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The 10 Best Travel Umbrellas of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure/Elena Garcia

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

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

Best Overallf

Weatherman travel umbrella.

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Elena Garcia

Best Compact

Davek mini umbrella.

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

This umbrella is not suitable for more than one person.

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Maddy Baker

Best for Two People

Shedrain jumbo compact umbrella.

This umbrella provides more than ample coverage for two people.

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Alicia Dolieslager

Best Quick-Dry

Totes titan umbrella.

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Gemma Scott

Most Affordable

Sy compact travel umbrella.

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Cara Milhaven

Best Inverted Design

Siepasa inverted reverse upside down umbrella.

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Elise Wang

Most Stylish

Gustbuster automatic umbrella.

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Sophie Mendel

Best Prints

Shedrain compact umbrella.

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

This umbrella is best for one person.

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Anna Mejorada

EEZ-Y Compact Travel Umbrella

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Henry Yung

Best for Sun Protection

Sport-brella versa-brella.

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Kimberly Souza

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Other Travel Umbrellas We Liked

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for Buying Travel Umbrellas

Think about how compact you need it to be.

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

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

Prioritize durable materials

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

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

Look for useful features

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

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

Related Articles

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

Don't let rain and wind ruin your travels.

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.

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

Our top picks:

best overall travel umbrella

Samsonite windguard umbrella.

best value travel umbrella

Gaoyaing compact travel umbrella with case.

best compact and lightweight travel umbrella

Totes mini manual umbrella.

best durable travel umbrella

Weatherman travel umbrella.

most stylish travel umbrella

Rifle paper co. garden party umbrella.

best travel umbrella on amazon

Repel the original portable travel umbrella.

best luxury travel umbrella

Tumi small auto close umbrella.

most popular travel umbrella

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

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

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

Dimensions: 12" folded | Weight: 0.82 lbs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dimensions: Not listed | Weight: Not listed

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

Dimensions: 11.5" folded | Weight: 15 oz.

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

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

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

Dimensions: 7" folded | Weight: 8 oz.

What to consider when buying a travel umbrella

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

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

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

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

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

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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

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

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The 10 Best Travel Umbrellas, Tested & Reviewed

By Claire Volkman

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

The one thing that I absolutely never forget to pack: a travel umbrella. No matter where I’m going, except for the Wadi Rum or the Sahara Desert maybe, there’s bound to be some inclement weather. Rain, sleet, thunderstorms; no destination is without them. Having an umbrella on hand allows you to keep your travel plans intact, and even see the sights in some places without all the crowds.

However, the task of picking an umbrella is about as daunting as picking a suitcase . With about a million options to choose from and all of them claiming to be “the best travel umbrella,” it’s no wonder so many just pick the cheapest option and go. However, not all umbrellas are created equally—as anyone who has found themselves with one completely inverted during a torrential downpour will tell you. Below, we’ve rounded up the best of the best travel umbrellas, keeping features like durability, wind-resistance, and size in mind.

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

Discover the best travel umbrellas:

• Best overall: Weatherman travel umbrella
• Most compact: Davek The Davek mini
• Best for cities: Amy's Automatic umbrella
• Most affordable: Repel windproof travel umbrella
• Most durable: Blunt Metro umbrella
• Best splurge: Pasotti Tropical umbrella
• Most lightweight: Totes mini manual umbrella
• Best patterns: Rifle Paper Company umbrella
• Most wind-resistant: Davek Elite umbrella
• Most sustainable: Totes recycled canopy umbrella

Best overall travel umbrella

Why we love it : Sturdy, wind-resistant, lightweight, and incredibly compact, the Weatherman travel umbrella is undeniably the best on the market. This umbrella has a serious fanbase, with hundreds of nearly perfect reviews on Amazon. It is surprisingly lightweight, and can easily fit in a carry-on or tote bag . It has an automatic open and close feature, a reinforced fiberglass base, and a water-resistant, Teflon-coated fabric. Plus, it shields winds up to 45 MPH and is tough enough to withstand even the heaviest of rainfall.

Worth noting : There aren’t many things to complain about this umbrella, however, it is a bit pricey coming in at $69. However, with a lifetime warranty, it’s well worth the splurge.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 38"; Closed length: 12" Weight: 0.85 oz. Carrying sleeve included: Yes

Most compact

Why we love it: When they say mini, they mean mini. The Davek Mini is so small and compact that it fits in the palm of your hand. Measuring less than 7 inches when closed, you can easily stash this umbrella in your carry-on, backpack , or even a jacket pocket. Plus, it weighs less than a pound, making it almost unnoticeable when not in use. Made from reinforced fiberglass, it also comes in 10 bright colors so you can coordinate your umbrella with the rest of your outfit.

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

Dimensions : Open diameter: 38"; Closed length: 7"

Weight : 0.8 oz.

Carrying sleeve included : Yes

Best for cities

Why we love it : With a sleek and stylish small wooden or plastic handle, this lightweight umbrella features a wind-defying 8-rib canopy that’s also UPF 50+ certified, meaning it provides adequate sun protection, too. Small enough to walk down the busy streets of Chicago during a rainstorm without the awkward “bump and sideswipe,” it fits easily in a work tote, briefcase, or backpack. Plus, it features an automatic open and close, and comes in over a dozen bright and bold patterns and colorways, making it easy to stand out in a sea of black and blue canopies. It also comes with a five-year global warranty and is pretty affordable at only $40.

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

Dimensions : Open diameter: 38.1"; Closed length: 21.6"

Weight : 0.76 oz.

Most affordable

Why we love it : You can’t go wrong with this incredibly durable, lightweight, and affordable Repel travel umbrella. With over 36,000 4.5-star Amazon reviews, this is an overwhelming crowd favorite among travelers, worker bees, families, and everyone in between. I tested the durability during a heavy summer rainstorm in Chicago, and it stood up surprisingly well thanks to its 9-rib canopy, heavy-duty Teflon-coated fabric, and non-slip rubber grip. Plus, the automatic open and close feature makes it super easy to go in and out of buildings and restaurants without getting soaked or stuck. Another thing to note was how well it stood up to Chicago’s infamous winds—not bending, flipping, or even flapping during big gusts. The best part? It’s only $27 on Amazon and comes in 10 colors.

Worth noting: We didn’t find any problems with the umbrella, but some reviewers found that it didn’t stand up to heavier winds and isn't as lightweight as other comparable brands.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 42"; Closed length: 11.5"

Weight : 0.93 oz.

Carrying sleeve included : No

Most durable

Why we love it : This heavy-duty umbrella stands up to even the strongest rainstorms, and offers supreme coverage thanks to its patented wind-tip rounded edges, which work like mini umbrellas. It’s also built with a 360-degree spinning canopy which prevents it from breaking when dropped or knocked over. It’s extremely wind-resistant and has been tested to withstand the winds and rains of a category one hurricane. It’s also made from rip-resistant pongee fabric that is also super quick to dry, so you can easily go back indoors without needing a plastic cover.

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

Dimensions : Open diameter: 39"; Closed length: 15"

Weight : 0.85 oz.

Best splurge

Why we love it : If looking chic is just as important as staying dry, this is the umbrella for you. Handcrafted by Italian umbrella maker Pasotti, the canopy will stop people in their tracks—with a beautiful tropical pattern in sage, gold, and dark green. When I was walking in downtown Chicago, I had four people stop to ask me about this umbrella (and then a few ask to buy it from me). Although I originally gravitated to this umbrella for its looks, the functionality is why it’s my absolute go-to. The canopy extends 102 centimeters and has a 93 centimeter shaft, meaning I’m not going to get pelted by rain when it’s windy (which is everyday in Chicago).

Worth noting: At $275, this is by far the most expensive on the list.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 40"

Most lightweight

Why we love it : They weren’t kidding when they said this is one of the most lightweight umbrellas on the market, weighing only 8 ounces. Small enough to fit into most purses , carry-ons, totes, and computer bags, this umbrella doesn’t take up any more space than it needs too. One drawback with the size is that you need to activate the canopy manually (no quick release button). However, the handle is sturdy and the canopy provides ample coverage for most light-to-moderate rain storms. I love the fact that it comes in multiple colors and patterns, and the price makes it easy to stock up on a few (only $25 at Amazon).

Worth noting: Due to the size, it’s not super wind-resistant and wouldn’t be a great pick if you’re facing a heavy downpour or storm.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 43"; Closed length: 11.2"

Weight : 7.8 ounces

Best patterns

Why we love it : If you’re someone who buys a bottle of wine based on the label, these umbrellas are for you. Known for its bold, whimsical, and delicate patterns and floral designs, Rifle Paper Company’s umbrellas are true works of art. Each umbrella also features a sleek wooden handle and an automatic open/close feature.

Worth noting: This is not the umbrella to buy if you’re looking for durability, extreme wind resistance, or more bells and whistles. This basic umbrella provides decent coverage in light rain, but isn’t meant for heavy winds or downpours.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 43"; Closed length: 11"

Most wind-resistant

Why we love it : There’s a reason 81 people have given this umbrella a nearly perfect rating on Amazon—it actually holds up. Sure, it may be a splurge at $159, but it is well worth the price tag when you see how it holds up. Surprisingly compact, the canopy extends 50 inches, giving you extreme protection against even heavy rains. Plus, it’s small enough to fit in a carry-on, backpack, or large tote bag. The fabric is 201-thread count, making it luxurious to touch but also extremely powerful against rain. The best feature is the wind-tension frame system, which can withstand heavy winds and prevent inversion. We tested this against a very blustery 55 MPH wind day in Chicago, and there was barely any flapping or movement at all from the tough canopy.

Worth noting: It’s expensive, but comes with a lifetime warranty and replacement guarantee.

Dimensions : Open diameter: 50"; Closed length: 35"

Weight : 1 lb.

Most sustainable

Why we love it : Shopping sustainably is more important now than ever, and that extends to umbrellas, too. Tote’s recycled umbrella is made from 100 percent Recycled PET plastics, equating to about 7.5 recycled water bottles per umbrella. The handle and strap are also made from all renewable resources, like bamboo and hemp, and the production process uses less water overall. In terms of coverage, the Pet umbrella features Tote’s patented NeverWet invisible coating allowing the rain to drip off the umbrella 4 percent faster, leaving you with a drier umbrella once indoors.

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

Dimensions : Open diameter: 43"; Closed length: 11.5"

Weight : 1.15 lbs.

Best Travel Umbrella Recommendations (By Our Awesome Readers!)

TRAVEL , Travel Accessories

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

Best Travel Umbrella

Written by: Michelle Nati

Table Of Contents

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

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

Top Umbrella Travel Picks

LANBRELLA Compact Travel Umbrella

Travel Beach Umbrella: LANBRELLA

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

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

GAOYAING Mini Travel Umbrella

Small Travel Umbrella: GAOYAING 

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

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

Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella

Lightweight Travel Umbrella: Rain-Mate

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

Blondo Villa is a solid waterproof boot–learn why!

EEZ-Y Compact Travel Umbrella

Compact Travel Umbrella: EEZ-Y 

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

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

Repel Windproof Umbrella

Travel Umbrella Amazon Best Buy: Repel

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

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

totes Titan Foldable Umbrella

totes Travel Umbrella: Titan

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

Take a look at these lightweight fall jackets !

Knirps Duomatic Umbrella

Mini Travel Umbrella: Knirps

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

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

Umbrella Accessories

Xinda Carabiner Clip 

Travel Umbrella Clip: Xinda

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

Alternatives to an Umbrella

Columbia Arcadia II Waterproof Jacket | Sizes XXS-3XL

Columbia Arcadia II

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

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

Check out our full Colombia jacket review !

Eddie Bauer Rainfoil Packable Jacket | Sizes XXS-2XL

Eddie Bauer Rainfoil

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

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

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

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

Cole Haan Packable Jacket 

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

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

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

SaphiRose Hooded Zip Up Poncho

SaphiRose Poncho

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

Here are the best waterproof jackets for travel!

Product Comparison Chart

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

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

How Do I Pack My Umbrella?

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

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

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

For more travel accessories, please read:

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

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The 10 Best Travel Umbrellas for Every Type of Traveler

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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

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

Best Compact Travel Umbrellas

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

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

EEZ-Y Compact Travel Umbrella

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

Davek Solo Umbrella

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

Most Durable Travel Umbrellas

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

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

Blunt Metro Travel Umbrella

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

GustBuster Metro

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

Best Cheap Travel Umbrellas

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

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

Totes TRX Manual Mini Trekker

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

Lewis N. Clark Travel Umbrella

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

Best Travel Umbrellas for Heavy Rain

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

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

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

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

Bodyguard Windproof Travel Umbrella

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

Best Large Umbrellas for Couples

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

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

Prospo 62 Inch Large Travel Umbrella

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

Kalolary 62 Inch Extra Oversize Large Compact Golf Umbrella

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

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• 52 things we love

We’ve Inverted and Drenched Almost 50 Umbrellas. This One is Our Favorite.

By James Austin

James Austin is a writer covering games and hobbies, which means he is in a constant cycle of learning board games and teaching them to people.

Umbrellas are the kind of thing you don’t think about buying until the day you need one. That’s why city streets on rainy days are often littered with the broken remains of cheap umbrellas, quickly purchased from whatever convenience store was closest when the skies opened up.

But if you have an umbrella that is resilient, flexible, and small enough to carry with you all the time, you can avoid sacrificing another drugstore purchase to blustery winds. After testing 48 umbrellas since 2014 and researching many more, the Repel Easy Touch Umbrella is our favorite.

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

The best umbrella for most people.

This is a solidly built, easy-to-find umbrella that holds up in high winds. It also comes in a variety of colors.

Buying Options

price may vary by color or style

Tim Heffernan, one of the early testers and writers of our umbrella guide, used the Repel for more than a year and reported that after being stuffed in backpacks and subjected to the worst New York City had to offer, it held up well. He's since become more of a hooded raincoat guy but says the Repel is a good choice if you're committed to umbrellas.

The Repel excelled in all of our tests because it’s the right mix of portable and powerful, standing up to the harshest elements and bouncing back easily in the rare cases we managed to get it to invert. It’s comfortable to hold, and it collapses to 11½ inches, making it easy to store.

We put our test models through blizzards, inverted them multiple times by holding them directly perpendicular to the ground during a storm, and drenched them in the shower to gauge their coverage area. The Repel has nine support ribs (the structure the cloth stretches over), compared with most collapsible umbrellas’ eight or even six, so the Repel is exceptionally resistant to inverting.

The biggest reason the Repel stands apart is that if it does get turned inside out by the wind, its frame can spring back into shape and continue covering your head.

The original version of this post was part of our 2020 “52 Things We Love” series, an ode to Wirecutter picks that have withstood the test of time. Read the entire series . This version was edited by Rachelle Bergstein.

Meet your guide

James Austin

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

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella Review

A portable umbrella that can withstand most storms

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

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

TripSavvy / Stephanie Vermillion

Sturdy build that withstands wind

Waterproof canopy material

Auto-open and auto-close button

Portable size

Lifetime guarantee

No UV protection

While the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella folds down to 11.5 inches, its durable waterproof canopy expands to keep you dry during even the windiest rainstorms.

• Performance
• Portability
• Competition
• Final Verdict

We purchased the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella so our reviewer could thoroughly test and assess it. Keep reading for our full product review.

Rainy days bring more than just raindrops. Whether you’re exploring a waterfront pier or a blustery street bordered by buildings, storms typically mean rain and wind. The latter is the toughest to deal with when it comes to umbrellas, especially travel umbrellas that sometimes seem to prioritize compact size over quality. Many styles flip then break when tested with strong winds, but the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella doesn’t just promise to withstand wind; it’s named for this feature. 

The Repel team touts nine fiberglass ribs as the reason this travel umbrella works through the windiest of storms (most umbrellas have only six or eight). However, given my success rate with “windproof” umbrellas is bleak at best, I didn’t take their word for it. Instead, I took my Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella into the blustery streets of New York City to see how it fared. Read on to see how it went. 

Performance: Sturdy through storms and wind 

I’ve grown accustomed to a never-ending umbrella cycle in NYC. I buy a cheap one, use it once, then ruin it because of the Big Apple’s wind, particularly given I live near the waterfront. Considering I can’t trust umbrellas like these at home, there’s no way I can count on them when I travel. So, when I saw the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella promised to actually be windproof, I hit the waterfront streets of Manhattan to test it out for some upcoming trips.

This was probably the tenth umbrella I’ve used in NYC’s stormy spring weather, but so far, it’s been the best when it comes to outlasting wind.

Much to my surprise (and delight), it delivered on its promises. While competitors’ umbrellas struggled through the same rainstorm, the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella withstood the rain and actually felt sturdier—not like it was going to whisk me away Mary Poppins -style—which had me close to disbelief. This was probably the tenth umbrella I’ve used in NYC’s stormy spring weather , but so far, it’s been the best when it comes to outlasting wind. 

For this, I can thank the three-fold chrome-plated metal shaft, sturdy metal frame, and flex-frame technology. This stability in and of itself made the umbrella—touted by multiple brands as being one of the best on the market—worth every penny. Even better? It kept everything but my legs and feet dry during the storm. 

Additionally, the canopy’s waterproof Teflon material made stowing the umbrella post-storm much tidier. This umbrella didn’t come with a protective travel sleeve like others I’ve owned, so I brought a plastic bag along just in case, but I didn’t need it. This umbrella was dry in minutes, which meant I could easily throw it in my purse without worrying about water damaging my belongings. 

Design: Opens quickly and easily

Beyond the waterproof Teflon material, one of the best design features of this umbrella is its quick-open functionality. The auto-open and auto-close button on the handle helped me speedily fend off the rain, which is particularly great when getting on and off buses and other forms of transportation. Pair this with a top-of-the-line rain jacket , and I’d make it through any city’s toughest storms virtually untouched. 

The auto-open and auto-close button on the handle helped me speedily fend off the rain.

Another helpful and often-overlooked feature is the ergonomic rubber handle and wrist strap. This easy-to-grip texture keeps the umbrella from slipping when wet. It did exactly as was promised and never once slipped out of my hand.

Portability: Compact and perfect for carry-ons

The Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella may reach 42 inches when expanded, but it packs down to a tight 11.5 inches when shut. No larger than a water bottle, it fits easily in carry-on bags and the side pockets of virtually any backpack. While I easily carried mine around NYC in my modestly sized purse, I’m already planning to stash it in my travel backpack so I don’t forget it on my next trip.

No larger than a water bottle, it fits easily in carry-on bags and the side pockets of virtually any backpack. 

Price: Buy it once, buy it for life

Given the quality construction and Repel brand’s lifetime guarantee, if you purchase this umbrella—around $25—you’ll have it for life. That’s a small price to pay for the windproof travel umbrella’s functionality and portability. 

Competition: The top travel umbrella choice

Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella : I tested both of these products. While the Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella and the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella are similar in size—both fold down to between 12 and 11.5 inches (with the Repel umbrella on the smaller end)—the Rain-Mate couldn’t match the Repel umbrella’s results. The Rain-Mate flipped after minutes in the wind, while the Repel umbrella withstood all gusts. Both do have similar rubber handles, which make gripping easy, and both are around the same $20 price point. When it comes to bang for your buck, though, the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella undoubtedly reigns supreme. 

Bodyguard Travel Umbrella : The Bodyguard Travel Umbrella , which I also reviewed, closes down to the same size as the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella, but it’s 4 inches wider when fully expanded, which means you can comfortably fit two people under it. With the Repel umbrella, it’s a tight squeeze. But that’s where the Bodyguard’s advantages end. The Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella is sturdier than the Bodyguard, although the Bodyguard does give it a run for its money (it didn’t flip in the wind, but it came very close). Both canopies are made of similar waterproof materials, but the Repel umbrella has a sturdier build that feels much more durable. 

With a sturdy yet portable build and the ability to withstand wind, the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella is a wise investment for travel and daily use. It will keep you dry during storms and your belongings dry when stashed in a suitcase or bag.

• Product Name Windproof Travel Umbrella
• Product Brand Repel Umbrella
• Price $24.95
• Weight 1 lbs.
• Product Dimensions 12.25 x 3.5 x 2.5 in.
• Color Black, navy blue, blue sky, red, pink, yellow, pin stripe, red/black, starry night, slate blue, rainbow
• Material Teflon canopy, metal shaft, rubber handle
• Warranty Lifetime guarantee

Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella Review

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The Best Travel Umbrella To Keep You Dry in 2024

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

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

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

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

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

In A Hurry? Check out these travel umbrellas.

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

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

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

• > Lightweight
• > Fully reversible designs

HERO Travel Umbrella

• > Comprehensive and robust ribs
• > Teflon coverage

Goothdurs Windproof Travel Umbrella

• > Colorful design scheme
• > Pongee material

LANBRELLA Inverted Umbrella

• > Inverted design
• > Handle slips

Kate Spade Raindrop Travel Umbrella

• > Convenient wrist strap
• > Automatic open capabilities

Umenice Automatic Travel Umbrella

• > Made out of steel and fiberglass materials

BodyGuard Travel Umbrella

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

Lewis N. Clark Travel Umbrella

• > Variety of fun colors
• > Lightweight rain protection

EEZ-Y Travel Umbrella

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

AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella

• > Button-operated open and close features

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#1 – Best Overall: Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

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

• 11.5 inches long
• 36.5 inches wide

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

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

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

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

#2 – Most Portable: HERO Travel Umbrella

Meet the most portable umbrella: HERO Travel Umbrella

• 13.74 inches long
• 40 inches Wide

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

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

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

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

#3 – Best Wind Protection: Goothdurs Windproof Travel Umbrella

Our pick for best wind protection is Goothdurs Windproof Travel Umbrella

• 12.4 inches long
• 40 inches long

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

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

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

#4 – Most Convenient: LANBRELLA Inverted Umbrella

LANBRELLA Inverted Umbrella is one of the most convenient umbrella

• 42 inches wide
• 32 inches long

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

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

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

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

#5 – Most Stylish: Kate Spade Raindrop Travel Umbrella

Meet the most stylish umbrella: Kate Spade Raindrop Travel Umbrella

• 40 inches wide
• 12.75 inches long

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

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

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#6 – Best Lightweight: Umenice Automatic Travel Umbrella

Umenice Automatic Travel Umbrella is our pick for best lightweight umbrella

• 39 inches wide

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

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

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

#7 – Best Casing: BodyGuard Travel Umbrella

Our pick for best casing umbrella is BodyGuard Travel Umbrella

• 13.3 inches long
• 37 inches wide

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

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

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

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

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

• 11 inches long
• 38 inches wide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#10 – Most Affordable: AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella

Our pick for most affordable umbrella is AmazonBasics Automatic Travel Umbrella

• 11.2 inches long

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Compactness

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do I really need a travel umbrella?

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

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

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

What are the most compact travel umbrellas?

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

What is the sturdiest travel umbrella?

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

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Final Thoughts

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

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

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

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

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

Aiden Freeborn

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Six Travel Umbrellas That Will Fit in Your Bag

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The Best Umbrellas to Help You Ride Out the Rain

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Best Overall Weatherman The Travel Umbrella Read more

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

Best Upgrade Davek Solo Read more

Best Luxury Full-Size Umbrella Davek Elite Read more

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

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

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

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

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Best Overall

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

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

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

Best Budget Umbrella

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

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

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

Best Upgrade

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

Best Luxury Full-Size Umbrella

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

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

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

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Best Kids’ Umbrella

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

A Good Midsize Umbrella

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

Best Tiny Umbrella for Travel (or for Kids)

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

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

A Clear Bubble Umbrella

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

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

Smartest (and Safest) Design

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

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

An Unbreakable Umbrella

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

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

Best for Sporting Events

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

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

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

Honorable Mentions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Avoid These Umbrellas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Umbrella Tips!

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

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

How to Avoid Losing Your Umbrella

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

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

Adrienne So

Eric Ravenscraft

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