21 Packable Jackets You Can Fit in Your Carry-On

Sizes available: Women’s XS–XL

Don’t be fooled by how lightweight this boxy puffer from FP Movement looks—it features PrimaLoft insulation to keep you warm and dry on chilly fall days. It’s also water-resistant and has snap-tab cuffs to lock in extra warmth. The Pippa packable puffer comes highly recommended by commerce editor Meaghan Kenny who says it’s, “the perfect lightweight jacket for fall temperatures.” We also love that it packs into its own pocket and is ultra-soft.

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–L; men’s XS–3XL

As far as trustworthy jackets go, you can’t go wrong with the Patagonia Nano Puff. Available in both men’s and women’s sizes, this year-round essential is windproof, water-resistant, and wrapped in a 100% recycled polyester shell and lining. Made of highly compressible PrimaLoft insulation, this ultra-lightweight jacket packs up tightly in any carry-on. It also features two hand-warming zipper pockets and an adjustable drop-tail hem to seal in extra warmth.

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–2XL

Quilted jackets are a great option for travelers—they’re usually very lightweight, layer well with other outerwear, and because they’re not as warm as a down jacket, they remain a staple almost year-round. We love this one from Everlane that can be worn over a turtleneck during the fall and underneath a wool coat come winter. It’s sustainably made, features handy side pockets, and is available in a few different colors, from navy and black to olive green and a mustard shade of yellow.

Sizes available: Women’s XS–XL; men’s S–2XL

This affordable option from Quince offers a high collar and insulation to keep you warm on cooler days. Despite providing decent insulation for a quilted jacket, this puffer isn’t bulky at all. We also appreciate that it features a water-repellent finish and deep front pockets. Plus, it’s made of 100% recycled materials.

Sizes available: Women’s XS–2XL

Every traveler needs a packable rain jacket in their wardrobe. This waterproof jacket is perfect for outdoor adventures, and comes highly recommended by Traveler’s global digital director Arati Menon after wearing it nonstop on a rainy and windy trip to Fogo Island. She loves its slightly oversized fit, offering enough room for layering a shirt and sweater underneath. It’s made from recycled fishing nets to help reduce ocean plastic pollution—a major plus in our books. More pros: It’s easy to fold up and pack, features an internal chest pocket, and the hood never falls off.

Sizes available: Women’s XS–3XL; men’s S–3XL, plus tall sizes

This one is great for more adventurous trips. At under 10 ounces, it’s ultra-lightweight and can be packed into nearly any bag you’re bringing (it folds up into its own pocket). You’ll be well-protected from any rain and extreme wind, thanks to its water-repellent finish and nylon material that can handle winds up to 60 MPH. Stash any large essentials like an umbrella in either of the two internal drop-in pockets and small items like your phone and wallet in the two zippered hand pockets.

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–2XL; men’s XS–3XL
A simple yet sleek option for travelers to wear everywhere is the Torrentshell 3-liter rain jacket. It packs up to fit in its front pocket—taking up little space in your carry-on, so you don’t need to feel guilty about throwing it in your suitcase last minute for those “what if” scenarios. This breathable, light-as-air rain jacket is completely waterproof and is made to last for years (have you heard of Patagonia’s Ironclad Guarantee?). It also features a two-way-adjustable hood and a micro-fleece-lined neck to provide a comfortable waterproof yet breathable barrier.

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–4XL; men’s XS–3XL

For something a little more fun, you can’t go wrong with Cotopaxi’s rain jacket that features the brand’s signature colorblocking pattern. The retro-inspired jacket is made with fully waterproof fabric and full seam taping to keep rain out. Breathable and easy to pack, this colorful option adds a pop of color to otherwise neutral outfits.

Size available: Women’s XS–4XL
In addition to being waterproof, this affordable Outdoor Ventures fleece-lined jacket maintains its breathability, making it ideal for trips to places like Banff, where you might be hiking, dining, and shopping all in the same weekend. Since it’s a windbreaker, it can easily fold or roll up to be stored in your carry-on. However, I recommend wearing it to the airport as it’s versatile, comfortable, and pairs well with casual wear.

Sizes available: Men’s XS–XL

Workwear jackets are great travel jackets because of their warmth-to-weight ratio. This twill shirt jacket from Banana Republic can be worn over a T-shirt or hoodie, and is ideal for outdoor social events. The cotton twill makes the jacket surprisingly comfortable while maintaining its rugged finish. With a standard fit, you can pack its front pockets subtly with accessories while maintaining a relaxed silhouette. Consider this one ideal for a city-focused, backpack-only weekend trip.

Sizes available: Men’s XS–XL
Inspired by his love of New York, Todd Snyder’s designs blend rugged workwear with timeless simplicity. The canvas material on this chore coat makes it a fairly lightweight addition to your carry-on. One customer noted that the coat breaks in fast, making it feel like an invisible layer with a high warmth-to-weight ratio. With a warm yet refined look, this piece is a go-to option that pairs well with tan or brown boots, dark jeans, or black trousers.

Sizes available: Men’s S–XL

When it comes to menswear in particular, barn jackets create a polished finishing touch on rugged looks. The Barn Jacket by Everlane earns points for its ability to block out wind and cold temperatures. With corduroy on the collar and cuffs, this jacket maintains a relaxed look. Make sure to order true to size as it runs large—plus you’ll want to layer this jacket on top of sweaters and hoodies. I am pro taking travel wardrobe risks even with the basics this year, but if the birch color is too bold for your taste, pivot to black or fennel seed (tan).

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–2XL; men’s XS–2XL

It’s no secret that Arc’teryx is having a moment—with a portfolio of sleek and functional outerwear, Arc’teryx is a go-to for outdoors-loving travelers. The Beta SL jacket is a bestseller thanks to its waterproof and windproof shell, helmet-compatible hood, and Reeco reflector which helps with visibility at night. Hike with it in the Azores, layer it for skiing, or wear it on a biking trip in the backcountry. All the better to buy it as a travel gift for an adventurous yet minimalist traveler who’s not one to compromise on quality.

Sizes available: Women’s 0–14

This Lululemon Always Effortless jacket couldn’t have a more apt name. Snag it in light ivory or black to ensure it’s a staple in your capsule wardrobe. It’s a jacket that ensures you’ll be the best dressed in casual settings: It’s classy for hiking, well-defined for breakfast runs, and polished at the airport. Waterproof and windproof, it’s great in rainy climates. (Past customers recommend sizing up.)

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–XL
Aritzia’s description of this full-zip jacket gets right to the point: “Speed walk, anyone?” The Aritzia Butter Distance Waist zip-up is ideal for canyon hikes, dry climates, and any shoulder season escape where it’s sunny yet chilly. The jacket folds up small enough to be included in a backpack-only packing list for short weekend trips as well. You can pair it with either the matching Hi-Rise 5″ short or a pair of neutral leggings. The ultralight, buttery soft sweat-wicking fabric makes it a go-to for hotel tennis matches, city runs, and outdoor yoga classes.

Sizes available: Men’s S–2XL
Slightly heavier than a traditional bomber jacket, the Vince Ripstop jacket is lightly padded with Italian cotton. It’s ideal for days spent somewhere like Nantucket, where you might go shopping along cobblestone streets, walk down to Jetties Beach, and dine at Cru all by 6 p.m. The jacket fits true to size, so there’s no need to size up, even if you plan to layer. For a comfortable all-day outfit, pack it with the Vuori Cascade Tech chino pants.

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–XL

In a digital sea of denim options, it’s the stitching on this one that makes it one of our favorite packable jackets. Despite its relaxed fit, the design of the front pockets give this jacket structure, making it a versatile choice for both day trips and a night of impromptu plans. Even better, it comes from Everlane, a brand that prioritizes sustainability and transparency (check out the pricing outline at the bottom of each product page). (Pro tip: If you’re really short on packing space, jean jackets are a great option to wear on the plane, freeing up room inside your suitcase for a rain jacket or other lightweight coat—or, for more clothes or shoes.)

Sizes available: Women’s XS–XL

We know everyone won’t stop talking about Quince, but hear us out: It really delivers on its mission of proving you don’t have to overspend on basics. Consider this foldable Oversized Denim jacket to be the perfect supplemental product on our list—it might not be the one you wear day after day, but it’s a worthy addition if you’re planning to pack an extra in your carry-on.

Sizes available: Men’s XS–2XL

Yup, this is another shopping roundup suggesting the Levi’s Trucker jacket. I admit: Levi’s promotion that the jacket “gets better over time with natural fading, stains, and holes” usually wouldn’t sell me. However, for travel we make–and embrace–that exception. Imagine wearing it on a moped in Greece, in the Sahara desert, or out west. Now that you’ve got the visual, buy the jacket in dark wash or black, pair it with cowboy boots, and book a trip to wear it on already.

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–XL

The Esquire trench coat by Aritzia stands out for its detailed design. Content creator Kalila Craig paired the trench with a white sweat set, highlighting the jacket’s versatility. “I’m happy that I sized up with a medium because it fits over so many different layers,” said Craig on TikTok. With its water-resistant fabric, the trench is a shoulder season staple that can be packed in your carry-on or worn as a layering piece to the airport. If you don’t plan to layer it over bulkier sweaters, you may want to size down, as customers noted that the jacket runs large.

Sizes available: Women’s XS–2XL

Oversized leather jackets can feel like a commitment; it’s often not the only jacket you want to bring with you on a trip. That’s why you want one that’s lightweight enough to make room for other staples. It’s a good option for those looking to forgo real leather, and reviews mention that the jacket’s material is dense and finely textured, giving it a vintage feel. It’s a versatile jacket to wear around a city, especially if you’re looking to go purse-free. “The pockets are a great size for my wallet and phone where I’m not scared that they will fall out when I’m walking around,” says reviewer Shruti Sharma. While the jacket is meant to be oversized, some reviewers recommend ordering down a size. If you want to go beyond basic black, this piece is also available in brown and red, which can style well with turtlenecks, dark jeans, and tank tops.