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No matter the season, when traveling somewhere with cold weather, you should be equipped accordingly. Have you not shopped for the best travel jackets for women yet? A good light jacket for women can become indispensable while on the road.
Even when headed to sunny destinations, if you’re from a wintery country like me you still need a cute women’s travel jacket to keep warm and dry on your way to and from the airport.
Below, you’ll find a selection of eight best lightweight jackets for travel. Scroll to see the exact styles that I wear on my travels.
And – for when it gets even colder, check out my list of the best hoodies for travel (all women’s and with pockets!).
My Pick: Best Jacket for Travel
The Avoogue Rain Coat is one of my favorite lightweight jackets for women which is why it’s first on the list of recommendations below.
I have a packable travel jacket like that and it is the best travel coat for me. It’s always one of the first items in my luggage to ensure that I’m ready for wet and windy weather.
Why You Need a Good Lightweight Travel Jacket
Weather is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get. Especially when traveling it’s important to be prepared for various weather conditions.
It’s also important to make sure your luggage is easy to carry and choose the best lightweight jacket for travel.
Weather resistance and lightweight are the main criteria that I consider when shopping for the best jackets for traveling and each of my recommendations in this post fits those criteria perfectly.
No matter if you’re looking for the best travel jacket for Europe, a women’s travel jacket with hidden pockets, or an all-purpose travel winter jacket this post has got you covered.
Combine it with lightweight skirts for travel and these best shoes for Europe, and you’ll be looking your best whether you decide to travel to Europe or elsewhere around the globe.
Overview of the Best Travel Jackets for Women
Here’s a concise overview of the best jackets for travel. You can read more about each of them further below.
| Name | Picture | Colors / Pattern | Price Guide | More Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avoogue Raincoat |   |
25 colors/patterns | $ | Check prices |
| Arthas Light Rain Trench Coat |   |
8 colors | $ | Check prices |
| Little Donkey Outdoor Jacket |   |
39 colors | $ | Check prices |
| Gimecen Soft Fleece Jacket |   |
15 colors | $ | Check prices |
| Columbia Heavenly Hooded Jacket |
  |
15 colors | $$ | Check prices |
| The North Face Aconcagua Jacket |   |
14 colors | $$$ | Check prices |
| CCTOO Casual Open Front Blazer |   |
14 colors/patterns | $ | Check prices |
| Charles River Drop Tail Jacket |   |
3 colors | $$ | Check prices |
What to Consider When Buying a Travel Jacket (Women’s)
No matter which of these women’s lightweight jackets for travel you’ll end up purchasing, these are the main things you should consider when picking the perfect one for you:
Material
The material of your jacket is an important consideration when choosing so let’s do a quick rundown of the materials used in my recommended list of best travel jackets.
Polyester is a plastic-based material that’s soft, water-resistant, and lightweight. It’s often used in windbreakers and making the most lightweight women’s jackets for traveling but it’s thin and not a great insulator by itself.
Cotton is an excellent insulator. It’s a natural fiber that’s soft and fluffy but it’s not waterproof or windproof.
It’s also slightly on the heavier side so most of the womens lightweight jackets listed below don’t have cotton as their primary material.
However, it’s common to blend polyester and cotton together to achieve an ideal balance of insulation and weather protection to make the best jackets for travel.
Nylon is a synthetic material known for its strength and durability. It’s water-resistant and is a great insulator, used in both the outer shells of jackets as well as inner linings.
Fleece is made with polyester fibers so it’s weather-resistant. It’s also softer than cotton and highly insulating, combining the best of both worlds and making it the ideal fabric for a lightweight travel jacket.
Pockets
Pockets are an essential part of travel jackets for women. For me, the more the better, because I’m generally carrying the most things when traveling.
Jackets for travel can be made with hand pockets, breast pockets, and inner pockets all of which are good for compartmentalizing and carrying your essentials.
Closures can be designed with a zipper, a button, or velcro strips; the zipper being my personal favorite.
Pockets without closures can be ideal for slipping your hands in and out for warmth, but things can easily fall out of them. A women’s travel jacket with pockets, and plenty of them, is a great asset for any journey.
Shape
Travel jackets for women can be either form-fitting and good for accentuating your figure or they can be less form-fitting and roomy, allowing for more layers to be comfortably worn underneath.
Additionally, many travel jackets are designed with a drawstring waist so that they can be adjusted between form-fitting and roominess.
I prefer the versatility of the drawstring and think it creates the best travel jacket for women because sometimes I want to look stylish and sometimes I want a bit more room to stack layers of warmth underneath.
Having a nice shape is generally the best jacket for travel in Europe because it keeps you looking stylish.
Check out also my other reviews of travel-related products:
- best travel money belt to hide cash, passport, and other valuables
- best luggage tags for international travel so that your luggage always stands out
- best travel irons – a small travel iron to bring anywhere with you
- best travel deodorant – compact, practical, and effective
- best walking shoes for Europe – they can handle cobblestones and still look pretty on you
- best long travel skirts – with pockets!
- best travel jackets for women – lightweight and stylish
- activated charcoal for travel – for whenever the stomach bug bites
- best travel gifts for him – a universal guide to best travel gifts for men
- best travel hoodies for women – all with pockets
Review of the Best Jackets for Travel
But enough chitchat – let’s see all the top ladies’ travel coats:
Avoogue Rain Coat
The Avoogue is one of the most lightweight traveling jackets for women and is extremely packable so it can always be kept handy for wet weather protection.
It has a comfortable fit, it’s great as a light autumn coat, and is loose enough to add layers of warmth underneath as needed making it possibly the best lightweight travel jacket, in my opinion.
What’s more, if you’re looking for a plus size travel rain jacket, this one comes in 3X-Large, too.
I have a similar black jacket but chose this color that pops for you. Of course, there are more colors available including black.
Key Features:
- 100% polyester
- Waterproof & windproof
- Lightweight and easily packable
- Zipper closure
Arthas Light Rain Trench Coat
The Arthas not only protects you from wet weather but it’s also a stylish travel jacket for women. It’s one of the most universal travel jackets on this list.
It’s a versatile travel jacket with a detachable hood to handle your various needs and create different looks.
An adjustable drawstring at the waist allows you to enhance your figure and look great, not just on photos.
Key Features:
- Outer layer: 98% polyester / Inner lining: 2% linen
- Adjustable drawstring waist
- Detachable hood
- Zipper and button closure
- Inner lining for extra warmth
Little Donkey Outdoor Jacket
The Little Donkey Outdoor Jacket is an excellent lightweight jacket for travel and is an ideal mix of style and functionality.
This woman’s travel jacket comes with an attached hood and drawstring for an adjustable fit and for times when you don’t need the hood it can be rolled up and stored in the collar.
Zippable hand pockets allow for secured storage and hand warming, and inner pockets allow you to store your phone and other valuable items safely.
Plus, if you’re looking for petite travel jackets, the Little Donkey starts at X-small.
This is the most outdoorsy travel jacket on this list and is a crucial part of gear on any hiking trip.
Key Features:
- 100% polyester
- Plenty of pockets
- Adjustable hood rolls into the collar for storage
- Zipper closure with a velcro flap
Gimecen Soft Fleece Jacket
This polar fleece is a lightweight warm jacket for travel, it’s super soft and it comes in many pleasing color choices to fit your personal style.
Made from 100% polyester microfleece this lightweight travel jacket provides the perfect amount of comfort.
You can use it as an upper layer in dry weather conditions, or complete it with an insulating outer layer when it starts raining.
Its zippered closure keeps your body snug and warm, while the zippered pockets keep your valuables secure.
Key Features:
- 100% polyester
- Soft and comfortable
- Lightweight
- Zipper closure
Columbia Heavenly Hooded Jacket
The Heavenly Hooded Jacket is a great puffy jacket for travel and an ideal balance between lightweight and warmth.
It features an Omni-Heat Reflective Polyester lining that keeps you dry and warm by reflecting your body heat inwards where it counts.
Comfort cuffs with thumbholes add extra warmth for your hands, when needed, making this an ideal light travel jacket for autumn and light winter.
Key Features:
- 100% polyester including filling (no feathers)
- Omni-heat reflective polyester lining
- Comfort cuffs with thumbholes
- Zipper closure
The North Face Aconcagua Jacket
The puffer jacket is a great choice for extra warmth. This warm travel jacket is also lightweight and form-fitting to create a flattering shape.
Synthetic insulation perfectly maintains your body heat and a Durable Water-Repellent (DWR) finish makes this North Face travel jacket (women’s) completely windproof. It’s fitting for both a casual look in town or activities in the wild.
You can safely travel in the dead of winter with this travel jacket and still feel comfortably warm.
Key Features:
- Synthetic insulation
- Durable water-repellent (DWR) finish
- Traditional goose down fill
- Form-fitting
- Hand warming pockets
- Zipper closure
CCTOO Casual Open Front Blazer
This easy care travel blazer prioritizes style and elegance and is the best women’s travel coat for in-town wear.
A 60% polyester and 40% cotton blend makes this blazer soft, warm, and breathable.
The stylish collar is great for showing off your neckline and long sleeves create a more formal look, making this women’s travel jacket an excellent choice for warmth and style.
This casual blazer gets my vote as the best jacket for European travel. Just if you’re one of those who are always cold, wear a warm sweater underneath or at least a big scarf to cover your body on the front.
Key Features:
- 60% polyester, 40% cotton
- Stylish and warm
- Soft and breathable
- Elegant texture
Charles River Drop Tail Jacket
This stylish winter travel jacket features a 100% nylon shell for superb weather protection and a nylon lining for heat retention and warmth.
Its removable hood provides versatility as you need it and a hip-length hem for extra coverage makes this one of the best lightweight travel jackets that can be worn anywhere.
Key Features:
- 100% nylon shell and lining
- Removable hood
- Hip-length hem
- Zipper closure with button flap
The Ultimate “Hack” for Rainy Travel
When the rain gets too heavy and prolonged, a standard rainproof jacket may not be enough.
Usually, it’s often enough to have a standard travel jacket and just throw a poncho over if it gets especially rainy. Such as this HLKZONE raincoat made of plastic that’s guaranteed to keep you dry.
It comes in a pack of two, has a drawstring hood and elastic cuff sleeves, enough space for a backpack underneath, as well as allowing for breathability despite the plastic material.
Travel Jacket FAQ’s
What features should I look for in a travel jacket for women?
When choosing a jacket for traveling, consider features like lightweight and packable design, weather resistance (waterproof or water-resistant), versatility, breathability, ample pockets for storage, and comfort. Check whether your preferred women’s travel coat has a hood, too.
Are travel jackets suitable for different climates?
Yes, to an extent. Some travel jackets are designed to be versatile and adaptable to various climates more than others. While you can look for jackets that offer layering options, such as removable liners or adjustable hoods, you can also consider a thin jacket and put on a hoodie too when needed.
Can travel jackets for women be stylish as well as functional?
Absolutely. That’s what I’ve tried to go for in this list. Many brands offer travel jackets that combine style and functionality. Look for jackets with flattering cuts, different color options, and designs that can be dressed up or down to suit your personal style.
Are travel jackets easy to pack?
Yes, one of the key advantages of a good womens travel jacket is the packability. Look for jackets that are lightweight and can be easily compressed or folded into a compact size to fit in your luggage or backpack.
Do travel jackets offer protection against rain and wind?
Again, to an extent. You can go for a more professional jacket that’ll have a full-on insulation against the elements. The hiking jackets typically feature that and they’re on the pricier side. They are made from water-resistant or waterproof materials, with features like sealed seams, adjustable cuffs, and hoods to keep you dry and protected.
Can I wear a travel jacket for outdoor activities like hiking?
Most definitely. Travel jackets are often designed to be versatile and suitable for outdoor activities. Look for jackets with features like reinforced shoulders or elbows, adjustable hems, and ventilation options for enhanced comfort during active pursuits. I use almost all my lightweight coats for hiking, as well as urban exploration.
How do I clean and maintain a travel jacket?
Cleaning and maintenance instructions can vary depending on the jacket’s material. It’s best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations provided with the jacket. Most of the jackets on this list are machine-washable. The more professional ones, which are rain-resistant, may require professional cleaning to keep their functionality.
Are travel jackets only meant for long trips or can they be used for everyday wear?
Travel jackets can certainly be used for everyday wear as well. Their functionality and versatility make them suitable for various occasions, whether you’re traveling or going about your daily activities. I don’t have my wardrobe divided into everyday wear and travel. In order to stay sustainable, it’s recommended to go for styles of light weight womens jackets that can be used anytime, not just on a trip.
Are travel jackets available in different sizes and styles?
Yes, travel jackets are typically available in a range of sizes and styles to accommodate different body types and personal preferences. It’s important to check the sizing guide provided by the manufacturer to find the right fit for you.
Can I wear a travel jacket as my only outerwear option during my trip?
It depends on the climate and the activities you have planned. In milder weather or when traveling light, a travel jacket can serve as your primary outerwear option. However, in extreme cold or specific outdoor activities, you may need additional layers or specialized jackets for optimal comfort and protection. Use common sense and layer on when in doubt!
I hope this post helps you to intelligently consider and choose the best jacket for travel and I wish you warm, dry, and lightweight travels in the near future.