothing sets

TravelFreak is reader supported. Your engagement on this site allows us to bring you this content for free. Because this website contains affiliate links, if you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This has absolutely no effect on our recommendations or evaluations. Thank you for supporting our mission!

Are you looking to revamp your packing list for an upcoming hiking trip? Maybe shopping for some winter gear for a journey up north? Or perhaps you’re simply on the hunt for standard cotton tees to add to your travel wardrobe.

Buying from a reputable clothing brand means you won’t have to replace the clothes you own year over year. I believe in investing in quality gear that will last a lifetime.

I know that looking for travel clothes can be a little overwhelming. Not only that, but it’s easy for outdoor and travel gear to get expensive quickly.

Biting the bullet and dropping some cash on that shirt or dress can feel daunting. Just remember: buying the right travel clothing now means not having to do so again for a long, long time.

I want to help you make your search for new travel clothes easier. In this list, I’m covering my favorite travel clothing brands of all kinds, to help you find the best quality gear. I personally wear these brands all the time.

Here is a list of the best travel clothing brands for both men and women.

  • Best Travel Clothes Overall: One Golden Thread
  • Best Budget Travel Clothes: Columbia
  • Best Adventure Travel Clothes: Arc’teryx
  • Best Ethically Sourced Travel Clothes: Patagonia
  • Best Business Travel Clothes: Bluffworks
  • Best Athletic Travel Clothes: prAna
  • Best Travel Underwear: ExOfficio
  • Best Merino Wool Selection:   Unbound Merino
  • Best Stain Resistant Clothes: Ably
  • Best Women’s Travel Clothes: Athleta
  • Best Travel Shoes: Vessi Footwear
  • Best For Travel Baselayers: Icebreaker
  • Best Men’s Travel Clothes: Western Rise
  • Best Travel Pants:   KÜHL
  • Best Travel Socks: Darn Tough Socks
  • Best Travel Jackets: Eddie Bauer
  • Most Durable Travel Clothes: Mountain Hardwear

1. One Golden Thread : Best Travel Clothes Overall

best travel clothing sets

One Golden Thread makes functional, fashionable clothing with feeling. Made from a blend of regenerative Beech Tree fiber and combed ring-spun Cotton, the OGT lineup has perhaps the most comfortable threads I’ve ever worn. Seriously. After I got my Crew Neck Tree Shirt and the Tree Pant , I wore the set for three days straight.

Equally functional and stylish, these clothes will work just as well on a long-haul flight, a light hike, a day at the beach or a night out in a new city. They’re highly versatile and seriously soft. I’ll never wear another set of clothes on a flight ever again.

Alongside the cut, it’s the Beech Tree fiber that really makes the OGT lineup stand out. As far as I know, no other company is producing clothing from this material. That means there’s a good chance you haven’t felt the level of comfort these threads provide. With a 30-day return policy, you might as well try—you’ve got nothing to lose.

Their versatility allows for more minimalist travel. You can bring fewer things for more possibility.

From their 5-pocket Tree Pant , to the 98% five-star review Tree Shirt , wear the feeling of home wherever you roam. And for every item you purchase, One Golden Thread plants a tree. So, as you travel, you are a part of, as they say, re-generosity. It’s so golden.

2. Columbia : Best Budget Travel Clothes

best travel clothing sets

Columbia has been a household name for travel clothes in North America for a long time and continues to earn that distinction. Most of you have probably owned Columbia gear at one time or another. If not, you absolutely should. Everything is reasonably priced, and you can wear it for every stage of your trip, even to chillier destinations.

Columbia’s Omni-Heat fabric is perfect for colder climates, and I’ve found this technology to be especially useful when applied to their pants. I personally own a pair of Omni-Heat pants, and I wear them all the time for winter and snow-related activities.

Columbia also produces a large selection of standard cotton shirts that you can wear for just about any occasion. They’re very budget-friendly and the cotton is lightweight, breathable, and cozy for long days on the road. They also make one of the best rain jackets out there, and it doesn’t break the bank.

On a broader scale, all of Columbia’s fabrics are comfortable and adequately durable. Take note, however, that I’ve found the lower price equals slightly less durability for some of their products. While I love how Columbia clothes fit and function, I’ve also found them to wear out earlier than other brands.

3. Arc’teryx : Best Adventure Travel Clothes

best travel clothing sets

If you’re interested in the most up-to-date technological innovations in outdoor gear and travel clothing, consider Arc’teryx . More than other travel clothing brands, they focus on the performance of their clothes, along with a ruggedly practical design.

Their bread and butter is technical adventure gear for sports, like climbing and mountaineering. Therefore, you’re guaranteed durable and performance-driven garb designed to be put through the wringer.

While all their technical information can be daunting, Arc’teryx does its best to deliver easy-to-understand details about its features. You should be able to make the most informed decision about the best travel clothes to buy.

Plus, their selection is hardly limited to extreme sports. They also have a large variety of general outdoor clothing—everything from trail running pants to innovative hiking boots—making Arc’teryx one of the best outdoor clothing brands on the market. I love this company for this reason, along with the fact that they tend to inject very snappy colors into their clothing designs.

Arc’teryx is also a fantastic resource for cold-weather gear, and their incredibly warm snow pants and jackets are phenomenal. They also offer an array of bags for city and backcountry adventures.

4. Patagonia : Best Ethically Sourced Travel Clothes

best travel clothing sets

My packing list for  anywhere  will forever and always include Patagonia , and so should yours. In terms of travel clothing, Patagonia has just about every essential item you could need. Their clothes are an integral part of my travel wardrobe, whether I’m transiting an airport or hiking up a mountain on a chilly morning to catch a sunrise.

Patagonia uses a variety of high-quality fabrics while staying committed to fair business practices. What’s more, they are incredibly active in nature and wildlife conservation efforts around the world.

Patagonia’s quality is unparalleled. They use the highest quality fabric and manufacturing processes available for their gear (which is why they make some of the best midlayers out there). Furthermore, they’re very transparent about where they source those materials, and it’s all ethical.

In terms of style, Patagonia likes to use bright patterns and colors in their designs, making each item very distinguishable and snazzy. Both men and women will also have plenty of choices in Patagonia’s massive catalog. I’ve found the colors and wide range of options fit my style perfectly, and many of my favorite clothes come from here.

One of those favorites includes a pair of durable pants that I’ve used for both sleeper trains and long days on the trail. I wear these travel pants (along with my other favorite Patagonia clothing items) all the time. They’re durable, they look great, and they carry well.

Amongst all the labels listed here, I have to say that Patagonia is definitely one of the best for stylish travel clothing combined with high durability and a great warranty. Plus their charitable program, Patagonia Action Works, has been supporting conservation efforts for over 40 years. Their brand ethically sources all its materials and labor, so you can feel good about where your money is going.

5. Bluffworks : Best Business Travel Clothes

best travel clothing sets

Bluffworks combines high fashion with durable travel clothing that can be worn anywhere, especially at the office. They aim to unite your travel wardrobe with your everyday wardrobe to make lasting yet fashionable clothing.

They successfully combine performance, style and fabric quality. I’d wear their clothes just about anywhere in the world. If you need stylish clothing for travel and everyday wear, Bluffworks’ travel clothing line is a great option.

You should note that they have a small catalog, but the quality more than makes up for the lack of choices.

Bluffworks is perfect for traveling in cities because they use moisture-wicking and wrinkle-resistant fabrics, so you can explore for hours while still looking presentable. Their aesthetic isn’t flashy by any means, but their clothes are well-made and high-class.

Bluffworks certainly takes no shortcuts when it comes to their materials. In my opinion, it’s the style and quality inherent in every one of their products that distinguishes Bluffworks and earns them a slot on this list as being one of the best travel clothing brands .

6. prAna : Best Athletic Travel Clothes

best travel clothing sets

If you’re packing lightweight and looking for stylish but athletic travel clothing, look to prAna! They specialize in sustainable yoga clothing that’s also fantastic for travel and outdoor use. They’ve been doing so for years. They also place a premium on durability and quality, both of which are essential attributes for travel-friendly clothing.

You might have heard the buzz about their leggings and pants—they’re comfy, moisture-wicking, they have an athletic fit, and they last forever. Although prAna clothing has plenty of styles (they have an incredible selection of patterns and colors), their most significant focus is on performance.

First of all, prAna’s clothing has tons of comfort. prAna uses super-soft fabrics and smart designs to keep you comfortable during almost any activity by wicking away excess perspiration and providing ample breathability in warm climates. For example, they make excellent travel dresses for women featuring very lightweight cotton fabric that’s perfect for a night out or a day exploring nature.

Like many of the top travel clothing brands, prAna places a big emphasis on sustainability. They use recycled and natural fabrics like hemp, organic cotton, and recycled polyester, and they make timeless pieces that are designed to last.

They also have a performance-oriented cut that promotes a full range of motion and an athletic fit. If you’re looking for comfortable yet durable travel clothes that can keep up with you wherever you go, whether it’s a hiking trail or a new city, Prana is an excellent choice.

7. ExOfficio : Best Travel Underwear

ExOfficio bug repellant clothing

I would wear almost anything from the ExOfficio lineup. They have been part of the outdoor community since 1987, and their primary market is insect and sun-repellent clothing. For that reason, hiking and backpacking travelers should check out ExOfficio for all their active gear.

ExOfficio also offers an excellent array of travel clothing accessories like bug-repellent hats and bandanas and underwear utilizing comfortable fabrics built specifically for travel. It’s all in the details, and I think that’s where ExOfficio shines.

They also use a range of eco-friendly materials in their underwear and base layers.

ExOfficio is very passionate about the science behind their products. They used advanced fabrics like merino wool clothing and high-tech anti-microbial treatments. I highly encourage you to look at ExOfficio for practical outdoor travel clothing—especially their underwear!

8. Unbound Merino : Best Merino Wool Selection

best travel clothing sets

Unbound Merino is a brand that takes advantage of one of the best clothing materials available out there—merino wool. They’re one of the best merino wool brands on the market, using very high-quality merino wool, which further boosts the quality of their final products—spectacular travel clothes, especially when it comes to shirts and tops.

But let’s talk fabric for a moment. Merino wool is a particular type of wool with spectacular temperature regulation and anti-bacterial properties. It is a wrinkle-resistant fabric that keeps you comfortable in warm or cold weather. It’s also a natural material and is one of the most sustainable fabrics out there!

Unbound Merino has harnessed this merino wool perfectly. They keep fashion in mind when designing simple garments with all the power of this glorious fabric. One shirt can take you from the airport to a city tour to a nice dinner on the town, and still look and smell great at every stage of the day thanks to the anti-bacterial properties.

Unbound Merino has become my go-to for merino wool clothing, largely because of their versatility. They pack in a great travel style that’s ready for everything from urban travel to lounging in the hotel room.

Unbound Merino also pledges to use high-quality fabrics and to avoid fast fashion tactics. In terms of spectacular textile and lightweight clothing, Unbound Merino is undoubtedly one of my favorites for comfortable travel.

9. Ably : Best Stain-Resistant Clothes

best travel clothing sets

Ably is another one of those brands that value smart and practical clothing for people who are often on the road. They are a Seattle-based brand whose mission is to design odor-, sweat-, water-, and wrinkle-resistant clothing that will be your go-to for any situation.

That’s a tall order, so how do they do it? Ably uses a unique lightweight fabric called Filium. It’s moisture-resistant, odor-blocking, and fast-drying. Together, these attributes work together to form stunning travel clothing, especially for those of you prone to spilling drinks on your clothing (guilty as charged).

I’m particularly fond of the neutral style of Ably clothing—you can mix and match most items. This easy pairing allows you to pack fewer pieces of clothing so you can fill up your suitcase with souvenirs instead!

Furthermore, unlike many mainstream clothing companies, Ably truly cares about quality, and their clothing shows it. Ably has high-quality items that resist spills, sweat, stains, and nearly all other travel-related unpleasantness.

10. Athleta : Best Women’s Travel Clothes

best travel clothing sets

Athleta is one of the more mainstream websites on this list and boasts an extensive catalog to match. This brand is consequently one of my top recommendations for the casual female traveler (and my female team members agree!).

From bottoms to jackets and t-shirts to dresses, Athleta undoubtedly has something for everyone. Athleta also uses durable materials in tandem with quality manufacturing, so you’ll get the same level of comfort in a maxi-dress as you would with a pair of yoga pants.

The aesthetically pleasing yet subtle style is best deployed in cities—taking in the sights, catching a show, having relaxing evenings out, or just chilling in everyday life. However, Athleta’s performance-focused apparel easily earns its place on more adventurous excursions or simple trips to the hotel gym.

Athleta seems to have chiseled out a strong following amongst yoga aficionados thanks to their durable, comfortable, and breathable active leggings and tops. The apparel doesn’t come cheap, but it’s still an excellent travel clothing brand that covers the entire field from casual to activewear.

11. Vessi Footwear : Best Travel Shoes

The Vessi Cityscape

Vess i Footwear is an innovative brand that took the typical sneaker model and made it four-season. Their travel shoes are designed for rainy or snowy weather thanks to remarkable waterproofing technology. And yes, I do mean waterproof⁠—I’ve tested Vessi shoes myself, and they’re remarkably watertight.

What’s more, the unique knit material has all the comfort of your favorite pair of slippers for unparalleled foot comfort while traveling. You have three types of sneakers to choose from: the Everyday Sneaker, the Cityscape, and the Everyday Slip-On. All three versions come in both men’s and women’s versions, and each has particular strengths.

Check out my complete review of Vessi footwear if you want to know more.

Vessi literally designed these shoes from scratch as a startup and funded their project through a hugely successful Kickstarter campaign. The science behind the waterproof knit pattern is incredible, and the shoe cushion is anti-bacterial. No stinky feet!

These travel shoes are perfect for just about everyone out there. From snow to rain and casual to classy, these shoes do everything.

12. Icebreaker : Best For Travel Baselayers

best travel clothing sets

Icebreaker is another excellent company that uses merino wool for the vast majority of their products. While they have a broad range of general clothing that’s perfect for travel days, they also produce a very intriguing line of performance clothing aimed at hiking and adventure.

This diversity means that Icebreaker can be your one-stop-shop for all your travel clothing, casual or otherwise. Merino wool is their material of choice because it naturally inhibits bacterial growth and thereby reduces odor while at the same time providing excellent temperature regulation.

The properties of Icebreaker’s high-tech fabrics will keep you warm in colder weather but also help cool you down in the heat by staying breathable and wicking sweat away from your body. This is a huge advantage over cotton t-shirts, which absorb sweat and don’t dry quickly. They also offer great sun protection for long days outside.

Merino is genuinely a fabric unlike any other, and any brand that focuses on wool clothing is a prime target for your wardrobe. I’m particularly fond of Icebreaker’s wool baselayers. They’re great for staying warm on chilly planes or layering up for a colder day exploring a new city or landscape. I include a pair of wool pants for just about every trip I take, and I never regret bringing them.

Overall, Icebreaker makes high-quality travel clothes designed to roll with the punches and stick with you wherever you go. Trust me, merino wool will change your entire outlook on travel clothes. There’s no other material out there that will look so stylish and suitable for any occasion, and yet work so hard to keep you comfortable and smelling great. In fact, they make several of our favorite travel shirts.

13. Western Rise : Best Men’s Travel Clothes

best travel clothing sets

Western Rise is a perfect brand for the minimalist male travelers out there. They focus on neutral and durable clothing that will work in many different capacities. While you won’t see many bright colors or patterns, you will get high-quality clothing that will match with anything else in your wardrobe.

Though their clothing may be simple, it has so many different uses and benefits to make so much more than your standard tee. For example, Western Rise cotton shirts include odor and wrinkle-resistant technology, allowing you to dress with confidence for every situation.

The secret behind this odor and wrinkle-free material? Merino wool! Did I mention that I love merino wool? Recall that wool fabric is naturally odor-resistant and less prone to wrinkles than plain cotton. Western Rise, therefore, produces an excellent blend of the two materials that allow you to wear their products just about anywhere.

Their pants are just as impressive, with a nylon-elastane blend for ultimate comfort and durability. Western Rise is a brand that genuinely allows you to go from the city to outdoors in the same outfit.

Their basic design approach also helps with overall travel outfitting, allowing you to easily dress up their clothing without having to include separate fashion outfits while packing.

So remember, Western Rise is absolute wardrobe basics, but the nicest basics you can buy. I’m also a sucker for a company that cares deeply about its material quality, and Western Rise makes a definite point of addressing its design and material selection process on its website.

The company is also very interested in social responsibility and is working to become a net-zero carbon emissions company. Western Rise is perfect for travelers who need minimalist clothing that will work in many different scenarios for many trips to come.

14. KÜHL : Best Travel Pants

best travel clothing sets

KÜHL is one of my favorite travel clothing brands. They produce clothes for men and women that are well-made with a particular focus on hiking. They’re well known for their travel and hiking pants , which feature a trim yet rugged design that’s durable enough for any trail but minimalist enough for a day navigating city streets.

What I mean by “minimalist” is that these travel pants don’t feature any overt logos, bulkiness, or patterns. Just a simple, well-made design that extends to all KÜHL products. That makes them perfect travel pants.

For all you women out there, KÜHL even has an exciting activewear dress collection. The fabric ranges from mighty merino wool to standard cotton, but each one is incredibly cozy and perfect to wear on the road.

I also love that KÜHL has many products that combine all the benefits of technical fabrics with understated designs that can fit your personal style. That’s great for anyone who likes to pack light for one-bag travel and needs travel clothing that can fill multiple purposes, from hiking to dressing up to go out for the night.

All in all, KÜHL is ideal if you need some simple, well-made pieces to incorporate into your wardrobe. Also, because the clothing isn’t bulky, it won’t take up too much room as you’re packing. These travel clothes are ideal for anyone who likes well-made clothing designed by an independent company that will fit perfectly in their suitcase!

15. Darn Tough Socks : Best Travel Socks

best travel clothing sets

Socks are essential, and Darn Tough is a well-known sock brand from Vermont, USA. Without a doubt, these are my go-to socks for any occasion, and I love them. I’ve owned at least five pairs, and I never leave home without them.

These merino wool socks genuinely live up to the company name, and they’ll last trip after trip and season after season with hardly any signs of wear and tear. They are durable, warm, and breathable, and they feature merino wool’s natural odor resistance. Merino is the best material for base layers, and that includes your socks!

The natural temperature-regulating properties of wool also makes these socks ideal for both cold and hot weather. Their designed to keep your feet comfortable no matter the temperature. They also sell a wide range of sock thicknesses, from super lightweight running socks to thick, cushy winter ones.

Darn Tough invests a tremendous amount of effort in sourcing high-quality natural fabrics and craftsmanship for these socks. They’re not limited to outdoor adventure either⁠—the comfortable, moisture-wicking, and durable design is just as useful for airports, cities, and museums.

Simply search on their website, and I’m sure you’ll find a pair you love. Darn Toughs has a considerable array of sock styles and designs, but they all feature merino wool’s signalture soft feel and comfort.

The best part of Darn Tough is their warranty. Unlike many brands, they really stand behind their products. If you ever wear out your socks, send them back and they’ll ship you a new pair. No questions asked, no receipt needed. While these socks seem expensive, that extra cost is actually quite affordable pricing considering you are buying a pair of socks that will last the rest of your life!

If you haven’t picked up on it yet, I am a huge fan of Darn Tough socks. Get some! You might even be able to pass them down to your grandkids.

16. Eddie Bauer : Best Travel Jackets

best travel clothing sets

Eddie Bauer is an extremely well-known travel clothing brand with plenty of options for both men and women. For my part, I love their travel pants think they’re one of the best jacket brands out there. Their Guide Pro pants are water-resistant, stretchy, and very swish. Meanwhile, the jackets are lightweight, breathable, stylish, and perfect for men or women.

I also have an Eddie Bauer down parka that I love. I can wear it during the day and stay comfortable without overheating. Meanwhile, my favorite pair of Guide Pro pants look at home on the trail, in a restaurant, or just lounging around.

My emphasis on their pants and jackets is not to imply that I’m not a fan of Eddie Bauer shirts, however. They offer a wide variety in both technical and cotton that are appropriate for casual or activewear. Take note that I feel that their shirts are a little on the boxy side, and they wouldn’t be my first choice to dress to impress, but they’re functional nevertheless. In particular, I think Eddie Bauer makes great shirts for sun protection while hiking in warmer weather.

Eddie Bauer designs all their clothing with versatility in mind. Their clothing is ideal for camping, fishing, hiking, and general travel. You can wear their clothes anywhere, anytime.

Eddie Bauer also believes in sourcing the raw materials for their clothing responsibly, and so they partner with other associations to make sure they’re doing their part for conservation efforts. By and large they use eco-friendly fabrics and ethical manufacturing.

Let’s review the basics: Eddie Bauer is an outdoor and travel clothing brand has comfortable, stylish clothing that’s perfect for men and women travelers for a vast range of activities, and they also focus on conservation efforts! Who doesn’t want to shop there?

17. Mountain Hardwear : Most Durable Travel Clothes

best travel clothing sets

Mountain Hardwear is one of those cool brands that craft tough gear that you’ll want to wear forever, and it will last just as long. Seriously, I have a fleece from Mountain Hardwear that I’ve worn up mountains on four continents over five years, and it’s still on the top of my packing list for every trip.

Generally speaking, Mountain Hardwear has a wide range of impressive clothing that will fit just about any traveling dress code. Their travel clothing line includes casual shirts for run-of-the-mill use, heavy-duty adventure gear crafted from exceptionally durable fabrics, travel pants suitable for mountains or museums, and more stylish tops and button-up shirts to dress up for a night out.

Mountain Hardwear’s usefulness for travelers extends beyond clothes. They make an impressive line of backpacks, tents, and sleeping bags to fully equip the adventurous folks out there.

Finally, their fabrics are designed to last in the long run (just like my traveling fleece). Every piece of clothing exhibits excellent construction and quality, making Mountain Hardwear a trustworthy purveyor of all things travel clothing related.

There you go, travelers! We’ve covered the very best travel clothing brands out there to make sure you’re fully kitted out for your next adventure, wherever that may be.

There are plenty of durable and reliable choices, no matter if you’re visiting a city or a remote backcountry trail. We’ve likewise covered plenty of style options ranging from subtle and minimalist to more flashy and snazzy, depending on your taste.

So go ahead, browse our suggestions and pick out your new travel clothes, and get after those worldwide travels.

Jeremy Scott Foster

On A Similar Note...

Best Hiking Boots Brands

10 Best Hiking Boot Brands of 2024

Best Jacket Brands | Top Winter Coats, Parkas & More

10 Best Jacket Brands of 2024

Best Hiking Sandals

12 Best Hiking Sandals of 2024

Best Hiking Shirts

11 Best Hiking Shirts of 2024

Best Travel Pants

10 Best Travel Pants of 2024 for Men & Women

Best Travel Shoes

10 Best Travel Shoes for Men & Women

Best Hiking Pants

12 Best Hiking Pants for Men and Women

Vessi Footwear Review

Vessi Shoes Review: Are These the Best Travel Shoes?

One response.

Note that a number of the companies listed are not size inclusive for women and barely make it to the median women’s size. (menswear is usually size inclusive)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Let's Move This Adventure to Your Inbox

Upgrade your adventure today, and sign up to receive the best gear, tips and tricks we’ve got, straight to your inbox, totally free.

best travel clothing sets

Get Up to 50% off at REI

Shop discounted deals on major outdoor brands at REI. Click the button below to find out what’s on sale today!

Your cart is empty

Have an account, you might like these...., kenya safari jacket, the kate skinny cargo pant, flo pima cotton tank, travel city slick jacket, kenya cozy fleece-lined jacket, skyler cozy fleece-lined travel pant, delaney travel vest, the luisa skinny jean pant.

COMPLIMENTARY MINI PACKING CUBE WITH 3+ ITEMS

REFER A FRIEND - GIVE $75 GET $75

FREE SHIPPING ON ORDERS OVER $100*

Racquel has been with Anatomie for years and is able to help you find the perfect fit to your body.

Joe has been with Anatomie for years and is able to help you find the perfect fit to your body.

Spring Refresh

best travel clothing sets

Shop the Look

Justine jacket and kate pant, ainslee vest & luisa pant, delaney travel vest, beth shirt, & skyler pant, allegra jacket & everlee pant, flo sleeveless top & darby pant, kim top & indie pinstripe pant, stacey long-sleeve top & luisa side stripe pant, melissa top & everlee pant, travel essentials, new this week, casey cropped jacket, cami tank top, kate skinny cargo pant with stripe, mike utility jacket, stewart pant, charlie zip pima top, kim camo mesh top, madelyn tank top, up to 70% savings, view all menswear, lightweight.

Designed with signature lightweight wrinkle-free European fabrics

perfect fit

Fits any body type

free delivery

Free delivery on orders over $100* exclusions apply

Sustainable

Low-impact luxury apparel, guaranteed for life

"Savvy travelers know to pack smartly, opting for clothing that is wrinkle resistant, easy to maintain and does not take up too much luggage space. European fabrics and quality craftsmanship ensure luxurious and beautiful pieces. Anatomie checks all of those boxes.”

Filip boyen, ceo - forbes travel guide, our customers wear... #everydayanatomie, ramona windbreaker jacket, peggy zippered pant, tanzania jacket.

  • Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
  • Opens in a new window.

I Cracked the Code to the Perfect Travel Outfit

The elusive "perfect travel outfit"—it's something we've discussed, debated, and broken down quite a bit before. What does an effortless yet polished and, above all else, comfy travel outfit really look like, and why does it seem nearly impossible to accomplish ? Non-stretch high-rise jeans are out of the question, no matter how long you're in transit. On the other hand, it's this writer's opinion that wearing straight-up leggings isn't the most stylish option. Though, I'll admit it may be the comfiest.

After countless flights and thousands of miles flown, I think I've finally found the answer to the travel-outfit conundrum: knit sets . The matching sweater-and-pants sets just might be the stylish solution to all those times you wore  sweatpants but ended up feeling less than put-together upon arrival. With so many fun, colorful sets to choose from right now, there's no reason not to feel ultra-comfy when you're traveling. (They make pretty great loungewear , too.) We love them styled with simple white sneakers and a few dainty jewelry staples. From rainbow stripes to cheery colors and clean neutrals, shop the coolest knit sets below.

The polo collar really makes this knit feel fresh.

Easy and chic.

A touch more elevated than your basic tank.

The 2021 wardrobe basic to end them all.

Because comfy doesn't have to mean boring.

I can't decide what I like better, the color or the neckline.

Donni has really mastered cool loungewear.

Case in point.

This color feels versatile and exciting all at once.

All about that slit hem.

Imagine all the layering possibilities.

Just as cool with knit bottoms as it is with jeans.

Pair them with the above top for a comfy but stylish vibe.

Because vests are definitely still going strong.

The belted waist adds some nice structure to these.

Leave it to Simon Miller to create the coolest color palettes.

Never knew I needed knit bike shorts until now.

It's all about the lettuce hem here.

Nordstrom's knitwear is really popping off lately.

The ideal pants to wear with white sneakers.

Compliment-worthy.

Now you're all set to look stylish en route to your next destination.

This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.

Next-level elegance.

By Allyson Payer

By Kristina Rutkowski

By Courtney Falsey

Easy as un, deux, trois.

By Drew Elovitz

Effortless and chic.

By Bobby Schuessler

By Lauren Eggertsen

They're not exactly travel friendly, but they are incredibly chic.

By Erin Fitzpatrick

Exclusively for you.

By Bébhinn Campbell

By Grace O'Connell Joshua

The perfect pastime.

By Aemilia Madden

Other versions of this page are available with specific content for the following regions:

  • Contact Future's experts
  • Terms and conditions
  • Privacy policy
  • Cookies policy
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Advertise with us

Who What Wear UK is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.

best travel clothing sets

New Arrivals

  • Jackets & Blazers
  • Shoes & Accessories
  • Tops, Blouses & Tees

Featured Shops

  • Femme Florals
  • Getaway Style
  • New Spring Style Drop
  • Our Team Picks
  • Polished Perfection
  • The Hot List

POLISHED PERFECTION

The hot list.

  • All Clothing
  • Denim & Jeans
  • Pants & Leggings
  • Skirts & Shorts
  • Everyday Style
  • Wedding Guest
  • The Denim Shop
  • The Bottoms Guide
  • The Linen Shop

FOUNDATIONAL TOPS

Our team picks, cardigan sweaters, shop by style.

  • Maxi Dresses
  • Midi Dresses

Shop By Occasion

  • Daytime Chic
  • Special Occasion
  • Weekend Casual

FOR OCCASIONS

Vacation style, daytime chic.

  • Swim Dresses

ONE-PIECE SUITS

Swim dresses, beyond travel.

  • About The Collection
  • All Beyond Travel
  • Beyond Travel Bottoms
  • Beyond Travel Dresses
  • Beyond Travel Jackets
  • Beyond Travel Tops
  • Beyond Travel Sets

ABOUT THE COLLECTION

Stretch knit bottoms, bestselling blazers, all collections, beyond basics, the tops collection.

  • Beyond Basics Athleisure
  • Beyond Basic Bottoms
  • Beyond Basic Dresses
  • Beyond Basic Jackets
  • Beyond Basic Sweaters
  • Beyond Basic Tops
  • So Effortless
  • So Essential

THE TOPS COLLECTION

Beyond basics, charmeuse blouses.

  • Boots & Booties

Accessories

  • All Accessories

ACCESSORIES

Limited edition scarf, sale & clearance.

  • New Markdowns

JUST REDUCED

Shop clearance, browse stories.

  • Fashion Tips & How-Tos
  • Sheryl's Loves
  • Style Over 40
  • Vacations & Destinations
  • What's Trending

WHAT'S TRENDING

Vacations & getaways, sheryl's loves, shop by category.

Luxe knitwear designed for everywhere and anywhere

Wrinkle free travel clothes provide comfort while flying or driving to your destination and are the perfect items to pack in your suitcase. Women’s travel apparel at Boston Proper is designed in wrinkle-resistant styles from the Beyond Travel™ Collection and versatile for both travel and every day. This top-selling collection is a favorite for offering comfortable wear while staying fresh and polished. Be wrinkle free in wrinkle-resistant travel dresses, pants, tops and more designed in a selection of styles that fit and flatter every figure. The exclusive wrinkle-resistant knit fabric is perfect for creating a smooth silhouette to give you style, confidence and comfort all in one. Browse the Beyond Travel™ Collection at Boston Proper and get all the wrinkle free looks you need for work, weekend and night out travel and everyday comfort.

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

a couple of metal boxes

11 Best Luggage Sets for Smooth Traveling

The crème de la crème of suitcases.

For many, a duffel bag is the preferred piece of travel gear , but we're here to tell you why luggage sets are necessary. In this guide, we'll sift through the endless array of options to unveil the crème de la crème of luggage sets. From chic carry-ons to spacious spinners, we'll explore the must-haves that will have you strutting through terminals like a seasoned jet-setter. Of course if you want investment pieces , we have a guide for that. Or, if you budget luggage, we have a guide for that too .

Set of 2 Flex Suitcases

Best Luggage Set Overall

Away set of 2 flex suitcases.

Suitcases

Best Luxury Luggage Set

Rimowa suitcases.

Aviator Set

Best Eco-Minded Luggage Set

Paravel aviator set.

Platinum Elite Hardside Set

Best Luggage Set on Amazon

Travelpro platinum elite hardside set.

For the Minimalist Set

Best Hardside and Backpack Set

Monos for the minimalist set.

Freeform Hardside Expandable Set

Most Affordable Luggage Set

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable set.

Chatelet Hardside 2.0

Best Looking Luggage Set on Amazon

Delsey paris chatelet hardside 2.0.

Set of Two or Three

Best Mix-and-Match Luggage Set

Béis set of two or three.

5-Piece Luggage Set

Best Budget Luggage Set

Coolife 5-piece luggage set.

Maxlite 5 Luggage Set

Best Soft-Sided Luggage Set

Travelpro maxlite 5 luggage set.

We dove deep into the details, and figured out which cases fare the best in the worst travel environments. In a world of adventure and exploration, your suitcase should be as ready for the journey as you are.

The Classic collection from Away features the brand's signature suitcase designs, offering two carry-on sizes, medium and large checked options, and a trunk. They all boast a lightweight, durable hard shell, easy-grip handles, and thoughtfully designed interiors. Meanwhile, the Flex collection stands out as Away's unique line of expandable hard luggage, thanks to an innovative expandable zipper allowing the Carry-On Flex to stretch by 2.25 inches and the checked sizes by 1.75 inches, making room for all those last-minute packs.

The Bigger Carry-On Flex is your go-to travel pal, designed to squeeze in those "just in case" extras with an expandable 2.25" of bonus space, making it a breeze to pack for "what ifs." It's got all the perks—interior savvy, smooth 360° spinner wheels, and it fits just right as checked luggage. Team it up with The Medium or The Large Flex, and you've got a travel duo (or trio if you want all three) that's ready for anything.

Meet the trailblazer of the suitcase world: Rimowa's Essential collection. Born in Germany, this lineup is the brainchild of high-tech dreams, combining strength, durability, and a featherlight touch. Whether you're grabbing the Cabin, Check-In M, or Check-In L, you're not just picking luggage; you're choosing a travel revolution.

Rimowa's Essential Case Collection gives you the best high-performance polycarbonate, but we will always advocate for the classic aluminum Rimowa suitcase . Choose from three sleek carry-on options or a single check-in size, each available in a handful of colors. For the tech-savvy jet-setter, the Essential Sleeve carry-on is your go-to, doubling as a compact overnight bag for those quick escapes.

Rimowa doesn't have any bundle buy option on the website, but Bloomingdale's does , if you prefer to buy that way.

Paravel's Aviator set is a testament to eco-friendly travel, achieving carbon neutrality by offsetting emissions from every step of its journey, from raw materials to your doorstep. Crafted from recycled polycarbonate, aluminum, vegan leather, and Negative Nylon, it's a pioneer in sustainable sourcing, slashing water use, pesticides, and emissions. Security meets convenience with its TSA-approved lock, while 360° double spinner wheels ensure smooth transit. Inside, find an organized haven with a compression board, smart pockets, and a laundry bag, all backed by a decade-long warranty against manufacturing defects.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Set features two essential travel companions: a carry-on and a check-in bag, perfectly sized for most US airlines' overhead compartments and longer journey storage requirements, respectively. Constructed from a durable 100% polycarbonate shell with a scuff-resistant textured finish and reinforced with aluminum corner details for added protection against wear and tear. Additionally, the carry-on boasts integrated charging ports and a concealed compartment for a power bank, blending convenience with resilience for travelers.

This luggage set, comprising the Carry-on Pro , Metro Backpack , and Compressible Packing Cubes , is perfect for travelers seeking durability and convenience—particularly on short trips with lots of running around. Plus, it comes in a sleek, minimalist design.

Monos luggage is crafted from ultra-light, aerospace-grade polycarbonate, and it combines lightweight design with robust durability. Features include a smartly organized interior with a side-starting zipper, a zippered panel on one side, and a compression option on the other, alongside smooth 360-degree wheels and a TSA-approved lock.

The Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable two-Piece Set, featuring a carry-on spinner and a large spinner, is designed for organized and effortless travel. With a cross ribbon and divider for straightforward packing, multiple pockets for efficient organization, and double wheels for superior maneuverability, this set simplifies your journey. Enhanced security is provided by a TSA-compliant 3-dial combination lock and a built-in ID tag for easy identification.

This luggage boasts a button-activated brake for front-wheel control and smooth double-spinner wheels for easy crowd navigation. Its elegant interior features leather-like accents and a TSA-friendly recessed lock for secure, damage-free checks. Crafted from durable virgin polycarbonate and equipped with a triple-strength ZIP SECURITECH two zipper, it's designed for security and resilience. Added perks include washable linings and corner protectors for durability, making this suitcase a traveler's dream for both convenience and style.

You can completely customize your Béis set by choosing a two or three luggage pieces. Start with a rolling bag, add a weekender that fits on top, and some packing cubes or checked piece. Mix and match colors or stick with a monochromatic theme.

Pack a punch with these nifty luggage sets, where you can pick from a hefty five-piece haul or a sleek three-piece combo. They're not just bags. These are your travel sidekicks, sporting TSA-approved locks and an interior that's more organized than a librarian's bookshelf, all wrapped in tough-as-nails ABS. And for the bits and bobs? Water-resistant gear that sticks to your luggage like glue, because who has time for juggling bags when there's adventure on the horizon?

Zip through the airport with the Maxlite 5 set—where light meets might. With spinners that twirl on a dime and a handle that fits just right, packing's never been less of a puzzle. If you're looking for a soft-sided set, this is going to be your option.

The two-piece set, featuring both a 21-inch carry-on and a 25-inch suitcase, is designed with your packing needs in mind. With a full-length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket, and adjustable hold-down straps, it ensures your items are neatly organized and securely in place. Additionally, the H20 Guard protection keeps the interior lining safe from moisture, all under the assurance of Travelpro's Built For A Lifetime Limited Warranty.

July Trunk Set

Trunk Set

Meet the July Checked Trunk, where extra socks and souvenirs find their happy place. It's like that reliable friend who’s always up for an adventure, thanks to its sturdy shell and dead silent wheels. Throw in the Carry On and Covers, and you're not just traveling; you're rolling through with your own style squad, ready to make every destination feel like a homecoming party.

The Carry-on Trunk packs a punch with a special section for laundry, extra-secure latch locks, and silent wheels. It's tech-savvy too, sporting a built-in battery pack featuring two USB-A and one USB-C port, plus clip closures, tipping the scales at four kg and fully TSA-ready. The larger Checked bag boasts an 80-liter capacity, dimensions to fit all your essentials, and weighs in at 3.8 kg. Both pieces feature adjustable handles, aluminum latches for secure closing, and a clever 80/20 clamshell layout, with a multi-stop handle ready for any traveler's grip.

Things to Consider When Buying Luggage Sets

shape, rectangle

Discounts - Most brands—just about all besides luxury makers like Rimowa—will offer you deals when you bundle. If you're doing this on a budget, consider the bang for your buck you'll get from direct-to-consumer brands.

Price vs Quality - Luggage is a simple market: the more expensive things are actually better. This is why we will always recommend an aluminum Rimowa suitcase . It's worth the investment, because you can buy one suitcase and use it for decades. None of the cheaper polycarbonate options can say the same. But, if money is your main worry, a polycarbonate suitcase is fine.

How do you travel? - Are you a carry-on only type of person? Are you a check everything I have and roam the terminal with only my headphones cat? Either way, think about it. Buy the luggage set that best fits how you prefer to travel.

Why Trust Esquire?

Because we travel more than anyone ever should. Every week out of the year, one of our editors or writers is wheels up to somewhere. We get a lot of miles in, and with that comes an immense amount of travel product knowledge . Plus, we test a lot of suitcases—from top-of-the-line Rimowas to cheap plastic suitcases . If there's a suitcase you're looking at, we've already put it through its paces. Trust our experience.

preview for HDM All sections playlist - Esquire

@media(max-width: 73.75rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.4375rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.5625rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}} What We're Buying

a white towel with blue writing

The 5 Best All-in-One Computers for Work and Play

best gifts for dad 2023

The 50 Best Gifts for Every Type of Dad Out There

purple mattress review 2024

The Mattress I Didn't Expect to Love

a living room with a large window

Leap Day Travel Deals Happening Today Only

best travel essentials 2024

The 33 Things You Should Always Pack

random things on sale for leap day

The Best Leap Day Sales 2024

best apple watch cases 2023

11 Best Protective Apple Watch Cases to Buy

25 best anti aging creams men 2023

The 15 Best Anti-Aging Creams to Buy Now

a pair of shoes

I'll Wear These Boots Anywhere

best airtag wallets 2024

9 AirTag Wallets to Keep Your Cards and Cash Safe

best ipad cases

The 11 Best iPad Air Cases and Covers

Must-see shopping in Moscow

best travel clothing sets

Transylvania

From the courtyard, look for the black metal door that leads down into this dungeon of a shop, which houses room after room of CDs, in every genre…

best travel clothing sets

One of Russia’s oldest furriers, this place has been manufacturing shapky (fur hats) and shuby (fur coats) since 1912. While Yekaterina has always…

Exterior of GUM department store.

Behind its elaborate 240m-long facade on the northeastern side of Red Square, GUM is a bright, bustling shopping mall with hundreds of fancy stores and…

best travel clothing sets

Yeliseev Grocery

Peek in here for a glimpse of pre-revolutionary grandeur, as the store is set in the former mansion of the successful merchant Yeliseev. It now houses an…

best travel clothing sets

Russkie Chasovye Traditsii

Arbat & Khamovniki

If you're in the market for a fancy timepiece, pop into the Arbat outlet of ‘Russian Watch Traditions’. On this touristy drag, these small shops carry…

best travel clothing sets

Russian Embroidery & Lace

Considering the lack of flashy signs and kitsch, it would be easy to miss this plain storefront on the Arbat. But inside there are treasures galore, from…

best travel clothing sets

Flakon is arguably the most visually attractive of all the redeveloped industrial areas around town, looking a bit like the far end of London's Portobello…

Khokhlovka Original

Meshchansky & Basmanny

This is about the most clandestine fashion store we've ever reviewed. To get in, enter a graffiti-covered courtyard, then look for a small gap between two…

Tryokhgornaya Manufaktura Factory Outlet

Tryokhgornaya Manufaktura is one of the oldest textile factories in Russia, founded in 1799 on the banks of the Moscow River. The factory played a key…

Biblio-Globus

Moscow’s favourite bookshop is huge, with lots of souvenir books devoted to language, art and history, and a good selection of maps and travel guides. A…

Odensya Dlya Schastya

This sweet boutique – encouraging shoppers to ‘dress for happiness’ – carries unique clothing by a few distinctive designers, including Moscow native Oleg…

Valentin Yudashkin Boutique

The best-known Russian fashion designer is Valentin Yudashkin, whose classy clothes are on display at the Louvre and the Met, as well as the State History…

Among the largest bookstores in Moscow, Dom Knigi has a selection of foreign-language books to rival any other shop in the city, not to mention travel…

Zaporozhets Heritage

Zaporozhets makes clothes themed on popular Soviet cartoon films, such as Holidays in Prostokvashino, for hipsters born after the USSR collapsed who love…

Chocolate Salon

This bustling store is the factory outlet for several local candy makers, including the most famous, Krasny Oktyabr (Red October). The display case is…

Naivno? Ochen!

These folks do a great service selling souvenirs – cups, plates and T-shirts – themed on inspired and whimsical drawings produced by children with special…

Here you'll find perfume brands that you won't come by in a duty-free shop. All fringe international and Russian perfume producers are welcome, while Dior…

This tiny shop that sells secondhand vinyl and CDs has a few shelves dedicated to Russian indie music from the 1980s to present. There is also a Korean…

A showroom of a popular online shop, which focuses primarily on little-known Russian designer brands. Definitely a place to look for high-quality clothes…

This tiny store is packed with books, games, plush animals and beautiful painted wooden toys. This is the place to find some souvenirs for the little…

Russian timepieces for sale at the weekend 'Vernisazh' arts and crafts market at Izmaylovsky Park in Moscow.

Izmaylovsky Market

Never mind the kitschy faux 'tsar's palace' it surrounds, this is the ultimate place to shop for matryoshka dolls, military uniforms, icons, Soviet badges…

best travel clothing sets

Alena Akhmadullina Boutique

Alena Akhmadullina’s romantic, flowing fashions have been wowing trendsetters since 2005, when the St Petersburg designer first showed her stuff in Paris…

best travel clothing sets

Association of Artists of the Decorative Arts

Look for the ceramic number plate and the small sign indicating the entrance to this 'exposition hall', which is actually a cluster of small shops, each…

best travel clothing sets

Katya Dobryakova

Katya makes dresses, blouses, sweatshirts and more with brightly coloured applications – all around a single theme. It was 'Tropical Dreams' when we…

best travel clothing sets

Armiya Rossii

In case you hadn't noticed the increasing militarisation of Russian society, here's an example: the Russian Army now has its own fashion line. There's…

best travel clothing sets

It’s a bookstore, but it’s also a gift shop, a music shop and a cafe. This is the place to shop for a quirky gift for your friend who (you think) has…

best travel clothing sets

Vassa & Co

Elena Vassa is a Russian designer but was trained in New York City. Her designs reflect a classical and classy sense of style. Catering to modern Moscow…

Exterior of TSUM with billboard.

TsUM stands for Tsentralny Universalny Magazin (Central Department Store). Built in 1909 as the Scottish-owned Muir & Merrilees, it was the first…

Zamoskvorechie

Although the old Red October chocolate factory has long been converted into a hipster den, you can still sample the products of Russian chocolatiers at…

Russkaya Usadba

One of Moscow's best antiques dealers, this gallery specialises in 19th-century furniture salvaged from the mansion houses of the nobility, most of which…

One of the oldest and biggest Moscow bookshops, opened in 1958, Moskva has a huge collection of books in many languages. There's a downstairs antiques…

Podarki vMeste s Vorovski

This sweet little boutique houses a cooperative of four designer gift producers. The rather cramped space is filled with hundreds of useful and useless …

Dom Farfora

The ‘house of china’ sells the world’s most famous brands of fine china, including Russia’s own Imperatorsky farforovy zavod (imperial china factory)…

Magazin Chai-Kofe

In 1894 the old Perlov Tea House was redecorated in the style of a Chinese pagoda. Today this fantastical facade contains the Tea-Coffee Store – a simple…

Simachyov Boutique & Bar

The wild child of Russian fashion, Denis Simachyov has become a household name in Moscow thanks to his popular nightclub and irreverent clothing. His…

Specialising in 'unusual clothing', this sweet boutique carries a range of dresses, tops and accessories. The creative designers represent the whole…

Factory-Expedition

For all your hunting expedition needs, head to this tiny shop below the restaurant of the same name. As well as guns, knives, camping equipment and…

Lnyanaya Lavka

Russian fashion designers are doing wonderful things with linen, crafting this potentially drab material into modern, playful clothing. Styles are…

Dom Inostrannoy Knigi

The House of Foreign Books is a small place with a wide selection of literature in foreign languages. Most books are in English, though there are smaller…

Of all shopping centres in central Moscow, this is the funkiest, with clothes and interior-design items from international and emerging Russian brands, a…

More destinations you need to see

canals of St. Petersburg ..

Phenomenal Globe Travel Blog

Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Trans Mongolian Express

ultimate-Moscow-itinerary-phenomenalglobe.com

Moscow is the capital of Russia and there are few cities in the world that have played such a significant part in history.

Home to the Kremlin, the Red Square, the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral, and many more famous landmarks, Moscow is a city like no other.

This Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Moscow. From the best places to see in Moscow to how to get around, this post has got you covered.

Moscow itinerary

View of the Kremlin Moscow

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Moscow 3 day itinerary: map with highlights

Moscow itinerary map

Click here for the interactive map .

What to do in Moscow in 3 days

  • Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum.
  • Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre.
  • Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

The famous pedestrian street Nikolskaya Street (Никольская улица) located in Kitay-Gorod Moscow with thousands of fairy lights.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Moscow

The best time to plan a trip to Moscow is April-May and September-October . During these months temperatures are (generally) quite comfortable, though even in April there can be a bit of snow! The summer months are hot, both in regard to temperature as well as activities in the city. While it's a nice time to visit, it's also the busiest time of the year to visit Moscow. Hotel prices reflect this as well and summer definitely isn't a great time for budget travelers to visit Moscow. Winter in Moscow is cold, and I mean seriously cold (-15°C isn't rare). However, if you can withstand the subzero temperatures and freezing winds, it can be a magical time to visit. A snow-covered St. Basil’s Cathedral is a sight you will never forget. Keep in mind that days are short in winter and be sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothes!

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble (₽ or RUB). Here you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 70RUB and $1 is around 62RUB.

Yes, you probably do. Getting a visa for Russia requires a bit of time and effort. You need to fill out several forms and provide a detailed travel itinerary and information about your accommodation. Also, you will need a Visa Support Letter which can be provided by your travel agency or your hotel. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements, please refer to the information provided on the website of your country's Embassy in Russia.

While most of the things to see in Moscow listed in this post are within walking distance of each other, sometimes you will have to travel a bit further afield. The best way to get around in Moscow is by metro. It's cheap and efficient and a sightseeing activity in itself, because Moscow has the most beautiful metro stations in the world ! Among the most exquisitely decorated stations are Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Taganskaya, and Prospect Mira Station, but there are many more worthwhile stations to be found in the Moscow underground. You can purchase a single ticket from one of the ticket machines or get a rechargeable Troika Card when you plan on taking the metro several times. Read more details on how to use the Moscow metro here . If you prefer to get around by taxi, that's possible too. We used the Gett app to order a taxi (similar to Uber) to avoid confusion about our intended destination and having to negotiate in Russian. A convenient extra for families is the Gett Kids option, these cars are outfitted with a car seat.

Moscow metro station

The best things to do in Moscow

While you could easily spend a week in Moscow (or more), most of us, unfortunately, don't have that much time available.

This 3-day Moscow itinerary will guide you to the most popular and important places to visit in Moscow, as well as to some of the more unusual things to do in Moscow.

Below you can find the list of the Moscow sightseeing highlights included in this post.

The Red Square

Gum department store, st. basil's cathedral, lenin's mausoleum, the state historical museum, the kremlin, cathedral of christ the saviour.

  • The Bolshoi Theatre

Izmailovsky Market

Zaryadye park.

Planning a trip to Moscow? Click through to read about the best things to do in Moscow and practical information to plan your Moscow trip. #Moscow #Russia #CityTrip

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Moscow itinerary day 1

The Red Square Moscow Russia

There is no better place to start your first day in Moscow, than at the world-famous Red Square.

This square is considered the central square of Moscow, not just because all the major streets start here, but also because no matter where you look when standing on this square, there are historic buildings all around.

Starting with the impressive GUM store and going clockwise, there is the colorful Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kazan Cathedral.

However, before entering any of these Moscow must-see attractions, allow yourself a moment to take in the view and let it sink in that you're standing on historical grounds (and a UNESCO site).

The Red Square was the official address of the Soviet government and played an important part in history. Many military parades have been held (and are still being held) here. It's the place where protests have taken place, as well as high-profile concerts from famous international artists.

All in all, it's one of the places in Moscow you can't miss during your Moscow city trip!

Red Square with GUM department store in Moscow

Yulia from That's What She Had: it might seem like visiting a department store is not something you’d do on the first visit to Russia’s capital.

But GUM is not like any other department store and is well worth your time, if only for its unique architecture.

First of all, it’s located right on Red Square which makes it an easy stop on your Moscow trip itinerary. Second, GUM is not a simple mall, but an institution built in the late XIX century.

The abbreviation stands for  Glavniy Universalniy Magazin or Main Universal Store. Its impressive facade extends for over 240 meters along the eastern side of Red Square.

Inside you’ll find a beautiful glass ceiling supported by a metal framework, not unlike the ones found in the old train stations of Great Britain. 

best travel clothing sets

While shopping in GUM will cost you an arm and a leg, there’s one reason why tourists and locals come here anyways:  traditional Russian food  at Stolovaya #57. Stolovaya is Russian for canteen and this is where you can get your  pelmeni , borsch , and  pirozhki  fix!

Afterward, don’t forget to get the famous  plombir  ice cream in one of the kiosks on the ground floor.

Saint Basil's Cathedral Moscow

Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes is easily recognizable and one of the most popular Moscow tourist attractions. The building, built on orders from Ivan the Terrible, was completed in 1561 to commemorate the victory over Kazan and Astrakhan.

Until the construction of Ivan the Great Bell Tower (which can be found within the walls of the Kremlin), it was the tallest building in Moscow.

The design of St. Basil's Cathedral is truly unique; it's shaped like the flame of a bonfire and not one building in a similar style can be found in the whole of Russia.

A legend tells the story of how Ivan the Terrible had the architects of the Cathedral blinded so they could never build anything comparable.

This is a myth, however, but the fact remains that Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of a kind and it's not surprising it has become the symbol of Russia.

Lenin Mausoleum Moscow Russia

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan: Lenin Mausoleum is hard to miss. It's a stepped-pyramid construction that sits right at the base of the Kremlin walls on the western side of Red Square.

Entrance is free but note that opening hours are quite limited, with visiting hours lasting only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

If seeing Lenin's embalmed body is important to you, be sure to take this into account when planning your itinerary in Moscow.

One of my  top tips for travelers to Russia  is to arrive early, well before the mausoleum opens, as the queue is usually quite long. However, usually, the queue does move pretty quickly.

This is especially true now that they have lifted the ban on bags and cameras.

It used to be that all cameras, smartphones, and bags of any size had to be checked at a left-luggage office nearby. But now you can bring a small handbag or backpack as well as your camera and phone.

Photography inside the mausoleum is still strictly forbidden, but you are allowed to take photos of the graves of various other important Russian figures that line the path leading to the mausoleum.

Once you finally enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. It doesn't feel nearly as rushed as when visiting Mao Ze Dong's tomb in Beijing or Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi , for example.

The illumination of the body is very well done and would make for superb photography if it wasn't forbidden. As an added bonus, just after you exit, you'll see the grave of Joseph Stalin outside.

State Historical Museum Moscow

Rai from A Rai Of Light: the imposing crimson building at the northern end of the Red Square is the State Historical Museum.

By decree of Alexander III, the museum was built with the support of Russian historians, philosophers, and artists. The red brick building, dating from 1875, was designed in the Russian revival style by Vladimir Shervud.

The National Museum of Russia houses a collection of over four million items, devoted to the history of the country's ancient and imperial period.

The exhibitions include many items previously owned by members of the Romanov dynasty, such as documents, artwork, personal items, furnishings, and decorations from the palace interiors.

Another exhibit features relics of the prehistoric tribes that once inhabited this region.

Notable items include ancient manuscripts, birch-bark scrolls, a longboat excavated from the banks of the Volga River, and the largest coin collection in Russia, sourced from the museums in St Petersburg .

The State Historical Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is 700₽ per adult.

Moscow itinerary day 2

Cathedral Square inside the Kremlin

When listing the best Moscow things to do, one cannot miss the Kremlin! The Kremlin houses the current seat of power in Russia and has done so for several decades.

Within its walls, the offices of the Russian Government can be found. During Soviet rule, the Kremlin was where all the important decisions were made but its history goes back for many centuries.

The first mention of the Kremlin in history books was in 1147, however, the current citadel dates from the 16th century.

The Kremlin is one of the major fortifications found in Europe, with walls that are up to 6.5 meters thick and 19 meters high in particular sections.

Inside the complex, there are many government buildings, however, these aren't accessible to the public.

Around Cathedral Square you'll find (as the name suggests) many churches and cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of the Archangel, Annunciation Cathedral, the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe, and Ivan the Great Bell-Tower.

While Cathedral Square is definitely worth visiting, the highlight of the Kremlin is a visit to the Armoury.

Inside you can find an impressive collection of Faberge eggs, beautiful dresses worn by Catherine the Great, intricately decorated thrones used by the Tsars, and much more. Unfortunately, photography is forbidden inside the Armoury.

Practical information about visiting the Kremlin

In order to visit both Cathedral Square and the Armoury, you will have to buy two separate tickets. A ticket to Cathedral Square costs 700₽ and a ticket to the Armoury is 1000₽. Prices mentioned are for adults, children below 16 years old are free.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office onsite on the same day, however, there's no guarantee tickets will be available, especially during peak season.

Conveniently, tickets can be bought online as well, which is highly advisable if you want to make sure you'll be able to visit the Kremlin during your city trip to Moscow.

How much time to spend at the Kremlin

Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the Kremlin, at least half a day but it's easy to spend more time as there is so much to see.

Please note there isn't any food sold inside the Kremlin, so bring a snack and enough water (especially in summer when it can get pretty hot).

Luggage storage

Backpacks aren't allowed inside the Kremlin, they can be stored (for free) in the cloakroom, but you can bring your camera and a small purse.

We could also take our Babyzen Yoyo stroller inside, which was very convenient as our 10-month-old son could take a nap while we explored the sights.

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour Moscow

After the original Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was demolished by Stalin in 1931, a new version was completed in 2000.

The imposing building is the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world (103 meters high), and is beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside.

Visiting the Cathedral is free of charge and it's open any day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Mondays when the opening hours are 1 to 5 pm).

When visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour it's important to dress appropriately. For men, this means no shorts or tank tops.

Women can't enter with mini skirts or shorts, strap tops, or anything too revealing. Also, women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.

Inside the Cathedral photography isn't allowed, but believe me when I say there is plenty to see. There are beautiful frescoes, colorful icons, impressive statues, and other vivid decorations.

For a beautiful view over Moscow, walk up the stairs to the 40-meter high observation deck (entrance fee 400₽).  

Visit Gorky Park

Gorky Park ice skating Moscow Russia

Helen from Holidays from Hels : Gorky Park, named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, has recently undergone extensive regeneration to become Moscow's central leisure hub for young Muscovites.

Every day of the week you can find many Moscow residents strolling along the banks of the river in the summer, hiring bikes, picnicking on the grass, or dining at one of the many restaurants.

Open-air cinemas, petanque, and ping pong are all on offer. Not to be missed is the iconic white stone entranceway and museum, complete with columns carved with Soviet hammers and sickles.

In winter, look out for the ducks waddling across the frozen Moskva River, and watch boats attempting to navigate through the cracked ice. However, the real winter highlight is to try ice skating on one of the biggest rinks in Europe!

Ice skating in Gorky Park

The park’s maze of pedestrian pathways is transformed into one huge skating rink, which can play host to up to four thousand skaters. 

Not surprisingly, Russians are talented ice skaters and there is a good chance you will find yourself next to a pirouetting ballerina.

Handily, you will find you will already be wearing most of what you need – gloves, hat, scarf, and thick socks and you can hire skates on-site. Lockers are included in the price if you don’t fancy skating with your day pack.

Disco tunes fill the air, and the whole arena is backlit in spectacular neon lights. Rest your weary legs and warm up at one of the cafes dotted along the frozen pathways, with the added bonus of not having to take off your skates.

Opening times

The rink is open from 10 am until 11 pm on weekdays and until midnight at weekends but closes between 3 and 5 pm. Like most attractions in Moscow, the rink is closed on Mondays. 

The prices range from 350-650₽ and go up in the evening, which is the best time for the light show. Arriving at 5 pm, just as the rink opens for the evening session will give you time to find your ice legs before it fills up with more confident skaters.

Whilst waiting for the rink to open, try out the nearby tubing track where you can shoot down a snowy hill on an inflatable ring repeatedly for a very enjoyable half an hour!

How to get to Gorky Park by metro

The nearest metro is Park Kultury Station, on the other side of the river. As always, check out in advance what this looks like in the Russian Alphabet so you know when to get off!

Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theater Moscow

James Ian at Travel Collecting : one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, located only a short walk from Red square. Bolshoy means big in Russian, and the theatre is not only big but also beautiful.

There are two ways to see the theater: on a guided tour or by watching a performance .

Take a guided tour

  • English tours are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:30 am. Tickets for these tours can be bought (on the same day) at the ticket office located in the Historic building of the theatre (door #12).
  • A ticket costs 2000₽ per person, tours last one hour, and the number of people on a tour is limited to a maximum of 20. The tour takes you inside the theater and to the historic main stage.

Watch a performance

My favorite way to see the theater, though, is to enjoy a performance and experience the theater as a patron.

The entrance is a little underwhelming when you first arrive, the street lobby is small and quite plain and you will be immediately directed up to your floor.

There are helpful attendants on each floor to guide you to the correct door. Arrive a little early and head up to the Grand Salon on the top floor where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while people-watching (Russians dress up for the theater).

Then head to your seat and take in the stunning theater before enjoying the famous Bolshoi Ballet or another performance.

Be sure to book a show at the historic stage, there is a modern stage as well but that isn't nearly as much fun.

Moscow itinerary day 3

Izmailovsky Market Moscow

Karen from WanderlustingK : one of the most interesting Moscow places to visit is the Izmailovsky Market .

This flea market and tourist attraction a bit outside of the tourist center is a recreation of a Tzar’s Palace, known as a Kremlin, produced in a colorful 16th-century style.

The market is filled with tiny stalls that sell everything from snacks to kitsch to authentic items from Soviet times such as hats, pins, and other pieces of memorabilia.

You'll also find authentic antiques such as vases, paintings, and other religious items if you're looking to splurge within the interior parts of the market.

Negotiating in English is not always possible as many vendors only speak Russian, so be sure to practice your Russian numbers and see how well you can do with haggling.

It's important to carry cash when you visit given that many vendors do not accept cards. We ended up purchasing a series of hats at the market, along with a beautiful hot tea glass with a metal holder with a typical Russian scene.

Elsewhere in the market, you’ll also find a few tourist shops that sell typical Russian products. It takes a few hours to see the market in full, so arrive early as the best items go quickly! 

Hallway in Bunker 42 Moscow

Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel : Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb.

An impressive 65 meters (or about 213 feet) underground, was the desired depth to protect Russia’s top officials from a nuclear attack.

Bunker 42 became operational in 1954. Fortunately, it was never needed for its true purpose, and instead it was used as the command center of strategic bombers for nearly 30 years.

Nowadays it's a museum dedicated to the Cold War and visiting is a truly unique experience!

You will need to join a tour in order to see the museum. You can call ahead to book your tour (the number is: +7 499 703-44-55), there are several English tours throughout the day that are held at 13:30, 16:30, and 18:30 (the price is 2200₽).

On Mondays, there is an extra tour at 17:30, which lasts an additional 30 minutes and costs 2800₽ per person. There is also the option to book a private tour. However, I am unsure of the price for this.

You will have to wait until exactly 15 minutes before your tour begins before you'll be admitted inside. After paying for your tickets and a quick restroom stop you will descend 65 meters underground…

Another option for visiting Bunker-42, if you would rather not do the tour, is to visit the restaurant inside Bunker-42. Actually, I highly recommend visiting the restaurant before or after a tour as well!

While the food is not that great, it’s worth visiting for a drink. The restaurant is also located within the bunker and is decorated in the old Soviet style.

From time to time there will be live performances and visiting Bunker 42 is definitely an experience worth having while in Moscow! After all, how many people can say they've had a drink in a top-secret Soviet military bunker?

If you’re visiting Moscow during peak season (June-July-August), it would be worth making a reservation, to avoid having to wait. Otherwise, I would not say you need to worry about a reservation at the restaurant.

Bunker-42 is a short cab ride away from Red Square (10-15 minutes). But I recommend taking the metro to get there. The closest station is Taganskaya, which is a beautiful metro station very much worth visiting.

Pedestrian boardwalk in Park Zaryad'ye (also called Zaryadye Park)

Park Zaryad'ye or Zaryadye Park is a lovely place for a stroll and a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing in Moscow, especially when exploring Moscow with kids.

There are many things to see and do in this park, but I recommend starting your visit at The River Overlook , a 70-meter-long boardwalk with beautiful views over the river and the Kremlin.

Other interesting places to visit in Zaryadye Park are the Ice Cave, The Museum of Nature, and The Glass Crust. But most importantly, do as the Muscovites do and find yourself a nice place in the park to sit down and relax.

Enjoy the view, do some people-watching, and take a moment to think back about all the Moscow top sights you've seen in the past couple of days.

View from Zaryadye Park Moscow

Where to stay in Moscow

There is a huge amount of hotels in Moscow, ranging from budget hostels to exquisite 5-star hotels. Below you can find three well-reviewed Moscow hotels (rating of 8.5+ on Agoda and  Booking ).

3-star hotel in Moscow: MIRROS Hotel Mokhovaya

best travel clothing sets

This 3-star hotel is one of the best budget Moscow hotels and is all about location! From the hotel, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Kremlin and only 600 meters to the Christ the Savior Cathedral.

Set in a historic 19th-century mansion, the hotel features classic rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

The staff is friendly and there is a metro station nearby (Borovitskaya), making it easy to get to the Moscow attractions a bit further afield.

Click here to book

Modern hotel in Moscow: Barin Residence Myasnitskaya

best travel clothing sets

The Barin Residence Myasnitskaya is a newly built hotel, located about 1.2km from the Red Square (about a 15-20 minute walk).

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern and clean, the beds are comfortable and room service is available. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a nice hotel without a hefty price tag.

Luxury hotel in Moscow: Hotel National Moscow

best travel clothing sets

Hotel National is potentially the best Moscow hotel. It's a gorgeous 5-star hotel located just a stone's throw away from the Bolshoi Theater, the Red Square, and the Kremlin.

The building was designed by architect Alexander Ivanov and completed in 1903 and has been welcoming international travelers ever since.

With its imperial architecture, luxury design, and charming classic rooms (some with a view of the Kremlin!), the Hotel National is a unique property.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center as well as the well-reviewed Beluga restaurant that serves both Russian and European dishes.

While this hotel doesn't come cheap, your stay at the Hotel National will make your trip to Moscow an unforgettable experience.

Moscow itinerary and travel guide: in conclusion

I hope this guide to Moscow will help you plan a trip to this interesting Russian city. Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment or  sending me an email !

Below you can find my other posts about the Trans Mongolian Express , and the stops we made along the way:

  • St. Petersburg itinerary
  • Irkutsk and Lake Baikal itinerary
  • Ulaanbaatar itinerary
  • Trans-Mongolian Express travel guide

Planning a trip to Moscow? This detailed Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and discover the best things to do in Moscow. #Moscow #Russia #CityTrip

This post was updated in December 2020.

  • Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Naked? With Strangers? In Europe, It’s How You Relax at the Spa.

Austria and Germany abound with popular resorts called thermen where getting the full sauna experience typically means having to take it all off.

An illustration of many people of many different ages and skin tones wearing no clothes, lounging in a flowery garden and a sauna. Leaves, flowers, books and steam inside the sauna obscure the bathers’ breasts and other private parts, and in the background, there is a bright blue lake and a snow-dappled mountain range.

By Valeriya Safronova

Valeriya Safronova, who is based in Vienna, steamed and soaked at three nude spas while reporting for this article.

Had I ever seen so much bare flesh in one room? Naked in a mixed-gender Austrian sauna, I sat opposite two dozen other nude people on wooden benches. Even after more than a year of living in Europe, as an American, I still felt a little uncomfortable sitting there in nothing but my own skin.

The sauna master came in to warm things up. Tall and lanky, wearing just a towel wrapped around his hips, he wheeled in a cart with several grapefruit-size balls of crushed ice infused with essential oils like black pepper, lime and eucalyptus. After a short speech telling us to leave immediately if we felt dizzy, he placed one of the ice balls onto a tray of hot coals, and it began to sizzle. The smell reminded me of an expensive aromatic candle: a touch sweet, a touch spicy.

He twisted forward, backward and sideways with a large towel clutched between his hands, like a half-dressed matador, moving the air around the room with a singular goal: to get us very, very hot, as part of a sauna ritual called aufguss, German for “infusion.” As I watched, mesmerized, I began to forget my awkwardness — or that I was even naked.

No swimsuits allowed

Austria and Germany abound with spas called thermen — resorts with pools, saunas, lakes, restaurants, bars and treatment areas. Typically, they have a warm mineral spring, and a section where nudity is required. Walk in wearing swim trunks and you’ll get glares and maybe even reprimands.

I had traveled to St. Martins Therme & Lodge in Frauenkirchen, a small town about an hour southeast of Vienna. St. Martins stands next to a serene, shallow lake where guests can swim in the summer or take a cold plunge in winter. At the center of the therme is an atrium with a pool that has indoor and outdoor areas connected via a tunnel, floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto the lake and several levels of balconies with rows of lounge chairs. The complex has five saunas and a steam room; 11 thermal pools; a treatment area with massages, facials and more; a restaurant; and a cafe. A day pass is 53 euros, or about $58.

After about five minutes of intense sweating in the sauna, we moved on to the second stage of the aufguss: Still naked, we filed outside into a courtyard with a whirlpool and walls covered in vines. My skin was so hot that the normally stinging 40-degree November air felt like a balm. An attendant handed each of us scoops of a salt-and-coconut-oil scrub, which we dutifully rubbed into our skin.

Thoroughly scoured, we returned to our perches inside, where the sauna master whipped out an oversize fan and spent the next six or seven minutes in a hot-air crescendo. After about 15 minutes total, the aufguss ended, and we flooded back out through the door, our bodies bright red and steamy.

Sit back, relax and ‘don’t stare’

The aufguss is just one of the joys of a day at a therme, which might also include a body treatment, a soak in a heated outdoor pool with rotating jets and a fresh schnitzel with an icy glass of wheat beer or sparkling apple juice. For locals in German-speaking countries, the aufguss is a hugely popular pastime, especially in the late fall and winter.

“I really enjoy it after a week of hard work, or when I just need relaxation, or if my body is really tense and my muscles are really stiff,” said Laura Blumenstiel, 29, a psychologist from Freiburg, in the southwestern corner of Germany, who has been a frequent visitor to thermen for about decade.

Typically, a therme complex is divided into two sections: one with several heated indoor and outdoor pools, where bathing suits are required and children are allowed, and a second that usually contains all the saunas, where clothing is verboten.

For some Americans, including me, nudity, especially in a mixed-gender environment, can initially feel extremely uncomfortable. Keon West, a professor of social psychology at Goldsmiths, University of London, explained that cultural standards often affect what level of nudity people find tolerable: In some places, seeing women with their hair uncovered might feel racy, while in others, stripping down on a public beach is perfectly acceptable.

“You might think the Germans are a bit risqué, whereas they think they’re normal, and you’re a bit silly,” Dr. West said.

In countries like the United States, he said, there is a “highly sexualized and puritanical culture, where sex is tightly controlled. Attitudes are generally much more conservative concerning what women do and women’s bodies. In Europe that tends to be less of the case.”

In a number of studies, Dr. West and his team have found that being naked around others can increase self-confidence and life satisfaction. “If you go to a naturist event, you see a lot of normal people, people who aren’t airbrushed and aren’t Beyoncé, and you realize you don’t look bad compared to the average person,” Dr. West said. “And you spend time naked in their company and nothing bad happens. No one says anything bad to you, no one laughs at you.”

Some Americans have found that the discomfort of being nude in the sauna is fleeting and has a worthwhile payoff.

After moving to Graz, Austria, Amy Feineman, 38, a saddle fitter originally from Colorado, made the hourlong drive to Rogner Bad Blumau , a colorful, trippy therme and hotel designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, an Austrian architect who believed that “the straight line is the curse of our civilization.” At the therme (day visit, €57), this philosophy translates to wavy floors, circular buildings with uneven ceilings, and bright orange, blue and green mosaics. On their first visit, Ms. Feineman and her husband skipped the nude sauna area, instead exploring the pools and outdoor gardens partly clothed. But on their second visit, they felt brave enough to bare it all in the sauna area.

“It took us most of our first day there to build up the courage to check it out, and then we spent most of our time there,” Ms. Feineman said. “I’m a plus-size person, and in the U.S., I would never wear a bikini in public. Here, I’m happily walking around the nude area.”

Ms. Feineman and her husband are regular guests at Rogner Bad Blumau now. Her main piece of advice for other nervous Americans? “Don’t stare,” she said. “And don’t worry about them judging you either.”

The most basic entry ticket to a therme, with the sauna section included, usually costs from €40 to €65, depending on how fancy or large the complex is. Typically, thermen offer at least three ticket options: a three- or four-hour pass, a day pass, and an evening pass. For example, Therme Erding in Germany, about an hour northeast of Munich, has 24 saunas and a large indoor-outdoor pool in the nude section, and costs €62 for an entire weekend day.

The best way to experience a therme is to relax and settle in for at least a half day. Bring a book. Schedule a massage, a facial or a “soft pack,” a treatment in which a massage therapist rubs a hydrating cream into your skin, then leaves you ensconced in a contraption that’s a cross between a sleeping bag and a warm water bed.

Thermen usually offer packages that encourage daylong retreats. For example, St. Martins, where my aufguss odyssey began, has an option that costs €107 and includes a bathrobe, slippers, unlimited towels and snacks.

Sweltering with a soundtrack

The sauna master was playing pulsing Austrian pop music and handing out bottles of cold, nonalcoholic beer to the 40 or so of us gathered at Alpentherme Gastein , about 90 minutes south of Salzburg (day visit, €45.50), for a party-themed evening aufguss. The balls of crushed ice flashed from the lights shining beneath them, and he encouraged us to chat, a rarity in most saunas.

Aufguss sessions come in all different types. Some sauna masters blast Metallica, while others prefer calming beats. Some dress up as Vikings. But there are two immutable rules: No clothes, and don’t enter an aufguss once it’s started (you can leave anytime).

A few other tips: Always sit on a towel in the dry saunas, claim your spot at an aufguss a few minutes early (the higher you sit, the hotter you’ll be), don’t bring your phone into nude areas, and shower before entering.

I had come a long way toward embracing my naked self by the time I sat down in the party-themed aufguss and started grooving to the music. It required a little bit of letting go: of my fears, of my ego and of my control. Glancing around — without staring, of course — I could see that no one around me looked like Jennifer Lopez or Jeremy Allen White. We were all just beautiful lumps and bumps.

Was anyone judging my body? To be honest, I was way too hot to care.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

Italy :  Spend 36 hours in Florence , seeking out its lesser-known pockets.

Southern California :  Skip the freeways to explore the back roads between Los Angeles and Los Olivos , a 100-mile route that meanders through mountains, canyons and star-studded enclaves.

Mongolia : Some young people, searching for less curated travel experiences, are flocking to the open spaces of this East Asian nation .

Romania :  Timisoara  may be the most noteworthy city you’ve probably never heard of , offering just enough for visitors to fill two or three days.

India: A writer fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills , taking in the tea gardens and riding a train through the hills.

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Helix Mattress Review: Our Experts and Testers Weigh In

We break down everything you need to know about the brand and its two best-selling mattresses.

helix mattress review

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Helix Dusk Luxe review

Helix midnight luxe review, differences between dusk luxe and midnight luxe, other mattress collections from helix, ordering, set-up and trial period, durability and life expectancy, the bottom line: are helix mattresses worth buying, why trust good housekeeping.

If you've been shopping for a mattress online rather than in stores, you've likely come across Helix. From social media ads to online articles, there's no denying the brand's strong presence in the Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) mattress industry. But beyond its promises of a personalized bed, do Helix's mattresses live up to the hype?

In this review, we'll dive into the brand's two most popular and best-selling mattresses, the Dusk Luxe and Midnight Luxe, discuss its Core and Elite Collections and evaluate Helix as a whole, from online ordering to customer service and unboxing.

Our verdict: Helix is one of the best places to buy a mattress . Its simple quiz and wide selection of hybrid mattresses proves user-friendly and streamlines the online mattress purchasing experience. The Dusk Luxe is a favorite among our testers and survey panelists, especially among couples and combination sleepers.

an analyst touches the helix dusk luxe

Helix mattress overview

Founded in 2015, Helix sought to simplify mattress shopping, offering mattresses based on answers to an easy quiz to match consumers to their ideal bed based on sleep style, body type and firmness preference. Instead of one or two mattresses with different firmness levels, the brand sells a wide selection of beds. Upon first glance they may appear similar in design, however, there is a clear distinction among product names like "Dusk" or "Sunrise," which allows for a personalized and seamless user experience. Helix's built-in comparison tool also lets you easily compare the similarities and differences side by side.

a room with helix mattresses

For years, Helix has carried 13 mattresses with six main series, but now, the brand offers 20 mattresses. Each of the lines (e.g. Midnight or Dusk) has a Core, Luxe and Elite model. Helix also carries a flippable kid's mattress with two firmness levels and their Helix Plus mattress designed for sleepers who weigh over 250 pounds, which was part of its original line-up.

Helix Dusk Luxe

Dusk Luxe

Performance

The Dusk Luxe is our pick for the best mattress for couples because it's combination sleeper-friendly and has a versatile medium firmness. It earned high scores from testers and panel members alike and remains one of the brand's most popular mattresses, second only to the Midnight Luxe (which we discuss further below). We also like the comfortable, built-in Euro top, which is rare to see on a boxed bed. The mattress is designed for back and stomach sleepers and has a responsive feel with a bit more bounce than your average hybrid. Lying down on the Dusk Luxe (with the cooling Glacio-Tex cover rather than the standard Tencel lyocell cover) for the first time, I remember feeling immediately comfortable and didn't want to get up. It had a luxurious, pillow-top texture with a textbook medium firmness feel.

the helix dusk luxe in home of a consumer tester

Overall comfort & support

Our reviewers, especially couples and combination sleepers, appreciate the balanced, supportive feel of the Dusk Luxe. "The mattress is contouring but feels supportive under pressure points," said one tester. "I like that the mattress is soft and conforming enough for [sleeping on my back] and supportive enough for side or [stomach] sleeping." Another user told us it was a good fit for her as a side sleeper and her partner, a back sleeper. She described the bed as "not too soft so you don't sink in, but not so hard that it doesn't move to best support you." Others commented on how easy it was to switch positions at night and spoke highly of the comfortable depth.

Still, a few wished it was a bit more firm. If you prefer a firmer bed, we recommend the Dawn Luxe .

Edge support

Helix's Dusk Luxe is a hybrid mattress with several layers of foam on top of coils. Typically, innerspring mattresses have excellent edge support, whereas foam mattresses struggle to provide the same sturdy edges. Our reviewers don't always agree on Dusk Luxe here: Some find the edge support much better than other beds they've tried, while other reviewers say it leaves much to be desired. I personally found it middle of the road — I've encountered mattresses with much worse edge support, but it's not particularly noteworthy.

Motion isolation

While innerspring mattresses often have poor motion isolation and foam mattresses isolate and absorb any motion, rather than transferring it, hybrid mattresses fall somewhere in the middle. Most of our testers and panelists found the motion isolation adequate, but some noted they could feel movement if their partner was too close to them in the bed.

Temperature

Memory foam, which is used in the top layers of the Dusk Luxe, is notorious for trapping heat while innerspring coils can help provide breathability. A hybrid bed, once again, falls in the middle, making it a nice compromise. Testers who previously slept on foam beds noticed improved sleep. "The first night we had the Helix, I didn't wake up sweaty at all and woke up feeling more refreshed than I had in months. It felt like a revelation," said one. Still, while it sleeps cooler than a memory foam mattress , it isn't the coolest mattress on the market. Helix also offers the option to add on a cool-to-the-touch GlacioTex cover for an extra fee, which one of our reviewers is currently in the process of testing.

Like most hybrids, the 13.5-inch Dusk Luxe combines layers of foam with a coil base.

layer by layer view of the helix dusk luxe mattress

The Dusk Luxe's six layers, from top to bottom:

  • Quilted top: Helix offers a soft Tencel lyocell quilted top on all of their Luxe mattresses or the option to upgrade to their GlacioTex Cooling Cover, which feels smooth and cool to the touch.
  • Helix Responsive Foam: A medium-firm layer of foam that's designed to "cradle and contour to your body for optimal support and comfort."
  • Helix Dynamic Foam: Made of both latex and memory foam, this layer provides support with a responsive feel.
  • Memory Plus Foam: A foam layer that adapts to your weight, providing targeted support.
  • Zoned Coil System: A system of up to 1,000 individually wrapped coils (depending on bed size), featuring extra support under the hips to help provide lumbar support and promote spinal alignment. There are also reinforced coils along the sides for edge support.
  • DuraDense Foam: The bottom layer of the mattress, this foam provides a base foundation for the entire bed.

Helix Midnight Luxe

Midnight Luxe

Helix's best-selling mattress is the Midnight Luxe. It's made for side sleepers , the most common sleeping position, and has the same medium level of firmness as the Dusk Luxe along with the built-in Euro top. Our testers, including side sleepers and side-back combo sleepers, gave the model high scores across the board. I've tried out the Midnight Luxe, and it's not hard to see why it's a crowd favorite. It has a classic foam hybrid feel: The foam contours to the shape of your body and cradles pressure points. Those who like the feel of soft memory foam will love the way this mattress cushions their bodies rather than crushing it, like traditional firm innerspring beds might, but users who prefer to feel like they're sleeping "on top of" their beds may find it less than ideal.

the helix midnight luxe in a tester's home

As expected, the Midnight Luxe was especially popular among side sleepers on our panel who appreciated the comfortable pillow top and cushioned feel. One consumer tester noted, "I like how my shoulder and arm sink into the mattress, so I don't feel pain in my shoulder." Others agreed: "I love this mattress! I sink into it as I sleep, making it feel comfortable and cloud-like," said one combination sleeper. "I sleep with my partner and we both really like how it feels when we lay in all positions — side, stomach and back." She also noted that as someone with a large bust, she finds it comfortable even when sleeping on her stomach.

The Midnight Luxe has a true medium feel, so if you're a side sleeper looking for something a little more plush (which was the case for some survey panelists), consider the Sunset Luxe instead.

It's similar to the Dusk Luxe with medium edge support. One of our reviewers summarized, "the edge of the bed definitely sinks in, but not so much that you can't sit on the edge."

Since the Midnight Luxe has a classic foam hybrid feel, there isn't much bounce. As a result, it has great motion isolation. One tester shared, "I don't feel [my partner's] tossing and turning as much as I did with our previous mattress, which is a game changer — seriously."

Our reviewers were divided on whether they maintained a comfortable body temperature on this bed. While there weren't any complaints, users gave it moderate scores overall. One tester with the cooling cover version commented that while she hasn't felt as hot or sweaty at night, "it doesn't feel particularly cool."

The 13.5-inch Midnight Luxe is comprised of foam layers on top of coils.

layer by layer view of the helix midnight luxe mattress

The Midnight Luxe's six layers, from top to bottom:

  • Quilted top: Like the Dusk Luxe, you can choose between a soft Tencel lyocell quilted top or a smooth GlacioTex Cooling Cover.
  • Helix Responsive Foam: A medium-firm foam layer intended to "cradle and contour to your body for optimal support and comfort."
  • Copper Gel Memory Foam: This layer is designed to contour to your body for extra comfort.
  • Memory Plus Foam: This layer adapts to your weight and provides targeted support.
  • Zoned Coil System: 1,000 individually wrapped coils (depending on bed size) provide firmer support around the lumbar region to promote spinal alignment. Reinforced coils line the sides for extra edge support.
  • DuraDense Foam: The base foam for the entire bed provides a uniform foundation.

Both mattresses provide the same level of medium firmness. However, Midnight Luxe is designed for side sleepers and the Dusk is best for back and stomach sleepers. Both mattresses seem to have almost identical construction, except for the fact that the Dusk Luxe uses a middle layer of Helix Dynamic Foam, while the Midnight Luxe opts for Copper Gel Memory Foam.

Adam Tishman, co-president of 3Z Brands and co-founder of Helix, told us that the side-sleeper models, like the Midnight Luxe, "feature more memory foam and cushioning layers to provide pressure relief to joints, like shoulders and hips, for side sleepers." To put it simply, the foam sinks in a bit more to contour to the body. In comparison, the Dusk Luxe and other back- and stomach-sleepers models (including the Moonlight line) are designed to provide spinal support without the sinking-in feeling. As someone who has tried both beds, I can confirm that the Dusk series has a more responsive feel, ideal for anyone who wants to feel like they're sleeping "on top of" their mattress, and the Midnight series has a little more give, contouring well to my body.

Aside from its popular Luxe series, Helix also offers their original Core line and the new Elite Collection. All its models are memory foam hybrid mattresses. Their six main mattresses — Sunset, Moonlight, Midnight, Dusk, Twilight and Dawn — are each available in Core, Luxe or Elite. And those mattresses all fall into one of three firmness levels (soft, medium and firm) and one of two intended audiences (side sleepers or back and stomach sleepers).

Helix's Core collection

layer by layer view of the helix midnight mattress

All the Core mattresses (e.g. the Dusk rather than the Dusk Luxe) are 11.5 inches in height and have a hybrid design comprised of five layers. Compared to the Luxe, it has thinner comfort layers, a flat top (rather than quilted) and uniform coils (rather than zoned). We often see it priced at $1,099 for a Queen size, running around $800 cheaper than the Luxe, so while it isn't the cheapest hybrid mattress you'll find, it's definitely more affordable.

Helix's Elite collection

layer by layer view of the helix midnight elite mattress

The Elite mattresses are Helix's expansion into the luxury mattress market, made with a whopping nine layers, including two layers of microcoils that are layered with foam for targeted pressure relief and extra breathability. So far, our reviewers love the indulgent comfort of the Midnight Elite , but note the edge support isn't the best because of its tall 16-inch height. Still, the upgraded bed comes at a higher cost, running around $1,000 more (~$2,749) than the Luxe.

In our evaluations, good boxed hybrid mattresses usually cost around $1,500–$2,000 for a Queen size. That being said, there are exceptions: We've seen standout options for under $1,000 and pricier models worth the splurge.

Helix shows its pricing as an MSRP with a sale markdown, but we’ve never actually seen it listed for the MSRP, which falls outside of our range at $2,373.80 for a Queen size Luxe model. In fact, we consistently see it selling for 20% off (~$1,899 for a Queen size Luxe model), so avoid buying solely based on the apparent “sale.” Still, while it's on the pricier end of our range, many of our panelists found it worth the cost.

As an introvert, I personally appreciate how simple and non-invasive shopping on Helix feels. The website provides a wealth of information in a digestible format, from the simple sleep quiz to the comparison tool. I find I don't always agree with the results, but I appreciate how I can easily compare different mattress models on the website and look into each layer of any mattress. Plus, Helix still has a chat function if you run into any other questions. Our survey respondents agreed, praising the brand's easy-to-shop interface. One noted, "The website made it easy to compare options without any confusion or sales talk."

Like many online mattress brands, Helix's beds come rolled up and compressed in a box for DIY set-up. The unboxing experience varies depending on the mattress size, type and, honestly, how familiar you are with a bed-in-a-box. Helix's mattresses aren't the most tedious mattresses to unbox, but its most popular mattresses, the Midnight Luxe and Dawn Luxe, are by no means, as light as memory foam mattresses.

While all our testers were able to set up their Helix mattresses, they unanimously agreed it was notably heavy and required at least two people to unbox. Several users also disliked the lack of handles on the sides, which make it harder for them to maneuver the mattresses. Still, many reported it was well worth the effort.

The newly released Elite Collection comes with side handles, but at 16 inches tall, they are heavier. Take note that these mattresses come in two separate boxes, so you'll need to slot in the top layer of the mattress and zip it up. One of our testers shared that the two boxes came at different times, due to the unpredictability of shipping facilities. Still, once both made their way into her bedroom, she had no issues setting it up.

Prior to COVID-19, Helix offered in-home delivery and mattress removal nationwide for an added fee, but it has since suspended those services. The brand continues to offer free shipping to all U.S. orders.

Trial period

Helix offers a 100-night sleep trial, meaning you can return your mattress for a full refund within the trial period, as long as it's after the required 30-day break-in period.

Note, in past years, some panelists told us it took a while to get a hold of customer service compared to other brands they've shopped at.

According to Helix , "quality hybrid mattresses, such as those manufactured by Helix Sleep, last approximately 10 years." As the brand launched in August 2015, and has redesigned their mattresses since (from their initial custom options), we aren't able to verify that claim. That being said, we've noticed less complaints in our most recent surveys as Helix's offerings have solidified.

Yes, Helix mattresses are worth trying. It's hard to say that any mattress is right for everyone, but Helix has a proven track record in our evaluations with its Luxe hybrids. Our survey panelists found the online shopping experience seamless and, for many, it paid off. Several users — all with different sleep positions and firmness preferences — told us they wished they didn't hesitate as long before purchasing from the brand and called their Helix mattresses the best beds they've ever slept on. Plus, there's always the 100-night sleep trial in case you change your mind.

Grace Wu , a textiles product review analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute, coordinated recent at-home consumer testing of over 100 mattresses. In 2023, she visited Helix's factory in Arizona and personally assessed 12 out of the brand's 20 mattresses (her favorites were the Dusk Luxe and Midnight Elite). Grace has written many stories on mattresses, including the best hybrid mattresses , best pillow-top mattresses and best mattress for heavy people . Prior to joining GH, she earned a Master of Engineering in materials science and engineering and a Bachelor of Science in fiber science from Cornell University.

Headshot of Grace Wu

Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Mattress Reviews

a stack of mattresses from good housekeeping's test for the best mattress

The Best Mattresses for Adjustable Beds

the best cooling mattresses for hot sleepers

The Best Cooling Mattresses for Hot Sleepers

4 best smart mattresses and smart beds to upgrade your sleep

The Best Smart Mattresses

the best mattress toppers of 2023

The Best Mattress Toppers

the best hybrid mattresses

The Best Hybrid Mattresses

10 best mattresses for kids of all ages

The Best Mattresses for Kids of All Ages

best mattresses for back pain, according to experts, nolah original 10

Best Mattresses for Back Pain 2024

sleep number vs tempur pedic

Sleep Number vs. Tempur-Pedic: Which Is Best?

10 best mattresses for stomach sleepers

Best Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers

nolah mattress

Nolah Mattress Review

mattress review

Tempur-Pedic Mattresses: An Honest Review

  • Search Please fill out this field.
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Sweepstakes
  • Travel Products

The 12 Best Travel Pants for Women of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 40 pairs of pants to find the best options for every traveler.

Anna Popp is a Commerce Writer at Travel + Leisure where she tests, researches, and writes about travel products. Since living overseas in 2018, Anna has been a travel writer and began reviewing products in 2021.

best travel clothing sets

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 / Elena Garcia

Building up a wardrobe of travel clothing can be a challenging process. Luckily, we tested a whopping 40 pairs of women’s travel pants so you don’t have to. From long-haul flights to commuting to the office, we thoroughly examined each pair of pants for qualities like comfort, durability, fit, and design to recommend the very best styles for every adventure. 

To test out a variety of styles, sizes, and colors, we tried out trousers, leggings, joggers, cargo, wide-leg, and straight-leg pants to make sure we covered all of our bases when it came to style preferences. We researched and chose travel pants from trusted brands like Lululemon, Spanx, and Everlane and wore them as often as we could during the multi-week testing period. Based on our results, we selected 11 pants that are stylish and comfortable, making them the perfect new addition to any travel wardrobe.

Best Overall

Lululemon high-rise jogger.

  • Comfort 5 /5
  • Design 4.5 /5

The waistband is stretchy and the material is exceptionally soft.

The fabric is a bit baggy. 

These Lululemon joggers have all the comfort of sweatpants with a more elevated look thanks to the tapered leg and silky-soft fabric. Designed for sitting on a plane for hours or sprinting through an airport, the nylon blend fabric will keep you cozy when there’s a draft and plenty cool in humid conditions. We’re big fans of the stretchy waistband that is lined with an incredibly soft fabric so it won’t cause any itching or discomfort. The drawstring waist also makes it easy to adjust the fit, but we found that the 0 to 20 size range runs true to size so adjustment may not be necessary. The pockets are helpful for storing your phone or passport and the sturdy waistband keeps these pants from falling down, even with packed pockets.

We found the material to be a tad baggy and wished the taper around the shins was a bit slimmer, but we didn’t mind the roomier feel in the rest of the legs. After machine washing these pants several times over a five-month period, they look good as new, so we feel confident the high-quality fabric and stitchwork will ensure a long lifespan, making them an excellent choice for frequent fliers.

The Details: 0 to 20 | Nylon, lycra, polyester, elastane | High-rise waist | Pockets

Travel + Leisure / Elena Garcia

Best Budget

Libin cargo joggers.

  • Design 4 /5

There are tons of pockets to place items like a phone, passport, or keys. 

These pants run small, so consider sizing up. 

If you’re in a pinch for time before a trip, these budget-friendly cargo joggers from Amazon are super comfortable and will arrive in time with a Prime membership. Our favorite thing about these travel pants is the number of useful pockets on the front, back, and sides. After five months of use for travel, trips to the gym, and running errands, they still look and feel good as new.

The front and back pockets have zippers to give you peace of mind that your valuables will be safely tucked away whether you’re on an airplane or walking down the street. The polyester material is extremely lightweight and breathable, so these pants are ideal for traveling in warmer climates but might not be warm enough in the winter. Plus, the UPF 50+ sun protection built into the fabric is a huge benefit for traveling in the summer. We found they run a bit small, so we recommend sizing up to get the best fit.

The Details: XS to 3XL | Polyester, spandex | UPF 50+ | Zippered pockets 

Travel + Leisure / Kim Sommerfeldt

Watch How We Test Travel Products

Best wrinkle-resistant, everlane pant.

  • Comfort 4.5 /5

The wrinkle-resistant fabric can withstand being packed in a suitcase for long periods of time. 

The pants have cropped legs. 

Packing clothing that’s prone to wrinkling can be difficult, so we love that the cotton blend fabric used to make these Everlane slacks is resistant to wrinkles. The fabric is soft and breathable but thick enough to wear in cooler temperatures which is ideal for year-round traveling. While these pants run true to size, the waistband has a slight stretch to it so we were plenty comfortable while wearing them for a 12-plus-hour day of traveling. After being worn over a five-month period, the quality of the fabric and stitchwork never faltered or showed signs of pilling or fading. Plus, the pants can be machine washed and hung up to dry for easy cleaning. The only thing to note is that these come in a single cropped length so if you’re tall, they may be extra cropped.

The Details: XXS to 4XL | Cotton, modal, elastane | Wrinkle resistant | Pockets 

Best Straight Leg

Spanx the perfect pant, slim straight.

Spanx 

  • Design 5 /5

The pants look professional and sleek but are soft and cozy like sweatpants.

They are a bit dressier than other travel pants.

From the office to the airport, these comfortable slacks are the perfect pair of bottoms for a more elevated travel look. The best part of these pants is that they have the comfort of a pair of leggings thanks to the stretchy and soft rayon blend fabric, but the straight-leg design makes them incredibly versatile. The material is fairly thick, so they’re best suited to moderate temperatures and might be a bit too warm in hotter climates. With a high-waisted fit, the waistband is nice and stretchy while still feeling compressing and flattering thanks to the thicker fabric trim. We had some issues navigating the size chart, so if you’re in between sizes, you may want to order a size up in addition to your regular size and return the one that doesn’t fit (Spanx has a generous 90-day return policy).

The Details: XS to 3XL (regular, petite, tall) | Rayon, elastane, polyester | No pockets

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Liverpool The Gia Glider Ankle Skinny Jean

These jeggings are the perfect combination of comfortable and stylish.

Since there is a faux button closure, we noticed the elastic waistband does stretch out over time.

For those who love both the look of jeans and the comfort of leggings, these Liverpool travel pants offer the best of both worlds. The cotton blend material is just as soft as any pair of stretchy leggings but they look exactly like a pair of denim skinny jeans. We found the material to be thicker than an average pair of leggings making these perfect for cooler climates, but the fabric is still thinner than jeans so they’re well suited for all seasons. Plus, these pants have functional pockets in the front and back with a faux zipper and button to make them appear identical to a pair of jeans. We noticed these pants stretch out after being worn several times, but putting them through the washer and dryer returns them to their original true-to-size fit.

The Details: 0 to 16 | Cotton, rayon, modal | Mid-rise | Faux zipper | Back pockets

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Best Splurge

Frank & eileen murphy billion dollar pant.

Frank & Eileen

The high-quality materials and effortlessly stylish design of these pants make them well worth the higher price point. 

The back pockets are just for show. 

Frequent travelers will appreciate the luxurious feel and effortless style that comes with wearing the Frank & Eileen Murphy Billion Dollar Pant. While the pants are certainly an investment due to the higher price, they exceeded our high expectations for the cost. The pants run true to size and are easy to slip on thanks to the silky-smooth fabric which has enough stretch so that mobility isn’t compromised. The tapered legs that crop at the ankles make it easy to pair these pants with sneakers for a casual look or heels for going out to a nice dinner on vacation. We love that the front pockets are big enough to hold a phone discreetly, but note that the back pockets are just for show. Apart from the stylish silhouette, these pants can be machine washed and air dried for hassle-free upkeep, and we feel confident the quality of the materials will hold up well over time.

The Details: XS to XL | Cotton, spandex | Mid-rise | Front pockets | Faux back pockets

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

  • Travel + Leisure/Tamara Staples

Best Sustainable

Wayre jetsetter trouser.

These wide-leg pants are made entirely of recycled plastic water bottles. 

The fabric might not be warm enough for the winter.

These wide-leg pants from Wayre are specially designed for travelers thanks to the stylish silhouette and four-way stretch fabric made of recycled water bottles from landfills in Taiwan. One of our favorite features of the Jetsetter Trousers is that they come with a variety of discreet zippered side pockets that are specifically designed to hold a passport or credit cards. Besides the pockets, we love that these true-to-size pants come in a wide range of size options and the stretchy waistband offers just the right amount of give without feeling too tight or loose. After several washes over a five-month period, they did not stretch or fade at all. While the recycled material is soft and breathable, it might not be warm enough for colder weather. Finally, we found these pants to be wrinkle-, spill-, and stain-resistant due to antimicrobials built into the fabric, and they have UPF 30+ sun protection, too.

The Details: 00 to 20 | Aire-flex fabric | High-rise | Wrinkle resistant | Zipper pockets

Travel + Leisure / Julia Sayers

Best Lightweight

Everlane the easy pant.

The cotton and twill fabric is breathable and airy without feeling thin or flimsy. 

The fabric wrinkles easily. 

Everlane’s The Easy Pant lives up to its name, being one of the most versatile pairs of pants we tested. The simple wide-leg design goes with virtually any top and the elastic waistband makes it a breeze to slip them on and head out the door in a pinch. Made from a cotton blend fabric, the bottoms are airy and breathable without being see-through or thin, but they do wrinkle fairly easily, which is something to note for traveling. The material is thicker than expected which makes these pants functional for fall or spring when the temperatures are a bit cooler. And if you tend to run warm while sitting on a plane or sightseeing in the summer, these pants have a cooling effect so you won’t get sweaty or clammy. In fact, after five months of regularly using these pants, we found them to get more comfortable the more we wore them. The only downside is that they aren’t adjustable, so you’ll want to follow Everlane’s sizing guide to ensure you get the right fit.

The Details: XXS to XL | Cotton, elastane | Pockets

Best Leggings with Pockets

Lululemon wunder train high-rise tight with pockets.

  • Quality 5 /5

The material is stretchy enough for all-day comfort without feeling restrictive.

The pants aren’t warm enough for cold weather. 

These buttery smooth leggings from Lululemon are made with a stretchy and cooling nylon material that’s warm enough for the airplane but plenty breathable for long days on your feet. The leggings come in a huge range of sizes and color options to choose from and the high-rise waistband has enough give that it doesn’t squeeze or dig into the waist. Since the material is quite breathable, these pants might not be the warmest for winter travel but they will still keep your legs warm in moderate temperatures or if there’s a draft on the plane. The highlight of these leggings is the discreet side pockets that make it super easy to slip earbuds, a phone, passport, or an airplane ticket into the pocket for convenient access while traveling. And when you’re carrying cash or a credit card, there’s even a hidden pocket in the back of the waistband for additional storage.

The Details: 0 to 20 | Nylon, lycra | 23 and 25-inch lengths | High rise | Side pockets

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Mcintyre

Best Leggings

Abercrombie & fitch ypb studiosoft legging.

Abercrombie & Fitch

They boast the same quality as Lululemon leggings but cost less. 

There aren’t any pockets. 

For a pair of comfortable and soft leggings, you can’t go wrong with this pair from Abercrombie’s YPB collection. After five months of use, we didn't notice any pilling, stretching, or fraying, plus the nylon material feels just as soft and compressing as similar Lululemon styles — and these are available at a fraction of the price. While there aren’t any pockets, we didn’t find this to be a dealbreaker, especially for those who often travel with a sling bag or tote bag anyway. One of the best things about these leggings is they run true to size and come in short, regular, and long sizes for an optimal fit in both the waist and legs. After working out and washing these pants many times, they still look good as new. We found these wallet-friendly leggings offer excellent value for the high-quality materials and lower price.

The Details: XXS to XXL (short, regular, long) | Nylon, elastane | High-waisted

Travel + Leisure / Sophia DeVito

Best Wide-leg

Cozy earth women's modern modal wide leg pant.

Cozy Earth 

The fabric is cozy and silky-smooth which is ideal for long-haul flights.

The legs are very long.

These Cozy Earth travel pants are basically a pair of elevated pajamas that can be worn for long-haul flights or while lounging around the hotel. The loose-fitting pants are made with a buttery soft modal fabric blend that is breathable and moisture-wicking while still feeling warm enough for chilly flights or cooler weather. We loved that these pants have a wide-leg fit that made us feel like we were wearing a cozy blanket while still offering a full range of motion while walking or sitting. The elastic waistband has a high-waisted fit and the pants run true to size, but the legs are very long so if you’re shorter, you may need to get them hemmed or they will drag on the ground. Best of all, these pants don’t wrinkle easily and the fabric feels durable enough to be worn time and time again without the quality diminishing.  

The Details: XS to 4XL | Modal, polyester, spandex | Pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jodi Epsinosa

Quince 100 Percent European Linen Pants

They fit true to size and hug the body without feeling too clingy.

We wish the waistband had a drawstring for adjustability.

These 100 percent linen pants are the perfect choice for early flights or long days of sightseeing. The linen doesn't wrinkle nearly as much as we would expect so you can wear them while sitting for long periods of time or pack them in your suitcase without worry. The material is thick enough that you can't see undergarments through even the lighter colorways, yet these pants are still light and breezy. They also feature two side pockets and one back pocket so you can store all of the travel essentials you may want on-hand.

Throughout our months of testing, they did not show any signs of fading or piling, even after multiple washes. They even survived coming out of the dryer without shrinking in any way. These straight-leg pants hit just above the ankle, making them a fun choice to pair with sneakers, sandals, or even heels, depending on your day's itinerary. While we love the true-to-size fit of these linen pants, they do not have a drawstring at the waistband and tend to stretch out throughout the day, so we recommend sizing down if you're between sizes.

The Details: XS to XL | Flax linen | 25-inch lengths | Two side pockets and one back pocket

Other Travel Pants We Liked

While the pants below scored highly, we ran into some slight issues during testing that knocked off a few points for quality and fit. However, we still felt they earned an honorable mention.

Quince Ultra-stretch Ponte Straight Leg Pant : The material is thick and cozy, but we wish the waistband had a bit more compression to it for a more comfortable fit. 

SweatyRocks Women's Casual Wide Leg Trousers : These budget-friendly trousers are versatile enough to take you from the airport to the office, but we didn’t love the fake pockets for practical purposes.

We got our hands on 40 pairs of travel pants from notable clothing brands like Vuori, Lululemon, Athleta, and more to uncover the best styles for every type of trip. From leggings to trousers, we covered our bases by trying a variety of styles, colors, and sizes to get thorough testing insights on each pair of pants. 

Whether traveling by plane, train, or car, we wore the pants for hours on end to get a feel for their overall fit, quality, and comfort. After wearing them on long-haul flights, in the office, or on lengthy road trips over a five-month period, we noted if the pants ran true to size, remained comfortable for long periods of time, and held up after being washed multiple times. In the end, our favorite pants for travel had the perfect balance of being breathable and warm, soft and cozy, and offered superior versatility no matter what kind of adventure they were needed for.

Tips for Buying Travel Pants

Opt for wrinkle-resistant materials.

Since your clothing will likely be tucked away in a suitcase at some point while traveling, it helps to get a pair of pants that have wrinkle-resistant qualities. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and elastane have anti-wrinkling properties which make them excellent fabrics for traveling. Generally, materials like cotton, linen, and hemp are prone to wrinkling if they aren’t mixed with other synthetic fabrics. You’ll want to check the specifications while shopping for a pair of pants to see what the materials are and if they are made with any type of wrinkle-resistant treatment. 

Look for pockets

While not having pockets isn’t a dealbreaker by any means, they are helpful for conveniently accessing items on the go. Pockets can also be handy for tucking away valuables like credit cards, passports, and cash, especially if the pants offer zippers in discreet places. 

This is ultimately a personal preference, and we tested dozens of different styles to offer plenty of versatile options. Common comfy pants styles you might see in an airport include joggers, leggings, and sweatpants, but you’ll also see trousers and straight-leg pants for a more elevated but still comfortable travel look. 

Travel pants can be made of all types of both synthetic and natural fibers. The most common materials you’ll see are polyester, cotton, nylon, spandex, elastane, and linen. Synthetic fabrics are better if you’re looking for a pair of wrinkle-resistant pants and natural fibers are usually better for breathability and moisture-wicking properties. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L Commerce Writer Anna Popp reviews travel products and writes most of the team’s Travel + Leisure Trusted articles. She owns several pairs of pants on this list and tested each pair on domestic and international trips. She drew from her knowledge of wearing travel pants and combed through in-house testing notes to write this list of the best travel pants for every adventure and style preference. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

best travel clothing sets

COMMENTS

  1. 32 Best Women's Loungewear Sets for Long Travel Days

    Outdoor Voices CloudKnit Boxy shortsleeve. A new addition to OV's ultra-soft, lightweight, and durable CloudKnit line-up: this boxy T-shirt with a slightly cropped fit. It comes in charcoal, navy ...

  2. The 12 Best Matching Sets for Women of 2024

    The 12 Best Matching Sets for Women of 2024. We found your new go-to travel outfits, from linen two-pieces to silk sets.

  3. The Best Travel Clothes and Accessories for Women of 2024

    The pants are on the tighter side fit-wise, so you may want to size up for maximum comfort on long flights, and we also found them to be a bit prone to wrinkles. They do have UPF 50+ sun ...

  4. The Best Travel Clothing Brands of 2024

    We researched the best travel clothing brands that design versatile, wrinkle-resistant, and easy-to-pack clothing. ... The 12 Best Matching Sets for Women of 2024.

  5. BEST Travel Clothes For Women (Sample Travel Outfits)

    Solid Color Crop Tops. Price - $29 | Material - Nylon/Spandex. I consider crop tops essential travel clothes for women. Solid color crops go with almost everything and are easy to pack. Best of all, it's a trendy look that can work on various women. I mix and match them with shorts, pants, or a skirt.

  6. Best Travel Gear of 2023, According to Our Readers

    The brand gave the Easy Tote a little facelift in 2023—it can now be fully zipped, making it an even more secure travel companion. It's lightweight, sleek, and the quality speaks for itself. You ...

  7. The Best Travel Gear and Accessories of 2023

    Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case. $95 at Calpak. Credit: Calpak. Our pros love this clear toiletry bag for any sort of travel thanks to its spacious, organized interior that features two zippered ...

  8. Essential Travel Clothing Brands: The Globetrotter's Guide

    The Eddie Bauer Departure Shirt is lightweight and moisture-wicking, perfect for travel! Paired with Rebecca Minkoff Backpack and Taos Star Sneakers. In 2011, I set off on a mission to figure out how to choose the best travel clothing without sacrificing my personal style or skimping out on functionality.

  9. Best Travel Outfits for Women 2024

    Original Puffer Hug Scarf. Now 70% Off. $15 at pufferhug.com. Credit: Puffer Hug. If you're traveling for business to a location that you're not thrilled about, chances are you are in need of a hug. Don't worry, this puffer hug scarf doubles as a warm wrap to keep you cozy and a hug to make you feel loved.

  10. The Best Gear for Travel in 2024

    The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6″ Boxer Brief is the best men's underwear for travel because it balances fit, comfort, odor-proofing, and value better than anything else we've tested ...

  11. 17 Best Travel Clothing Brands for Men and Women

    Here is a list of the best travel clothing brands for both men and women. Best Travel Clothes Overall: One Golden Thread. Best Budget Travel Clothes: Columbia. Best Adventure Travel Clothes: Arc'teryx. Best Ethically Sourced Travel Clothes: Patagonia. Best Business Travel Clothes: Bluffworks.

  12. Anatomie Essential Travel Clothes

    Explore Anatomie's range of wrinkle-free, luxury travel clothes for women and men! Wander the world in comfort while looking stylish & put together. ... Skyler Cozy Fleece-Lined Travel Pant Skyler Cozy Fleece-Lined Travel Pant Regular price $ 248 Regular price Sale price $ 248 Unit price / per ...

  13. 13 Knit-Set Outfits That Are Perfect for Travel

    From rainbow stripes to cheery colors and clean neutrals, shop the coolest knit sets below. Jonathan Simkhai. Perla Linen Rib Polo Cardigan in Beige. $345. SHOP NOW. The polo collar really makes this knit feel fresh. Jonathan Simkhai. Colbie Linen Rib Bell Bottom Pant in Beige. $295.

  14. The 15 Best Loungewear Sets for Women of 2024

    The seven gauge jersey knit is incredibly soft and breathable, thanks to a blend of high-quality merino wool and organic cotton. Merino wool is a favorite fabric for travelers thanks to its ...

  15. Women's Travel Clothing and Apparel

    Shop the 2024 Boston Proper collection for wrinkle-resistant women's travel apparel, perfect for everyday wear and travel adventures. ... Beyond Travel Tops; Beyond Travel Sets; ABOUT THE COLLECTION. STRETCH KNIT BOTTOMS. BESTSELLING BLAZERS. ... Wrinkle free travel clothes provide comfort while flying or driving to your destination and are the ...

  16. Amazon.com: Women's Travel Outfits

    Women 2 Piece Outfits Sweatsuit Set 2023 Fall Oversized Half Zip Sweatshirt Wide Leg Sweatpant Lounge Set Tracksuit. ... Best Seller in Women's Tracksuits +11 colors/patterns. ... Womens Jumpsuits Casual Dressy Rompers One Piece Wide Leg Pant Suit Summer 2024 Comfy Jumper Travel Outfits. 4.2 out of 5 stars 57. 50+ bought in past month.

  17. 13 essential travel products for plus-sized women

    Plus-sized travel isn't just about finding the right travel clothes; ... The 35 best travel backpacks in 2024. Printfresh Bagheera plus-sized pajamas Printfresh. Experienced travelers know the ...

  18. 11 Best Luggage Sets 2024

    The Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Set features two essential travel companions: a carry-on and a check-in bag, perfectly sized for most US airlines' overhead compartments and longer journey ...

  19. Shopping Moscow, Russia

    Tryokhgornaya Manufaktura Factory Outlet. Presnya. Tryokhgornaya Manufaktura is one of the oldest textile factories in Russia, founded in 1799 on the banks of the Moscow River. The factory played a key….

  20. These Are the Most Comfortable Travel Clothes for Every Trip

    The Best Wrinkle-resistant Clothing for Travel of 2024 This Is the Only Cold-weather Packing List You Need This Winter The 12 Best Swimsuit Brands of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

  21. 30+ Best Things to Do in Moscow, Russia by a Resident of Moscow

    20.) Visit Victory Park. Victory Park (aka Park Pobedy) in Moscow is home to 13 unique memorials, more than 300 pieces of weaponry, the largest flower clock in the world, 13 restaurants, a synagogue, a mosque, and an Orthodox chapel. It's quite an interesting mix worth seeing if your schedule allows.

  22. Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

    James Ian at Travel Collecting: one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, ... Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel: Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb. ... Set in a historic 19th-century mansion ...

  23. 20 of the Best Restaurants in Moscow, Russia by a Local

    Click here for the Choice website. 4.) Lucky Izakaya Bar ($$-$$$ | Asian Fusion | Casual - Trendy) While an Izakaya is a casual Japanese drinking house, that is not what you'll find at "Lucky Izakaya Bar" in Moscow. This is an upscale dining experience that serves phenomenal fusion food in a wonderful atmosphere.

  24. The Best Loungewear for Comfortable Travel of 2024

    Best Sweatshirt: Cuyana Fleece Long Crewneck Sweatshirt at Cuyana.com (See Price) Jump to Review. Best Sweatshirt for Men: Nike Men's Club Crewneck Sweatshirt at Amazon ($73) Jump to Review ...

  25. Visiting Nude Saunas in Austria and Germany Without Feeling Awkward

    Austria and Germany abound with popular resorts called thermen where getting the full sauna experience typically means having to take it all off.

  26. Helix Mattress Review 2024: Tested by Experts

    Helix's best-selling mattress is the Midnight Luxe. It's made for side sleepers , the most common sleeping position, and has the same medium level of firmness as the Dusk Luxe along with the built ...

  27. 12 Best Comfortable Men's Travel Clothes

    The 17 Best Travel Clothes for Men of 2024. Nordstrom Just Added 13,000 Deals to Its Presidents Day Sale — Save Up to 64% on Travel Essentials. From Cozy Sweaters to Versatile Shoes, This Is the ...

  28. The 12 Best Travel Pants for Women of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

    We got our hands on 40 pairs of travel pants from notable clothing brands like Vuori, Lululemon, Athleta, and more to uncover the best styles for every type of trip. From leggings to trousers, we ...