travel material dresses

15 Comfortable Travel Dresses That Are Totally Packable

You’ll look stylish en route and upon arrival.

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Whatever you're thinking, warm-weather destinations call for a few staples: a swimsuit , a cover-up , flip-flops , and sunglasses top the list. Another nice-to-have? A travel dress that goes the distance. Travel dresses are versatile pieces of clothing that instantly complete your getaway capsule. They're comfortable, multifunctional, one-and-done travel pieces that will withstand long days of adventuring.

Our Top Picks :

Best Striped Travel Dress

Caslon stripe cotton gauze shirtdress in ivory cloud.

Best White Travel Dress

By anthropologie the kallie flowy maxi dress.

Best Budget Travel Dress

Amazon essentials midi a-line dress.

The most packable styles are those made of wrinkle-resistant fabrics, but you'll also want to keep an eye out for breathable materials that keep you cool when you’re on the go. Relaxed fits and modest silhouettes are easy to wear on the plane (anyone else like to curl up in their seat and binge on mini pretzels?), while versatile T-shirt styles and flowy maxis are road-trip-ready. And how can we forget pockets?! Never more convenient, they’re perfect to hold your ticket to the museum, stash your sunglasses, or even carry some hand sanitizer.

When you're exploring on your feet all day, pair your dress with super-comfy, minimalist sneakers before swapping them with walkable wedges for a night out—consider your packing woes solved. To bid you bon voyage, we found the most comfortable women's travel dresses that will get you jet-set prepped in no time.

It's called the vacation shirtdress for a reason. The easy, breezy style is easy to throw on, comfortable to wear for hours on end, and looks great in pictures, to boot. If stripes aren't your style, it also comes in pretty solids like navy, black, and white.

Colors: Blue stripe and pink stripe

Available Sizes: XXS to 2X

Ideal for both beach breaks and lounging at the hotel or home, this dreamy gauze pullover will definitely become a go-to. Petites and plus sizes, rejoice—it comes in an extended range of sizes (and colors!). Colors: White, black, sage, red, blue green, and mauve

Available Sizes: XXS to 3X

From sightseeing to happy hour, this sunny, travel-ready dress will keep you comfortable wherever you go. The breezy fit keeps things relaxed, while short sleeves and a below-the-knee hemline keep you covered.

Colors: Yellow floral, black, blue and white stripe, pink, navy, and green vine print

Available Sizes: XS to 2X

Columbia Freezer Tank Dress

Venturing to a hot and humid destination? You'll want this tank dress with cooling properties, anti-sweat technology, and UPF protection. Also available in plus-size and maxi-length options.

Colors: Black

Available Sizes: XS to 3X

Sopliagon Cotton and Linen Shirtdress

Nail casual cool in this comfy long-sleeved shirtdress, which also works equally well over a swimsuit. It's an Amazon gem that won't take too much room in your bag and won't break the bank.

Colors: Apricot, olive green, black, black plaid, light blue, gray, denim, purple, navy, pink, red, rose, white, white stripe, and royal blue

Available Sizes: S to 2X

Chico's Travelers Side Slit Maxi Dress

Opt for pretty in pink with Chico's travel-ready maxi dress. It's made from a wrinkle-resistant fabric that looks fresh in transit or just out of your suitcase. Not only is it universally flattering, but elbow-length sleeves and a longer hemline keep you extra comfy. If pink's not for you, there's a shorter-sleeve version in black and green.

Colors: Fresh plum pink

Talbot's Easy Travel Fit & Flare Dress

Made from a wrinkle-resistant fabric, this flattering fit-and-flare travel dress is ideal for planes, trains, automobiles, and everything in between. While the below-the-knee hemline offers just enough coverage, it's also a great layering piece. It also comes in petite and plus sizes.

Colors: Navy and black

Available Sizes: 2 to 24

Athleta Presidio Traveler Maxi Dress

Roll up this high-low hem maxi and toss it in your bag—it's lightweight, soft, and wrinkle-proof so you don't have to worry about malfunctions on the go. A relaxed silhouette makes this dress a no-brainer— and there are pockets.

Colors: Black, rose wood, olive, and navy

Ann Taylor Double Knit Midi Flare Dress

With short sleeves, a tailored waistline, and midi hemline, Ann Taylor's double knit flare dress is flattering on a range of body types. Available in an extended range of sizes from petite to tall, wear it on the plane with sleek sneakers and then out to dinner with comfortable heels or strappy sandals.

Available Sizes: 00 to 18

Madewell 100 Percent Cotton Melody Smocked Midi Dress

Whether you choose the petite or plus-size style, you can't go wrong with Madewell's flattering sundress. A smocked, fitted bodice is balanced thanks to a billowing midi skirt that you'll look forward to wearing from the airport to vacation dinners.

Colors: Black and pistachio

Available Sizes: XXS to 4X

J.Crew Elena Shirtdress in Striped Cotton Poplin

A breezy cotton shirtdress is a good idea when you want to feel comfortable and look polished. With a cinched waist and roomy cuffed sleeves, this beauty from J.Crew is as good as it gets.

Colors: Blue and white stripe, white, black, and green

Billabong Jet Set Dress

With traveling right in its name, this dress is made with a relaxed fit and pullover style, perfect for vacation and travel. A V-neckline and short bell sleeves enhance the flattering silhouette.

Colors: Moss meadow

Available Sizes: XS to M

Old Navy Fit & Flare Linen-Blend Midi Dress

Kick off your holiday with a Riviera-inspired striped linen sundress. A fitted bodice acts as an ideal foundation for an in-flight sweater or denim jacket, while the below-the-knee hemline offers just the right amount of coverage.

Colors: Blue and white stripe

Available Sizes: XS to 4X

O'Neill Reid Light Blue Multi-Stripe Button-Up Midi Dress

Stripes are a summer staple, and this lightweight button-up dress is sure to get tons of wear time. Short sleeves and a below-the-knee hemline balance the V-neckline.

Colors: Green and blue stripe

Available Sizes: S to XL

Quince 100 Percent Organic Cotton Tiered Maxi Dress

Crafted from 100 percent organic cotton poplin for maximum lightness, Quince's bright maxi is a holiday dream dress. A long hemline and short sleeves offer coverage while tiered layers and functional pockets add thoughtful details.

Colors: Vermillion red, light blue, navy, and black

Available Sizes: XS to XL

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

Paula Lee is a freelance Fashion Editor. Off duty, she can be found day-tripping around the tri-state area, hanging around farm animals, or browsing the library stacks.

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30 Ultra-Packable Travel Dresses for Summer

Carol McPherson

Carol is an editor with SmarterTravel Media, specializing in travel writing, multimedia production, and trying every local cuisine she can find. You can follow her journeys @cj_mcpherson on Instagram.

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Dresses: They’re easy to pack, they’re a fashion no-brainer, and they can go from casual to fancy even more easily than pants. That’s why they’re my absolute favorite type of clothing for travel. But you have to pack the right dresses for summer travel—versatile, wrinkle-free, and odor-resistant pieces that rock a travel wardrobe. Here are the best travel dresses for everyone.

Table of Contents

Travel sundresses, travel maxi dresses, short-sleeve travel dresses, modest travel dresses, plus-size travel dresses, rompers and jumpsuits for travel.

Stay cool with these sleeveless travel dresses for summer.

Toad&Co Manzana Tiered Sleeveless Dress

Be prepared for everything from an impromptu beach day to an outdoor dinner on a hot night with this sleeveless dress from Toad&Co . Loose-fitting but not shapeless, this dress is made from a mid-weight cotton with a slight natural crinkle, flawlessly camouflaging any and all suitcase wrinkles. 

prAna Ayla Dress

PrAna has a great reputation for sustainable threads that embody comfort and style in your day-to-day life. Right now we’re loving this sundress , which can be a staple on both a summer day at home or a sunny day abroad. With functional pockets and a fabric that can move with you, this comfortable dress is a must-buy.

Everlane The Gauze Smock Dress

Everlane’s gauze smock dress is the ultimate breezy vacation dress. The smocked top with slight stretch and extra thick straps make for ultimate comfort. Pair with some lightweight sandals for a day of sightseeing or dress it up with some heels and accessories for a mid-morning brunch look.

Elan Cover-Up Slipdress

Ideal for a day on the beach, this swingy dress pulls on and off with ease. The light material adds a breezy comfort to a steamy day and keeps you covered from the boardwalk to the oceanfront.

Zella Live in Rib Midi Dress

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, Zella’s Live in Rib Midi dress is built to be the easiest dress you’ll ever take on the road. With no buttons, zippers, or fasteners, this baby effortlessly slips on like your favorite comfy tee.

Quince Tencel Jersey Mini Swing Dress

Quince has a slew of awesome summer travel dresses made from their iconic sustainable fabrics. This sleeveless number is a casual, everyday dress that works well for layering, and it’s so comfortable that it would make for a great plane outfit even on a long flight.

The Somerset Dress

The Somerset is a playful floral mini-dress from Anthropologie. The fit-and-flare style and flowy sleeves give the effect of an elevated t-shirt dress and the two pockets are great for keeping your wallet and passport handy. 

Ruffle Trim Pajama Dress

With pajama in the title, you know this summer sundress will offer peak comfort. Anthroplogie’s Ruffle Trim pajama dress is a midi-length button-down style with ruffle details along the straps and down the front of the bodice. Easily pair it with some classic white sneakers for a daytime look, or dress it up with a comfortable travel heel in the evenings. 

Maxi dresses’ longer length protects you from the sun and offers an elegant look, without making you overheat.

REVOLVE Rain Maxi Dress

You won’t believe how unbelievably breezy and cool the Rain Maxi Dress is until you try it on. Made with a trendy thigh-high front slit and an easy pullover design, you can throw this on and be at the beach in seconds.

Loveappella Maxi Dress

This maxi dress is so perfect for travel that you’ll want to buy one in each of the four colors that it comes in. The jersey fabric is cool, lightweight, easy to pack—and extremely comfortable.

Land’s End Sleeveless Tie Waist Maxi

This tie-waist maxi dress from Lands’ End is the ultimate mix of classy and beachy. Made from a mix of cotton and modal jersey, the fabric drapes nicely and moves with you. The pullover style keeps it casual enough for daily wear, but is also an ideal beach wedding guest outfit. 

Aday All Summer Maxi Dress

The All Summer Maxi from Aday is equipped with two spacious inseam pockets to store all your essentials on-the-go. The dress has a relaxed shape that is both comfortable and chic and—a bonus for all eco-friendly travelers—is made from 100% biodegradable fabric. 

The Best Travel Shoe for Every Type of Trip, Tested and Reviewed

These short-sleeve travel dresses for summer can go from casual to elegant with the right shoes and accessories.

Pact The Softspun Tee Dress

This organic cotton dress from Pact is your favorite travel t-shirt done better. It’s made in Fair Trade Factory and, at less than $30, is one of the more affordable sustainable options around.

Carve Designs Nellie Linen Dress

Carve Designs Nellie Linen Dress is the perfect multifunctional outfit to pack for vacation. Paired with your favorite sandals , this dress is ideal for a casual day exploring your destination. Pair it with something a little more upscale and you’re ready to head out for the night. 

JollieLovin Women’s T-Shirt Dress

JollieLovin Women’s t-shirt dress has an easy-to-wear, casual silhouette that works with sneakers or sandals. Wear it as is or cinch it with a fashionable tie or belt to dress it up.

eShakti Cotton Knit Midi Wrap Dress

Don’t you hate it when you find a dress off the rack that’s great—except it fits weird? That will never be the case at online retailer eShakti , where you can customize clothing to your specifications. Best of all, it’s shockingly cheap—check out the Cotton Knit Midi Wrap Dress , which is perfect for travel thanks to its cotton/spandex jersey knit fabric.

These modest travel dresses for summer are ideal for visiting destinations where you want to be covered up, but still cool.

Boohoo Floral Wrap Belted Maxi Dress

This maxi dress from Boho has long sleeves and a very subtle asymmetrical hemline. It can be layered with a camisole or mock cami panel to raise the neckline.

Lulus Ready to Bloom Tiered Maxi Dress

The delicate floral pattern on this maxi dress from Lulus is perfect for summer. The smocked bodice gives it a comfortable breathability. Pair it with a sweeping lightweight cardigan to maintain the flowy silhouette while adding extra coverage.

Pomander Place Blue Stripe Griffin Dress

This shirt dress from Pomander Place is ideal for savvy packers who want to get multiple outfits out of each piece in their travel wardrobe. Save luggage space by wearing this dress three ways: as a maxi dress, with jeans or trousers as a statement shirt, or completely unbuttoned as a twist on the classic duster cardigan . 

Grecerelle Long Sleeve Maxi Dress

This maxi dress has long sleeves, a modest neckline, and pockets—what more do you need? It’s also extremely affordable, so go ahead and get one in every color and print available.

These travel dresses are specifically designed for plus sizes.

ASOS Tie-Back Linen Sundress

This square neck mini-dress from ASOS will have you picnic-ready in no time. It has a streamlined silhouette from the front, with a large bow tie-back closure at the back adding a bit of flare.

Striped Patchwork Tassels Ties Shirred Dress

The light, breezy fabric and fluttery sleeves and hemline of this dress make it an instant summer staple. It comes in a cerulean, light blue, black, moss, or red stripe pattern, and, because you can dress it up and down, this one can be worn at any time of the day.

HBEYYTO Women’s Plus Size Maxi Dress

For those days when all you want is to throw on a cozy t-shirt but still want to feel put together, this is the dress to grab. It’s made from 95% rayon, comes in 18 colors and patterns, and —for the best part—it has pockets.

Mini Challis Tiered Tank Dress

It doesn’t get more casually stylish than this minidress and a well-worn pair of Converse . Join the two with a denim jacket and you’ll be ready to face the day in no time.

Floerns Women’s Boho Floral Print Off Shoulder Dress

This flowy off-the-shoulder dress shows off your shoulders and legs but still leaves a little mystery. It comes in 40 different colors and patterns and is made from a stretchy rayon, so you can stay comfortable while sightseeing and still show off your fashion sense.

Amazon Essentials Cap Sleeve Wrap Dress

Whether you’re heading out on a business trip or a beach vacation, you’ll want to pack this dress by Amazon Essentials . This classic style pairs cap sleeves with a tulip hem and wrap style for a polished look.

It seems rompers and jumpsuits are becoming more and more popular with each season, and for good reason. These super comfortable and stylish ones are perfect to throw in your suitcase. 

Old Navy Crinkle Cause Romper

A t-shirt and shorts in one, this crinkle gauze romper from Old Navy is a classic for good reason. Available in sizes extra small to 4X and in regular, tall, and petite size ranges. 

Free People Movement Hot Shot Onesie

The Free People Movement Hotshot Onesie is effortlessly cozy and cool. Purposefully oversized and designed for maximum freedom of movement, this romper is ideal to wear on long plane rides layered over a t-shirt or under a mid-crop hoodie .   

City Chic First Date Playsuit

The First Date Playsuit from City Chic is the definition of a day-to-night look. The ruffled hem at the leg gives the illusion of a mini-dress while keeping the comfort and freedom of built-in shorts. Throw this in your suitcase and be prepped for city sightseeing to roll right into an evening on the town.

UNIQLO Linen Blend Jumpsuit

UNIQLO’s Linen Blend Jumpsuit is an elevated option for fans of the classic overalls. It can be worn tied at the waist or on its own for a boxy silhouette.

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

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

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Traveling Tulls

Eco-Travel in Retirement – Nature and Sustainable Luxury Travel

The best lightweight, easy-care women’s travel dresses (2024)

As a woman over 60, I prioritize classic, easy-care pieces in my travel wardrobe. Inspired by French style, I gravitate towards solid colors and timeless silhouettes in high-quality fabrics. Colorful scarves, toppers, and jewelry add pops of personality to this foundation. A versatile dress fits perfectly into this capsule – designing your travel style around a simple dress is a fantastic way to pack light and look effortlessly chic! Having tested some of the best travel dresses myself, I’m excited to share my favorites with you.

Table of Contents

Why pack a dress for travel?

I’m not your typical dress person. At home you’re more likely to find me in a great pair of jeans or workout wear. But travel demands versatility! From museum visits and evenings out to long days of walking, I need to be prepared for anything. A travel dress becomes my secret weapon. Cruises practically require a dress (We don’t book anything that requires formal wear. It’s just not our thing). After a day of hiking or cycling on an active adventure, there’s nothing like slipping into something soft and pretty for the evening. In a pinch, a comfy travel dress can even double as nightwear! That’s the beauty of a well-chosen travel dress – it goes from day to night and everywhere in between . That’s why finding the right dresses for travel is important!

This post includes affiliate links. Traveling Tulls may earn a small commission, at no additional expense to you, if you purchase something from one of these links. Unless noted, we were not supplied with the dresses we reviewed here but were so impressed with the Wool& dress and bike shorts, that we have chosen to partner with Wool& going forward. DISCLOSURE

As a woman over 60, I began traveling IN the sixties. My Dad wore three-piece suits, and my mom and I wore dresses. Does that make me a travel dress expert?? No, but it does give me an appreciation for the functionality of dresses.

What makes a great travel dress?

Any piece that makes its way into my bag has to earn its place. Dresses are no exception. Here is my criteria for the perfect travel dress:

1. Packability – lightweight, wrinkle resistant

2. Versatility – I don’t pack anything that I can’t wear more than once. Clothing that has more than one mix and match option is the best way to pack light. Choose a casual dress that can go from daytime touring to evenings out with an accessory or two. A dress that can be converted for different looks gets extra points! (Note that you don’t need to buy a dress that’s advertised as ‘convertible’. You can work with a simple dress to make several looks as shown below!)

3. Low Maintenance/Ease of Care – who has time for doing laundry on vacation? A sink wash and air dry are usually the most we do on vacation.

4. Sustainable Quality – don’t be fooled by fast fashion. Invest in well made, classic items from ethical companies. Not only is this best for the planet, but it’ll save you money in the long run.

5. Comfort and Pleasure – (THE most important yet often forgotten criteria) Do I like how I feel in this dress? Does it work for my body type? Does it fit my personal style? Do I enjoy wearing it?

Choose your color, a dress style you like, and fabric that travels well

Color . I recommend choosing a dress in a solid color. The foundation of the French woman’s style is the little black dress. This staple piece is simple yet classy and never goes out of fashion. When creating a French-inspired travel wardrobe , I start with a solid color dress – the base palette – and add color and patterns with other pieces and accessories. Parisian women may favor black as their base, but you should choose what’s best for you, and your skin tone. Navy blue, wine, or dark gray can be more flattering to women over 60. They certainly are for me.

Style . Your choice will depend on your signature style and your destination. Sleeveless styles are great for hot climates and will work just as well in cold weather when you add layers! But some ladies prefer long sleeves. And some love maxi dresses! (though maxis will take up more luggage space). Go with what makes you comfortable and what flatters your best features.

Fabric . To earn its place in your bag, the dress (and every item really!) has to be lightweight and easy to care for. This is where the fabric choice comes in. For example:

• Cotton is heavy, retains odors, and takes forever to dry.
• Linen is wonderful, but wrinkles can be frustrating.
• Synthetics are very lightweight but can retain odors.

For ease of care and sustainability we recommend choosing natural fibers such as bamboo, Tencel, and merino wool for your travel clothing.

Bamboo is quickly becoming a popular material for travel clothing. It’s sustainable and odor resistant. (I have a bamboo top that I love though it has lost a bit of structure after a few years of wear. I’m not sure if this is normal for bamboo or just my experience with the brand.)

Merino wool has a natural warmth and resiliency not found in other textiles. Merino sheep, bred originally in Spain, have ultrafine wool which doesn’t provoke the itchy reaction some people experience with wool. AND it’s naturally odor resistant. That means you can wear a merino wool item repeatedly, with only an overnight airing out!

I’ve been a convert to merino wool since I invested in merino sports socks for our cycling vacation. Seven days on the bike and only one wash needed! They were truly odor resistant, but also soft and comfortable even after hours of wear. We began purchasing quality merino wool tees in preparation for our Grand Canyon rafting trip and added a sweater for our second safari. With the switch to merino, we saved over a pound in luggage weight from our first safari. This is a big deal when you’re limited to 35 pounds including photo equipment!

Best Women’s Travel Dresses: tested and recommended

• Best Dress for Everyday Travel & Versatility – wool& Merino Wool
• Best Dresses for a Special Event While Traveling – Chico’s Travelers Collection
• Best Convertible Dress (& Top) – Diane Kroe Origami
• Best Dress for Sun Protection – Coolibar Travel Shirt Dress
• Best of the Rest

Our Top Pick for General Travel & Versatility:

Wool& Merino Wool Dresses

Rowena swing dress, price: $138 USD

• Packability: 11 oz., wrinkle resistant.
• Versatility: simple swing dress, but can be styled as a top or tunic
• Ease of Care: fabric is 78% ultrasoft merino wool and 22% nylon
• Quality: very well made. Wool& is transparent about their sourcing and production processes. They are actively working with their wool source to improve sustainability.
• Comfort and Pleasure: temperature regulating, very comfortable, and has pockets!

I discovered wool&, a small Oregon company producing merino wool clothing, through a Facebook ad. To prove the durability and natural odor resistance of merino wool, the company challenged people to wear their dress for 100 days straight. (I can’t imagine they expected this challenge to be so popular or to inspire an online community of women sharing the ups and downs of daily life over 100 days! No doubt the kindest group on social media!) Needless to say, given my interest in merino wool clothing, I was intrigued.

I base my capsule wardrobe on my favorite color, navy blue, so I opted for the wool& signature item, the Rowena swing dress in marine blue. It’s a wonderful rich blue and I’m thrilled with the color. The dress has a boat neckline which is very flattering (and protective in the sunshine). As this is a swing dress, the body of the dress is loose, flowy, and flattering to my body shape. The material is light and lends itself to dozens of styling tricks and outfit ideas shared by the Facebook community. (There are many different colors available for this and other wool& dresses)

My wool& Review: Is this the best dress for traveling?

For the first month of the challenge, I played with the dress. I shopped my closet, pulling out long neglected items to pair with the dress. It was fun being creative with a simple piece of clothing, and truly surprising to pull out the dress each morning to find it as fresh as the day it arrived !

Then I got serious and began testing the dress for travel. I limited myself to a small capsule and worked on different outfits for different travel scenarios. First, I wore the dress to my grandchild’s christening, and then another granddaughter’s lacrosse game. I wore it during zoom meetings, neighborhood clean-ups, and even for bike rides. The wool& Rowena came through every time.

I had two opportunities to travel during this time – once to NYC for a fun weekend, and once to Texas for a sad event. The dress became my nightgown in Texas and gave me comfort.

Ease of Care: I aired out the dress every night – flipped it inside out and hung it over a bar. I sink-washed the dress six times and washed it in the washer once just to test durability. (I did use a lingerie bag) Day 100 the dress looked as fresh as on day 1.

Wool& offers many other travel dresses with pockets, including french terry dresses like the Sierra, a sleeveless option that’s very popular with travelers, the Everett, a tunic length sweater dress, and the Willow, a 3/4 sleeve swing dress with a V-neck. Since my experience with the 100 day dress challenge I’ve replaced many of my old clothing items with new pieces from wool&.

Merino wool dresses are also offered by Icebreaker, Smartwool, Woolx and Ridge Merino. All of these brands produce quality pieces, so I’d feel confident ordering a dress from any of these brands if you find a style that suits you!

Amazon carries merino wool clothing at a more affordable price. I haven’t tried any of these so can’t speak to the quality. Let me know if you recommend them!

Best for a Special Event While Traveling

Chico’s Travelers Collection – dresses

• Price: ~$100-109 USD
• Packability: wrinkle resistant
• Versatility: n/a
• Ease of Care: machine or sink wash
• Fabric: 96% acetate, 4% elastane. From website: Our Travelers Classic collection contains Eastman Naia™, a sustainable cellulose fiber derived from wood pulp.
• Comfort and Pleasure: stylish, and flattering. Fabric has a bit of stretch for extra comfort

These packable travel dresses would be perfect for date nights, a destination wedding or afternoon tea party . Chico’s designs these dresses for all but I think the dresses, with their simple lines and great style, appeal especially to mature women. I like the mid-length pencil skirt look, but Chico’s also has cocktail dresses.

I don’t own any of these gorgeous dresses above because I have another Chico’s dress, bought 10 years ago, that still looks great! It’s a blue and white floral print and always in my luggage if I want a special event (or a bit fancier) dress in my bag!

Our Favorite Convertible Travel Dresses

Many dress can be ‘converted’ to create different looks. But there are some pieces designed specifically for multiple styling. These can be a fun option to pack IF you know you’ll want to wear the item at least two ways!!

Origami by Diane Kroe

• Price: $150 CAD
• Packability: wrinkle resistant, but at 14.3 oz, not particularly lightweight
• Versatility: converts to multiple new looks – dress, halter top, batwing top, skirt
• Ease of Care: Dress is made from 92% poly and 8% spandex, so not a natural fabric, but it dries quickly and resists wrinkles.
• Quality: ethically made in Canada
• Comfort and Pleasure: stylish and extremely comfortable!

I’ve been a customer of Diane Kroe Designs for many years. I love the versatility of the collection. The Origami is one of my favorites. Usually, I wear it as a top with skinny jeans or white pants, but I love having the option to wear it as a dress when traveling. This piece is great for older women travelers. The shape and drape are stylish and forgiving.

The main thing about convertible clothing is the style options while traveling. I’ve packed this dress specifically for special events but reached for it later in the trip as a light layer.

Best Dress for Sun Protection

Coolibar (Malta) Travel Shirt Dress –

Note: After first posting about this travel dress, the company kindly sent me one for review.

Price: $115 USD

• Versatility: wear it as a shirt dress, an opened jacket, or tie the ends to make a cute button-down shirt.
• Ease of Care: fabric is quick dry. Machine or hand wash in cold water,
• Fabric: from the website: Antimicrobial fabric that is lightweight, breathable and soft to the touch. With 4-way stretch it is naturally wrinkle resistant and moisture wicking.
• Comfort and Pleasure: a travel (and home!) classic style

What makes this a great choice? The Coolibar brand produces stylish clothing with sun protection – great for us older women! This shirt is rated UPF 50 and is breathable making it a great option for days of intense sun. The collar and cuffs can be adjusted to give maximum sun coverage.

Another great feature of the Malta is the hidden, zipped side pockets!

I was gifted the black version of this shirt dress. It is remarkably lightweight and cool. I wore it to a recent event – belted over leggings – and received lots of compliments!

Visit the Coolibar website for other dress styles for travel and sun protection .

Best of the rest: more suggestions for travel dresses

Athleta is one of my favorite brands for comfortable travel-friendly pants. I haven’t had the chance to try any of their dresses, but they offer several cute – short and sporty – dresses. You’ll find similar dresses at TitleNine.

For hard-working dresses suitable to many overseas trips check out Travelsmith, Magellan Travel Catalog, Lands End, L.L. Bean, and Orvis. These classic travel clothing companies will often have something that fits our easy-care, lightweight, wrinkle-free standards.

NOTE: An option often offered by travel clothing brands is the reversible dress – pattern on one side and solid on the other. This might work for you, but I ended up donating the one I tried as it was too heavy. Some reversible dresses, like mine, are actually a two-layer dress (a black sheath inside a patterned sheath). Thus, the dress is heavier than a single layer dress. And if the dress holds odors, it won’t matter that you can reverse it.

A variant of the reversible dress that I do like is a dress with two necklines. Basically, you can wear the dress back or front depending on the neckline you want. I love my wool& Summer midi dress which has a high neckline and a v-neck neckline. This actually does give versatility to my travel wardrobe!

Have I convinced you to pack a dress for your travel?

Some last thoughts. The right dress can be endlessly useful during your travels. Wear it to a nice dinner? of course! But you can also wear it when you’re on a bus tour, for a hike in the mountains, and even sometimes as a workout tunic over exercise tights. (Believe me. I’ve done it several times!)

Look in your closet first to see if there’s a dress that’ll be versatile, stylish, and easy to care for on your trip. If you need to buy a new dress, find one that you can see wearing several times on your travels. Take some time before you leave to try the dress on and play with accessories. That’s the best time to see if the dress deserves a place in your travel capsule wardrobe .

What do you think? Will a dress fit into your travel wardrobe?

Tip: for maximum comfort (and modesty) consider wearing leggings or bike shorts under your dress. I love my merino wool shorts by Wool& , Frankie Bike Shorts and Summit Shorts- both keep me fresh and comfortable and have pockets!

Amy Tull and Team

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Amy, a writer on responsible bucket list travel, is your reliable source for insightful travel advice. With a career background in libraries, and a degree in biology and mathematics, Amy's approach to travel is rooted in meticulous research and planning, and her commitment to eco-conscious adventures.

Amy’s dedication to sustainable travel practices, including efficient packing techniques, ensures that every adventure leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the traveler's well-being. Trust Amy to guide you towards meaningful and eco-friendly travel, making the most of your retirement years.

A lifelong New England resident, Amy is also the source for insider tips on travel in the Northeastern U.S.

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10 thoughts on “ The best lightweight, easy-care women’s travel dresses (2024) ”

I’m about to embark on the Wool& 100 day challenge, and this post has me excited about all the possibilities! I’ve been interested in capsule wardrobes for a while. This might be my moment!

Oh my goodness! All the yesses!!!! I’ve done the challenge (in a Ro!) as well and am a full on convert to not only a merino wool fan but it has affirmed my love, desire, and need for a capsule wardrobe for every day and more.

I am finally getting to travel again soon and my Wool& dresses are all I’m planning on taking for core outfit pieces!

So, I have to ask, is the merino wool cool to wear? I am at the age where I am wearing t-shirts when everyone else is bundled up!

Yes! At least that’s my experience. The dress I purchased was long sleeved, and would not be ideal for a woman who’s usually hot. I have since purchased a sleeveless and short sleeved dress. Both wonderful on hot days.

Well I’ll definitely be reconsidering packing dresses in the future. Thanks!

🙂 Looking forward to seeing pictures of you in those dresses!

I’ve just purchased a SmartWool sleeveless dress for a trip to Italy, but don’t know about shoes. Was planning to take only athletic shoes for comfort but they don’t look good with the dress. Suggestions?

Loved your article and Wool&. What tool did you use to gather up the Rowena (one had the Rowena as a top, it looks as if it is plastic and round). Thanks for this article. I was looking for ways to elevate the styling of the dress.

Hi Joy, I use a scarf ring/loop I purchased from Amazon. I’m sure you can find one at a fabric store too!

Another trick you can use with either the scarf loop, or a smaller circular thing like a coin, is to place the loop either under or over the dress and gather the fabric around it with an elastic. It makes either a cute pucker or a button.

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15 Best Travel Dresses in 2024 – Cute, Comfortable, and Wrinkle Free

• Travel Gear

Looking for the best travel dresses? Here are the ones I’ve tried and love.

When I travel, I prefer wearing dresses. It simplifies your packing process and makes coordinating outfits on trips a breeze. The maximizer in me will be stressing about it all day, even with a packing list in hand, so it helps!

For this post, I tested many highly rated travel dresses mentioned on travel sites and got recommendations from our globetrotting friends on the road. Plus, I’m sharing a few of my own personal travel staples I’ve discovered along the way.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: March 4, 2023

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• The Best Travel Dress

What Makes a Great Travel Dress?

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• More Travel Dresses

Essential Travel Tips for Packing Dresses

Many fitness and outdoor brands are also starting to make lifestyle lines so you can have stylish clothes that also perform well. Sometimes, you must dig through all the items that scream outdoorsy to find the gems. 

We reached out to the major travel and outdoor brands on the market (including Adventure Dress, Anatomie, Fig Clothing, Helene Clarkson, prAna, Rec Room, Toad&Co) to identify their top sellers and then cross-referenced it with numerous travel sites, blogs, and globetrotting friends. 

None required inclusion, and we returned any dresses that did not fit or travel well.

Many of these brands are pricier because they use performance fabrics and care more about fair trade and sustainability. But if you’re looking for mid to lower-price range dresses, we included those too.

Before we get into my top choices for dresses, here are some things I’m looking for when searching for the best travel dresses.

• Comfort  – Though I might carry one fancier dress for a special occasion, most of the clothes I travel with are comfy chic.
• Versatility  – can be dressed up or down. It’s even better if it’s convertible clothing or a 2-piece dress that makes it easy to mix and match. Usually, convertible clothing can be pretty ugly, but occasionally, you find a gem.
• Wrinkle Free  – I don’t want to spend part of my trip ironing clothes.
• Packable  – Light and easy to pack.
• Performance  – Sweat-wicking or quick drying is icing on the cake. If the dress looks too sporty, though, it’s not a must.
• Rompers and Jumpsuits? – If you’re outdoors all day with no bathroom, you will not want to strip naked. Trust me, this has happened to me, and it was uncomfortable.

Note: You know your body best and what style looks best on you. I’m generally a size 0 petite. If there’s no petite size, I accept that minis will look like midis, and midis will look like maxis on me.

The Best Travel Dresses in 2024

1. petal tunic dress (on sale $19 from $27) – most affordable →.

Activities:  Urban exploration. Sizing:  XS in Yellow (runs large on me)

It has low-quality fabric , but I’ve worn it for several years, and it holds up better than other fast fashion pieces I’ve owned. It’s mostly for city travel, but I’ve also worn this as a swimsuit cover-up and went SUPing.

The best part is that it’s affordable , and you can go on any adventure without feeling bad that you’ll mess it up .

• Versatile and can be dressed up or down.
• Can machine wash cold and tumble dry low.
• Affordable.
• Will wrinkle
• Fabric is not comfortable. It has some stretch but isn’t very soft.
• Low-quality fabric with a “plasticky” feel, but it’s sewn together well.

More Reviews and Compare Prices on Amazon .

2. Free Fly Apparel Heritage Dress ($88) – Most Comfortable Travel Dress →

Activities:  Urban exploration. Materials: 55% Cotton | 45% Viscose from Bamboo Sizing:  XS in Heather Black (true to size but long on me)

This is by far the most comfortable dress I own. Comfortable clothes tend to look slouchier, but this one, surprisingly, is more flattering than I expected. It’s easy to throw on during hot summer days, and luckily, their midi dress hits right at maxi length for me.

I also like layering over this with a sweater during the winter. Also, I must have a favorite pose right now. lol

• Comfortable and stretchy
• Soft Fabric
• UPF 50+ sun protection
• Flattering fit; not too loose or tight
• Side slits for easy movement
• Hang dry recommended
• Not as many color options

See More Reviews Free Fly Apparel .

3. Encircled 3-piece Reversible Dressy Knit Dress + Jumpsuit (on Sale $188 from $389) →

Activities:  Urban exploration. Materials: Rayon from Bamboo, Spandex Rib Knit Sizing:  XS in Martini Olive (true to size)

I love this 3-piece set , which can be worn four ways. The top is reversible , with a boat neck on one side and a scoop neck on the other. Then you can pair it with their skirt or their wide-leg pants . My biggest complaint is that the skirt has no pockets.

• Versatile and can be dressed up or down across multiple seasons.
• Reversible top .
• Breathable fabric.
• Sustainably sourced. Certified B-Corp.
• Sustainable packaging.
• Full bra coverage straps.
• Can machine wash.
• Pockets on the wide-leg pants .
• Women-owned, women-run.
• Pricier, but I don’t mind paying more for sustainable, ethically-made clothes.
• In some light, you can see unflattering lines created by the tank.
• Must lay flat to dry (They suggest you always line dry. Did you know air drying can reduce your carbon footprint by up to 2400 lbs a year?).
• No pockets on the skirt .
• Will wrinkle.

More Reviews and Compare Prices on Encircled .

4. Prana Luxara Dress (On sale $59 from $119) – Best Activewear Dress for Travel →

Activities:  Urban Exploration, Outdoor Adventures in Heat, Hot Yoga Material:  76% Recycled Nylon, 24 Elastane Size Worn:  XS in Spiced (true to size on me)

This is an excellent activewear dress, especially for warm-weather destinations like Las Vegas! The Luxara is Prana’s lightest material and is perfect for hiking in the heat. It fits like a hug and is more comfortable than my Girlfriend Collective Lola Dress, my other active dress with a built-in shorty.

• Ultra-lightweight
• Moisture wicking and Quick Dry
• UPF Sun Protection
• Stretchy and comfortable
• Built-in shorts
• Interior pocket in shorts
• Some recycled materials
• Only one pocket
• Some reviews mention it’s too short, but it’s a great length for me.

More Reviews and Compare Prices on Prana .

5. Prana Cozy Up Bayjour Dress (Out of Stock) →

Activities:  Urban Exploration, Beach, Soft Adventures Material:  55% Hemp | 25% Recycled Polyester | TENCEL™ Lyocell Size Worn:  XS in Heather Grey (true to size)

I loved all my previous Prana dresses (now discontinued), so I knew I would love the Cozy Up Bayjour Dress. It is soft and comfortable , can be dressed up or down , and  pockets  are always a plus. I’ll later post up all the mixing and matching I can do with my wardrobe and this dress.

• Soft fabric
• Lightweight than most dresses, but on this list, it’s one of the heavier fabrics.
• Flattering shape with rib knit tank bodice
• Bacteria resistant
• Quick drying
• Versatile and can be dressed up or down
• On-seam pockets
• Some recycled fibers and eco-friendly materials
• Other reviewers mention the fabric is heavier than expected, and the black color looks faded.
• The waistline could be higher to be more flattering on petite frames. It’s better for average or taller heights.

More Reviews and Compare Prices on Prana or Amazon .

6. Toad and co Jumper ($125) →

Activities:  Urban Exploration Material:  100% Organic Cotton Size Worn:  XS in Honey Brown (fits large on me)

I love this jumper for travel days when I have multiple activities requiring multiple outfits. Instead of bringing two outfits per day, I can throw this over the same top, which makes for an easy day-to-night transition. I did this twice on our Washington trip , where I had to hike during the day but had more formal dinners later.

• Easy to throw on.
• Soft and comfortable
• Lots of pockets (one zippered pocket for valuables)
• Can machine wash
• Oeko-tex standard
• Shipped in a recyclable paper sleeve.
• Joy-backed guarantee. You can return it within 90 days if you don’t get a compliment within three wearings or it doesn’t bring you joy.
• Runs large if you’re petite, but I don’t mind wearing it looser.

7. Arc’teryx Contenta Dress (Out of Stock) →

Activities:  Urban Exploration, Outdoor Adventures Material:  100% recycled Diem™ polyester Size Worn:  XS in Light Immersion (true to size on me)

They made a newer version of this dress with a looser silhouette and a scooped neckline. Meanwhile, I still have the older version. 

This dress is the  most lightweight option  on here and feels the most breezy out of all the dresses. I especially gravitate towards it on hot summer days (we have plenty of them in Vegas).

• Lightweight
• Anti-wrinkle
• Can wear it two ways.
• Materials meet the Bluesign criteria for sustainability.
• The elastic waistband inside is annoying to cinch the waist (the newer version has it on the outside).

8. Anatomie Taya Racerback Maxi Dress (On Sale $78 From $168) →

Activities:  Urban exploration, Beach, Nicer Dinners, Work trips Material:  95% Viscose / 5% Elastane Size Worn:  XS in Navy (true to size on me other than length)

Let me start by saying I’m a big fan of Anatomie’s line of travel clothes. Everything is  high quality . I own two pairs of Skylar Pants in black and gray because they’re perfect for flying, and now this dress!

The performance fabric keeps you comfortable, and the mesh panel makes it perfect for warm-weather travel.

• Stretchy, Relaxed fit
• Flattering shape
• I had to hem it since there are no petite sizes

More Reviews and Compare Prices on Anatomie .

9. Helene Clarkson Sabi Reversible Halter Dress (on sale $94 from $189) →

Activities:  Urban exploration, Work travel Material:  95% polyester, 5% spandex Size Worn:   XS in teal  (true to size on me)

The material is so soft and comfortable that I can practically  sleep in it ! What initially drew me to this dress was that it’s  reversible , and you can wear it as a mock-neck halter style or a v-neck. Also, since the fabric is so thin, you can wear it as a top with baggier bottoms like joggers.

• Wrinkle Free
• Reversible – front is a pleated mock neck, and the back is a relaxed v-neck. I typically only wear it on the mock neck side, though.
• Hang to dry
• It’s easy to snag, so be careful around sharp objects or velcro.

More Reviews and Compare Prices on Helene Clarkson .

10. Bluffworks Threshold Tie Waist T-Shirt Dress (On sale $46 from $78) →

Activities:  Urban exploration Material:  66% Polyester, 29% Lyocell, 5% elastane Size Worn:  XS Petite in Deep Maroon (runs large on me)

Jacob has been wearing Bluffworks clothes for years, and now that they have started carrying women’s clothes, I finally got to check out one of their dresses. Their threshold tie waist t-shirt dress uses a super soft fabric that feels like your old favorite tee. The fit runs a half-size large on me in XS, their smallest size, but most of their reviews say it fits true to size.

• Comfy, soft fabric.
• Machine washable
• Odor resistant
• Wrinkle resistant
• Moisture wicking/quick drying
• 4 total pockets (2 on interior)
• It fits loose on me and isn’t flattering on the side you don’t tie. It probably looks better on you if it fits more snugly.

More Reviews and Compare Prices on Bluffworks .

11. Girlfriend Collective – Lola V-neck Dress (on sale $88) →

Activities:  Hiking, Climbing, Urban exploration. Material:  90% RPET and 10% spandex Size Worn:  XS in alpine (true to size on me)

The Lola V-Neck is perfect for any activity. With its  built-in shorts , you can hike or climb without worrying about flashing people. They make them out of  90% recycled plastic bottles  (RPET). 

Plus, they have their  ReGirlfriend recycling program , where they turn your dress into future clothes.

It was also perfect for travel with a  diverse range of activities . We zip-lined in the morning before exploring the city, and the built-in shorts made that all possible.

Girlfriend Collective sent me two dresses to showcase on  my climbing account , but I loved them so much that I included them here.

• Comfortable fabric.
• Flattering shape with compression around the waist and hips.
• Built-in bra.
• Built-in shorts.
• Pockets on inner shorts.
• Sweat-wicking.
• Ultra-lightweight.
• Sustainably made from 90% recycled plastic bottles, and they have a recycle program called ReGirlfriend.
• Must be hang-dried.
• Doesn’t hide stiff nips, and if you’re already flat, it flattens you more.
• Harder to take on and off to go to the bathroom.
• Looks more sporty.

More Reviews and Compare Prices on Girlfriend Collective .

12. Toad and Co Marley Tiered Sleeveless Dress (On Sale $58 from $90) →

Activities:  Urban Exploration, Beach, Soft Adventures Material:  48% TENCEL™ Lyocell | 48% Organic Cotton | 4% Elastane Size Worn:  XS in Salt (runs large on me)

The Marley Tiered dress is  comfortable,  versatile, and perfect for hot summers. It’s easy to throw on whether lounging at home or exploring the city.

Toad and Co values  sustainability , and I thought it was cute that even their tags are made to be reusable as a coaster.

• Loose, flowy silhouette
• Bra-friendly coverage
• Made with eco-friendly fibers and packaging
• Joy-backed guarantee
• The bust runs large for me since I’m petite and flat-chested.

More Reviews and Compare Prices on Toad & Co .

13. Fig CLothing Hampton Dress (On sale $72 from $89) →

Activities:  Urban exploration, soft adventure Material:  100% Cotton (Honeycomb terry) Size Worn:  XS in Terracotta Stripe (true to size on me)

Fig makes practical travel clothes that make no sacrifice on style, and the Hampton dress has been the perfect addition to my capsule wardrobe. I love the simple design and the in-seam pockets.

• Soft on skin
• Comfortable
• UPF 25 solar protection
• In-seam pockets
• Quality fabric
• Heavier than my other travel dresses because of its thicker fabric

More Reviews and Compare Prices on Fig Clothing .

14. Milumia Button Up Split Floral Print Flowy Party Maxi Dress ($44) →

Activities:  Urban exploration, beach

I wear an XS in Beige Yellow, but the dress runs big and fits loose on me (I’m a petite XS, sometimes XXS). 

The fit isn’t perfect on me, but it still looks great for photos (see photo below). I have other travel bloggers friends with this same dress who own it in multiple colors. If it fits you, it’s a fan favorite.

• Comfortable, soft fabric
• Machine Washable
• Must be line-dried
• Fits baggy on me.

15. Encircled Chrysalis Cardi Dress ($215) →

Activities:  Urban exploration, in flight.

I learned about Encircled and had the Chrysalis Cardi back in 2015. I love how this wrap dress can be worn in 8+ different ways (see  all the ways here ).

• Premium quality and made to last
• Can be worn 8+ different ways
• Sustainability – They use the most natural and sustainable fabrics available and are a Certified B Corp and Oeko Tex 100 Certified
• Heavy Fabric
• Will Wrinkle
• Must be line-dried and takes a while to dry, but I think the fabric has since changed.
• Not all the ways have a flattering fit.

Many of my favorite dresses are discontinued now. It’s worth noting that some travel apparel brands that shut down include Rec Room, Vacaystyle, and the Adventure Dress (the website is still there, but all their dresses have been sold out for several years).

Do you own any of these?

More Travel Dresses – Honorable Mentions

• The Undress  – the dress that lets you undress anywhere.
• Uniqlo A-line Mini Bra Dress  – love when the bra is built in. So comfy.
• Toad & Co Camp-co Romper – as long as you don’t mind traveling in a romper. It feels like linen but has a cleaner footprint.

If you want to avoid wrinkles, use these packing tips:

• Don’t overpack.
• Lay the dress flat inside a plastic dry cleaning bag. Fold it in its natural shape.
• Pack them last or on top of everything else.
• Roll softer garments.
• Use a  mini travel steamer .
• If your clothes are wrinkled, hang them in the bathroom while you take a steamy hot shower.

What do you think of these dresses? Which of them would you most likely wear? Have you tried any travel dresses (the ones are specifically made for travel)?

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Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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• Clothing Reviews

The 20 Best Travel Dresses of 2024

Including lightweight minis and long, flowy maxis.

In This Article

• How to Shop

Take Our Word For It

Real Simple / David Hattan

Globetrotting requires a love of exploration, a curiosity about the world around you, and, of course, a vacation-ready wardrobe. A good pair of joggers and comfortable shoes are a must, but the often-overlooked (and underrated) travel dress will see you through transit and sightseeing in comfort and style.

“With their versatility and ease, travel dresses are the perfect companion for a variety of destinations,” says Angelique Coleman , stylist at Stitch Fix. “You can look polished with minimal effort while keeping your suitcase light.”

To help you find the best travel dresses for your upcoming trips, we researched countless options in a wide variety of styles, sizes, prices, and fits. We also asked Coleman for her expert insight on what makes a dress good for travel, how to keep clothes unwrinkled in suitcases , and more.

Best Maxi Travel Dresses

“Versatility and comfort should be top considerations when you’re looking for a maxi dress for travel,” Coleman says, as “you want something you can wear for a range of occasions. You can wear a maxi wear with sneakers or sandals during the day and then strappy heels in the evening. You’ll be able to pack lighter, saving room for some travel shopping.”

With six patterned options and a lightweight, flowy skirt, the Abercombie & Fitch Smocked Bodice Maxi Dress is perfect for warm-weather vacations. For a sleeveless design and a soft knit fabric, the Banana Republic Knit Cross-Back Maxi Dress will keep you comfortable on any trip, and you can choose from two neutral colors and regular or petite sizes.

Best Travel Dresses With Pockets

When you’re traveling, you need an easy way to store your most essential items on the go, which is where dresses with pockets come in. “Pockets are a huge bonus in a travel dress,” Coleman says. “They let you keep your must-haves close and could eliminate the need to carry around a bag for sightseeing adventures.”

We love this simple and cute above-the-knee Transcend Dress from Athleta. Made from a mix of nylon and lycra, it’s as comfortable as it gets and comes with built-in shorts with pockets to store small items like your phone, wallet, or hotel key card. For a less casual option, this Linen Button Front Dress from Quince is pretty and elegant. It’s available in 11 colors and patterns, made from soft, lightweight linen, and has a removable tie waist.

Best T-Shirt Travel Dresses

T-shirt dresses are known for their comfort and ease, making them excellent choices for travel. “Depending on your travel plans, you may want to opt for something laid back and simple, like a T-shirt maxi dress,” Coleman says. If you have a long plane ride in store, she adds, you’re going to love this casual, comfortable style.

For example, this casual and cute Essential Tee Dress from Athleta has a comfortable relaxed fit, breathable and stretchy feel, and versatile crew neck design. For a slightly elevated option, the Linen Daytripper Shirtdress from Everlane is ideal for those who love a loose fit, chest pockets, and high-low hems.

Best Wrap Travel Dresses

Wrap dresses are a classic, beloved look, and depending on your itinerary, they can be ideal for travel. “If you’ve got special plans on the horizon when you get to your destination, you may want to seek out a wrap dress,” Coleman says. “The classic silhouette gives you the comfort you want for traveling while offering more versatility.”

For a flowy wrap dress that’s made from breathable, soft jersey knit fabric that you’ll feel comfortable wearing all day long, the Tercel Jersey Midi Wrap Dress from Quince is a great option. Another is the Everlane Ribbed Wrap Midi Dress , which many reviewers actually call “the perfect dress for travel.” With its ribbed detailing, it’s both casual and sophisticated, and we love its dropped shoulders, wide sleeves, and ultra-soft fabric.

Best Travel Dresses Under $70

Although you can certainly splurge on travel dresses, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that offer the proper durability, versatility, and comfort. “You’re sure to find styles and materials that meet your preferences without compromising on quality,” Coleman says.

Take the Traveler Mini Dress from Abercrombie & Fitch: As its name implies, this low-cost dress is custom-made for travel, with its built-in shorts (with pockets!), comfortable knit fabric, and versatile design. It’s also available in 14 pretty colors and patterns. If you’re looking to add a second dress to your travel wardrobe, the Halara Softlyzero Airy Backless Dress offers a cute and functional design with built-in shorts (also with pockets), moisture-wicking fabric, 21 color options, and an inclusive size range that goes from XS to 4X.

How to Shop for Travel Dresses Like a Pro

Packability.

One major factor to consider when shopping for a travel dress is how packable it is. After all, you’ll want to be able to fit as much as possible in your suitcases and not have to worry about the items getting damaged or badly wrinkled. Coleman recommends buying dresses made from soft, stretchy materials like polyester or spandex, as they’re easy to care for if they get dirty or wrinkled. “Washability matters when you have to pack light and are on the go,” she says.

Coleman also recommends avoiding white linen if you’re packing tightly, because although the material is popular for its breathability, it does tend to wrinkle more easily if it isn’t packed well. That’s not to say you can’t wear linen—just make sure you fold it into your suitcase nicely and bring some wrinkle spray.

Versatility

A great travel dress shouldn’t only work for a specific trip or activity, but it should also be rewearable for numerous occasions and outside of the trip. “Don’t shy away from wearing your new travel dress when you’ve landed back at home,” Coleman says.

She recommends picking travel dresses with features that you can change up depending on the occasion you’re wearing them to, the weather, and more. “Adjustable or removable straps are another feature I look for in dresses for travel,” Coleman says.

Destination and Activities

“If you’re heading to a tropical destination, keep an eye out for lightweight and breathable dresses made from linen or cotton to stay cool and comfortable,” Coleman says. If your plans are more city based, she recommends opting for structured yet breezy options that can pair with walking shoes and have “chic and sophisticated appeal to take from day to night.”

For trips with hiking or other sporty activities involved, Coleman advises focusing on athletic dresses that come with built-in shorts so you don’t have to sacrifice style for coverage, and you can sport them with your activewear sneakers . Plus, she adds, athletic dresses “tend to be made of moisture-wicking materials, making them a must-have for toasty temperatures.”

Questions You Might Ask

What kind of dress is good for travel.

Any dress that is comfortable and easily reusable is likely going to be good for travel—especially if it has pockets and/or adjustable straps—but Coleman recommends maxi dresses, in particular, due to their comfort, coverage, and versatility. Plus, you can pair your maxi with practically any shoe and it’ll look good, including sneakers,sandals, and heels. Coleman also calls out linen dresses as being fantastic for travel because the fabric is breathable and offers natural cooling properties. “Not having to deal with an uncomfortable fit means you can put all your attention on your trip,” she says.

What dress materials won’t wrinkle?

As much as we’d all like to never have to worry about wrinkled clothing, it’s a common occurrence during travel, since the pieces are usually packed up tightly and taken from place to place. That said, picking materials that are designed to be wrinkle resistant can make a huge difference, such as jersey, knits, and some synthetic blends like polyester or spandex.. “These materials make for light and easy packing while lessening the chance you’ll have to find the iron ,” she explains.

This article was written by Rachel Simon , a writer for Real Simple , Better Homes & Gardens , The New York Times , and many other publications. She frequently covers fashion and beauty, and in addition to researching many travel dresses, she spoke to Angelique Coleman , a stylist at the personal styling site Stitch Fix.

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16 Best Travel Dresses for Women (With Pockets!)

Written by Becca

Updated on July 31st, 2024

I figured out the best dresses for travel, and they’re a mix of cute and versatile styles with wrinkle-resistant fabrics and even pockets. See the list here.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Best Travel Dresses

Bluffworks Threshold T-Shirt Dress

• Free Fly Women’s Breeze Dress

Quince 100% European Linen Sleeveless Swing Dress

Public Rec Go-To Tank Dress

Bluffworks Threshold Tie Waist T-Shirt Dress

• Free Fly Bamboo Heritage Midi Dress

Aviator Chambray Travel Dress

• Icebreaker Women’s Merino Granary Sleeveless Dress
• Quince Tencel Jersey Fit & Flare Mini Dress

Athleta Elation V-Neck Dress

• Patagonia Regenerative Organic Certified™ Cotton Essential Dress

tentree Arden Dress

prAna Jewel Lake Summer Dress

KUHL Vantage Dress

REI Co-op Trailmade Dress

Peruvian Connection Le Marais Dress

For me, it’s always been a challenge to pack a bag and choose just one or two dresses that will be versatile enough to wear in different types of weather and various occasions for a single trip.

In fact, one thing I never let myself do was explore the different types of cool travel dresses out there, for women on the go. I’ve always packed a patterned maxi dress, layered it with a jean jacket, and called it a day. But I could be doing better!

I’ve learned that there are travel dresses out there made by great brands that have invented fabrics that zap moisture and sweat, minimize odors (who doesn’t get stinky on a plane?) and come with pockets .

Browse our 5 favorite picks

• Bluffworks Threshold T-Shirt Dress Check Availability
• Quince Linen Sleeveless Swing Dress Check Availability
• Free Fly Women's Breeze Dress Check Availability
• Public Rec Go-To Tank Dress Check Availability
• KUHL Vantage Dress Check Availability

In the list that follows, I’ve picked a few of the best dresses on the market for women travelers, so that you don’t have to do the work! Let’s dig in.

Bluffworks Threshold T-Shirt Dress

If there was ever a T-shirt dress that really rocked my world, it’s this new one from Bluffworks , the brand that builds great travel clothes for women. In the past, I’ve found T-shirt dresses to hit the wrong places on my body, but this one is both flattering and comfy. Plus, it has hidden POCKETS!

The Threshold T-shirt Dress is made from the Bluffworks proprietary Threshold fabric (I also have the Threshold tee). It works well on travel days.

My favorite part of the T-shirt dress is that it comes in petite sizing and I actually feel great in it. Regular dresses often hit my legs too far down and look like I am drowning. This dress comes in regular sizes by default, and if you’re short like I am, opt for petite sizes!

I think this T-shirt travel dress is priced pretty affordably for all the versatility it provides. I could wear it from spring to fall, layered with scarves, cardigans or tights and boots for cool nights on a trip. In these photos, I’m wearing it with my Troubadour Momentum backpack .

Check out this stylish dress to wear on an upcoming trip!

Free Fly Women’s Breeze Dress

If you’re taking a warm-weather trip that’s bound to get you into humidity, try out the Free Fly Women’s Breeze Dress . I own it in Baltic Amber and in size XS, and the feel of it is like nothing I’ve ever had in my closet before. It’s bouncy and soft on my torso and legs. Note: while the Heritage Midi Dress from Free Fly fits me great in the torso, this one is a bit big and looser.

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This dress folds up small in a packing cube, and is made of a special material blend that’s meant to handle heat and humidity like a breeze . The best feature I found is the hidden zipper pocket in the right-side slash pocket. I use this for tiny things like coins or a key.

Is Free Fly worth it? See my Free Fly product experience review .

Free Fly Women's Breeze Dress

Embrace the breeze in this lightweight dress that handles heat and humidity.

Quince 100% European Linen Sleeveless Swing Dress

Everything from Quince has been so affordable, in my experience. I tried the Quince 100% European Linen Sleeveless Swing Dress and absolutely loved the classic summer style.

The only thing about it to gripe about is that the buttons are a little hard to open, when you first get it. I opened one, and got it over my head, and then I kept that button open. I really like the colors that this dress comes in, and I chose Olive. The two pockets on the sides are perfect for sliding my hands into, and they are functional during travel.

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I like the timeless chic style of this travel dress, and the side pockets.

Public Rec Go-To Tank Dress

I’m so glad that Public Rec has come out with some dresses! The cousin of the Public Rec Go-To Dress , the Go-To Tank Dress is a nice travel staple with a funky open back for style. It has a flirty fit and a top half that reminds me of the Public Rec muscle tank that I enjoy wearing as a travel shirt.

With a blend of Pima cotton and spandex, it’s an athletic fit and the material is durable. This one is great for travel in pretty hot temperatures and could be paired with my Public Rec Adapt Belt Bag .

My tip about sizing: Public Rec typically runs “true to size,” in my experience, with their products like the Essential Tee, Luxe Fleece collection and joggers. The Go-To Tank Dress runs a bit wider than I’d like, so I have some fabric gaps at the side that will probably make this dress less of a “go” for me. Keep this in mind about your build if you like this dress, because it’s good for larger-chested women (proportionally) as well as women who might feel like they have more of a standard (non-petite) body type.

Keep it simple with the Public Rec Go-To Tank Dress, a chic travel dress.

Bluffworks Threshold Tie Waist T-Shirt Dress

The Threshold Tie-Waist T-Shirt Dress is the second travel dress from Bluffworks. It has a flattering look that is not too tight, and originally the tie-waist scared me off, but it works out really well. It can be worn in the front (my preference), or even the back. Check out the photos here of me modeling the six usable pockets.

At an affordable price point for the quality you get with Bluffworks, I think this one’s an easy decision. This type of dress can be totally casual for a day to day while traveling, and would look nice as a base layer for more business casual outfits if you have that use during your trip.

This one differs from the Bluffworks original T-shirt dress because it has the nice touch of cuffed sleeves, and I like this a lot. One of the biggest benefits is that this tie-waist style is a classic, so if you put your budget toward a dress like this, it’ll last for years.

See why this travel dress makes a great wardrobe staple.

Free Fly Bamboo Heritage Midi Dress

I slid this Free Fly dress on when I got it. It’s called a “midi” dress because it is supposed to fall at the mid-calf, but for me, at 5’2,” the hemline falls at my ankles in size XS. Keep this in mind! I actually really like that the bamboo viscose fabric feels a little heavier than other dresses I’ve worn, becuase it doesn’t show underwear lines and I appreciate this.

The Heritage Midi Dress has UPF 50+ sun protection, and it is fitted at the top with a natural flow throughout the rest of the body. I like the flattering scoop neck and the hand pockets at the waist! It looks good with a jean jacket when I put on a layer for cooler evenings on a vacation.

To see more products from Free Fly, check out my list of the best women’s travel shorts and you’ll find some recommendations there.

Free Fly Women's Bamboo Heritage Midi Dress

A breezy and comfortable cotton-bamboo viscose dress with a scoop neck.

Aviator Chambray Travel Dress

This long-sleeve denim-look travel dress from Aviator is a new one of my travel finds. It’s a sturdy chambray and I can dress it up with sandals in spring or boots in the fall. What stands out to me about this dress is of course, the pockets, which even have Aviator’s signature YKK zippers.

This chambray dress has a waist tie for closure and flattery. For my Aviator dress, I took Aviator up on their FREE tailoring, and had it taken in at the shoulders and at the length because I’m petite. Now it fits great! Most women say it fits between “to size” and “on the big side.” So, you might want to size down.

I prefer to wear it with the sleeves folded up, as I’m not one for the long-sleeve look. For more photos, see my detailed Aviator Chambray Travel Dress review . My tip : This dress is currently being discontinued and is on “dead stock” only, so it’s discounted on Aviator’s website ! Most sizes are available, but note that it is Final Sale .

Try out Aviator's newest travel product for women during your next trip.

Icebreaker Women’s Merino Granary Sleeveless Dress

I learned about the Icebreaker brand because Dan really likes his Icebreaker merino wool crew sweatshirt . I was glad to find out that Icebreaker makes great women’s apparel in their signature merino wool blend.

Merino wool is one of the best materials for travel, because it’s soft and strong, as well as lightweight and fine. The Granary Sleeveless Dress is 100% merino wool and is a minimalist travel dress with a subtle cap sleeve and a modest knee length.

A dress like this would be good if you plan to take a trip that involves some sightseeing that requires modest dress, like religious temples or sacred places — think Israel or Sri Lanka .

As for fit, it runs pretty long and overall, I think Icebreaker runs big in women’s sizes. If you are a pretty standard build and average height, you still might want to size down . I have Icebreaker’s merino tee for women, and that runs big, too. Check out my photos for a close-up on the fabric and for how small it folds up in your luggage!

Icebreaker Women's Merino Granary Sleeveless Dress

Stay cool and comfortable with the Icebreaker Women's Merino Granary Sleeveless Dress, a versatile piece for any wardrobe.

Quince Tencel Jersey Fit & Flare Mini Dress

I tested out Quince’s Tencel Jersey Fit & Flare Mini Dress and was very happy with out comfortable it was. The tencel has a certain weight to it, which makes the dress hang off my body and not stick to my legs. That’s a plus.

My favorite aspect of it is the flattering neckline. I find I have trouble finding necklines that make me feel confident, and this one has a great shape, with the scoop and straps. Being as short as I am, it ran longer on me than it looks on the models on the product pages. Another highlight: handy and functional slit pockets at the sides.

Quince Cotton Tencel Jersey Fit & Flare Mini Dress

Travel in style with Quince's #1 best-selling travel dress.

Athleta Elation V-Neck Dress

I became familiar with Athleta via my Athleta leggings with pockets that I mention in my list of the best travel pants for women . They make dresses, too! The Elation V-Neck Hybrid Dress is a pretty and flattering summery dress that I can’t stop looking at because it’s so breezy and easy.

It’s an ultralightweight dress made of polyester and spandex that comes in inclusive sizes of XS to 3XL! It’s fitted at the torso and then flares out for keeping you cool.

Embrace comfort and elegance with the Athleta Elation V-Neck Dress, perfect for casual outings or dressier occasions.

Patagonia Regenerative Organic Certified™ Cotton Essential Dress

This long-sleeve casual dress from Patagonia caught my eye because it is super chill. And of course, I had to search for if it has pockets: it does! It has a totally relaxed fit, so think of pairing it with walking sneakers and a baseball cap. You could also wear it with leggings and boots in winter or fall.

As for specifics, this Patagonia travel dress is Fair Trade Certified™, and made from 100% Regenerative Organic Certified™ cotton. It has raglan-style sleeves, two slit pockets and that “Retro Fitz Roy Patagonia logo” that every traveler wants on their chest. What’s not to love?

Patagonia Cotton Essential Dress

This laid-back long-sleeve dress for chilled-out travelers has pockets and a cozy vibe.

tentree Arden Dress

The Arden Dress from tentree has pockets — can you believe it? This travel dress is a blend of Lyocell, recycled polyester and organic cotton that has a two-way stretch knit. For now, it comes in the “core color” of Meteorite Black.

I like the gathered neck, hand pockets, elastic gathered waist and sleeveless look. I’d wear this one in Central America or Southeast Asia, or a summer in Europe. This dress is specifically meant for summer, and for keeping you cool with the gentle fabric. Lastly, it’s easily machine washable.

Embrace comfort and sustainability with the tentree Arden Dress, crafted from recycled fabrics.

prAna Jewel Lake Summer Dress

prAna’s cool high-neck flare dress is stretchy with a detailed back. It’s the only one of its kind, in this entire list of travel dresses!

There are pockets in this travel dress, too (two hand slit pockets at the hips). It has a built-in shelf bra (with removable pads), so that you don’t need to wear one if you don’t need to! I also think it’s an ideal day-to-night dress to bring on a warm and tropical trip. In the black color, you could even dress it up a whole bit more.

This high-neck relaxed dress is made for warm-weather holiday breaks.

KUHL Vantage Dress

KUHL is an adventure and outdoors brand, so I was glad to see they have a dress available for women travelers. The Vantage dress comes in four bold colors, and is sized XS-XL.

As all KUHL products are created for being on the go and being active, the dress has moisture management, odor resistance, sun protection at UPF 50+ and a four-way fabric stretch. There are pockets right below the elastic waist!

This travel dress is fairly casual, so if your trip is active (I probably wouldn’t wear this dress for biking or climbing) like if you’re camping, doing a lot of walking or going on an easy hike, pack this dress in your bag.

Dress to impress with the KUHL Vantage Dress, a versatile piece that combines comfort with contemporary fashion.

REI Co-op Trailmade Dress

Zipper pocket alert: the REI Co-op Trailmade Dress has one, for three pockets in total. It’s a dress that was actually designed for women who love to hike and be outdoors, with UPF 50+ sun protection.

As for the fabric, the REI Trailmade Dress is made of a lightweight nylon/spandex blend with 2-way stretch. It’s quick-drying and moisture-wicking, making it the ultimate dress for “roughing it.”

REI makes a point that this dress is geared toward women of all sizes, as it comes in sizes XS to 3XL.

Travel in style and comfort with the REI Co-op Trailmade Dress, perfect for all types of trips.

Peruvian Connection Le Marais Dress

Probably the most elegant dress in the list, this summery travel dress has a beautifully flattering neckline and a flare hem that will look pretty in photos. It’s a blend of pima cotton and spandex, so it has a slight stretch in its softness. It’s perfect as a go-anywhere dress that’ll pack up into a compression cube and be ready to go.

Peruvian Connection is a company founded from the love of Peruvian textiles, evolving into a global company. The brand’s mission is to support Andean artisans with luxurious fibers and to provide well-paying job opportunities locally.

Travel elegantly in this timeless dress with pockets

Why should you trust me?

I’ve been traveling on my own since 2009, and I know what makes a good piece of clothing to have in my suitcase!

I’ve been through items that have broken or ripped during trips, as well as clothes that have shown sweat, haven’t washed easily and haven’t stood the test of time.

The garments I recommend in this list are clothes I have personally tested already, or ones I plan to wear, and I’m happy with how they look and how they feel.

Also, the brands listed are ones from which I already own other travel clothes (check out my list of the best women’s pants for travel , as well as the best women’s shirts for travel ).

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8 Best Travel Dresses Of 2024, Tested By Travel Experts

Our top options include CSB's Racer Back Maxi dress and Lululemon's Align dress.

Where a travel dress differs from any other standard dress is in its durability and ability to be easily styled up or down. Depending on accessories, a travel dress can look as fancy or casual as you want it to be, but its material will usually be made from wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying, or stretchy fabric. This kind of material makes it comfy to wear on long travel days or days where you'll be getting a lot of movement in.

Best travel dress

Most Breathable

Lululemon align dress.

Best Overall

Csb racer back maxi dress.

Most Polished

Uniqlo ultra stretch airism sleeveless dress.

When shopping for a travel dress, you should consider how the dress can be layered with other items to adapt to different weather conditions, says Addie Bell , CEO of Jetset and Travel, a travel consulting agency and affiliate of SmartFlyer. She also recommends checking that it's suitable for both day and night activities, which will maximize its utility—you can use it while traveling and during your actual trip.

Here are a few other things to consider.

What to consider

Since travel days often include a lot of walking, you'll want to make sure your dress' fabric is breathable. This will also come in handy if you're traveling to a warm weather destination. Breathable fabrics Bell recommends include cotton or linen. Other materials you can consider are jersey, spandex blends, and certain synthetics, like polyester. "[These] wrinkle-resistant materials...are best if you need to maintain a polished look after being packed," Bell says.

When traveling, Bell typically goes for longer dresses since they offer more coverage and comfort, Bell says. But, "a midi or knee-length dress strikes a perfect balance between style and practicality, and is typically suitable for a variety of activities and settings," she adds. When choosing the length of her dress, Bell also considers what the weather is like. "Longer dresses provide more coverage and protection from the sun, while shorter dresses can be more comfortable in hot climates," she says. Whatever the length you're comfortable with, she recommends making sure your dress allows for easy movement, especially when doing a lot of walking or activities.

The color of your dress is your preference, but Bell says that neutral tones like black, navy, white, and beige are versatile and easy to mix and match with other wardrobe pieces. "Subtle patterns can also help hide wrinkles and stains, making the dress more travel-friendly."

On the other side, bright colors can add a fun, vibrant touch to travel and can be used to complement the destination you're visiting, Bell says. "I always recommend sticking within a similar color palette to ensure they match other items you’re bringing," she adds.

How we chose

For the past few months, Women's Health editors, including lifestyle and commerce editor Jasmine Gomez, researched and tested the best travel dresses for jetsetting in style and comfort. In addition to testing dresses based on durability, material feel, and their ability to stand up to lots of movement and long hours, we also consulted travel expert Addie Bell, founder and CEO of Jetset and Travel, a travel consulting agency. She's also an avid traveler who also provides trip and packing advice.

Before you plan your next trip to one of the award winners in our 2024 Healthy Travel Awards , below find the eight best travel dresses, tested by travel experts.

Lululemon's Align dress boasts some of the many features Lulu's cult and editor-favorite Align leggings do. We found that it's super lightweight, breathable, and buttery-soft. What's even better is what's underneath the dress—a built-in bra and a shorts liner with drop-in pockets. The dress is on the shorter side, but the shorts provide reassurance when bending over to pick up luggage or during other travel-related tasks.

The dress is also designed from sweat-wicking material, so those who run hot will not only like this option because it leaves more skin exposed, but because it keeps that skin that is covered up cool and dry. When you're not traveling in it, it also makes a great option for low-impact activity, since the dress was actually designed for yoga.

After having our editors put over 10 travel dress options to the test, the Racer Back Maxi Dress from CSB came out on top for its stretchy feel that makes it easy to move around in, polished look, and easy to style nature.

"Running to the airport is stressful, which is why I love this dress for a comfortable, effortless look that seems like I actually spent time getting dressed," says lifestyle and commerce editor Jasmine Gomez. She likes that you can easily pair it with jewelry, a nice bag, or even a sun hat to make an outfit that's great for travel, but also ideal for immediately hitting the streets once you reach your destination.

To offer an ideal fit, the dress is made from a ribbed fabric blend that offers slight compression, giving this dress a shapewear-like feel that isn't overly constricting. Its maxi length, low scoop neckline, and racerback design also makes it perfect for those who want a full coverage option that's still ideal for warm weather, but even colder temps when it's layered with other clothing.

Though there's a limited number of color options available, the three it does come in–brown, gray, and black—are great basic tones that pair together nicely with almost anything.

Read more: Best Travel Pants For Women

Those traveling for work or looking for a more polished option will like Uniqlo's AIRism Sleeveless dress. Though you'll look ready for an interview, the dress is very functional for traveling, since its fabric is stretchy, features pockets on both sides, and is made of quick-drying material. The dress's fabric is made from a polyester blend, which is what lends to its more polished look—it's a way less sportier option than Lululemon's Align dress for sure.

Most people will also find that the dress has a flattering fit. It's designed with a fit-and-flare silohouette created by panel lines that are cut to create a contoured look. Our testers that value sustainability also gave the dress bonus points for being partly made using recycled materials.

Vuori Pose Sands Dress

Vuori's Pose Sands Dress is an excellent pick for those that plan on walking a ton of miles while sightseeing and taking photos for the 'gram. Though it's on the longer side, the side slit makes it really easy to move in and the rib knit fabric makes it resistant to wrinkles.

The dress is also designed to hug the body in all the right places. In fact, we found that it offers a bit of compression, though the slit alleviates some of that tension, making it a next-level comfy option. Editors particularly liked that it can be paired with either sneakers, heels, or boots depending on the look you're going for or the terrain or weather you're conquering. If you're not wearing it to the airport, you'll like that the dress is a space-saver. It packs light and compactly, making it a great option for those traveling only with carry-ons.

Beyond Yoga City Chic Dress

If you've looked around recently, you know cargo is in, and this dress from Beyond Yoga is both trendy and functional. It's designed to flatter all body types, thanks to its adjustable cinched waist. The waistband's stretchy drawcord lets you achieve a customized fit that feels uniquely comfortable to you.

Our testers particularly like the dress's spacey pockets, which lets you store important documents, like an ID or boarding pass while you're traveling. The dress is also made with a two-way zipper, which makes it super easy to go to the bathroom without having to scrunch your dress up in risk of wrinkling it. The collar gives it an elevated look, and its quick-drying polyester fabric, a soft feel worth wearing on long travel days.

Anrabess Summer Casual Tank Dress

Those looking for a cozy, put-together option will like this Amazon dress. It's looser in nature, but pleated and tiered with a deep v-neckline, and those small details make all the difference. Plus, you can't beat its budget-friendly price of less than $40.

Depending on what you pair it with, the dress is appropriate for a variety of settings from a morning stroll to a more formal dinner, and its flowy nature makes it a breeze to travel in, too. We like that its pockets are very roomy, and that it has a lightweight, non-constricting feel, which is ideal for long days on your feet or longer flights or commutes. Plus, the dress is available in over 10 colors, so it isn't hard to find one you particularly love.

Grecerelle Short Sleeve Casual Summer Dress

While the other dresses on this list are mostly available in neutral tones, this one offers a lot more color options. You can buy it in basic colors, like black, white, and navy blue, but it's also available in floral, paisley patterns, and more. Made from a blend of rayon and spandex, the dress is also breathable and stretchy.

We found that the fabric is very similar to a nice t-shirt, so its comfy feel makes it great for wearing for hours on end. Though it doesn't wrinkle easily, this dress is more prone to wrinkles than others on this list, which is something to keep in mind if you hate ironing or steaming. Some of our testers also pointed out that the waistband is one of the most forgiving on this list, making it a great option for those with wider hips who don't like drawstring or elastic waistbands.

Sweaty Betty Sweaty Betty Power Workout Dress

Tenniscore is in, and it turns out that many tennis dresses actually make good travel dresses, too. That's because they're designed to withstand a ton of movement, sweaty activity, and come with built-in features like shorts and a bra to offer a little more coverage than a traditional dress.

Made with an elastane blend, our travel testers like that this dress is stretchy but contoured, creating a flattering, sculpted fit. The material is quick-drying and moisture-wicking, which means it can stand up against warm weather, wet travel days, and more. Since the fabric is on the thinner side, it's also rolls or packs nicely into any luggage, saving you more space for your bulkier items.

Meet the expert

• Addie Bell is founder and CEO of Jetset and Travel, a travel consulting agency, and a travel consultant who offers trip and packing advice.

Read more about the best travel gear

Travel Essentials | Best Travel Backpacks | Best Travel Coffee Mugs | Best Travel Pillows | Best Carry On Bags | Best Travel Journals

Jasmine Gomez is the Commerce Editor at Women’s Health, where she cover the best product recommendations across beauty, health, lifestyle, fitness, and more. When she's not shopping for a living, she enjoys karaoke and dining out more than she cares to admit. Follow her @JazzeGomez .  

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Dresses , FASHION , Travel Clothing

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An effortless way to feel comfy yet feminine and put-together, dresses are a staple travel item for so many TFG readers! Gear up for your sunny trips with one of these reader-favorite summer travel dresses !

Best Travel Dress Styles

Table of contents.

Dresses are hit any time of year, but they’re particularly popular for a summer trip!  Having a versatile selection of dresses that are easy to put together, take up little space, and can be worn for a variety of travel activities is ideal for anyone.

However, it can be a little daunting to know what type of dress is suitable for your destination and even the weather, as some places can be more humid or dry than others. And some places are a bit more fashionable than others, such as Europe , so it’s a fine balance to know the best travel dress women pack.

Check out these top tips on how to choose the best womens travel dresses that are timeless, stylish, and ideal for warmer weather!

The Merino Wool Travel Dress b y Wool& can be worn in summer or when it gets chillier out!

Dresses are the perfect way to stay cool (and cute) in the summer heat! When searching for the best summer travel dresses , readers suggest natural fabrics or fabrics like rayon that are highly breathable and cooling. 

One TFGer shares how she keeps cool in the summer, “I try to look for dresses in cotton or other natural materials.” 

Linen is the perfect option for beach destinations and is super chic for sightseeing in Europe , too! You can’t go wrong with a cotton dress, whether a crisp t-shirt dress or a jersey knit maxi dress , as they’ll feel cozy and super airy. 

Rayon and nylon are loved for their comfy, wrinkle-free, moisture-wicking, and vibrantly colored fabric. Readers pack sundresses made from these fabrics for everything from exploring tropical Thailand to island hopping in Greece ! 

Merino wool is temperature-regulating, breathable, and moisture-wicking, so it’s another great fabric to look out for, especially if you have an active trip planned.

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

The Quince Jersey Ruched Dress is wearable in many scenarios, whether leisure or business travel!

Versatility

Versatility is always an important factor to keep in mind when figuring out your perfect travel wardrobe, so be sure to consider whether you can wear your dress(es) for multiple occasions and various activities. It’s always a plus if you can wear your dress out and about with comfy shoes for sightseeing and then dress it up with some nice sandals and jewelry for going out to dinner. 

Travel dresses that don’t wrinkle and will keep you at a comfy temp are great because you can wear them on your flight and then jump straight into a day of exploring your destination. TFG readers especially love simple, sleek dresses made of technical fabrics that can be worn to a business conference and then on a hike! 

Be sure to consider all the activities you have planned, and see if your perfect travel dress can handle more than a few of them!

The Loveappella Maxi Dress is a classic style that readers adore for summer travels. Also wearing Wallaroo Sun Hat and carrying Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody

Overall, more neutral colors and classic cuts for dresses work best for travel. For example, the best travel dresses for Italy , in cities like Rome , Milan , or even New York , or Paris , is a great opportunity to rock some stylish pieces that are timeless but still emphasize your personal style. Readers recommend trying a chic midi for sightseeing or a flowy silk number for an evening out!

If you like colors that pop more, brighter colors and bold patterns are wonderful for   Thailand or Southeast Asia . Go for a cute floral summer dress or an easy t-shirt dress that can transition from day to night. 

If you’re heading to a city where the locals tend to dress modestly, midi and maxi dresses are perfect options for keeping cool and looking fabulous while dressing appropriately for the destination. 

Be sure to keep in mind sleeve length and necklines, too — while sleeveless options and deep v-necks are feminine, airy, and fun, travel dresses with sleeves and higher necklines might be better for more conservative countries or when touring churches and other religious or cultural sites. 

Remember that no matter where you’re heading, being comfortable and confident is the number one priority (as well as respecting the local custom in terms of style or length of dress), so whether bright and colorful or neutral and monochromatic, long, midi, or short, if you love it, wear it!

The Columbia Freezer III Dress has Omini-Shade and blocks UVA and UVB rays

Extra Features

Once the boxes for comfort and style are checked off, it doesn’t have to stop there! Dresses made of various tech fabrics offer so much in the way of function and practicality while still being super cute. 

A moisture-wicking and quick dry travel dress will make warm-weather travels a breeze, as it’ll keep you feeling (and smelling) fresh after sporty excursions or hours of sightseeing under the sun. And if you’re looking for some extra sun protection for those long days spent outdoors, opt for a dress that has UPF protection built in.

If you’re worried about wrinkles, look to travel dress wrinkle-free fabrics such as nylon, rayon, and certain knit fabrics, which are naturally wrinkle-resistant. (Bonus: these fabrics tend to be lightweight, breathable, and packable!)

Now that we’ve covered how to select the right women’s travel dresses for summer , check out the readers’ most popular picks for the hot season!

Best Travel Dresses for Europe Summer Vacations

Europe is such a popular travel destination in the summer, and what better place to roam around in a chic and comfy dress? Trips in Europe often entail a LOT of walking, and because summer in Europe tends to be very hot, staying cool and comfy is key. 

Readers like to strike a balance between fashion and function so they can enjoy their trip to the fullest and feel chic and confident while doing so! 

Below we’ve listed some classic and chic dresses, but if you’re searching for more, check out the 10 Best Travel Dresses for Europe .

Gevomir Halter Neck Summer Dress with Packable Braided Straw Hat

Gemovir Halter Neck Summer Dress

After Editor-in-Chief Alex wore this summer dress from Gevomir all around Rome and other European cities and shared it with readers, it’s become a huge TFG fave, many of whom claim it’s the best travel dress for Europe ! 

Light and breathable, this number has an elastic band that flatters the waistline, a chic high neckline, and a flowy, ruffled hem. To top it off, it’s super versatile and can be styled in a lot of different ways, it’s a dream in the heat, and the fabric doesn’t wrinkle!

A traveler says, “This is such a cute and lightweight travel dress , and is perfect for different body types. It photographs really well and was flattering and comfortable, even in scorching Lucerne weather!” Choose from a wide range of colors and sizes S-XXL .

Check out why Gevomir printed halter summer dress is perfect for Europe!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince

Quince 100% European Linen Dress

Effortlessly elegant and comfy, you can never go wrong with a linen dress for Europe — especially when it looks as cute as this one! Quince’s 100% European Linen black travel dress is a versatile piece with a polished collar, buttons, short sleeves, and a midi length, so it’s perfect for both business and leisure travel. 

The linen is airy, high quality, and lightweight and can be cinched up to enhance the waistline with the removable belt! 

A wearer raves, “I love this dress! I have a feeling I will be living in it this summer. It fits perfectly, the fabric is lovely, and the colors are beautiful! Can easily be dressed up or down!” It comes in sizes XS-XL .

Shop Sizes 1X-3X: Caslon

Caslon Tie Front Gauze Dress

Another cute midi, Caslon tie front cotton dress is snug up top with a long, flowing skirt. Its cotton fabric keeps this dress cool and breathable and feels nice and soft. Wearers rave about how comfy and cute this dress is, both for wearing casually on summer days or for special occasions! 

A wearer goes into detail, “I bought this dress for a trip and wore it nearly every day. So comfortable and attractive. I’m busty and found the smocking was flattering – defined but didn’t accentuate.” Available in sizes 1X-3X .

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Pact

Pact Fit & Flare Tie Back Dress

Elevated yet cozy and easy to wear, this Pact short  dress is a travel rockstar. Cute details like the cinch waist and the tie on the back make this unique looking, while the straps offer enough bra coverage. Yet this functional, low-maintenance organic cotton fabric keeps it cool and durable. 

A wearer shares more, “Comfortable dress. Had super strong smell straight out of the bag but a wash got rid of it. Great quality and feel. Will definitely purchase additional clothing once my preferred size is back in stock for some styles.”  It comes in sizes XS-3XL .

Shop Sizes XXS-XL: Carve Designs

Carve Designs Nellie Linen Dress

This Carve Designs midi travel dress is beyond dreamy, made of soft linen that’ll keep you feeling cool and comfortable. The loose design features a flattering neckline with a flowing skirt, and wearers of all sizes say it fits perfectly. 

It’ll look cute with everything from sneakers to sandals , and you can store your lip balm or other small essentials in the side pockets! 

One wearer says, “Cute dress, Perfect for summer. The dark fawn is a pretty color and the linen materials is lightweight and comfortable. I’ll pair it with a jean jacket in the fall. Love it!”  It’s offered in sizes XXS-XL . 

Best Moisture Wicking Travel Dresses for Hot Destinations

Good travel dresses for summer are usually moisture wicking ones. These dresses are made from technical fabrics that draw moisture away from the body, keeping things fresh and cool without showing any signs of dampness. Readers love these functional womens travel dress styles for really hot places or when embarking on a more active adventure where you’ll be working up a bit of a sweat. 

We’ve featured some of the most popular moisture-wicking dresses below, but see the full roster right here ! 

Shop: Amazon | Eddie Bauer Sizes Regular XS-XXL | Petite S-L | Tall M-XXL | Plus 2X-3X

Eddie Bauer Aster Dress

This Eddie Bauer travel dress is a longstanding TFG favorite, loved for its simple, classic design and impressive roster of functional features. The empire waist is flattering, and the fabric has a hint of stretch for a supportive fit that gives you plenty of mobility. The fabric also has odor-control and UPF 50+ sun protection, doesn’t wrinkle, and will look nice and neat throughout your trip! 

A happy wearer says, “I love these black travel dresses . They’re perfect for travel and everyday wear. You can dress them up or wear them for a casual look. They don’t wrinkle and are super comfy!” It comes in sizes XS-XXL , petite S-L , tall M-XXL , and plus 2X-3X .

Find out how to turn any one of your dresses into versatile dresses !

 Shop Sizes Regular XXS-3X  |  Tall S-XL  |  Petite XS-L : Athleta

Athleta Elation Midi Dress

With such a cute and chic design, no one would ever guess this dress was made of technical fabric and built for adventuring! While it looks and feels silky smooth, the Athleta v-neck dress is comfy, quick-drying, breathable, and has UPF 40+ sun protection. 

Whether you take it out on a boat, hike in it, wear it as a beach coverup , or go out to dinner, this dress can seriously do it all!

A happy wearer shares, “ Love that this has the same fabric and color throughout this year. A definite refresh for your favorite go-to spring/summer go-everywhere dress. ” It comes in regular XXS-3X , tall S-XL , and petite XS-L .

Shop Sizes XS-XL: prAna |  Moosejaw

PrAna Jewel Lake Dress

This PrAna travel dress will have you looking so cute and elevated yet totally ready for whatever adventures each day brings. Its flattering, a-line silhouette and bright print keep things fun and feminine, while its stretchy, moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabric coupled with roomy pockets keeps it practical for an active or warm-weathered trip. 

Readers especially love its supportive fit, with crisscross straps and an interior shelf bra with mesh lining. 

A reader says, “I think I found my perfect travel dress! It has a shelf bra with lightly lined cups. Usually, shelf bras don’t work for me, but this is a dream! I don’t have to wear a strapless bra now. AND…it has pockets!! I’m so excited about this find that I think I’m going to splurge and buy another.” It comes in a few different patterns and in sizes XS-XL .

Best Wrinkle Free Travel Dresses for Multi-Stop Trips

For a trip with multiple destinations where you’ll be packing, unpacking, and repacking your clothes, wrinkle-free fabrics will make a HUGE difference. Your cute travel dress will come out of its packing cube looking fresh, neat, and ready to be thrown right on! (Though, we always recommend hanging dresses once you arrive at your destination — even if the tag says wrinkle-resistant). 

Below are some versatile beauties, but if you’re looking for more low maintenance dresses, see these Wrinkle Free Dresses!

Shop: Eddie Bauer | Amazon Sizes Regular XS-XXL | Petite S-L | Tall M-XXL | Plus 2X-3X

Eddie Bauer Departure Easy Tank Dress

Another Eddie Bauer fave, readers love the Departure little black travel dress for its casual and flattering style and amazing versatility. This cutie is made of a stretchy fabric that’s moisture-wicking, lightweight, and has UPF 50+ sun protection, so it’s perfect for sightseeing, active excursions, or grabbing lunch. Readers say this wrinkle-free travel dress is easy to pack and will still look nice after a long trip with repeated wearing!

A wearer shares why she thinks this is the best black travel dress : “This dress is versatile, so great for a night out, a day of sightseeing, a trip to the beach, or just running errands. The fabric is light, comfortable, and packs small. When traveling, you can wash it in the sink, hang it up, and it’ll be dry by the morning! And the zippered pockets are big enough to keep your phone, keys, and wallet secure, so you can leave your purse behind.” Sizes range from XS-XXL , petite S-L , and plus 2X-3X . 

Quince Silk Blend T Shirt Dress

T-shirt dresses are awesome for travel because they can be styled up with wedges and accessories or worn as a cute sightseeing outfit with sneakers and a sunhat . These Quince comfortable travel dresses are a great pick because their wrinkle-resistant, sweat-wicking, and quick-drying properties mean you can wear them all throughout your trip and know they’ll stay fresh and neat. 

Readers love that the relaxed fit adds to the cooling, airy feel and gives them a fashion-forward look, too!

A fan of these easy travel dresses sums it up, “This is just about the perfect little dress that can transition from day to night. It travels well and fits great!” It comes in several colors and in sizes XS-XL .  

Shop Chico’s: Sizes Regular 00-22 | Petite 00-18

Chicos Travelers Classic Maxi Dress

This Chico’s Classic travel dress with sleeves has a beautiful, timeless silhouette that’ll work in any destination and for all kinds of activities! Part of their Travelers collection, this pretty piece is made from a smooth, light, and quick-drying fabric that’s super durable and won’t pill or wrinkle, and many wearers talk about how well it drapes and moves. 

So grab a floppy hat and comfy sandals for a chic daytime look, and then add flats and a wrap for evening elegance! 

It’s a great business travel dress , too! A TFGer says, “I wear lots of Chico’s, and I love their Travelers fabric!” This dress comes in sizes 00-22 and petite 00-18 . 

Quince Vintage Wash Tencel Slip Dress

Classic, feminine, and versatile slip dresses are a closet staple, especially when they’re wrinkle, shrink, and static-resistant, like the Quince’s Vintage Wash Tencel dress ! It’s long, flowy, and relaxed, with adjustable straps and a v-neck. Wearers love the cool and lightweight yet sturdy fabric that comes in two gorgeous, vintage-looking colors. 

One reader says, “I have the Quince slip dress. It is generously cut, so very flattering. I wear something over it – like a jacket or cardigan .” It comes in sizes XS-XL . 

Best Travel Dresses With Pockets for Sightseeing Excursions

For days when you only need a few small essentials or just want to keep certain things easily accessible, a travel dress with pockets is the answer! They’re amazing for holding small items like your lip balm and small amounts of cash or a room key. These dresses are cute, comfy, functional, and super trendy for summer. 

The list of pocket dresses is some of the most sought-after! And if you love them as much as we do, see more Dresses With Pockets !

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Nordstrom |  Faherty

Faherty Isha Linen Dress

The Isha linen dress is a heavenly pick for summer, made of 100% linen and designed with a relaxed fit. The buttons and pin tucks on the bodice embellish this classic dress, and the range of colors and prints are all so pretty. 

Readers love that the fit is cute and ultra-flattering, and wearers confirm how comfy and versatile it is —you can throw it over a swimsuit for the beach or dress it up for date night! 

A wearer says, “Super cute and comfortable. I am a slim athletic build, and I like that it falls straight. A great piece for traveling as it can be worn super casual with sneakers or less casual with sandals and accessories.” Available in sizes XXS-XXL . 

We’ve compiled the ultimate list of what our readers rank as the best dress for hot weather travels !

Shop Sizes Regular XXS-XXL: Nordstrom

Caslon Tie Waist Maxi Dress

Simple, clean lines and small details like a side slit and tie waist give so much style and femininity to Caslon’s black travel dress with pockets . It’s chic and flattering but has enough coverage to be a perfect choice for any trips where you need to dress a bit more modestly. The cotton-rayon fabric is light as air, deliciously soft, and comfy. 

A traveler shares, “I needed a packable dress for travel in Europe and found this one to be perfect. This one is simple, comfortable, and functional and can be dressed up or down!” Sizes range from XXS-XXL .

Shop Nordstrom: Sizes Regular XS-XL | Plus 0X-3X

Karen Kane Quinn Shift Dress

This plus size travel dress from Karen Kane is made from stretch-jersey rayon that looks sleek and polished but is super comfy to wear trekking around on a hot day. The slightly fitted bodice flows out into an a-line shape, which wearers say is super flattering and fun to wear. Its streamlined design keeps it ultra-versatile, which is always a plus when traveling! 

A wearer shares, “Great little dress that I can travel with and dress up or down. Love the v-neck and pockets!” Available in sizes XS-XL and plus sizes 0X-3X . 

Best Casual Travel Dresses for Beach Getaways

For a beach vacay, a light summer travel dress with the versatility to go from beachy to casual-chic is the way to go! Choose something functional that works as a swimsuit coverup when hanging out on the sand, but that also doubles as a cute option for dinner and drinks! These great travel dresses are perfect for relaxing at a beach resort, too.

Get inspired for your next beach trip with our round-up below, or search further for more Summer Beach Dresses !

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Nordstrom

Elan Bell Sleeve Coverup Dress

With a loose fit and a linen-cotton blend, these cute travel dresses from Elan are so ready to hit the beach! This dress hits above the knees and has a stylishly modest v-neck, while the metallic sheen and flutter sleeves give it a feminine touch. Wearers love this cutie for its summery look that’s both high quality and cooling! 

One says, “Great summer dress. I love Elan dresses and have a couple. The dress hits me above the knee in a flattering length. I also like the neckline and the fabric. Love it!” It comes in sizes XS-XL . Check out all of Elan’s summer dresses and coverups .

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Gap

Gap Linen Blend Midi Dress 

Wearers say it doesn’t get more soft and cozy than this lovely casual travel dress from the Gap . Made from a lightweight linen blend, it sits close to the feminine shape and flows out into an elegant mid-length skirt. Readers say it’s ideal for lounging or sightseeing in a seaside town, and all you need are some comfy tan sandals to go with it!

One wearer says, “This simple and soft midi is perfect. You can wear it with sandals or tennis shoes and dress it up or down as it’s versatile. Great summer staple!” It comes in a range of pretty colors and in sizes XXS-XXL . 

Shop J.Crew: Sizes Regular XXS-3X | Petite XXS-L | Tall XS-XL

J.Crew Tall Bungalow Linen Popover Dress

Quick-drying, lightweight, and easygoing, J.Crew’s linen popover dress could totally be used as a beach coverup, but is such a chic and classy piece for dressy occasions, too! Its sheath silhouette is slightly boxy yet really flattering, and the shorter length makes it perfect for a beachy destination. 

Readers boast about how the quality is fantastic, and the linen allows your skin to breathe and feel nice and cool throughout the day. 

A happy user shares, “The color is beautiful, and the quality is great. I love it so much that I’m going to get the other colors!” It comes in sizes XXS-3X , petite XXS-L , and tall XS-XL .  

Shop Sizes XXS-XL: Tommy Bahama

Tommy Bahama Two Palms Linen Shirtdress

Light and beachy linen is polished up with front buttons, a collar, and an adjustable tie-belt with the Tommy Bahama’s Two Palms shirtdress . This pretty dress keeps it airy with side vents, a flowy fit, and a sleeveless design, while the midi length adds both style and extra coverage. You can keep it loose and buttoned down by the water, or cinch it up and add some white sneakers for sightseeing in town! 

A wearer shares more, “Beautiful dress! The linen is lightweight but still substantial (not too thin). It comes with a tie belt, but I think it looks great without it. Great alone or with a scarf , wrap , or statement jewelry.” Sizes range from XXS-XL .  

Best Lightweight Travel Dresses for Summer City Breaks

Summer in the city means dresses that’ll keep you both looking and feeling fresh, confident, and cool. Opt for chic, classic silhouettes, solid colors (neutral or bold!), and pieces that look just as nice with sneakers as they do with wedges . Bonus if they can go from day to night with an easy transition! 

Below is a versatile list of dresses for any city in the summer. Other popular classics for urban breaks are the LBD and LWD, respectively, the Best Black Dresses and the Best White Dresses for travel!

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Spanx

Spanx Carefree Crepe Reversible Slip Dress

The gorgeous silky fabric gives this Spanx slip dress a trendy and summery vibe. Its very flattering and reversible, so you can create different looks. It’s also super comfortable throughout your long days of exploring. Elegant and simple, you’ll be able to wear it repeatedly for all kinds of occasions!  

It comes in sizes XS-3X and two other colors that are also reversible. 

We have rounded up our favorite convertible travel dresses that will help you pack light and stylishly!

Quince Washable Stretch Silk Maxi Dress

While this Quince maxi travel dress looks elegant and polished, its flowy silhouette, smocked waistband, and stretchy, low-maintenance fabric make it quite a comfy and practical option for a long day of walking around and seeing the sights. 

The washable silk fabric is nourishing to the skin, hypoallergenic, and naturally thermoregulating, so it’ll help keep you cool, too! It also has handy side pockets for your small must-haves. 

A wearer says, “It is so light and airy and will be perfect for carry-on travel during the hot summer!” Sizes range from XS-XL . 

Shop on Nordstrom:  Regular Sizes XXS-XL | Plus Sizes 1X-3X

Eileen Fisher Organic Linen Shirtdress

This Eileen Fisher short sleeve travel dress is effortlessly chic and makes the perfect addition to a capsule wardrobe for a stylish city like New York or Paris . The organic linen and loose fit will keep things ultra-comfy, while the buttons and luxe look of the linen keeps it looking elevated. Wearers describe it as a summer must-have and love its rich and vibrant color options.  

A happy reviewer says, ”Love the color. The linen fabric is easy and breezy. Fits perfectly and will be great for the hot summer months.” These standard and plus size travel dresses are available in sizes XXS-XL and 1X-3X . 

Shop Sizes S-XL: Amazon

Merokeety Flutter Midi Dress

This Merokeety midi dress is casual and feminine, with adorable details like ruffle cap sleeves, a smocked bodice, an a-line silhouette, and a tiered, flowy skirt. Wearers rave about the comfort, from the stretchy fit up top to the airy, breathable fabric throughout, and share that it’s definitely hot-weather friendly. Whether dressing up for a special occasion or just spending the day exploring the city on foot, this dress is a super cute go-to for whatever’s in store! 

A wearer gives a rave review, “So flattering and versatile! The chest area is really stretchy and would be good for all chest sizes. The fabric feels nice and high quality and is light enough for summer. It’s not see-through at all. I feel so confident in it! And – it has pockets!” It comes in sizes S-XL . 

Shop Sizes XXS-XL: Nordstrom

Nordstrom Stretch Cotton Midi T-Shirt Dress

With a laid-back look of an oversized t-shirt and a midi length, this dress from Nordstrom is a super cute and modern take on the t-shirt dress. This versatile piece is made of soft and breathable cotton with a hint of stretch for extra comfort, and the versatile design is topped off with side pockets. Lean into the casual feel by adding sneakers, or contrast it with strappy sandals and some delicate accessories! 

One wearer gushes, “This is a super t-shirt dress . The cotton material is light, and it doesn’t wrinkle. Perfect for travel!” Available in sizes XXS-XL . 

Travel Dress Styles Comparison Chart

[wpsm_comparison_table id=”493″ class=”center-table-align”]

Thigh Society The Cooling Shorts  | Sizes XS-6X

Best Shorts to Wear Under Dresses

If your looking for a shorts to wear under your dresses Thigh Society is a reader favorite! The Cooling anti-chafe shorts from ThighSociety  are raved about by TFGers for so many reasons, especially their silky, hi-tech performance fabric. These shorts pull heat and moisture away from the body, keeping things cool, fresh, and chafe-free on even the hottest of days.

They’re tagless, don’t roll or bunch, and are ultra-thin and lightweight yet stretchy and durable as can be. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors and lengths and range in sizes from  XS-6X !

What do you think are the best womens travel dresses ? Share your thoughts and comment below!

For more cute summer dresses for travel, please read:

• Best Vacation Maxi Dresses for Summer
• What’s the Best Midi Dress for Summer? Styles to Pack Now
• Stylish Linen Summer Dresses to Keep You Cool
• Cute Summer Dresses for Women Who Travel

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14 comments.

I’m so glad to see all these options in one place! Off to check them out 😀

Hi! I love the dress on the cover, any tips or where I can find it?

Hi Lourdes, I am afraid that the image at the top of the article is a stock image so we are not sure of the brand. ?

Hi, so pretty =-( Thank you anyway!

Hi Alex, I love the dress styles you show – they are all so cute.

But I just about only wear dresses to weddings and never wear them when I go out at home. So I doubt I’ll wear them if I pack them for our upcoming spring trip to Italy. I don’t want to add extra weight with dresses that will stay in my suitcase. How do I substitute dresses for tops and bottoms in your packing lists? Would I add a top for every dress and a bottom for every two dresses I omit? Do you have a formula? Thanks so much, Patti

Hi Patti, thank you for reaching out! Your aim should always be to dress for your personal comfort level vs trying to blend in. Depending on your preferences you can choose more bottoms, less dresses, more tops – you have the ability to adjust the combination based on your needs. It’s always best to pack more tops than bottoms because a top will create more of an impact to your outfit.

For our essentials 10 piece capsule wardrobe combination, you could pack – 7 Tops + 3 Bottoms instead of the 4 Tops + 4 Bottoms + 2 Dresses featured in the capsule.

Our Classic 12 piece capsule wardrobe combination, you could pack – 8 Tops + 4 Bottoms instead of the 5 Tops + 5 Bottoms + 2 Dresses featured in the capsule.

You can find our signature capsule wardrobes here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/functional-and-fashion-packing-list/ If you need any more tips to help you with packing for Italy, we also have this helpful guide: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-italy/

Wear what makes you happy, what you feel good in, and what’s comfortable for you! ❤️ Have an amazing trip to Italy!

Thanks so much Alex! Really appreciate your suggestions.

Hi Patti, so pleased I was able to help. Have an amazing time on your travels!!! ?

Hi there, I’m plannng a trip to southern Italy in May – any chance you can update this article? Many of the links say the item is no longer available as it’s now over 3 years old. I find your articles so helpful just hoping for more updates! Thank you so much for all the research, it’s such a help!

Hi Linda, thank you for making me aware of this, I will look in to getting this update. So pleased you find the blog helpful, thank you for your lovely comment! Have an awesome time during your trip to Italy next year. 🙂

Nice Collection. Thanks for sharing such a nice post. Because all girls are confused to choose dresses for outdoors. But this topic will help to all girls and these type of dresses give a stylish and trendy look. Love all dresses.

Hi Kattie, thank you for your feedback, glad you found the article helpful! 🙂

LOVE them all!! Do you have the links or remember where you bought them? Thanks..

Hi Stephanie! You can click on the images and they will link you to each dress 🙂

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We only recommend products we love and that we think you will, too. We may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was written by our Commerce team.

I always include a dress or two when I’m packing for a trip (or wear one en route), but it’s not like I can just grab any old dress from my closet — it has to be one that’s perfect for traveling. Packable and versatile, the best travel dresses are the ultimate multitaskers — able to be worn multiple ways, day or night — and they’re made of materials that stay wrinkle-free even after being folded or rolled in a suitcase, or after hours of wear on a long travel day. If you’re hunting for the best travel dresses , read on for what to look for when you shop.

What To Consider When Shopping For The Best Travel Dresses

The best travel dresses pack easily and spring from your suitcase in as wrinkle-free a state as possible, or remain polished-looking even after wearing it while you travel. Such sartorial magic tricks hinge on material. Fabrics like nylon, Tencel Lyocell, rayon , and polyester tend to be quite wrinkle-resistant . And while it’s best to stay away from fabrics that wrinkle easily (like cotton, linen, and silk or satin), if they’re blended with the aforementioned fabrics, they can still make for good travel options. Just keep an eye on the percentage — the more cotton or linen the blend contains, the more likely it will be to wrinkle. And while cotton does tend to wrinkle easily, it’s also breathable, comfortable, and lightweight (read: easy to pack), so depending on your destination, bringing along a cotton dress can still make sense.

Versatility

Look for a dress that can be worn at least a couple of different ways. Most of the dresses ahead boast simple designs and silhouettes, making them the perfect blank canvas for shoes, jewelry, and any sweaters, scarves, or jackets you’re bringing along with you.

Take a simple T-shirt dress , for example: Paired with sneakers, it’s the perfect daytime adventure outfit; but come evening, it can look sophisticated paired with strappy sandals . After all, travel requires flexibility, and your travel wardrobe does, too.

You’ll also need to consider where you’ll be going, and what you’ll be doing when you get there. Maybe you’re traveling for work, in which case opt for a classic midi dress that can attend conferences with a crisp blazer, but will also look cute worn with sneakers to do some sight-seeing during your free time. If you’re traveling for a special event, like a wedding, look for a dress in a wrinkle-resistant blend that embodies the spirit of the event for which you’re traveling — think a pretty lace sleeve to elevate a simple wrap dress, or a party-ready side slit. If outdoor activities are on the agenda, there are cute workout dresses that can double as regular dresses with a simple shoe swap.

Lucky you, headed out for a trip! Before you haul out that suitcase and start packing, scroll on to shop the 15 best travel dresses on Amazon right now.

01 The Effortless T-Shirt Dress That Belongs In Every Suitcase

Every suitcase needs an effortless, goes-with-everything option, and this maxi dress by Amazon Essentials makes a strong case for itself: The maxi length can be dressed up or down, the short sleeves and scoop neck are perfect for layering (and accessorizing, if you’re heading out for the night), and it’s made of your choice of 95% rayon or sustainably sourced rayon and 5% elastane, so no need to worry about wrinkles. And if all that hasn’t earned this chic dress a place in your closet yet, it comes in 16 colors and patterns, so you can find one that’s perfect for you.

Enthusiastic review: “I was looking for a lightweight summer dress that wouldn't wrinkle when traveling. This came in the perfect size for me and length was good. I can put it in a suitcase and it looks good the minute it's unpacked. I bought it in black and is so easy to dress up or go as is. I love it and thinking about getting another one in a different color.”

• Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
• Available colors: 16

02 A Flowy, Tiered Maxi Dress That Can Go Casual Or Cocktail

Made of wrinkle-resistant Tencel Lyocell, this tiered maxi dress by The Drop will save space in your suitcase and emerge ready for whatever your itinerary has in store, from casual lunches to upscale cocktails. Tank sleeves and a scoop neck are complemented by a flowing, tiered skirt for the perfect balance of elegance and comfort. If the vibe is casual, pair with sandals or sneakers for an easy day look, or with strappy heels for an evening out. And it’s so layer-able, too; if it gets chilly while on vacay, top it off with a leather jacket, or layer it over a turtleneck. Plus, it has pockets.

Enthusiastic review: “This dress was perfect for my trip to Arizona. It flows and keeps you cool, while also not being thin and cheap material. The dress is worth the price. I can tell this piece will last me years. The stitching it immaculate and I wasn’t worried about staining or ripping it either. I appreciate when fashion and quality meet. The only thing is that it ran a little big, but the straps have buttons that I could have crossed to shorten them up (realized later)...Highly recommend to anyone looking for a versatile dress that will keep you cool and last a long time.”

• Available sizes: XX-Small — 5X
• Available colors: 12

03 A Super-Soft Hoodie Dress That’s So Cozy For Plane Rides

If you’re looking for a comfy dress to wear on the plane, this hoodie midi dress is hard to beat — and it’s also the perfect lounge-day attire once on the ground. Featuring a super-soft and wrinkle-resistant blend of 52% viscose, 28% polyester, and 20% nylon (the thermal knit weave is especially cozy), this dress features a drawstring hoodie, side slits, and a below-the knee length that will look oh-so cute with sneakers or boots.

Enthusiastic review: “The dress fits perfect is very comfy and warm for traveling. It is the dress that I wear when I travel on planes.It is also very cute.”

• Available colors: 7

04 This Essential Slip Dress That’s Shockingly Inexpensive

This slip dress is a total packing no-brainer. For one, it’s made of 95% polyester blended with 5% spandex, so it’ll resist wrinkles and have the comfiest movement and stretch. The knee length and swingy fit are casual enough to be paired with sneakers or sandals for daytime, while the spaghetti straps make it an easy evening option, as well; simply add heels and statement jewelry, and you’re ready for cocktails. You can’t go wrong with black, but you have 34 more fun colors and patterns to choose from, too — but at such a reasonable price, why not grab a few?

Enthusiastic review: “I love these dresses. It isn't easy to find dresses that fit, can fulfill multiple purposes, and travel well. This dress does it all and comes in a wide range of colors and designs.”

• Available sizes: X-Large — 5X-Large
• Available colors: 35

05 This Timeless & Packable Wrap Dress With Over 14,000 Stellar Ratings

A timeless wrap dress is a welcome addition to any suitcase, and this wrap dress with over 14,000 perfect ratings on Amazon is such a cute (and popular) option. It features short sleeves and a ruffled hem, in a longer length that will pair well with either sneakers or sandals if your plans are casual, or with heels if you’re headed out for the evening. And it’s made from 100% rayon, so you can forget about wrinkles and focus on fun.

Enthusiastic review: “True wrap dress so can be adjusted in waist. Length was perfect with flats. Great travel dress. Effortless but beautiful.”

• Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
• Available colors: 29

06 A Long-Sleeve, Maxi-Length T-Shirt Dress For Cooler Weather

For travel during chilly months, be sure to pack this jersey maxi dress by Daily Ritual. It’s made of 95% viscose blended with 5% elastane for the perfect amount of stretch, with long sleeves, a scoop neck, and side slits. The simple silhouette makes this an excellent layering piece, too. How cute would it look with a belted puffer jacket and chunky boots?

Enthusiastic review: “I ordered the navy color and it is PERFECT for a casual look. Throw on a jean jacket and [...] slip ons or classic tie up and you're good to go for the weekend or travel day. You can probably wear it during the fall/winter too, just layer underneath with leggings or thick tights for warmth and throw on some boots! The fabric falls perfectly.”

07 A Pretty Lace-Accented Dress You Can Pack For Special Occasions

Let this gorgeous maxi dress take some of the pressure out of your next special event. The floral lace long sleeves are the perfect dramatic accompaniment to this sheath’s elegant faux-wrap silhouette, and the floor-sweeping length strikes a festive mood — hence why many Amazon reviewers pack this for destination weddings. Take your pick from six wearable colors, like deep wine red (pictured), black, and navy.

Enthusiastic review: “Fabric doesn’t get wrinkled when you travel. Wore this to [an] evening wedding. Very comfortable!”

• Available sizes: X-Small — 3X
• Available colors: 6

08 This Streamlined Midi Dress You Can Dress Up Or Down

If you’re going to pack just one dress, make it this bodycon dress ; you can dress it up or down so easily. With its wide tank sleeves, below-the-knee length, and gorgeous, body-skimming fit, this simple dress can go to cocktails (pair with heels and a jeweled choker) or out for daytime fun (pop on a pair of sneakers or sandals). It’s made from wrinkle-resistant 95% rayon with 5% spandex, so all you’ll have to worry about is whether it’s okay to wear it more than one day in a row (it totally is).

Enthusiastic review: “This dress is the perfect dress to have in your collection. It's very comfortable and light weight. Since purchasing this dress I've worn it every week. This dress is a must have for my busy lifestyle.”

• Available sizes: 14-16 Plus — 26-28 Plus
• Available colors: 3

09 This Exercise Dress You Can Wear For So Many Activities

Whether or not you’re planning to exercise when you reach your destination, consider bringing this workout mini dress along with you — it’s surprisingly versatile. Featuring a mid-thigh length, adjustable spaghetti straps, and built-in shorts and bra with removable padding, this is a one-and-done dress that’s built for exercise (it’s made from 83% nylon and 17% spandex, so you’ll get plenty of movement and stretch). But it can do so much more than that — since the silhouette is so classic, you can easily pair it with heels or sandals and you can hit the town for sight-seeing or drinks.

Enthusiastic review: “Super cute and comfortable. Great dress to travel with as well. AND IT HAS POCKETS.”

• Available colors: 9

10 This Floral Wrap-Inspired Dress With Fluttery Sleeves

Cute with either heels or sneakers, this A-line, wrap-inspired dress will easily work its way into your suitcase. Featuring the prettiest fluttery sleeves, it’s made of a wrinkle-resistant 95% polyester mixed with spandex for stretch and movement. If your travel plans are professional rather than personal, the sophisticated silhouette could totally work for work — just add loafers and a polished jacket. It comes in a great selection of floral prints, plus graphic stripes and a fun animal print.

Enthusiastic review: “I love this breezy, fun little dress! This dress fits perfectly. I ordered my usual size and had no issues. It's my go-to summer dress. I wear those bicycle shorts under just in case the wind kicks up, but overall it's short without being too short... It's the perfect length, the perfect fit [...] I am very happy with this. Don't think twice, just give it a try!”

• Available colors: 19

11 A Splurge-Worthy Jersey Dress That’s Comfortable & Sophisticated

There are so many ways and places you’ll wear this mock neck dress , it’ll easily justify the price, and earn a place in your regular wardrobe rotation as well as your suitcase. It features a mock neck, dramatic side slit, short sleeves, and snug, bodycon fit that’s perfect for layering, and the ribbed jersey material (made from 92% viscose and 8% spandex) resists wrinkling in your suitcase. Whether you pair this dress with heels for an evening out, or with sneakers or sandals for daytime adventures, you’re guaranteed to look next-level chic — and stay comfortable in the process.

• Available sizes: X-Small—X-Large
• Available colors: 1

12 This Relaxed Yet Elegant Maxi Dress That’s Perfect For Beach Vacations

Beach vacations (or even beach weddings) call for something elegant and relaxed, and this maxi dress more than fits the bill, with its gorgeous flowing skirt and sweet smocked waist. The viscose material will resist wrinkles (nothing worse than trying to track down a steamer on vacation), and delicate details like elasticized gathering at the neck and sleeves, decorative buttons, and an adorable bow add event-worthy sophistication.

Enthusiastic review: “The dress arrived faster than expected and it is beautiful! [...] Colors are so vibrant! It is well made, the fabric is soft, cooling, lightweight yet not see-[through]! Also has a nice slight sheen to it. Perfect for travel/packing and versatile day/night! Just ordered anothet one in yellow, and will order a blue but can’t decide which one, hav to look a bit more! LOVE IT! (and love the price too).”

• Available colors: 45

13 A Classic Midi Dress That’s Both Comfortable & Elegant

Perfect for work events or upscale dinners, this midi dress is made from stretchy 100% polyester, with floaty short sleeves (or long sleeves, if you prefer) and a gorgeous surplice neckline, so there’s no need to choose between comfort and elegance. Waist ties let you adjust for fit, and a hidden button at the neckline allows you to control your cleavage levels according to your preference. The knee-length hem allows you to show off those heels you packed.

Enthusiastic review: “I love this dress! Recently wore it to a wedding and got several compliments. [...] This dress is the perfect length, just below the knee [...] I am also planning to pack it for vacation as the material will definitely travel well. I will definitely be ordering another in a different color!”

• Available sizes: 14 Plus — 26 Plus
• Available colors: 30

14 This Easy Tank Dress That’s Great For Layering

Saving space is key when packing, and this lightweight tank dress by Daily Ritual is so easy to fold or roll. It’s made from 95% rayon blended with 5% spandex, so it’ll resist wrinkles and have plenty of softness and stretch, while the racerback lends a sporty-chic vibe. Plus, it layers up so well. If the weather turns chilly, wear the classic A-line silhouette with a long-sleeved T-shirt underneath and top it off with a sweater.

Enthusiastic review: “Super soft flowy material with a stretchy cotton feel. It is light and airy. Perfect for hot humid weather. It looks great and is so comfortable.”

• Available colors: 10

15 This Comfy & Versatile Maxi Dress In An Eye-Catching Color

Travel days can be stressful, but this maxi dress by The Drop is pure ease. Made of breathable and cool 100% cotton poplin, this dress features a high scoop neck, a generous fit, side slit pockets, and a chic, dropped tiered skirt — and even though that cotton material might wrinkle, it’ll disappear amid the ruched detailing. This chartreuse shade is a delightful surprise, though it comes in four more colors, too, including a few neutrals. Pair this with sneakers for the airplane, platform sandals for dinner, or flip flops on your way to the hotel pool.

Enthusiastic review: “This dress is wonderful! It looks expensive and chic. It can be dressed up or down, and looks great either way. It’s made of a quality material and has a lining inside the top section also. It lays well and the long ruffle on the bottom is simple but shows very wonderfully. It’s just a total win. [...] Felt very comfortable as well. All in all, I can’t tell you how much I love this dress!”

• Available colors: 5

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Her Packing List

Packing Light

Top travel dresses for every trip + how to pack them right.

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There’s nothing like a simple dress to give you effortless travel style . Travel dresses are comfortable, especially in the summer heat, and provide versatility for layering and making multiple outfits.

Plus, sometimes us female travelers want to look sexy, feminine and flirty!

The best dresses for travel are multipurpose , should dress up and down easily, and hopefully consist of special fabrics that wrinkle less, smell less, and wear out less. With the right accessories, dresses on our packing list work in many climates and for many travel activities.

Here are our picks for the best travel dresses .

Best Basic Dresses for Travelers

Wool& sierra tank dress.

This sleeveless, A-line silhouette dress is the perfect transitional piece. The wool& Sierra Tank Dress has patch pockets (pockets!!!) and a crew neckline to give it an elevated look that can work for any destination from the beach to the city. 

Not only is wool&’s signature Merino wool odor-resistant, breathable, and temperature-regulating, but it also stays wrinkle-free which means you can wear it all day and look amazing. It’s also quick drying, so even if it does need a wash, you can easily wash it in your hotel’s hand basin and it will be ready to wear the next day!

At HPL we are huge fans of wool& and our readers feel the same way. This particular dress was recommended to us by an HPL reader who loves it because it is so versatile (she even knows people who have worn it on the Camino Trail ). Another wool& dress she recommends is the Chloe Dress which she is using to do the 30 Day Challenge where you wear the same wool& dress for 30 days straight.

• BUY: Wool& Sierra Tank Dress

SCOTTeVEST Daisy Dress

This unassuming design is not only stylish and comfortable, but it is also super functional. The SCOTTeVEST Daisy Dress has no less than eight (yes eight!) strategically placed pockets that you can actually use. Some of them are hidden (great theft-proof clothing options ) and some of them are zippered which is perfect for keeping all your essentials safe if you want to go handbag free .

The bamboo mix fabric is soft and breathable, designed to help regulate your body temperature, keeping you cool and comfortable during your travel days. It’s also wrinkle and odor-resistant making it perfect for multiple wears on your trip.

• BUY: SCOTTeVEST Daisy Dress

Toad&Co Marley Tiered Short Sleeve Dress

At first glance, the Marley Tiered Short Sleeve Dress by Toad&Co looks like a simple T-shirt dress, but in reality, it’s so much more. First off, the simple design is perfect for a casual look and travel days (how about being part of a plane outfit ), and then it shows a bit of playfulness with the swing silhouette.

In addition, the breathable, travel-friendly fabric makes it quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and odor-controlling. Oh, and did we mention that this dress has hidden pockets? Holla. If there’s anything that makes a girl happy, it would be a travel dress with pockets … am I right?

• BUY: Marley Tiered Short Sleeve Dress

Smitten Merino Tilly Dress

If you are looking for something super comfortable that can take you straight from long travel days to sightseeing then this is the perfect dress for you! The Smitten Merino Tilly Dress is an A-line Merino wool dress with a square shape and oversized fit. Wear it loose and flowy or add a belt at the waist.

Made in Australia, this dress is the perfect dress for summer and was recommended to us by an HPL reader who loves it because it travels brilliantly – it’s lightweight, wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying, machine-washable, and takes up little room. Plus, she received outstanding customer service from Smitten Merino.

Other Smitten Merino dresses this reader recommends are the Tiffany Dress and the Ellie Dress (she loved this one so much she bought two of them!).

• BUY: Smitten Merino TIlly Dress

Travel Maxi Dress

The simple maxi dress offers the traveler an extremely versatile wardrobe option. Given the length, this dress provides coverage for more conservative trips (with an extra wrap on top) while also staying flowy and light for warm, beachy adventures. 

Best of all, it’s casual, but also has the capability of being sleek and classy while at the same time being one of the most comfortable travel dresses.

Mariah mentioned that a black maxi dress is her one little thing she can’t travel without for the following reasons:

“It’s comfortable, and black goes with everything! The length is perfect for visiting more conservative countries as well as entering cathedrals. As an added bonus I don’t have to worry about shaving my legs! It’s also my favorite outfit to wear for those long days of traveling spent on buses or planes. I’ve slept overnight in airports wearing my maxi dress and it’s almost like having a built-in blanket keeping me warm.“

She goes on:

“The best thing about my maxi dress is not having to worry if it’s going to fit. With a few colored cardigans and cute jewelry, the options for outfits are numerous and I can tailor it to my activities. I’ve worn my maxi dress on the beach and out to dinner and it’s perfect for both occasions.”

• BUY: Look for maxi dresses on Amazon , at Target , or even at your REI and travel clothing shops.

The LBD – Little Black (Travel) Dress

A little black travel dress is a staple in your home wardrobe, so why not in your travel wardrobe? The perfect LBD can be worn in almost every travel situation (that’s not super active) and dressed up for more special occasions. Your LBD can even be a black maxi dress!

Andi Perullo mentioned that a little black dress is her one little thing she can’t travel without:

“An LBD can take me trekking in tropical rainforests to painting the town red at night. It is comfortable and at the same time chic! Black is slimming, it goes with everything in your wardrobe, and it photographs really well. It takes up next to no space. Plus, since it can be worn during the day and at night, you can eliminate other items of clothing.”

Now the optimal little black dress will contain some extra travel-specific features (quick-drying material, for example — see the best dress for business travelers below), but even my simple $25 find from H&M worked wonders on a cruise. It’s no wonder the LBD is one of so many travelers’ top picks.

Eddie Bauer Easy Tank Dress

The Eddie Bauer Easy Tank Dress is the ultimate traveler. The relaxed fit of this dress makes it perfect for travel days but it is also a very flattering style making it perfect for a day spent exploring or a night out when you want to look your best.

This tank dress combines four-way stretch mobility fabric making it comfy and easy to wear. It also uses moisture-wicking technology and built-in sun protection to make this dress a smart choice for warm weather destinations or crowded public transport. 

It is also quick drying which is a huge plus because you’ll definitely want to wear this one multiple times on your trip.

• BUY: Eddie Bauer Easy Tank Dress

Convertible Travel Dress Picks

Season the pepper dress.

The Pepper Dress is sure to spruce up your travel wardrobe . This 100% silk, low-waste, and eco-friendly garment can be worn in over ten different ways!

This lightweight layering piece is perfect for all climates and can be worn at a variety of different lengths. This one piece can take you from day to night and can be dressed up or down to suit your needs.

In addition to being versatile, the lightweight silk fabric is odor-resistant and perfect for throwing into a backpack and toted off to the next adventure.

• BUY: Season The Pepper Dress

Encircled Chrysalis Cardi

It may not have dress in the name, but let me assure you that the Chrysalis Cardi transforms into one glorious dress (or should I say dresses). At its core, this soft modal, wearable garment serves as an infinity scarf but it can transform into eight completely different styling options from a strapless dress for hot, sunny days to a modest cover-up for visiting temples.

With a couple of strategically placed snaps, the scarf transforms into a cardigan, and further into a gorgeous dress.

Caroline documented her love of the Chrysalis Cardi early on, and I also have enjoyed having this convertible travel dress on my packing list . Caroline says:

“As with all multi-wear products, you may like one look over others and for me, the scarf and dress looks suit me best. I love the Grecian inspired dress for nights out as well as bundling up in the scarf to keep warm in winter . It’s also easy to accessorize and comes in a handful of colors.”

• BUY: Encircled Chrysalis Cardi

Encircled Sleeveless Revolve Dress

By the same company as the Chrysalis Cardi, the Revolve Dress offers up versatility in a much simpler design. In the original post, we linked to the Revolve dress with sleeves, which is no longer available. However, the sleeveless version is just as versatile and great for warmer days (or layered up for colder ones).

This convertible travel dress works as a tunic dress or as a top, plus it can be flipped backward for a different neckline. It can be worn in six different ways, giving you six different outfit options in one, and is made of the same soft modal as the Chrysalis Cardi. The Revolve dress design was updated in April 2023.

Caroline reviewed the original Revolve dress saying:

“I can imagine packing this item for my next cold weather trip . Not only is it extremely comfortable and lightweight, it can be worn so many ways and add layers. It would make for an ideal plane outfit .

“. . .I found this garment to be much easier to wear in the different styles than the Chrysalis Cardi, which took a bit of learning and YouTube watching on my end. This dress is fairly straightforward and requires little instruction. You just put on and go!”

• BUY: Encircled Sleeveless Revolve Dress

Ever by X Dress

Ever by X makes only one dress, that’s how versatile it is! It can be worn in eight unique ways all year round. They refer to it as a “multi-wear essential taking you from chic day to elegant event.” We like the sound of that!

Made ethically and sustainably in Sydney, this dress comes in a wide range of colors and is machine washable, quick-drying, and wrinkle-resistant. Plus, it packs small.

This dress is a recommendation from an HPL reader who raved about the amazing customer service she received from the brand and loved the dress so much that she bought it in two different colors. As a bonus, she always receives compliments when wearing them.

• BUY: Ever by X Dress

Infinity Wrap Dress

It was one of the first articles I put on Her Packing List, and over 10 years later, it’s still a viable convertible travel dress option. While it might not be the style of skirt/dress you prefer, the infinity wrap dress is very suitable for beachy and tropical getaways.

Plus the multiple patterns, and the layers themselves, make this skirt/dress literally have 100 ways to wear. It works over bathing suits, it works while sightseeing, and it definitely works while getting dolled up for date night.

• BUY: Sari Infinity Wrap Dress

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Reversible Dresses for Travel

Helene clarkson 4-way reversible dress.

You get four dresses in one with Helene Clarkson’s Reversible Travel Dress. This dress has two patterns, a charming floral print or a serene sky hue, and two different neck options, a flattering V-neck or a classic boat neck. 

The drawstring waist makes this dress incredibly easy to wear and not only looks great but can be worn for all occasions, from casual outings to special events. As a bonus, this soft and stretchy material is also wrinkle-resistant.

• BUY: Helene Clarkson 4-Way Reversible Dress

Diane Kroe Reversible Resort Dress

Not only is this dress reversible, which means an instant two-in-one look, but it can be worn both as a skirt and as a dress which means even more outfit options to keep your travel wardrobe looking fresh and fun. 

In fact, the Diane Kroe Reversible Resort Dress can be worn in 22 different ways!

This lightweight dress is made from Diane Kroe’s Venezia travel fabric which is a high-quality poly/spandex blend. This is very similar to your yoga, workout, and swimwear, only with a lightweight, silky-soft finish. It is quick to dry, wrinkle-free, and durable.

• BUY: Diane Kroe Reversible Resort Dress

Wool& Summer Midi Dress

This semi-fitted, sleeveless merino wool dress can be worn either as a crew neck or as a v-neck. Both of which look effortless. For even more styling options, this dress comes with a fabric belt for either a fitted or loose look.

This simple silhouette hits just below the knee for an easy, everyday style.

The wool& Summer Midi Dress was recommended to us by an HPL reader who loved that she could style many looks with one dress.

• BUY: Wool& Summer Midi Dress

Tribal Reversible A-Line Dress

Double the options in your wardrobe with this versatile piece! This bonded knit dress is solid black on the one side which is perfect for days spent exploring and travel days or it can be easily dressed up for a night out. On the other side, it transforms into a stunning tropical print, perfect for a beach destination.

The Tribal Reversible A-Line Dress is made from a rayon/spandex blend, is sleeveless (perfect for hot island getaways), and has pockets! Does it get better than that?

• BUY: Reversible A-Line Dress

Encircled The Everyday Sleeveless Dress

The A-line, mid-length Everyday Sleeveless Dress from Encircled is super versatile thanks to the reversible neckline (meaning two neckline options in one). It also comes with a removable belt giving you even more stylish options. Cinch the dress in at the waist or leave it loose and flowing depending on the occasion. And to make this dress even better, it has pockets! 

This dress is made from an ultra-soft, sustainable bamboo blend fabric that is breathable, and perfect for a warm destination. It also comes in three color options, raspberry, heathered navy blue (pictured), and black.

• BUY: The Everyday Sleeveless Dress

Best Dresses for Business Travelers

Wool& ellie midi wrap dress.

This elevated midi dress hits just below the knee for a flattering fit. The ¾ length sleeve is not only perfect for a work environment but a great option if you need to look professional in a warmer destination.

Made of the same signature fabric as their Sierra Tank Dress, the Ellie Midi Wrap Dress from wool& is a business traveler’s dream come true. Wrinkle-resistant, and oh-so-lightweight, this travel dress delivers comfort and classy style that can easily be packed in a suitcase without any drama whatsoever.

Plus, it’s quick-drying , meaning a quick rinse in your hotel sink is all it takes to be fresh again by morning!

• BUY: Wool& Ellie Midi Wrap Dress

Eddie Bauer Empire Waist Dress

Although the Eddie Bauer Empire Waist dress is sleeveless, the addition of a cardigan or packable blazer will instantly make it a hit with business travelers. The fitted bodice also gives it a more professional look.

Many women struggle with packing light for business trips as there is often the need to pack bulky pieces and dress shoes, all while including casual clothes for outside of work hours. With this dress, you can literally go from work to play, with just the addition of a cardigan. You could even add the Encircled Chrysalis Cardi on top to really make the most out of a single purchase.

To make it even better, this polyester/spandex blend material features moisture-wicking, sun-protection, and odor-control technologies making it ideal as a travel dress.

• BUY: Eddie Bauer Empire Waist Dress

SCOTTeVEST Daphne Dress

This faux wrap dress is the perfect addition to you next business trip. Like the SCOTTeVEST Daisy Dress, it is packed with strategically placed pockets. The SCOTTeVEST Daphne Dress has one top drop pocket, two side seam pockets with zips, and one sleeve pocket with a zip perfect for safely stashing your valuables and ideal for women who need their hands free.

On top of all those pockets, the stretchy fabric is both flattering and comfortable. AND it is wrinkle-resistant.

• BUY: SCOTTeVEST Daphne Dress

The Best Materials for Travel Dresses

Merino wool.

Merino wool is one of the best fabrics for travelers. Wool has got a bad rap, with many people thinking that it is high-maintenance when really this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Merino wool regulates your temperature like no other material. Not only does it keep you warm in cold climates, but it keeps you cool in warm climates too. Lightweight merino wool garments breathe and wick moisture away from your skin, keeping you cool, even when it’s humid.

Your Merino wool dress can also go for weeks (yes weeks!!!) at a time without showing signs of odor. Merino wool does this by quickly absorbing sweat which prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria and keeps your skin dry.

Wool& is so confident about this that they host a 100-day dress challenge where their customers are encouraged to wear a wool& dress for 100 days straight for eight hours a day and document their journey on social media.

In addition to this, merino wool is naturally soft, quick-drying, and wrinkle-resistant.

Bamboo is another great option for travelers. One of the biggest benefits of bamboo material is that it is so comfortable.

Bamboo fabric is breathable and has moisture-wicking properties. The structure of the bamboo fibers contains micro-gaps, which provide ventilation and pull moisture away from the body, allowing the skin to breathe. We all know this is extremely important when you’re traveling, especially when you have a tight schedule or are rushing from one train to the next.

As if that wasn’t enough to convince you, bamboo fabric is antibacterial, antifungal, thermoregulating, hypoallergenic, and lightweight!

To top that all off, bamboo fabric is naturally eco-friendly making it an obvious choice for the conscious traveler!

Rayon feels smooth on your skin. It dries quickly and is another great wrinkle-resistant fabric. Unfortunately, it doesn’t wick moisture as well as wool and bamboo, so it’s not the best option for warmer climates where you might sweat a lot.

Some Materials to Avoid

Some fabrics to avoid when traveling are those that lack breathability like nylon or leather.

Another fabric to avoid is cotton . You might think that cotton is a good travel fabric but cotton takes an extremely long time to dry meaning there’s no chance of washing and re-wearing your cotton dress if you get it dirty. 

Even if you’re not planning on re-wearing, if you get cotton wet or get a bit sweaty while you’re traveling, you could be stuck in your wet clothes for hours which can get really uncomfortable and even dangerous if you’re hiking in cold weather. This is even worse in humid conditions.

• Read about the best fabrics for travel clothing .

Do Dresses Limit Travel Wardrobe Options?

“I love dresses and find them to be cool and effortless. Does packing dresses limit my ability to mix and match?”

Great question. On the one hand, if you already love dresses and feel most comfortable in them, then putting dresses on your packing lists is a pretty safe bet for packing with simplicity and ease. Many women love packing dresses because the top is included… there’s no need to put outfits together!

But when it comes to packing less and having loads of options, dresses may not be as versatile as a skirt plus top. You can change the look of dresses with cardigans, sweaters, and shirts over the top, but skirt and top separates give more options because you can mix and match those while also wearing the tops with a pair of jeans or the female travel necessity: leggings .

Or, you can invest in the multi-wear, convertible and reversible travel dresses mentioned in this article. See more convertible travel clothing for women .

Best Ways to Pack Dresses for Travel

Two words: packing cubes .

As with all things we pack, the best ways to pack dresses for travel start with the packing cube. By using a packing cube, dresses won’t get jostled around too much while in transit, but it does help if those dresses are made with wrinkle-resistant fabrics.

If you are packing nicer dresses, or dresses that shouldn’t be rolled up into a cube, the left side of a suitcase is usually a good place to store them. That side often has a zippered enclosure, which is where I store my jackets and nicer clothing that doesn’t get stuffed into a packing cube.

You can fold multiple items together, much like a loose form of bundle wrapping , to lessen the chance for wrinkles.

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Written by Brooke

I run the show at Her Packing List and love packing ultralight. In fact, I once traveled for 3 entire weeks with just the contents of a well-packed 12L handbag . When I'm not obsessing over luggage weight, I'm planning adventures or just snuggling with my pet rabbit, Sherlock Bunz.

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Reader Interactions

December 10, 2012 at 11:47 am

The ExOfficio dress is only $26 in the Raspberry color! And they have my size! Thinking I may have to pick one up, especially with a trip to Mexico in the spring.

December 11, 2012 at 6:36 am

Go for it! It looks very versatile, casual or nice 🙂

April 14, 2013 at 6:33 pm

You forgot the Scottevest Phoebe Dress, available in several colors and short or longer lengths. The top is similar to the ExOfficio Tank Dress, but the dress is a bit more loose and has two hidden pockets for cash, credit card, etc. Very versatile and easy to accessorize.

April 16, 2013 at 2:24 pm

My only problem with this list is that they are not good for top-heavy girls, like myself.

The Kamala dress is the worst! The tiny strings have to be tied pretty tightly to keep them from slipping and even then there’s a great chance of falling. The strings also have to be tied so tightly that they can dig into your neck or just plain give you neck pain.

The Bandeau is another I couldn’t wear without a cami underneath and then you have the issue of cami straps underneath a halter-style dress.

They are gorgeous though!

April 19, 2013 at 5:44 pm

I own the American Apparel dress and for smaller breasted ladies like me (34A) some the style like the one pictures leave lots of fabric hanging by the armpits…not a good look. That being said, I can wear it as a bandeau and a high-waisted skirt. I’m wondered if I would have similar problems with the Kamala skirt? Does anyone know?

May 29, 2013 at 1:57 pm

I traveled through Thailand with the Norma Kamali all-in-one dress from walmart ( http://www.walmart.com/ip/Norma-Kamali-Women-s-All-in-One-Jersey-Dress/11963662 ). It’s super cheap but the fabric is really high quality. What is great about this dress is that it has long sleeves if you need to cover your arms (plane or holy places) but easily transitions into a tube top, one sleeve, halter top, etc. and i can easily make it into a shirt or a dress. it was like having 10 shirts/dresses in one piece of clothing! I’d wash it at night and hang it to dry and by morning it would be dry. My boyfriend was amazed! We would go to fancy places and the material and cut is nice enough to pass in an upscale restaurant. I highly recommend it.

June 28, 2014 at 1:30 pm

Absolutely love this list. I’m always looking for good ideas and this site is full of them!

I am in love with the infinity skirt but I can’t seem to find one from the links posted. 🙁 Would you be able to give me the brand or something else to go off of to find it????

November 8, 2014 at 2:33 pm

Hello, Thanks for this great site and helpful tips! Could you perhaps update this list? I wanted to get the Ex Officio dress but it is not available anywhere anymore. Are there new options that are similar?

May 22, 2017 at 1:15 pm

prAna makes great dresses for traveling also! I have several of their styles and I will never live without them!

June 3, 2019 at 4:30 pm

I cannot vouch enough for the Betabrand Round Trip Dress. I just picked one up and it’s so soft and light to wear.

Thank you for making this list so i could find these dresses.

March 27, 2020 at 8:09 am

Love this list! The Betabrand dress is my favorite, what a versatile yet classy item. Can’t wait to try it out on my next trip. Thanks for the inspiration!

June 28, 2020 at 12:06 pm

“Title Nine” has an exceptional selection of travel skirts, dresses, and other clothing. The items are wrinkle-free, fold compactly, are versatile and perfect for traveling.

August 22, 2023 at 8:56 pm

I found this dress which I took travelling this summer. https://www.reitmans.com/en/short-puffy-sleeve-dress-with-bow-at-neckline/467264.html?dwvar_467264_color=Black&cgid=Women_Dresses#start=1 It has a bumpy seersucker finish and doesn’t wrinkle at all. It’s loose enough to be cool even though it is polyester and that back tie adds syle. Unfortunately, it’s a seasonal offering and there aren’t many sizes left!

August 23, 2023 at 8:00 am

Thanks for sharing!

[…] 2 dresses – I usually pack one casual dress and one nice dress for a dinner out on the town. (Have a look at our top 5 travel dresses). […]

[…] outfit ideas include wearing an oversized men’s shirt and belting it, under your favorite travel dress or if you’re particularly daring, under […]

[…] Dresses: Travel dresses are very versatile and can go from touring in the day to dancing on Bourbon Street at night. Make […]

[…] the pool and dinner every night, you pack one swimsuit for that day, one pool outfit, and then your dress for that night. If you know you’re doing a hiking tour one day, pick your outfit and stick to […]

[…] dresses I prefer to pack dresses because I love to wear them and they capitalize on suitcase space. I’ve been known to pack […]

[…] my post on the Top 5 Travel Dresses, I listed the American Apparel Bandeau dress and later purchased said dress in navy on […]

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These Are the Perfect, Wrinkle-Free Dresses To Wear When You’re Traveling

The perfect travel dress ticks all of the boxes above and is the ideal mix of form, function, and freedom (because as obvious of a choice as leggings might be, the discomfort of altitude swelling is no joke). Going somewhere warm? Pick a breezy, flowy, maxi sundress that can double as your beach day attire. On your way to the slopes? Opt for a sweater dress that you can pair with tights for an apres ski dinner. Dreading a long flight with six connections along the way? Choose a silk slip dress that is so soft it could double as a nightgown .

When it comes to travel dresses, there truly is something for everyone. They're also supremely versatile, so you can wear them with sneakers when you're on the go, and then swap for a pair of heels to hit the town. Sold yet? Scroll down to shop 12 travel dresses that are soft, stress-free, and stylish.

The best travel dresses

Calling all layering lovers! This silk slip dress is the perfect combination of saucy and comfy, ideal to wear under a sweater (or two), thin and easy to pack, and as a bonus, it’s machine washable.

If you’re looking for an option that is soft enough to wear on a long flight but still on-trend enough to wear out to dinner after, this dress is made for you. The subtle sparkles elevate the look, while the thin, breathable, cozy fabric hugs your body without being too tight. This dress is perfect to pair with a blanket scarf and snooze your flight away.

Now that the winter chill has officially arrived, all anyone can think about is escaping the cold. This white, midi, shirtdress is perfect to wear if you’re headed somewhere warm because you can pair it with tights for the flight and then take them off and wear it as a beach cover up when you arrive.

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This long sleeved, A-line dress is sustainably made and has a hood that makes plane sleeping a breeze and acts as your own wearable Do Not Disturb button.

Mock neck, ribbed, and cotton. This dress ticks all of the boxes when it comes to cozy dressing. The look is majorly flattering while still being a basic, neutral closet staple that is easy to dress up or down.

With 5 neutral shades to choose from, this effortless but elegant dress is perfect for anyone and everyone going anywhere. It makes getting dressed a breeze, and the V-neckline shows a little skin while the cashmere knit makes you feel like you’re living in a cloud rather than flying in one.

Not a maxi dress person? This above the knee number is breathable and soft, making it perfect for travel, while being flirty enough to wear on a night out.

This shirt dress is stylish and structured while still being comfy. The oversized fit makes it perfect to wear alone or paired with leggings for a versatile airplane look.

If you’re one of the lucky few that’s been gifted with the skill of sleeping on an airplane, this dress has your name written all over it. Though specifically designed as a night shirt, the versatile cut and color makes it totally airport approved and appropriate.

This polo necked maxi is perfect to add a little pep to your step as you saunter through the airport shops. The pink color will stand out against a sea of blacks and greys, and the side slits are made for optimal in seat mobility.

So you want to wear and oversized tank and nothing else? This long T-shirt dress is sleeveless (say buh-bye to sweat stains), cotton for ultimate breathability, and durable so you can wear it flight after flight after car after train.

Pair this dress with a set of white sneakers for the ultimate “Woman on the Go” look. The T-shirt style is cool and casual, while the washable silk material elevates the outfit, making it versatile and oh so convenient.

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What to Wear on a Plane? Our Editors Weigh In

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.

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

Accessories

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

Getting to the airport in NYC always feels like a bit of an ordeal, especially when public transportation is involved. I love these joggers for those mad dashes through the train station and TSA—the fit is just right, the waistband isn’t overly constricting, the pockets have zippers to keep items secure, and the fabric handles light rain (and sweat) much better than a soft cotton pair of joggers. — Madison Flager , senior commerce editor

I tend to assume airplanes will be colder than I’d like, and I’m often right. This cozy Uniqlo cashmere sweater is a great deal, and easy to shove into my Baggu purse so I have it as a backup. Even if I don’t wear it on the flight, I find myself snuggling with it as a pillow at the very least—and I usually am grateful for it during my trip, too, as it’s the perfect layer in a pinch. — Megan Spurrell , associate articles director

The Aerie crossover leggings have been a staple of my travel uniform for the past few years. What I love most about traveling in these leggings is that they are supportive and help smooth the tummy area without being at all restrictive or uncomfortable to sit in for hours. The crossover design on the waistband makes them ultra-flattering on every body type, and they are so lightweight. — Meaghan Kenny , commerce editor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TSA is a well-oiled machine and I never want to be the traveler that holds up the line. The hands-free design makes these of my go-to shoe for hectic, mid-day flights when I know there will be a of waiting. I can easily slid these shoes off and on before and after security—plus, the insole is cushioned so even while I'm speed walking to my gate, my feet feel like they're walking on clouds. — Paris Wilson, commerce writer

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

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

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

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

A sling bag is an airport essential. Having a hands-free bag makes carrying my luggage and moving through security a breeze; it gives me easy access to my phone, AirPods, passport, lip balm, and any other small essentials I have on me. Plus, it makes any simple, cozy outfit look a little more chic. —M.K.

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

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DUMOS Dresser for Bedroom, Fabric Storage Tower Chest Sturdy Metal Frame, Wood Tabletop for Kids Room, Closet, Entryway, Nursery, 8 Drawers, White

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• 【Multipurpose Usage】 This premium storage drawers mixes classic and modern designs, allowing it to blend seamlessly with any decor style in your home, and perfectly fit as a kids dresser, baby dresser, bedroom dresser, closet dresser and nursery dresser for your bedroom storage or living room storage.
• 【Large Capacity】For easy storage, 8 drawer dresser for bedroom are offered. Theses deep drawers are spacious enough to provide endless organizational possibilities. The wooden top is great for keeping the most-used items within your reach. In addition, the chest of drawers could be folded for easy storage when not in use, and the dresser organizer is portable, lightweight, and easy to relocate to different spaces.
• 【Premium Material】This storage chest is made of cationic materials, all other sides and gaps are made of high-quality breathable and non-woven synthetic fiber, harmless and wear-resistant, suitable for kids, teens and adults. Easy-pull drawers for smooth sliding and closing. For easy cleaning, just wipe with damp cloth and get it air-dried.
• 【Upgrade Sturdy Construction】The bedroom storage cabinet is equipped with a 1.5MM thickened steel frame and 15 MM MDF board (Capcity: 66LBs) for long-lasting construction and is not easy to deform. It comes with "X" cross support bar to ensure the stable support and anti-tipping accessories to prevent accidents.
• 【Assemble & Service】The package is equipped with instructions and an accessories bag, which allows only about 20 minutes to assemble your storage dresser with detailed instructions or the installation video. If you have encountered any problems, we would be delighted to help you find a solution and reply to your email within 24 hours.

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Customers say

Customers like the appearance, sturdiness, ease of assembly, value, and size of the dresser. For example, they mention it's well designed, sturdy, and easy to put together. That said, some complain about the smell.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the dresser easy to put together. They mention that the directions are good and the hardware is packed by number. They also say the drawers glide effortlessly, making organization a breeze.

"Received a couple days earlier. Very ez to put together . Missing screwdriver. Not big deal. Used the hex wrench enclosed...." Read more

"Very good looking and sturdy dresser . Was very easy to assemble and very convenient for the price 😊..." Read more

"Took me 1-1/2 hours to assemble, but I’m disabled. Instructions were easy , parts labeled exactly and everything you need is included...." Read more

"...The smooth drawers glide effortlessly, making organization a breeze . A must-have for any bedroom!"" Read more

Customers like the sturdiness of the dresser. For example, they mention it has ample storage space, and the construction is sturdy. Some say the draws are stoutier than expected, and that the quality is good. Overall, most are satisfied with the du00e9cor and functionality of the product.

"...It's sturdy classic black and worth the cost" Read more

"...Holds a lot of items and is sturdy ! I will probably order another one! A+" Read more

"...With ample storage space and sturdy construction , it's both functional and stylish...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the dresser. They mention that it looks good, is very nice, and well designed. Some appreciate the coffee color and say it's easy to build.

"...time I had was putting handles on drawers.alittle time consuming. looks great .holds a lot .did have an odor.left over night empty and was fine the..." Read more

" Very good looking and sturdy dresser . Was very easy to assemble and very convenient for the price 😊..." Read more

"...This is a handsome piece , especially for the money. Holds a lot of items and is sturdy! I will probably order another one! A+" Read more

"...ample storage space and sturdy construction, it's both functional and stylish . The smooth drawers glide effortlessly, making organization a breeze...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the size of the dresser. They mention it's spacious, holds important clothes, and is perfect for smaller rooms. The drawers are deep enough for storage. Some say the dressers are easy to build and the handles are good.

"...was putting handles on drawers.alittle time consuming.looks great. holds a lot .did have an odor.left over night empty and was fine the next day...." Read more

"...This is a handsome piece, especially for the money. Holds a lot of items and is sturdy! I will probably order another one! A+" Read more

"...Its sleek design adds elegance to any room. With ample storage space and sturdy construction, it's both functional and stylish...." Read more

"...The weight isn’t as heavy as I thought. Storage space was okay . Expected it to be more spacious but i guess it’ll have to do...." Read more

Customers like the fit of the dresser. They say it's perfect for kids clothes, fits well in small closet space, and is very easy to assemble and move. It's also very light and compact, yet sturdy, making it perfect for smaller rooms.

"...Good quality for the price and the storage. Fits all of my newborn ’s onesies and socks." Read more

"I bought 2 of these to use under my kids loft beds. They fit perfect and even my little guy (3 yrs old) can reach all the drawers to help put his..." Read more

"It’s a cute dresser but a lot smaller than expected . It has a strong chemical smell." Read more

"...It looks really nice and fits neatly in his room . I would buy this again and again just for the value!" Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the dresser. They say it looks like an expensive piece of furniture, and is easy to assemble. Some customers also mention that the quality seems good for the price. Overall, most are happy with their purchase and recommend it to others.

"...It's sturdy classic black and worth the cost " Read more

"...Was very easy to assemble and very convenient for the price 😊..." Read more

"Soft and easy to move. Good quality for the price and the storage. Fits all of my newborn’s onesies and socks." Read more

"I needed a couple of dressers for my new living space. These are affordable and easy/quick to assemble...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the performance of the dresser. They mention that it serves its purpose, is easy to put together, and is spacious.

"...With ample storage space and sturdy construction, it's both functional and stylish...." Read more

"...I’m not expecting it to last 20yrs but 3yrs will do. It works perfectly for me and the material looks sturdy enough to hold my clothes." Read more

"I ordered this for my teenage grandson room and it works great ! He was so happy with the look and it was easy to assemble ...." Read more

" Works great in closet and in guest room." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the smell of the dresser.

"It’s a cute dresser but a lot smaller than expected. It has a strong chemical smell ." Read more

"Nice product but it smells so bad . If I knew it was going to smell this bad I would have left it in the box and returned it but now it’s too late." Read more

" Really strong smell ! Easy to put together and looks great but smelling up my bedroom...." Read more

"It’s pretty easy to set up, however the drawers smell awful . I’ve been airing them out for a week and they still smell bad." Read more

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McDonald’s Launches Collector’s Edition Cups Inspired by Iconic Collectibles

August 07, 2024

Fans worldwide can now add McDonald’s new collectible cups to their collection beginning August 13

(CHICAGO – Aug. 7, 2024) – McDonald’s collectibles are as iconic as they come. From toys to vintage posters, plates, merch, games and trading cards, these keepsakes are more than just collector’s items – they unlock some of our fans’ favorite McDonald’s memories. Now, for a limited time, McDonald’s is introducing the global Collector's Edition with new collectible cups that inspire fans to relive those special moments and create nostalgic joy for a new generation.

Available in more than 30 countries, the Collector’s Edition cups, in embossed glass or tritan plastic, put a fresh spin on classic McDonald’s keepsakes from the brand, Coca-Cola, Mattel, Universal, Sanrio or TY Beanie Babies. Each cup spotlights iconic collectibles from different eras that our fans cherish, like the Grimace Mug in 1976, Pet Lovin’ Barbie in 1999, Shrek from ‘Shrek the Third’ in 2007 and more. Inspired by a variety of iconic characters and collabs, now is your chance to grab these reimagined designs among many others – this time, emblazoned on McDonald’s brand-new collectible cups.

“There’s an undeniable thrill when you snag that one elusive McDonald’s collectible or the final piece to complete your collection. We’re bringing back some of our most-loved keepsakes with a twist, giving fans a memory that they can hold in their hands,” said Morgan Flatley, Global Chief Marketing Officer and Head of New Business Ventures at McDonald's. “These new collectible cups commemorate some of our most unforgettable designs and global collaborations over the years, allowing longtime fans to relive treasured moments and helping a new generation make their own lasting memories.”

Whether you’re a collector, love the look, or simply feel nostalgic, check your McDonald’s App and/or local participating McDonald’s restaurant to see how you can snag the select Collector’s Edition cups available in your area.

About McDonald’s

McDonald’s is the world’s leading global foodservice retailer with over 40,000 locations in over 100 countries. Approximately 95% of McDonald’s restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local business owners. All marks and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

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The Best Rain Jackets for Men of 2024

Including ultralight packable jackets for hiking adventures.

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.

best overall

Outdoor research men's foray ii gore-tex jacket.

33,000ft Men's Rain Jacket

best sustainable

Patagonia men's torrentshell 3l rain jacket.

Experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab evaluate a variety of high-performance clothing from the best raincoats for women to the best running jackets . When testing the best rain jackets for men, we conducted market research on 20 coats and called in 11 top-performing jackets to evaluate each style in our Lab using our standardized water repellency test . The data collected helped us narrow down top-tested picks that range in style and price.

Jackets made with Gore-Tex are typically top-of-the-line when it comes to waterproofing. In addition to its Gore-Tex membrane and polyester shell, the Foray II offers a secure fit and a hood with a drawstring in the back. You can zip the welded one-way zipper up to the chin for extra protection from rain. There is no mesh lining or vents, but the jacket has two-way zippers that go from the armpit to the hem for breathability.

The jacket is lightweight enough to be folded down for easy packing, although it doesn't compress into itself. The external material is thin but soft and isn't as loud as other raincoats we'll cover elsewhere in this guide. We appreciate the three zippered pockets for holding small essentials like your phone, wallet or keys.

Sizes: S–XXXL | Material: Polyester, Gore-Tex | Weight: 11.9 oz

Our style pros noticed this Amazon brand rising in popularity for its affordable price point so we called it in to see how it performed against pricier jackets. For less than half the price of other top-tested picks, you'll still get a storm flap secured with a hook and loop closure, adjustable drawcords and external pockets. We especially like that the drawcords on the hood are hidden for a more streamlined look and that the coat comes with a travel pouch so you can fold it up into a small bundle.

It has a 4.5-star rating on Amazon with five-star reviews calling it the "perfect rain jacket" that "checks all the boxes" for around $50 to $60, depending on which color you choose. We found the 33,000ft rain jacket to be comparable to a style by Colombia but with a much more affordable price point. Still, the material is on the thinner side and it was a little noisy in testing.

Sizes: S–4XL | Material: Polyester | Weight: Not listed

Patagonia is widely recognized for its sustainable practices , from using renewable materials in packaging to minimizing its carbon emissions. We have included its clothing in our guides to sustainable fashion brands and the best eco-friendly products . The Torrentshell is no different in its sustainable production and top performance. Its high-quality design makes for a great waterproof jacket that can be packed down for travel.

Though it was the loudest rain jacket in our testing, we were impressed with its performance-minded features. The hood is structured with a stiff brim and a drawcord in the back as well as two more cords in the front. We appreciate the storm flap cover and its two roomy pockets. And you'll appreciate the zippers along the armpits for extra breathability on sticky days.

Sizes: XS–3XL | Material: Performance fabric | Weight: 14.1 oz

Cotopaxi Cielo Men's Rain Jacket

If you hike or climb, you have probably seen a colorful Cotopaxi daypack along the trail or at the gym. Our pros like the brand's outerwear, including the Cielo Men's Rain Jacket, just as much as its backpacks. We appreciate the PFC-free DWR finish for added water repellency and its customizable fit thanks to drawcords in the back and loops around the cuffs. Even though the jacket doesn't have a mesh lining or vents for breathability, it wasn't as loud as other jackets and had a soft, more substantial feel.

We also like the three spacious zippered pockets. The jacket has a storm flap and collar that zips all the way under your chin to prevent any water from getting inside. The color-block design is more stylish than some raincoats too. While the jacket is lightweight and therefore easy to travel with, it doesn't come with a pouch for simplified transport.

Sizes: XS–XXXL | Material: Polyester | Weight: Not listed

Eddie Bauer Men's Packable Rainfoil Jacket

If there's one thing our packing pros recommend always bringing on a trip, it's a rain jacket. You never know when the weather will take a turn and it's better to be prepared. By design, raincoats are already more packable than your winter jacket but some are still easier to pack than others. You can fold this jacket into its own mesh pocket! The raincoat basically turns into its own packing cube to take up minimal space in your suitcase.

In addition to this helpful feature, the Rainfoil Jacket also comes equipped with almost every standout feature you'll need to keep dry. It has a two-layer polyester shell with a DWR finish, drawcords for a better fit, sealed interior seams and velcro cuffs. We found the material heavier than the Cotopaxi featured in this round-up, but we like that you can also zip it up to your chin.

Sizes: S–XXL | Material: Polyester | Weight: Not listed

Outdoor Research Men's Helium Rain Ultralight Jacket

Per its name, the Helium Rain jacket is indeed ultralight. Our analyst said it was the lightest rain jacket she has evaluated thus far, although she notes that it has a simple design. Still, the jacket can fold up easily so you can take it with you anywhere. It's made of nylon ripstop and Pertex Diamond Fuse fibers for even more durability. We did find the fabric to be a little noisy in Lab testing.

The jacket features drawcords at the hem and the back of the hood for a secure fit that will help keep the rain out. We like that the hood also has a structured brim so it will hold its shape in heavy rain or wind. Note that there is only one external chest pocket which doesn't allow as much storage. Given the lack of extra features, it does come in at a lower price than our best overall pick from Outdoor Research — which is definitely a pro if you want something more budget-friendly.

Sizes: XS–XXXL | Material: Nylon, pertex | Weight: 7.05 oz

Helly Hansen Men's Moss Raincoat

If you hit the slopes come snowy season, then you are probably familiar with the popular brand Helly Hensen for its skiing outwear. Available in classic yellow or a versatile navy, this raincoat by Helly Hensen stood out in our tests for its waterproof design. It has snaps on each cuff and pocket as well as drawstrings on both sides of the hood. The jacket also has a storm flap with silver snaps. While there is no mesh lining, there is a vent with small holes in the back for some breathability on a wet, humid day.

We found the Moss Raincoat to be a bit heavy and bulky and thus harder to pack into a bag or luggage. It's also on the thicker side and almost has the texture of rainboot, found our analyst. Even though it may not be our first choice to bring on vacation, it's a stellar option to keep in your coat closet at home for local downpours.

Sizes: XS–2XL | Material: Polyurethane | Weight: 1.6 lbs

Other men’s rain jackets we tested

Of the 11 rain jackets we tested in Lab, we chose the top seven coats to feature — but that doesn't mean the four other raincoats we evaluated don't deserve a mention. Here's what we liked and what we didn't like.

• Colombia Men's Watertight II Jacket : This very lightweight and packable jacket has all the features of a solid rain jacket, including an adjustable hood, mesh lining and external pocket. It also features drawstrings for a personalized fit and a double closure along the zipper. That said, we found the thin material to be rather loud in testing. Our pros found it to be a basic, quality jacket but wished the price was a bit lower given its simpler design.
• REI Co-op Men's Rainier Rain Jacket : While REI sells a lot of outerwear brands included in this round-up, it also sells its own line of clothing. This raincoat is a popular pick on the brand's site, with a 4.4-star rating. We like that its membrane is made from durable nylon ripstop and that it has pit zips. The jacket is also just under $100 for another more affordable buy. We haven't tested this jacket in Lab yet but are looking forward to evaluating it as part of our ongoing testing of the category.
• Duluth Men's No-Rainer Jacket : This heavy-duty rain jacket has all the core requirements of a great jacket for a reasonable price at under $150. Our pros liked the functional design, including a structured and adjustable hood, two-way pit zips for breathability and secure pockets — to name a few features. But we took off points for its loud and almost rough outer material and wished it was easier to pack.
• The North Face Men's Antora Jacket : Popular for its fuzzy zip-up jackets, The North Face is also a go-to for raincoats. The Antora has over 1,700 online reviews and is designed to be waterproof, windproof and breathable — a triple threat! It also has cords on the hood and hemline for adjustability as well as a storm flap with a hook and loop closure. This is another style we hope to evaluate in Lab and send out to our consumer testers.
• Arc'teryx Norvan Shell Jacket Men's : Arc'teryx stores have been popping up left and right — and you may have seen its logo on the arm of commuters' jackets. While the brand is an excellent choice if you're looking for a top-performing rain jacket to keep you dry and warm on trails or mountaineering adventures, it comes at a hefty sum. Its price is the main reason we didn't include a raincoat from the brand, although if you have the budget and want to invest in a piece of gear — this is it.

How we tested the be best rain jackets for men

Experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textile, Paper & Apparel Lab constantly evaluate rain gear from the best raincoats for women to the best umbrellas . To find the best rain jackets for men, we began with market research of top-selling brands and called in 11 styles to test in the Lab and send out to consumer testers for long-term feedback on fit, comfort, appearance, washability and, of course, how well the coat kept them dry.

When testing in the Lab, we first evaluated construction features like seams and stitches as well as the noise level of the outer material. To test water repellency, we took each raincoat under our in-house rain tester which lets us evaluate water repellency in the Lab. From there, we narrowed down our picks further by considering extra features like a secure hood, pockets, insulation and more.

What to look for when looking for the best men’s rain jackets

✔️ Fibers: Almost every rain jacket on the market is made from synthetic fibers such as nylon or polyester because they are hydrophobic (i.e., repel water), durable and easy to clean. Constantine notes that while these fibers excel at keeping you dry, they don't offer as much breathability.

✔️ Material: Rain jackets are typically made with performance weave fabrics or ripstop, "a high-strength material that’s able to resist wear and tear," explains Constantine. High-tech jackets will also feature a membrane, "a thin material that’s porous and allows for sweat vapor to escape but prevents water droplets from passing through," says Constantine. Gore-Tex is another popular membrane option that features pores 20,000 times smaller than water droplets to keep you dry.

✔️ Water repellency: Raincoats may also feature a chemical finish or coating that is applied directly to the material to improve the jacket's ability to repel moisture. Some examples are DWRs or polyurethane, in addition to waxes, oils and silicones. One thing to note is that these coatings and finishes will break down over time, but you can reapply finishes to help make the jacket last longer.

✔️ Ventilation: As previously mentioned, rain jackets don't always have the best breathability because they are made from synthetic fibers, but some coats have zippered ventilation systems under the armpits or throughout the torso to improve airflow. Mesh paneling and lining is another design feature that can help improve breathability.

✔️ Weather-proof design: In addition to everything mentioned above, Constantine also points out extra features that can be game-changers when you're caught in a bad rainstorm. One is a double-front closure that combines "a zipper wither either snaps or a hook and loop element or a storm flap covering the zipper to provide extra protection." You may also see a more structured hood that has a brim and adjustability features to help keep rain out of your line of sight. Adjustable hems and cuffs can provide an even more secure fit "while yokes or extra panels of fabric covering the chest and back allow water to roll away from the body to keep you dry," mentions Constantine.

✔️ Packability: While packing up your raincoat into a tight roll may not be at the forefront of your mind, it's something to keep in mind if you hike, travel or have limited closet space. Some raincoats will come with a convenient pouch or will fold down into a pocket. If neither of those apply, I like to fold my raincoat into the hood.

What is the difference between a water-resistant jacket and a waterproof jacket?

Constantine explains the two terms can be used interchangeably, but the slightly different wording can impact the performance of your raincoat. "Rain jackets labeled water-resistant will protect you from the rain for a certain amount of time, but the material will eventually soak, leaving you wet," says Constantine. These jackets are great for daily use in light rain showers, but they aren't as effective in downpours.

Meanwhile, waterproof jackets "will help you to stay as dry as possible because they’re made with material that’s essentially extra water-resistant and able to withstand extended exposure to heavy rains," explains Constantine. They'll often feature welded or seal seams and covered zippers for even more protection and won't soak through as easily as a water-resistant jacket, adds Constantine.

To complicate things just a little bit further, there are also Durable Water Repellent (DWR) jackets that improve water resistance. Most DWRs were previously made with fluorine, "a chemical that’s great at keeping people dry but in the long-term, it’s harmful to people and the environment," adds Constantine. Many brands are shifting gears and using DWRs without fluorine. That said, some brands still work with the chemical. We recommend buying a PFC-free jacket.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Elizabeth Berry is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she collaborates across Labs to ensure our product guides are up-to-date with the latest information and pricing. She has covered a breadth of clothing topics from the best socks for men to the best men's swim trunks . When it comes to raincoats, Elizabeth held onto her North Face jacket for far too long and has learned the hard way that you want a coat that keeps you dry and warm.

To write this story, Elizabeth worked with Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst Amanda Constantine to gather top-performing picks and shopping advice. Amanda conducted our latest categorical testing of rain jackets for men and women, putting popular picks to the test. She holds degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State 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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• Travel Products

The 8 Best Travel Clothing Brands, Tested and Reviewed

From swimwear to loungewear, we’ve got you covered from your hometown to your final destination.

In This Article

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco

A travel wardrobe is different from a regular wardrobe. How so? It should include comfy, breathable pieces made of stretchy, flexible fabrics while also being versatile, layerable, and suitable for different activities, climates, and occasions.

Finding items that check all the boxes can be challenging. To make it easy, we’ve rounded up the best travel clothing brands that carry casual, professional, weather-friendly, and active pieces alike.

The Travel + Leisure team not only trusts these featured brands but has also personally tried many of their best-selling, highly rated clothes, outerwear, and shoes firsthand. We used our extensive apparel testing process — and frequent trips — to come up with the best places to shop online for all types of travelers.

Best Athleisure: Alo

The brand's active-meets-casual pieces are just the thing for travel days and sporty weekend looks.

You'll mostly find athletic and loungewear clothing, but there are some good trousers and knitwear items, too.

Alo is technically a yoga apparel brand, but we can't get enough of its excellent athleisure while at home and on the go, too. Whether we're planning a workout or power walking through a new city on vacation, we reach for the brand's tanks, joggers, and active dresses time and time again.

We especially love Alo's 7/8 High-waist Airlift Legging on account of its extra-wide waistband and soft fabric that lifts and sculpts your curves. When going for a more laid-back look, we'd rock the slouchy Accolade Sweatpant with a pair of sneakers. The brand has also expanded its offerings to include things like work-ready trousers , knit sweaters , sleek bodysuits , and day-to-night dresses for times when loungewear simply won't do.

And, when temperatures drop, we can't help but reach for the Foxy Sherpa Jacket which is "extremely comfortable, warm, and cozy," according to testing editor Jackie Cucco. "This is a high-quality jacket that has held up well after five months of use, making it worth the price," she adds.

Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco

Best for Capsule Wardrobes: Everlane

Its impressive collection of classy, neutral, travel-ready clothes are easy to mix and match.

The brand has some colder-weather pieces available, but likely won't be your best bet for temperature extremes.

Everlane carries a mostly seasonless collection of travel-ready apparel, including everyday crewnecks , elegant tops , and on-trend jeans . The minimalist designs are great whether you're packing light or dipping your toe into the capsule wardrobe concept, as it's easy to mix and match the mostly neutral palette.

The Dream Pant is a go-to pick and has gotten us through a 12-hour day while away and a full day at the office without wrinkling, making it an ideal pair to wear just about anywhere. Another favorite is The Easy Pant , which proved to be incredibly comfy even after one of us was caught in a 4-hour flight delay and left snuggling on airport seats at 12 a.m.

We also love the versatility of many of the brand's basics, especially when it comes to layering. One standout is The ReNew Long Liner which has made several coast-to-coast trips and compresses seamlessly. "Although the jacket is quite long, I was floored at how easy it was to pack it down into a packing cube or small corner of my carry-on bag," associate editor Anna Popp says.

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best Value: Quince

Quince works directly with factories to offer lower prices on luxury items without any middlemen.

The many cashmere and silk items are machine washable, but the brand still recommends hand washing.

Quince is a relatively new clothing brand but has gained a loyal following since its 2020 launch. When you browse the site, you'll find pieces made from premium materials, like supersoft cashmere , natural silk , and sustainable linen with prices that may surprise you. There's even a chart on each product page that breaks down exactly how the brand keeps costs so low. Despite the price, these high-quality, multi-season garments are meant to last. In fact, Quince also has an almost unheard-of 365-day return window to back things up.

It's hard to beat the $50 Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater , which is the perfect weight to wear on a chilly summer night and to layer as temperatures drop. We're also big fans of the Washable Stretch Silk Blouse because it's not only machine washable, but it can also easily serve as a multipurpose nice top when packing light for a weekend away.

When it comes to one must-pack item for all summer trips, our hands-down favorite is the comfortable and versatile 100% European Linen Smocked Midi Dress (which several members of our team own). "I've worn it in every situation from plane rides to exploring new cities, as a beach cover-up, and as work attire," editor Taylor Fox shares. "It matches with just about everything and I love that I can dress it up with a pair of wedges or go for a more casual look with a cute pair of sneakers."

Travel + Leisure / Tiffany Salter

Best Size-inclusive: Girlfriend Collective

Many styles run from XXS to 6XL, plus they're made of stretchy, flexible fabrics that won't wrinkle in your suitcase.

The brand suggests using a wash bag or microfiber filter when washing and hanging items to dry.

Girlfriend Collective has one of the most inclusive size ranges out there — many of its styles come in 11 sizes, running from XXS to 6XL. The brand carries fitness apparel from sports bras to tennis dresses along with a wide range of relaxed joggers and full-length windbreakers – all stretchy, breathable, wrinkle-resistant, and packable. Most items are made of fabrics sourced from recycled plastic bottles, and you can even recycle the pieces you're done wearing through the ReGirlfriend program.

The brand's Compressive Pocket Legging is a stellar choice for travel. We like how the soft yet sturdy fabric holds you in without restricting movement, and the deep side pockets are big enough for a phone or passport. We also approve of the brand's many bodysuits , such as the Marlow High Neck Bodysuit (with an option of a brief or thong bottom) as this shirt style can match nearly any vacation wardrobe.

Travel + Leisure / Stormy Miller

Most Versatile: Spanx

Spanx offers thoughtfully designed clothing items you can wear while traveling, to work, and on weekends, with many styles offered in regular, short, and tall lengths.

Many items come in limited colors, but the selection is getting broader.

Spanx is almost synonymous with shapewear. The brand carries a comprehensive selection of undergarments that hold you in, smooth certain areas, and enhance your curves — think high-rise underwear, compressive shorts, sleek camis. However, they bring that classic design to clothes you can — and want to — wear on the outside, too. We love that there's core-smoothing in their workout clothes (like the Booty Boost Active Leggings ) and going-out pieces including the Suit Yourself Boat Neck Ribbed Bodysuit which we love as a sleek long-sleeve shirt you can style many ways.

Beyond the fitted items, the brand's made-for-travel AirEssentials Collection will remain the first answer many of us give when asked what's the best material to wear on a long flight . It can be found in a range of styles from sleep-ready half-zip sweatshirts to full-length jumpsuits that we've even worn out with heels.

And, while it may not be the first brand you think of when it comes to work attire, we're here to tell you otherwise as The Perfect Pant is simply perfect at looking like pants but feeling like pajamas. "After a full day at the office, they were so comfortable, I didn't immediately want to change out of them when I returned home either," associate editorial director Morgan Ashley Parker shares.

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Best for Hiking: Patagonia

This outdoor apparel brand has all types of hiking clothes, from pocketed pants and shorts to layering pieces and weather-ready, stuffable outerwear.

Patagonia doesn't make hiking shoes or boots.

If you're planning a hiking trip, Patagonia likely has almost all the apparel you need. We're talking sweat-wicking layering pieces , pocketed rain pants and shorts, packable puffer coats , and quick-dry socks .

Of course, we'd not be able to discuss this brand without mentioning the always-trending Baggies shorts which come in a variety of colors with inseams ranging from 2.5 inches up to seven inches long .

We've also tested the Women's Chambeau Rock Pants and love the elastic waistband, adjustable cuffs, ample pockets, silky-soft fabric, and true-to-size fit. The material is also breathable and stretchy, preventing you from overheating while offering a full range of movement on the trail. These pants did a great job repelling water, too, so you can definitely wear them on a drizzly day at your destination.

Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto

Best Outerwear: Columbia

Columbia makes a myriad of weather-ready pieces, like vests, pullovers, stuffable puffers, rain jackets, and windbreakers.

The outerwear options are more for outdoor activities than professional or formal occasions.

Columbia has been making outdoor apparel and accessories for nearly a century. When you shop the collections, you'll find everything from sun-protective clothing to camping gear . However, the brand really stands out for its outerwear offerings, which include fleece pullovers , insulated vests , down jackets , and ski pants . Some options like the Heavenly Hooded Jacket feature Omni-Heat technology, a foil-like lining that essentially reflects your body heat back onto itself to keep you toasty when the temperatures drop while others are three jackets in one with a liner and a shell that can each be worn separately or paired together on trips where temperatures may vary drastically.

We've tested out much of their outerwear and clothing over the years — and Columbia also remains one of our favorite hiking boot brands — but our favorite item would have to be the Carson Pass Interchange Jacket . We were thoroughly impressed with its warmth and how easy it was to layer over various shirts, including bulkier sweatshirts. What's more, it has fleece-lined pockets, sleeves with thumbholes, and a hood that actually stays in place when you put it on.

Travel + Leisure / Maria Rowella

Best Swimwear: Andie

The brand has bikinis and one-pieces in a range of fits and coverage options, including long-torso styles and various bottom cuts.

Some styles may not fit or be supportive enough on larger chests, and only one bikini style goes up to DD.

Andie is a prime place to shop for swimsuits. The brand is known for its well-made one-pieces with flattering cuts and comfortable designs that don't require constant adjusting — including options for long torsos and plus-size bodies . You'll also find bikinis, cover-ups, and various other travel accessories like towels for women, like hats, sunglasses, and beach bags.

We love that you can opt for a plunging one piece or one with a higher neckline , and choose from a range of bikini types, including The Bermuda Bikini Top offered in a range of colors and fabrics up to size DD. You'll also find other beach accessories like colorful sarongs , gauzy minidresses , and palazzo pants .

Of all the styles we've tried, the The Amalfi One Piece tops our list as our favorite one-piece swimsuit . We fell in love with the thick, durable ribbed fabric. It's exceptionally comfy, even when soaking wet, and dries quickly, so you're never soaking wet for long. Though the thin straps may not be supportive enough for those with large chests, we appreciate that you can choose from three coverage options on the bottom: medium, cheeky, or full.

Travel + Leisure / Frances Crouter

Our in-depth testing process for clothing involves carefully inspecting the garments, assessing the materials, trying them on to evaluate the fit, and wearing them for various activities for multiple hours at a time. We rate apparel based on factors such as fit, comfort, breathability, moisture resistance, stretch, durability, care requirements, and overall value. The results for this article were compiled from multiple team members who used each brand's products in real-life settings, often for ongoing, months-long periods.

Tips for Buying Travel Clothing

Choose versatile items.

When buying travel clothes, look for versatile pieces you can dress up or down, mix and match with different outfits, and wear on numerous occasions. Like a capsule wardrobe , this will allow you to pack fewer items and re-wear certain garments. The best apparel for travel is also suitable for multiple seasons, meaning you can layer pieces under or over it for cooler or warmer weather.

Look for travel-friendly features

We recommend prioritizing odor-resistant, breathable, and wrinkle-resistant materials, such as wool, cashmere, lyocell, performance fabrics, and cotton blends containing a stretchy fiber, like spandex or elastane. Some fabrics have built-in sun protection listed as UPF (ultraviolet protection factor).

You'll also be glad to have clothing with pockets. These will come in handy on travel days when you need to quickly stash your phone, boarding pass, ID, or cards. Strategically placed pockets can also allow you to forgo a purse or backpack (or at least bring a smaller one) on some outings.

The best material for travel clothing is stretchy, breathable, and moisture-wicking, meaning it'll draw sweat away from your body to prevent you from overheating. It should also be wrinkle-resistant, so you can pack it in your suitcase without worrying about creases. Fabrics that check all the boxes include wool, cashmere, lyocell, some cotton blends, and performance fabrics.

While you have lots of options for what to wear on a plane, it’s most important to be comfortable and able to move freely, with layers you can take off or throw on if you get hot or cold. Sweats or joggers are a great choice, as is athleisure or a matching loungewear set . Some people prefer flying in a loose maxi dress whereas others like stretchy jeans or trousers with a simple tee or long-sleeve top. No matter what you wear, we'd recommend bringing a warmer layer like a crewneck sweater, half-zip sweatshirt, or button-down flannel since the cabin can get chilly.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer, editor, and product reviewer specializing in travel, apparel, accessories, footwear, and consumer goods. She has worn multiple pieces from every brand on this list and is personally familiar with the fabrics, quality, comfort features, and wearability. This list features brands handpicked by Travel + Leisure editors and writers with shared insights on the pieces they've tested, worn, and reworn on trips around the world.

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NASA Says Boeing Starliner Astronauts May Fly Home on SpaceX in 2025

The agency had insisted for a couple of months that it was confident that Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore would return on Starliner.

By Kenneth Chang

For weeks, NASA has downplayed problems experienced by Starliner, a Boeing spacecraft that took two astronauts to the International Space Station in June.

But on Wednesday, NASA officials admitted that the issues might be more serious than first thought and that the astronauts might not return on the Boeing vehicle, after all.

The agency is exploring a backup option for the astronauts, Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, to instead hitch a ride back to Earth on a spacecraft built by Boeing’s competitor SpaceX.

The astronauts’ stay in orbit, which was to be as short as eight days, could be extended into next year.

“We could take either path,” Ken Bowersox, NASA’s associate administrator for the space operations mission directorate, said during a news conference on Wednesday. “And reasonable people could pick either path.”

The announcement adds more headaches and embarrassment for Boeing, an aerospace giant that has billions of dollars of aerospace contracts with the federal government and builds commercial jets that fly all around the world.

In addition to the woes faced by the company’s civil aviation division after part of a 737 jet’s fuselage blew off during flight in January, Boeing announced on Aug. 1 that it was writing off $125 million of unplanned costs spent on the Starliner program, adding to $1.5 billion of earlier write-offs.

NASA and Boeing officials had maintained that the crew members who launched with Starliner on its first crewed test flight were not stranded in space. Ms. Williams and Mr. Wilmore have spent two months aboard the orbital outpost while engineers continue to analyze data about the faulty performance of several of the Starliner’s thrusters when it approached for docking, as well as several helium leaks.

NASA typically sends a contingent of four astronauts to the space station every six months to replace an earlier crew of astronauts who then return to Earth.

Under the contingency plan, the next SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule would travel to the space station with only two astronauts instead of four. Ms. Williams and Mr. Wilmore would then join as full-fledged members of the space station crew for a half-year stay and return on the Crew Dragon around next February.

“In the last few weeks, we have decided to make sure we have that capability there, as our community, I would say, got more and more uncomfortable,” said Steve Stich, the manager of the commercial crew program at NASA.

Mr. Stich said that no decision had been made but that one would have to be made by the middle of this month.

That Crew Dragon launch has been pushed back to no earlier than Sept. 24 to allow more time for NASA officials to contemplate what to do with Starliner. The launch had been scheduled for Aug. 18.

On Wednesday, a Boeing spokesman said in a statement: “We still believe in Starliner’s capability and its flight rationale. If NASA decides to change the mission, we will take the actions necessary to configure Starliner for an uncrewed return.”

During earlier news conferences, Mr. Stich and Mark Nappi, who runs the Starliner program at Boeing, portrayed the delays as prudent engineering measures.

Mr. Stich also downplayed the possibility that the astronauts would not return on Starliner. On July 10, in response to a question about whether NASA was looking at using Crew Dragon as a backup, Mr. Stich said, “Certainly we’ve dusted off a few of those things to look at relative to Starliner, just to be prepared.”

But he added that Starliner remained the “prime option.”

In the background, NASA had already started working on the backup plan. “We started in early July, doing some early planning with SpaceX for some of these contingencies,” Mr. Stich said on Wednesday. “Then as we got closer and a little bit more data, we started to put a few more things in place.”

A turning point was the ground testing of a similar thruster at NASA’s test facility in White Sands, N.M.

The thruster showed noticeable degradation after the tests. “A bit of a surprise to us,” Mr. Stich said. “And so that, I would say, upped the level of discomfort.”

A buildup of heat appears to have caused Teflon seals in the thruster to bulge and constrict the flow of propellant.

Another test, briefly firing the thrusters on the Starliner in orbit, went smoothly. Indeed, even the ones that had previously lost significant thrust performed close to normal.

That, however, was perplexing, as engineers could not immediately understand how Teflon seals would revert to their original shape, leading them to wonder whether they had missed another issue with the faulty thrusters.

“We can’t totally prove with certainty what we’re seeing on orbit is exactly what’s been replicated on the ground,” Mr. Stich said. “People really want to understand the physics of what’s going on.”

That spurred NASA to work more diligently on the backup plan.

That includes identifying Crew Dragon spacesuits that would fit Ms. Williams and Mr. Wilmore and making preparations so that the Crew Dragon could launch with fewer passengers. (The empty seats would carry ballast to replace the weight of the astronauts.)

Mr. Stich declined to say which two astronauts currently slated to fly on that mission, known as Crew-9, would lose their ride to orbit.

If NASA decides to go with the backup plan, Starliner would still return to Earth in early September, but without anyone aboard. That would free up a docking port on the space station for the astronauts on the next Crew Dragon. Then a Crew Dragon currently docked at the space station would return with four astronauts ending their stay at the space station.

With the delay of the next mission to the space station, the next people headed to orbit could be four private astronauts led by the entrepreneur Jared Isaacman, no earlier than Aug. 26. Their mission, named Polaris Dawn, is to take Mr. Isaacman and a crew to an orbit that stretches 870 miles above the surface, the farthest anyone has been from Earth since NASA’s Apollo moon missions more than five decades ago. Two members of the crew may also attempt the first commercial spacewalk .

Starliner is not the only spacecraft to experience problems en route to the space station this summer. Cygnus, a Northrop Grumman cargo spacecraft, launched on Sunday. But an engine burn to push it on a trajectory to meet up with the space station was canceled because of low pressure in the propulsion system. After analyzing the readings, Northrop Grumman engineers concluded the pressure was adequate and rescheduled the engine burns. Cygnus arrived at the space station early Tuesday at the originally scheduled time.

Kenneth Chang, a science reporter at The Times, covers NASA and the solar system, and research closer to Earth. More about Kenneth Chang

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