8 Best Travel Umbrellas for Making the Most of a Rainy Vacation

Don't let rain and wind ruin your travels.

best travel umbrellas

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To find the best travel umbrellas that stand up to wind and rain, experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab reviewed hundreds of data points from a previous umbrella test and considered models from trending brands.

Our top picks:

Windguard Umbrella

best overall travel umbrella

Samsonite windguard umbrella.

Compact Travel Umbrella with Case

best value travel umbrella

Gaoyaing compact travel umbrella with case.

Mini Manual Umbrella

best compact and lightweight travel umbrella

Totes mini manual umbrella.

Travel Umbrella

best durable travel umbrella

Weatherman travel umbrella.

Garden Party Umbrella

most stylish travel umbrella

Rifle paper co. garden party umbrella.

The Original Portable Travel Umbrella

best travel umbrella on amazon

Repel the original portable travel umbrella.

Small Auto Close Umbrella

best luxury travel umbrella

Tumi small auto close umbrella.

Mini

most popular travel umbrella

We test travel products of all kinds from the best beach umbrellas to the best beach chairs and feature top products and destinations in our Good Housekeeping Family Travel Awards . When testing umbrellas, we pay close attention to ease of use, performance and durability, and even conduct a spray test to stimulate a light rain shower in Lab. While we haven't tested every travel umbrella in this round-up, we scoured shoppers' reviews to better understand how the product held up in daily life.

Read on to learn more about our top-rated travel umbrellas of all styles and prices, as well as advice on what to consider when shopping for a new mini umbrella.

GH Institute's Executive Director of Strategy & Operations, Lexie Sachs , has been using this smaller version of our top-tested umbrella for the past year. "It’s not the smallest umbrella to pack on the go, but it’s compact enough to easily fit into a tote bag or backpack," she says. The umbrella provides enough coverage to keep you dry, and it's sturdy when the wind and rain pick up. Yellow is a classic color for rainwear, but if you want a more neutral black or a bright pink , the umbrella is available in other colors too. The Samsonite umbrella is also top-rated on Amazon. One five-star review says, "We have had very heavy, windy rainstorms in my area over the past few months. This umbrella has held up very well in the rain and winds."

Dimensions: 12" folded | Weight: 0.82 lbs.

This umbrella is a popular choice on Amazon with over 5,500 reviews. It's also under $10, which means you can stay dry while sticking to your travel budget. What's more? The manufacturer claims the umbrella can fit in a pocket or purse! Choose from over two dozen colors to match your umbrella with your favorite raincoat and rain boots . One satisfied shopper writes, "I knew we would be sightseeing and wanted something compact that I could carry around and pop out when needed. This did the trick!" While this umbrella is super compact and affordable, one GH editor who bought the umbrella for a semester abroad found it to be hard to open and noticed it wasn't as wind-resistant as other models.

Dimensions: ‎7.6" x 4.84" x 2.09" | Weight: 6.7 oz.

When we tested the Totes mini umbrella, we found that it provided good coverage and was compact enough to fit into small purses and bags. While we are fans of this lightweight pick, it is a manual umbrella so you can't open and close via a button. Still, our evaluation found it to be a durable pick and we like the easy-to-grip rubber handle. Choose from seven cute patterns, including polka dots and cheetah print. One five-star review writes, "I took this on my trip to Italy and it worked perfectly without taking up much space in my bag. Love it!"

Dimensions: ‎6.2" x 1.9" x 1.7" | Weight: 8 oz.

Although this is one of the more expensive travel umbrellas in our guide, it comes packed with convenient features we love, and can it stand up against gusts of wind. "I’ve used this travel size one a bunch of times and it’s held up really well," says Sachs. We appreciate the auto open/close and comfortable handle plus a wrist strap for easy holding while your hands are full. Despite its small design, the umbrella still provides good coverage. One satisfied shopper writes they took it to Wellington, New Zealand and the Scottish highlands, fairly wet climates, and reported that "it took both total downpours and heavy drizzles with ease."

Dimensions: 13" x 2.5" x 2.5" | Weight: 0.85 lbs

At the end of the day, an umbrella is also an accessory. If you want to make a fashion statement — and not lose track of yours in a crowded umbrella stand — opt for an umbrella with a unique pattern. The five available floral patterns plus a cute option with drawings of houses and trees bring classic teardrop and polka dot patterns to a whole new level. A wooden handle adds to the luxe look and the auto open/close mechanism makes for easy use. We haven't tested this model yet, but one five-star review writes: "This umbrella is just gorgeous. The colors are vivid and bright." It isn't the most expensive umbrella on our list, but it is definitely above average in cost.

Dimensions: Not listed | Weight: Not listed

This Amazon's Choice umbrella has an impressive 72,650 online reviews with an overall 4.5-star rating. One satisfied customer writes, "This umbrella is the best I’ve owned so far. It’s huge and the water slides right off it. You just shake the umbrella and it’s no longer wet." Available in nine colors and packs of one, two, three or four, this Repel umbrella is a popular choice among shoppers — and it's under $25! The brand claims that you can fit it in your pocket or small purse. While we appreciate the size and price point, Lab analysts found it to be less flip-resistant than other models we've tested, with one noting that it inverted during their first time using it.

Dimensions: 11.5" folded | Weight: 15 oz.

While this is the most expensive travel umbrella included in our list, the splurge can be worth it if you travel often for work and need a high-quality product that'll look chic in your work backpack . It opens and closes with the push of a button, and the subtle red accents and reflective trim set it apart. We also like the rubberized carrying strap for a better grip, and it won't absorb water. The luxury umbrella would make a practical gift for the frequent traveler in your life.

Dimensions: 11.25" x 2.75" x 2.5" | Weight: 0.74 lbs

Davek is a popular brand among umbrella shoppers on Reddit , and the Mini is its smallest model that can fit in a handbag, clutch or pocket. It's available in 10 solid colors and has nice design features like a stylish handle and color-coordinated carry loop. While we appreciate the lightweight design you can store in your bag, we wish that it was more affordable. The frame appears less sturdy than other pricey models and a manual open/close may not be as easy to use compared to an automatic umbrella. That all said, the sleek and minimalistic umbrella fits in the palm of your hand and is nice and sleek.

Dimensions: 7" folded | Weight: 8 oz.

What to consider when buying a travel umbrella

line break

✔️ Size: A travel umbrella will have a shorter canopy diameter than a full-size umbrella. While you lose some coverage, a smaller model means it takes up less space in your suitcase, purse or work bag. If you have a specific bag you plan to store it in, pay attention to the folded dimensions listed by the manufacturer.

✔️ Weight: Similar to size, travel umbrellas tend to be lighter weight than large umbrellas. This again helps with packing light, but it can mean that the umbrella feels less sturdy and may not hold up as well against rough winds.

✔️ Material: Umbrellas are made of synthetic fabrics (e.g., nylon or polyester) that have waterproof coatings so rain slides off easily.

✔️ Vents: These are small openings in the umbrella's canopy that help wind flow through to decrease the likelihood of your umbrella flips inside out. Note that vents are typically more common in full-size umbrellas.

✔️ Features: There are a few additional features to look out for when choosing the right umbrella for you. When it comes to the opening mechanism, the majority of our top-rated picks have an automatic open/close design so you can simply push a button. A few styles have a manual design that requires you to open and close the umbrella yourself. Another minor feature we like is an included case so you can keep your umbrella covered while traveling.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Elizabeth Berry is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she works alongside experts to ensure our product guides reflect accurate information and pricing. She has covered a variety of travel accessory categories including the best travel pillows and the best travel journals . To write this article, Elizabeth collaborated with Executive Director of Strategy & Operations at the GH Institute Lexie Sachs , who has more than 15 years of experience in the textiles industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University.

Headshot of Elizabeth Berry

Elizabeth Berry (she/her) is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. Prior to this role, she was an Editorial Assistant for Woman’s Day where she covered everything from gift guides to recipes. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B.A. in English and Italian Studies from Connecticut College.

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The 10 Best Travel Umbrellas of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Trust us: getting stuck in a downpour will not have you singing in the rain.

best windproof travel umbrella

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

Today’s forecast calls for never getting caught in the rain. Whether you’re exploring bustling city streets, trekking through scenic landscapes, or simply commuting to work, having the right travel umbrella can make all the difference in staying dry and comfortable. From lightweight and compact options ideal for keeping in a bag at all times to larger umbrellas that can cover both you and your travel partner, we've rounded up the best umbrellas to suit every traveler's needs. 

Our Travel + Leisure team tested 18 travel umbrellas to assess ease of use, protection, durability, portability, and value. We evaluated and compared each option based on overall construction, packability, performance in wet weather and windy conditions, coverage, drying time, and sturdiness. (Read more about our comprehensive testing process below). We will continue testing our picks for six more months to ensure each option’s reliability and durability, and we will update this article if anything should change. Scroll down below to find your next travel umbrella guaranteed to make sure you never get caught in the rain.

Best Overallf

Weatherman travel umbrella.

We were impressed by this umbrella’s performance and sturdiness.

The price tag is worth it — but not if you’re prone to losing umbrellas.

There’s nothing quite as humbling as an umbrella that flips inside out at the slight whisper of wind, leaving you awkwardly trying to flip it back as you stand in the rain, but this Weatherman umbrella proved its worth during testing. Our team member took this product out during an intense storm in San Francisco akin to a hurricane complete with “purple winds,” and this umbrella stepped up to the challenge like a true hero. It made it through strong winds and rough handling like a champ without popping inside out. Our tester reported back, “It felt like the wind was going to pick me off the ground and the umbrella survived that!”

It also dried quickly and showed no signs of wear. The grip was comfortable, and the umbrella provided ample protection from the rain. Weighing under a pound and just shy of a foot long when unopened, it’s the perfect size to throw into a bag or backpack without feeling like it’s even there. The color options are impressive with 11 styles to choose from, ranging from classic black to fluorescent pink. When it comes to weathering storms with style and reliability, this umbrella takes the cake, leaving flimsy alternatives in the dust. It’s a worthwhile investment, but if you’re notorious for misplacing umbrellas, then you may want to think twice — or at least be extra careful.

The Details: 11.8 inches (closed) | 38-inch diameter (open) | 14 ounces | Fiberglass frame | Auto-open

Travel + Leisure / Elena Garcia

Best Compact

Davek mini umbrella.

This is the smallest, most lightweight option on our list.

This umbrella is not suitable for more than one person.

Compact and lightweight, the Davek Mini Umbrella is the perfect choice to bring anywhere with you as an “emergency” umbrella, slipping effortlessly into coat pockets or fanny packs without weighing you down. We were impressed that this option is only seven inches long when not in use (for reference, that’s as tall as an iPhone 13 Pro Max). Despite its smaller size, its robust mechanics, sturdiness, quality, and forecasted longevity make it a worthy investment at $60.  Plus, with a range of 10 vibrant colors to choose from, it adds a touch of fun to rainy days. This umbrella is perfect for solo strolls but not ideal for sharing with a friend — unless you're comfortable with a little cozy closeness.

The Details: 7 inches (closed) | 34-inch diameter (open) | 8 ounces | Fiberglass frame | Manual

Travel + Leisure / Maddy Baker

Best for Two People

Shedrain jumbo compact umbrella.

This umbrella provides more than ample coverage for two people.

We wish the handle was longer, although that’s not a deal breaker.

Bigger isn’t always better, but in this case, it might very well be. Despite its jumbo size, this umbrella is easy to handle and comfortably fits two individuals. With a spacious canopy and sturdy construction, it's a reliable shield against the elements, even boasting windproof capabilities up to 75 mph. It is on the longer side at 15 inches when closed, but it’s still compact enough to fit in a small carry-on suitcase . We love that it comes with a rubber wristlet so you can easily throw it on your wrist or hook it onto the outside of your bag when not in use. Bonus points: it only takes this umbrella about 10 minutes to fully air dry. 

The Details: 15 inches (closed) | 54-inch diameter (open) | 1.35 pounds | Steel frame | Auto-open

Travel + Leisure / Alicia Dolieslager

Best Quick-Dry

Totes titan umbrella.

Overall, we recommend this umbrella for its portability, durability, and ease of use, in addition to standing out as a top choice for water repellency and fast drying.

We would suggest improving the closing mechanics for a smoother operation.

Say goodbye to leaving your soaking wet umbrella out to dry overnight. The standout feature of this umbrella is how quick it dries after use, only needing minutes to fully dry. Despite facing moderate rain and strong winds of 25-28 mph, this umbrella held its ground admirably. Its one-handed, button-operated opening proved to be smooth, though closing required a bit more force. With a generous 43-inch canopy, it provided ample coverage for one person. The sturdy frame and solid mechanics withstood the wind during testing, offering a secure grip with its textured handle. Compact and lightweight at just 11 inches when folded, it's easily portable for on-the-go use. 

The Details: 11 inches (closed) | 43-inch diameter (open) | Aluminum frame | Auto-open

Travel + Leisure / Gemma Scott

Most Affordable

Sy compact travel umbrella.

For how compact it is, we were impressed at how wide the canopy was when open, providing great coverage from getting wet.

Minor improvements could include enlarging the closure loop for easier fastening.

If you’re searching for affordability, durability, and style, then look no further. As the most budget-friendly option on this list, this umbrella impressed with its user-friendly design and effectiveness in repelling water. Its easy one-button opening and closing mechanism, though requiring a bit of muscle to fully close, was easy to operate. The comfortable handle added to its appeal, enhancing grip and comfort. Portable and lightweight, it easily fits into various bags without adding bulk. There are multiple colors and prints to choose from, providing an option for every taste. 

The Details: 10.8 inches (closed) | 37.5-inch diameter (open) | 12.2 ounces | Aluminum frame | Auto-open

Travel + Leisure / Cara Milhaven

Best Inverted Design

Siepasa inverted reverse upside down umbrella.

This umbrella is lightweight, sturdy, and reliable when it’s windy.

Given the inverted design, it is too large to fit into an average backpack, tote, or carry-on suitcase.

There are a whopping 44 design options to choose from with this stylish umbrella, featuring a solid color, print, or pattern on the inside of the canopy. We thought it was too large to carry in most day-to-day bags, but it would make a great option to keep in a car. In fact, its inverted design makes it especially easy to close when entering a car, while the button-operated opening mechanism provides smooth and hassle-free operation.

It does also offer hands-free carrying options, such as an oval handle for convenient wrist or bag strap attachment. Some users may find the smooth plastic handle difficult to grip for extended periods. However, the umbrella's ability to stand on its own was a standout feature, adding convenience when setting it down. Despite its lightweight and slim profile, it offered ample coverage for one or even two people, with sturdy construction that held up well against gusts of wind during testing. For what you pay, you get a lightweight, incredibly sturdy umbrella that is easy to use and reliable in the wind.

The Details: 31 inches (closed) | 49-inch diameter (open) | Fiberglass frame | Auto-open

Travel + Leisure / Elise Wang

Most Stylish

Gustbuster automatic umbrella.

You can add a custom metal engraving on The Metro’s hardwood handle for a stylish detail.

This umbrella is better suited to fit in a backpack or tote than a smaller purse or pocket.

Have you ever considered adding a personal touch to your umbrella? Well, now you can with the option to engrave on this Gustbuster option. While it is considered a splurge, the ability to customize your umbrella adds a unique flair to an everyday item and also makes a great gift option. We love this umbrella for its ease of use and impressive water repellency. With a simple button operation and secure Velcro closure, it offers convenience and security, although its slightly larger size may make it bulkier to carry compared to smaller travel-size umbrellas. Despite its larger dimensions, it provides ample coverage for one person and possibly two, thanks to its durable construction and sturdy materials.

The Details: 16 inches (closed) | 43-inch diameter (open) | 1.1 pounds | Alloy steel frame | Auto-open

Travel + Leisure / Sophie Mendel

Best Prints

Shedrain compact umbrella.

Lightweight and compact, it fits easily into various bags, making it a versatile choice.

This umbrella is best for one person.

Pick up this ShedRain umbrella if you want to brighten up a sad, rainy day. This travel umbrella comes in a variety of punchy prints, from colorful florals to bold patterns. In terms of performance, the umbrella excelled in repelling rainwater, offering sufficient coverage for one adult and possibly two, although they would need to be close together. While not tested in extremely windy conditions, it still proved sturdy and durable, drying off quickly after we used it, with no signs of wear. Lightweight and compact, it fits easily into various bags, making it versatile for different situations. Priced at under $20, we’d say it’s an affordable option to add to your inventory of travel accessories.

The Details: 12 inches (closed) | 42-inch diameter (open) | 13.6 ounces | Fiberglass frame | Auto-open

Travel + Leisure / Anna Mejorada

EEZ-Y Compact Travel Umbrella

This umbrella offers excellent value for its quality and design, outperforming some more expensive brands.

While the umbrella's compact size is convenient for portability, it does not provide sufficient coverage for multiple people during heavy rainfall.

Four words: ballin’ on a budget. With its simple yet functional build and impressive performance compared to pricier alternatives, this travel umbrella earned our praise and recommendation as a budget-friendly, reliable choice for rainy days. Its automatic push-button opening mechanism, ergonomic handle, and compact size made it easy and comfortable to use during testing. Despite its small size when closed, it provides surprisingly ample coverage when open, suitable for one person. The umbrella's quality surpasses typical travel-size umbrellas, with sturdy construction and wind-resistant design. We found that it effectively repelled water and dried quickly after use, maintaining its functionality and appearance after we used it during light rainstorms. Highly portable and lightweight, it fits easily into various bags without taking up much space.

The Details: 11 inches (closed) | 42-inch diameter (open) | 14.4 ounces | Fiberglass frame | Auto-open

Travel + Leisure / Henry Yung

Best for Sun Protection

Sport-brella versa-brella.

This umbrella’s best feature is its versatility, making it a highly adaptable option for providing shade in various outdoor settings.

It's a clamp-on model, so it's not intended to be used as a handheld umbrella.

Did somebody say beach day? This umbrella is best to take on the go to the beach, pool, park, or anywhere you think you’ll need some extra shade. This umbrella has a 1.5-inch clamp that will hold onto anything, making it versatile for any outdoor situation. While primarily designed for sun protection, it proved durable and provided satisfactory rain coverage for one person, although the lopsided design (one half of the umbrella is longer than the other) required adjustments in windy conditions. The material is durable, but we found that the frame can be flimsy depending on what it's attached to.

The Details: 36 inches (closed) | 42-inch diameter (open) | 1.8 pounds | Aluminum frame | Auto-open

Travel + Leisure / Kimberly Souza

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Other Travel Umbrellas We Liked

Three additional travel umbrellas we tested couldn’t quite earn a spot on our list due to minor issues but still had notable features that may meet the needs of some travelers.

Blunt Metro Umbrella : It’s clear that this umbrella’s structure provides durability, but despite its quality build, we found it to be too large for daily commuting and travel. However, this could be an excellent option to keep at home.

Samsonite Windguard Auto Umbrella : The umbrella's durability and quality materials make it feel sturdy and capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions, providing reliable protection. However, it requires significant force to close, which could be challenging for individuals with limited hand or arm strength. It also only comes in one color option: black.

EuroSchirm Swing Liteflex Ultra-light Weight Trekking Umbrella : This umbrella has a lightweight design and spacious canopy that accommodates two people comfortably, but the high price point and elongated size of the collapsed umbrella limits its portability and affordability compared to other travel umbrellas on the market.

Our T+L team tested 18 travel umbrellas in everyday scenarios to assess ease of use, protection, durability, portability, and value. We followed a comprehensive examination to evaluate each option, including overall construction, packability, performance in wet weather and windy conditions, coverage, drying time, and sturdiness. We used the umbrellas in a variety of practical scenarios, including rainy and windy days, and tested them while commuting to and from work to determine functionality, versatility, and durability. 

We took notes on how easy it was to open and close the umbrellas and their portability in different sized bags. Special attention was paid to the durability and quality of the umbrellas’ materials, including the fabric, wire structure, handle, and pole, to assess long-term resilience. In wet weather conditions, the umbrellas’ performance was evaluated in terms of its coverage, sturdiness, and comfort. Assessments include whether the umbrella adequately protects from rain, its size when fully open, the comfort of the handle, and stability in windy conditions. If exposed to rain, we also took notes on the time it took for the umbrella to dry completely and any signs of wear and tear. Some options did not make this list due to low-quality materials that blew inside out too easily and didn’t offer adequate coverage in the rain.

Our long-term plan includes testing these umbrellas for an additional six months to monitor each umbrella’s performance and durability in different travel scenarios and weather conditions. As we continue to test the umbrellas in various real-world settings, we will take notes on portability, practicality, and durability, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of each travel umbrella’s reliability. We will update these results if our findings should change and as we test new umbrellas.

Tips for Buying Travel Umbrellas

Think about how compact you need it to be.

Before purchasing the travel umbrella that is best for you, take a moment and think about your intended use. Determine whether you need the umbrella for occasional travel or everyday use, as this will influence factors like durability and portability. Assess whether the dimensions — especially the length of it when not in use — and weight of the umbrella suit your preferred method of carrying it, whether in a pocket, purse, backpack, or by its strap/handle.

We recommend opting for umbrellas that are specifically designed for travel since they are often more compact and lightweight compared to regular umbrellas. Additionally, pay attention to the dimensions of the umbrella when it’s fully open. Some travel umbrellas are designed for one person, while others are larger and suitable for two. Choose the size that best fits your needs, whether you prefer individual coverage or sharing with a travel companion.

Prioritize durable materials

When you're on the hunt for a travel umbrella, don't forget about durability. Look out for ones that have durable materials to ensure longevity and reliable performance, including fiberglass, aluminum, or sturdy steel for the frame and ribs. (Pro tip: all of our recommendations on this list are made from one of these three materials.) A strong canopy fabric, preferably with water-repellent coatings, adds to the umbrella's durability and weather resistance.

And, don’t overlook the quality of the handle and grip, as this will make or break your rainy day travels. Choose options with handles made from comfortable, non-slip materials like rubber or foam, ensuring a secure hold even in wet conditions. Ergonomic designs further enhance comfort during prolonged use.

Look for useful features

When purchasing a travel umbrella, look for useful features that enhance convenience and functionality. Consider umbrellas with a carrying strap that allows you to loop it around your wrist while walking, keeping your hands free for other tasks. A rubberized handle provides a secure grip, especially in rainy conditions, reducing the risk of slippage.

Opt for umbrellas with alternate designs such as inverted umbrellas or those made from Teflon-coated materials. Inverted umbrellas fold inward, trapping water inside and preventing drips when closed, while Teflon-coated fabrics repel water and facilitate quicker drying, ideal for on-the-go use.

Additionally, consider other features like automatic open and close mechanisms for effortless operation, windproof designs with reinforced frames and vents to withstand strong winds, and UV protection for added sun safety during outdoor activities.

The ideal diameter for a travel umbrella depends on personal preference and intended use, but a common diameter range for travel umbrellas is between 36 to 42 inches when fully opened. This size provides a balance between compactness for portability and sufficient coverage to protect against rain. 

If you plan on using the umbrella for two people, a diameter closer to 48 inches or more would provide sufficient coverage for both individuals. Ultimately, the best diameter for a travel umbrella is one that suits your specific needs and preferences while offering adequate protection from the elements.

An umbrella is considered windproof when it's designed and constructed to withstand strong wind gusts without flipping inside out or breaking. Several key features contribute to making an umbrella windproof, including a sturdy frame and a flexible and durable canopy material that can withstand wind pressure without tearing or collapsing. Even automatic open and close mechanisms ensure quick deployment and retraction, enabling the umbrella to be easily deployed even in sudden gusts of wind.

Yes, you can bring an umbrella on a plane. According to the TSA , umbrellas are allowed for both carry-on and checked baggage, as long as you adhere to size and weight restrictions. In this case, we recommend packing a portable, compact umbrella to avoid any potential hold ups during a security screening.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

An expert on shopping trends and a frequent traveler, Maddie Michalik has been professionally reviewing products since 2014. For this story, she combed through T+L’s detailed testing insights for various travel umbrellas, reading through testing feedback for each umbrella, then referenced product descriptions and additional research to create a comprehensive roundup of the best travel umbrellas today.

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best windproof travel umbrella

Tested and Reviewed: 10 Travel Umbrellas Worth a Spot in Your Suitcase

By Claire Volkman

Tested and Reviewed 10 Travel Umbrellas Worth a Spot in Your Suitcase

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.

As a seasoned traveler, I can tell you one thing that I absolutely never forget to pack : a travel umbrella. No matter where I’m going, except perhaps the Wadi Rum or the Sahara Desert, there’s bound to be some sort of inclement weather. Rain, sleet, thunderstorms; few destinations are without them. Having an umbrella or two on hand allows me and my travel companions to keep our plans intact (and sometimes even see the sights with fewer crowds on rainy days).

Finding the perfect umbrella can be as daunting as selecting a suitcase , though. With about a million options to choose from and all of them claiming to be the best, it’s no wonder so many travelers default to the cheapest option on Amazon or whatever happens to be at the nearest drugstore when that sudden rainfall begins. However, not all umbrellas are created equal, as anyone who has found themselves with a completely inverted one during a torrential downpour will tell you. 

To help you find the best travel umbrella for your needs, I put a dozen or so models to the test (in the windy Midwest , no less), keeping size, durability, and affordability in mind. Below, I've rounded up the options that are worth a spot on your packing list.

  • Best overall travel umbrella: Weatherman The Travel Umbrella
  • Most durable: Blunt Metro umbrella
  • Most compact: Davek The Davek Mini
  • Most wind resistant: Davek The Davek Elite umbrella
  • Best lightweight: Business & Pleasure Co. The Rain Umbrella
  • Most stylish: Rifle Paper Co. umbrella
  • Most affordable: Repel windproof travel umbrella
  • Best sustainable: Totes Recycled PET Umbrella
  • Best for cities: Amy's Umbrellas automatic umbrella
  • Best splurge: Sarah Flint x Pasotti umbrella

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

Best overall travel umbrella

Image may contain: Lamp, Garden Umbrella, Patio Umbrella, Umbrella, and Canopy

Why we love it: Sturdy, wind-resistant, lightweight, and compact, the Weatherman travel umbrella is the best on the market. It's surprisingly lightweight, and can easily fit in a carry-on or tote bag ; plus, it features an automatic open and close feature, a reinforced fiberglass base, and a water-resistant, Teflon-coated fabric. With the ability to shield winds up to 45 MPH, this travel umbrella is tough enough to withstand even the heaviest of rainfall. It comes with a lifetime warranty, too.

Worth noting: There aren’t many cons to this umbrella—it was my favorite of the bunch.

Dimensions: Open diameter: 38"; Closed length: 12" Weight: 0.88 lbs. Carrying sleeve included: Yes

Most durable umbrella

Image may contain: Umbrella, and Canopy

Why we love it: This heavy-duty umbrella stands up to even the strongest rainstorms, and offers supreme coverage thanks to its patented wind-tip rounded edges. It’s built with a 360-degree spinning canopy which prevents it from breaking when dropped or knocked over. It’s extremely wind-resistant and has been tested  by the brand to withstand the winds and rains of a category one hurricane (not that they recommend you put it to use in those conditions). Its rip-resistant pongee fabric is quick to dry, so you can take it into a restaurant or museum without needing a plastic cover. It comes in over 24 colors, and new ones are offered each season.

Worth noting: This umbrella only features six ribs, which means it's smaller than Blunt’s other umbrellas.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 39"; Closed length: 15" Weight: 0.85 lbs. Carrying sleeve included: No

Most compact umbrella

best windproof travel umbrella

Why we love it: When they say mini, they mean mini. The Davek Mini is so small and compact that it fits in the palm of your hand. Measuring less than seven inches when closed, you can easily stash this umbrella in your crossbody , backpack, or even pocket. Plus, it weighs less than a pound, making it almost unnoticeable when not in use. It’s made from reinforced fiberglass and comes in 10 bright colors, so you can coordinate your umbrella with the rest of your outfit.

Worth noting: Given its size, the canopy of this umbrella doesn’t provide overwhelming coverage and it’s not built for extreme storms. I found it functions best in light showers.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 38"; Closed length: 7" Weight: Less than one pound Carrying sleeve included: Yes

Best umbrella for windy destinations

Image may contain: Umbrella, Canopy, and Tent

Why we love it: There’s a reason this umbrella has a near-perfect rating on Amazon—it actually holds up. It may be a splurge at $149, but it is well worth the price tag when you see how effective it is. Surprisingly compact, the canopy extends 50 inches, giving you broad protection against heavy rains, while still being small enough when closed to fit in a carry-on, backpack, or tote. The 210-thread-count fabric makes it luxurious to touch and invincible against rain. The best feature is the wind-tension frame system, which can withstand heavy winds and prevent inversion. I tested this against a very blustery 55 MPH wind day in Chicago, and there was barely any flapping or movement from the tough canopy.

Worth noting : It comes with a lifetime warranty and replacement guarantee.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 50"; Closed length: 35" Weight: 1 lb. 9 oz. Carrying sleeve included: No

Best lightweight umbrella

Image may contain: Lamp, Garden Umbrella, Patio Umbrella, Umbrella, and Canopy

Why we love it: Despite its stick shape, this umbrella is incredibly lightweight, weighing just under 2.5 pounds. It can fit into most suitcases, is UV protective, and has an impressive 41-inch canopy span. It is also slick to look at and carry, with a wood handle and metal clasp. The umbrella comes in 12 lovely patterns and colors, including the ’70s-inspired aqua and orange Cinque Terre and the sunny yellow interior printed Paisley Bay.

Worth noting: The design is long and narrow, making it only packable in a checked bag or stowed in the trunk of your car for a weekend trip. Because of the lightweight build, the umbrella itself is quite fragile.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 41"; Closed length: 37" Weight: 2.5 lbs. Carrying sleeve included: Yes

Best affordable umbrella

Image may contain: Umbrella, and Canopy

Why we love it: You can’t go wrong with this durable, lightweight, and compact travel umbrella from Repel. With over 36,000 4.5-star reviews, this is a crowd favorite among travelers, worker bees, families, and everyone in between. We tested the durability during a heavy summer rainstorm in Chicago, and it stood up surprisingly well thanks to its nine rib canopy, heavy-duty Teflon-coated fabric, and non-slip rubber grip. Plus, the automatic open and close feature makes it super easy to slip in and out of storefronts and restaurants without getting soaked or stuck. While testing, it stood up to Chicago’s infamous winds, with no bending, flipping, or flapping during big gusts. Bonus: It comes in 10 colors, so everyone in the family can choose their own unique hue.

Worth noting: I didn’t find any problems with the umbrella, though some reviewers have noted that it becomes harder to re-open after longer use and is heavier than comparable brands (it clocks in at 12 ounces).

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 42"; Closed length: 11.5" Weight: 0.93 lbs. Carrying sleeve included: No

Most stylish umbrella

Image may contain: Lamp, Garden Umbrella, Patio Umbrella, Umbrella, and Canopy

Why we love it: If you’re someone who buys a bottle of wine based on the label, these umbrellas are for you. Known for bold, whimsical, delicate patterns and floral designs, Rifle Paper Company’s umbrellas are their own cheery works of art. The umbrellas come in six beautiful patterns, including the colorful Camont, inspired by an 18th-century farmhouse in France, and city-printed Bon Voyage umbrella pictured above. Each one features a sleek wooden handle and an automatic open/close feature.

Worth noting: While this basic umbrella provides decent coverage in light rain, it is not the one to buy if you're planning to be walking through downpours or heavy winds.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 43"; Closed length: 11" Weight: Approximately 1 lb. Carrying sleeve included: Yes

Best sustainable umbrella

Image may contain: Umbrella, and Canopy

Why we love it: Shopping sustainably is top of mind, and that extends to travel umbrellas. Tote’s umbrella is made from 100 percent recycled PET plastics, with roughly 7.5 recycled water bottles used per umbrella. The handle and strap are also made from renewable resources like bamboo and hemp, and the production process has been adjusted to use less water. The umbrella features Tote’s patented NeverWet invisible coating, too, allowing rain to drip off the umbrella quickly, leaving you with a drier umbrella once indoors.

Worth noting: Its compact design makes it easy to travel with, however, it doesn’t provide much coverage beyond your person.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 43"; Closed length: 11.2" Carrying sleeve included: No

Best for city trips

Image may contain: Clothing, Apparel, Lifejacket, Vest, Shirt, Text, and Label

Why we love it: With a sleek and stylish small wooden or plastic handle, this lightweight umbrella features a wind-defying eight rib canopy that’s UPF 50+ certified. Small enough to walk down the busy streets of Chicago during a shower without the awkward “bump and sideswipe,” it fits easily into smaller bags. It features an automatic open and close button and comes in more than a dozen bright, bold patterns and colors, so that you’ll stand out in a sea of black parasols. It also comes with a five year warranty.

Worth noting: It’s small enough to fit in your hand, which means the canopy doesn’t offer ideal protection in heavy rainstorms.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 38.1"; Closed length: 21.6" Weight: 0.76 lbs. Carrying sleeve included: Yes

Best splurge umbrella

Image may contain: Lamp, Umbrella, and Canopy

Why we love it: If you’re looking for an umbrella that will stop people in their tracks, this is it. The exterior features a luxurious Italian leather handle, gold-tone button clasp, and sleek navy canopy. However, the real surprise is when you open it to find a beautiful hand-painted blue and white floral pattern on the interior. I brought this umbrella on a recent trip to Charleston and a handful of people stopped me on a rainy street to ask where I got it. Not only is it gorgeous, but it is also functional. The double-lined canopy protects against moderate rain storms, and it’s sturdy enough to withstand relatively high tropical winds.

Worth noting: This umbrella is not the most durable or compact on the list—you'll want to bring it on road trips rather than short flights—but it is a terrific showpiece.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 42" Weight: Approximately 0.5 lbs. Carrying sleeve included: No

Shop for more rainy weather gear:

  • Rain Boots for Women That Won’t Take Up Your Whole Suitcase
  • The Best Lightweight Rain Jackets for Travelers
  • These Waterproof Phone Pouches Will Actually Keep Your Device Dry

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Home » Gear » The Best Travel Umbrella To Keep You Dry in 2024

The Best Travel Umbrella To Keep You Dry in 2024

When you’re on the road, the only weather guarantee you can count on is the fact that nobody can predict what’s coming. Forecasts are subject to change, and things can go from sunny to sour in a heartbeat.

For high-spirited travellers, a bit of rain is nothing a good hot choccy can’t fix, but for some of the gear we take with us everywhere we go, a poorly-timed shower can erase hard drives and permanently destroy expensive equipment.

Luckily, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad planning. Travellers ready for anything won’t leave the house without a good Travel Umbrella to better protect their bags, gear, and phone from all sorts of weather.

Even tropical paradises change quickly in the rainy season, and before you know it, the clouds start rolling in. We’ve all felt the feeling of horror as the first few drops land around you and knowing you won’t make it home in time!! This is where a good quality umbrella comes in!!

Carry peace of mind with you wherever you go with one of the best travel umbrellas on the market. These slimline protection fit in any gear bag or campervan and can quickly step in to save the day.

tbbteam-umbrella-porto-rain

In A Hurry? Check out these travel umbrellas.

How to choose the perfect travel umbrella, faq about the best travel umbrella.

  • #1 – Best Overall:  Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella
  • #2 – Most Portable:  HERO Travel Umbrella
  • #3 – Best Windproof Umbrella: Goothdurs Windproof Travel Umbrella
  • #4 – Most Convenient: LANBRELLA Inverted Umbrella
  • #5 – Most Stylish:  Kate Spade Raindrop Travel Umbrella
  • #6 – Best Lightweight:  Umenice Automatic Travel Umbrella
  • #7 – Best Casing:  Bodyguard travel Umbrella
  • #8 – Most Variety:  Lewis N. Clark Travel Umbrella
  • #9 – Best Quick Dry:  EEZ-Y Travel Umbrella
  • #10 – Most Affordable:  Amazon Basics Automatic Travel Umbrella

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

  • > Lightweight
  • > Fully reversible designs

HERO Travel Umbrella

HERO Travel Umbrella

  • > Comprehensive and robust ribs
  • > Teflon coverage

best windproof travel umbrella

Goothdurs Windproof Travel Umbrella

  • > Colorful design scheme
  • > Pongee material

Glamore Inverted Umbrella

LANBRELLA Inverted Umbrella

  • > Inverted design
  • > Handle slips

Kate Spade Raindrop Travel Umbrella

Kate Spade Raindrop Travel Umbrella

  • > Convenient wrist strap
  • > Automatic open capabilities

Umenice Automatic Travel Umbrella

Umenice Automatic Travel Umbrella

  • > Made out of steel and fiberglass materials

BodyGuard Travel Umbrella

BodyGuard Travel Umbrella

  • > Ten ribs to provide more wind resistance
  • > Included leather case

Lewis N Clark Travel Umbrella

Lewis N. Clark Travel Umbrella

  • > Variety of fun colors
  • > Lightweight rain protection

EEZ Y Travel Umbrella

EEZ-Y Travel Umbrella

  • > Vented double canopy
  • > affordable and variety of protection features

AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella

AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella

  • > Button-operated open and close features

best windproof travel umbrella

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#1 – Best Overall: Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella is our pick for best overall compact travel umbrella.

  • 11.5 inches long
  • 36.5 inches wide

The Repel windproof travel umbrella sets the bar high. This umbrella is lightweight, strong, and even offers fully reversible designs that can withstand windy weather. The repel brand has earned acclaim across the world for its durability and quality design, and this travel umbrella is its flagship model. 

Let’s be honest, using an umbrella in blustery weather is a nightmare, but this windproof umbrella with its double canopy can repel strong winds without blowing inside out! When you’re looking for a compact travel umbrella you often have to compromise but here, no way!

Thanks to their lifetime replacement guarantee, this affordable umbrella should be the last one you ever have to buy. In addition, the Repel windproof travel umbrella package comes with a travel case so your rain protection can easily fit into the most miniature carry-on bags. 

Taking up less space than a raincoat and providing enough coverage for you and your bags, this top-of-the-line lightweight travel umbrella is a safe choice and it’ll stand up to way more than just light rain.

#2 – Most Portable: HERO Travel Umbrella

HERO Travel Umbrella

Meet the most portable umbrella: HERO Travel Umbrella

  • 13.74 inches long
  • 40 inches Wide

Gunning for the crown is this upstart travel umbrella, a new option that has turned heads as quickly as kept them dry. 

We can be heroes with the right equipment in our pocket, and the convenient hardshell case allows your lightweight travel umbrella to be protected while compacting down to fit into even the smallest pack, even a travel purse .

Once unravelled, the travel umbrella promises best-in-class rain coverage thanks to comprehensive and robust ribs and Teflon coverage. Even though it’s one of the most compact umbrellas out there, it will still withstand some strong winds and is a great option if you’re looking for a windproof umbrella.

With the same lifetime guarantee as the Repel windproof travel umbrella, the only reason the HERO travel umbrella isn’t higher on the list is the slightly larger price point. However, travellers looking to invest in an extra splash of coverage can rely on this option to help stay dry. It might just be the only umbrella you’ll have to buy!

#3 – Best Wind Protection: Goothdurs Windproof Travel Umbrella

best windproof travel umbrella

Our pick for best wind protection is Goothdurs Windproof Travel Umbrella

  • 12.4 inches long
  • 40 inches long

With a simple yet colourful design scheme and top-notch reinforcements in the right places, this windproof travel umbrella is protection made interesting. The umbrella uses a mix of alloy steel and carbon fibre to strengthen its ribs while remaining one of the most lightweight options on the market. 

We gave this Goothdurs Umbrella incredibly high rain-resistant ratings thanks to the Pongee material used in the outer layer, also giving the umbrella its signature look. The fabric naturally repels even the strongest showers. With a double canopy, you’re not going to be caught out any time with this compact travel umbrella.

Wrap it all up in the included carrying case and take this compact umbrella wherever the storm finds you. If you’re looking for the best windproof umbrella then you can’t go wrong with this number!

#4 – Most Convenient: LANBRELLA Inverted Umbrella

Glamore Inverted Umbrella

LANBRELLA Inverted Umbrella is one of the most convenient umbrella

  • 42 inches wide
  • 32 inches long

This umbrella thinks a bit differently. The handle slips right over your wrist which allows you easy access to your phone or an ice cream cone while the umbrella is in operation. 

When it’s time for storage, you won’t find anything more convenient than LANBRELLAs inside-out design. No one wants a wet umbrella in their backpack!

Flip this umbrella over, and it will completely seal off the damp side of the product from the rest of your possessions until you get home. This umbrella can’t entirely fold in half, but the inverted design still makes it a compact umbrella.  

The cherry on top is the luminous band on the outside edges of the otherwise black umbrella that allows you to be spotted quickly crossing dark streets at night. Packed full of new features, there’s something for everyone in this option, making it one of the best umbrellas on the market.  

#5 – Most Stylish: Kate Spade Raindrop Travel Umbrella

Kate Spade Raindrop Travel Umbrella

Meet the most stylish umbrella: Kate Spade Raindrop Travel Umbrella

  • 40 inches wide
  • 12.75 inches long

Sometimes it’s worth splurging to look good. Pop-out in a rainstorm with the high-quality coverage provided by this less adventurous travel umbrella. It comes with a convenient wrist strap and automatic open capabilities. 

This umbrella can’t fold in half and won’t break any space-saving records, but it doesn’t weigh much more than some of the lightest travel options on the market, and it will provide a splash of much-needed colour on a cloudy day. 

best windproof travel umbrella

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#6 – Best Lightweight: Umenice Automatic Travel Umbrella

Umenice Automatic Travel Umbrella

Umenice Automatic Travel Umbrella is our pick for best lightweight umbrella

  • 39 inches wide

This lightweight umbrella still expands for enough coverage to protect two people and is favoured by travellers who take every ounce seriously. Tucked inside its travel case, you can slide this travel umbrella into a purse or jean pocket and carry rain protection everywhere you go. It might just be the best most compact travel umbrella on the market for those packing light.

While it lacks Teflon or other high-performance features to make it a completely windproof umbrella, it’s still made out of steel and fibreglass materials that won’t crumble at the first gust. 

Even the most lightweight backpackers can find the space necessary to bring along this compact travel umbrella. If you’re specifically looking for portable umbrellas then this brolly is gonna get the job done.

#7 – Best Casing: BodyGuard Travel Umbrella

BodyGuard Travel Umbrella

Our pick for best casing umbrella is BodyGuard Travel Umbrella

  • 13.3 inches long
  • 37 inches wide

Each rib on your travel umbrella will help to protect you from windy conditions better, so it’s never a bad idea to bring along a few extra. Unlike most travel umbrellas which feature eight ribs, this bodyguard spreads its rain coverage across ten ribs to provide more wind resistance. 

The extra ribs better protect the Teflon technology that is spread across the canopy, allowing water to wick off quickly and helping the umbrella dry faster than the competition. Once it’s dried up, it fits nicely inside the included leather case for a fashionable and protected look. 

While slightly more expensive than some industry-leading options, this travel umbrella packs plenty of safety features to justify an extra few bucks. You’re really getting a quality umbrella here for the money.

#8 – Most Variety: Lewis N. Clark Travel Umbrella

Lewis N Clark Travel Umbrella

Lewis N. Clark Travel Umbrella is our pick for most variety umbrella

  • 11 inches long
  • 38 inches wide

Lewis N. Clark surely wished they had the technologies included in this travel umbrella when they first crossed the country, as the rain coverage in this travel tool will make any trip better. The umbrella folds up smaller than some of the best travel umbrellas on the market, and when it’s time to use it, the wide diameter keeps everything dry. 

All of this in an affordable package makes the umbrella a no-brainer, and the company’s one-year guarantee will make sure you get your money’s worth. Is it the best compact umbrella on the market? Quite possibly!

You can choose between a variety of fun colours or stick to black. No matter what colour you pick, you’ll have lightweight rain protection that can survive winds up to 30 mph.  

#9 – Best Quick Dry: EEZ-Y Travel Umbrella

EEZ Y Travel Umbrella

EEZ-Y Travel Umbrella is one of the best quick dry umbrella

Another option that isn’t trying to do too much, this easy travel umbrella won’t save you from a tropical storm, but it can hold its own in most rain showers. The umbrella has venting technology across the entire double canopy, which allows the umbrella to dry faster than the competition. 

This feature also allows wind to blow through without carrying you away. The vented double canopy still folds up to an incredibly compact size, and a reinforced steel frame should last a lifetime. 

It’s not as wide as the best umbrellas on this list, but its affordability and variety of protection features still make this quality umbrella a great addition to any travel arsenal.  

#10 – Most Affordable: AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella

AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella

Our pick for most affordable umbrella is AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella

  • 11.2 inches long

If you’re not expecting much out of your travel umbrella, you won’t need more than the basics. Amazon has provided enough lightweight features in a compact body to provide a quality travel umbrella as long as you’re not expecting much wind. 

The umbrella includes button-operated open and close features and still provides full-sized protection despite rolling up into an 11-inch package. Unfortunately, while slim and protective, you won’t find any durable materials on this product, with a simple steel alloy frame. 

It might not be the best umbrella out there, but if you get caught in a drizzle from time to time, having this travel umbrella in your bag will prevent a bad day from getting worse. 

best windproof travel umbrella

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If you stick around long enough, there’s bound to be some rain. The perfect travel umbrella is small enough that you don’t notice it in your bag for months but is ready to open up and protect you and your gear in a flash. 

When it’s time to open up your umbrella, you won’t want to spend your walk home fighting with the wind either. The best umbrella stands up to not only the rain but won’t flip inside out at the slightest breeze! 

Strong wind gusts are your umbrella’s worst nightmare, and if you don’t have the right travel umbrella, your protection could be gone with the wind! Think, Mary Poppins gone wrong!

Umbrella companies have taken measures to provide compact but resilient travel companions that offer varying levels of the following characteristics. Great umbrellas balance protection, hardiness, and compactness with keeping the costs down to qualify as a contending product. 

Let’s be honest, even if you’ve got the best travel bag out there, you still don’t want to risk it getting soaked wet if it’s got your expensive laptop and travel camera inside!

What’s the point of an umbrella if it is not good at protecting you? Protection should be the deciding factor when you are searching for the perfect travel umbrella. 

Every travel umbrella may hold its own in a minor rain shower, but few can handle gale-force winds.

If you’re expecting some foul weather, look for stainless steel frames and ribs that are malleable but resilient.  Blending these frames with Teflon-coated exterior layers or flexible fibreglass allows certain high-tech travel umbrellas to tolerate windy conditions better. Some umbrellas also have a double canopy to allow wind to move through without catching in the canopy.

Travel umbrellas that promise to be windproof can stay in shape through winds up to 60 mph. If you’re experiencing winds any more robust than that, I highly suggest you get inside immediately!

The best brands have battle-tested their brolly’s in various laboratory conditions to prove their worth on a windy day, and others have sacrificed a few high-performance pieces to be extraordinarily lightweight or compact.  

Compactness

Every travel umbrella seeks to find the perfect balance between compact size and complete rain protection. You’ll have to decide for yourself how much space in your luggage you’re willing to sacrifice for a larger canopy. 

A quality travel umbrella should fold up by telescoping to take up less precious cargo space, squeezing down to packages about a foot long. All of the umbrellas on our list can compact themselves to fit easily in any carry-on luggage. 

These compact umbrellas are made lightweight to fit into more bags using light metals and sacrificing some canopy reach compared to an everyday parasol. Look for travel umbrellas to only weigh around one pound, while some of the best-in-class options are closer to half a pound. 

Juxtapose the weight with your coverage requirements. Umbrella enthusiasts agree that a 23 inches canopy is the minimum length necessary to protect one person. However, you’ll want your canopy to tack on a few inches if you expect it to guard your bags as well as your body. 

Finding the perfect blend to these stats is the recipe for a great travel companion. If your Bumbershoot is too big, it might be tempting to leave it out of your day pack, which could be a fatal mistake. 

On the other hand, an umbrella that is too small to protect you and your belongings entirely is useless no matter how little space it takes up.  

Whether it’s facing the wind, rain, sleet, or grumpy baggage handlers, you’ll need a travel umbrella that can take a beating. Luckily, some of the most lightweight metals have also proven themselves capable of absorbing a few punches. 

Fibreglass steel and Teflon will provide the hardiest protection, followed closely by lightweight aluminium alloy. Ideally, your umbrella will have a combination of a few of these elements that allow it to stay light and strong. 

If you don’t want to buy a new umbrella every year, it’s worth investing a few extra dollars into a high-quality product that combines these metals. Cheap substitutes can talk a big game but can often snap after a few weeks in the bottom of your luggage.  

Some of the best travel umbrellas on the market take protection a step further by providing a tough yet packable case that makes it easier to safely and compactly store your umbrella. 

Looking for a good waterproof jacket to combine with your new umbrella? Check out our guide to the best options on the market.

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

Do I really need a travel umbrella?

Every real traveller knows that an umbrella can be a lifesaver on rainy trips. Even if it’s just for the short trip from the tent to the toilets… And since travel umbrellas are so compact and small, there’s really no reason that speaks against packing one.

What’s the difference between a travel umbrella and a normal umbrella?

A travel umbrella can be folded and packed into such a compact bundle that it’s easily fitting in even the smallest pack. They’re also lighter than normal umbrellas.

What are the most compact travel umbrellas?

Looking for compact umbrellas? Check out the lightest and most packable travel umbrellas: – Umenice Automatic Travel Umbrella – HERO Travel Umbrella – Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

What is the sturdiest travel umbrella?

Travel umbrellas might be super light, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t be sturdy. The Goothdurs Windproof Travel Umbrella easily proves this.

best windproof travel umbrella

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Final Thoughts

For many exciting and exotic locations, unexpected downpours are a part of daily life. Slip a travel umbrella into your luggage, and don’t let it out of your sight.

No umbrella will protect you from an October in Costa Rica , and there is no one umbrella perfect for everyone. Only you can decide the best travel umbrella for your unique usage, but there is no risk involved in bringing along some extra rain protection. 

We’ve laid out the best travel umbrellas that are capable of protecting you from tropical rainstorms, downpours, and too much sun. Lightweight and multifunctional, these umbrellas can fit in any bag. 

Every traveller has a story or two about being in the wrong place at the wrong time and ending up drenched. Let us know about the times you wish you had a high-quality travel umbrella to save your day in the comments! 

Looking for a great gift for the traveller in your life? Y o u can’t go wrong with a good quality umbrella!

best windproof travel umbrella

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

Aiden Freeborn

Aiden Freeborn

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  • Outdoor gear

The Best Umbrellas for Wind and Rain

Two closed stick umbrellas and four regular umbrellas of different colors leaning against a pair of black rain boots.

Trudging through rain is rarely enjoyable, but a great umbrella will reduce the misery, keep you (mostly) dry, and easily stow away when it’s not needed.

Our favorite is the compact Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella . Its nine-rib construction held up against gale-force winds, and it’s as sturdy as umbrellas that sell for more than twice the price.

Everything we recommend

best windproof travel umbrella

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

The best travel umbrella for most people.

This solidly built, easy-to-find umbrella holds up in high winds. It also comes in several colors.

Buying Options

price may vary by color or style

best windproof travel umbrella

AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella with Wind Vent

A travel umbrella with great wind resistance.

This nicely priced umbrella blew away most competition in wind-resistance tests. It comes in a range of colors, but they tend to vary in price, and this model has a history of stock issues.

best windproof travel umbrella

Balios Folding Double Canopy Umbrella

A travel umbrella that’s slightly more fancy, slightly less practical.

This umbrella performs similarly to our top pick but has a more luxurious feel and build. However, it lacks a wrist strap.

Budget pick

best windproof travel umbrella

Lewis N. Clark Umbrella

A cheap, light, and bright travel umbrella.

This isn’t the toughest umbrella, but it comes in many colors, and it’s portable and inexpensive. So it’s great for kids or forgetful folks.

best windproof travel umbrella

Totes Auto Open Wooden Stick Umbrella

A low-priced stick-style umbrella.

With this model, you get classic style and impressive durability at a very reasonable weight—and price.

Upgrade pick

best windproof travel umbrella

Davek Elite

A premium stick-style umbrella.

If you’re willing to pay a lot more for a timeless umbrella with elevated style and construction, this is the one to get.

How we picked

The top job of any worthy umbrella is to keep the user dry and protected from the elements.

Though we picked umbrellas of varying lengths, we made sure they were all light and easily portable.

An umbrella should be able to withstand strong gusts, invert without breaking, and then resume its original structure.

Umbrellas are not heirloom items. Since they’re frequently lost or loaned, we looked for options that weren’t overly expensive.

And to suit a range of preferences, we have four other picks, including a budget travel umbrella (perfect for forgetful types) and a high-end, stick-style umbrella that provides more coverage (and is constructed from premium materials).

The Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella folds up to a compact size (11½ inches long), so it fits in most bags and glove boxes. At the touch of a button, it forcefully expands to reveal an ample canopy (37 inches in diameter), which protects your torso and head from precipitation in all but the windiest conditions. And its textured handle is easy for hands of all sizes to grip. We also appreciate that this umbrella comes in several colors (see other options here ), so you can more readily find yours in a crowded umbrella bucket. Finally, Repel backs this reasonably priced umbrella with a lifetime refund or replacement guarantee —but only if you purchase directly from Repel and register the item under its warranty.

The AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella with Wind Vent costs less than our top pick—if you get it in black (the other shades cost more.) And due to its vented design and sturdy build, it shrugged off even the toughest gusts during testing. Since 2017, when it first came to our attention, this umbrella has gone in and out of stock several times, making it hard to predict when it would be available. But as of winter 2023, the stock issues seem to have been resolved. Provided that remains the case, this is a solid umbrella.

The Balios Folding Double Canopy Umbrella looks and feels premium—with a wooden handle and solid build quality—yet it costs less than our top pick, the Repel umbrella. But its wooden handle is more slippery than the Repel’s handle, and since the Balios umbrella also lacks a wrist strap, you need to be more vigilant in keeping a grip on it. This umbrella held up well to strong winds, and its 37-inch-wide canopy easily bounced back after it was forced to invert during testing. The Balios umbrella deploys quickly.

The Lewis N. Clark Umbrella was a previous top pick in this guide, and it’s still a great value. This lightweight travel model frequently goes on sale for about half the price of our other picks, so it’s a good choice for kids or those who tend to lose umbrellas. It isn’t as solidly built as our other picks, but at 10 ounces, it’s about a quarter-pound lighter than the Repel and AmazonBasics models. And its 38-inch canopy offers better coverage and more wind resistance compared with most other umbrellas in the sub-$20 range. We also like that it comes in nine colors.

If you want more coverage than a compact automatic umbrella can provide, stick umbrellas, though typically taller and heavier, have a wider canopy, so they protect more than just your upper torso. Among the nine stick options we tested, the Totes Auto Open Wooden Stick Umbrella was by far the most affordable. Yet it held up against the strongest winds and didn’t feel at all top-heavy, which is a common issue with this type of umbrella (often misidentified as a golf umbrella). This one also looks nicer than you might expect for the price. But if you want something made from more premium materials, and you’re willing to spend a lot more, consider our other stick-umbrella pick, the Davek Elite.

As we’ve established, you don’t have to shell out a lot of money to get a great umbrella. But if you do opt to splurge on a timeless stick, the Davek Elite is worth it. It has a stitched leather handle, a high-quality fiberglass frame, and a 44-inch microfiber canopy. (Plus, there’s a lifetime guarantee to back it all up.) The Elite is available in three colors (black, navy blue, and copper). Beyond its fancy materials, this umbrella can really perform. It withstands wind exceptionally well. And, thanks to its flexible ribs, it doesn’t become a kite when subjected to strong gusts; instead, it turns inside out and then recovers easily. It’s worth noting, however, that the Elite’s cane handle measures 5 inches across, which could be a lot for a smaller hand to manage.

The research

Why you should trust us, how we tested, our pick: repel windproof travel umbrella, runner-up: amazonbasics automatic travel umbrella with wind vent, also great: balios folding double canopy umbrella, budget pick: lewis n. clark umbrella, also great: an inexpensive stick-style umbrella, upgrade pick: a premium stick-style umbrella, other good umbrellas, what about inverted umbrellas, care and maintenance, the competition, frequently asked questions.

Over the past several years, we’ve taken umbrellas on errands, run them under the shower, attacked them with a leaf blower, and tortured them to the point of failure in gusty winds and blizzard-like conditions. In between the tests, we’ve lived with these umbrellas and loaned samples to family members and friends. This has generated impromptu side-by-side comparisons and ultimately revealed how these umbrellas hold up with long-term use. After all of our testing, we’re confident we’ve found some of the best umbrellas among the hundreds available.

When we initially conducted our research, we also visited Rain or Shine in New York City. At the time, it was one of the few umbrella specialty retailers left in the US (it has since closed). Peggy Levee, Rain or Shine’s owner, was a protégé of Gilbert Center , a storied umbrella sales and repair expert, who was also a source for this guide. Levee formerly operated out of a Midtown Manhattan office stocked with high-end models from around the world. Together with Levee, we examined a range of brands and discussed performance, value, and owner satisfaction.

A group shot of colorful, closed umbrellas that we tested.

As always, we started by reassessing our own past research and testing, and we looked at other online reviews. Before visiting the Rain or Shine umbrella store in New York City, we consulted the work of the good folks at OutdoorGearLab , who have done their own extensive umbrella trials. A post on The Art of Manliness website provided historical context and some well-informed general opinions.

Our 2015 interview with umbrella sales and repair guru Gilbert Center revealed a sad truth: Most (though not all) umbrella making is outsourced to generalist manufacturers, often at the expense of quality. Our dive into online reviews and retail offerings supported that fact; it revealed that there’s an alarming number of cheap, physically identical umbrellas available under multiple, rarely well-known brands. Our digging also revealed there’s a startling similarity and positivity in supposed owner reviews (we’re on record as being skeptics of this phenomenon ). Armed with this background information, we were able to develop some key criteria to help us narrow the field of qualified contestants.

  • It turns out that a 37- to 39-inch-diameter canopy is just about perfect for keeping someone’s head and torso dry—without adding too much bulk to the total package. That’s why this is the range for most manufacturers’ standard or “full-size” portable umbrellas. Regardless of an umbrella’s size, no model will keep you dry from head to toe, especially if there’s a breeze. Blowing rain and puddles inevitably produce wet calves and pant cuffs, dampened thighs, and even soaked waists. It’s better to think of an umbrella as protection for your hairdo and upper torso as you scurry between car and office or subway and home. In 2017 and 2018, we looked into larger options, for those who may value extra coverage stretching to the abdomen. By contrast, mini umbrellas are generally no better than a wide-brimmed hat, so we skipped those models.
  • We focused on umbrellas that were shorter than 12 inches fully folded —with the exception of some stick umbrellas—since most people want something that fits into a car’s glove box or a backpack’s water-bottle pocket. But we don’t recommend ultra-compact models: Though banana-sized umbrellas do exist, their canopies are often too small to be effective. And on ultra-compact full-size umbrellas, the ribs have four joints rather than two, so there are more potential points of failure.
  • We sought a main pick that weighed less than a pound , with preference given to lighter models. After all, you’ll probably be carrying it with you most of the time. But we allowed some wiggle room for the larger stick umbrellas, since you typically tote them more like a cane or walking stick.
  • Materials don’t vary much among brands. What matters: the quality of the design and production, and the specific alloy employed . All umbrellas use a synthetic fabric—usually polyester or nylon—for the canopy. Some boast an additional quick-dry coating of Teflon (though we’ve found this doesn’t make much difference in practice). The ribs and shaft are usually constructed from steel, aluminum, and fiberglass, either alone or in combination. Aluminum construction is sometimes considered a weakness, probably because of the metal’s association with soda cans and cooking foil. (“Stay away from it,” said Rain or Shine’s Peggy Levee. “What’s better is steel and fiberglass.”) But this could be an unfair generalization. After all, if you’ve taken a commercial flight, you’ve entrusted your life to critical components made of aluminum, such as wing ribs and roots; the process is not functionally different from that used to make soda cans, but it’s on an incomprehensibly larger ( and epoch-making ) scale.
  • Although canopy and rib materials aren’t of primary importance, leather, pleather, and rubberized plastic handles offer a much better grip than hard plastic ones—especially when they’re molded into a shape that follows the hand’s natural contours. Stick umbrellas often (though not always) come with a cane handle made of wood or laminate, leather, or rubberized plastic.

A close-up of the handles of six of the umbrellas we tested for this guide.

  • Choosing an automatic or manual opening mechanism is simply a matter of preference. Our research into owner experiences and our own internal polls bias us toward automatics—umbrellas that fully open and partially close with the push of a button on the handle. (So far, no automatic umbrella provides the finishing touch of cinching the canopy with the strap, and it’s hard to imagine one ever will.) If you’re carrying groceries, a purse, a briefcase, or a child in one hand, it’s helpful to be able to snap your umbrella open or closed with the other. That’s why our top pick remains an automatic. We should note, however, that virtually all stick umbrellas have a manual close, and many lightweight umbrellas are fully manual in order to save weight.
  • Then there’s the question of economy . We discovered it’s possible to get an under-$25 model that’s solid enough to bend in the wind and reliably snap back into shape—so you won’t be heartbroken if you leave it at a restaurant. You can find ones for even less, but we wouldn’t recommend them, nor would Levee: “Yes, you can get a $5 umbrella in the street and a $10 umbrella at the drugstore. But how many are you buying?” With these, it’s less a matter of if than of when it will finally break (often on the same day you bought it). If you want to spend much more than $30 on an umbrella, you can get something special. But whether an umbrella is worth that investment depends more on your style proclivities or if you tend to lose umbrellas. “The average price for a nice stick umbrella is around $80 to $120,” Levee said. To be sure, a custom-carved, maple-handled Italian stick umbrella with a twill canopy, such as the Davek Savile we tested, is long on style. However, it won’t perform much better than our budget-friendly stick pick . (Though the steeper investment might motivate you to check the umbrella stand before you walk out the door of a restaurant.)
  • Warranties also matter. Many companies that produce budget umbrellas offer lifetime coverage or other attractive claims. But they make the return shipping and documentation so costly and bureaucratic that it’s not worth the hassle. We favor well-known companies with simple, reliable return-and-replace programs, even if that means a slight increase in up-front cost.

Multiple stick and expanding umbrellas arranged on grass.

For our 2018 update, we conducted research on dozens of new automatic, manual, ultralight, reversible, and stick umbrellas. In the end, we decided to test seven models (from Ace Teah, Bodyguard, Crackajack, Elementex, LifeTek, and Tadge Goods) against our picks from Repel, AmazonBasics, and Lewis N. Clark.

In 2019, we built on what we’d learned from previous updates, testing an additional seven umbrellas from Herschel, Balios, Davek, and Totes. We also checked out inverted umbrellas and included detailed notes on what we thought of that design.

To state the obvious: An umbrella is supposed to keep you dry. So in 2015, we tested several umbrellas for their ability to keep a T-shirt–clad mannequin dry beneath the spray of a dual shower head. To nobody’s surprise, we learned that wider umbrellas did a better job of reliably protecting the mannequin’s head, shoulders, and upper torso.

But once canopies get larger than the 37- to 39-inch range (the typical size of the automatic umbrellas we tested), you start running into weight issues without gaining significantly better coverage. Having established that, in subsequent years we focused our testing on other aspects of umbrella performance and build quality.

A person holding a green lewis and clark umbella in front of the New York skyline.

Instead, we concentrated on testing the umbrellas in real-world scenarios and, perhaps most important, seeing how they held up to stiff winds. Ideally, an umbrella should be lightweight and tough, flexible and resilient.

A good umbrella will withstand a stiff breeze, but it should also invert—flip inside out—when a sudden gust overwhelms its strength limits. In effect, it should bend rather than break. What matters is an umbrella’s ability to easily and repeatedly flip back to proper form. In 2017, on a rainy February day, Wirecutter’s Sarah J. Robbins took 16 models with her as she ran errands with her infant son in a BabyBjörn carrier. A few days later, during a sunny but blustery day, she did a second lap, this time pushing her baby in a stroller. She brought her observations to senior staff writer Tim Heffernan, who had performed the 2016 tests. Together, they reached subjective conclusions based on factors such as weight, balance, and handle comfort.

For the stick umbrellas, which were considerably taller and heavier, we considered how easy they were to use for Sarah, who is 5-foot-2, and for Tim and Daniel Varghese, who are both about 6 feet tall. After that, the most promising candidates weathered a series of stress tests.

We began our tests in the small park outside our office in Long Island City, New York. The goal was to force the umbrellas to invert by holding them in a position they’d rarely, if ever, be subjected to in real-world use: with the handle facing parallel to the ground and the canopy directly downwind, catching the wind like a sail. Once we’d made the canopy invert, we attempted to reverse it.

After weeding out models that were too hard to flip back or were damaged in the process, we tested the survivors during various New York City squalls. Staff writer James Austin used these umbrellas during his daily commute, taking into account the amount of protection they provided and how easy they were to carry on the buses, trains, and streets of New York City.

An opened Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella in the color grey.

The Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella is our top pick because in quality and durability, it’s on a par with models we saw for more than twice the price. In fact, the Repel umbrella felt just as solid in every phase of our testing as $100-plus models we tested. You can find lighter options (the Repel weighs just over 14 ounces), but along with its heft comes an ability to withstand big gusts. Billed as a “travel umbrella,” it folds up to just 11½ inches long, so it’s easy to store and carry. Still, when this umbrella is fully extended, its 37-inch canopy offers plenty of coverage.

A person holding a red Repel Windproof Travel umbrella to see the bottom.

One of the Repel’s selling points is its nine-rib construction. While most standard umbrellas have eight or fewer ribs, this model has an extra rib, which provides greater reinforcement across the canopy, leading to better durability. We believe this design contributed to our test sample’s valiant fight against 40 mph gusts (in which many competitors flipped). When the Repel did invert, its fiberglass ribs arched easily in the direction they were pushed. And when we pressed the automatic close button, the ribs snapped back into place.

The Repel’s sturdy build goes beyond the extra rib. Its automatic open-and-close mechanism is quite satisfying: Pressing the button forcefully snaps the umbrella to attention. The comfortable-to-hold, rubberized handle is relatively long (about 2½ inches). So Sarah could fit almost her whole hand around it, yet it didn’t feel too small in Tim’s or Daniel’s larger hands.

The polyester, Teflon-coated canopy of the Repel showed no sign of dents or frayed stitching—even after the stress tests. Should anything go wrong, however, the umbrella is also covered by Repel’s lifetime replacement guarantee —with no return required.

A closed Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella in the color grey.

This umbrella comes in several colors (as well as in black). So you shouldn’t have trouble finding yours among the many identical models in the coffee-shop stand. (For additional colors, beyond the options available on the main product page, see this listing on Amazon.) One caveat: We recommend sidestepping the double-canopy color options (like the blue-sky design); these have an extra layer of fabric, making the umbrella heavier and harder to tie together.

After we used the Repel umbrella regularly for over six months, it continued to impress us. Even in the face of significant wind gusts, it never flipped inside out.

In April and May of 2018, the Repel umbrella experienced a pervasive counterfeit issue, but a representative from Upper Echelon Products (Repel’s parent company) assured us that this problem has been resolved. We’ve found no recent evidence to suggest this is an ongoing issue, but it’s still a good idea to be mindful of third-party sellers of this umbrella on Amazon. (The best way to avoid a counterfeit is to be sure the seller is Upper Echelon Products and/or that your order is being fulfilled directly by Amazon.)

After using the Repel umbrella on and off for over a year in rough city weather, senior staff writer Tim Heffernan said this model has held up well. It was stuffed into backpacks and handbags, and it was carried through trains crowded with damp, disgruntled New Yorkers. After all that, it still worked perfectly. Another of our testers, Wirecutter’s Christina Colizza, noted that the Repel expanded with more energy than she’d expected. And she said this umbrella was a bit harder to close than others she tested (she said a friend lost a fake nail while trying to secure it).

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Although we appreciate the Repel umbrella’s sturdy build, the snappy opening and tight tolerances do require a strong spring to drive them. As a result, retracting the shaft back down to its fully folded form takes a bit more force than you might anticipate. But once you’re aware that closing the Repel requires extra effort, it’s likely to become more of an afterthought.

An opened AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella in the color yellow.

We love practically everything about the AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella with Wind Vent . This decently priced umbrella is made with high-quality fabric and has sturdy stitching, and it holds a fierce stance against the wind. Also, its slightly curved handle is comfortable and easy to grip.

The only thing keeping the AmazonBasics umbrella out of our top spot is its relative elusiveness: In the past, this umbrella has gone in and out of stock frequently, and when it disappeared, there was no indication of when it would be back. As of our 2023 update to this guide, the umbrella seems to be available in most color options, so we’re hopeful that stock issues have been fully resolved (and will remain that way).

A closeup of the AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella's wind vent.

What impressed us most about the AmazonBasics model during testing was its windy-weather performance. That’s thanks to the wind vent, a gap in the umbrella’s fabric. The umbrella has two overlapping layers of fabric that lie flat and watertight in the rain; when these layers are caught by wind from underneath, they open, releasing air pressure and preventing the umbrella from inverting. Whether in a blizzard or facing gusts near the top floors of a high-rise apartment building, this umbrella refused to quit against the toughest gales. AmazonBasics also makes a ventless umbrella , but during and after the stress tests, we found that it didn’t hold up as well as the vented one.

A closed AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella in yellow.

Fully closed, the AmazonBasics is just 11 inches long; the fabric of its canopy, however, is thicker than that of the Repel, so when it’s bundled, it’s a bit stockier as well. The round handle is comfortable to hold, as is the wrist strap, and the automatic open-and-close function is as responsive as any we encountered.

After a little over half a year of using the AmazonBasics umbrella, travel and outdoors editor Ria Misra reported that her test model broke. Tim (who’d been testing the AmazonBasics as well as the Repel) said the vented canopy came in handy on the windy hill near where he lives—until the umbrella was forgotten somewhere.

An opened Balios Folding Double Canopy Umbrella in a light color blue.

If you want an umbrella that looks and feels a bit more premium than our other picks, but you don’t quite want to upgrade to a heritage piece, the Balios Folding Double Canopy Umbrella is a great option. Its 37-inch vented canopy expands rapidly when deployed, and the auto-close function is quick, with a satisfying click. The wooden handle is a nice addition, and it was comfortable to hold, though it may seem a bit large in smaller hands. The Balios stood up well to wind in our tests, inverting only when held directly parallel to the wind on a particularly blustery day in the city, and it snapped back easily and quickly.

A closeup of the Balios umbrella's wooden handle.

The wooden handle lacks a wrist strap and feels slicker than the rubberized handle of the Repel. This combo left us worried that the umbrella might be snatched into the air by a particularly strong gust. The handle also made this one of the longest collapsible umbrellas we tested, measuring 13.5 inches when collapsed. Also, though the company takes pains to note that the handle is “ ethically sourced, ” we have been unable to confirm what that means, exactly.

An opened, light blue Lewis N. Clark Umbrella.

If both the Repel and the AmazonBasics umbrellas are out of stock, the Lewis N. Clark Umbrella is another good low-cost option (it was a top pick in a previous version of this guide). It comes in eight colors in addition to black, although black tends to be the cheapest.

One of the most easily portable of the bunch, this travel umbrella is the same height as the AmazonBasics umbrella, and it’s just 10 ounces. Despite this model’s low price, the Lewis N. Clark survived our stress tests with very minor damage, and we’ve had no issues with the units we’ve been using for long-term testing. (Wirecutter’s Sasha VanHoven had the Lewis N. Clark for more than a year and reported that it was “beat up but still kicking!”)

The Lewis N. Clark umbrella in light periwinkle.

Still, compared with our other top picks, the Lewis N. Clark has a lightweight polyester canopy that’s more wrinkly and less taut in certain places—telltale signs of looser quality-control standards. And although its metal ribs are listed as being made of steel, we are nearly certain they’re actually aluminum, judging from their light weight, lack of magnetism, and appearance.

For these reasons, we think most people are better off spending a bit more to get one of our other picks. But if you want something for kids, or you constantly lose umbrellas, the Lewis N. Clark is a good option to consider.

An opened Totes Auto Open Wooden Stick Umbrella in blue.

Stick (or cane) umbrellas are taller and often have significantly larger canopies than their more portable cousins. Plus, they can double as musical props . Though they’re fun to use, they can be a pain to hold with one hand, especially if you’re on the smaller side. But at just over 20 ounces, the Totes Auto Open Wooden Stick Umbrella has good weight distribution, and its 42-inch-wide span kept us dry while we were running around town, even in rough weather. This umbrella was easy to use, and that put it ahead of other similarly sturdy but more expensive stick models, such as the GustBuster Classic (which felt considerably more top-heavy).

A closed Totes Auto Open Wooden Stick Umbrella.

Though it offers the same length and canopy size as the other stick umbrellas we tested, the Totes is significantly cheaper. (And OutdoorGearLab also named this umbrella one of its favorites.) Its canopy is made from a lighter (and likely lower-cost) material compared with the other umbrellas we considered, and we wondered whether it would hold up to strong winds.

During our blizzard tests, however, as hard as Sarah tried, she couldn’t get this umbrella to flip inside out. This could, of course, be considered a flaw: Seeing your umbrella bend alleviates the fear that one sudden, harsh gust will break it. Still, given the price of admission, that risk seems to be one worth taking. James had this umbrella for several years (before it eventually went MIA). And he says it continued to hold up well in city storms, despite being used in a few too many Gene Kelly impressions.

An open Davek Elite umbrella in black.

If you’re looking for a classically styled stick umbrella to go with a suit, consider the Davek Elite . It feels sumptuous, with a stitched leather handle, a fiberglass frame, and a 44-inch microfiber canopy, which the company says is “190 thread count.” This umbrella has an equally lofty price tag, and it’s the most expensive of our picks by far. That price is partially justified by Davek’s easy-to-use lifetime guarantee (which includes 50% off a new umbrella if you lose your original ).

A closeup of the Davek Elite's leather stick handle.

The Davek Elite performs exceptionally in the wind: Thanks to its flexible ribs, in our tests it didn’t become a kite in the gusts. Instead, it turned inside out and then easily recovered. This umbrella comes in three colors : black, navy blue, and copper.

It’s worth noting that the Davek Elite’s cane handle measures 5 inches across, which is quite a lot for a smaller hand to manage. There were some mentions in online reviews about the umbrella seeming too big overall. And a few people have complained that the silver tip at the end of their umbrella fell off—an especially unwelcome event, considering the price.

If you want an extremely good (and extremely expensive) travel umbrella: The travel-size Davek Solo is a redesign of a past Davek model that we previously recommended in this guide. The collapsible umbrella was the best we tested, with a comfortable-to-hold handle, a strong canopy, and a surprisingly convenient metal belt clip. It was also the only umbrella that elicited comments from other New Yorkers: One person excitedly told James all about his own Solo, which he’d had for years. But it’s hard to justify spending over $100 on something so small and easy to lose, especially when our main picks are nearly as good and are a fraction of the price.

If you want a solid alternative to our top travel umbrella picks: The LifeTek Traveler 45 FX2 impressed us in our 2018 tests. It withstood being battered by violent gusts without ever inverting, likely because of its vented canopy structure (a design it shares with our runner-up pick, the AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella with Wind Vent ). This was one of the strongest umbrellas we have ever tested. And when we did force it to invert, the canopy snapped back into place without much effort. However, depending on the color, the LifeTek often costs more than our top travel picks, the Repel and AmazonBasics models, and it doesn’t offer enough of an advantage over those to justify making it a pick. That said, because it’s an excellent umbrella with a solid warranty (LifeTek’s two-year “Peace of Mind” replacement guarantee against defects and malfunctions), we feel confident recommending it, especially if you can find it on sale.

A Sharpty inverted umbrella, folded and resting on a wet wooden bench.

Inverted umbrellas are a relatively recent development in “holding something over your head to keep water off” technology. The canopy deploys and collapses in an odd way: unfolding down and out, like a blooming flower, and collapsing up and away from the holder, like a normal umbrella broken by the wind. This is supposed to reduce water dripping onto the floor and make it easier to do things like getting in and out of a car.

We put two inverted umbrellas to the test: the Kazbrella (now discontinued), one of the early examples of this concept, and the Sharpty Inverted , the best-selling inverted stick umbrella on Amazon at the time. Alas, we found the novel design underwhelming.

When we tested the Kazbrella, we noticed extra material on the canopy (there are two layers of fabric, with a flexible structure in between, allowing for the fold). This makes the umbrella more top-heavy than other, similarly sized models, and that can cause extra strain and make the umbrella harder to control in a gust of wind. Also, in order for it to be “drip free,” the umbrella would need to be placed in an umbrella bucket with the canopy up, rather than the handle.

The generic-looking Sharpty Inverted shared the Kazbrella’s problems. It also felt cheap and was difficult to deploy correctly, often requiring a few shakes to get the canopy to fully unfold. And it was a pain to hook its C-shaped handle on a bag strap or a cubical wall (as you can do with most regular stick umbrellas).

With their unique folding style, inverted umbrellas are certainly eye-catching, but in practice they seem to cause more problems than they solve.

If you want your umbrella to keep you dry for a long time, you need to remember to let it dry. Just leave your umbrella open after use—the bathtub is a handy spot. If you don’t, its metal parts—especially an automatic open-and-close function—can corrode. Mildew can also develop in the canopy of a wet umbrella that’s left closed; this not only smells awful but can destroy the fabric over time.

And make sure to let your automatic umbrella do its job, said Peggy Levee, owner of the former New York City umbrella specialty retailer Rain or Shine: If you’re using one with an automatic open-and-close function, do not pull it closed like you would a manual model. “I always point that out to customers,” she said. Over time, that unnecessary tugging could cause the mechanism to break.

A number of colorful umbrellas arranged open on the ground.

Blunt Metro : This is a good travel umbrella if you’re concerned only about the wind. Its shallow, scalloped shape—a direct result of some innovative engineering—shrugged off gusts better than any other umbrella in our test. Unfortunately, we learned that it also does a poor job of keeping you dry when the rain blows sideways.

Bodyguard Inverted Umbrella : This compact model was one of the most popular umbrellas available on Amazon when we first tested it, featuring an impressive 10-rib construction. Though it performed decently in our real-world wind tests, inverting several times without breaking, it was difficult to flip back—a bit too sturdy for its own good. It has since been redesigned with a 12-rib construction; we have not tested the newer model.

Davek Duet : With a 48-inch canopy, this umbrella provides enough shelter for two, yet it’s less than 15 inches long folded and weighs under a pound and a half. It’s wider than most people want or need, but if you’re big or tall, travel in pairs, or just want maximum coverage, it’s worth considering. The eye-watering price is backed by Davek’s unconditional lifetime guarantee .

Davek Mini : If having a really compact umbrella matters to you above all else, this model, which folds down to the size of a banana, is a great choice. When we tested it, the Mini’s tiny, 26-inch canopy could barely keep our head and shoulders dry; the canopy has since been redesigned and expanded to 34 inches, which is likely to be an improvement.

Davek Savile : Hand-assembled in England, this stick umbrella—the granddaddy of Davek’s offerings—is billed as an heirloom piece, and it has a very hefty price tag to match. The handle and shaft are hand-carved from chestnut wood, adding to this umbrella’s weight (30 ounces). It’s impressive, for sure. But for an umbrella of this style, we prefer to save $200 and choose the still-luxe, and more portable, Davek Elite .

EuroSchirm Light Trek : This German travel umbrella is quite good overall, especially given its scant, 9.25-ounce weight. But subpar wind resistance holds it back. The lightweight fiberglass ribs are considerably more flexible than those on other umbrellas, and as a result the canopy collapses easily when blasted head-on and flexes like a leaf in high winds when held upright. This means you’d suffer more inside-out episodes than you would with our picks. Although it didn’t break during testing in a snowstorm, it did look somewhat worse for the wear compared with our picks. But it’s still a decent lightweight choice for less-windy climates.

EuroSchirm Light Trek Automatic : The automatic version has the same issues as the manual version but weighs a lot more.

EuroSchirm Light Trek Automatic Flashlite : This is like the other two EuroSchirm Light Trek models, except it has a small LED flashlight in the handle. That gimmick brings its weight to 13.5 ounces—not a light trekker at all.

GustBuster Metro : This travel umbrella has a well-deserved reputation for durability in the wind: It never came close to inverting during testing. But its strength comes from a complex truss of multiple ribs and springs, making it extremely top-heavy: When the wind catches the canopy, it’s like holding a sledgehammer. That design, plus a hard-plastic handle that’s slick when wet, added up to a losing combination.

GustBuster Classic : Though this stick-style umbrella has a cane handle and a wider canopy than its relative, the GustBuster Metro, their construction is similar. One plus: The contours of the Classic’s cane handle make it easier to manage in the wind. The Classic is a quality tool for a good price, but it didn’t lead the pack in value or function.

Knirps Xtreme Vented Duomatic : This automatic travel umbrella weighs 13 ounces, but its canopy handily opens to an impressive 48 inches—the size of many stick umbrellas. It’s a good choice if you want the coverage but not the hassle of carrying a cane around town. Still, it could be overkill for most people.

Senz Automatic: We had high hopes for this unique umbrella. The main draw is its odd, teardrop shape, which keeps your shoulders and back drier than a typical round canopy. Unfortunately, the long, rear-facing ribs are weak; we damaged one just by cinching the canopy strap.

Totes Signature Clear Bubble Umbrella : The bubble-style umbrella makes sense conceptually, to provide more coverage with a longer canopy that surrounds the user in a sort of traveling dome. But in practice, at least with the Totes Signature Clear Bubble, that extra wall of fabric is just something for the wind to push against, making the umbrella difficult to control, even though it’s light. Also because of its design, the canopy isn’t as wide as on other, similarly sized stick umbrellas, and this limits its protection.

Totes Blue Line Auto Open/Close Umbrella : This umbrella is well reviewed (and we recommend the Totes Auto Open Wooden Stick Umbrella as our favorite lower-priced stick-style umbrella). But the Totes Blue Line compact travel umbrella arrived with a 3-inch rip in one of the canopy seams, and it widened in the wind. Also, one of the ribs tore loose from another section of the canopy during our inversion test. And this umbrella may have stock and availability issues.

Tumi Medium Auto Close Umbrella : This umbrella is average in terms of its size and compactness. And despite its premium price, it didn’t stand out in any particular test.

What’s the best umbrella fabric?

In our testing, there is no singular best fabric for umbrellas. All of the umbrellas we looked at had canopies made of synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon, and some had an additional quick-dry coat, such as Teflon (but those additions don’t help much). The fabrics all do an equally good job of keeping you dry and shedding water quickly.

How do I choose an umbrella?

Look for an umbrella with a canopy that’s 37 to 39 inches across. This size is good for protecting one person from the rain, and the umbrella can still fold down to a compact package. Similarly, we think one that collapses to 12 inches (when closed) and weighs less than a pound hits the sweet spot: It’s easy to carry an umbrella of this size with you everywhere, yet it will still keep you dry. We suggest the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella for its size, comfortable-to-hold handle, and affordable price.

What’s the best umbrella for windy conditions?

All of our umbrella contenders were tested against stiff winds and fared well. But the AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella with Wind Vent excelled, thanks to the vent at the crown: It lets strong winds pass through without snatching the umbrella from your hands.

This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter.

Sara Aranda, The 5 Best Umbrellas , OutdoorGearLab , October 24, 2022

Brett McKay and David Bastistella, The Gentleman’s Guide to Umbrellas , The Art of Manliness , June 12, 2009

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James Austin

James Austin is a staff writer currently covering games and hobbies, but he’s also worked on just about everything Wirecutter covers—from board games to umbrellas—and after being here for a few years he has gained approximate knowledge of many things. In his free time he enjoys taking photos, running D&D, and volunteering for a youth robotics competition.

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Further reading

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This is the gear we’d use during—and after—a rainy-day outing.

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The Marmot PreCip Eco Pants, which come in men’s and women’s sizes and multiple lengths, are the pants that kept us comfortable and dry through wet weather.

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After sleeping in 51 tents, we think the Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3 is the best for two people and Kelty’s Wireless 6 is best for most families.

Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella Review

A small, no-frills travel umbrella

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Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella

TripSavvy / Stephanie Vermillion

Portable size

Auto-open and auto-close button

Multiple color options

Lifetime warranty

Flips in the wind

Flimsy build

Lacks UV protection

The Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella offers decent coverage and has all the makings for a good product, but it’s best suited for lighter, low-wind rainstorms. 

  • Performance
  • Portability
  • Competition
  • Final Verdict

We purchased the Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella so our reviewer could put it to the test. Keep reading for our full product review.

The Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella comes in a tiny size that makes it highly appealing for travelers. You can stick this umbrella in your suitcase or purse and virtually forget about it, given it weighs just one pound and packs up to just 12 inches in length. 

As a traveler, I was particularly intrigued by the performance promises. This tiny umbrella was designed to outlast wind and storms despite its compact size. To find out if this was one of the year’s best travel umbrellas , I took the Rain-Mate out on a test-run during a rainstorm in New York City. Read on to find out whether or not it lived up to my expectations. 

Performance: Struggles with the wind

Based on its 42-inch canopy, I had a feeling this umbrella would keep me dry—and it did. It’s a spacious umbrella with more than enough room for one. Then the wind hit. The NYC waterfront has some mighty gusts of wind, and the Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella simply couldn’t withstand them. After the third gust, the umbrella flipped, leaving me scrambling to flip it back as I dodged puddles and sought shelter.

Unlike many cheap umbrellas that flip once and go kaput, this umbrella has fiberglass ribs that make it easy to flip back.

To test it out in milder weather, I took the umbrella to Central Park on a breezy, sunny day. I used the umbrella to stay cool while reading on the lawn. Yet again, one gust too many sent this umbrella flipping. 

Here’s the good news, though: Unlike many cheap umbrellas that flip once and go kaput, this umbrella has fiberglass ribs that make it easy to flip back. Would I prefer it not to flip at all? Of course. But at least you won’t need an entirely new umbrella whenever a little wind hits.

Design: A large canopy that opens quickly 

When I first used the Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella’s auto-open button, I was blown away by two things. First, I loved how quickly it opened. When I’m traveling, I’m often running in and out of stores, public transit, or restaurants, so the quick auto-open, auto-shut feature controlled by a button on the rubberized handle makes the umbrella highly functional when I need it most. 

Another impressive feature? Despite its tiny size, this umbrella’s canopy reaches 42 inches. While I could have fit someone else under the umbrella with me, I enjoyed keeping it all to myself—because I stayed pretty dry! (That is, until the wind hit.)

The quick auto-open, auto-shut feature controlled by a button on the rubberized handle makes the umbrella highly functional when I need it most.

While the manufacturer site doesn’t specify what material was used for the canopy, it feels like nylon to me. Unfortunately, it does not have UV protection features. While it kept me cool (when it wasn’t flipped out) during my sunny day at Central Park, I would’ve been better off with an umbrella built with UV protection . 

Portability: A compact, easily packable size

This umbrella weighs about one pound and packs down to 12 inches via a three-fold telescopic shaft, making it easy to stash in a travel purse or my go-to travel backpack . Given the umbrella’s size, it’s easy to throw it in a carry-on suitcase and forget about it—until you’re on a trip and need it!  

Despite its tiny size, this umbrella’s canopy reaches 42 inches.

Price: On par with competitors

At around $20, the Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella is priced fairly and is comparable to its closest competitors. It costs more than the cheapest umbrellas, but it works slightly better. Plus, it’s guaranteed for life; no matter what happens, the company will replace it free of charge.

Competition: Can’t beat the competition

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella: When comparing the Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella with the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella , both of which I tested, you’d expect the Rain-Mate to be much cheaper. It’s not nearly as durable, it flips out in the wind (when the Repel umbrella doesn’t), and it lacks Teflon waterproof material. Yes, it has a lifetime guarantee, but so does Repel. And yet, the Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella is around $20, while the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella—the better option, in our opinion—is only about $5 more. Both come in virtually identical sizes with similar colors, so the obvious choice—the one that withstands wind!—is the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella.

Bodyguard Travel Umbrella: I also reviewed the Bodyguard Travel Umbrella, which packs down to about the same size as the Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella (the Bodyguard closes to 11.5 inches long, while the Rain-Mate is 12 inches). When expanded, though, the Bodyguard is far and away the winner. It reaches 46 inches, 4 inches wider than the Rain-Mate umbrella. That means multiple people can fit under the Bodyguard umbrella. And while the Bodyguard umbrella is not as durable as the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella, it’s much more durable than the Rain-Mate umbrella, which feels flimsy when compared to its two main competitors. When it comes to the Rain-Mate versus the Bodyguard, the Bodyguard is the better choice. When it comes to all three umbrellas, the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella takes the cake. 

The Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella is far from perfect. Similarly priced competitors work better when it comes to wind, but this umbrella does its job in the rain—and it comes with a lifetime guarantee. 

  • Product Name Compact Travel Umbrella
  • Product Brand Rain-Mate
  • Price $20.95
  • Weight 1 lbs.
  • Product Dimensions 12 x 2.5 x 2.5 in.
  • Color Black, blue sky, navy blue, pink, rainbow, red, yellow
  • Warranty Lifetime guarantee

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The 10 Best Travel Umbrellas for Every Type of Traveler

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The best travel umbrella for you largely depends on where and when you’ll often use it. But the last thing you want is to have to test your umbrella for the first time while on vacation.

After dramatic technical failures, we’ve tossed one too many umbrellas into public trash cans (popped hinges! Ripped fabric! Sound familiar?). So, we decided it was high time for a more methodical approach to finding an excellent travel umbrella. We’ve narrowed down the field to 10 umbrellas, which we’re confident packing in our bags when we hit the road.

Best Compact Travel Umbrellas

Traveler type: Carry-on only is your travel mantra, but you want something a little sturdier than traditional budget options.

These compact travel umbrellas are made for travelers who want something small and light that also delivers a higher quality than budget options, with automatic open-and-close functionality and more durable construction.

EEZ-Y Compact Travel Umbrella

EEZ-Y Compact Travel Umbrella in green, best travel umbrella

As far as compact umbrellas go, this one delivers solid construction for its price tag. The umbrella folds to 11 inches and weighs just over 14 ounces for easy packing. Its not-your-average-mini-umbrella construction, including a double canopy with nine ribs, adds durability in wind gusts.

Davek Solo Umbrella

Davek Solo Umbrella in black, collapsed and held together with a velcro strap, best travel umbrella

A bit heavier (1 pound 2 ounces) and longer (11.75 inches) than the EEZ-Y model, the Davek Solo makes up for the added weight and space with a wind-resistant frame designed to withstand more than a breeze. It’s a little pricier than your traditional mini umbrella; however, the brand’s Loss Protection Card offers you 50 percent off a new umbrella if you lose yours, and there’s a lifetime guarantee to protect you in case of mechanical problems.

Most Durable Travel Umbrellas

Traveler type: You don’t mind the extra weight if it means your umbrella won’t turn inside out as often.

If you’re the type of traveler who always seems to be wrestling with your umbrella in the slightest breeze, these umbrellas are for you. These travel umbrellas are made to withstand wind thanks to details like venting systems of overlapping fabric layers, additional springs at joints, and more robust materials.

Blunt Metro Travel Umbrella

Blunt Metro Travel Umbrella in blue, best travel umbrella

While it’s a little longer than other travel umbrellas (14 inches), this Blunt model is still light at just over 12 ounces. It has been designed to withstand winds up to 55 miles per hour and has blunt edges, so it won’t puncture holes in anything when you stash it in your luggage (or hurt passersby in crowded cities). Despite its manual close, we also found that this umbrella had the smoothest opening and closing of any umbrella we’ve ever tried.

GustBuster Metro

GustBuster Metro in black

Like the Blunt Metro, the GustBuster Metro is designed to withstand 55-mile-per-hour gusts. Its double canopy waterproof construction also makes it one that can protect you from the heavy rains that often accompany the wind. At 16 inches and 1.1 pounds, it’s one of the bigger options on this list, but if you’re looking for your sturdiest option, this is it.

Best Cheap Travel Umbrellas

Traveler type: You always leave your umbrella behind at restaurants, on trains, in cabs….

While these umbrellas aren’t the toughest, you won’t mind losing them. Fortunately, some of the most inexpensive umbrellas are also the lightest and most packable, meaning you’ll almost always have space for them in your luggage or day bag.

Totes TRX Manual Mini Trekker

Totes TRX Manual Mini Trekker in a multi-color pattern

Coming in at eight ounces and 6.5 inches when folded, this option from Totes is one of the best mini umbrellas—ideal for throwing in your day bag if there’s a chance of rain. It also doubles as a shade source during warmer days with built-in sun guard UPF 50 protection. With nearly a dozen colors and patterns, you can find the one that best matches your travel outfits.

Lewis N. Clark Travel Umbrella

Lewis N. Clark Travel Umbrella in light blue

This 10-ounce, 10.75-inch-long umbrella will likely turn inside out on you when it gets windy, but the good news is that it’s proven to pop back into shape time and time again easily. It’s also easier to close with an auto open/close button.

Best Travel Umbrellas for Heavy Rain

Traveler type: Even a monsoon won’t stop you from exploring on your trip.

If you know you’re going to a particularly rainy destination or must keep your outfit completely dry in a storm, look for an umbrella with a larger canopy. The tradeoff for better coverage is often a longer umbrella and more weight.

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella in black

Coated with Teflon, this umbrella dries faster than umbrellas without a Teflon coating, so you can easily stash it in your bag when the rain (hopefully) stops. The double-vented canopy gives this umbrella extra flex that helps it stand up to powerful gusts. Measuring 11.5 inches long and weighing under a pound, this Repel umbrella is still a relatively small, light option.

Bodyguard Windproof Travel Umbrella

Bodyguard Windproof Travel Umbrella in several colors

Reinforced with ten flexible ribs for higher winds, this umbrella is another Teflon-coated option, ensuring water runs off your umbrella and not onto you. The 46.5-inch canopy is slightly larger than the Repel’s, giving you added protection (or allowing you to squeeze in another travel companion if you feel like sharing). It is, however, an inch longer.

Best Large Umbrellas for Couples

Traveler type: You and your companion don’t mind huddling together to stay out of the rain.

Ultra-packable umbrellas are often designed for one person, meaning if you’re traveling with family, you might want to equip each member with their own. However, vacationers traveling in pairs can get around packing multiples with these umbrellas designed to shelter two.

Prospo 62 Inch Large Travel Umbrella

The Prospo 62 Inch Large Travel Umbrella in black in the forefront, with four smaller color options in the upper right corner

With an oversized canopy (62 inches), this umbrella has plenty of room to fit two but folds up to only 15 inches so it won’t take up space in your bag. 

Kalolary 62 Inch Extra Oversize Large Compact Golf Umbrella

Kalolary 62 Inch Extra Oversize Large Compact Golf Umbrella in black with yellow trim

With a 62-inch diameter, this umbrella has plenty of room for two people. The best part? It closes up to 11.8 inches, putting it on par with more compact travel umbrellas. While it’s a bit heavier at just over a pound, the size of it open outweighs the extra weight.

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The Best Umbrellas to Help You Ride Out the Rain

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Best Overall Weatherman The Travel Umbrella Read more

Red umbrella with small handle open and resting on a hardwood floor in a hallway with white walls

Best Budget Umbrella Prostorm Windproof Vented Travel Umbrella (2024) Read more

Blue umbrella with sharp edges open and resting on a hardwood floor in a hallway with white walls

Best Upgrade Davek Solo Read more

Orange umbrella with sharp edges open and resting on a hardwood floor in a hallway with white walls

Best Luxury Full-Size Umbrella Davek Elite Read more

It always seems to rain when you least expect it. That's when I'd usually hit a corner store here in New York City to grab a cheap $20 umbrella. A few months later, I'd bring out the same umbrella and it would already have small rips on the canopy, or the stretchers would break and make a floppy mess in the wind. Rinse and repeat.

I've wasted a lot of cash on cheap umbrellas, and I'm here to warn you not to make the same mistake. There are plenty of decent, affordable umbrellas, you just need to know which brands to rely on. It's worth spending a little more on a high-quality umbrella that will last a while. I've researched extensively and tested more than 50 umbrellas over nearly four years—these are our favorites at various prices. Now you just have to remember to bring it with you.

Be sure to check our many other guides , including the Best Rain Jackets and our tips on How to Re-Waterproof a Rain Jacket .

Updated March 2024: We've added a new version of the Prostorm umbrella and the Gilley umbrella.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get WIRED for just $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED.com , full Gear coverage, and subscriber-only newsletters. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Best Overall

After testing Weatherman umbrellas for several years, I think it offers the best quality for the money. The Travel Umbrella is my favorite—an umbrella that automatically opens and closes is super helpful when you enter a building while juggling groceries and a cup of coffee. Thanks to its fiberglass ribs and shaft, it's sturdy, and the Teflon fabric hasn't shown any signs of wear (it dries quickly!). I haven't noticed any issues with the open and close mechanism either.

It's one of the most compact umbrellas we've tested (save the Davek Mini below) and weighs less than a pound. That does mean the canopy is small—a smidge under 38 inches in diameter—making this a strictly one-person umbrella. It comes with a great strap, a lifetime warranty for defects, and a little zipper pouch to store a Bluetooth tracker to help you find it if you leave it at a restaurant.

★ Also great: I like Weatherman's The Stick Umbrella ($84) , which is much bigger (44-inch canopy), only opens automatically, and has a vented canopy to allow strong gusts to flow through. It has one of the biggest arced domes to shield you from droplets too. If you're in an area with high winds, consider The Collapsible Umbrella ($74) . It's more compact than The Stick, with a 40-inch canopy, but does the same great job of resisting such conditions.

Best Budget Umbrella

The auto-open and auto-close Prostorm Vented Travel Umbrella is remarkable for the money—it’s leagues better than the cheap models you’ll find in corner stores on rainy days. That might be because it’s made by Davek, the same company that makes high-end umbrellas (see below). The original Prostorm version I tested has held up well over the years, and the 2024 model makes one big improvement—it’s 20 percent lighter at just 398 grams. Also new is a ratcheting system that lets you reset the umbrella to whatever part of the shaft you want—you don't have to bring it fully down immediately. This umbrella has a decently deep dome, meaning it’s not as flat and can block rain when it falls in varying directions. It’s double-vented with a 38-inch canopy that feels spacious for one person, and there is a fiberglass-and-steel frame with nine ribs to support the canopy. After using it for several months as my primary umbrella, it has functioned exceptionally well.

My main gripe is that you have to give the umbrella a small shake to let it fully extend. Even with the ratcheting system, pulling it down will require some effort. Also, the rubber handle (it comes with a strap!) remains small for my large hands. This might not be an issue if your paws aren’t as ginormous as mine.

★ Also great: The Balios Travel Umbrella Double Canopy ($27) is another excellent cheap umbrella that costs a smidge more than the Prostorm. It can automatically open and close with the push of a button—like with most automatics, you'll have to manually pull the runner down the steel shaft to collapse it. At about a foot long, it doesn't take up much room in a backpack, and the wooden handle is a nice touch; its generous size offers a comfortable grip. The vented double-canopy model did a surprisingly great job withstanding New York wind gusts. There's a single-canopy model too , and Balios has more fun designs than Prostorm.

Best Upgrade

The Davek Solo is exquisite. It automatically opens and closes via the push of a button. (It requires some effort to slide the runner down the steel shaft to close it completely.) The 37-inch-diameter canopy is nearly identical to the Weatherman Travel umbrella, the frame is reinforced with fiberglass, and there are nine ribs (the more ribs the better in heavy winds). The handle feels really nice—it has a clip and a top-grain leather strap—but I wish it was a little longer. Davek also has a lifetime warranty for any repairs the umbrella might need, and if you lose it, use the special code that comes in a box to redeem a replacement for up to 50 percent off the regular price (it can only be redeemed once). Downsides? It's heavier and expensive.

Best Luxury Full-Size Umbrella

This is the quintessential umbrella. When closed, it's around 3 feet long—hard to store in a bag. The curved handle is exceptional, made of top-grain leather, and you get a nice button that tastefully opens the umbrella up (it closes manually). You're getting high-end materials through and through. The frame system is made of "wind-tension" fiberglass, the shaft is also fiberglass, and the canopy is among the largest in this guide, with a 44-inch diameter. It's meant for one, but it had no trouble sheltering my partner and me from the elements.

This is a statement umbrella. It's ideal for formal events, though it's great as an everyday carry if you don't mind the fact that you can't keep it in a bag or strap it to your wrist. It's spendy, but it will last (my model functions perfectly after four years). As with the Davek Solo, the company's lifetime warranty covers manufacturing defects, and you can use the included code to redeem a replacement for up to 50 percent off the regular price (only once). If you're spending this much, you may want to grab Davek's Loss Alert Sensor ($35) , which attaches to the canopy via a magnet. It pairs with your phone via Bluetooth, and the app ( Android , iOS ) sends a ping when you walk away from your umbrella. It worked well in my testing, though it's frequently sold out (the company says it'll have a fresh supply in May). Read our Best Bluetooth Trackers guide for other picks.

★ Also great: The ShedRain Vortex V2 Vented Auto Open Stick Umbrella ($48) has the same lifetime guarantee as Davek, along with the same 44-inch diameter (from one end to the other when open). It has treated me well for several months. It's a tiny bit heavier but is made from 100 percent recycled polyester from plastic bottles. It has a fiberglass frame and a vented canopy, and the rubber handle is comfy to grasp. It doesn't have the style or luxe feel of the Davek, but it's much cheaper.

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Hatley Kids Umbrella

Best Kids’ Umbrella

WIRED editor Adrienne So's kids have tested a few umbrellas, including the Weatherman Kids Umbrella and the Original Duckhead , but the Hatley Kids Umbrella is their favorite. In the words of her 6-year-old, the Weatherman is hard to open and close, but the Hatley doesn't have this problem, and it is smaller, has a nicer wooden handle, and features fun prints on the canopy. (You can even buy color-changing models when the canopy gets wet!) Even if the Weatherman feels sturdier in the hand and is slightly bigger, with its 29-inch diameter, the Hatley is their preference. It retains its shape in stiff breezes and has held up over a year of being shoved into backpacks, thrown in and out of lockers and cars, and occasionally abused as a cane or a sword. What more can you ask for?

Green and white umbrella with sharp edges open and resting on a hardwood floor in a hallway with white walls

A Good Midsize Umbrella

Want the benefits of a full-size umbrella but in a smaller package? This umbrella routinely surprises me when I open it. It has a 50-inch canopy! That's actually bigger than our full-size pick above. It is heavier, but it's significantly shorter and can easily be stowed in the water bottle pocket of a backpack. (It just might stick out a bit.) It automatically opens, and the canopy is made from 100 percent recycled polyester, supported by a fiberglass frame. It's big enough for two people without being too cumbersome to stow.

Open palm holding a small red umbrella with a hardwood floor in the background

Best Tiny Umbrella for Travel (or for Kids)

An umbrella takes up valuable real estate in your backpack. Enter the Davek Mini. Its 7-inch size makes it the perfect umbrella to leave in your bag all the time or to bring when you travel. I had no trouble stowing it in my jacket pocket and even managed to pop it in the back pocket of my jeans when walking about. (There's a strap so you can leave it on your wrist as well.) This is not the umbrella to get if you're in an area with high winds and heavy rainstorms—the Mini does a good job of keeping my head, shoulders, and some of my torso dry, but with a 34-inch diameter, it can only do so much.

It opens and closes manually, and the steel shaft and fiberglass-reinforced frame feel sturdy, holding up surprisingly well against gusts of winds. But the best part about buying from Davek is the aforementioned lifetime warranty and loss protection. The Mini has been my go-to when I take my dog out on walks, and I frequently stow it in my luggage on trips.

Clear umbrella with black trim and a curved handle open and resting on a hardwood floor in a hallway with white walls

A Clear Bubble Umbrella

Bubble umbrellas are cute, and see-through umbrellas offer real utility in that none of your vision is blocked when you're using them—that makes this the best of both worlds. Of all the umbrellas ShedRain sent me, I've been using this the most. It automatically opens (you have to close it manually), the 38-inch diameter on the canopy is enough to cover my body and my backpack, and the plastic crook handle is roomy. (I like the look and feel of the acrylic handle more , but it's pricier.)

You get eight fiberglass ribs and a steel shaft, and the canopy is made from polyethylene, which is wrinkly but has held up well against strong winds and battering rainfall. Just make sure you keep it open for a while when you get inside—I've noticed it dries much more slowly than other umbrellas. It's fairly lightweight at a little more than a pound, and just plain cute. Everyone needs a clear bubble umbrella in their arsenal.

Black umbrella with rounded edges open and resting on a hardwood floor in a hallway with white walls

Smartest (and Safest) Design

The Blunt Coupe feels so satisfyingly smooth when you open it manually. The 41-inch diameter is big enough to protect most of my 6'4" frame and backpack, and it fares well in high winds, thanks to its fiberglass ribs and polycarbonate frame. When you slide the runner down the aluminum shaft to close it, there's a locking mechanism so the canopy doesn't open up when it's not secured with the Velcro strap. But perhaps its best feature is the blunt edging at the tips. As I'm tall, my face has been privy to jabs from pointy umbrellas, so I'm glad I don't have to worry about poking someone's eyes out here.

Despite its length, the Coupe weighs just a pound, and I love the grippy rubber handle. However, the built-in strap broke off less than a year after I started using it. Thankfully, Blunt has a two-year warranty and a repair program—email the company about any defects and it will repair your model or send a replacement. I also have slowly watched the Coupe go up in price over the years, unlike other umbrellas on this list.

Black umbrella with straight handle open and resting on a hardwood floor in a hallway with white walls

An Unbreakable Umbrella

When I saw the word unbreakable , I just had to test that claim. I mimicked the test seen in Never-Thought-of-It's ad (minus the bulldog). I balanced the Polish-made Unbreakable Umbrella between two chairs and stepped on it. It did not break! But do you need such a strong umbrella? Probably not, but at least you can be sure it'll last a long time. It doubles perfectly as a walking stick and even comes with a rubber sole you attach to the tip for stability. The 47-inch canopy is enough to cover two people, and it smoothly opens up fully at the push of a button. (It closes manually.)

It weighs a pound and a half, which feels heavy after a while. The button is too sensitive. I've accidentally opened it more times than I can count, but this might be a bonus if you or someone you love has trouble pushing buttons. The ribs are fiberglass, and the rod is made of a proprietary blend of polyester and fiberglass—it gave me no trouble in many a rainstorm. The price is steep, but it makes a great gift.

Image may contain Umbrella and Canopy

Best for Sporting Events

Whether at a wedding, graduation, football game, or another type of outdoor event, a nice, large umbrella is perfect for the family to huddle up under. The Sport from Blunt is a much higher-end option than the Blunt Coupe (see above). It has a fiberglass shaft and frame, and its 58-inch diameter can easily fit two people, maybe three if everyone squeezes in. It's too big and heavy to use as an everyday umbrella, though.

Sliding the runner up the shaft to open it is just as smooth as on the Coupe, and you get the same locking mechanism at the bottom to keep the ribs closed. The edges of the umbrella are blunt (get it?) so you don't poke people in the face, and the rubber handle is the perfect length for my palm. The whole thing is on the heavier side at more than 2 pounds, but it does come with a handy sheath you can use to sling the umbrella over your shoulder, no different from Geralt and his swords in The Witcher .

★ Also great: The ShedRain Vortex Vent Pro ($80) has a 54-inch diameter so it's slightly smaller (though it weighs the same) and its materials aren't as nice—it has an aluminum shaft with a fiberglass frame. However, it's a double canopy, which helped it fare well in high winds, especially when I took it to the beach. It's also about half the price.

Image may contain Lamp Umbrella and Canopy

Honorable Mentions

There are a lot of umbrellas out there, and we're always testing more. Here are a few others we like that didn't quite make our list of top picks.

ShedRain WalkSafe Reflective Stick Umbrella for $60 : This is a simple manual umbrella that opens and closes smoothly, has a circular handle that can hook onto things, and has a 41.5-inch diameter that covers a person (or two) fairly well. The reason to buy it is the reflective fabric—it'll brighten up quickly when a car's headlights land on it, so you can feel safe knowing you're visible to motorists.

Blunt Metro for $89 : The Metro is the more compact and slightly lighter-weight version of the Blunt Coupe up above. It automatically opens (manually closes) and provides nearly the same amount of coverage. The canopy spins in 360 degrees to supposedly prevent damage to the core mechanism. My only issue with it is that when you fold it all down and cinch the canopy with the Velcro strap, it covers most of the handle, so you have to hold the Metro by the wet fabric or the wrist strap.

ShedRain Vortex V1 Umbrella for $25 : This auto-open/close umbrella works well, though it's nothing to write home about. It's pretty compact, with a 38-inch diameter, and it does a solid job against heavy winds, thanks to the vented canopy design. It doesn't look or feel particularly nice, and the handle is a bit too small for my big palms, but at least there's a strap.

ShedRain Stratus Manual Stick Umbrella for $100 : I've had no real problems with this umbrella, but it requires a bit of force to fully open (it's completely manual). You don't need to extend it all the way, just a quarter up the carbon-fiber shaft. I would have expected it to be even lighter than our stick umbrella pick from Davek, but alas, it's a little heavier. You get a 42-inch roomy canopy and a twill weave fabric with Teflon coating that does a pretty solid job of drying quickly. It has a nice rubber handle too.

Repel Windproof Double Vented Travel Umbrella for $25 : This one is sturdy, handles high winds, and provides good coverage when open, collapsing down to just a foot in length. It comes in tons of gorgeous colors, and a single button opens and collapses the fiberglass ribs. But “It's. So. Dang. Hard. To. Close," according to my fellow umbrella reviewer, Louryn Strampe. Fully closing this umbrella is a two-handed operation, and she got so fed up with it during testing that she often just used the ground as leverage to push the handle down. It's a problem across the lineup.

LifeTek New Yorker Umbrella for $40 : This is a beast of an umbrella. The 54-inch canopy is more than large enough to keep you and someone else dry, and its fiberglass shaft and wind-resistant frame withstand gusts big and small. The handle has a rubbery grip and a single red button to open and expand the canopy. A Teflon coating ensures it dries quickly after the storm has passed. But between its awkward handle, the 1.5-lb weight, and the 3-foot length, my coworker Louryn Strampe felt the umbrella was too top-heavy for her 5'1" frame.

Senz Original Umbrella for $88 : The first time I took this umbrella out, I overheard someone say, “That's such a cool-looking umbrella.” It is! It looks like a kite shield, and the aerodynamic design can withstand winds of more than 60 mph. On a windy day in New York, the Senz merely bobbed up and down. Unfortunately, the canopy is hard to collapse unless you use both hands, which are not always free. The narrow shape also provides less coverage, although it does make it possible to stick the opened umbrella in your backpack and walk around covered and hands-free.

Blue umbrella with sharp edges and a thick handle open and resting on a hardwood floor in a hallway with white walls

Avoid These Umbrellas

Not every umbrella is worth your time and money. We didn't like these options, so steer clear.

Gilley Umbrella for $64 : The pitch for the Gilley is that you get a hard-shell case you can stuff the umbrella into to keep yourself and your space dry when you get indoors from the rain. No need to leave your umbrella open at the door! This isn't a new idea, but I have a few problems with Gilley’s implementation. First, stuffing the umbrella back into the water-bottle-esque plastic case isn't as easy as the company suggests. You have to nail wrapping the Velcro around the 34-inch canopy and cinch it tight or it won't fit well. When the umbrella is open, you’re supposed to affix the plastic case to the bottom so that it doubles as a handle, but this is not a comfortable handle at all because it's so thick. Yes, it does keep you dry when the wet umbrella is inside the case. But I came back to the Gilley after several weeks and found it still wet because I forgot to remove it from the container to dry when I got back home. Gross.

Amazon Basics Automatic Open Travel Umbrella for $15 :  Yes, it's cheap. Yes, it has a vented canopy for improved wind resistance. Yes, it automatically opens and closes at the touch of a button. But it's also the most shoddily built umbrella I've tried. After more than a year of use, parts of the inner frame are rusting and the Velcro on the canopy strap is starting to fray. There's zero fiberglass here too—the material's flex helps the umbrella manage the wind. The Balios or Prostorm we recommend above are so much better for the money.

ShedRain E-Motion Electric Umbrella for $150 : Er, you read that right. This is an electric umbrella. Yes, I know the irony. I, honestly, did not want to venture out into thunderstorms with a piece of aluminum and fiberglass mixed with a battery. The few times I did, the E-Motion did its job decently well. The Teflon-coated fabric feels durable and the nearly 40-inch canopy is spacious, but the motor is really loud and doesn't sound pleasant. This also means you need to recharge the umbrella and I just don't think we need another thing to recharge. I haven't yet needed to plug it in, but even if I did, I might be out of luck. When I moved, I misplaced the proprietary charger. Oops. If you have a family member who struggles with opening and closing an umbrella, this might be a nice option, but it's otherwise a bit too high-tech.

ShedRain AOAC Compact for $36 : I have used this umbrella perhaps three or four times and one of its ribs has already broken. ShedRain has a lifetime warranty, but there wasn't any reason for the rib to break.

ShedRain Vortex V2 Umbrella for $40 : I liked and used this umbrella for several months , then one day it stopped closing properly, and I couldn't fix it. I got another model to test and I'm still having issues. Despite being an auto-open/close umbrella, I still need to push the canopy and have it click into place manually to keep it open. The closing mechanism is just plain faulty as I'm already seeing it starting to fail again. It's relatively bulky for its size, but it's compact enough to shove into side backpack pockets. It has a nice strap and a comfy rubber handle. The canopy is made from 100 percent recycled polyester fabric and the frame is steel with nine ribs. It's unfortunate that its automatic functions keep failing.

ShedRain Stratus Chrome Umbrella for $90 : The auto-open/close umbrella felt a bit flimsy when I first tried it, and my gut was right. After months of use, the shaft has not held up all that well—it's jittery when it opens and closes.

ShedRain Mini Manual Umbrella for $38 : This is one of the tiniest umbrellas I've tested—it's just 6.5 inches long when closed—and the canopy is 100 percent recycled polyester from plastic bottles. I just hate the handle on this thing. It's wide, short, and just not comfortable at all to hold.

Image may contain Umbrella and Canopy

Umbrella Tips!

When shopping for an umbrella, there are a few traits you should look for.

  • 38-Inch Canopy or Larger: Unless you're going for something ultra-small like the Davek Mini, you ideally want a canopy with a 38-inch diameter or more to keep most of your body dry.
  • Eight Strong Ribs: Make sure there are at least eight ribs and that the ribs are made of some type of fiberglass—it's a flexible and sturdy material, so it'll fare better resisting high winds. It's even better if the shaft is made of fiberglass, too.
  • Double Canopy: If you’re in a windy area, a double-layer canopy (also called vented) will allow wind to pass through much better than a single canopy, which means better resistance and less of a chance for your umbrella to turn inside out. If your umbrella does turn inside out, you usually can reset it by pushing the button to close it or by pulling down the shaft and pushing it back up.

How to Avoid Losing Your Umbrella

For the longest time, my problem with umbrellas wasn't just the shoddy quality of the cheap ones I bought. It was how I frequently left them behind after a night out. There's no secret trick to remembering your umbrella before you leave a venue, but there are some ways that can help.

  • Attach a Bluetooth tracker to the umbrella. This one from Chipolo can stick anywhere and you can see the last location of where you placed your umbrella, which might help when you're trying to relocate it.
  • Buy from a company that offers loss prevention. Davek is one of the few brands that do this. If you lose the umbrella, you get 50 percent off a replacement. Davek has a Bluetooth tracker you can attach too.
  • This is purely anecdotal, but whenever I've used a more expensive umbrella, I've always been more conscious about grabbing it before leaving a party or restaurant. Also, the larger the umbrella, the easier it is to see before you leave. I can't say that this will work for anyone else, though.

best windproof travel umbrella

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The Best Umbrellas To Shield You From Wind, Rain And Snow

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If you’ve ever been caught in a downpour, you’ve probably come to appreciate how much a well-made umbrella can save the day. The best umbrellas are portable, easy to grip and resistant to wind and rain. Just like the best rain jackets and the best rain boots , they shelter you from all types of moisture, whether it’s a mild drizzle or full-on deluge. They also retain their shape when the weather turns blustery and can shield you from icy snow and pounding hail.

The best umbrellas can withstand the elements and last for years.

Obviously, not all umbrellas are made the same. To find the hardiest options out there, I talked to experts and researched what features will keep you fully protected the next time the skies turn dark. From ultra-sturdy large sizes to the most wind resistant models to a raved-about budget-friendly pick, these are the best umbrellas.

  • Best Umbrella Overall : Repel Umbrella Windproof Travel Umbrella
  • Best Value Umbrella : Lewis N. Clark Travel Umbrella
  • Best Travel Umbrella : umenice UPF 50+ UV Protection Travel Umbrella
  • Strongest Umbrella : Totes 50th Anniversary Stick Umbrella
  • Best Compact Umbrella : Sy Compact Travel Umbrella
  • Best Lightweight Umbrella : Lanbrella Umbrella Windproof Travel Umbrella
  • Best Wind Resistant Umbrella : LifeTek Kingston 54 Inch Windproof Umbrella
  • Best Large Umbrella : Royal Walk Windproof Large Umbrella

Best Umbrella Overall

Portable, strong and extremely well-made, repel umbrella windproof travel umbrella.

Colors: Black, Blue Sky, Grey, Rainbow, Red, Starry Night, Yellow | Frame Material: Fiberglass |Dual Canopy: Yes |Canopy Size: 42 inches |Weight: 15 ounces  

Repel’s top-rated umbrella has a fiberglass frame and dual canopy design–the cornerstones of a strong, wind-resistant umbrella–and the rubberized handle ensures you can grip it tightly. It’s also compact and lightweight for carrying on the go, and the automatic operation is speedy and failproof. If you’re an Amazon shopper, this pick has nearly 6,000 reviews, and a 4.5 star rating. Keep in mind: The overall size may be too small for serious storms.

Best Value Umbrella

Highly functional, affordable pick, lewis n. clark travel umbrella.

Colors: Black, Blue, Charcoal, Green, Orange, Purple, Red, Rust, Teal | Frame Material: Metal ribs with fiberglass tips |Dual Canopy: No |Canopy Size: 38 inches |Weight: 10 ounces  

Constructed with water-repellant fabric, a no-slip rubber handle and a rust-resistant metal frame, Lewis N. Clark’s umbrella is robust yet reasonably priced. Unlike less effective picks, this one has a reliable automatic open-close feature and lightweight design. Keep in mind: Some reviewers wished for a larger canopy size.

Best Travel Umbrella

Compact and multi-use for different conditions, umenice upf 50+ uv protection travel umbrella.

Colors: Black, Green, Pink | Frame Material: Aluminum |Dual Canopy: No |Canopy Size: 36 inches |Weight: Not listed

Gabby Beckford, travel expert and founder of Packs Light , likes Umenice umbrellas for their compact size and multipurpose design—this one is constructed with a UV material that shields rain and sun. “It’s also excellent at retaining its shape in the wind,” she says. If you’re like Beckford, you’ll appreciate the no-bulk design, too. “Packing as light as possible is always my priority,” she says. Keep in mind: This doesn’t have a dual canopy.

Strongest Umbrella

High-quality materials and ultra-sturdy design, totes 50th anniversary stick umbrella.

Colors: Dark Plaid, Raindrop Status, Sprinkles | Frame Material: Fiberglass |Dual Canopy: No | Canopy Size: 47 inches |Weight: N/A

Stick umbrellas are generally studier than collapsible umbrellas, and this Totes umbrella is especially great in nasty storms. It’s built with a polished maple wood handle, water-repellent fabric and a fiberglass frame and shaft. Reviewers rave about its “excellent quality” in strong winds and refined design. Keep in mind: It’s not a lightweight or compact umbrella.

Best Compact Umbrella

Easily stashed for on-the-go use, sy compact travel umbrella.

Colors: Black, Blue, Flower Red, Flower Yellow, Red, Starry Sky Blue | Frame Material: Aluminum | Dual Canopy: No | Canopy Size: 41 inches | Weight: 12 ounces 

Measuring just 10 inches long when stored, this umbrella easily fits in a purse, bag or backpack. It’s constructed with an aluminum frame, fiberglass ribs and an auto open-close button for durability and ease-of-use. Plus, it’s affordable. Keep in mind: Some reviewers note this umbrella is difficult to close. 

Best Lightweight Umbrella

Reverse folding and compact, lanbrella compact reverse folding umbrella.

Colors: Black, Burgundy, Navy Blue, Pink, Light Grey, Royal Blue, Dark Green | Frame Material: Alloy Steel | Dual Canopy: Yes | Canopy Size: 42 inches | Weight: Less than 16 ounces

Weighing in at less than a pound, this umbrella barely adds any heft to your bag, making it great for those in perpetually rainy climates. The dual canopy design defends against strong winds, and the automatic open-close button allows for easy access in a storm. Keep in mind: The canopy is on the small side.

Best Wind Resistant Umbrella

Oversized canopy and wind resistant for all weather, lifetek kingston 54 inch windproof umbrella.

Colors: Black | Frame Material: Fiberglass | Dual Canopy: No | Canopy Size: 54 inches | Weight: 1.6 pounds

This cane-style umbrella boasts an oversized canopy and a strong fiberglass frame for superior protection against super-strong gusts. The UPF 50+ fabric is a bonus and Amazon reviewers praise the Kingston’s overall sturdiness and high-quality construction. Keep in mind: It’s not super lightweight.

Best Large Umbrella

Big enough to cover two people, royal walk windproof large umbrella.

Colors: Black, Dark Red, Grey, Navy Blue, Red, Slate Blue, Yellow | Frame Material: Aluminum | Dual Canopy: No | Canopy Size: 47 inches | Weight: 1.5 pounds

The generously-sized umbrella will keep you–and your walking companions–sheltered and dry. The aluminum frame, fiberglass ribs, comfortable-to-grip wooden handle and water-repellent canopy make this a highly durable pick. Keep in mind: Due to the stick design, it’s not as convenient to carry as a collapsible umbrella. However, it does come with a shoulder strap for boosted portability.

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As a former resident of New York City, I spent years buying cheap, flimsy umbrellas at corner drugstores that easily flipped up in the wind, leaving me soaked. Finally, a relative gave me a sturdy, well-made stick umbrella that withstood even the hardest Northeast storms. It opened my eyes to the difference a quality umbrella can make in your life.

For this review, I read hundreds of online reviews and heavily researched the umbrella market. I also sought advice from two experts: Cam Vigliotta, the Gear Editor at Forbes Vetted and Gabby Beckford , a travel expert and founder of Packs Light .

How I Selected The Best Umbrellas

First, I spoke with experts about the qualities that go into a well-made umbrella, including materials, styles and sizes that are best for easy transport. I then used that criteria when evaluating different umbrellas, and only considered models that had excellent customer reviews and ratings of 4.4 stars or higher.

How to Pick The Best Umbrella For You

Two umbrellas might look the same on the outside but vary greatly in quality. When shopping, here’s what to pay most attention to:

  • Size: An umbrella must have a large enough canopy to keep you dry, but that doesn’t mean you should opt for the biggest you find. The right size canopy depends on the size of the user and the environment you plan to use it in. For instance, the ideal size umbrella for commuting through crowded city streets might be smaller than the perfect size umbrella for walking your dog in the suburbs. Keep in mind the scenarios in which you’re likely to use your umbrella when deciding what one is right for you. For reference, the umbrellas on this list vary in diameter from 36 inches ( Umenice UPF 50+ UV Protection Travel Umbrella ) to 54 inches ( LifeTek Kingston 54 Inch Windproof Umbrella ). Also note: If you want an umbrella to double as sun protection, a wider canopy is recommended. For rain-specific situations, you may opt for a deep canopy in lieu of a wide canopy.
  • Materials: “What your umbrella is made of really matters,” says Vigliotta. Look for a rubberized handle (versus a cheap plastic handle, which would likely become slippery when wet); a shaft made of fiberglass (which is a “really durable and really flexible material,” says Vigliotta) or a rustproof metal like aluminum; and a canopy made with polyester or some other type of waterproof fabric. Additionally, if you’re planning to use your umbrella for sun protection, look for fabrics treated with UPF protection.
  • Wind-resistant features: A good wind-resistant umbrella includes dual canopy venting–basically, slits near the top of the canopy. In the event that wind passes through and catches under your umbrella, the dual canopy venting will likely cause the wind to “go upwards through the vents as opposed to making your umbrella into a giant wind sail,” says Vigliotta. In addition, a quality wind-resistant umbrella will feature fiberglass ribs (ribs are the small pieces that branch out from the top of the umbrella and give the canopy its shape). Fiberglass is a strong, flexible material that will likely hold up even when pummeled by strong gusts. You’ll also want to see stretchers, or small supports that branch off from the shaft to the ribs and move up and down with the wind. This feature doesn’t force the canopy or the ribs to do all the work or to be as rigid, and it provides your umbrella with additional flexibility, “which actually adds quite a bit of strength,” Vigliotta explains. Lastly, for the ultimate wind resistance, look for a stick umbrella–they tend to be stronger and more wind-resistant than their collapsible counterparts.

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Home > Guide To The Best Travel Products > Best Travel Umbrellas To Keep You Dry

Best Travel Umbrellas To Keep You Dry

Here is a list of the best travel umbrellas to keep you dry during your travels.

Best Travel Umbrellas Reviews - TRAVEL REVIEWS

When traveling to a new destination, you can research the weather all you want, but you still need to be prepared for the unexpected. A freak downpour can happen anywhere, at any time, and not having an umbrella at hand could be a huge mistake. Of course, when traveling, you’ll want to find the best, smallest, and lightest umbrella without scrimping on quality. So, let’s talk best travel umbrellas .

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

What Is A Travel Umbrella?

A travel umbrella is, as the name would suggest, an umbrella that is small and compact, often lightweight, but also strong at the same time. Just because your umbrella is tiny, that doesn’t mean it should be able to blow inside out with the slightest gust.

Best Travel Umbrellas

Jueqi ultra light and small mini travel umbrella, awarded: best mini umbrella that folds.

best windproof travel umbrella

This mini travel umbrella is so small; you certainly won’t notice that you’re carrying it. It is just 6.5″ long when folded up and only weighs 200 g, so it’s certainly a lightweight folding umbrella. The umbrella also comes with a waterproof case for protection , and once you have used it, you can quickly put it back in the case without issues.

It is coated with high-tech Nano Polymer Compound to help you shake most of the water off once it has been used, and you can then pack it away straight away. You can also use this as a sun-shielding umbrella, as it protects you against 95% UV.

The best feature of this small, lightweight umbrella is that it folds: Tiny, and the outer coating means it dries fast—a good travel umbrella.

Why you should keep looking for a new travel umbrella: Manual opening only

OldPAPA Mini Five-Fold Pocket Umbrella

best windproof travel umbrella

Choose between four attractive colors in this super-small travel umbrella. With UV 50+ protection, the umbrella will save you from rain and sun while fitting easily into any bag at just 17 cm when folded up.

Small, lightweight, compact, and super-fashionable too! When unfolded, the umbrella has a diameter of 92 cm, so large enough to cover two people easily. The umbrella is also made of high-density cloth and has a slightly rougher handle, so it’s easy to grip and hold.,

AmazonBasics Automatic Small Portable Umbrella For Travel With Wind Vent

Awarded: Best Umbrella For The Price

best windproof travel umbrella

Thanks to its double-canopy wind vent and steel and polyester materials, this AmazonBasics umbrella is a perfect compact umbrella to take with you on trips. Its thoughtful design features a button that automatically opens the umbrella and can collapse the canopy again. As well as a soft-grip handle for ergonomic comfort, a wrist strap allows for hands-free carrying. The umbrella also comes with a slip-on storage sleeve.

The best feature of this small, lightweight travel umbrella: Customers appreciate the canopy’s size, considering it’s a small umbrella. It was also very cheap.

Why you should keep looking for the best travel umbrella: There have been complaints about the automatic opening mechanism.

Brands We Use And Trust

Brooklyn basix premium vented travel umbrella, awarded: best umbrellas for wind and rain.

best windproof travel umbrella

This small but ultra-effective travel umbrella is reinforced with steel ribs to stop it from blowing inside out during adverse weather, making it the best umbrella for wind. Despite its strength, it closes up small and compact while looking at the part with a red and charcoal top.

The umbrella is rated 30+ for UV protection from rain or the sun. Another perk is that this small windproof umbrella opens by button, so no wrestling with the opening mechanism when in a hurry! At just 1.2 lb, it is also a very lightweight choice.

The best feature of this small travel umbrella: Robust. It was awarded the best small umbrella for wind and rain.

Why you should keep looking for a new travel umbrella: Not as lightweight as some other umbrellas.

Umenice Automatic 9-Rib Travel Umbrella

best windproof travel umbrella

Available in navy blue, red, and black, this travel umbrella is deceivingly large because when folded up, it looks tiny, at just 11.5 inches. When you open the canopy, however, it measures 39″. This small travel umbrella is made of 210T thread-count fabric, and it has Charmous Dupont Teflon water-repellent coating, which is also oil and dust-repellent. The umbrella opens with the press of a button, and it is also very strong and windproof, with 9-rib construction.

The best feature of this automatic travel umbrella: Is that it has one button opening mechanism, which is handy

Why you should keep looking for another best portable umbrellas for travel: A little more expensive than some other travel umbrellas

Totes 6.7 Ounce Micro Mini Umbrella

best windproof travel umbrella

This micro travel umbrella is available in two bright colors, pink and green, so you will easily spot it in your bag when the rain starts. You can also use this product as a sun protection umbrella because it has UV protection and waterproof qualities. The compact travel umbrella is made of long-lasting nylon, and the frame is also strong and windproof. The umbrella weighs only 6.7 ounces and easily fits into your bag.

This travel umbrella’s best feature is that it is an attractive option and does the job.

Why you should keep looking for the best windproof mini umbrella: It doesn’t have a one-button opening mechanism.

Totes Micro Mini Purse Manual Umbrella

This travel umbrella is from a big-name brand, so you can expect quality. It is available in several different colors and patterns. The umbrella opens manually and comes with a protective cover and case to keep it safe and dry. The handle is made of rubber for easy gripping when walking around or in a strong wind, and the size when open is 38″, which is certainly large enough for two people walking side by side.

The best feature of this large umbrella that folds small: A sturdy travel umbrella from a big-name brand.

You should keep looking for a new travel umbrella: A manual  umbrella only.

Vumos Small Mini Umbrella With Case

Awarded: best compact travel umbrella.

If you like your umbrellas bright, this is the one for you. It is available in eleven bright colors and is compact and lightweight. The umbrella weighs 210 g, including the case, which is waterproof. The umbrella’s frame is made of strong metal and has fiberglass ribs to keep it in place during high winds. This compact wind-resistant umbrella is also made of Pongee fabric, which has a special water-resistant coating, and after one shake, it is almost dry!

The best feature of this mini quick-dry umbrella for travel: Fast drying, so you can store it almost instantly. It was awarded the best compact umbrella.

Why you should keep looking for a new travel umbrella: A little more expensive than some of the other travel umbrellas available

Cozyswan Travel Umbrella With Automatic Folding

Awarded: best collapsible umbrella for budget travel.

This is a great double-feature umbrella because it can protect you from rain and the sun, with a high UV rating. The umbrella opens with one button, and you do the same thing to close it. It is also constructed with a wind-protective frame, and the canopy is made of a polyamide and cotton blend, which is strong and highly waterproof. At just 24″ long when folded, it opens up to 43″, making it more than large enough for a rain umbrella that you can also use as a foldable beach umbrella.

The best feature of this sturdy, compact travel umbrella: Low cost

Why you should keep looking for a new travel umbrella: Only available in one color

Benkii 60mph Windproof 10 Rib Travel Umbrella

Awarded: best windproof travel umbrella.

Available in three muted, dark colors, this travel umbrella is easy to open and close with just one hand, using just one button. It is also made of 10-rib construction, which is more than most other travel umbrellas of its type, making it much more robust. The ribs are also made of reinforced, extremely flexible fiberglass. If the umbrella blows inside out, it will quickly flip back without damage.

This windproof travel umbrella’s best feature is solid , with 10-rib construction. It was awarded the best windproof mini umbrella for travel.

Why you should keep looking for a new travel umbrella: Not as light as some others available

EEZ-Y Compact Travel Umbrella With Windproof Double Canopy Construction

best windproof travel umbrella

This super-affordable high-quality compact umbrella sets itself apart from most other travel umbrellas thanks to its amazing double canopy construction. This feature allows wind to pass through the vents, which prevents the umbrella from flipping over or breaking.

On top of that, a stainless steel and fiberglass frame offers additional strength during strong wind gusts. This is also a lightweight windproof umbrella, while it folds down to 11 inches to easily fit in a backpack or tote bag .

The best feature of this wind-resistant travel umbrella is the Vented double canopy construction for ultimate wind resistance. Also very durable and lightweight.

Why you should keep looking for a new travel umbrella: It doesn’t fold down as small as other travel umbrellas.

E-Feel Windproof Rain Umbrella

This is a robust super-wind-resistant travel umbrella, made of strong steel and polyester. This umbrella weighs less than 1 lb, which is ideal for travel, and the Pongee material means it dries very quickly and can be stored away again almost immediately. With a button to open and close, you can easily use this travel umbrella with one hand.

The best feature of this lightweight, compact umbrella for travel: Easy to use and sturdy travel umbrella.

Why you should keep looking for a new travel umbrella: Only available in black

Repel Easy Touch Umbrella

Awarded: best lightweight compact travel umbrella.

While this umbrella is only available in black, it is a solid and durable choice for a lightweight travel umbrella. Its 9-rib construction makes it ultra-durable during strong winds, and it is made with reinforced fiberglass, which means it is flexible rather than snapping. The canopy dries almost instantly with Dupont Teflon technology. It is also lightweight, at less than 1 lb, and measures 11.5″ long. This is an excellent option if you’re looking for the best portable umbrella for wind.

This super lightweight travel umbrella’s best feature is extremely strong and quick to dry. It was awarded the best lightweight travel umbrella.

Why you should keep looking for a new travel umbrella: Not as small as some of the other choices

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Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella

best windproof travel umbrella

If ratings are essential to you while looking for the best travel umbrella, you’ll need specific want to have a look at this small travel umbrella from Rain-Mate. Receiving consistent top ratings, this is a sturdy, light, compact, and waterproof umbrella.

It has nine reinforced lightweight fiberglass ribs, while the metal shaft and handle provide strength. Its canopy can withstand the strongest wind gusts thanks to fail-safe technology hinges. Although gusts may still invert the canopy, they will not break! And for even more peace of mind, there’s also a lifetime replacement guarantee.

The best feature of this robust and compact umbrella is: It comes in 9 different colors and, as such, is suitable for men, women, and kids.

Why you should keep looking for a new lightweight umbrella for travel: Its fold-down size of 12 inches is larger than some alternatives and a bit heavy.

Why Should I Pack A Travel Umbrella?

Having a small travel umbrella means you are prepared and won’t get drenched by adverse weather when you least expect it. So you don’t get caught in the rain in the middle of nowhere! You might think a regular umbrella will do, but these are often larger and heavier, taking up important space inside your bag. Or even worse, you get burdened with carrying it around all day.

We also recommend a lightweight rain jacket!

Features to look for in the best compact umbrella for travel.

As with any product, there are certain things you need to look for when you decide on the best travel umbrella for you.

Cost Of A Travel Umbrella

You might be thinking that this is an extra cost you can do without, but we’ve already explored the fact that it is a purchase that is worth it. For that reason, finding the lowest-priced mini travel umbrella while still being high quality is essential .

Travel Umbrella Material And Durability

To be lightweight and durable, you need to look at the small travel umbrella’s material. Plastic is a popular choice, as this is very lightweight, but you will also find more luxurious options, such as waterproof satin material. Check out travel umbrella reviews like this, and become informed on what’s hot and what’s not! This is what will dictate the price to some extent, so a bit of research is required.

Other Considerations

Does it have an automatic pop-up feature? To what extent is it windproof? Is the handle small, or is it hooked? Do you need a slimline travel umbrella, a large travel umbrella, or a micro travel umbrella? Is it the best lightweight travel umbrella you can get for your money ? These are some of the questions you need to ask yourself to determine what meets your needs.

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These Top-Rated Umbrellas Won’t Let You Down In a Big Storm

By Kathleen Walsh

Kathleen Walsh

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

Is there a household object more cursed than the umbrella? It never rains when you have one on you, always rains when you left it at home, and you’re more likely to panic-buy a cheap one at the drug store when caught in a storm than give the purchase careful consideration. But if you have never shopped for an umbrella with actual intention, you may be unaware that it is actually possible to find one that doesn’t fly open in the wind, or get stuck when you try to open it, or continue dripping for hours after you’ve come out of the rain. It’s true.

Umbrella Buying Guide

If you want a really good umbrella, as in one that actually keeps you dry and will last for longer than three months, there are a few things to look out for. In addition to the obvious factors like the opening mechanism, size, and appearance, certain other features make a really good umbrella stand out.

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Closing Mechanism and Size: You can find a collapsible travel umbrella that is large enough to keep you (and a friend) fully dry, while still small enough to fit easily in your bag. We are especially taken with inverting umbrellas, which collapse inwards when closed, keeping the wet side on the interior.

What Are the Best Umbrellas?

We’ve rounded up some of the best umbrellas to buy online right now. All of these picks are top-rated and highly-reviewed, with points for durability, design and performance — I.e. they’ll keep you dry and keep you looking good at the same time.

1. Repel Windproof Double-Vented Umbrella

We’re impressed by this umbrella’s superior materials, including a waterproof Teflon coating on the canopy that you can simply shake water droplets from to instantly dry. Resin-reinforced fiberglass ribs are strong enough to withstand powerful blasts of wind, while the vented, double canopy also helps keep the umbrella from flipping inside out.

repel windproof automatic umbrella

Buy Repel Windproof Double-Vented Umbrella $26.99

2. LANBRELLA Windproof Travel Umbrella

The only problem with inverted umbrellas is that they tend to malfunction. This one, however, effectively flips inward when closed, keeping the umbrella (and you) perfectly dry. Users also note that while it provides more cover than average when opened, it also contracts into a smaller than average size when closed, making it a great portable pick.

lanbrella inverted travel umbrella

Buy LANBRELLA Windproof Travel Umbrella $23.95

3. ACEIken Golf Umbrella

Even though we love a travel umbrella, there are times that call for something larger. We like this oversized, 62-inch golf umbrella which is expansive enough to protect you and at least two other humans at once. It is also just as sturdy as it looks, living up to golf umbrellas’ reputations for sound durability in rough winds, thanks to the vented canopy and strong but flexible fiberglass ribs.

62inch golf umbrella

Buy ACEIken Golf Umbrella $23.99

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Travel Fashion Girl

Best Travel Umbrella Recommendations (By Our Awesome Readers!)

TRAVEL , Travel Accessories

best-travel-umbrella

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No matter the season, it’s easy to get caught in a rainstorm while traveling and get drenched if you’re not prepared. We’ve asked our readers for their best travel umbrella recommendations, and they delivered!

Best Travel Umbrella

Written by: Michelle Nati

Table Of Contents

If you’ve ever been to London , Amsterdam , or any other European cities during rainy seasons, you can almost always guarantee some rain while on your trip. On the days it isn’t raining, you might need to keep yourself covered from the sun.

Carrying a heavy raincoat just won’t do. If you’re wondering which are the best travel umbrellas to bring, our readers weigh in with their reviews. They know the importance of having something easy to carry and pack, and that will keep you dry. Here are their tried and tested recommendations!

Top Umbrella Travel Picks

best-travel-umbrella

LANBRELLA Compact Travel Umbrella

Travel Beach Umbrella: LANBRELLA

The Ultra Lite Umbrella  Supermini is an elegant umbrella at an affordable price and you can choose from two sizes. Readers say it’s small, compact, and does the job for keeping them dry or shaded from the hot sun. And when the rain comes, just push the button to automatically open it and away you go. 

You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly !

best-travel-umbrella

GAOYAING Mini Travel Umbrella

Small Travel Umbrella: GAOYAING 

This  compact umbrella fits in the palm of your hand and can be stuffed in your purse while on the go. It’s lightweight and able to withstand the wind without breaking. One reader says, “I carry a Travelon crossbody bucket bag that has a compartment for a small umbrella. Mine weighs nothing and is always with me when I travel. It has a UV coating, and I use it when it’s hot and sunny too.”

Create a full rainy day outfit with these cute rain boots for women!

best-travel-umbrella

Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella

Lightweight Travel Umbrella: Rain-Mate

With patented, fail-safe flip technology and a sturdy but lightweight metal and fiberglass frame, the Rain-Mate will keep you thoroughly protected against strong winds and the elements. One reader says the brand’s products are always on point. “They are inexpensive, decent enough quality, and they have many styles/prints. Their umbrellas fit in any bag when folded!”

Blondo Villa is a solid waterproof boot–learn why!

best-travel-umbrella

EEZ-Y Compact Travel Umbrella

Compact Travel Umbrella: EEZ-Y 

This parasol by EEZ-Y has a mechanical locking system that is simple to use, allowing for an almost instant canopy of coverage from the elements. Readers tout its stylishness (it comes in several colors and patterns) and say it’s an overall great accessory that folds up small.

Want something less bulky? Here’s the best lightweight rain products !

best-travel-umbrella

Repel Windproof Umbrella

Travel Umbrella Amazon Best Buy: Repel

The Repel windproof travel umbrella with Teflon coating can chase away any rainy days yet dries fairly quickly. When you’re done using it, shake it off, and store it—you won’t have to worry about your things getting drenched. More rugged than similarly priced umbrellas on the market, it will get you through your vacation, rain or shine!

Here are the best fall coats to keep you dry and warm on the road!

best-travel-umbrella

totes Titan Foldable Umbrella

totes Travel Umbrella: Titan

A windproof umbrella that works when needed comes courtesy of totes . It collapses down easily to fit into a backpack, but when opened has a massive, sturdy canopy that does the job in every situation, from a downpour to a day at the beach. One reader loves hers because it’s “very small and inexpensive.”

Take a look at these lightweight fall jackets !

best-travel-umbrella

Knirps Duomatic Umbrella

Mini Travel Umbrella: Knirps

Knirps invented the folding umbrella way back in 1928, so you know they get rain protection just right. The duomatic will get you where you want to go, dry, and in high style. One reader says it’s not only lightweight, elegant, and functional; it is durable too. “I’ve had mine for years with no problems, and I like it because of its compact size and cute zipper shell case.”

Keep rain-free throughout fall and spring with these versatile boots !

Umbrella Accessories

best-travel-umbrella

Xinda Carabiner Clip 

Travel Umbrella Clip: Xinda

When you’re traveling, you mostly want to keep your hands free when you can. A clip like this one by Xinda will help you carry smaller items by attaching them to your body. When it comes to your umbrella, you can attach it to a carabiner, so you don’t have to shove it back in your purse wet. As one reader says, “Doing this is so much easier than having to haul it around manually all day.” 

Alternatives to an Umbrella

best-travel-umbrella

Columbia Arcadia II Waterproof Jacket | Sizes XXS-3XL

Columbia Arcadia II

This quality rain jacket by Columbia feels thick, allows for plenty of layers, and holds up under rainy day scrutiny. It fits snug around hips and wrists (which have Velcro for tightening) to keep you dry. On top of everything else, it comes in plenty of bright, bold colors and diverse sizing. 

One reader, who touts this brand’s great packable options, calls this jacket, “awesome.” Another reader agrees, adding, “It’s a reasonable price. I’ve had mine for years.” 

Check out our full Colombia jacket review !

best-travel-umbrella

Eddie Bauer Rainfoil Packable Jacket | Sizes XXS-2XL

Eddie Bauer Rainfoil

Eddie Bauer has you covered for whatever Mother Nature has in store. This sturdy piece will shield you from it all, without being overly bulky or heavy. You’ll be cozy, but not too hot in its light, breathable polyester shell, and it comes in three different fits to match your body type. 

One reader who wore hers in Scotland in springtime was impressed with its coverage. “I like that it came down to my hip. It covered my bum, had a hood and, was just the right weight for me. It was very light, so I was able to layer underneath.”

Stay even drier with this list of rain jackets for women !

best-travel-umbrella

Cole Haan Back Bow Packable Hooded Raincoat | Sizes XS-3X

Cole Haan Packable Jacket 

This lux-looking coat by Cole Haan   seems less like you’re roughing it camping and more like you’re up for an urban adventure on the rain-soaked streets of Vienna or Rome. Waterproof, lightweight, roomy, and breathable, it dries quickly and packs small in its own pocket. 

Readers love its streamlined look, with one saying it packs down easy, too. “ The right pocket converts into a stuff sack for packing convenience.”

Look at this post for how to wear trench coats stylishly!

best-travel-umbrella

SaphiRose Hooded Zip Up Poncho

SaphiRose Poncho

A dependable rain poncho can keep you dry but may be more practical than cute. SaphiRose has turned the tables with this whimsical piece in black and white polka dots. One reader, who purchased hers before heading to Ireland says, “I couldn’t find a plus size that suited me, and this totally did the trick! Kept myself and my backpack nice and dry and folded up tight.” 

Here are the best waterproof jackets for travel!

Product Comparison Chart

You can learn about our hacks with packing cubes in this video !

best-travel-umbrella

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

How Do I Pack My Umbrella?

Many of our readers use packing cubes to organize their rain gear and accessories. Compass Rose packing cubes allows you to do so by number and color, so you know what’s in each bag. 

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

What do you think the best travel umbrella is? Share and comment below!

For more travel accessories, please read:

  • 15 Must-Have Travel Accessories Our Readers Can’t Live Without
  • Best Travel Alarm Clock Recommendations to Help You Wake-Up
  • Business Travel Essentials: 15 Products to Simplify Your Life
  • The 7 Best Eye Masks for Long Flights

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12 best umbrellas for facing the unpredictable British weather

We put a range of brollies to the test in drizzle, heavy rain and wind over several weeks, to find the ones that really kept us dry, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Choose a sturdy, stylish brolly and you’ll always feel like singing in the rain

Blunt metro umbrella.jpg

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If there’s one thing you can rely on in life, it’s the unpredictable British weather. Investing in a sturdy umbrella that can survive the wind and rain will ensure you’re not left sopping wet and miserable, clutching desperately onto a brolly that’s flipped inside out.

But picking one that will last a lifetime isn’t as easy as picking rain-soaked daisies from the garden . There are so many factors to consider, such as design, durability, size, weight, handle grip, whether it opens and closes automatically or manually, reinforced canopies, cases and more.

There are umbrellas for every scenario. Handbag and backpack umbrellas that can be pulled out at a moment’s notice, larger umbrellas that can protect the whole family and can be chucked in the car boot, and golf umbrellas for, well, golfers.

There are clear umbrellas for weddings , lightweight umbrellas for kids and windproof umbrellas that won’t have you shamefully trying to pull them right-side out. We’d also recommend getting a  waterproof jacket  if you’re determined to stay completely dry. Whatever the occasion, we’ve tested a number of umbrellas that will have you covered – literally.

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How we tested.

We put a range of umbrellas to the test in drizzle, heavy rain and winds of up to 30mph over several weeks and months to find the ones that really kept us dry and saved us from the embarrassment of having them blow inside out, only to be dumped within days.

If they did flip inside out, would they flex back in again? Was the metal and the canopy strong? Did they look good? And how easy were they to use? Portability, coverage and design were all important considerations in our tests.     

The best umbrellas for 2023 are:

  • Best overall umbrella – Blunt metro umbrella: £63.11, Amazon.co.uk
  • Best golf umbrella – Fulton cyclone: £39.14, Amazon.co.uk
  • Best windproof umbrella – Senz large: £64.90, Senz.com
  • Best handbag umbrella – Marimekko mini manual unikko umbrella: £50, Marimekko.com
  • Best clear umbrella – Fulton birdcage umbrella: £21.50, Amazon.co.uk

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Blunt metro umbrella

  • Best : Overall umbrella
  • Style : Foldable
  • Weight : 385g
  • Open diameter : 100cm
  • Closed size : 37.5cm
  • Wind tested to : Category 1 hurricane (up to 95mph)
  • Automatic or manual : Automatic

Blunt’s metro umbrella is the dreamiest brolly you’ll ever lay your eyes on, with a stylish, scalloped design that not only looks good but is also practical. Its design is thoughtfully engineered, and helped us avoid close calls and accidental pokes in the eye when navigating busy London streets.

That’s because the Blunt metro has reinforced pockets at the canopy edge to keep the spokes out of harm’s way and stop them from popping out as they often do on cheaper umbrellas. It also has a 360-degree spinning canopy to protect the core mechanism if it is knocked. It never blew inside out in strong, 30mph winds (it’s rated up to 95mph), and remained strong and sturdy in our hand.

It has an auto-open button, and the umbrella release button is rubberised, so there’s no danger of catching your finger on any metal tabs, collapsing down with ease. The handle is super comfortable to hold, and the genius half-zip case meant we didn’t have to wrestle trying to put it back in its sheath. It comes in a range of bold and bright colours, as well as more subdued hues, plus it’s pretty lightweight and can fit neatly in a backpack, though maybe not a small handbag.

Fulton tornado umbrella

  • Best : Men’s umbrella
  • Type : Folding
  • Weight : 545g
  • Open diameter : 120cm
  • Closed size : 37cm
  • Wind tested to : Extreme weather

You’ll be in good company if you choose a Fulton – the family-run business was founded in 1956 and its umbrellas were used by Queen Elizabeth II, and now the King and Queen Consort, because even royalty can’t escape the British rain.

The Fulton tornado is one majestic-looking umbrella. Featuring a wide canopy that two people can just about fit under, and a clever three-stage automatic frame. We always felt protected from the elements under this brolly, and it never flipped inside out.

It’s strong, featuring reinforced polymer ribs of steel for extreme strength and a vented canopy, so never felt like the thing was going to collapse in on us in high winds. Plus, this one opens and closes automatically, and folded up so that we could store it away easily in our rucksack.

There are a few things to consider, however. The handle is a little uncomfortable to hold with its bulbous size and foam texture, and it’s also on the heavy side. But, given its affordable price tag, it’s a pretty good buy.

Fulton birdcage umbrella

fulton clear umbrella.jpg

  • Best : Clear umbrella
  • Type : Stick umbrella
  • Weight : 530g
  • Open diameter : 84cm
  • Closed size : 94cm
  • Wind tested to : Wind-resistant

If it’s good enough for royalty, it’s good enough for us. If you’re sick of bumping into people every time it rains, as you can’t see a thing under your umbrella, Fulton’s birdcage umbrella is for you. The very brolly used by the Queen Elizabeth II features an elegant dome shape that stretches right down to your shoulders, for full coverage.

The dome shape already gave the umbrella some resistance in the strongest of winds, but its fibreglass ribs really ensured it was flexible enough to withstand a big gust of air. And the clear PVC material made it a doddle to see through, while keeping us completely dry.

The curved handle is easy to hold and comes in four colours with a matching trim on the canopy. The clear design makes it particularly suited for weddings, if the weather turns. It doesn’t fold up, however, so you do need to carry it like a cane when not in use, but it closes and opens automatically, to make that chore easier.

Hunter transparent moustache bubble umbrella

hunter transparent umbrella .jpg

  • Best : Umbrella for style
  • Type : Full-length stick
  • Weight : 466g
  • Open diameter : 86cm
  • Closed size : 89cm
  • Wind tested to : Not specified
  • Automatic or manual : Manual

Add some pizzazz to precipitation with this statement umbrella from British brand Hunter. The sturdy brolly has a hybrid frame of fibreglass and reinforced plastic, for maximum flexibility, and barely even trembles in the fiercest wind, while the transparent canopy means you can hold it low over your face but still not bump into anyone.

We tested it in the pouring rain on the school run, and it easily kept two dry underneath. The quirky moustache-shaped trim is printed tastefully with the Hunter name and comes in military red and black, which co-ordinate perfectly with Hunter boots, if you have them.

Despite its size, it’s also surprisingly light to hold for a long time with the matte curved handle, although there’s no case to keep it dry after use. Still, we’ll be storing it in our car boot, secretly hoping for rain, just so we can whip it out.

The Davek solo umbrella

davek solo.jpg

  • Best : Premium umbrella
  • Weight : 510g
  • Open diameter : 109cm
  • Closed size : 29.8cm

We’ve never swooned over an umbrella before (honest) but this elegant brolly from New York company Davek had us at ‘hello’, with its smart red gift box. Inside, the umbrella is the ideal compromise between a teeny handbag-sized option or a long stick umbrella that can’t be folded away.

The Solo packs down to a respectable 30cm when closed, to fit in a larger bag or rucksack, yet it’s as solid in high wind as a larger stick style. Coverage is a comfortable 94cm when open, which just about kept two of us dry, and the high-grade steel, fibreglass and aircraft-grade aluminium frame was rock steady.

It comes in plain navy or black, or black trimmed with either lavender, green or pale blue, and has a leather wrist strap, handy clip for attaching to a bag and a smooth ergonomic handle. We loved the fact we could open it one-handed, even when weighed down with bags, thanks to the auto-open and close button, which also ingeniously corrects the ribs if they ever do invert.

It’s on the heavy side and definitely pricey, but Davek promises to repair or replace the umbrella for free forever if it fails to work properly. Just make sure you don’t leave it on the bus.

London Undercover navy city gent lifesaver umbrella

London Undercover navy E1 city gent umbrella.jpeg

  • Best : Investment umbrella
  • Weight : Not specified
  • Open diameter : 106cm
  • Closed size : 91.5cm

Seriously up your rain game with a pricey but devastatingly chic handcrafted umbrella from London Undercover. This is probably the fanciest brolly you’ll ever lay eyes on but it will definitely put a spring in your step on even the dampest days.

Handmade in – surprise! – London, it has a sleek silver tip cup and spokes, an unshakeable steel frame and a navy polyester canopy that opens to a generous 106cm diameter to keep you bone dry. We particularly loved the curved handle made of stylish dark brown maple, which was easy to hold and not at all heavy.

It can’t be folded and tucked into a bag, of course, but you’ll want to keep this umbrella swinging proudly from your arm anyway. The brand will even engrave it for you, if it’s a present.

Want to spend a little less? Try the company’s London vintage map classic umbrella (£95, Londonundercover.co.uk ), which we also loved – it features a fascinating 1930s map of the capital under the black canopy.

Totes eco-brella x-tra strong auto open/close umbrella

totes xtra strong umbrella .jpg

  • Best : Strong umbrella
  • Weight : 452g
  • Open diameter : 108cm
  • Closed size : 32.3cm

Ever dumped a brolly in disgust after it’s turned inside out at the merest hint of wind? We have. There’s no chance this fantastic umbrella will meet the same fate, though, as it was easily one of the hardiest we tested, standing firm even on a very blustery day when we’d normally skip a brolly completely. Made of 100 per cent polyester with an aluminium and steel frame, it’s been previously tested in a wind tunnel and Totes claim it will withstand 60 per cent stronger winds than an average umbrella.

Although it’s a reasonable 32.3cm when folded and easily packs into a rucksack, it opens up to a diameter of 108cm, which kept us completely dry even in squally rain. The canopy is also made completely from recycled PET polyester fabric, but you’ll never know it just by looking.

There’s no need to battle to close it after the wind’s done its worst either, as it closes automatically at the (smug) push of a button. A fantastic all-round buy.

Fulton cyclone umbrella

  • Best : Golf umbrella
  • Weight : 878g
  • Open diameter : 131cm
  • Closed size : 100cm
  • Wind tested to : 78mph

Golfers, this is the umbrella you’ve been searching for. Larger than your standard brolly, it’ll protect you from the rain and the sun, including your basket, while out on the range. And you won’t have to worry about holding it upright when you’re on the course on a blustery day, because it’s wind-tested up to 78mph. It was strong in our tests, and had us protected at every angle.

Featuring a classic black UV design, it has a rubberised handle, making it comfortable to hold and there’s even a silicone finger pad for increased ergonomics. It comes inside a smart carry case with a strap for slinging over your back when you’re all done.

It is very heavy, but that’s to be expected given its size and its glorious fibreglass construction. And while the cyclone is best for holes in one, we’ve also used it on drizzly walks in the park with our dog and it performed just as well.

Marimekko mini manual unikko umbrella

Marimekko mini manual unikko umbrella.jpg

  • Best : Handbag umbrella
  • Open diameter : 94cm
  • Closed size : 16cm

The rain will never put a dampener on your day again with this teeny umbrella that can be chucked in any bag. Measuring just 16cm when closed, it comes in a monochrome floral pattern that goes with everything and is opened and closed manually. We were particularly impressed with the wide Velcro strap to keep the brolly tightly closed after use, which felt much more secure than the usual thin fastener and made it easy to slip back inside the cover after use. Despite its size, we found it surprisingly robust in all but the strongest winds, making this brolly a worthy handbag staple.

Blunt coupe umbrella

  • Best : Umbrella for the school run
  • Weight : 428g
  • Open diameter : 105cm
  • Closed size : 73.5cm
  • Wind tested to : 71mph

If you love the look of the Blunt metro, the Blunt coupe is like a bigger, more school-run-friendly version of it. Keep it in your car and pull it out when the weather gets severe, and you’ll be able to house yourself and your children under this statement-making brolly.

It’s a full-length piece, so won’t fold away, but it looks as brilliant as ever, with its blunt tips hidden away inside pockets for a streamlined design. And while it’s a manual brolly instead of an automatic one, that functional decision helps keep the coupe light for something so broad.

The umbrella is sturdy, withstanding severe British winds (it’s wind-tested up to 71mph). We’re obsessed with Blunt’s umbrellas, and the coupe does the job just as well as the Blunt metro.

Fulton aerolite

  • Best : Lightweight umbrella
  • Weight : 86g
  • Open diameter : 83cm
  • Closed size : 20cm
  • Wind tested to : Wind-resistant frame

OK, this might be one of the lightest umbrellas ever made. It’s so featherlight, sometimes we even forgot we were holding it. It weighs just 86g – that’s 10 50p coins, or a deck of playing cards, or a tube of mascara, or a box of bees wax. You get the idea, this thing is light, and folds away into a teeny-tiny cylinder.

But how does that lightweight design translate when used as an actual umbrella? Surprisingly well. It still features a three-stage frame and the polyester canopy effectively covered us from the elements. But its downfall is the wind. While it features five carbon ribs, it’s not strong enough to resist inversion. It kept flipping inside out at the smallest gust.

That’s the trade-off with having a lightweight brolly. The good thing? It doesn’t actually break when it does invert, you can just push it back in and it will continue on its way as if nothing happened. The wind won’t damage the umbrella, but you might feel a little embarrassed.

The verdict: Umbrellas

You’ll probably never need to buy another umbrella again if you splash out a little bit on the Blunt metro umbrella . It’s a gorgeous brolly that looks the part and won’t let you down in even the strongest wind and rain. If you can’t face splashing out quite so much to stay dry, the Totes auto open/close umbrella is an impressive hard-wearing alternative that won’t let you down, and the Senz large is seriously good if you’ve just had enough of the wind.

To keep little ones warm and dry, invest in one of the best kids’ puddle suits

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1 Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

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4 all-russian exhibition center, 5 sokolniki park.

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6 Zaryadye Park

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The Best Time To Visit Moscow - Summer VS Winter | Moscow Places Blog

The Best Time to Visit Russia and Moscow

What time of the year is best for visiting russia, moscow winter vs moscow summer – let the fight begin.

I guess you have already heard that Russia is the coldest country in the world, right? Really want to say sorry to you… but you were mistaken all this time. Yes, it gets extremely cold in some parts of my huge country. But to be honest in those areas only few people live. The majority of the cities are located in a pretty warm climate and it the weather gets too cold we don’t go outside. Moscow winter is not too much cold. Because Russian people love to stay warm more than anyone else.

But you have to decide what is the best time to go for yourself. So Let’s get a closer look at each of the seasons.

WINTER IN MOSCOW – TO GO OR NOT TO GO

Wrapped in all white the city is like a pretty Russian girl who gets married also gets dressed up in white gown, wears a lot of sparkling decorations. The winter time is definitely the most special time and a very unique experience. That is why I place winter on the first place.

  • Average temperature from Dec to Feb -10° C
  • The coldest is January down to -25° C
  • What to wear really warm winter jacket, winter boots, winter hat and winter gloves
  • Any holidays or festivals?  New Year celebrations, Orthodox Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Defender’s Day

What is good about Moscow winter? First of all it is very beautifully decorated so you will be able to take reaaly good pictures and then post those on Instagram. The Moscow government starts decorating all the city in early December, everything is shining with lights and almost everywhere you will find the main attribute – a Christmas tree. But do not expect any mass celebrations on 25th of December. Most of the Russians are Orthodox Christians and they celebrate Orthodox Christmas on 7th of January. And actually we even call all the decorations “New Year decorations”, “New Year Tree” etc.

And of course during the winter time in Moscow there are tons of activities to do. You can skate almost in any park, even on The Red Square. You can try forest skiing, mountain skiing, snowboarding, sledging, tube sliding and many other fun activities.

Do not be afraid! Winter in Moscow is so much cool!

SUMMER IN MOSCOW – THE BEST TIME TO ENJOY THE CITY

Most of the tourists visit Moscow during the warm summer period. In the summer it is so diverse: the skyscrapers reflect the bright blue sky, the streets are full of green trees and colorful flowers, people are smiling to each other.

  • Average temperature from Jun to Aug  20° C
  • The warmest is July up to 27° C
  • What to wear  whatever you normally wear in summer but just for any case prepare an umbrella and a jacket
  • Any holidays or festivals? Children’s Day,   Day of Russia, Navy Day, every week there are different festivals in the parks

Summer in Moscow is probably the best time for visiting. It is my favourite season. When we were kids June, July and August were holidays from school so we could do whatever we wanted. So I guess all of us, Russians I mean, got used to having fun in summer that’s why there are a lot of festivals and most of the people take yearly leave in July or August. Many just roam around the city parks, hiding from sun in the shades of trees, taking free yoga or dance classes. Youth go out with their skateboards, rollers, rent bicycles and enjoy the active lifestyle. Also it is possible to take a ferry ride on the Moscow river and closer to the evening it gets only more romantic. At night a lot of us go to different restaurants, nightclubs, cafes, outdoor cinemas. It is very difficult to resist the Moscow charm and stay inside. 

But unfortunately the last 2 years weather gets very unpredictable. One day it can go up to 30°C and the next day it can go down to 10°C and cold rain. So I suggest you to check the weather forecast before you come. Prepare the right clothes, please. But in any way if you get too hot or too cold you are always welcome to hide in museums, cafes, exhibition complexes.

FALL SEASON IN MOSCOW – GOLDEN SEASON

The autumn in Moscow is actually not the most popular touristic season. But if you plan to come during this time do not get upset! Moscow will please you with golden colors of the fall.

  • Average temperature Sep, Oct, Nov  11°C, 5°C, -1°C
  • Temperature changes significantly  be aware
  • What to wear  depending on the month prepare different cloths, check the forecast and keep an umbrella
  • Any holidays or festivals? 1st Day of School, Teacher’s Day, Unity Day

I want to be honest with you. The sky becomes gray and it often rains. The cold wind makes you want to stay indoors all the time. But still the nature tries to brighten up our life and add some colors. The most colorful time to visit is the end of September or October. Then leaves on the trees change the color and it gets very very beautiful. I promise you if you catch this time you will make a lot of great pictures. We call it Golden Autumn.

But even if you get unlucky with the weather Moscow still has a loooot of things to offer you. Most of tourists prefer visiting museums, theaters, various concerts and exhibitions. If you want to spend your time more actively I suggest you to visit mazes, escape room games, try trampolines parks and other fun activities.

Do not miss a chance to come to Moscow even if you are afraid the weather might be not very pleasant! Moscow is always welcome for guests.

SPRING IN MOSCOW – TIME TO FALL IN LOVE 

Spring is the time when the nature wakes up after the long winter sleep. Sun becomes brighter, temperature gets warmer, flowers start to bloom and people start to smile at each other. We say it’s the season of falling in love. And no wonder. I think you also might fall in love with the city if you come in spring.

  • Average temperature Mar, Apr, May  -1°C, 6°C, 13°C
  • Temperature changes significantly  be prepared
  • What to wear  prepare good shoes, the snow is melting, keep your feet warm and dry
  • Any holidays or festivals? Women’s Day, Maslenitsa,  Labour’s Day, Victory Day, Easter

The spring time is the time when the snow melts and summer finally wins the fight against winter. We have a holiday to celebrate the end of winter. It is called Maslenitsa. During a whole week we eat a lot of Russian style pancakes, go out, dance and on Sunday burn a winter scarecrow to let it pass away. It sounds funny and maybe creepy but this tradition is hundreds years old. 

Be aware of holidays in spring

After Maslenitsa the weather usually gets warmer and even the people change. You may think I am kidding and people don’t change. But come here during a sunny day in March and you will see so many smiles around that you never get to see that many any other time. 

Also March, 8th is a very important day in Russia. On this day florists sell more flowers than any other day, more than on Valentine’s day or any other day. Russian women are beautiful and they deserve to get a beautiful flower on the Women’s day. So don’t be shocked when you see every single girl on the street holding a tulip or a few of them. 

On May, 9th we have the second main celebration after the New Year celebrations. On this day we celebrate the victory in the World War II. Maybe you don’t know, but Russia has lost tens of millions during the military operations. Everyone here has a relative of few of them who died during the war, everyone knows how our families suffered and basically had no food to eat, our grandparents still remember everything like it was yesterday. So on the Victory Day we not only celebrate but also show how much we cherish what was done and how much we appreciate it. This day is really special I will write a special article about this day later. Do not miss it.

Do not miss  The best 6 places with a panoramic view of Moscow

20 thoughts on “The Best Time to Visit Russia and Moscow”

' src=

You have brought up a really wonderful points, thanks for the post.

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Thank you!! I am glad you liked it!!

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Very well explained and i didnt realize that Russia had so much to offer for Tourists, ill be looking forward to visit Russia soon now,

I hope you will really enjoy your stay in Russia! Whenever you come! 🙂

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Hi.. so what do u suggest, better come in early january or early march ?

Hi! If you want to see snow and decorations then totally go for January!

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Hi.. What is the best time to see flower there? Is july still have flower? Thanks~

Hi! Thank you for a good question! Moscow is full of flowers all the time from the end of May to September. But there is a Festival of flowers in Moscow which will take place from 28th of June to 7th of July 2019. You can see some pictures of the last year here So if you have a chance to come during these dates! 🙂

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' src=

Hi guys how are you doing, I’m visiting Russia by the first of Oct. can you guys tell me is it expensive and how is the weather in Oct.

The weather in October in Moscow is around 10 degrees during the day and 2 degrees at night. Other cities in Russia can be different.

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I’d like to visit for New Year’s Eve, and be in Red Square for midnight. But are the celebrations better for New Year’s, or better for Orthodox Christmas? If I only had time for one, or the other?

Definetely the New Year! Russians don’t really celebrate the Christmas. But I must tell you that the only way to be in the Red Square for the New Year midnight is to buy a ticket for GUM ice sakting rink.

' src=

thank you and very informative , I am plaining to visit end of septmber and i have seen so many autumn fotos. Where did you take these photos. Can you exactly specify the location of those fotos please

Unfortunately these photos were not made by me, so I can’t tell you the exact location 🙂 but actually in autumn, during the fall season you can just go to any park to take some good shots. You can check here my favorites 🙂

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Do u think its very cold and difficult for people to visit in November which makes them not enjoying the countries and cant see very well the city ? I mean if i come from the gulf countries and we didnt use to this very cold weather would it be hard to enjoy and unpleasant? Thx

I think it depends on the weather more than the temperature. Wind and rain are the worst things that could spoil the vacation. But in those days you could just prefer indoors activities and it would become better.

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What can we see in April? Melted snow? What kind of flowers we can see?

The first flowers are called snowdrops. Byt he end of April the weather gets warmer and in dendraparks you will be able to see tens of different flowers on the ground as well as on the trees

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19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

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Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

Saint Basil's Cathedral in Moscow, Russia

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

Interior of the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscos

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

GUM, a popular department store in Moscow

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

Christ the Savior Cathedral in Moscow

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

Gates at Gorky Park in Moscow

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

River cruise in Moscow

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

Moscow Metro station

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

Moscow State University at dusk

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

Izmailovsky Market in Moscow, Russia

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

The skyscrapers of Moscow City

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

Art in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve, former residence of Catherine the Great

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

Kolomenskoye Museum-Reserve in Moscow

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

Ostankino TV Tower in Moscow at night

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

The floating bridge of Zaryadye Park in Moscow

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

The rooftops of Moscow, Russia

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

A pool at Sanduny Banya in Moscow

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

  • 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
  • Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
  • Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Image of Sarah Kingdom

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

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