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From Cozy Jackets to Versatile Shoes, This Is the Most Comfortable Travel Clothing According to Our Editors

Lululemon, Vuori, and Allbirds all scored spots on our list.

In This Article

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Kristin Kempa

You may have a designated travel sweatshirt or a favorite pair of shoes to wear on flights — but what about other essentials, like pants, jackets, T-shirts, dresses, and pajamas? If you prioritize comfort in transit, it’s time to revamp your travel wardrobe to ensure every trip is a cozy one. Lucky for you, we editors at Travel + Leisure rounded up a few of our favorite comfy clothing items we always wear on the road and in the sky.

From impossibly soft lounge sets to what we believe are the world’s comfiest jeans, we've combed our closets for those few items we tend to wear every time we travel. Our list includes favorites from Lululemon, Patagonia, Lilly Pulitzer, and more, so whether you prefer to travel in loose-fitting loungewear or more compressive clothing, you’re sure to find something you love below.

lululemon Define Jacket Luon

We’ve all been on a flight that’s chilly enough for some extra layers but too warm for a heavy coat or sweatshirt. That’s why we always pack this comfy, light jacket in our carry-on. Not only is it incredibly sleek and stylish thanks to its slim fit, but it’s also super soft, stretchy, breathable, and easy to move in. The sleeves even feature thumbholes and “cuffins” (cuffs that can be folded over your hands) for added warmth. Snag the Define Jacket Luon in eight sizes and five shades including espresso and bone.

“This jacket is essentially my plane uniform — I wear it every single time I fly,” editor Sophie Mendel said. “It's comfy but keeps me looking put-together, plus I can wear it with leggings and sneakers for a super functional, comfortable, and cute transit 'fit. It also has two zippered pockets which are extra-convenient during travel.”

Calia Women's Inspire High Rise 7/8 Legging

Dick's Sporting Goods

Flying in compression leggings is wise, especially for long-haul flights, but some compression leggings tend to squeeze you uncomfortably. That’s never a problem with Calia’s Inspire High Rise 7/8 leggings, though. Boasting subtle compression that molds to your body, the leggings are sure to remain comfy and breathable without sliding down or sagging. They even have unique seam lines that strategically accentuate your curves — though, admittedly,  this is more noticeable in some colors than others. To top it off, we love the way they feel to the touch.

“These Calia leggings are without a doubt the softest pair I own,” associate editor Hillary Maglin said. “I've worn them for everything from yoga classes to grocery runs to a recent 12-hour travel day, and I've remained comfy through it all. The leggings are thick without hindering mobility, and they're compressive without digging into my stomach (something I can't stand). It also doesn't hurt that they have subtle side pockets large enough for my phone. Though I have plenty of black leggings in my wardrobe, I find myself reaching for these ones again and again.”

Commes Des Garçons Play x Converse Chuck Taylor Hidden Heart Low Top Sneakers

It's true: Converse never goes out of style. Conveniently, the sleek sneakers tend to last forever, too, so consider copping a pair of the Converse x Comme des Garçons Play Chuck 70s. They feature the typical silhouette of the brand’s low tops, plus they come in white or black. No matter which color you choose, this particular style also boasts the Comme des Garçons red heart and eyes logo on the side. You can snag these in women’s sizes 5 to 15 and men’s sizes 3 to 13.

“This is my go-to travel shoe because it's comfortable but also dressy enough that I can wear it throughout my trip when I want an elevated sneaker look,” travel editor Susmita Baral said.

Paka Men's Apu Lightweight Puffer

One of our most important tips for traveling in comfort? Dress to avoid freezing or overheating. With this lightweight men’s puffer from Paka, regulating your body temperature is easy. It’s so slim that it looks more like a zip-up hoodie than a puffer, but its hidden layers and insulation efficiently lock in warmth. Even if you choose not to wear it in transit, you can effortlessly pack it down into a bag or suitcase.

“This puffer jacket has the warmth of a parka but not the bulkiness, which makes it the perfect outerwear to bring while traveling,” writer Anna Popp said. “It can fit in a suitcase easily and it's also perfectly cozy and warm to wear on an airplane if you need to save extra space. I love that it looks nice while going out in the city on a snowy day, but that it’s also designed to be worn for sportier occasions like skiing, hiking, climbing, or running.”

J. McLaughlin Lowden Jeans

J.McLaughlin 

We know, we know — traveling in jeans might as well be a crime. We thought so, too, until we got our hands on J.McLaughlin’s Lowden jeans. The stretchy cotton denim feels more like a soft pair of leggings, and even after long-haul flights, we never felt restricted or uncomfortable in them. The jeans feature a wide-leg slim fit for added mobility and a high waist for comfort and confidence on and off the plane.

“I never thought I would be a jeans person for airplanes but after wearing these on a cross-country flight, I'm a big fan now,” said Popp. “These jeans are super stretchy and roomy, so if (and when) I get bloated while traveling, the high-waist fabric doesn't dig into my stomach or cause me any discomfort. They also look super cute and stylish and can be styled with many different outfits, so I’ve officially added these jeans to my travel wardrobe for every trip.”

Patagonia Women's Nano Puff Jacket

We’re adamant that Patagonia’s Nano Puff is the jacket every traveling woman needs in her wardrobe. It’s lightweight, packable, durable, stylish, warm, windproof, water-resistant — need we go on? Some of our favorite extras are a drawstring hemline to seal in heat and hidden internal pockets. On top of all its functional features, it also comes in sizes ranging from XXS to XXL and 11 colors including buckhorn green, chilled blue, and sandy melon.

“When it comes to packable jackets for women, this one from Patagonia is the best option for virtually any trip,” Popp said. “The design is simple but very functional, and I love being able to wear it for any season. In the winter, it's thin enough to layer for more warmth, but I can wear it as-is during summer camping trips. My outdoor-adventuring family all own Nano puff jackets and they still look as good as new, so I love that they’re built to last – possibly forever – in my opinion.”

Travel + Leisure / Sabrina Weiss

Rag & Bone Miramar Jogger

Rag & Bone

These joggers are so stylish, you’d never guess they’re also comfy as can be. Don’t let their denim appearance fool you — they’re actually made of soft cotton terry that provides stellar mobility and comfort. Over the legging look for travel? Throw these on instead, and pair them with a pair of boots or walking shoes and moto jacket for an effortlessly cool look you don’t even have to change out of once you reach your destination.

“These Rag & Bone joggers are simply the best for travel,” editor-in-chief Jacqui Gifford said. “I call them ‘faux’ jeans; the fabric looks like it’s a regular old pair of denim, but surprise — they have the softness and ease of a pair of sweats. Ideal for a plane ride or even a long day out on a tour, these are the ultimate pants that blend function, form, and style.”

Forme Power Bra

In need of a comfy new sports bra to keep everything in place on your next journey? Our editors (and a certain blonde popstar) are all about the Forme Power Bra. It’s comfy, cute, compressive, and most impressively, designed to zap bad posture. The wide straps take pressure off your shoulders and back, while the comfortable fit promotes proper body alignment, quick recovery, and overall health. We even love all seven colors it comes in — especially rosé and ecru.

"As a bra-needer and someone who really shouldn't be traveling without one, I absolutely hate wearing something bulky while I fly,” associate photo editor Alessandra Amodio said. “My go-to is the Forme Power Bra. Not only is it incredibly comfortable and made of high-quality material, but it’s actually FDA-registered to correct posture and improve your body alignment. Now I fly comfortably and my neck, shoulders and back feel so much better. I just throw on a cute open button down, pair it with the Ergo Shorts or Sculpt+ Leggings , and look chic and put-together while traveling. (This is also what Taylor Swift wore in her Eras Tour rehearsals according to a photo from her Time Person of the Year profile — if it's good enough for Taylor, it's good enough for me.)”

Circus by Sam Edelman Zuri Strap Ballet Flat

Circus by Sam Edelman 

We love that ballet flats are back — and this strappy style demands to be worn. The low heel and soft interior make them a great, pain-free option for travel while cross straps, buckles, and tiny beaded bows keep things stylish. They come in 11 sizes including half sizes, and 15 unique colors and prints. We recommend the shades dark French macaroon, light wash, and the leopard-printed beige brown.

“Even though you’d think flats would always be a comfortable shoe option, it’s actually surprisingly difficult to find flats that don’t dig into your feet or make your toes all sweaty,” testing editor Jackie Cucco said. “I’ve tried so many pairs that seem comfortable at first, but end up being too rigid and irritating by the end of the day. This is the first pair I’ve found that is soft enough to wear all day long, either with or without socks or tights. They feel like slippers, and they come in more than a dozen colors to match any vibe.”

Black Diamond Notion Pants

Black Diamond

Whether you’re headed to the airport, the trails, or even the gym, the Black Diamond men’s Notion Pants are your best bet for comfort and mobility. Designed with an elastic waist, a drawstring cord, and a loose fit, these pants feel almost like wearing your favorite pair of sweatpants. However, their slim appearance complete with two hand pockets and two rear pockets make them dapper enough to wear to dinner, a show, or even the office. Grab them in a neutral hue like ash or tundra, or opt for a more eye-catching shade like raging sea or burnt Sienna.

“You don't have to be an Alex Honnold–level rock climber to love these super-soft pants,” news director Paul Brady said. “They're comfortable enough for long-haul flights, even in coach, but they've still got a crisp silhouette to keep you looking put-together.”

Lilly Pulitzer Seaview Top & Deri Palazzo Pant Linen Set

Lilly Pulitzer

You can’t go wrong with Lilly Pulitzer, especially when it comes to jetsetting. This breathable, lightweight linen set from the brand is just as soft and cozy as it is cute, so we recommend adding it to your travel wardrobe immediately. The classic, collared button-down is super versatile thanks to cuffable sleeves and a tieable bottom — plus you can turn it into a jacket or cover-up by layering it unbuttoned over literally any other outfit. Snag the ultra-flattering matching pants to complete the look.

“I think the most versatile item to pack on a warm-weather vacay is a white linen button down, and this roomy one from Lilly Pulitzer is good enough to also grab in other colors like spearmint and mulberry,” associate editorial director Morgan Ashley Parker said. “I’ve worn it unbuttoned over a swimsuit and then slipped on matching palazzo pants — with an irresistible elasticized waist — for dinner alfresco. I personally love the all-white combo for warmer climates but the New Yorker in me would also recommend grabbing the coordinating onyx x onyx set if you can catch it in stock.”

Spanx AirEssentials Wide Leg Pant

There are few things softer than Spanx Air Essentials’ Wide Leg Pants. They feel similar to the brand's sleek and smoothing leggings and shapewear, but they have a relaxed fit rather than a super compressive one. While the pants could certainly be worn as loungewear, they’re also fashionable enough to wear to the airport, a coffee shop, or on an errand run. Though they fit and even look a bit like sweatpants, figure-enhancing contouring on the rear differentiates them from your typical comfy clothing.

“It’s impossible to find a better material than Spanx AirEssentials ,” Parker said. “All pieces feel silky to the touch, hefty enough for a chilly plane cabin, and pretty much impossible to wrinkle. I’m super into wide-leg styles — and need this exact petite option for my 5' 3" frame — and these pants are pretty much a given on my long flights nowadays. Personally, I love the olive-y palm color as an alternative to black or navy, so my only real choice is whether to match them with a crew neck or a sleek half zip instead.”

Pitusa Pima Abaya

If your ideal wardrobe staple is a do-it-all piece, look no further than Pitusa’s Pima Abaya. The cozy caftan is perfect for everything from international flights to pool days to bedtime. That’s thanks to impossibly soft cotton construction, oversized sleeves, and an airy, relaxed fit. There are no buttons, snaps, or drawstrings on this piece, so you’ll never have to worry about uncomfortable digging or fussing with it in order for it to fit right. You can customize your fit upon buying, though, and you can even choose from 15 colors.

“I joke about my ideal wardrobe consisting of a caftan in every color and this floor-length maxi fits perfectly into that vibe,” Parker said. “It can serve as a dress, cover-up, nightgown — pretty much anything, all day, every day in a tropical climate. The lightweight pima cotton is incredibly soft, too, and it comes in petite, standard, and tall options to reduce tailoring needs. I like this exact one because it’s not so sheer that I wouldn’t wear it out to dinner or on the plane but if you’re looking for more of a peekaboo style, you can get the same cut in a burnout fabric instead.”

Mar Soreli Ginger Mary Jane

Mar Soreli 

Looking to travel in comfort without sacrificing style? Check out the Ginger Mary Janes by Mar Soreli. Everything from the insole to the strap is ultra-soft and cushioned, plus the buckle and strap are easy to tighten and loosen for a custom fit — or for quickly taking on and off at TSA. They’re even soft to the touch thanks to velvet uppers, and they’re versatile enough to wear with leggings, skirts, dresses, and jeans.

“If you’re someone who wishes slippers were appropriate outdoor shoes, these ballet flats are the next best thing,” Parker said. “The velvet is so cozy but still looks great with anything from plane leggings to a nicer skirt on a night out, with or without socks or tights. And, if you do want to wear them through security (and don’t have TSA PreCheck®), each strap actually has a snap in addition to the buckle adjustment so they’re incredibly quick to slip on and off as needed.”

Allbirds Wool Runners

Allbirds shoes were basically made for travel, and the Men’s Wool Runners are some of our absolute favorites. The inside is actually lined with fine merino wool, making for soft and warm-yet-breathable wear no matter the time of the year. On top of that, the sneakers are equipped with reliable arch support and machine washable fabric. While we wouldn’t recommend them for running, they’re the perfect comfy shoes for pretty much everything else, including walking, hiking, and navigating the airport.

“My husband swears by these comfortable men's walking shoes so much that I ordered a pair of the women's version for myself,” senior editor Kayla Becker said. “And they really deliver. We both love the thick, foamy cushion that keeps our feet supported on long travel days, and they've stood up to everything from 20,000-step jaunts in Iceland to hiking Diamond Head in Hawaii.”

Aday Turn It Up Pants

Tapered trousers are office staples — so if you’re traveling for business, we suggest adding a pair or two of the Aday Turn It Up Pants to your wardrobe. They’re the goes-with-everything piece you’ve been looking for, and their soft, tailored stretch paired with an elastic waistband makes them comfy enough to catch a flight in. The ankle-length pants have a pocket at each hip and are available in a dozen colors.

“As soon as I found these sleek, wrinkle-free travel pants, they became a permanent part of my travel uniform (and I've even written about how all the travel editors I know have them ),” Becker said. “They're not only super comfortable for long-haul flights (I just flew 14 hours in them and felt like I was wearing pajamas), but they also look put-together right off the plane, whether I'm headed to the office or a walking tour. I'd wear them literally anywhere.”

Saucony Endorphin Speed 4

If you’re the type of traveler that likes to workout on the road, Saucony’s Endorphin Speed 4 is the versatile sneaker for you. Not only is it an ideal comfy running shoe, but it’s also lightweight and sleek enough to wear for every other part of your journey, too. Whether you wear it on the plane or to sightsee once you arrive at your destination, you’ll always feel supported in the Speed 4. Choose from five eye-catching colorways and 15 sizes including half-sizes.

“I've been training for the London Marathon, and since I started wearing these sneakers, I haven't had a single ounce of pain in my feet, even on long runs,” senior editorial director Nina Ruggiero said. “They are extremely cushioned yet so lightweight. Even after the race is done, I imagine I might be wearing them on the long flight home to LA.”

Fundamental Coast Shorebreak Hoodie

Fundamental Coast

To make the most of the space in your suitcase, you’ll want to prioritize versatile pieces that can do it all. That’s why we love the Fundamental Coast Shorebreak Hoodie so much. It’s perfect for travel days and morning walks near your hotel, but it’s also elevated enough to wear to a cafe, museum, or shops around town. The pullover hoodie has a front pocket, drawstring hood, and slim fit for a more put-together appearance. Grab it in phantom black or storm, which both have a beachy, heathered texture.

“Fundamental Coast has perfected Southern California athleisure, especially for men, and my fiancé lives in the brand's hoodies, shorts, vests, and polos,” Ruggiero said. “The Shorebreak hoodie is especially soft and sleek and works well whether we're out doing something active or going to brunch at a new spot in our beachy LA neighborhood.”

Vuori Cove Funnel Neck Tank

Vuori 

This high-necked tank top is so stylish, you’d never guess it’s also comfy enough for exercise, stretching out on a plane, or even napping. Crafted with a soft and stretchy rayon-elastane fabric blend, this top never digs into the skin or feels uncomfortably tight around the neck. While it’s not quite cropped, it’s not too long, either, so it’s likely to complement a variety of bodies and ensembles.

“This super-soft rib knit tank is my go-to running top, but the high neck also gives it some style (in addition to protecting my most sensitive areas from the sun),” Ruggiero said. “I have it in multiple colors, and I've definitely worn the black and tan ones out with friends at night, too.”

Vuori Echo Insulated Vest

Vuori  

A reliable vest is essential for travelers — it locks in warmth without causing you to overheat, and it couldn’t be easier to zip on and off. We’re big fans of this one from Vuori for its insulation, water resistance, and easy cleaning. It has zip pockets for your hands or small items, and a subtle collar keeps heat from escaping while allowing your neck total range of motion, irritation-free. To top it off, the vest comes in two stylish shades.

“This lightweight but warm insulated vest has quickly become one of my fiancé's favorite items of clothing,” Ruggiero said. “He wears it on dog walks, weekends, and travel days — it even has pockets.”

Reef Men's Swellsole Cutback Sneaker

It’s no secret that Reef is one of the most trusted rugged shoe brands around, so when it released boat shoes, we were intrigued. It turns out Reef’s boat shoes are just as comfy and long-lasting as the sandals we know and love. The men’s Swellsole Cutback Sneakers are the perfect fusion of classic boat shoes and cushioned sneakers, and they’re perfect for beachy vacations. Wear them from the dock straight to dinner — then keep them on for a busy night of exploring the boardwalk.

“I always thought of Reef for flip-flops, but since my fiancé found their hybrid boat shoes/sneakers, he's bought them in at least three colors,” Ruggiero said. “They're supportive thanks to memory foam, and can be dressed up or down.”

Public Rec All Day Pants

Odds are, you’ve seen these popular pants everywhere from the office to the coffee shop to the airport. That’s because their straight-leg fit and stretchy nylon-spandex fabric move with you rather than tightly confining your waist and legs like other styles. But don’t let their uber-soft texture fool you — these pants are still equipped with two front pockets, two faux back pockets, belt loops, and a zipper fly, so you’ll look and feel just as sophisticated as you are comfortable when you wear these.

“The slacks feel almost like loungewear thanks to their soft nylon-spandex blend,” editor Taylor Fox said. “They're the perfect balance of comfort and style for long flights where you don't want to feel cramped into tight pants, but want to still look put-together when you land. They can also be dressed up or dressed down for added versatility no matter what you have on the agenda.”

ManMade Boxers and T-shirt Bundle

ManMade Brand

One can never have too many basics, and we love this three-piece pack from ManMade. Each set comes with two pairs of black boxer briefs and one white T-shirt. Made of high-quality modal, spandex, and Pima cotton, the briefs and tee are guaranteed to remain soft, breathable, moisture-wicking, and anti-chafing through everything — even long-haul flights and airport sprints. To ensure your comfort, the bundle comes in six sizes ranging from small to 3XL.

“My husband packs about a dozen pairs of boxers and undershirts for a weeklong trip and his absolute favorites come from ManMade,” Fox said. “They're lightweight and breathable with a buttery soft material that doesn't add a bulky layer under clothing. All of their items contain the perfect amount of stretch as well without allowing the clothing to ride up or bunch in uncomfortable places whether he's hiking, riding his bike, or preparing for a long flight.”

The Mate Organic Waffle Knit Joggers

There’s something so luxurious about a good waffle weave. Designed with a relaxed fit and buttery soft texture, these Organic Waffle Knit Joggers by Mate are no exception. They’re made of 100 percent organic cotton, crafted with elastic at the waist and ankles, and equipped with one pocket on the back right side. The cozy joggers come in four neutral colors (jet black, bone, lilac, and bark) and five sizes. You can also drop the matching Organic Waffle Long Sleeve Shirt in your cart to complete the look.

“If I could replace all of my joggers with these comfortable, waffle-knit pants I would,” writer Ali Domrongchai said. “They have the perfect amount of stretch that lends itself well to long travel days, and thanks to its textured design, they not only feel good, but look good, too. In fact, since I've been wearing these cozy knit joggers, a few of my friends have snagged a pair as well because of how much I rave about them.”

Tips for Buying Comfortable Travel Clothes

Consider the material.

When traveling, it’s important to choose clothing that’s as comfortable and low-maintenance as possible. That said, we recommend clothes made of soft, sweat-wicking, and breathable fabrics such as cotton, polyester, linen, or wool. It’s also wise to opt for wrinkle-resistant materials like nylon and spandex to keep you looking fresh and put-together.

Look for travel features

Though it may feel unnecessary, we guarantee you’ll end up thanking yourself for buying pants, dresses, and bags with lots of extra pockets. Additionally, temperature-regulating clothes can come in pretty handy when you’re on the road — so consider adding clothing with cooling capabilities (or just clothes made of linen, nylon, or polyester) to your travel wardrobe.

The most breathable clothing is made of materials like cotton, linen, nylon, polyester, merino wool, and silk. Though fabrics like spandex, fleece, and denim have plenty of benefits, they’re not quite as breathable.

Generally soft, stretchy, and loose-fitting clothing is best for travel, as it’ll keep you comfy and won’t feel restrictive on long flights or drives. Some people may also opt for compressive clothing, like leggings or compression socks, which helps promote circulation on long travel days. You may also want to choose clothing you know to be breathable so you don’t overheat.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin collaborated with other members of the T+L team to conclude which clothing that we’ve personally used is the most comfortable for travel days. Hillary travels by plane and car several times a year and is obsessed with soft and slouchy pieces to keep her comfy on her journeys.

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The best travel clothes | guide to high-performance & fashionable travel clothing.

We talk about our favorite travel clothing and help you find the perfect travel-friendly clothes to keep you comfortable on the road.

I’ve been a nerd about travel clothes since my first trip to Europe back in 2006—now I have a closet full of travel pants and shirts and jackets (you get the idea). It’s been refreshing to watch travel clothing evolve from hideous outdoorsy gear to stylish clothing made from high-tech fabrics.

In this guide, I’ve gathered some of the most popular travel clothing brands to help you find the best travel clothing so you can stay fashionable and comfortable while traveling.

The Current State Of Travel Clothes

In the old days, travel clothing used to look like this…

But now travel clothing looks like this!

So what’s the deal with travel clothes these days?

I’d argue that the “travel clothing” market hasn’t changed much but the “performance clothing” market is actually what’s pushing the category forward—so these days, I consider travel clothing and performance clothing essentially the same thing.

And it makes sense because many of these new high-performance fabrics offer a ton of benefits that complement both everyday wear and travel.

Even mega-brands like Levis, Gap, Dockers, Lululemon, and Uniqlo are starting to offer fashionable “travel-friendly” or “performance” clothing but small niche brands are pushing the boundaries (which I’ll cover later in this article).

The Good Things About Travel Clothing

Travel clothes are finally being designed to be fashionable and stylish so you can easily wear them in Paris, Milan, or New York without looking out of place.

My #1 travel clothing rule is that I’ll never wear any “travel clothing” that I wouldn’t wear in my everyday life.

Second, high-tech clothes continue to evolve because more companies are developing better fabrics and competition is driving innovation.

The Bad Things About Travel Clothing

Unfortunately, high-tech travel clothing tends to be expensive.

First, many of the fabrics used are high-end so the raw materials are expensive. Second, a majority of travel clothing is made by small companies so they can’t mass produce their products—which pushes prices higher.

Another negative thing about travel clothing is that there are many options for men but fewer for women. This is probably because guys tend to stick to very basic items and they nerd out on “high-tech fabrics more than women.

So what can you expect to pay for travel clothes?

• Nice merino wool socks will be $10-$20/pair
• A pair of travel pants will range from $70-$180+
• A wool shirt will be $50-$100+

Do You NEED Travel Clothing?

Do you really “need” to shell out your hard-earned cash for these high-end garments?

I’ll be the first to say that you certainly don’t need clothes made out of technical fabrics when you travel. Many of these fabrics can make certain aspects of traveling easier and more comfortable… but they’re more of a “nice-to-have” than a “must-have.”

In my opinion, there are a few key pieces that I think deliver a ton of value and there are other items that are more optional — I’ll cover both throughout this article.

The Benefits of Travel Clothes & Performance Wear

What’s so great about travel clothing? Let’s take a look…

Durability & Multi-Day Wear

One of the main benefits of travel clothing is that you can wear them multiple times without having to wash them. This means you can pack fewer items so you can travel lighter.

Odor-Resistance

Many of the fabrics used in travel clothes have anti-odor properties. Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant but some synthetic materials are manufactured in a way to reduce odor.

Quick-Drying Abilities

If you plan on washing your clothes while you’re traveling it’s nice to have items that can be hand-washed and air-dried quickly (i.e. washing your socks and underwear in the sink). Quick-drying fabrics can also be beneficial if you get caught in the rain.

Wrinkle-Resistance

While it’s hard to completely prevent wrinkles when you’re living out of a suitcase, many materials have anti-wrinkle properties. In general, synthetic materials resist wrinkles better than natural fabrics but it depends on the fabric.

Lightweight & Packability

Performance fabric tends to be lightweight so it won’t weigh down your luggage as much — for example, a pair of tech pants will weigh half as much as a pair of jeans. Lightweight fabric also tends to dry quicker than something like cotton jeans which absorb water.

Moisture Wicking & Breathability

One of the most important factors in keeping comfortable is keeping dry. Moisture-wicking fabric helps pull sweat away from your skin and its breathability lets the moisture escape from the fabric.

Stretch and Comfort

Every fabric will have a different amount of stretch. Unsurprisingly, fabric with more stretch tends to be more comfortable since it allows you to move with less restriction.

But you’re always making a compromise when it comes to stretch because, in general, you sacrifice durability/water-repellency for stretchability.

Water Repellency

Certain fabrics are naturally water-repellent and others have chemical coatings which help keep water from soaking into the fabric. In my opinion, water repellency isn’t super high up on my “must-have” list (unless it’s a rain jacket) but it’s a nice bonus.

Note: The chemical water-resistant coatings aren’t permanent so they will become less effective the more the garment is washed.

High-Tech Performance Fabrics Explained

There are multiple different types of fabrics that travel clothing companies use to make their products. There is a lot of nuances and technical/marketing mumbo jumbo when it comes to each fabric but we’ll start with the three main fabric categories — natural fabrics, synthetic fabrics, and natural/synthetic blends.

Natural Fabrics

There are a handful of natural fabrics but the most common are merino wool and cotton.

Merino Wool

The best kind of natural fabric is fine merino wool because it has many natural benefits. Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant, soft, fairly durable, wicks moisture well, dries quickly, and works well in both hot and cold weather.

However, merino wool does have some downsides. First, it’s expensive so even a “cheap” merino wool t-shirt will cost around $50.

Second, thin wool has a tendency to develop holes much more quickly than a more robust fabric like cotton or synthetics.

And third, most wool can’t go in the dryer since heat will make it shrink so it does require a little extra care.

Cotton Should Be Avoided

Most travelers highly recommend avoiding cotton when it comes to travel clothing because cotton holds moisture and doesn’t dry quickly. For example, a cotton pair of socks will trap sweat which will cause odors, blisters, and sweaty feet.

That said, I’m not as militant when it comes to wearing cotton so I still wear cotton jeans and t-shirts. However, I still generally avoid cotton for socks and underwear.

Synthetic Fabrics

Things get a little more complicated when it comes to synthetic fabrics because there are dozens of different variations and each has different performance properties.

That said, synthetic fabrics are usually much cheaper to manufacture but some of the high-end technical fabrics are still expensive.

Synthetic fabrics are very durable, they can be highly water-repellent or even waterproof, many resist wrinkles, they dry very quickly, and they’re lightweight. Some synthetic materials also have a lot of flex so they’re comfortable to wear.

However, there are some negatives. First, synthetic fabrics can become smelly after one or two wearings. Some synthetic fabrics are treated with anti-odor chemicals so that helps.

Next, cheap synthetic fabrics have an ugly “synthetic sheen” and feel fake. Most of these cheap synthetics also make that “swish swish” sound when you walk. Advanced synthetic fabrics can look and feel very similar to natural fabrics but these fabrics are expensive — so you’ll have to pay if fashion is a concern.

Some cheap synthetics also don’t breathe well so they can get pretty balmy in the heat. That’s why you should look for “breathable” fabrics.

Another issue with synthetics is fabric flexibility. The most durable fabrics tend to not have very little flexibility. So if you’ll have to sacrifice a bit of durability for comfort in some instances.

Natural/Synthetic Blends

Travel clothing brands are starting to combine fine merino wool and synthetic fabric to give you the best of both worlds — performance and durability. I heard from someone in the wool industry that there is no performance loss as long as the blend includes at least 70% wool.

You’ll usually see blends in socks, underwear, and shirts.

The Best Travel Clothes and Recommended Travel Clothing Brands

Okay, okay… calm down. I’ve broken down each type of garment (socks, underwear, pants, shirts, etc.) into its own section.

I’ve tried giving specific recommendations when possible (and I’ll try my best to keep the recommendations up-to-date), but sometimes I can only point you towards companies that make tech-wear travel clothes.

I will also do my best to recommend options for all budgets since I know not everyone wants to drop $100 on a t-shirt.

Socks for Travel

In my opinion, a few nice pairs of socks (along with comfortable shoes) are the most important travel accessory. So, if you have a limited clothing budget, spend it on socks.

Boring, I know… but it will be your best bang for the buck

Fine merino wool socks are my favorite and preferred style of socks. Merino wool socks with a bit of synthetic material also work well because the synthetic fibers help the socks keep their shape/fit.

From my experience, 100% synthetic socks aren’t great but they’re not terrible.

Avoid cotton socks if you can.

Obviously, you’ll want to match your socks to the season — i.e. thin, no-show socks for the summer and longer/heavier socks for colder weather.

My Favorite Sock Brands:

• Smartwool : The most famous wool sock company. They offer just about every style. Check Amazon to see what’s available.
• Darn Tough Vermont : Darn Tough socks are made in the USA and they offer a lifetime warranty so that’s awesome. Check Amazon to see what’s available.
• Unbound Merino : This small company makes merino wool basics but we really dig their all-season ankle socks. They don’t contain as much wool as we’d like but this helps keep the cost down. Check them out at Unbound .
• Farm To Feet : This is another 100% USA company that makes a small but quality range of wool socks. Take a look at Amazon to see their offerings.
• Wigwam : Wigwam makes both merino wool and synthetic socks. While they’re not our favorite socks, their prices are pretty good so they’re worth checking out if you’re looking to save a little money. Check Amazon .

Travel Underwear

Ahh, yes. Travel underwear.

I’ve already written at length about the many benefits of travel underwear , but I’ll briefly cover them again below:

• Quick Drying: Wash them in the sink and they’ll be dry by morning.
• Moisture Wicking : This helps keep your skin dry.
• Breathable: This helps stop you from getting all sweaty down there.
• Odor Blocking: Stop the stink (or at least delay it)
• Comfortable: You don’t want to spend your time thinking about your uncomfortable underwear.

Synthetic Underwear

Most travel underwear is made from synthetic fabric which is designed to be soft, lightweight, and breathable. It isn’t the best at controlling odor since some synthetic material holds in odor but many brands have various manufacturing processes that help combat odor.

The most popular travel underwear is made by ExOfficio (you can read our Exofficio review but these guys essentially invented travel underwear). We tend to find the best prices on Amazon and REI .

Patagonia (i.e. everyone’s favorite outdoors brand) has a handful of nice underwear options for both men and women.

Another very popular option is Under Armour underwear . They get a ton of great reviews on Amazon , many people swear by them, and they’re sometimes cheaper than ExOfficio.

For budget travelers, Uniqlo has their Airism line of underwear which isn’t bad but I’m not a huge fan of their cuts. But they’re very affordable so they’re worth looking at.

If you’re on a tight budget, you should check out Target and discount stores like T.J. Maxx or Marshalls because you can find “athletic” underwear for decent prices.

 Merino Wool Underwear

Merino wool is actually a very solid choice for underwear — even in the summer. It’s soft, it’s lightweight, it breathes well, and it’s the best option for resisting odor. The two main downsides are the high prices and durability.

There are a few different brands that sell quality merino wool underwear:

• Allbirds : Allbirds (the company famous for their merino wool shoes) also makes quality underwear and socks for both men and women. Check them out at Allbirds .
• Wool & Prince: This is our current “go-to” brand when it comes to anything merino wool. They currently only offer men’s underwear. Check them out on Wool & Prince .
• Icebreaker: Another popular wool brand is Icebreaker and they make everything from underwear to coats. Browse their selection on Amazon to find a cut that fits your style.

The Best Travel Pants and Jeans For Men

The number of companies making travel-friendly pants and jeans has exploded over the past few years. It’s actually kind of overwhelming but I’ll help you sort it all out.

And don’t worry — all the pants we recommend are actually fashionable so you won’t be looking like a mountain climber while city hopping.

The main thing to remember is that each of the pants on this list has different performance properties so that’s something you’ll want to match the performance to your needs.

Bluffworks Ascender Chinos

Bluffworks, which makes a range of travel garments, recently released their new Ascender Chinos . These are made with lightweight high-performance fabric. The polyester twill fabric has a nice amount of stretch and it has a minimal amount of “synthetic sheen”. The fabric is lightweight so it breaths well, resists wrinkles, and has water-resistant properties.

It’s also nice that these come in both a regular and tailored fit. I own the tailored fit but it certainly isn’t constricting.

The Ascender Chinos have multiple security features like multiple secret zipper pockets to keep all your stuff safe (so you can throw away that terrible money belt).

The Ascender Chinos sell for $125 via Bluffworks

Bluffworks Departure Jeans

There are a lot of people who think jeans make a terrible choice when it comes to travel pants… and they kind of are (they take forever to dry, they’re heavy, and can be hot). But I love traveling in jeans.

Well, Bluffworks helped address many of the “negative” things about denim with their Departure Jeans. These are made from 68% Cotton, 22% COOLMAX Polyester, 9% Rayon, and 1% Spandex so they are super stretchy and much more lightweight than normal denim.

And they included two cleverly designed hidden pockets that don’t interfere with the normal pockets.

But I’ve saved the best for last… these look like normal jeans and they’re legit comfortable. I wear them even when I’m not traveling and that’s about as good an endorsement as I can give.

The Bluffworks Departure Travel Jeans retail for $98

Western Rise AT Slim Rivet Pants

Western Rise is a small performance apparel company from Telluride, Colorado that wanted to make clothing that performed well on the trails but still looked good in town. We think the AT Slim Rivet Pants do a really nice job of walking this balance.

The AT Slim Rivet Pants look very similar to standard five-pocket pants. The fabric is durable yet fairly lightweight and breathable (97% nylon, 3% spandex). Western Rise describes the fabric as “air-texturized fibers” so while it is nylon, the fabric has a cotton feel so there really isn’t any of that synthetic fabric sheen (but it does make a swishy noise).

The fabric also has a DWR coating to help repel water in case you get stuck in the rain or spill beer all over yourself. Additionally, there is a hidden zippered pocket for security.

As for the looks, these come in a slim but not skinny cut. They look like normal pants — which is a top priority. I wear my mine even when I’m not traveling.

The Western Rise AT Slim Rivet Pants retails for $128.

Outlier Slim Dungarees

Outlier designed their Slim Dungarees as a “five-pocket pant that we could travel the world in” and they’ve found their way on many of our trips to Europe. These have a great look and I think they’re some of the best-looking/most stylish travel pants. unfortunately, they’re also some of the most expensive so that’s something to keep in mind.

The Workcloth Doubleweave Canvas is both soft and lightweight yet very durable. The fabric has a nice amount of stretch and it dries very quickly. It also has a self-cleaning” NanoSphere® treatment that helps it repel water, coffee, wine, and dirt.

The Outlier Slim Dungarees sell for $198

Prana Brion Pants

PrAna is a well-established outdoorsy company so most of their stuff is better suited for things like hiking and rock climbing. That said, their Brion Pant  is one of their best-sellers thanks to its fairly modern cut and the fact that they look similar to jeans/chinos.

These are constructed from their durable and quick-drying ‘Zion’ fabric that’s actually stretchy (4-way stretch) so provides a good amount of movement. It’s also coated in a water-repellent (DWR) coating so it will withstand a little water.

So, these might not win any awards for fashion, they’re a solid choice at a solid price.

The  PrAna Brion Pant  retails for $79 via  PrAna .

Everlane Performance Chinos

Everlane recently released their Performance Chinos which I’m also really digging. I own a pair so I can attest that these are very comfortable and they’re probably the most stylish pants on this list.

That said, their Performance Chinos are made from 94% Cotton, 6% Elastane so these are the least “technical” pants on this list as well. But I still think these are a nice option if you’re more concerned about comfort than technical features.

The Everlane Performance Chinos cost $68 and come in four colors.

Ministry Of Supply Kinetic Dress Pants

If you’re looking for a formal/dressy look, but still want a ton of comfort, then look no further than Ministry of Supply Kinetic Pants . These have been described as “dress pants with the feel of sweatpants”.

The Kinetic Pants are made from Japanese Primeflex polyester that has a ton of stretch, resists wrinkles, wicks moisture, and repels water.

The Ministry of Supply Kinetic Pants sell for $145

Travel Pants & Jeans For Women

As we mentioned before, there is a lack of travel pants for women but we’ve tried to find some of the best of the limited choices that are available. One thing to note is that most women’s travel pants tend to focus more on comfort than “technical” fabrics.

Ministry of Supply

Of all the travel clothing brands, Ministry of Supply makes some of the most fashionable and best-performing clothes. Their stuff certainly isn’t cheap but the prices aren’t totally outrageous either.

Their flagship travel pants are their Slim Kinetic Pants which get rave reviews for looks, comfort, and performance. And they can be machine-washed and tumble-dried.

The Slim Kinetic Pants sell for $145.

Anatomie is a high-end women’s travel clothing company that’s one of the few brands which puts a heavy focus on fashion. Most of their travel-friendly pants are expensive at $225+/pair but they have a ton of different styles and cuts for just about every body type.

Check out Anatomie to see their travel pants and other travel garments (shirts, shorts, dresses, jackets, etc.).

Prana Travel Pants

PrAna is one of the few companies that make women’s pants made out of legit technical fabrics. Most of their stuff falls into the “ugly hiking pants” category but they have a few different styles of pants and jeans that are actually cute. And most of their pants are priced around $80 so they’re not crazy expensive.

Check PrAna to see all their styles.

Lululemon may be known for its yoga clothing but they’ve also branched out to more fashion-conscious athleisure wear that works fairly well as travel pants.

Check Lululemon to see the different styles they have available.

The Best Shirts For Travel

Alright, moving right along to shirts made from high-performance fabrics that actually look stylish.

Wool & Prince Tees

I practically live in t-shirts so a few solid-color tees are a staple of any travel wardrobe. While pricy, I love my Wool & Prince merino wool tees . These can be worn for multiple days and I don’t have to worry about washing them.

They have both 100% wool tees and 78% / 22% merino nylon blends. I recommend the blend since it’s cheaper, more durable, and requires less care when washing.

The Wool & Prince Tees sell from $68-$78

Bluffworks Meridian Dress Shirt

If you’re looking for a sharp-looking yet no-fuss button up then look at the Meridian Dress Shirt from Bluffworks. It’s made from 98% polyester and 2% spandex so it won’t wrinkle and the fabric will dry very quickly. The fabric can take a beating and there aren’t any special care instructions. We also like how it comes in both a classic and slim fit.

The Bluffworks Meridian Dress Shirt sells for $98

Bluffworks Piton Polo

I’ve only had my Bluffworks Piton Polo for about a month but I’m already seeing why this is an excellent travel shirt. First, it looks great and I love how it comes in a classic and slim fit. Next, the breathable pique knit is breathable and it only has a very slightly noticeable synthetic look even though it’s 100% polyester. And like all Bluffworks clothing, the fabric is tough, wrinkle-resistant, and doesn’t require any special care.

The Bluffworks Piton Polo sells for $68

Wool & Prince Polo

My Wool & Prince Polo always finds itself in my backpack. I love the cut and the quality is top-notch. It’s a nice “dressier” change from a t-shirt while still being casual. And you get all the benefits from merino wool fabric.

Wool & Prince offers has two types of polos — a 100% merino wool version and a 78% merino wool, 22% nylon blend. I own the blend version and I love it.

The Wool & Prince Polo sells for $78-$98.

Bluffworks Threshold Performance T-Shirt

You might be seeing a pattern here… but Bluffworks is back with their Threshold Performance T-Shirt. This ultra-lightweight t-shirt is made from a blend of 66% Polyester, 29% Lyocell, and 5% Elastane so it has a ton of stretch, wicks moisture well, and is very breathable. The fabric is thin (which is why it’s airy/breathable) so if you like a little more heft to your shirts then you might want to look elsewhere.

The Bluffworks Threshold Performance T-Shirt sells for $45

Wool & Prince Button-Ups

Wool & Price has a number of both short-sleeved and long-sleeve button-up shirts made from merino wool. I own one of their button-down oxford shirts and the fabric is very sturdy — I’d say it makes a nice choice for cooler weather as I can see it getting a little warm in the hot weather.

They also have a new wool/linen blend which will be more airy and breathable so these look great for warmer weather (I’ll be testing these once they get back in stock).

The Wool and Prince Button-Up Shirts sell for $98-$138

Outlier Merino T-Shirt

Outlier is another high-end brand that makes excellent products and one of my favorite items is their Ultrafine Merino T-shirt. It’s made from 17.5, 195gsm Merino Jersey Wool so the fabric is sturdy and drapes a bit better than many other merino t-shirts. And it comes in a lot of nice colors. But like all other Outlier products, the ultra-high-quality comes at a very high price.

The Outlier Ultrafine Merino T-shirt costs $110 each or three for $295.

Unbound Merino Wool T-Shirt

Unbound is another small company offering 100% ultra-fine 17.5 microns, 190g Merino wool shirts at affordable prices. I own a few of their shirts and while their shirts might not be quite as nice as other 100% merino shirts on our list, the price is a bit cheaper.

The Unbound Merino Wool T-Shirt sells for $65

Uniqlo Airism Shirts

When it comes to budget basics, it’s impossible to beat Uniqlo’s Airism line of shirts. We own a few different Airism items and they’re not terrible but they certainly aren’t nearly as nice or perform as well as the other items on this list — but they’re cheap.

Check Uniqlo to see what they have because always changing their stock.

Women’s Travel Shirts

Ok, here’s the deal… there aren’t a ton of “performance” shirts for women that aren’t ugly. But here are a few decent items we’ve found:

• Bluffworks Womens : Bluffworks has recently released a line of women’s travel clothing that looks very promising.
• Ministry of Supply is a great choice for high-performance clothing that still looks fashionable. And while their prices aren’t cheap, we consider them very reasonable. They also have nice dresses and other items.
• Unbound Merino has a black v-neck 100% merino shirt in a women’s cut for $65.
• Anatomie has a number of high-end cute tops made from travel-friendly fabrics but they’re expensive.
• Lululemon has some decent options but many of their items lean heavily into athleisure.

Cold Weather Travel Clothing

Most of the items on this list will work well in colder weather but you’ll want to pair them with other items to achieve maximum warmth. The key is layering—which basically means combining a few lighter layers to achieve warmth without the bulk.

Base Layers

A base layer is technically anything that is worn directly on your skin. Socks and underwear fall into this category but it also includes items like shirts, undershirts, and long underwear.

In the winter we’ll throw on long-sleeve merino wool or synthetic long underwear and this helps keep us warm and dry when we’re outside all day.

For the best selection, I recommend checking out REI as they carry all the major long underwear brands. If you’re trying to save a little money, check out Uniqlo’s  HeatTech  line of long underwear since it is cheap.

A mid-layer is anything that is worn between your base layer and your outer layer. Its main purpose is insulation and it can be a sweater, vest, down jacket, hoodie, or just about anything. Sometimes the mid-layer can act as an outer layer if the weather isn’t too cold.

When it comes to tech-wear, the main pieces are Merino wool sweaters/jackets, fleece jackets, and down (or a synthetic variation) jackets. The piece just needs to allow internal moisture (sweat) to evaporate through the fabric. It’s also nice if the piece is lightweight and durable.

Fleece is always a popular choice because it provides a good amount of warmth, durability, and breathability without being too bulky. There is also a variation of fleece called hard fleece — which is basically a fleece with a smoother and more durable exterior. Most hard fleece garments are also more water-resistant than normal fleece.

There are hundreds of fleece jackets available on the market at all price points, so we’d check out the selection at REI and buy whatever fits your budget.

Another popular choice is down jackets — although a lot of companies now use synthetic down ( Primaloft , Coreloft, etc.) and many people prefer synthetic material to natural down. Synthetic down is incredibly lightweight, compressible, breathable, and it retains warmth even when wet.

It is crazy how compressible natural and synthetic down jackets are — some can compress to the size of a shoe. When compared to a fleece jacket, a synthetic down jacket is more water-resistant , wind resistant, packable, and lighter. 

Nearly every outdoor brand makes lightweight down/synthetic down jackets. One of the most popular and fashionable brands is Patagonia — check out both Amazon and REI for the best selection. The  Patagonia Nano Puff jacket is probably the most popular lightweight puff jacket on the market so it’s no wonder it’s a favorite among experienced travelers (it’s what we use).

Outerwear is generally the final layer and it is what protects you from the elements (wind, rain, snow, etc.). The problem with outerwear is that it encompasses a huge range of garments that perform a huge range of functions. It can be anything from a simple waterproof jacket for summer showers, to large winter coats capable of withstanding a harsh Scandinavian winter.

I’ll start off by diving into  waterproof jackets since that is probably what most people are interested in learning about.

Most traditional waterproof jackets are called hard shells . These are 100% waterproof and they have that plastic-y feel and sound. If you want the ultimate protection from the elements, this is your choice.

However, being impermeable to the elements means that the material doesn’t breathe — this is less than ideal because it doesn’t allow your body’s sweat to evaporate. Basically, it traps moisture and makes you feel all clammy.

Some high-end hardshell jackets have breathable fabric, but even those aren’t as breathable as softshells (which we’ll talk about later).

Unsurprisingly, most waterproof jackets are made by outdoor companies, so trying to find a stylish one isn’t super easy. However, there are plenty of decent-looking options by Marmot, Patagonia, and The North Face.

However, in the summer I generally recommend that a traditional rain jacket is unnecessary — mainly because it doesn’t rain a lot and most jackets are too heavy for summer travel.

However, Ultralight Rain Jackets are super lightweight (they only weigh a few ounces) and they can be packed into a pocket, so they’re easy to carry around in a daypack. Ultralight rain jackets won’t have very good breathability, but you’ll only be wearing them in the rain, so it isn’t a huge issue.

The best ultralight rain jackets are the  Outdoor Research Helium II , Marmot Super Mica , and the  Montane Minimus  (they all weigh under 10 oz).

When it comes to breathability, it doesn’t get any better than a softshell jacket. Softshell jackets aren’t technically 100% waterproof, but they’re essentially waterproof. They’re well-suited for urban travel because they’re more comfortable than a hard shell and they’re more stylish.

Again, there are hundreds of softshell jackets, so I recommend visiting REI (click here for Men’s and Women’s ) to see which ones fit your budget and style preference.

Heavy Coats

If you’re traveling during the winter, you may consider bringing a heavy winter coat . In some instances, you may be completely comfortable by layering a base layer, a few mid-layers, and an outer layer. But, sometimes, you need a heavy coat — especially if you’re traveling to Northern or Eastern Europe in the dead of winter.

Puffy down coats provide an amazing warmth-to-weight ratio — which is always something to consider when traveling. Combine that down coat with a base layer and a warm mid-layer, and you’ll be staying toasty. Natural down is the warmest, but it becomes ineffective if it gets wet.

On the other hand, synthetic down isn’t quite as warm, but it still works if it gets wet and it dries quicker. Different coats have different amounts of water-repellant, so this is something to take into consideration.

For the best selection of insulated coats , I recommend checking out REI  simply because they have the best selection. Look for one that fits your personal style.

If you’re looking for the ultimate protection from the elements, you’ll want a standard waterproof, winter coat. A lot of coats have a 3-in-1 system that contains a waterproof outer shell and an interior insulated lining. Again, REI is a good place to start your search because they have the best selection.

More Travel Gear Recommendations from The Savvy Backpacker

Here are some more helpful “best of” travel gear guides that we think you’ll find helpful!

• Best Travel Backpacks
• Best Travel Backpacks for Women
• Best Carry-On Backpacks
• Best Travel Shoes
• Best Waterproof Boots for Men
• Best Waterproof Boots for Women
• Recent Posts
• New York Pass Review | Is It A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 20, 2024
• Paris Pass Review — A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 13, 2024
• The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024

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The Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Look good on the go while maximizing comfort and convenience

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

TripSavvy / Marcus Millan

A great pair of travel pants is a lot like a great friend: supportive without being restrictive and ready for any occasion. Look for breathable, moisture-wicking materials that won’t wrinkle in your suitcase or after hours on the airplane. A relaxed fit (or plenty of stretch if you opt for form-fitting leggings) is essential for freedom of movement on your adventures, while the ability to transition from day to evening wear with the right accessories is a major plus that cuts down on packing requirements. 

Finding pants that meet all these criteria can seem difficult, which is why our team of travel experts took on the task of testing 40 of the most popular options currently on the market. We wore each pair in multiple scenarios from air travel to gym workouts for two weeks, then scored them for fit, comfort, quality, durability, design, and value to choose our favorites. Our overall winner was the Stretch High-Rise Jogger from Lululemon, with its super soft material; loose, breathable fit; and useful pockets. Here are all the travel pants we loved.

Final Verdict

How we tested.

• What to Look for in Travel Pants

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, lululemon high-rise jogger.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5

Incredibly soft

Breathable and moisture-wicking 

Versatile drawstring waistband

Some may prefer a slimmer cut

The Lululemon Stretch High-Rise Jogger may well be the perfect travel pant, with a classic, loose-fitting silhouette that we found supremely comfortable. Although they’re meant to be full-length, the tapered ankle means they look good even if they come up a little shorter on tall women, while the Luxtreme fabric’s combination of softness and stretchiness offers a slightly more elevated aesthetic than one might expect from a pair of joggers. Designed for breathability, the moisture-wicking fabric also handles temperature changes well (as proved when we tested them on a journey from chilly San Francisco to balmy Hawaii). 

We loved the butter-soft waistband and the fact that while stretchy, these joggers also have a drawstring that you can cinch for a more tailored fit. The drawstring can be worn visibly or hidden inside for a more streamlined look. We also appreciated the extra-deep pockets, which held our phone securely even when sitting down. The pants also boast a hidden zipper pocket and card sleeve. Best of all, after multiple plane and car journeys (and three washes) the pants looked and felt brand new. Color choices are mostly muted and include kelly green, utility blue, and black. 

Sizes: 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 | Materials: Nylon, Lycra, elastane, polyester

TripSavvy / Elena Garcia

Best Lightweight

Outdoor voices relay wide leg pant.

Public Lands

Easy-on elasticated waistband

Great freedom of movement

Generous pockets

Sizing is not particularly accurate

The mid-rise Relay Wide Leg Pants from Outdoor Voices score sustainability points with their recycled polyester and spandex construction. We also found the combination to be incredibly comfortable, even on a journey from New York City to Florida that involved several different modes of transport and a significant temperature change. The pants are breathable and lightweight without feeling cheap, with a decent amount of stretch. We loved the branded, elasticated waistband—no more struggling with zippers, buttons, or drawstrings while rushing for a flight. 

The elasticity also gave us full freedom of movement while performing squats as part of our testing process. As a result, we feel the pants would be ideal for everything from all-day walking tours to hiking, biking, and working out on vacation. Spacious pockets are another highlight, although we noticed that anything weighty did tend to pull the pants down a bit. They come in black, oceanic (blue), and gravel (beige). We recommend sizing down for the best fit. 

Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL | Materials: Recycled polyester, spandex

TripSavvy / Phoebe Sklansky

Best for Work

Quince 100 percent european linen pants.

• Design 5 /5

Flattering, supportive shape

Wrinkle-resistant material

Elasticated for pull-on convenience

Multiple inseam lengths available in select colors only

Pockets are purely decorative

If you’re looking for pants that you can wear straight to a meeting after arriving at the airport, look no further than the Quince Ultra-Stretch Ponte Straight Leg Pants. They offer all the convenience of traditional travel pants, with an elasticated waistband for easy on and off and four-way-stretch fabric for complete freedom of movement. But, with their straight cut and thoughtful detailing (think belt loops and faux pockets on the front and back), they are also elegant enough for the boardroom. 

We love that these pants are wrinkle-resistant, so you don’t need to waste time looking for an iron in your hotel room. And finding the right size is easy with three inseam lengths to choose from. Our tester wears an XL and has a pear-shaped body type. She loved the pants’ fit, finding them comfortable yet supportive with good tummy control (without feeling like shapewear). The only downside? We wish there were even more sizes to choose from and that all inseam lengths were available in every colorway.  

Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL; 28-inch, 30-inch, 32-inch inseam | Materials: Rayon, nylon, spandex

Liverpool The Gia Glider Ankle Skinny Jean

Available in regular and tall lengths

Can be dressed up or down

Functioning pockets

Fit loosens slightly in between washes

Sometimes you have to pack light and one way to do that is to opt for pants that you can dress up or down for any occasion—like the Liverpool Los Angeles The Gia Gliders. Thicker and more supportive than leggings yet stretchier, softer, and more comfortable than regular jeans, these mid-rise jeggings come in two lengths and can be pulled on in seconds. We found them amazingly comfortable, even after full days in the office, running errands, or traveling across the city. 

A faux zipper, a working button, and belt loops add style points. And, although the front pockets are too small to be very useful, we really appreciated the functionality of the full-size back pockets. We found that the pants offered a great range of movement (although we wouldn’t necessarily recommend them for your next yoga session!), and loved that they were thick enough never to have to worry about see-through areas. We did find that they bagged slightly after a few days’ wear, but also that they returned to their original shape after washing. 

Sizes: 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16; regular, tall | Materials: Cotton, rayon, modal

Best With Pockets

Wayre jetsetter trouser.

Inclusive sizing

Incredibly versatile

Sustainable and ethically made

Not ideal for colder weather

If you prioritize pockets when looking for the perfect pair of pants, you’ll love the Wayre Jetsetter Trousers. They offer six functional pockets: four on the sides and back, each large enough for a phone or wallet; a card pocket; and a pickpocket-proof zippered pocket capable of accommodating a passport, cash, or keys. We also love the broad range of sizes offered, including standard and tall lengths. We loved the fit, finding them true to size with a waistband that wasn’t too tight or loose, but just right. 

The style is wide-legged, with a cropped length and high-rise waist. They’re flexible enough to be comfy on the plane or when exploring your destination, but also smart enough to dress up come evening. We feel this versatility helps to justify the pants’ admittedly high price tag. They are made of durable Aire-Flex fabric, which is breathable, spill- and odor-proof, wrinkle-proof, and rated for UPF 30+ sun protection. It’s also bluesign-certified for sustainability points, and available in six gorgeous colors from bronze to rose water. 

Sizes: 00, 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 | Materials: Aire-Flex (rPET)

TripSavvy / Julia Sayers

Most Comfortable

Vuori performance jogger.

• Design 4 /5

Unbelievably soft fabric

Completely unrestricted movement

Can be tumble dried 

Pockets aren’t particularly functional

Cropped style may not suit all tastes

Vuori Performance Joggers are made from DreamKnit fabric: a recycled polyester and elastane blend that’s impossibly soft and comfortable on long travel days. The pants are also breathable and moisture-wicking, with four-way stretch for full freedom of movement. The fit is slim yet relaxed, with a mid-rise waist and a tapered, cropped leg. We liked the adjustability of the drawstring waist and the fact that the fit remained consistent on every wear. Some of us that are tall weren't a big fan of the cropped style, though. 

The joggers have two side pockets, which are deep enough to hold your phone or wallet. However, we found that anything bulky looked a little odd due to the pants’ slightly clingy style. Nevertheless, we believe the durable, quality fabric makes them well worth their high-end price tag and appreciated that unlike many of the pants on this list, ythese ones can be tumble dried without shrinking, stretching, or pilling. Colors range from black camo and navy to a dusky pink marsala heather. 

Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL | Materials: Recycled polyester, elastane

TripSavvy / Sophie Mendel

Best Leggings

Abercrombie & fitch ypb studiosoft legging.

Abercrombie & Fitch

• Quality 4.5 /5

Flattering, sculpting design

No movement, even during high-impact activities

Relatively affordable

Lighter colors may show sweat when working out

The Abercrombie YPB StudioSoft 7/8 Length Leggings are made from a super soft, stretchy, and supportive nylon and elastane blend. We loved that they were like a second skin without making us feel like a stuffed sausage. The double-layer waistband compresses without being uncomfortable for a smoothing effect, while an ultra high-rise cut and sculpting, V-shaped back seaming help flatter your figure, whatever your body type. We felt that the leggings were pretty breathable, although some sweat did show through on the light color we tested. 

One highlight for us was that the leggings stayed firmly in place with no sagging, looseness, or riding up no matter what we wore them for—including a high-impact gym workout. With completely unimpeded movement, we could see them performing well in any travel scenario, from sightseeing to adventure tours. There’s even a hidden interior waistband pocket for cards or keys. The leggings are the most affordable on this list and come in three inseam lengths (short, regular, and long) and four colors (lilac, oat, onyx, and mineral blue). 

Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL; short, regular, long | Materials: Nylon, elastane

TripSavvy / Sophia Devito

Quince Ponte Straight Leg Pant

• Durability 4.5 /5

Naturally heat regulating

Retain quality after multiple washes

Ethically sourced and produced

Unstructured fit loosens throughout the day

These beautiful linen pants from Quince are ethically woven from 100 percent European flax, making them naturally hypoallergenic, breathable, and heat regulating. We found them so light and comfortable, it was easy to forget we were wearing pants at all. After trying them on, we would describe them as “just easy,” from putting them on to accessorizing them for different occasions. The linen is also very high quality, with no changes to its look or feel after several washes and enough thickness not to have to worry about visible underwear. 

The fit is true to size, with a streamlined, straight-leg aesthetic that we feel is very versatile. The cropped legs hit just above the ankle, making them practical for navigating less-than-pristine airport bathrooms and cute when paired with sneakers, sandals, and flip-flops. If we could make one change? We’d add a drawstring to the elasticated waist to counteract the fact that it does stretch a little with extended wear. Finally, the pants have three functioning pockets and come in nine attractive colors. 

Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL | Materials: European flax linen

TripSavvy / Jackie Napalan

Our overall favorite travel pants were the Stretch High-Rise Joggers from Lululemon, which we loved for their butter-soft comfort, stretch, and stylish appearance. For something a little more formal, choose Quince’s elegant yet eminently practical Ultra-Stretch Ponte Straight Leg Pants .

Each pair of pants considered for this article went through the same real-life testing process. First, we unboxed and visually inspected the pants to gain an overall impression of material and construction quality. We tested the design and function of features, including pockets, zippers, buttons, and drawstrings; then put the pants on to perform a series of squats. This gave us an idea of their fit, breathability, and stretch. 

Then, we wore each pair for at least four six-hour periods over two weeks. We wore them for traveling and everyday activities, including going to work, attending social events, and running errands. Finally, we washed the pants at least once according to the manufacturer’s care guidelines to see how well they held up. Each pair was scored from one to five for fit, comfort, quality, durability, design, and value, with overall scores informing our category winners.

What to Look For in Women's Travel Pants

Comfort and flexibility are key when it comes to travel pants, which is why many of our favorites are made from technical blends featuring materials like nylon, elastane, spandex, polyester, and Lycra. These blends are typically breathable and moisture-wicking, too, making them easily able to handle temperature changes and great for active vacation pursuits such as hiking or sightseeing tours. Natural materials like cotton and linen are also comfy and breathable, although you’ll have to pack carefully to avoid too many wrinkles. 

The travel pants that we tested for this article ranged in price from $22 to $228, but the most affordable pair that scored highly enough to be featured cost $70. This is a good illustration of the old adage, “you get what you pay for,” and if you want a pair of pants that tick all the boxes for comfort, versatility, and durability, then you should expect to pay somewhere around the $100 mark. Although this may seem expensive, consider that you’ll be able to wear the right pair of travel pants over and over again on your trip and hopefully for many years to come. 

Above all, travel pants should be comfortable. You want full freedom of movement so you can run for that bus, take on that hiking trail, or dance the night away at that sidewalk taverna. You also want to be able to sit comfortably for several hours while traveling without experiencing any uncomfortable pinching or compression. This either means choosing pants with a relaxed fit, or, if you prefer form-fitting leggings, opting for ones with super soft material, plenty of stretch, and a waistband that stays firmly in place without being too tight.

Style is very personal and there’s no right or wrong when it comes to travel pants (or any other clothing). Whatever style you go for, though, we recommend choosing one with plenty of versatility. That means pants that you can dress up with heels and a blazer for a night out or formal business meeting, for example, or pair with sneakers and a T-shirt for more casual adventures during the day. This way, you’ll cut down on the number of different pants you need to take and save extra space in your suitcase for other items. 

Although pockets aren’t necessarily essential if you’re the kind of person who always travels with a purse or backpack, they can be a very handy addition to your travel pants. After all, how much easier is it to whip your passport out of your pocket at security than having to rummage through your purse for the 99th time? Look for pockets that are deep enough to hold your valuables securely, even when you’re sitting down. The smartest travel pants may even have a zippered pocket or a hidden pocket in the waistband to dissuade pickpockets. 

Whether for women or for men , the best pair of travel pants is the one you feel most comfortable in. Generally speaking, opt for soft, stretchy fabrics or pants with a relaxed fit that won’t feel too restrictive after hours in one position on the airplane. Pockets are ideal for keeping essentials like your wallet, phone, or passport handy, while breathable, sweat-wicking materials are great if you’re headed somewhere warm. Finally, choosing pants that you can wear for different scenarios (from daytime sightseeing or hiking to dining out in the evening) will help you pack smarter and lighter. 

When it comes to the kind of casual pants listed in this article (leggings, joggers, lightweight travel pants), the best way to pack for wrinkle-free results is to fold the pants in half vertically, then roll them up tightly starting from the waistband. Bonus: This is also a great space saver, giving you more room in your suitcase for other clothes or souvenirs you pick up along the way. 

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert and a regular contributor of travel-related commerce articles. She’s visited more than 50 countries and tried countless pairs of travel pants, from lightweight technical pants for jungle expeditions to her favorite comfy leggings for adventures with her kids. This article is based on real-life tests carried out by members of TripSavvy’s expert travel team, as well as product descriptions and customer reviews.  

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RS Recommends: The Best Travel-Friendly Clothing for Your Next Trip

• By John Lonsdale

John Lonsdale

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

So you booked that (maybe a little) overpriced flight for the upcoming travel season. Now what? Start by checking off your packing list. While commuter gadgets like portable chargers and noise-cancelling headphones are no-brainers, those long travel days ahead of you can (almost) be a breeze, thanks to the best new travel-friendly clothing.

Here are a few of our tips on what to pack for your upcoming trek, and the best gear to wear on the plane — and pack in your luggage .

What Is the Best Travel-Friendly Clothing?

First and, most importantly, everything you’re wearing should feel comfortable. What that means for each person will differ, but things like fabric, fit and how packable the items are will pay off when you’re on a flight and commuting. Here’s everything you should think about when shopping for travel apparel and accessories.

Comfort, Fit and Fabric: Fabric made with a bit of stretch can help keep you comfortable on a long flight or commute. We prioritized clothing items that offer a little more room so you can easily move around in them, or feel comfortable if you’re sitting for hours at a time in a tiny plane seat. Some apparel even comes with moisture-wicking materials that can help you feel fresh even if you’re far from your destination.

Packability: This feature is an important one. If you’re not wearing your gear, how easy will it be to pack down and stow inside your carry-on, checked bag or backpack? We recommend trying to wear versatile pieces that can pack away easily, or that you can wear for multiple situations. Shoes are usually a tough item to pack, as they take up the most space, so think ahead about where you’re going, and the type of footwear you’ll need most.

Most importantly, with newly-updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention travel guidelines , it’s still essential for vaccinated (and unvaccinated) individuals to protect themselves and other travelers by wearing a mask this season.

“Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is required on planes, buses, trains and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and while indoors at U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations,” the CDC recommends.

Editor’s picks

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Below, we picked the best masks, jackets and our favorite apparel to make your next trip more convenient, comfortable and yes, a little more stylish too.

1. H_llo Friend Ultra Face Mask 1.0

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Say hello to the H_llo Friend Ultra Mask 1.0, which you literally won’t be able to fly without right now. This reusable mask comes in about 20 different styles and colors, from olive to charcoal. We love that it comes with a glasses wearer’s favorite feature: a moldable nose bridge, plus a five-layer filter. It’s available in XS, S, M, L and XL sizing, so you can order them for your entire family.

Buy H_llo Friend Ultra Mask 1.0 $20.93

2. Katin Trails Pants

Few travelers want to sit on a plane in uncomfortable, tight-fitting jeans anymore. The cozy Trails pants from Katin are our current favorite travel-friendly pants for flying. They’re simple and casual, yet still look modern and stylish at the same time. They’re more wearable than other pants thanks to cotton canvas and a bit of spandex, and include both a drawstring and deep pockets and button closures on the back. Best of all, you can wear them right off the plane directly into happy hour drinks.

Buy Katin Trails Pants $79

3. Johnston & Murphy Hayes Penny Loafers

One of the biggest, celeb-favorite footwear trends right now happens to be downright classic: the leather loafer. This pair from Johnston & Murphy retail for under $100, but offer a timeless, expensive-looking pair of shoes you can wear for travel and formal events alike. They’re minimal enough that they’re easy to pack in your suitcase, and we love how easy they are to slip off when going through airport security.

Going on a business trip? These take you from airplane cabin to conference room with ease.

Buy Johnston & Murphy Hayes Loafers $99.95

4. Vans Slip-On Core Classics

If you’re not looking for something dressy, go with a more casual pair of slip-on sneakers, like these Vans Classics. They go with everything, from slacks to denim, button-ups to graphic tees. And, just like the loafers above, they come in handy when your flight’s already boarding and you don’t have time to tie your kicks.

Buy Vans Slip-On Core Classics $54.95

5. Nike Everyday Plus Cushioned Training Crew Socks

Even though we bought them for working out, we consistently travel with these cushioned Nike socks on our feet. Sure, sock are easy to overlook, but donning a well-made pair is more important than you might think when you’re earning those miles. These are made with the Nike’s popular Dri-Fit technology, offer plenty of breathability, and wick away unwanted moisture. In other words, everything you want for a day where you’ll be on your feet all day.

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Buy Nike Everyday Socks $22 (6-pack)

6. Compression Socks

If you’re settling in for a long flight, you’ll want to wear compression socks instead, which can help promote circulation when you’ve been sitting for an extended period of time. That in turn, could help to relieve discomfort, cramping and fatigue.

As the name suggests, the best compression socks for travel work by gently “squeezing” around your feet and lower leg, help to rejuvenate blood flow in your legs to keep them fresh and alert. Many also swear by compression socks to help relieve symptoms that come from varicose veins and excess fluid retention.

This Comrad’s handy socks are sized for unisex wear and come in four different colors.

Buy Comrad Recycled Cotton Compression Socks $32

7. Everlane Unisex French Terry Crew Sweatshirt

We’re never leaving the house without putting on a soft, cozy crewneck sweatshirt first. This unisex cotton crewneck from Everlane comes in three different colors and seven different sizes. The company says that the more you wear it, the softer it’ll start to feel. And if there’s one thing you want when you’re in the air, it’s a soft layer to keep you warm when you can’t control the in-flight AC.

Buy Everlane Unisex French Terry Crew… $23

8. Flint & Tinder Pack Blazer

The best travel-friendly apparel is gear that’s extremely versatile and stylish. This Stretch Wool Blazer from Wills checks both those boxes, and, while it looks like your more sophisticated blazers and suits, it can conveniently pack down into your carry-on. We like its ample pockets, which helps when you need to carry and keep track of things like your passport, earbuds and wallet when you’re on your way to your gate. You’ll especially appreciate the lightweight viscose fabric on the inside and its breathable, stretchy wool blend to last you through all the seasonal changes. Wear it over a crewneck sweater or with your favorite tee. Either way, you’ll get your money’s worth with this one.

Buy Wills Stretch Wool Blazer $328

9. Lululemon Warp Light Packable Jacket

If you’re trying to pack light, you’ll want an extra layer that won’t take up a ton of space like this Lululemon Warp Light Packable Jacket. It folds down into its own pocket when you’re not wearing it, and its water-repellent finish is a must-have when you don’t have an umbrella with you. It’s designed with workouts in mind, but it’ll work just as well while traveling thanks to an easy-to-reach phone pocket and the four-way stretch fabric.

Buy Lululemon Warp Light Packable Jacket $148

10. Amazon Essential Full-Zip Hoodie

Nothing makes for an easier — and cozier — travel outfit than a hoodie. A zip-up hoodie like this one from Amazon’s in-house fashion line, keeps you warm on the flight and on your travels, while giving you two pockets for your phone, passport and other essentials you need close by.

The full-zip lets you easily remove your hoodie at the security line, while the durable cotton blend construction is fully machine-washable, making your post-trip laundry run a cinch. Choose from more than 30 colors and a host of sizes online.

Buy Amazon Essentials Full-Zip Hoodie $9.20

11. Monos Kyoto Pants

Monos is your one-stop shop for travel, with a selection of luggage, packing cubes and now, travel-friendly clothing. We love the brand’s Kyoto Pants because they’re extremely comfortable. Most importantly, they’re also really lightweight and easy to roll up in your pack.

Choose from multiple colors in clean, streamlined silhouettes and unisex sizing.

Buy Monos Kyoto Pants $100

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The Best Travel Pants for Men and Women

Megan Johnson

Megan is a Senior Editor, SEO for SmarterTravel Media.

Megan started with SmarterTravel Media’s Airfarewatchdog way back in 2008, moved over to FamilyVacationCritic, and finally SmarterTravel in 2021. Originally from Massachusetts, she has lived in Nova Scotia, London, and New York City. She has spent nearly every summer (or at least part of it) on Prince Edward Island. She has started to go out of her comfort zone while traveling- most recently exploring caves and boogie boarding on a FlowRider.

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Pants are probably the top choice for what to wear when traveling, over shorts and skirts. However, not all pants are created equal. 

Pants can come with a variety of problems: waistbands digging into your skin, fabric wrinkling, or not being able to wear them with any other outfits. You may find yourself wishing you could just wear sweatpants and call it a day. However, sweatpants don’t exactly have a reputation of being stylish, so,  if you want to travel and still have a little style, we’ve got you covered. 

There are four key elements that go into the best travel pants: comfort, fabric, style, and versatility. These options for men and women tick all the boxes, so you know you’re making a good investment. Below you’ll find categories for athleisure, activewear, and business casual, as well as many styles including plus-size options.

Table of Contents

Best athleisure travel pants, aday turn it up pant.

Comfort: 4/5. These tailored, slim-fit pants are available from size XS to XL and are comfortable for all shapes and sizes. Two side pockets make them ideal for a busy travel day and the elastic waistband adds to a high comfort level.

Fabric: 5/5. These pants are stretchy, pill-resistant, breathable, and thermo-regulating.

Style: 5/5. When paired with a button-down, these pants can be dressed up; when paired with a tee, they can be dressed down. The three-inch cuff at the hem adds a stylish detail, too.

Versatility: 5/5. These go straight from the plane to a casual dinner or meeting.

Lululemon ABC Pant Classic Warpstreme

Comfort: 4/5. A favorite among male travelers, Lululemon’s ABC line of pants is favored for comfort and stretch.

Fabric: 5/5. A patented fabric, Warpstreme provides a coveted four-way stretch. It is also machine washable and can be dried in the dryer on low.

Style: 5/5. These pants look like a classic work pant and can easily be worn in a casual setting or dressed up with a linen or cotton blazer.

Versatility: 4/5. My boyfriend literally lives in these … at the office, while traveling, on the golf course, or hanging out at a brewery, these are his go-tos. The combo of style and comfort can’t be beaten when looking for a travel pant for men. Running a marathon is just about the only thing he wouldn’t do in them.

Duluth Trading NoGA Namastash Slim Leg Pants

Comfort: 5/5. These ultimate travel pants from Duluth have not one, but six pockets to stow all of your day-of-travel essentials. The three-inch wide waistband (with interior drawstring) is tummy-flattening, and the fit is designed for both curvy and straight body shapes.

Fabric: 5/5. Duluth’s special NoGA fabric is silky and super stretchy. It has more than 850 five-star reviews, meaning that it must be that good. Fans of the fabric rave about its figure-flattering features and support. It also wicks moisture, has UPF 40 sun protection and is machine-washable.

Style: 3/5. While this pair of women’s travel pants is slightly more like a legging, the back pocket and slightly flared leg details dress ‘em up.

Versatility: 4/5. These pants are slightly more casual and could also be worn as activewear.

The 5 Best Plus-Size Clothing Brands for Travel

Women’s UA Motion Ankle Leggings

Comfort: 5/5. Not too tight and not too loose, these Motion Ankle Leggings make for a super comfortable trip. 

Fabric: 5/5. The ultra-soft double-knit fabric is breathable & comfortable, and the 4-way stretch material makes these pants your new go-to. 

Style: 4/5. There isn’t too much special about these leggings- they are just that- leggings, but they are definitely a step up from some basic leggings. 

Versatility: 4/5. Leggings can always be used for several different occasions, easily dressed down with a sweatshirt, but can quickly change into a nicer outfit with a dressier tunic and cute flats, heels, or boots. 

Alo ⅞ High-Waist Airlift Legging

Comfort: 5/5. Described as “second skin,” these high-waist leggings from Alo may just be the closest thing you’ll find to traveling with no pants on (or in pajamas at least). Super comfortable 

Fabric: 5/5. The double-layered waistband provides comfortable support without rolling down and the compression fabric fits tight to the body without being too constricting. 

Style: 4/5. Like the Motion Ankle leggings above, nothing is too unique about these leggings. They are a stylish and well-executed basic that will get you through travel days with ease.

Versatility: 4/5. Great for the plane, working out during your trip, or as a warm base layer to an outfit in colder climates.

Athleta Women’s Venice Jogger

Comfort: 5/5. Super soft fabric and a knit waistband give these pants the ultimate stamp of approval when it comes to comfort.

Fabric: 5/5. The Sculptek Light™ fabric is super light and stretchy. It’s also quick-drying, breathable, and wrinkle-resistant.

Style: 5/5. This pair of travel pants is semi-fitted with a tapered leg and has a mid-rise, sitting just below the natural waist. Four pockets (two secured front and two back) make accessing your essentials on travel days even easier.

Versatility: 5/5. These travel pants make up the perfect travel day uniform but can also be dressed up with a silk blouse and heels to go out on the town.

Patagonia Women’s Happy Hike Studio Pants

Comfort: 5/5. The pull-on jogger style of these pants couldn’t be more comfortable, especially with the knit waistband and hidden drawstring cord.

Fabric: 4/5. The lightweight fabric is ideal for warmer climates and water repellent with 50+ UPF.

Style: 5/5. These pants have four large pockets, ideal on travel days, and the elasticized cuffs allow you to adjust the length from capris to full length.

Versatility: 4/5. I personally love the jogger-style pants for versatility. You can hike, bike, or work out in these and keep them on for dinner or other casual activities.

The Ultimate Packing List

Public Rec All Day Every Day Pant

Comfort: 4/5. As Public Rec itself says of these pants , “a more stylish alternative to sweatpants, a more comfortable alternative to jeans.” With an elastic waistband and interior drawstring, you have all the comfort elements of the perfect travel pant for men.

Fabric: 4/5. This pair of travel pants have a spandex-nylon blend that is breathable and moisture-wicking.

Style: 4/5. Elements like a faux front fly and tapered bottoms give this pair of travel pants a smart finish.

Versatility: 5/5. Reviewers comment that they have ordered these pants in every color because they can’t wear them enough.

Best Activewear Travel Pants

Coalatree unisex slim fit trail head pants.

Comfort: 4/5. The elastic waistband and drawstring are super comfortable and the fabric is thicker than that of most hiking pants, but still stretches. These pants have a 4.5 star rating based on 1966 reviews.

Fabric: 4/5. These pants are waterproof, quick-drying, antimicrobial, and tear-resistant, and they have a four-way stretch.

Style: 4/5. The unisex style is flattering on most figures and has four handy-yet-stylish pockets.

Versatility: 4/5. While these pants don’t do double duty for something like a business dinner, they could pass for sit-down meals at a casual restaurant or nature lodge. Plus, you can wash them easily and will get multiple re-wears.

Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Pants

Comfort: 5/5. The soft and stretchy fabric of these pants make them perfect for travel. With a snap closure waistband, they don’t gape. They also feature two side-zip security pockets.

Fabric: 5/5. The nylon-elastane blend is soft and stretchy. Other fabric features include UPF 50 sun protection and water and stain repellency.

Style: 4/5. Featuring a mid-rise and straight leg, these pants have a feminine and flattering fit.

Versatility: 4/5. These convertible pants come in tons of neutral-colored options to go with any outdoorsy vacation. While these travel pants do have a sportier look, they can be dressed up.

Patagonia Men’s Quandary Pants

Comfort: 5/5. These pants have a curved waistband to reduce gapping and help them stay in place during activities.

Fabric: 5/5. They’re water repellent, lightweight, quick-drying, stretch-woven, sun protective with 40+ UPF—can the fabric be any better?

Style: 4/5. The slim-straight fit is designed to be stylish and comfortable, but reviewers note that the pants are best for lean to medium builds. Five pockets make this pair of pants even better on travel days for easy access to essentials.    

Versatility: 5/5. Great in all seasons, the Quandary Pants go from trail to town.

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Best Business Casual Travel Pants

Betabrand dress pant yoga pants.

Comfort: 5/5. These pants were made famous by a crowdfunded campaign and are known for their comfort. With a thicker waistband and super stretch material, reviewers rave about comfort.

Fabric: 5/5. The rayon-blend fabric is machine-washable, wrinkle-resistant, and stretchy.

Style: 4/5. The Dress Pant Yoga Pants come in a variety of cuts: boot-cut, straight-leg, skinny-leg, and cropped-leg to fit almost any body type.

Versatility: 4/5. These are the ultimate comfortable dress pant. They look better dressed up but are comfortable enough to be a staple in your travel day uniform.

Cotidie Harriet Trousers

Comfort: 4/5. With faux back pockets, front pockets, and a tailored leg, these trousers don’t look like leggings, but they sure are as comfortable as leggings are, thanks to the stretchy waistband and elastane-blend material.

Fabric: 4/5. These pants are made with StellaForm, a nylon and elastane blend that’s machine washable, stretchy, wrinkle-resisting, and moisture-wicking.

Style: 4/5. With a slim leg and fitted look, these chino-style work pants are stylish and practical for business travelers.

Versatility: 4/5. These are one of the dressier-looking pairs of travel pants on the list, so if you need to look like you’re at the top of your game while traveling, choose these.

The 8 Best Sunglasses for Travel

Bluffworks Ascender Chino Pants

Comfort: 4/5. While the waistband of these pants looks like a chino, it’s actually stretchy for a more comfortable fit. They are also designed to hold everything you would need in a travel day, including an anti-theft hidden money pocket and two designated phone pockets for the things that matter most.

Fabric: 4/5. Wrinkle-resistant, machine-washable, soft, and lightweight, these pants check all the boxes.

Style: 5/5. This pair of travel pants for men is the classic chino style, so if that’s the style of travel pants you’re looking for, these are it.

Versatility: 3/5. These are definitely more for dinners and the office, but equally comfortable as activewear.

Linksoul 5-Pocket Boardwalker Pant

Comfort: 4/5. These pants have five pockets, so you’ll have no shortage of options for stowing your travel day essentials. Reviewers love the stretchy fabric for comfort and a modern fit without being too tight.

Fabric: 4/5. Designed for golfers, these travel pants are breathable, lightweight, and quick-drying, made from a soft cotton-poly-spandex blend.

Style: 5/5. These pants are styled like more traditional pants.

Versatility: 4/5. Go from the plane straight to the green in these versatile travel pants.

Bluffworks AirlineTrevi Pant

Comfort: 5/5. These business casual pants are made from lightweight polyester with some stretch. When paired with the elastic waistband, they couldn’t be more comfortable if they tried.

Fabric: 5/5. The fabric is machine washable and provides odor and moisture-wicking control, and it doesn’t wrinkle.

Style: 5/5. The polished pants are designed to look like business casual chinos.

Versatility: 4/5. Whether you are traveling for business or just want a refined look, these pants are stylish, comfortable, and provide travelers with an extra perk: eight pockets (and three of them even have a zipper closure).

prAna Men’s Brion Pants

Comfort: 5/5. Stretchy and breathable, these pants are made with a spandex blend. Reviewers call them “outrageously comfortable.”

Fabric: 5/5. prAna’s sustainable, stretchy “ReZion” fabric is wrinkle-, water-, and stain-repellent, and is lightweight, quick-drying, and UV-protective.

Style: 5/5. The slim-fit-style pant is available with multiple inseam options, making them flattering on most body types. Plus, the five pockets keep all of your travel day essentials secure.

Versatility: 5/5. Whether you’re traveling, doing indoor climbing, or going out to dinner, these pants work.

Travel Shoes That Are Good for Your Feet

Vuori Ripstop Pant

Comfort: 4/5. These pants feature an elastic waistband, are stretchy, and have a draw cord for the perfect fit. The slimmer fit does mean a narrow leg, so size up for ultimate comfort.

Fabric: 5/5. The DuraTerra™ ripstop fabric made from 98% Organic Cotton, 2% Elastane features a two-way stretch

Style: 5/5. The midrise waist and slim fit make these a polished look, and they can be easily dressed up or down. 

Versatility: 5/5. The slim fit of these pants makes them ideal for whatever occasion comes your way – you can easily go from a flight to a business meeting in them, and smarten them up with a jacket or nice blouse and dressier shoes. 

Everlane 90’s Cheeky Jean

Comfort: 4/5. While many jeans may not be super comfortable for travel, these jeans from Everlane beg to differ. Once they are broken in, these jeans will be your go-to for comfort. 

Fabric: 4/5. Unlike most of the pants we have here, these jeans have no stretch to them, but their loose-fitting, lived in style still makes them super comfortable, despite no stretch. After washing, they do take a bit before they loosen up. 

Style: 5/5. These jeans are straight and super cute. Like any jeans, they are easily dressed down or up, with the right shoes, shirt, and accessories. 

Versatility: 5/5. Isn’t versatility the point of jeans? You can wear them for almost any occasion, and they work great for going from the airport to a meeting or dinner- just add a belt and change your shoes! 

Boston Proper Beyond the Travel Pant

Comfort: 5/5. You can never have too many dressy yoga pants like these travel pants from Boston Proper. They are super comfortable for travel and work. 

Fabric: 4/5 . Made with 95% nylon/5% spandex, these pants are stretchy, but may seem a bit flimsier than you’d like. However, they don’t wrinkle, making them perfect to pack in your suitcase. 

Style: 5/5. From the yoga studio, the airplane, to the office, the style of these travel pants cannot be beaten. Plus, they are available in three lengths. 

Versatility: 5/5. Whether you dress them up or down, these pants can fit the bill no matter what the occasion is. 

FAQ About Travel Pants

What are the best travel pants for long flights.

As most things, it depends on your circumstances. If you are just traveling for leisure, a basic legging will do the trick for women, and you can’t go wrong with the Women’s UA Motion Ankle Leggings . They are a typical legging, with a pocket to keep anything you want handy while traveling, they allow for movement, and are super breathable, making them perfect for any trip you take. For men, the Public Rec All Day Everyday pants are our pick. More stylish than sweatpants, but just as comfortable, you’ll be a happy traveler when you wear these! As far as something dressier goes, for guys we pick the Prana Brion Pant II . They are super comfortable with 5 convenient pockets, and can easily be dressed up when you need them to be. For Women, our top choice is the Cotidie Harriet Trousers they are insanely comfortable, yet super stylish. 

What are the most comfortable travel pants? 

This depends on your personal preference, but typically, the simpler, and the more stretch, the more comfortable they are going to be. Alo’s ⅞ High-Waist Airlift leggings are a basic legging, but are soft, stretchy, and are probably the closest you will come to wearing pajamas while you travel. Again, for men the Public Rec All Day Everyday are going to give you the most comfort while on the road. 

Should I wear shorts or pants on a plane?

It’s really a personal choice—but just keep in mind that it can get chilly on airplanes. You also may want to consider  your bare legs hitting up against the seat at the airport and on the plane, if you aren’t going to be able to shower shortly after you land, you may want to consider pants so you don’t have to worry about germs. 

What material is best for travel?

Again, this can boil down to personal preference, however, a lightweight, breathable, stretchy material is going to be best. Typically stretchier material won’t wrinkle, which is an added bonus on top of comfort.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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

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24 Travel Outfit Essentials for Women

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

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

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

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

Spanx AirEssentials Wide-Leg Pants

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

J. Crew Cashmere-Wool Travel Wrap

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

Girlfriend Collective Compressive Pocket Legging

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

Vuori Elevation Trouser in Midnight Heather

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

Zeagoo Coordinated Two Piece Linen Pants Set

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

Dr. Scholl's Time Off Platform Sneakers

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

Chico's Travelers Classic No Tummy Pants

Chico's Travelers collection is made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics in comfortable silhouettes. Thanks to a pull-on waist and front darts, these No Tummy Pants are flattering and always look put together. If you're looking for a more relaxed silhouette, there's also the wide-leg Hutton pants in black.

Spanx Women's AirEssentials Half-Zip Sweater

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

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

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

Spanx Core-Shaping Perfect Pant High-Rise Flare

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

JW PEI Aylin Canvas Cellphone Crossbody Bag

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

K. Carroll Accessories Taylor Tote

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

Hoka Women's Bondi 8 Sneakers

Hoka's sneakers are cult Oprah Daily office favorites and podiatrist-approved . Not only do they look good with just about everything, but the Bondi 8 sneakers also offer a full-length EVA midsole for the highest level of cushioning and arch support.

Everlane Organic Cotton Honeycomb Cardigan

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

Asutra Silk Eye Mask & Pillow

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

Gola x Anthropologie Hawk Sneakers

Supportive and chic! If you're looking for a pair of fabulous summer sneakers, you can stop right here. We love that these Gola x Anthropologie collaboration low-tops are ideal for the plane as well as exploring in style.

Frankie 4 Triple Layered-Support and Cushion Liberty Black Boots

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

Lands' End Wrinkle-Free Button-Down Shirt

A classic button-down is a travel essential that elevates any in-transit look. Lands' End's timeless button-down has all the details you need: a lightweight, wrinkle-resistant stretch fabric and a longer length for coverage. Luckily, you can cover all your bases with plenty of solid and striped options to choose from. Plus, it comes in an extended range of sizes from XXS to 3X.

State Bags Kane Double Pocket Backpack

A decent backpack for travel is essential, and this minimalist beauty from State Bags is the epitome of a good one. The most brilliant part about this seemingly simple bag is that it has two main zippered compartments—so you can keep your clothes, a pair of shoes, and your laptop separate and protected. We love the high-quality nylon that doesn't attract dirt and is easy to clean. It's sleek, simple, and logo-free, and of course, there's a trolly sleeve for easy transit.

Naturalizer Carla Contour+ Comfort Premium Leather Flats

At this point, Naturalizer may as well be synonymous with comfortable shoes. The 27 Edit Carla flats are crafted from beautiful leather and add instant polish to any outfit you're sporting at the airport or station. Plus, they offer the brand's signature Contour+ Comfort and added cushioning for all-day support.

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

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The Best Travel Clothes for Women Inspired by Celebrities Like Katie Holmes and Taylor Swift

Starting at just $12

Versatile Travel Dresses

Flowy pants and maxi skirts, travel tops and breezy blouses.

• Other Travel Clothes You’re Forgetting
• How to Pack

Why Trust PEOPLE?

People / Getty / Gwyneth Paltrow / Instagram

As a travel writer, my suitcase is nearly always half-packed. Long flights demand comfort, but new sights and cities demand style . To complicate matters, I’m a maximalist, so traditional travel advice to cram a small capsule wardrobe into a backpack never quite appeals to me, even if I have to fight the luggage scale when checking in for my flight.

Packing properly for any trip can be daunting, whether you’re throwing together a duffel for a girls’ weekend or filling a checked bag  for a multi-month jaunt all over Europe. Still, my adventures across multiple countries, climates, and time zones taught me to reach for certain staples — like comfortable walking shoes and a reliable crossbody purse — time and time again. While nailing down my perfect travel wardrobe, I turned to on-the-go celebrities like Taylor Swift and Emily Blunt for inspiration. 

A packing list comprised of versatile dresses, flowy pants, maxi skirts, and breezy shirts can go a long way — literally. Read on for the best celeb-inspired travel clothes for women to pack for your upcoming trips, as determined by shopper insights, professional style writers, celebrity research, and more.

Dresses give you plenty of bang for your buck when it comes to traveling. For one, they tend to be flexible compared to other clothing items: You can dress them up or down more effectively to target a specific dress code. Chic maxi dresses reigned supreme last summer, and Meghan Markle recently elevated  that trend in a silky high-neck maxi dress — stylish enough for a formal engagement but breezy enough for an afternoon in the sun.

Dresses of varying lengths also tend to be more conducive to layering. While summer may be “sundress season,” and we see celebs like Gwyneth Paltrow reaching for transitional midi styles in spring, the right travel dress can be an effective staple in your winter wardrobe, too. You can keep the style in your cold-weather repertoire by winterizing the look like Emily Ratajkowski . Opt for a darker colorway, chunky boots, and maybe a sweater. 

Shop any of these styles starting at just $30

The Drop Women’s Britt Tiered Maxi Tent Dress

This tiered maxi dress has an array of 1,900+ perfect five-star ratings on Amazon for its airiness — and rave reviews from multiple PEOPLE writers . It’s such a classic silhouette for all occasions, and it has the most coveted design detail on dresses: pockets. Shoppers do note that there’s little stretch, so consider your bust size when ordering. 

Sizes: XXS–5X | Materials: 100% Tencel Lyocell | Colors: 18

Editors Say

“I bought this maxi dress from The Drop when it was on sale, and I’m going to buy two more at full price — that’s how much I love it. In fact, I have to force myself not to wear it multiple times a week. It’s comfortable, lightweight, and flattering for my short, curvy body. It even has pockets and adjustable straps that can be crossed in the back. The best part, though? I don’t have to wear a bra!” — Kayla Kitts , shopping editor

Linen Roll Tab Dollman Midi Dress

Chico's

An ankle-skimming midi always comes in handy, and a linen fabric is an excellent choice for temperature regulation: cooling in warmer climates yet cozy in cooler ones. This relaxed, button-down frock comes in whimsical watermelon and khaki hues. It even has adjustable, oversized sleeves for added comfort.

Sizes: XS–XL | Materials: 100% linen | Colors: 2

Skinny Strap Seamless Mini Slip

Free People

Free People excels in lightweight, flattering, multi-use dresses. Most pieces in their slip category — like this itty-bitty seamless LBD — can be worn as an undergarment, dress, or top. (Just tuck it in!) Each slip truly compresses down to nothing, making it the ultimate space-saving garment.

Sizes: XS–XL | Materials: 92% nylon, 8% spandex | Colors: 3

Roxy Golden Dawn Dress

Everybody needs a comfortable floral sundress to throw on in warmer climates, especially after a sunburn. Whether you frequent the beach in your travels or just want something soft that wears in well over time, this Roxy pick is built for comfort.

Available Sizes: M, L | Materials: Viscose | Colors: 1

Tencel Jersey Tank Maxi Dress

This Quince pick has a soft, comfy stretch ideal for long days on your feet, and is even made of biodegradable fabric. With six colorways and a  lightweight and sleeveless silhouette, this dress almost guarantees plenty of use.

Sizes: XS–XL | Materials: Tencel, spandex | Colors: 6

People / Getty

The right flowy pants can make the ultimate base layer, whether you’re on a nine-hour flight or dressing to the nines. Loose, roomier pants have been all the rage this year, with celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence , Zendaya , and Emily Blunt all sporting various wide-leg styles.

Similarly, breezy white maxi skirts are majorly on trend right now (and always), stylist Liz Teich told PEOPLE. Just look at Katie Holmes stepping out in NYC. She exemplifies how airy styles can be  great for warmer weather, but still look polished. Plus, the lighter fabrics are literally lighter in your bag, so why not throw in another?

Tronjori High Waist Casual Wide Leg Palazzo Pants

This Amazon pick embodies the quintessential palazzo pant we’ve all bookmarked on Pinterest. The wide leg and high waist are timeless, and the pair comes in a whopping 31 different colorways, plus tall and petite variations.

Sizes: XS–XXL, short and long options | Materials: Polyester | Colors: 31

Hermoza Rachel Skirt Dress

While this one’s more of a splurge, its multifunctionality makes it a worthy all-in-one piece for any vacation. As a frequent traveler and Hawai’i resident, I was absolutely flabbergasted (and fascinated) when I found out this floral maxi skirt/dress hybrid is made of durable swimsuit material.  

Pair it with the matching swimsuit top for a striking two-piece set by the beach, wear it as a vibrant maxi dress to dinner, or style the skirt alone with a gauzy button-down and sandals for a jaunt through town. Of course, I love how convenient it is to wash and dry for travels, too.

Sizes: XS–L | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Colors: 1

Nashalyly Chiffon High-Waisted Pleated Skirt

This shopper-favorite maxi skirt has over 5,000 five-star ratings from Amazon customers, who note that you’ll want to size up for the best fit. Reviewers appreciate the skirt’s easy movement, comfortable elastic waist, and how many outfits they can build with it.

Sizes: S–3XL | Materials: Chiffon | Colors: 44

Daily Practice by Anthropologie Parachute Pants

Anthropologie

These pants are my personal go-to. I wear them to work in, to work out in, and to casual gatherings and nights out with friends. Most crucially, I wear them every single time I pass through an airport. They’re incredibly comfortable, lightweight (I tend to overheat on travel days), and adaptable, with plenty of pockets for easy ID and passport access. I’ve bought them in multiple colors, from neutrals to bolds.

Sizes: XXS–3X plus petite sizing | Materials: Nylon | Colors: 9

Getty Images

Even if you’re wearing the same pair of jeans day in, day out for the duration of your ten-day stint to Australia, Greece, or wherever you’re traveling, the right top can make a similar foundation feel like an entirely different look. First, you’ll want a collection of sleek, basic tanks and tops for ultimate versatility. Or perhaps a nautical, striped button down, ideally summoning visions of boat days and beachside barbecues. (Oh, and easy sun protection.) As Jessica Alba proves with white jeans and coordinating sneakers, the look is seasonal and sophisticated .

And is there anything better than wearing a delicate eyelet blouse on a hot summer day? A breezy blouse can serve as a dressy swimsuit cover-up at the beach. It can also keep your wardrobe work-friendly while on a Zoom meeting across time zones, or give a romantic vibe during date night. 

Wear it loose like Taylor Swift out for a summer walk, or tucked in like Jennifer Aniston at dinner in Paris. Either way, a casual blouse might just be a better companion on your vacation than your plus one.

Wild Fable Cap Sleeve Ruched Side Seam T-Shirt

This pullover top can be styled in a variety of ways, making it a must-have on any trip with limited packing space. The subtle side ruching and cap sleeve add some feminine detail that dress it up for more elevated occasions, but it’s definitely casual enough to rock on a daily basis. As another PEOPLE writer noted , the cap sleeve is an ideal middle ground between a tank and short sleeve — which might be why Jennifer Aniston and Taylor Swift are so fond of the style.

Sizes: XXS–4X | Materials: Recycled polyester, spandex | Colors: 4

H&M Top with Eyelet Embroidery Sleeves

A simple eyelet short-sleeve top can serve you on many occasions, whether jetting off on a day trip or trekking to your regular weekend brunch spot. At only $20, this adorable H&M puff-sleeve is just frothy enough to add a little je ne sais quoi , but has a  French simplicity at its core.

Sizes: XS–XXL | Materials: 100% cotton | Colors: 3

Gap Modern Mock Neck

Deal alert.

This Gap tank is up to 60 percent off in a range of neutral and stripe patterns for a limited time.

There’s never a bad time to stock up on flattering basics like this Gap tank. Available in regular, tall, and petite sizes, this Meghan Markle -esque mock-neck top has a straight silhouette and slim fit, and truly goes with everything .

Sizes: XXS–XXL, in regular, tall, and petite | Materials: 58% cotton, 39% modal, 3% spandex | Colors: 5

AE Perfect Button-Up Shirt

American Eagle

Right now, this American Eagle button-up is 60 percent off in all colors.

Okay, we’ll admit it: We never quite got over the coastal grandmother trend. And why should we? The whole point is that it’s timeless, classic, and elegant whether you’re going all-in on a preppy look or simply throwing on a striped button-down as a cover-up after the beach. This soft, effortless shirt has a slightly oversized fit for extra comfort.

Sizes: XXS–XXL | Materials: 100% cotton | Colors: 8

The Other Travel Clothes You’re Forgetting

Tops? Check. Flowy pants and skirts? Check. Dresses that you can wear out or treat as a cover-up? Practically the daily uniform. Still, there are a few other staples you’ll want to make sure you have on hand, too. It’s an oft-repeated cliché, but layering truly is key.

Levi’s Womens 501 Original Jean Shorts

These Levi’s shorts are currently 40 percent off at Amazon. 

Jean shorts are essential for casual days strolling through a city or impromptu meetups with friends. Throw them on over a sleek swimsuit or break them out in transitional weather. And this isn’t the only Levi’s denim we’re fond of — two of its most popular jeans hold space in our team’s closets, too.

Sizes: 23–39 | Materials: Denim | Colors: 44

AE Long Weekend Crewneck Sweater

This American Eagle Crewneck Sweater is 60 percent off for a limited time.

A layerable neutral sweater is another travel must-have, especially in that frigid airplane air conditioning. Similarly, for those long stretches away from home, an oversized sweater can also be a cuddly comfort for when you’re missing your own bed.

Sizes: XXS–L | Materials: Cotton | Colors: 1

How to Pack the Best Travel Clothes

When building your travel wardrobe, you’ll want to consider factors like trip duration, climate, and more. Do you want year-round items or would you rather commit to rotating your staples seasonally? Will you have access to laundry? (If not, you’ll want to opt for fabrics that wick away odor and sweat so you can get multiple wears out of each item.) Are there sights or situations that have etiquette requirements and dress codes requiring a certain amount of coverage? 

Some personal guidance as a travel expert: Many packing guides might swear by a neutral, minimalist capsule wardrobe for ultimate frequency of wear, but you shouldn’t be afraid to go maximalist either. If you pick comfortable, durable pieces, you’ll still get more use from those “singular” funky outfits than you expect — and your camera roll will thank you for choosing the pieces you actually love most. Similarly, accessories like bold jewelry or belts generally take up very little luggage real estate but go a long way in elevating any look. Might as well add some pizzazz to your Pisa pic, right?

And don’t forget the packing cubes and travel organizers to get the most space out of your carry-on suitcase , either.

Grace Smith is a fashion and travel writer who, as a frequent hotel reviewer, spends as much time as possible floating through various destinations. Long flights (and the resulting OOTDs) are very much her forte. She extensively combed through shopper reviews, expert commentary, and celebrity insights for the top travel clothing items. Looking at the most popular brands and keeping her own globe-trotting experience in mind, Grace curated this list of the best travel clothes for women to pack for all of your 2024 destinations.

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What to Wear on a Plane, According to Our Editors

By CNT Editors

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Figuring out what to wear on a plane can be stressful in the best of times. Do you dress for the climate you're coming from or going to? How many layers are really necessary? Depending on where you’re jetting off to it might mean that upon arrival you have to step off the plane in a more tailored look or you’re gearing up for comfort and relaxation . Luckily, we have a network of frequent fliers on staff who have mastered the airplane ensemble. We've talked through the most comfortable brands to wear on long travel days already, but this time, we tapped editors for their go-to outfits: the stretchy sweatpants, hoodies, and easy-to-slip-off shoes they consider staples at 30,000 feet. Below, find our favorite tops, pants, shoes, and accessories to simplify your next what to wear on a plane quandary.

Accessories

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

A tank and jeans is basically my uniform, especially on a travel day. These ribbed, neutral ones from Banana Republic go with everything—perfect for the end of a trip when you’re running low on bottoms—but they’re so rub-against-your-cheek soft you’ll grab for one every time you’re heading to the airport. I used to reach for a cotton tee, but honestly, if you’re flying long-haul, the tank wins for when the A/C fluctuates, or you land in a place with a totally different climate (so much breezier!).   —Megan Spurrell, senior editor

No matter how hot it might be outside, I always find myself packing a pair of sweatpants in my personal item for the flight. As a recommendation from a friend in high school who spent most of her life skating on ice, Roots was the end all be all for sweatsuit sets—and I couldn’t agree more. The soft cotton material adds a layer of warmth as well as a slight plushness to the uncomfortable airplane seat. —Paris Wilson, commerce producer

The core of my travel strategy, especially when it comes to packing and choosing outfits, is to automate as much as humanly possible. (Because I already have a shelf in my closet with a pre-packed Dopp kit , cords and chargers, packing cubes, and other travel gear, I rarely forget anything for a trip.) Lunya's Restore Travel Kit was a no-brainer for me: With a set of leggings, tank top, long-sleeve T-shirt, socks, and eye mask, it gives you a perfectly pulled-together-but-comfortable plane outfit; keep a blazer and a change of shoes when you land and you'll walk off with a proper day look. —Corina Quinn, former Traveler editor

As a millennial, the words “low-rise jeans” can be deeply triggering, but this pair from New York City–based brand Still Here has convinced me to make an exception to my high-waist only rule. They sit low on your hips, yes, but in a way that feels surprisingly natural. Maybe because there’s no waistband, which is what officially takes this pure cotton denim from purely cool to genuinely comfortable. I’ve always been an advocate of looking put together no matter how long the flight (no Uggs and sweats here), but it’s only because I’ve found pieces that deceive how easy they are to sleep in. These wide-leg jeans are the epitome of that—plus, they’ve got a photogenic silhouette that makes me turn to throughout the rest of my trip. — M.S.

I swear by Skims for comfortable loungewear and the Cotton Rib tank might just be my all-time favorite piece from the brand (seriously I own it in every color). While I like to bundle up in a hoodie during the flight, I’m always hot when I first get on the plane so I like to wear a tank top underneath. Skims’s cotton rib material is so soft and stretchy—I wear these tanks on the flight, during the day, and even as pajamas when I’m packing light. —Meaghan Kenny, associate commerce editor

Lululemon's Align leggings are buttery soft and the ones I always reach for when I'm traveling. They somehow get more comfortable the more you wear them, and the high waistband stays in place without feeling restricting. These are universally beloved for lighter workouts, but I think the black color is ideal for a flight, where you want to be comfortable but also want to be able to go from the plane straight to sightseeing when necessary. —Stephanie Wu, former Traveler editor

Especially on a long flight, I’m looking for comfort over everything—and this ultra-soft, fairly stretchy, supportive-enough cotton bra from Arq is supremely comfortable. It comes in a ton of colors and sizes (ranging from XS to 4X), feels like a sports bra without any of the tight compression, and means I’m not dealing with harsh or poking underwire mid-flight. I’m also a big fan of Arq’s cropped tank , if you want something more full coverage to layer under your plane uniform. —Meredith Carey, former travel bookings editor

If I'm not wearing leggings on a flight, I'm probably in this pair of joggers. They're made of a sporty, sweat-wicking material that's stretchy and smooth against my skin, and have that all-important elastic waistband with a drawstring, tapered ankle, and pockets. —Madison Flager, senior commerce editor

I used to shudder at the idea of ‘travel’ clothing (it always brought to mind clunky passport concealing pockets and old-school travel belts). That was until a family member bought me a pair of Eddie Bauer Travex pants , which I now call my plane pants. The line is made of stretch fabric that’s lightweight and moisture wicking, so they feel like super-breathable pajamas, but look totally sleek and come in a surprising array of styles. My first pair were super basic joggers , but I also now have a cool wide-leg pair that you’d never guess are from the same place my dad used to buy all our outdoor gear—and have all the hidden zippered pockets you could ever need. —Shannon McMahon, destinations editor

Sweatshirts are, by nature, comfortable, but there's something about this Knix quarter zip hoodie that just takes it to another level. The material is so soft and smooth—the cotton, modal, and spandex blend makes the fabric lightweight and thinner than a fleece sweatshirt, and the loose, boxy fit is just what I want while sitting for hours at a time. I also like that you can zip it all the way up for more coverage, or unzip to have the collar drape open. —M.F.

For me, getting dressed for a flight is often a struggle between opting for comfort with leggings and sweatpants or choosing "hard pants" if I need to look presentable upon arrival. But with the Turn It Up pant from Aday, I've found the perfect middle ground. Made from an 100 percent vegan blend of nylon and elastane that's both breathable and stretchy, these pants are seriously comfortable. My favorite part is probably the high waistband that's both elastic and flattering, but I also love the front pleats, tapered leg, and—crucial for traveling and packing—wrinkle resistance. I'm not exaggerating when I say I've worn these pants nearly everyday in lockdown and have yet to be sick of them. As a bonus, they come in four colors and are consciously produced in Aday's factory that's powered by 50 percent renewable energy. —Jessica Puckett, transportation editor

I love this cozy Essential Hoodie; it's clear it was made with travelers in mind. It comes with a built-in eye-mask, perfect for getting some sleep on a long flight, and a hidden pocket to tuck your phone into. It’s just the right amount of oversized and is buttery soft—you’ll feel like you’re wearing a blanket. —M.K.

It’s seen as taboo to wear pajamas to the airport, but I don’t think I’ve seen anyone mention slippers. The Ugg Tasman has all the comfort of a slipper with a thick EVA sole made to be worn inside or outside. They're easy to slip on if you're rushing out the door and easy to slip off in the TSA line. —P.W.

Whether I'm lugging my suitcase through the NYC subway or covering some serious ground browsing airport stores post-security, I often find myself on my feet for a large chunk of travel days. So, when I'm reaching for a travel shoe, 99 percent of the time you'll find me rocking my oh-so-comfy Skechers Ultra Flex 2.0 sneakers. Is it the most stylish look? Fine, no. But the memory foam insole is heaven and the shoes are so light on my feet that I feel like a baby gazelle. Plus, they're pre-laced and slip-on, making the TSA line a total breeze. —Lara Kramer, global associate director of audience development

These feel more like slippers than shoes, and function more like slippers when it comes to rolling through security. The fact that I can throw them in the washing machine after a trip means I can wear them on the plane without socks, making them all the more comfortable. —Noah Kaufman, former Traveler editor

When I know that I'm landing with a full itinerary waiting on me I gravitate towards my Stan Smiths.  They can make any outfit look sleek and help me to feel a little more put together. They have a permanent place in my airport wardrobe because no matter where I am, they are always comfortable and easy to clean. —P.W.

Years ago, Mara Hoffman told me in an interview that she always wears compression socks. The way they increase circulation is supposed to help with jet lag, puffiness, and just feeling better after a long journey. I’ve been secretly sliding Bombas on before every 5-hour-plus flight since. The black and white are subtle enough, and though you have to fight a bit to get them on, they really compress—I swear they’ve helped me arrive feeling fresher than I used to. — M.S.

My mom always travels with a pashmina, and so naturally I've gotten into the habit of bringing some sort of blanket scarf along too. It can be tough to find the right balance: Some of my warmest ones are also rather bulky, so much so that I dread toting them around for the rest of the trip. This Mongolian cashmere wrap from Qunce is my current favorite in-between. It's long enough to wrap around my neck or drape over my lap or shoulders as a blanket but doesn't take up my entire tote bag or backpack . —M.F.

This Metro Sling is an airport essential. Having a hands-free bag makes carrying my luggage and moving through security a breeze; it gives me easy access to my phone, AirPods, passport, lip balm, and any other small essentials I have on me. Thanks to the adjustable strap, I can wear it around my waist or across the chest or back. —M.K.

I love to bring fuzzy socks on airplanes, especially on red-eyes where I'm trying to get as comfortable as possible in order to sleep for a few hours. Ugg makes my favorite pair: They are incredibly soft and cozy, and don't shed fabric in the way some other pairs I've purchased do. Depending on the climate I'm coming from, I'll either wear them under my shoes to the airport, or throw them in my bag and pull them on over my ankle socks once I get on the plane.   —M.F.

What To Wear On Vacation: Smart Outfit Ideas From Our Fashion Team

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What to wear on vacation largely depends on where you’re headed, but as a general rule, look for comfortable, versatile and stylish items that pack down easily (and will stay wrinkle-free). We connected with deputy fashion editor (and in-house style expert) Kari Molvar to drill down into the specifics and find the best essentials to bring on your next trip. The list of vacation outfit ideas includes Quince’s breezy Cotton Smocked Midi Dress , a relaxed sundress with a flowy skirt, J.Crew’s soft Tropez Linen Shorts and Rothy’s slip-on-and-go Weekend Slide .

When packing for vacation, look for comfortable, versatile and stylish garments.

Whether you’re heading on a weekend getaway or a long trip to Europe, here’s our expert take on what to wear on your next vacation. For more inspiration, we also rounded up the most comfortable sandals for women and the best swimsuit brands to shop.

Best Folding Electric Bikes: Dynamic, Portable Rides For Small Spaces

The best daypacks of 2024, based on months and miles of testing, editor’s picks at a glance:, abercrombie & fitch tie maxi dress, tuckernuck finley flutter sleeve dress, quince 100% organic cotton tiered maxi skirt.

• AYR The Deep End Linen Shirt

Spanx AirEssentials Boat Neck Top

J.crew tropez linen short, andie the amalfi one piece.

• Rothy’s Weekend Slide

Cuyana Concertina Phone Bag

All the best vacation dresses, vibrant tie-waist maxi.

Abercrombie & Fitch

This bright maxi dress from Abercrombie & Fitch is comfortable and stylish, with short sleeves, a v-neckline and a functional tie-waist belt. The tiered skirt with side slits adds extra movement to the bottom.

Mini Dress With Fun, Oversized Sleeves

Crafted from 100% cotton, this easy shift dress is an excellent day-to-night option. It has oversized flutter sleeves, a relaxed fit and a slightly longer back hem. Wear it with comfortable flats during the day and accessorize with statement jewelry and strappy sandals when the sun goes down.

Comfortable, Light And Easy To Wear

Quince 100% organic cotton smocked midi dress.

For a versatile dress that can be worn for various occasions, you can’t go wrong with the Quice 100% Organic Cotton Smocked Midi Dress. This A-line style has a tiered poplin skirt and a smocked bodice for added comfort, and the midi length is easy to dress up or down. Choose from seven cheerful colors.

Summery Print With Tiered Skirt

Cupshe ruffle sleeveless dress.

This light and airy mini dress looks great for a day of sightseeing or thrown over a bathing suit after lounging at the pool. The tiered skirt is a flattering length, and the affordable price means you can stock up on a few different patterns. Keep in mind: Customers say the lighter hues are more transparent and work better as a cover-up.

Soft Material And Adjustable Straps

The drop women's britt tiered maxi tent dress.

This well-reviewed option is made from breathable and lightweight tencel lyocell, and its casual design is ideal for daytime wear. It has a slightly looser fit, thin straps and a midi length.

All The Best Vacation Tops

Stylish, long-sleeve option.

Don’t forget a long-sleeve tee for chilly nights—or whenever you want extra coverage. The boat neckline and soft, stretchy material make this number easy to throw on with jeans, shorts or skirts.

Great Base Layer For Any Outfit

Madewell supima rib '90s tank.

This tank top is a great base layer that’s long enough to be tucked into various bottoms. Although it’s designed to be fitted, some customers say it runs small, so you might want to size up.

Pairs With Anything In Your Wardrobe

Everlane the organic cotton slim crew tee.

A solid-colored t-shirt is a great basic that can be styled with almost anything, from maxi skirts to denim to shorts. This tee has a slim fit and ribbed neckline and comes in many neutral colors.

All The Best Vacation Button-Downs

Neutral colors and a relaxed fit.

Mate The Label

Mate The Label Organic Poplin Long Sleeve Button Down

A cotton button-down is a wardrobe staple that can be worn year-round and in many different climates. This iteration from Mate The Label—a female-founded brand that focuses on well-made basics—has a relaxed fit, button cuffs and a front chest pocket. Pair it with the matching cotton poplin pants for an easy, monochromatic travel outfit.

Versatile And Comfortable

Ayr the deep end in linen.

Cut from sturdy Irish linen, this popular button-down is perfectly oversized and can be worn on its own or layered over a tank top or t-shirt. Reviewers say it runs large, so consider sizing down one to two sizes depending on your preference.

All The Best Vacation Skirts

Cool, crisp and stylish.

This crisp cotton skirt looks (and feels) light and comfortable, no matter the temperature. The wide elastic waistband adds to the overall comfort, and side pockets allow you to stash small essentials like balm and keys.

Whimsical Design And Mini Length

H&m mini circle skirt.

If you’re looking for a bright and cheery mini skirt, consider this whimsical option from H&M. The high-waisted design is cut from breathable cotton and features citrus fruits on a cream background.

Quality Linen With A Modest Price Tag

Old navy high-waisted linen-blend maxi skirt.

Pair this pull-on linen skirt with tank tops, t-shirts and more structured linen options (like the matching sleeveless linen-blend top ) for a stylish vacation outfit. It hits right above the ankle, and the waist of the back is elasticized for added comfort.

Fun, Color-Block Design

Mango crochet mini skirt.

This color-blocked knee-length skirt is airy and bright, with an elastic waist that won’t hug the body too closely, which is helpful when traveling during the warmer months. Because the knitted design features several colors, pair this with a more neutral top and sandals.

All The Best Vacation Bottoms

High rise with front patch pockets, madewell the denim emmett short.

Denim shorts are a summer wardrobe staple, and for good reason. They’re durable, have multiple pockets and can be styled with various tops. This popular style from Madewell has a 10-inch rise, two patch front pockets and a hint of stretch.

Casual Style For Everyday Wear

Reformation

Reformation Fernando Wide Leg Linen Pant

These wide-leg linen pants are a travel essential. They can be worn over a swimsuit or a more formal blouse for dinner and drinks. If the length is too long, Reformation provides free alterations in-store, and this style is available in petite and plus sizing.

Soft Hand Feel And A Relaxed Fit

Packing a soft pair of shorts is a good idea, as they can be worn during a day of travel and later dressed up with leather sandals and bold jewelry. Style details include a smocked waist, high rise and flattering drape. For a monochromatic ensemble, pair these shorts with the matching long-sleeve shirt .

Wrinkle-Resistant And Tailored

Alo yoga high-speed mini skirt.

If you’re not afraid to show a little leg, this mini skirt is polished and tailored yet surprisingly comfortable. It’s made from a wrinkle-proof polyester blend, so even if it’s stuffed in your suitcase or overnight bag, it won’t require an iron. The built-in shorts and elasticized back waist are nice touches, too.

The Best Vacation Sweaters

Cozy, lightweight layer, quince lightweight cotton cashmere cardigan.

A lightweight cardigan can be a welcome layer when the temperatures fluctuate in your hotel room or on public transportation. This under $50 option balances comfort and style with its soft material, deep v-neck and ribbed hemline and cuffs.

Warm, Comfortable And Elegant

White + Warren

White + Warren Essential Cashmere Crewneck

The White + Warren Essential Cashmere Crewneck is another layer to consider for your next getaway. We love the wide range of vibrant summer colors, including Bright Tangerine and Pink Lemonade. (This pick also earned top marks from our tester in our review of the best cashmere sweaters .)

Textured Knit In A Cheerful Color

Mango short-sleeve polo neck jumper.

This short-sleeve polo is a fun option that adds a bright pop of color to your vacation wardrobe. It has a slightly cropped hemline and textured knit for visual interest.

All The Best Vacation Swimsuits

Flattering and supportive one-piece.

This one-piece swimsuit has a scoop neckline, adjustable straps, removable soft cups and compressive fabric that provides light support. There’s a wide range of sizes and colors, including several textured options that can add interest to your poolside look. Plus, it’s available in a long torso fit.

Classic Bikini With High-Waisted Bottoms

Cupshe twist front bathing suit.

If you prefer a more classic two-piece bikini, this under $40 swimsuit is an excellent choice. The top has a twist-front design with adjustable straps, and the bottoms are high-waisted and provide a good amount of coverage.

All The Best Vacation Cover-Ups

Textured fabric and elegant look.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Short-Sleeve Button-Front Midi Dress

Anthropologie’s Short-Sleeve Button-Front Midi Dress helps you look pulled together with minimal effort, if you’re just reading or lounging on the beach. Style details include a collar, front buttons and oversized cuffed sleeves.

Made From Airy, Crocheted Cotton

Madewell crochet cutaway cover-up midi dress.

This lightweight cotton cover-up has a mini length and cutaway armholes, allowing more of your swimsuit to be visible underneath. The crocheted fabric also allows for better air circulation on hot, humid days.

Flowy And Chic

Vitamin a playa maxi.

A longer-length cover-up provides sun protection and transitions well from the beach or pool to dinner. This option has an oversized fit, side pockets and an adjustable tie belt. Despite its longer length, the side slits and gauzy material allow plenty of airflow.

All The Best Vacation Shoes

Soft leather and a simple design, everlane the day glove.

Whether strolling around a new city or doing a walking tour with friends, bringing a comfortable pair of flats is a smart choice. Everlane’s Day Glove is cut from soft, flexible leather and has a cushioned insole for all-day support. The side vents also enhance the shoe’s breathability.

Machine Washable And Highly Breathable

Allbirds women’s tree runners.

If you’re looking for a versatile pair of walking shoes, you can’t go wrong with the Allbirds Tree Runners. The uppers are made from eucalyptus tree fibers (also called tencel lyocell), known for being light and breathable. What’s more, the shoes are machine washable and have a contoured midsole for superior comfort.

Contoured Footbed And Knit Straps

Rothy’s the weekend slide.

If you’re headed somewhere warm, don’t forget to pack a pair of slides to wear with shorts and sundresses. With two crisscrossing knit straps and a thick, contoured footbed, these sandals are stylish and comfortable for walking. Like Allbirds sneakers, this pick is entirely machine washable for easy cleaning.

Easy To Dress Up Or Down

Banana Republic

Banana Republic Molded Outsole Sandal

These cool sandals are available in two neutral colors and feature thick buckle straps and shiny gold hardware; the padded footbed adds to the cushioned feel. Reviewers say these sandals are well-made and instantly elevate any outfit.

All The Best Vacation Accessories

Folds down for easy packing, j.crew textured summer straw hat.

A straw hat can shield your eyes and face from the sun while making a style statement. The crocheted material allows for easy airflow, and the hat flattens and folds down when you need to pack it in your suitcase.

Classic Frames With Polarized Lenses

Ray-ban wayfarer oval sunglasses.

Ray-Ban’s Wayfarer sunglasses are a classic style that looks stylish with everything from bright sundresses to more tailored pants. The oval shape is a modern update to the more traditional square-shaped frames, and there are six colorways to choose from.

Stay Organized On The Go

When traveling, it’s a good idea to bring a small bag that allows you to go hands-free while sightseeing and exploring. Despite its small size (7.5 x 5 1.7 inches), this pick has three interior compartments for holding essential items like your phone, passport and wallet.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

The Forbes Vetted team has researched, written and published dozens of fashion stories , including roundups of the best summer dresses and best linen pants .

• This article was overseen by deputy editor (and in-house style expert) Kari Molvar , who holds a certificate in fashion styling from the Business of Fashion.
• Katherine Louie , the author of this piece, is a lifestyle editor with extensive experience covering fashion and lifestyle topics.
• This article is regularly updated to ensure all of the above brands and products continue to meet our criteria for the best summer dresses.

What Should I Wear On Vacation?

What you wear on vacation largely depends on where you’re headed and your personal style. Make sure to check the weather of your destination before you begin packing, and write out what you plan to wear so you can visualize each item and make changes to your list ahead of time. If you’re headed somewhere warm, pack a swimsuit, cover-up, sandals, sunglasses, and wardrobe basics like denim shorts, linen pants and several dresses. Focus on lightweight, breathable materials like cotton, linen and Tencel. If you’re traveling somewhere a bit colder, bring warm layers, an insulating jacket and cozy accessories like a hat, gloves and scarf.

What Is The Perfect Clothing For Traveling?

Anything soft, comfortable and stretchy is perfect for traveling. For example, loose-fitting separates like cotton joggers or wide-leg pants paired with a tee, tank or pullover are helpful. It’s also beneficial to wear clothing that’s machine washable and easy to layer, as the temperature can fluctuate in your hotel room or on public transportation. If you’re going to be flying, wear shoes that are easy to remove when you go through security and compression socks to help relieve aches and pains.

How Do You Look Chic On Vacation?

You can instantly elevate your vacation look with the right accessories. Pack a few pieces of jewelry that pair with different outfits, fun sunglasses and comfortable yet stylish shoes. If you’re traveling during the summer, the Banana Republic Molded Outsole Sandals are a great option, as these shoes have fashionable straps and shiny gold hardware. Still, the padded footbed adds to the overall comfort. J. Crew’s packable Summer Straw Hat , Ray-Ban’s classic Wayfarer Oval Sunglasses and Cuyana’s textured leather Phone Bag are all stylish accessories that can help you look chic and polished on your next getaway.

More Fashion Stories To Shop

• Best Summer Dresses
• Best Swimsuit Brands
• Best Linen Pants

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

The best compression socks for travelers

The right compression socks can help keep you comfortable whether you have to sit for hours on a plane or spend a long shift on your feet.

Spending a long time in one position, whether it's in an airplane seat with precious little legroom or glued to your desk, can cause incredible discomfort—but the right compression socks could help.  

Dr. Kristy Golden, DPM , a board-certified podiatric surgeon at Kaiser Permanente, says that she often tells her patients to wear compression socks when traveling because prolonged periods of sitting can slow down blood flow in the legs, increasing the risk of blood clots. Compression socks can help reduce the risk, she says, and can also “combat fatigue and leg discomfort” many travelers experience.

( Read what long flights do to our bodies, from blood clots to muscle soreness to digestion issues .)  

The best compression socks for most people, including the best compression socks for flying, will be knee-high and “should fit snugly but not be uncomfortably tight” with a slight, painless indentation at the top of the sock, Golden said.  

You should, however, speak with a health care professional before starting to wear compression socks, Golden says, especially if you have existing medical issues or if you're not sure if they're right for you. Some people might need more or less compression depending on their medical history.  

Our picks for the best travel compression socks

The best travel compression socks for 2024, best overall: bombas everyday compression socks.

Buy it now at   Bombas

Why we like it: Bombas Everyday Compression Socks are our pick for the best overall compression socks for travelers and the best compression socks for flying. They have a reputation for being comfortable and durable, with just the right amount of support for most travelers. They also come in a variety of patterns and colors, so most people can find a pair they love.  

These socks also have targeted support, with more support in the ankle and less in the calf. Some people find this a more comfortable way to get the benefits of compression socks without squeezing the entire leg. Bombas Everyday Compression socks also provide arch support, which can help prevent sore feet.  

Keep in mind: These socks should be washed on a gentle cycle to help them last longer.  

Product details: Strength:   15-20mmHg | Sizes:   small, medium, and large | Material: cotton polyester, elastane, and nylon  

Best budget compression socks: JaVie Lightweight Merino Wool Everyday Compression Socks

Buy it now on   Amazon

Why we like it: JaVie Lightweight Merino Wool Everyday Compression Socks are our favorite budget compression socks for travel. These thin, lightweight socks don’t take up much room in a suitcase. They are versatile enough to wear all year round. Plus, they’re comfortable in warm weather and thin enough that it’s possible to layer thicker socks on top in the winter.  

Because JaVie compression socks contain merino wool, they will also help resist odors. They come in various patterns and colors, so it’s easy to find a pair that matches almost any travel outfit.

Keep in mind:   Because these socks contain merino wool, some people may find them irritating. Additionally, the socks do not have any padding. This helps keep them light but may bother those who prefer cushioning in their socks.  

Product details: Strength |15-20mmHg | Sizes:   small, medium |   Material: 46 percent merino wool, 41 percent nylon, 13 percent spandex

Best zipper compression socks: Omega Walk Flex Zip

Buy it now at   Omega Walk

Why we like it: According to Golden, compression socks should fit snugly and shouldn't slide down while walking. Putting on snug compression socks may be difficult for some people, though—and travel compression socks with a zipper can help solve this problem.  

Omega Walk Flex Zip socks are our pick for the best zipper compression socks for travelers. The back of the zipper used in these socks is lined, which helps prevent irritation. These socks also have heel-to-toe cushioning, which many travelers find comfortable.  

Keep in mind:   Although these socks have a built-in skin guard to prevent irritation, some may not like the feel of the zipper. The zipper and cushioning also add weight to the socks.  

Product Details: Strength:   20-30 mmHg | Sizes:   small/medium, large/X-large/XX-large | Material:   mix of nylon and spandex

Best wide-calf compression socks for travel: Dr. Motion Athleisure Compression Socks  

Buy it now at   Dr. Motion

Why we like it: Our pick for the best wide-calf compression socks for travel are Dr. Motion’s Athleisure Compression Socks. Travelers come in all shapes and sizes, and travel compression socks need to come in all shapes and sizes, too. These travel compression socks have plenty of stretch so they shouldn’t feel tight on most people, even for those with wider calves.  

They’re also lightweight, so they won’t add a lot of bulk to your luggage. An added benefit is that they’re less expensive than many of the other best compression socks for travelers we’ve found.

Keep in mind:   These socks only come in an ombre pattern, which may not appeal to everyone. If that’s the case, check out other compression socks from Dr. Motion that have similar features.  

Product Details: Strength:   15-20 mmHg | Sizes:   2, 3, and 4 | Material: 96% nylon, 4% elastane

Best men’s compression socks for travel: Ostrichpillow Compression Socks

Why we like it:   Ostrichpillow makes innovative travel gear, including some of the best travel compression socks we’ve found. Ostrichpillow’s compression socks are our choice for the best men’s compression socks for travel.  

They’re made from silky, soft bamboo, which many travelers find comfortable and soothing, and they have a cushioned sole.

Keep in mind:   These compression socks come in a few colors but only one style. Those who don’t like the way these look will need to look elsewhere for travel compression socks.  

Product Details: Strength   | 8-15 mmHg |   Sizes:   small, medium, and large | Material: 50% bamboo, 25% recycled polyester, 10% recycled nylon, and 15 percent spandex Oeko-Tex

Best women’s compression socks for travel: Pacas Women’s Compression socks

Buy it now at   Pacas

Why we like it: Our choice for the best women’s compression socks for travel are Pacas Women’s Compression Socks. All of Pacas socks, including their compression socks, are made with alpaca wool. Alpaca wool is very soft and also helps keep feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer.  

Some people find it easier to put Pacas compression socks on than compression socks made of other materials. These socks come in a variety of colors and patterns, making it easy for most travelers to find a pair they like. They are also very durable. These cozy socks are great compression socks for flying on cool planes.  

Keep in mind:   Some people find alpaca wool irritating, and others don’t like wearing wool in warmer weather.  

Product Details: Strength: 12-15 mmHg |   Sizes: small/medium, and medium/ large   | Material:   44% nylon, 27% alpaca, 22% acrylic, 5% spandex, 2% olefin

Best travel compression socks for walking: Figs Compression Socks

Buy it now at   Figs

Why we like it: Our choice for the best travel compression socks for walking is Figs Compression Socks. Figs are designed for medical professionals who often spend hours at a time on their feet. These socks work equally well for most travelers who want compression socks to help them stay comfortable on long walks around new cities.

A unique feature of Figs Compression Socks is that customers can design their own socks by choosing a core color and design. Almost everyone should be able to create a pair they love.  

Keep in mind:   These compression socks have a lighter compression strength than most of the other socks we selected. Some travelers may prefer a higher compression strength.      

Product Details: Strength:   Light 360 compression | Sizes:   small, medium, and large   | Material:   91% nylon, 9% elastane

Best ankle compression socks: Comrad Ankle Compression Socks

Buy it now at   Comrad

Why we like it: Our choice for the best ankle compression socks for travelers are Comrad Ankle Compression Socks. These socks provide support around the arches and the Achilles' heel. This support can help prevent sore feet when traveling.  

Comrad Ankle Compression Socks are also thin, lightweight, and short. These features make them a good choice for hot weather. The low-cut design also makes these compression socks a good choice for many travelers who prefer to wear barely visible socks and still get some benefits of compression socks.  

Keep in mind: Because these socks only go up to your ankle, they won’t provide as many benefits as higher compression socks.  

Product Details:   Strength:   360-degree arch compression | Sizes:   small, medium, large, and X-large | Material:   92% nylon/8% spandex

How we chose the best compression socks for travel

I drew heavily on my own experience wearing compression socks for travel and use at home for everyday wear. Years ago, a doctor suggested that I wear compression socks after my ankles and feet swelled considerably on an overnight train in China. I’ve been wearing them regularly ever since. I also studied brand product descriptions, third-party reviews, and competitor articles, considering the following:

• Third-party reviews: I have opinions regarding the best compression socks for travel based on my own experience. However, I wanted to be sure my experience was stacked up against what others thought of my favorite brands of compression socks. I also wanted to learn more about what those who wear compression socks thought about brands I have not tried.  
• Brand reputation:   Some brands have earned a reputation for quality. I believe that brands that have earned a loyal following over time from satisfied customers deserve a closer look.  
• Quality of materials: I hate investing in items for travel just to have them fall apart quickly, especially when I am far from home and can’t easily find a replacement. My compression socks get a lot of use when traveling and help keep me healthy, so I rely on them heavily. In making selections, I paid close attention to both the durability and comfort level.
• Strength: Golden explained that “compression socks should fit snugly but not be uncomfortably tight.” After inadvertently buying a pair of compression socks that were so tight they left me with black-and-blue marks around my leg, I knew paying attention to the strength of compression socks was important. I selected mostly medium-strength compression socks that will fit most people comfortably without causing pain.  
• Style: Just because compression socks are sometimes used for medical purposes doesn’t mean they need to look sterile. It’s important to love what you are wearing, especially when traveling with a limited wardrobe. Compression socks are no exception.

Tips for buying compression socks for travel

Material is largely a matter of personal preference. The best compression socks for travelers in different categories are made from different materials. Some people love the feel of merino or alpaca wool, while others find these materials irritating. Others may love the softness of bamboo, but it’s not for everyone. Getting compression socks you find comfortable is important.  

According to Golden, “knee-high socks are generally the most comfortable and practical, regardless of the mode of travel or health conditions.” However, some people find shorter compression socks more comfortable and easier to put on, or they prefer them in hot climates. Golden shared that higher compression socks, such as thigh-high socks, are often uncomfortable and hard to keep in place, while shorter socks may not provide as much benefit.  

Just because compression socks are used by most travelers to promote wellness doesn’t mean they have to be boring. Several of the best compression socks come in a variety of styles and colors. It’s always a good idea to pick a style that will match multiple outfits when traveling.

Compression socks that are not strong enough may not provide enough strength to prevent blood clots. However, compression socks that are too tight may cause pain. It’s important to find a middle ground. This may involve some trial and error based on your own needs and comfort, and, of course, consulting with your doctor.  

Your medical history

Golden suggests speaking with a health care professional before starting to wear compression socks, especially if you have existing medical issues or if you're not sure if they're right for you. Some people might need more or less compression depending on their medical history.

What do compression socks do?

The prolonged sitting that is sometimes a necessary part of travel “is a major risk factor for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a serious condition wherein a blood clot forms in the deep veins of the legs that can lead to severe complications like pulmonary embolism and death,” Golden explained.  

According to Golden, “compression socks reduce the risk of DVT by working to promote improved circulation of the fluid in the lower leg and reduce stagnant fluid, thereby reducing blood clot risk.”  

Compression socks can also help travelers feel better on days they are doing a lot of walking “to alleviate swelling and enhance walking comfort and efficiency,” she said.

Benefits of compression socks

There are several health benefits to wearing compression socks .

• Prevent blood clots:   Air travel may increase the risk of DVT, which can be fatal. Wearing compression stockings might reduce this risk, according to Golden.  
• Reduce leg swelling:   Wearing compression socks on flights can reduce swelling in the legs .
• Make flights more comfortable:   The pain and discomfort associated with swelling may be reduced when wearing compression socks on flights.  

Frequently asked questions

Can you sleep in compression socks?

You should not sleep in compression socks unless advised to do so by your doctor, according to Golden.  

How long should you wear compression socks?

Golden explained that there is no set number of hours you should wear compression socks. However, if they become uncomfortable, then it is time to remove them. A slight indentation in the skin where the compression sock ends is normal, but compression socks should not cause pain, she explained.  

When is the best time to wear compression socks?

Golden recommended putting on compression socks early in the morning before fluid has the chance to accumulate in the legs and then removing them before bed. However, if wearing them on a long flight, train ride, or car ride, keep compression socks on for the duration of the trip regardless of the time of day.  

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The 30 Most Comfortable Shoes To Wear All Day

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In the realm of footwear, walking shoes are unsung heroes. They’re obviously needed for day-to-day walking, but they can be so much more. These shoes redefine comfort, offering a seamless blend of style and practicality. From versatile travel companions to festival-ready pairs, each step is cushioned with details like breathable fabrics, non-slip outsoles, and innovative footbed technologies.

Whether navigating the demands of work or conquering hiking trails, a reliable (and cute) walking shoe is worth investing in.

Price Reference (average price):

$ | Under $50

$$ | Between $50-$125

$$$ | More than $125

Walking Shoes For Travel

When hopping on a flight or exploring a new city, travel shoes can make or break your trip. Opt for a pair of shoes that combines comfort and style, allowing you to explore new destinations with ease. Lightweight and supportive, these shoes are designed for all-day wear, ensuring you can wander through bustling streets, historical landmarks, and local markets without pain. 

Image: Cariuma

Off-White Canvas Sneaker

Cariuma is one of the best sustainable shoe brands , and its OCA Low style is a bestseller. The casual sneaker has far more support than you’d think at first glance, while the canvas material also helps your feet breathe, even on long walking tours. And who doesn’t love having over 15 colors to choose from? 

Image: Nordstrom

V-12 Sneaker

Veja shoes are popular all across the globe, making them a top choice for travelers. They get comfier with every wear, and their sleek and minimal design makes them easy to pair with your travel wardrobe. 

Image: Amazon

FuelCell 990 V6 Sneaker

New balance.

We’ve seen the resurgence of the ‘Dad shoe,’ so if you’re ready to join the trend this sneaker is for you. The gray colors are easy to style with everything from a sweatsuit for the plane to a blouse and skirt for brunch in a new place. 

Image: Allbirds

Tree Runners

Allbirds is another top shoe brand, lending themselves to everything from running to walking to workwear. If you have a trip where you’ll do everything, you can’t go wrong with these mesh sneaks.

Echo Knit Slip On Sneaker

Slip-on sneakers have a large appeal, especially for speeding your way through a TSA line. This knit slip-on comes in over a dozen colors and won’t take up much space in your luggage. 

Walking Shoes For Festivals

Festivals demand footwear that can keep up with the vibrant energy and endless dancing. Choose shoes specifically tailored for long-time wear, offering a perfect balance of comfort and durability. Plus, with their lively colors and cushioned soles, these shoes are not just a practical choice; they're a stylish statement that lets you enjoy every beat of the music without sacrificing your footing. 

Challenger 7

We’re big HOKA fans, and the ultra-cushioned sneaker is perfect for all-day wear at a festival. The bright colors are also a bonus–making your festival outfit even bolder–and we love the range of styles and colors the brand has. 

Image: Vans

UltraRange EXO Shoe

The Ultrarange is one of the most comfortable sneakers I’ve ever had—and I’ve owned multiple colors. The EXO style is lightweight and cushioned to keep you on your feet without aching.

Mega Crush Clog

You’ve probably seen Crocs on everyone from toddlers to adults, and it’s surely because of the all-day comfort and breathability they provide. This stylish clog is waterproof (though your feet would get wet) and easy to clean, so you can rush through mud to get to your next set without worry. Plus, the platform gives you a few extra inches of visibility!

Image: Madwell

Breakthru Day Lace Sneakers

We love this wavy-style sneaker. The bright pops of color keep things interesting, and high-traction soles will keep you sure-footed.

Image: Teva

Hurricane XLT2 Vegan Hiking Sandal

When it comes to festivals, sometimes the best shoe is actually a sandal. Teva is one of the most trusted brands for adventure and all-day-wear styles, like this vegan version that will stay on your foot. 

Shoes For Hiking And Workouts

From fitness enthusiasts to nature lovers, investing in versatile shoes is essential for hiking and working out alike. These shoes provide the necessary support for challenging trails or offer the flexibility needed for various workout routines. With rugged soles and breathable materials, they can aid the transition from conquering mountainous terrains to powering through gym sessions. 

Merrell has been a longtime hiking shoe favorite, and this style is an affordable option. The shoe is great for day hikes and dry trails.

Image: Hoka

Anacapa 2 Mid GTX

This lightweight hiking shoe has plenty of desirable features. Crafted with Leather Working Group Gold-rated waterproof leather and a GORE-TEX bootie with recycled polyester fabric, it offers both durability and environmental responsibility. It’s a great shoe for hiking enthusiasts seeking a lesser environmental footprint.

Image: Revolve

Cloudroam Waterproof Sneaker

For those looking for a durable hiking shoe , this waterproof sneaker-hiking boot hybrid has a superfoam cushion footbed and Missiongrip rubber bites on the bottom to keep you upright. 

Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Shoe

Engineered for an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride, this sneaker has a signature Fresh Foam midsole. The mesh upper with suede and knit details, along with no-sew overlays, ensures a sleek fit that will make your cardio smoother.

Women’s Running Sneakers

This versatile sneaker features a comfortable, breathable fabric and a non-slip, wear-resistant outsole. The slip-on design is available in a variety of trendy colors, and will effortlessly complement the workout clothing you already have. They’re perfect for activities like lifting, dancing, and general fitness.

Comfortable Shoes For Work

If you’re on your feet for most of your workday, you already know the importance of a shoe that can support you. These comfortable shoes prioritize both style and functionality, ensuring a seamless blend of professionalism and comfort no matter your work environment. With features like arch support and cushioned insoles, they make the daily grind more manageable so you can focus on your to-do list rather than your aching soles.

Murphy Sneaker

Naturalizer.

A minimal sneaker is a timeless staple. Though this style has a hint of beige, it’s a clean and chic shoe that will keep you comfortable and fit the work dress code. 

Ballet Flats

Comfortable walking shoes can come in a range of styles, including ballet flats. This affordable mesh flat has a rounded toe, wide toe box for added comfort, and arch support.

Time Off Sneaker

Dr scholl’s.

Another white sneaker , these shoes are machine-washable and are constructed with a topcloth made from recycled plastic bottles. They also have the comfort you’d expect from Dr. Scholl’s. 

GrandPro Topspin Sneaker

For a designer work shoe, give these sneaks a try. With a loafer-like upper and a leather exterior, these shoes look great with trousers . 

Madison Slip-On Sneaker

This Dr. Scholl’s style is a shoe that I wore for years. The suede-like fabric is soft and durable, and the footbed has a memory foam insole. From afar, they look like a pair of loafers, and I can promise they’ll keep you comfortable. 

Everyday Walking Shoes

Everyday walking shoes should effortlessly merge into your lifestyle. These are the shoes you slip on for a podcast walk, a quick errand, or running out to check the mail. You’ll want a pair that complements your daily wardrobe while offering the support needed for extended periods on your feet. These are some of the best walking shoes for your day-to-day, and you won’t mind seeing them next to your door. 

Tree Pipers

An everyday shoe is one you always want to wear, and you won’t want to take these mesh shoes off. The eucalyptus tree fiber is lightweight and breezy, and since you’ll wear these often, you can toss them in the wash for a quick clean. 

Lightweight Slip-On Walking Shoes

A slip-on sneaker is perfect as an everyday shoe. The knit upper is breathable and comfortable with or without socks. And as you know, we love a shoe that comes with lots of color options!

Blazer Low ‘77

For a cute street sneaker, opt for the Blazer Low in pink and white. The flat sneaker is easy to pair with pants and dresses of all lengths–great for an everyday style.

Minimalist Shoe

If you like roomy shoes, this wide toe box sneaker is for you. Available in eight colorways, it’s a minimal barefoot style that will help your feet move naturally; it also features a memory foam footbed and grippy sole. 

Jumpstart Walking Shoe

This premium shoe has a stretchy upper that makes it easy to slide on and off. 

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

15 Best Comfortable Walking Shoes for Women, According to Podiatrists and Orthopedists

You'll want to walk all day, every day, in these stylish, comfy picks.

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

Our top picks for the best walking shoes for women:

• Best Overall : Brooks Ghost 15
• Best Value: Tiosebon Slip-On Walking Shoe
• Best Lightweight: New Balance FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker
• Best for Standing All Day: Rykä Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoe
• Best Cushioning: Hoka Bondi 8

We teamed up with sports medicine physician Jordan Metzl, M.D. , and foot and ankle surgeon A. Holly Johnson, M.D. , who practices at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, as well as Emily Splichal , a podiatrist at the Center for Functional and Regenerative Podiatric Medicine in Chandler, Arizona, to answer your most pressing questions about how to find the best walking shoes for women that are comfy to wear and healthy for your feet.

We focused extensively on comfort during our vetting process , which included evaluating more than 1,000 data points collected over 200 hours of walking, thanks to dozens of consumer testers . Our consumer testers include runners training for marathons, long-distance walkers and people who stand all day for work like teachers and nurses. Though some of our picks for the best walking shoes for women may be labeled as a running shoe or a trainer, we vetted each of these pairs to ensure they're suitable for walking.

Whether you’re walking long distances for exercise, travel or work, or just running errands, you’ll need the right pair of shoes to help keep you pain-free while you're on your feet all day. At the end of this guide, read more about how we chose the best walking shoes for women and learn everything you need to know about how to shop for the right fit. Looking for more shoe recommendations? Check out our picks for the best walking shoes for men , the best running shoes and the best walking sandals to buy this year.

Brooks Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe

Help prevent foot pain with a shoe that prioritizes stability and control. Brooks is a popular running shoe brand, but walkers love this style for its ample cushioning and comfortable heel . The Ghost 15 has a massive following for being a supportive, versatile sneaker that can easily transition from walking to running. We found this pair to be comfortable to wear during gym workouts too. This pair features a larger heel drop, measuring 12 millimeters, which is likely too high for runners who land on the middle or front of the foot.

Tester notes: "The shoe felt supportive while standing for long periods of time (like at a concert) as well as when walking around a city," noted one tester who said these are her new go-to walking shoes. One tester with chronic foot pain said she usually finds "no shoes comfortable to wear, but these are amazing." The sneakers got high marks across the board for cushioning, support and traction, with one tester saying it "didn't even feel like I was running on pavement while wearing these."

Tiosebon Slip-On Walking Shoe

Not only are these Tiosebon sneakers by far the most affordable shoes in our roundup , at around $40 , but they also have more than 32,000 Amazon reviews. Podiatrists like how lightweight they are (less than 150 grams per shoe) but are wary of the thicker heel cushioning because it could "make it harder when you go from wearing the shoes to barefoot." Compared with other pairs, this style doesn't offer as much support and stability, both of which can help promote foot strength. Available in 35 different colors, the mesh upper is highly breathable with a sock-like fit.

Tester notes: These slip-on sneakers were popular with testers for their cushioning. One tester said, "They didn't look like clunky orthopedic shoes, but they felt as if they were padded with 4 inches of memory foam." Another shared that "they're easy on, easy off." Testers didn’t rate the appearance as highly as other styles, though.

New Balance FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker

Weighing around 150 grams per shoe, these New Balance sneakers are among the lightest we tested, and they were popular with our testers and podiatrists. Podiatrists liked that these allow lots of freedom of movement thanks to the mesh in the front of the shoe . The slip-on design features a tongue that stays put for easy on/off, making this a great commuter shoe too. We found that this shoe has a thinner midsole compared with other picks, which allows for quicker movement but offers less cushioning. With an impressive 70,000 Amazon reviews, these shoes are an excellent value for a top-tested sneaker.

Tester notes: Blown away by comfort straight out of the box, one tester said, "Right when I put them on, they started molding to my feet." With high marks across the board for cushioning and comfort, testers unanimously said they would continue wearing these shoes. Testers credited the front mesh for making the shoes breathable and comfy over bunions.

RELATED: 10 Best New Balance Shoes for Every Lifestyle

Rykä Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoe

Rykä is a popular brand for women's sneakers since the brand designs shoes specifically for the shape of women's feet. Podiatrists liked that the shoe offered good mobility with soft cushioning — great for walking and fitness classes alike. We liked the segmented outsole for traction on all types of walks but noted that the foam didn't appear as durable as other styles.

Tester notes: Impressed with "how lightweight and breathable these were," as one tester noted, our panel of testers gave these shoes perfect scores for cushioning and support. One tester even said she felt like she was "walking on clouds." Unlike other walking shoes testers had tried, they called this pair "sleek" and "stylish."

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V13 Running Shoe

An overly cramped toebox can cause intense foot pain when you have wide feet. These New Balance sneakers are available in both wide and extra-wide sizing to ensure a proper fit without any crowding . With a flexible knit upper, these shoes can comfortably accommodate bunions as well. Dr. Metzl appreciated New Balance's shoes' excellent construction and thought they would be a good fit for people of all ages and with different fitness routines.

Tester notes: Testers gave these shoes perfect scores for fit, comfort and cushioning after logging more than 60 hours working out in this style. One tester called this pair "very lightweight and breathable," and another said, "I find myself reaching for this pair over all of my other running and walking shoes whenever I leave my home." Testers especially liked the cushioning foam, but some felt these shoes were a bit clunky. "I felt like it gave me a boost on long walks and hill work," commented one tester. "My feet felt less tired and it definitely gives a spring to the step."

Hoka Bondi 8

The thick cushioning on this pair from Hoka can seem intimidating at first, but it's a game changer if you're walking long distances or recovering from an injury . The mesh upper is breathable, and we like that it's available in a variety of stylish colorways. With medium and wide sizing, the shoes offer neutral stability with plush cushioning. Because of the thick cushioning, though, these shoes are heavier and a bit bulkier than some other styles.

Tester notes: One GH Institute analyst was immediately blown away by just how cushioned and supported her feet felt when wearing this pair. Whether walking on the treadmill or the road, one tester said, "These shoes put a spring in my step." When we interviewed avid walkers, many said the Hoka sneakers' cushioning is unparalleled, but many wished they were more affordable.

Adidas Women's Ultraboost 21 Running Shoe

Keeping your arches properly supported is key for a comfortable walking shoe, especially if you have high arches. This pair from Adidas is a favorite of many GH analysts who have been wearing them regularly for the past three years. This pair is designed with the Brand's lightweight BOOST foam, full of tiny pockets of air that return energy to your foot and propel you forward. Dr. Metzl likes the amount of cushioning in the midsole and recommends these shoes for those “complaining of joint aches.” On Amazon, there are substantial differences in price for different colors.

Tester notes: Multiple testers called the cushioning "cloud-like" and appreciated the high foam levels and extra air pockets to cushion impact. All testers found the Ultraboost line of sneakers to be comfortable and said they would continue wearing them. One tester said, "I have super high arches and I never have any arch pain when I'm wearing these shoes."

Nike Zoom Pegasus 39 Running Shoes

Famous for good reason, the Nike Pegasus line has been a household name in the running world since 1983. Combining walking and running in a workout is an effective way to meet your fitness goals without putting too much strain on your joints. With neutral support and medium cushioning, this reliable pair of running shoes is ideal for a walk-to-run workout. These shoes feature ample arch support and a springy feel that helps return energy to your feet when picking up speed.

Tester notes : "They are comfortable and require little time to conform to your feet," reported one satisfied tester who has been wearing Nike Pegasus sneakers for years. Another tester said they're "incredibly comfortable" and "a great mix of trendy and colorful." She also said, "As someone with a bad back who frequently finds exercise painful, these running shoes never flare any hip pain." All of our testers for this style have narrower feet as these shoes aren't available in wide sizing, but some online reviewers found the toe box too narrow.

RELATED: 11 Best Nike Shoes for Women, Reviewed by Sneaker Experts

Altra AltraFWD Experience Shoes

Rocker-style walking shoes, like this pair from Altra, are popular to help propel you forward with each step. This pair features a roomy toe box designed to cater to your foot's natural shape , making them especially popular for anyone with wider feet or bunions. It has a low heel drop to help maintain your natural gait and encourage efficient steps forward. These shoes are made with lightweight and responsive compression-molded midsole foam.

Tester notes: Testers appreciated the unique shape of these sneakers. “It was wide and felt like it mimicked the shape of my foot,” reported one tester. Users liked this pair's stylish appearance and four different color options. Some found this pair a bit stiff at first, saying it took a little while to get used to.

Allbirds Tree Runner

Sneakers from Allbirds are a popular travel option since you can toss them right into the washer for easy cleaning after a long trip . (Just make sure to remove the insoles first.) When we washed this pair, we noticed no changes in appearance, but a wash cycle didn't remove all of the stains. The knit upper is made with lyocell, which is known for its silky feel and moisture-wicking properties. Note that this pick isn't available in half sizes.

Tester notes: A whopping 91% of our testers gave these shoes a perfect rating for comfort. One tester said, "They're super comfortable all day long, even with lots of walking." Many testers noted that they especially liked that they could go sock-free with this pair.

RELATED: Allbirds Review: We Tested The Popular Styles for Comfort and Support

Saucony Peregrine 12 Running Shoe

Hiking shoes are known to be bulky and heavy, but this pick from Saucony is lightweight with a streamlined design, ideal for strolls on the trails. The rugged outsole has deep, cleat-like treads , making this a great pair to wear when hiking to prevent any slips on rough terrain. There's cushioning at the back of the heel for added comfort.

Tester notes: Giving high scores for ankle support and stability, testers said this pair didn't even require a break-in period to feel comfy. Testers said they're "comfortable to wear" and "lightweight and practical." Some testers wish they had more cushioning for extra support on firmer terrain.

RELATED: 13 Best Hiking Shoes of 2024

Vionic Rest Amber Backstrap Sandal

Vionic specifically designs orthotic shoes, but with such fashionable styles and chic embellishments, you’d never know . These walking sandals have a microfiber-wrapped footbed for soft comfort and a rubber outsole for traction. The flexible ethylene-vinyl acetate midsole helps absorb shock and support your arches. Available in multiple colors, these trendy leather sandals can go from day to night with ease. Because this style isn't available in half sizes, the brand recommends sizing down if you're between sizes.

Tester notes: Although testers haven't tried this exact pair yet, panelists have tested the brand's other styles, and one shared, "Vionic shoes keep my feet pain-free all day without having to wear ugly orthotics." Testers also loved Vionic's sneakers for providing excellent cushioning and support.

Walking shoes we are planning to test next:

We are constantly testing walking shoes to find the new best styles. The following pairs include styles we are either currently testing or are planning to test soon.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Supportive Running Shoe

For ultimate support, this pair from Brooks not only has arch support built-in, but a supportive design to help alleviate pressure on your feet, knees and hips. Because of the support features, it's a stiffer shoe. They feature lightweight cushioning in the midsole and a breathable mesh upper to encourage airflow. Available in narrow, wide and extra-wide sizing, this pair is especially popular among people with injuries or specific foot concerns like diabetic foot pain. Many online reviewers call out this pair's excellent ankle support for added comfort, especially when standing all day.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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• Accessibility and Aging
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The Best Adult Diapers

By Anna Wenner

A good adult diaper can open up the world for someone with incontinence, making daily life a whole lot easier. A reliable diaper allows you to see friends, go to the gym, and travel without anxiety about leakage, smells, or finding the nearest bathroom to change.

After testing 15 adult diapers, we found that drugstore options are mostly bad. If you’re fully incontinent, we think it’s worth spending more for premium diapers that offer better coverage. And if you need only light protection, say, for after labor, you may prefer incontinence underwear (which we’re currently testing).

Everything we recommend

InControl BeDry Premium Incontinence Briefs

Absorbent with wetness strip.

These are absorbent and stay secure and leak-proof even during intense activity. Caregivers will appreciate the wetness indicator. They’re pricey, though, and only available from limited online retailers.

Buying Options

NorthShore MegaMax Tab-Style Briefs

Faster absorbency in more sizes.

These extremely absorbent diapers come in a range of sizes that might be a better fit for smaller and larger people. They don’t come with a wetness strip and are the priciest of our picks, though.

Beyond XP5000 Plastic-Backed Adult Briefs

Ideal for arthritic hands.

The Beyond XP5000’s thick, sturdy Velcro-style fasteners are easier to use if you have limited dexterity in your hands. But these diapers are less absorbent than some of our other picks.

Assurance Unisex Stretch Briefs with Tabs

Best of the drugstore adult diapers.

This diaper isn’t nearly as good as our other picks, but if you need diapers urgently, only have mild incontinence, and can’t wait on shipping or want to spend less upfront, they’ll work in a pinch.

How we picked

We looked for adult diapers that don’t leak and that keep you feeling dry, whether you’re going for a run or spending the day in bed.

The best adult diapers fit every body.

A good adult diaper shouldn’t chafe, sag, or feel loose or bulky under clothes.

We looked for diapers that will cost less over time. The more absorbent a diaper, the fewer you’ll need to use.

The extremely absorbent InControl BeDry Premium Incontinence Briefs hold more than 67 ounces (the equivalent of voiding your bladder five to eight times) and didn’t leak in our tests. They’re a good choice if you need maximum coverage and want diapers you only need to change a few times a day.

A wetness indicator strip makes it easy for a caregiver to see whether the diaper needs changing. The refastenable tabs are sturdy and will stay tight even through intense activity, but those with arthritis or other dexterity issues may have trouble with the thin material.

While these diapers are pricier per diaper than many we tested, the overall cost will likely be lower than cheap brands because you’ll need fewer throughout the day. Though the smaller packs (2-count and 16-count) are available on Amazon, we recommend you buy through the InControl website; you’ll get a better deal per diaper and free shipping if you order a case of 48 diapers. They come in four sizes and one color.

We found that the NorthShore MegaMax Tab-Style Briefs absorbed just as much as the InControl BeDry diapers (even though they’re advertised as holding less). They come in a wider range of sizes, so they may be a better fit for those who need a smaller or larger diaper.

Because they lack a wetness strip, they’re less helpful for caregivers than the InControl BeDry diapers. The refastenable tabs are very similar to InControl’s in that they will hold tight even with strenuous activity, but they might be hard to use independently if you have arthritis.

Though they cost the most per diaper out of all the diapers we tested, the higher quality means you can change them less often. Unlike the InControl, NorthShore MegaMax diapers are available in five different colors and can be purchased at several online retailers.

The Beyond XP5000 Plastic-Backed Adult Briefs have Velcro-style, hook-and-loop fasteners that set them apart from our other picks. The tabs require less strength to take on and off and provide a larger and thicker surface to grip, making them easier to use for those with conditions like arthritis. But hook-and-loop fasteners can loosen throughout the day more so than adhesive tabs, so we think they’re best for folks who aren’t particularly active.

They’re also not as absorbent as our InControl and NorthShore picks, struggling especially with a full bladder emptying quickly. With less volume, they absorb decently well and will keep your skin dry.

Most of the diapers that you can buy in the store — including the Assurance Unisex Stretch Briefs with Tabs — hold much less liquid and are more prone to leaking if you have full incontinence. But the Assurance diapers are the best of the lot, holding about 20 ounces more in our stationary tests than diapers from better-known brands like Depend (though they do start feeling wet to the touch at only 8 ounces).

While competitors absorbed less and leaked easily, the Assurance diapers showed no leaks or seepage below 30 ounces of liquid. But we don’t think this diaper will work for anyone who needs to be able to regularly empty a full bladder because the absorbency is so slow.

At a little over 50¢ per diaper (compared with around $1.50 to $3.00 for our other picks), the initial cost of buying these is easier on those with a tight budget. However, long term you may end up spending as much as or more than you would on our other picks because you’ll likely need to change the diaper more often.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best diaper for active users and caregivers: incontrol bedry premium incontinence briefs, better for smaller and larger bodies: northshore megamax tab-style briefs, best diaper for arthritic fingers: beyond xp5000 plastic-backed adult briefs, best drugstore diaper: assurance unisex stretch briefs with tabs, how we picked and tested, the real cost of low-quality diapers, other good adult diapers, the competition.

I’ve reviewed grab bars , shower mats , and toilet seat risers for Wirecutter, as well as a variety of gear for older and disabled people for USA Today’s Reviewed. I also spent years as a caregiver for my mother while she went through cancer treatments, and I remained her caregiver through the end of her life.

I’ve helped multiple family members navigate bladder and bowel issues, including researching incontinence underwear, colostomy bags (and related accessories), and toilet seat risers. And I’ve seen firsthand how much embarrassment and misinformation there is around buying products for these needs.

For this guide:

• I read various incontinence resources—including academic studies, articles, blogs, and chat forums—created by and for those who live with all types of bladder incontinence.
• I interviewed two occupational therapists who specialize in pelvic health to find out what makes a good diaper (as well as the dealbreakers), and I spoke with representatives for adult-diaper manufacturers.
• I talked with friends and family with bladder incontinence and read online conversations. I also interviewed a man in his late 20s with full bladder and bowel incontinence who helped us test diapers, to get a sense of which ones really work (and which fall far too short).

Incontinence can refer to bladder incontinence (peeing) or bowel incontinence (pooping). Though we focused on the needs of those with bladder incontinence for this guide, our picks will work for bowel incontinence as well.

Bladder incontinence can range from leaking a few drops throughout the day to a complete loss of bladder control. And it can be an issue for everyone from athletes who do high-impact sports to those who just gave birth to people who need full-time care.

Although the recommendations for diaper-style briefs in this guide are geared toward folks with high levels of bladder incontinence up to full bladder incontinence, we also kept in mind the needs of those with moderate bladder incontinence. That said, if you have mild or moderate incontinence, or you’re looking for options that are closer to standard underwear to make the transition, you may want to consider pull-up style briefs or reusable incontinence underwear. We’re currently testing both and will have a new guide out soon with our picks.

There is a common misconception that bladder incontinence is tied to aging, yet anyone at any age can be (or become) incontinent.

In testing, we made sure that our picks would work for the whole spectrum of people with heavy incontinence—from those who are living independent, active lifestyles to those who receive help from a caregiver for their incontinence needs.

The InControl BeDry Premium Incontinence Briefs are some of the highest-quality, most-durable adult diapers on the market. Our tester, a 27-year-old farmer with full bladder incontinence, said he “feels the most secure” in these briefs. “I can live my best life because I’m not chained to my home,” he said. Although full absorbency is not quite as fast with these briefs as it is for the NorthShore MegaMax briefs , the BeDry briefs still offer leak-free, quick absorbency in the same large amounts, at a lower price per diaper.

This brief is extremely absorbent. During testing, this diaper easily held 67 ounces of liquid (the most the average person pees in a day). We were actually able to add up to around 80 ounces before the diaper’s absorbency slowed, and it was able to absorb up to 100 ounces without leaks. So even though you’ll still probably want to change this diaper at least once or twice throughout the day (for hygienic and comfort reasons), it can technically last for a very long time before it becomes ineffective.

The wetness indicator is easy to see and works well. For caregivers, a wetness indicator can be a huge help when they’re taking care of someone who can’t reliably communicate discomfort. The strip on these diapers turns from a pale yellow to a dark black, making it easy to see at a glance when it’s time for a change.

The tabs are strong and easily refastenable. This diaper’s tabs have a strong adhesive, with blue strips on the edges that make them easy to see against the white diaper. In addition, the plastic-coated fastening areas make it a cinch to put on the diaper, take it off, or reposition it throughout the day. Our tester especially liked the labeled fastening areas because they allowed him to get the fit right the first time without needing to redo the tabs.

The quality is (almost) unmatched. Ultimately, adult diapers still have a long way to go before most are as reliable and durable as they need to be for active users. InControl BeDry and the NorthShore MegaMax stand out well and above the competition; their durability, sturdier materials, and smart designs help prevent leaks and seepage, and they held up to our tester’s active lifestyle and high level of incontinence. This diaper’s Whiff-X core, the specialized absorbency area, helps this brief feel dry and comfortable, even with large amounts of liquid. And the leak guards keep any liquid that isn’t immediately absorbed from ending up on clothing.

The overall price is lower than comparable diapers. Incontinence products add up fast, particularly for those who need to use them 24/7. When calculating cost, it’s important to factor in what you’re paying per diaper and how many diapers you typically need in a day. With the InControl BeDry diapers, our tester with full bladder incontinence needed to use only three over a 24-hour period (he noted that he could have probably gotten by with two, but he prefers a change before bed). This puts the current price per day for a pack of 48 at $5.55 over 24 hours. (Note that shipping from the company is free if you buy the case of 48 diapers, but for the smaller bag, it can add more than $10.)

The sizing is clear and makes reordering easy. Each diaper is labeled with the brand name and size, so reordering is easy. This saves you from trying to guess or dig through past orders (and from having to decipher vague descriptions like “I like the gray ones” if you’re ordering for someone else).

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• We find InControl’s advertised capacity for these diapers confusing. It lists the “theoretical capacity” (this is a measure used in quality control but one that’s not really applicable to real-world use). We wish the company would just list the absorbency before leakage.
• We found that the plastic in the diaper made some noise, but it wasn’t enough to bother our tester throughout the day.
• For people with limited dexterity, the thin sticker tabs could be difficult to use.
• InControl’s diapers are available from fewer online retailers than our other picks. You can buy the smaller packs (two briefs and 16 briefs) on Amazon, but buying the 48-diaper pack directly from the company’s website is a better deal.
• Whereas shipping is free if you buy the largest offered pack of 48 diapers, the smaller packs can come with some fairly hefty shipping costs. And, if you order from InControl’s website, it can take more than a week for the diapers to arrive.
• Unlike NorthShore MegaMax diapers, InControl BeDry diapers come in one color only.
• Price per diaper: $1.85 at the time of publication
• Sizes: S (from 27-inch waist/hip) to XL (up to 47-inch waist/hip)
• Colors: white
• Wetness indicator: yes
• Claimed absorbency: 12 hours

If you need petite or larger sizes, or if you tend to release a full bladder all at once, the NorthShore MegaMax Tab-Style Briefs are the best choice. They work just as well as the InControl BeDry diapers , but they cost quite a bit more and don’t come with a wetness strip. Our tester described them as “by far one of the best adult diapers I have ever worn. I can go about my day confidently because I don’t have to be paranoid about this diaper falling off, tearing, or leaking unexpectedly.”

They can absorb a lot of pee very quickly. NorthShore’s MegaMax diapers absorbed even large volumes of liquid faster than every other diaper we tested—beating out the also-fast InControl BeDry diapers. For those who tend to pee a lot at once, this is crucial for avoiding leaks. The diapers advertise an absorbency of 30 to 49 ounces (depending on the size you wear), but our tests found that they could easily hold the full 67 ounces an average person pees in a day. We also like that NorthShore clearly lists the “absorbency before leakage” of its diapers, rather than a theoretical max capacity or other confusing claims.

The tabs are strong and easily refastenable. The tabs on NorthShore MegaMax diapers are made of thick, sturdy tape that can be easily refastened, and they have blue edges, so they’re easy to see and find against the diaper. The landing area isn’t quite as cleverly designed as the one on the InControl diapers, however, because it doesn’t have a printed-on reference indicating where to fasten the tabs for the best fit.

The color options are fun. Just because you’re wearing a diaper doesn’t mean it has to be boring. NorthShore MegaMax diapers come in five different colors, including a tie-dye pattern (though all the colors aren’t available for every size).

The quality and durability are impressive. Much like the quality of the InControl diapers, NorthShore’s diapers are top of the line. The MegaMax diapers are sturdy enough to work for even very active users (like our tester) while staying comfortable and leak-free. They’re made of highly durable material, which is on a par with the InControl diapers in keeping moisture away from the skin. And they’re reinforced with double leak guards and plastic backing to prevent any moisture breaking through.

They come in a wide range of sizes. NorthShore MegaMax offers the greatest range of sizes of all of our picks, with its XS starting at an 18-inch waist/hip measurement and its 2XL going up to 76 inches.

• Because they lack a wetness indicator, NorthShore MegaMax diapers aren’t as ideal for caregivers of folks who can’t communicate when a diaper needs to be changed.
• MegaMax is one of the most expensive adult diapers we saw. Due to this diaper’s high quality, it will still be cheaper overall than low-quality diapers that you’ll need to change more often, but ultimately the MegaMax didn’t have enough advantages over InControl’s BeDry to justify the increase in the cost per diaper. As with the BeDry diapers, with the MegaMax briefs you’ll get the best deal on cost per diaper and shipping by ordering directly from NorthShore’s website.
• MegaMax didn’t have enough advantages over InControl’s BeDry to justify the increase in the cost per diaper. As with the BeDry diapers, with the MegaMax briefs you’ll get the best deal on cost per diaper and shipping by ordering directly from NorthShore’s website.
• Unlike InControl, NorthShore doesn’t have the brand or size listed on its diaper. While this isn’t a dealbreaker by any means, it does make reordering more challenging for those who have tossed the packaging already.
• As with the InControl BeDry diapers, with the NorthShore MegaMax diapers, the plastic backing creates some noise during wear. But the noise was minimal and wasn’t noticeable under most clothing.
• Price per diaper: $2.87 for size M at the time of publication
• Sizes: XS (from 18-inch waist/hip) to 2XL (up to 76-inch waist/hip)
• Colors: five options (black, blue, pink, white, tie-dye)
• Wetness indicator: no
• Claimed absorbency: 30 to 49 ounces

Although the Beyond XP5000 Plastic-Backed Adult Briefs don’t offer the same absorbency or comfort as our top two picks, they do use hook-and-loop fasteners (rather than thin adhesive tabs). So they’re a lot easier for those with limited dexterity to use independently.

We don’t necessarily recommend this diaper for active people, however, because the hook-and-loop fasteners can more easily loosen throughout the day, compared with sticker tabs.

The hook-and-loop tabs work well and are easy to use. The hook-and-loop tabs on this diaper are easy to grab, fasten, and refasten. They require less hand strength and dexterity than sticker tabs (though they’re also less secure). So many folks who have arthritis or other conditions will be able to use these independently for longer.

The absorbency is good. Though the absorbency isn’t as fast as with the InControl BeDry or NorthShore MegaMax diapers, it’s nonetheless very solid. This diaper absorbed 30 ounces of liquid plenty quickly while still feeling very dry to the touch. However, as it neared the 67-ounce mark, the diaper was noticeably more damp than our other two top picks. Those who tend to release a lot of urine all at once may find this diaper leaks, but for those who release smaller amounts over time (even those with full bladder incontinence), this brief is more than up to the task.

Reordering is simple. The brand and size are both listed on the diaper, so it’s easy to reorder the product online yourself or get help from a loved one.

The materials are durable and will keep you mostly dry. The Beyond XP5000 diaper is made of high-quality materials; for small to moderate amounts of liquid, these diapers stay feeling nearly as dry and comfortable as the InControl BeDry and NorthShore MegaMax (and much more than Assurance). With larger volumes, this diaper still doesn’t leak, but it will feel damper to the touch, and it won’t be as comfortable for as long as InControl or NorthShore diapers.

It has a wetness indicator. Like our InControl and Assurance picks, this diaper comes with a wetness strip that changes color when it needs to be changed—an especially useful feature for caregivers.

• This diaper was a little louder to put on and take off than our top two picks because of the hook-and-loop strips. While our tester found the noise comparable to our other picks when he was walking around, quietly changing it in a public bathroom was more difficult.
• Because the tabs fasten with hook and loop, they tend to loosen and stretch over time. This can also cause chafing for especially active wearers.
• The cost per diaper is around the same price as those of the InControl BeDry and NorthShore MegaMax diapers. However, if you experience full bladder incontinence, there’s a real possibility you’ll be paying more overall because you’ll need to change this diaper more often. (Our tester ended up using five over the course of the day, rather than three.)
• Like the InControl BeDry diapers, these briefs aren’t available at many online retailers.
• The diaper packaging lists the absorbency capacity in vague and confusing terms. This isn’t helpful for understanding how much urine the diaper will hold for the average person or comparing across brands.
• This diaper is available in one only color.
• Price per diaper: $1.79 for size M at the time of publication
• Sizes: M (from 31-inch waist) to XL (up to 64-inch waist)
• Wetness Indicator: no
• Claimed absorbency: unclear

We generally found the diapers available in chain stores like Walgreens or CVS to be nowhere near the quality of the options available online. But if you need diapers last minute and can’t wait for shipping, or shopping online is too much of a hassle, Walmart’s Assurance Unisex Stretch Briefs with Tabs are the best of the worst.

If you’re dealing only with leaks or smaller amounts of urine, and you can change the diapers regularly, these’ll work in a pinch.

The upfront cost is hard to beat. Assurance Stretch Briefs are the cheapest ones we tested, and they’re one of the cheapest that are widely available at just 53¢ a pair. Due to their lower absorbency, in the long run you could spend the same or more as you would for a higher-quality diaper, since you’ll need to change it more often. However, for those on a tight budget, the lower price can be a huge help.

You can buy these diapers at a physical store. Though they’re also available online, these diapers are the only ones among our picks that you can easily purchase by driving to a nearby store. Because they’re from Walmart’s brand, these diapers can be found at most Walmart stores across the country. When you need a diaper immediately, this is one of the best that you can reliably find fast.

It has a wetness strip. If you’re a caregiver who needs to be able to tell when the diaper needs to be changed, a wetness strip can be crucial. While you’ll want to watch this diaper a little more closely than our other picks to make sure it’s not leaking, the wetness strip was easy to see and use.

• Compared with our other picks, the Assurance diaper has significantly worse absorbency, durability, and overall quality. If you have the time and budget to trade up for one of our other picks, we recommend doing so every time. But we know that’s not always possible, and for those situations, the Assurance diaper is your best bet.
• This diaper’s absorbency isn’t high enough or fast enough for those with total loss of bladder control or those who tend to pee a lot at once. Compared with our other picks, this diaper stayed damper during our tests, even with just 8 ounces of fluid (a fraction of what InControl’s or NorthShore’s diapers could hold without feeling damp). So the Assurance diaper should ideally be changed after every use, to avoid health issues and discomfort.
• Like the Beyond XP5000 diaper’s packaging, this diaper’s packaging doesn’t clearly list its absorbency capacity.
• This diaper comes in white only.
• Price per diaper: 53¢ (for all sizes) at the time of publication
• Sizes: S/M (from 22-inch waist) to L/XL (up to 64-inch waist)

An individual’s physical needs and lifestyle will factor into figuring out which diaper works best for them. A diaper that doesn’t leak or seep through is always the top priority, but we also focused on the following criteria:

• Absorbency volume: We took into consideration the heaviest use cases. And we eliminated diapers that wouldn’t work for those with full bladder incontinence or those who need to wear a diaper for longer stretches of time. We preferred diapers with packaging that explained absorbency in real-world terms, rather than in a theoretical capacity (which is intended as a standard for quality control, not a guidance on how much a diaper will hold).
• Absorbency speed: We focused on products that could quickly and reliably absorb the liquid as fast as possible, to help avoid leaks and contain smells.
• Leak-free design: A good diaper will keep even a full bladder’s contents contained—no matter your anatomy—while avoiding dreaded leaks out of the leg holes.
• Durable construction: We searched for diapers that were durable enough to hold up, whether you’re working outside in your garden or relaxing inside.
• Fit and comfort: Diapers cover a highly sensitive part of the body. Therefore it’s vital to find a pair that fits correctly, so you remain comfortable and confident throughout your day. A bad fit can lead to chafing, sores, leaks, and worse. To help us decide which models to try, we looked closely at user reviews, online forums, and information from people who use adult diapers.
• Keeping skin dry: A good diaper is the one you forget you’re wearing. We looked for diapers that wouldn’t feel sopping wet hours after they had been used.
• Refastenable tabs: One of the huge benefits of a diaper-style brief is being able to adjust the fit; this helps prevent leaks and increase comfort. We examined how each diaper’s refastening method worked, and we checked whether the tabs were easy to use, felt secure, and refastened without damaging the surface beneath.
• The right price: At a minimum, someone with full bladder incontinence will need to change a good-quality diaper at least three times a day. But with lower-quality and lower-absorbency diapers, you may need to change them as often as 12 times a day. No matter the diaper, the price adds up quickly, so we looked for diapers that cost the least over time.
• Low noise level: Plastic is essential for many of the highest-absorbency diapers to work well, but it can also be conspicuously loud. We focused on products that didn’t make a lot of noise when the wearer was moving around.
• Wetness indicator: A wetness indicator is most useful for those who get assistance with changing their diapers, such as from nurses or caregivers. For those changing their own diapers, this may not be a factor, but we kept this feature in mind to find the best option for those who need it.
• Size range: Though the adjustable nature of diapers means a single size can fit a wider range of bodies, we considered only those diapers that came in a wide range of sizes.

For this guide, we considered only tab-style diapers (commonly called adult diapers). They are more absorbent and leak-proof than pull-up style briefs. They also tend to fit better, since the tab fastener allows you to tighten or loosen the diaper, whereas a pull-up can easily droop, sag, or slide off.

Although we originally considered adding washable, cloth diapers to our testing, we quickly decided against it because they’re less absorbent, more prone to leaking, and difficult to clean.

We selected the highest-absorbency diapers from 15 different brands, including those that are household names to less-well-known brands you can only buy online. We first tried on each diaper, to evaluate how easy it was to use the tabs and follow the instructions for putting it on and fastening it correctly. We then tried out different movements and positions, to determine a diaper’s noise level and comfort.

Next, we put each diaper through a series of absorbency tests, to determine how much water it could hold without it leaking or seeping through and how quickly the absorption occurred. We started by pouring 8 ounces (the average single-urination amount) onto the absorbent part of the diaper while it was lying flat. We then progressively increased the amount to 30 ounces and then 67 ounces (about the most an average person urinates in a day), and then up to the listed maximum capacity for each diaper (or up to 100 ounces, for those that didn’t list the information explicitly).

During these tests, I kept an eye on how well the wetness indicator worked (if the diaper had one), and I took note of any problem areas in the design that left open the possibility of leakage with movement.

From there, we hung each diaper up overnight by its tabs, to see whether it would leak, seep through, or come undone from the weight of the liquid it had absorbed. Realistically, no matter how good a diaper is, it shouldn’t be worn for 24 hours, but we wanted to stress test each product for a worst-case scenario.

We then had a tester—a 27-year-old man who has full bladder and bowel incontinence—use the top four performers that we identified in our testing for 48 hours. (He didn’t test the Assurance Unisex Stretch Briefs because they didn’t work for his needs.)

A livestock farmer by profession, he wore the diapers while going about his work day, which involves constantly bending over, lifting heavy objects, using a chainsaw, and occasionally running to corral an animal who has found a weak spot in the fence. He evaluated each diaper’s absorbency, and he noted whether it leaked or contained odors, as well as how often he needed to change it.

It can be tempting to compare the cost of common incontinence diapers with that of premium diapers and buy the cheaper option. But because premium diapers absorb more, you can use fewer of them, and thus the total cost per day can be less.

Here’s the breakdown of what our tester used over 24 hours while testing premium InControl and MegaMax diapers, compared with the number of less-absorbent Depend Fresh Protection with Tabs we estimate he would have used, based on our own testing. (To be clear, he didn’t test the Depend briefs, because they don’t meet his needs as someone with full incontinence):

To determine the cost of the diaper itself, divide the total cost of the package by how many diapers it holds. In most cases, larger packages will provide a better value (and they often come with free shipping).

Beyond the cost savings, by choosing a high-quality diaper, you’ll spend less time worrying about leaks or finding a place to change. Our tester said that when low-quality diapers were his only option, for financial reasons, “I had anxiety because of the fear of being embarrassed, and I was depressed because the poor-quality diapers available to me limited my ability to be in public.”

An easy-on option for moderate incontinence: The McKesson Extended Wear Stretch Briefs have a single long strip of hook-and-loop fasteners on each side. So for those who have limited dexterity in their hands, this brief is one of the easiest to put on and take off. While the McKesson brief did not hold up well for our active tester with full bladder incontinence, it’s still worth considering for those with moderate bladder incontinence or those who can change a diaper more frequently.

If you want a subtler option: The Tena Proskin Stretch Fully Breathable Briefs leaked a little at 67 ounces, and they absorbed more slowly than some of our other picks. Yet we found them to be the closest to “regular” underwear, due to their quiet, clothlike material. For those who have moderate incontinence or who are still getting used to the idea of wearing a diaper, this is a good one for making the transition.

The solid, mid-priced Tranquility ATN Disposable Briefs provide impressive absorbency without any leaks. And though the company claims they hold up to 34 ounces, when we tested them with 67 ounces, they easily held the full amount. However, we dismissed these briefs because they were noisy when our tester moved around, and they had a less comfortable fit.

The Attends Advanced Briefs have a great price, but their slow absorbency, moderate noise level, and less-comfortable feel led us to dismiss them. Yet in a pinch, this product is still a fine choice.

The Abena Abri-Form Comfort M4 and BetterDry Adult Diapers w/ Plastic Backing were both strong options for high-absorbency diapers made from quality materials. However, both had a noticeable leaking issue, so we ultimately dismissed them. The Abena brief’s lack of an elastic waistband around the back led to gapping and leaks for some wearers, and the adhesive tabs tore the plastic during repositioning. And the BetterDry brief’s leak guards were too small for larger volumes of liquid.

We had high hopes for the Depend Fresh Protection with Tabs briefs, given how ubiquitous they were. But we found that the quality didn’t hold up. This brief was less absorbent, durable, and harder to use than others we tested. Whereas some of our briefs could absorb 67 ounces easily, the Depend brief began leaking at only 8 ounces.

We loved the low price of the FitRight OptiFit Briefs and the Walgreens Certainty Unisex Briefs , but we found that both had major leak issues.

Although the Unique Wellness Briefs did hold a lot compared with other briefs we tested, they could not hold the advertised 87 ounces. This product’s packaging was also the least discreet by far.

Prevail Air Plus Daily Briefs had hundreds of good user reviews, but ultimately they couldn’t compete with the other briefs we tested. The mid-range price is decent, but the repositionable tabs consistently tore the diaper during testing. Overall, the quality did not match the price.

This article was edited by Claire Perlman and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Lindsey Vestal, occupational therapist and pelvic health specialist , phone interview , October 10, 2023

Kourtney Randsdorp, occupational therapist and pelvic health specialist , email interview , October 12, 2023

Adam Greenberg, president of NorthShore Care Supply , email interview , April 11, 2024

Meet your guide

Anna Wenner

Anna Wenner is a freelance writer. Though Anna’s writing spans everything from fandoms to fashion, she especially loves accessibility and LGBTQ+ topics. Previously Anna created cards at Hallmark, documented graves at a cemetery, and photographed everything from the NCAA tournament to President Barack Obama.

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To use another cliché, comfort is key here. Your flats should be easy to break in and provide ample support for your arches (or lack thereof). Below are our style editors' favorite flats to get you from work, brunch, and everywhere in between.

Our top 3 favorite flats we've tested:

Rothy's pointed toe flats have a spacious toe box and and an elasticated collar, so they're even comfortable for those with wide feet. "I love their padded insoles and how easily they fold up and pack in my tote," says associate style editor Gabrielle Chase.

"They wear beautifully, are super easy to clean (just wipe them down with a damp cloth and maybe a little hand soap if necessary), and they mold to your feet like malleable leather socks," says Insider Reviews executive editor Sally Kaplan.

These pliable flats come in less colors than Rothy's, but still beat them in terms of comfort. They have sneaker-like support in their footbeds and take zero break-in time.

Best overall: Everlane Day Glove

Everlane's leather Day Glove flat is an almost (but not quite) ballet slipper guaranteed to go with just about all your clothing, and it's a staple of nearly every style writer and editor on our team. We wrote up a full review after test-driving these flats, and they remain an  all-time favorite . "Everlane's Day Glove flats are much more comfortable than any other flats I've tried," writes former deputy editor Malarie Gokey, "They actually fit my foot and move with me — not against me."

The leather molds to the foot, so not only will the flats last, they'll get more comfortable over time. The shoes also feature pull tabs, ventilation holes, and comfy insoles to eliminate some of the most common comfort-related issues flats pose. The Day Glove flats come in tons of colors, including classics like black and white as well as some fun shades like cobalt blue or lime green.

They cost $101, and while not inexpensive, it's a steal for shoes that will last you for as long as these do. Several of us have been wearing the same pair for years, with plenty of life in them left. — Sally Kaplan

Read more in our full Everlane Day Glove review , or read up another one of our favorites in our full Everlane Day Ballet Flats review .

Best for arch support: Naturalizer Vivienne Flat

Having high arches has deterred me from shopping for ballet flats in the past. I'm guilty of wearing sneakers where they don't belong. But as much as I love my tennis shoes, they're owed a break now and then. 

One of the most common orthopedic conditions is sore arches. Vivienne flat remedies those pains with ample arch support, yet still maintains a sleek ballet flat silhouette. Naturalizer, which belongs to the same brand family as Dr. Scholl's, designed the Vivienne to be as comfortable as grandma's orthos without the chunky rubber sole. 

The Vivienne in particular contours the foot effortlessly with a U-shaped topline and subtle 3/4" padded heel. These flats slip on and off with ease, making them an ideal chic errand-day shoe. Naturalizer offers this flat in hard-to-find sizes and wide fits for a custom-made feel. The Vivienne comes in 10 colorways, and at this price point, I can justify buying a couple pairs to cover my bases.  — Gabrielle Chase

Best travel-friendly: Allbirds Tree Breezer

Allbirds is probably better known for its Silicon Valley uniform-mandated sneakers like the Wool Runners and Tree Runners . But when you don't want to wear sneakers but still need the same comfort and support, you're better off with its flats, the Tree Breezer.

These are the flats you'll want to pack in your suitcase because a) they're very light and you can fold them up to maximize packing space, and b) you can walk around in them all day long.

Quell any fears you have of hobbling through a walking tour or calling it an early night because your feet have become one giant blister. The Breezers have bouncy outsoles made from sugarcane and soft, odor-minimizing Merino wool-lined insoles. The knit collar wraps onto your foot securely, and the rest of the shoe's knit body is breathable and feels silky smooth against your skin. Plus, they're machine-washable, so they're easy to take care of even if you get them all grubby on your trip.

Since the style is more sleek and formal than Allbirds' other shoes, they won't look out of place in a dressier environment. Instead of packing multiple pairs of shoes, you can just bring your all-in-one Tree Breezer flats. If you don't have a chance to try them first before you board your flight, don't worry — most of the Insider Reviews team didn't need to break them in . — Connie Chen

Read more in our full Allbirds Tree Breezer review and our comparison between Allbirds vs Rothy's flats .

Best sustainable: Rothy's Flat

Shoe brand Rothy's was born out of the desire to repurpose wasteful, single-use plastics into something beautiful and practical. All of its knit shoes are made from 100% post-consumer plastic water bottles, which are hot washed, sterilized, then fused into a fiber that is knit into yarn. 

The insoles contain recycled foam, while the rubber soles are carbon-free. The adhesives used are non-toxic and vegan. Even the packaging is made from post-consumer recycled materials and is biodegradable.

The lofty challenge of reducing your impact on the planet feels more manageable when you start with the things you use in your everyday life. Thanks to Rothy's, the endeavor won't compromise style or comfort.

Rothy's Flat is the choice for many modern working women because it boasts zero break-in time, a sleek look, and moisture-wicking breathability. You'll feel the difference immediately after slipping your feet in; the flats are very light and flexible, with a bit of give, and there aren't any uncomfortable seams or edges. They come with either round, square, or pointed-toe silhouettes.  

Keeping them in top shape is as easy as throwing them in the washing machine. You can also buy extra insoles to help prolong their life. After wearing them often (and you will because of their versatility), you might wonder if they'll actually hold up. But we've been wearing and washing our pairs for more than a year and they look and feel as good as they did on day one. — Connie Chen

To learn more, see our full Rothy's Flat review .

Best for wide feet: Margaux Demi

Ballet flats look deceptively simple. You know if you're reading this guide that it's hard to get the fit just right — some pairs gape, while others rely on uncomfortable heel elastics to stay on your foot. 

You won't encounter this problem with Margaux. It makes flats in a large range of sizes (from 3 through 14), including half sizes. Instead of suggesting you size up or down for wide and narrow feet, the company ensures fit precision by offering each size in Narrow, Medium, and Wide widths. There's also a made-to-order option for a truly custom fit. 

The Demi Flat from Margaux is a simple and elegant ballet flat. Senior editor Sally Kaplan, who has tried both Medium and Wide pairs of the flat , realized, "With all the walking I do, my feet end up swelling a bit, and the wide pair is more comfortable for long days out."

They feature plush foam padding to give your foot some support, as well as a small heel so you're not walking completely flat on the ground. The bow at the top of the shoe is adjustable in case you want to give your foot even more breathing room. 

You can get the flats in two luxuriously soft and flexible materials, Italian suede or Italian Napa leather, which each come in a small selection of colors that show off the materials beautifully.

Though they're more expensive than average at $245 a pair, the way we see it, it's better to own one pair of really well-made flats than five pairs of fun ones that fall apart quickly. — Connie Chen

Read our full Margaux Demi Flat review to hear more specifics about why we love them. 

Best luxury: Mansur Gavriel Dream Ballerina

There's something to be said for splurging on a really gorgeous pair of designer heels that you only wear on special occasions, but honestly, I've always felt that it makes more sense to spend that money on a practical pair you'll get more wear out of. A beautiful ballet flat that'll never go out of style is exactly the kind of shoe that deserves the designer treatment.

We think Mansur Gavriel's Dream Ballerinas are the absolute best designer flats out there. The $395 price tag isn't so unreasonable when compared to flats from brands like Chanel ($750+) or Louboutin ($500+), and the comfort rivals that of Everlane's Day flat , our best-overall pick on this list. 

The lambskin leather is buttery soft and the insoles provide enough cushion that the flats wear almost like a loafer. The bow on the shoe is actually functional, so you can use it to tighten or loosen the opening. The bottom of the shoe has just enough traction that I feel comfortable on slippery tile surfaces, which can't be said for other slick-bottomed designer pairs I've ultimately passed over. Ultimately, these flats have it all. And even after having tested every other pair of flats on this list, I can confidently say these are worth the cost.

As far as sizing goes, I am usually somewhere in between a 7.5 and 8, and I ordered a size 38 (the European equivalent of an 8). Mansur Gavriel's site says to order a full size up from your usual size, but in my experience, it's better to opt for either your true size or one half size up if you sometimes find your true size to be tight in other brands. — Sally Kaplan

Best mesh: M.Gemi The Contessa

One of the most trendy evolutions in the flats category is the mesh flat . If you're not keen on exposing your toes but can't imagine stuffing your feet into socks when the temperatures rise, these are the perfect alternative to sandals.

M.Gemi's Contessa serves as a comfortable dress shoe for days when you'd rather go barefoot. They're handmade in Italy with a double layer of mesh that's ventilating, yet still durable. Bound in high-quality Tuscan leather, they have a different effect in each of the three colors available, and all have a smooth suede interior. —  Gabrielle Chase Read about other styles tested from the brand in our full M.Gemi review .

Best for work: Marks & Spencer Suede Stain Resistant Flat Ballet Pumps

Take a look around the next time you're in the elevator at the office. Someone is bound to be clad in ballet flats, no matter what's on the agenda that day. Marks & Spencer's Suede Stain Resistant Flat Ballet Pumps are a versatile shoe option that is easily styled with workwear. You'll also notice they bear a significant resemblance to Chanel's iconic ballerinas , but at a fraction of the price. 

The Marks & Spencer flats feature patented Insolia Flex technology. This is meant to create a balance between the sole of the shoe and your foot's natural padding, so they're well suited for standing for extended amounts of time. The pretty bow detail makes them deceptively dainty despite the support they provide. 

The interior is padded with an antibacterial liner to spare any embarrassing odors that naturally occur when forgoing socks. And when you're commuting on a rainy day, you need not jeopardize looking neat and professional. The Marks & Spencer flats have a water-repellent, stain-resistant exterior to help keep them looking fresh and new. This simple suede option pairs well with outfits in year-round weather conditions. — Gabrielle Chase

Best Mary Jane: Vivaia Square-Toe Margot Mary Jane

Mary Janes have seen a sharp uptick in the wake of the coquette trend, but this sophisticated version has a square toe that adds more dimension to the classic silhouette. The Margot Mary Janes are extremely comfortable. — I took these on a long walk over concrete and sustained zero blisters while breaking them in.

I also compared Rothy's Mary Janes to Vivaia's, and while both brands claim to take a sustainable approach to women's footwear, I preferred Vivaia's attention to detail in their design. Plus, they're less expensive. They run slightly wide, but because their strap is adjustable, it won't pose any issue to people with narrow feet like mine.  I learned the hard way that this pair isn't ideal for wearing in heavy rain, but the breathable material is thankfully machine washable. The flexible upper is made from upcycled water bottles, and they're easy to fold up and pack in a tote bag.  —Gabrielle Chase

Read more in our full Vivaia shoes review . 

Know your true size. Flats are an intimate category of footwear since they're typically worn without socks. Take your best fitting shoes and check out where they're made.This will inform your knowledge of how different countries size up or down in comparison and help you find the closest match. 

Assess your shape. Whatever your silhouette, the shape of the flats you wear can make or break the fit, even if the length is correct. Notice the curve of your toes and try to find flats that won't squish them or leave gaps. Some toes are squared off, some rounded, others come to a point at the second toe. Your best chance at the right fit will depend on how your flats resemble your shape. 

Where to wear: If you're shopping for a one-night-only kind of flat versus an everyday pair, or if you're in a climate that relies on temperature-controlled materials, consider how your new flats will hold up. Your mode of transport when commuting to your destination also plays a part. Walking on asphalt to the office will have a different lasting effect on a pair of flats than stepping out of a limo once you've reached the function.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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