If you’re wondering what are the best lightweight jackets for women who love to travel, then this post is for you.
Before we dive into the lineup, let’s talk about a few things to keep in mind when packing outerwear:
- Your travel destination. For example, this past June, I traveled to Ireland and mistakenly thought they had the same summer weather as we do in New York. Boy was I wrong! There were a few rainy days when I wished I had packed my wind-resistant rain jacket!
- Your itinerary. This is important because if your travel plans include dressier events, you probably want to pack a cute jacket. Or you might want to bring a packable jacket that is both functional and stylish. Trust me, rain jackets can be trendy while also protecting you in an unexpected downpour!
- Suitcase space. If overpacking could be a personality trait, I would have to claim it. I’ve been known to swap out necessary travel clothes so I could fit my leather jacket in my carry-on. As someone who loves options, but also loves traveling light, you can see the problem I face. My faux fur coat doesn’t want to hear this, but packable lightweight jackets are much kinder to my suitcase space.
Now that we’ve mentally mapped out our trip, let’s get to the fun part —the best travel jackets. If you need outerwear inspiration or are in search for your next perfect travel jacket, I’ve got you covered.
The Best Packable Lightweight Women’s Jackets
You might be thinking, what makes a jacket packable? Essentially, packable jackets can be rolled up and stored in one of their own pocket, usually a zippered pocket. These are great for traveling since they won’t take up precious suitcase space.
To avoid wrinkles, look for jackets that are made with wrinkle-resistant materials like polyester, rayon and wool. For cold weather, packable down jackets have the same functionality but with added insulation.
For extra warmth, you can always layer a sweatshirt underneath your jacket.
Here are my go-to packable travel jackets:
Orvis Earth-Friendly Pack-And-Go Jacket
Cotopaxi Teca Calido Hooded Jacket
Ghost Whisperer 2 Packable 800-Fill-Power Down Jacket
REI Co-op Magma 850 Down Hoodie 2.0
Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Water Resistant Packable Puffer Jacket
The Best Rain Jackets
Let my Ireland packing mistake remind you to always pack a raincoat! And yes, I feel like my mother saying this out loud.
Even if you don’t pack a raincoat, a jacket that is water-resistant will suffice. There’s nothing worse than ruining a perfectly good hair day with an unexpected downpour.
Needless to say, you can’t go wrong with any of these options.
Columbia Women’s Arcadia II Rain Jacket
RAINS Curve Waterproof Jacket
SaphiRose Women’s Long Hooded Rain Jacket
Athleta Drip Drop Jacket
L.L.Bean Women’s Rain Jackets and Shells
The Best Parka Travel Jackets
If you’re looking for the best winter jacket, a parka is your best bet. A parka is a well-insulated puffer jacket that falls below the waist — perfect for any cold weather trip. These are my current obsessions that will keep you warm and toasty.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Always wear your bulkiest coat on the plane to save space in your suitcase!
Orolay Women’s Thickened Down Jacket
RALPH LAUREN Women’s Hooded Parka Coat
The North Face Women’s Gotham Parka
REI Co-op Norseland Insulated Parka
Onion Quilt Maxi Water Resistant Down Parka & Belt Bag
Fuego 800 Fill Power Down Hooded Parka
Other Lightweight Travel Jacket Options
For more inspiration, I’ve rounded up a few more options that include packable rain jackets, full zip winter coats and classic hoodies.
They come in a variety of color options, in sizes ranging from slim fit to plus size.
L.L.Bean Women’s Waterproof Windbreaker Jacket
Patagonia Los Gatos Hooded Fleece Pullover
L.L.Bean Women’s Fleece Jackets
REI Co-op Beyonder Fleece Jacket
Athleta Tugga Coat
UNIQLO Ultra Light Down Jacket
Ultralight Quilted Packable Down Coat
Outdoor Research Aspire II GORE-TEX Jacket
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