I’m a Fashion Editor — These Are The Best Women’s Travel Pants.

Kara Blakeslee Avatar

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If you’re anything like me, comfort is a top priority when it comes to travel clothing. As someone whose wardrobe is 90 percent athleisure, I think it’s safe to say that I know where to find the best women’s travel pants.

From leggings to comfy joggers to versatile pants, I’ve tested and tried all the big brands so you don’t have to. As an athleisure expert, I‘m excited to share my list of the best travel pants to wear on a long-haul flight, long road trip or even a short trip when you just want to be comfortable!

Leggings

What’s not to like about leggings? For one, they’re made with stretchy fabrics that keep you supported and comfortable throughout the day. And brands like Lululemon and Athleta offer inclusive sizing, bold colors and versatile styles.

With endless Spandex options, it can be overwhelming to make a decision. Luckily, I’m confident that my foolproof lineup of leggings will soon become your go-to for the best women’s travel pants.

Lululemon Wunder Train Tight

These are arguably my favorite pair of leggings that I own. The nylon and Lycra blend make these leggings lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking. What I love about these leggings is that I can wear them during my workout classes or running errands. The Lycra provides shape and support without being overly tight. They also have a drawstring waist that keeps them in place and a small pocket for a credit card, or key.

Also, these leggings come in another style that includes side pockets. We love a side pocket for busy travel days!

Honorable mentions

These full-length, yoga pants are another favorite of mine. What I like about yoga pants is they’re timeless and flattering on just about everyone. These are a great option if you like the support and stretch of leggings, but want something full-length.

Also, you’ll be right on trend with these — yoga pants are having a moment!

Amazon Favorites

For every pair of Lululemon leggings, there is an Amazon pair that we love. The viral Colorfulkoala leggings made a splash on TikTok back in 2021 with users calling them the best alternative for the Lululemon Wunder Train Tight.

These have a very similar look and fit to the Wunder Tight and retail for a fraction of the price.

Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Tight

Last winter, my mission was to find a pair of black leggings that were perfect for travel. I walked into my local Athleta and walked out with not one, but two pairs of these ultra-high rise elation tights. Yes, they are that good.

With more than 3,000 reviews and a 5-star rating, these tights are made for your indoor/outdoor yoga activity. The Powertiva blend makes them stretchy, supportive and breathable.

What makes these leggings one of my choices for the best women’s travel pants is the three-layer waistband. It offers additional tummy support without feeling uncomfortable. These are my go-to leggings for longer travel days when I need extra support.

Honorable mentions:

Another trend I’m seeing on the rise is over-the-heel tights. These have the look and feel of ballerina tights, while being practical for everyday wear. Plus, this style is great for colder climates with the extra foot insulation.

Utility Pants

If you’re planning on being active during your trip, then you might want to add a pair of cargo pants to your packing list. Cargo pants are more durable than leggings and traditionally have multiple side pockets. And for the outdoor enthusiasts, they are also known for being great hiking pants!

No matter what your travel itinerary is, these options will have you looking on trend.

Anatomie Kate Navy Camo Print Cargo Pant

If you aren’t familiar with the brand Anatomie, let me introduce you. Since 2006, Anatomie has been creating luxury performance apparel for women. Backed by European craftsmanship, the company’s philosophy centers around creating luxury apparel that is both stylish and functional.

If you appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into clothing, then Anatomie is worth the splurge. The company’s apparel is the go-to for women who want a more elevated, high-end look while still being comfortable and having those all-important cargo pockets.

Among their highly-rated travel pants for women, the Kate Navy Camo Pant is my favorite. The slim fit, mid-rise silhouette provides both shape and structure. The ankle length is long enough to cuff for a sporty, cropped look. Bonus points for them being wrinkle-free.

Prana Halle Pant II

My next (more affordable) favorite utility travel pant is the Prana Halle Pant, which has been a crowd favorite for decades. The Prana Halle Pant II is made with ReZion, an earth-conscious performance fabric.

The pant itself is mid-rise, with a boot cut leg, and made with a nylon stretch blend. The inseam comes in short, regular, and tall — we love inclusivity! Plus the snap-closure front and back pockets are great for active travel days.

And for the outdoor enthusiasts, they are water-repellant and offer UPF 50+ sun protection.

Honorable mention

These Viodia Women’s Hiking Pants are affordable, water resistant and also offer UPF 50+ protection.

Joggers

It’s no surprise that my Lululemon joggers are at the top of my list of best travel pants for women and my favorite pair of travel pants. These are more than sweatpants. They are versatile, can be styled in different ways, and have that all-important elastic waist. Fit-wise, they are relaxed but you won’t look shapeless.

Stretch High-Rise Full Length Jogger

The Stretch High-Rise Jogger was the first pair of joggers I ever purchased. Spoiler: They weren’t the last. These are the best all-around joggers out there.

First, the overall fit is universally flattering. The Luxtreme fabric and Lycra blend make them stretchy, breathable and moisture-wicking. Also, they come in plus sizes and trendy colorways. Pair them with a comfy sneaker or easy slide sandal and you’re ready to seize the day.

Spanx Tapered Pant

The Spanx Tapered Pant is one of the company’s best-selling products; reviews call them “life changing.”

So what makes them so good? This straight-leg pant is made with spacer fabric that is both lightweight and ultra soft. The fine knit structure makes them soft, breathable and easy to move in. They have a flexible waistband with a drawstring so you can adjust for a more customized fit.

And I love how inclusive Spanx is with its sizing.

Honorable mentions

Relaxed, Casual Pants

Thanks to the ever-popular menswear trend, we have so many fantastic options for casual travel pants. The mid-rise, off-the-body silhouette is perfect for looking timeless and feeling comfortable. It’s not uncommon to see cargo pants or chinos being worn by trendy travelers.

My go-to brand for stylish, timeless trousers is Everlane. Not to mention, the company’s philosophy centers around ethical, sustainable practices.

As far as pants go, highly rated styles are the relaxed chino pant and the lightweight easy pant with an elastic waistband. Another style that is popular is The Way-High Drape Pant, a slightly dressier high-waist trouser with front pockets. This is a great option to include in your carry-on if you need to change for a business trip.

Definitely pay attention to the fabric blends when looking for relaxed, casual travel pants. Cotton blends will offer enough stretch to ensure you are comfy throughout your travels. Also, look for elastic, or stretchy waistbands for longer travel days. Nothing is worse than an uncomfortable waistband digging into you for hours!


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