13 Packable Jackets That Will Fit in Your Carry-On

Packing jackets can be a tricky business. They take up valuable suitcase space, which means you can usually only afford to pack one or two per trip. The ones you do choose need to be versatile enough for whatever is on your itinerary, whether that’s dinner in town or a city walking tour. The best packable jackets are also insulated enough to keep you warm without being so bulky that they take up all the room in your bag.

Source: media.cntraveler.com

After years of testing dozens of options on my travels—from downpours in Vietnam to hiking past waterfalls in Iceland and night outs in New York City—I can confirm there are at least a few good ones out there.

Source: media.cntraveler.com

Whether you need an insulated puffer, a rain coat, or a dressier day-to-evening jacket, there’s a lightweight option below that will keep you warm and dry this season. Even better, some of the best packable jackets fold down into their own carrying case.

Source: media.cntraveler.com

Puffer Jackets

Puffer jackets are a staple in any traveler’s wardrobe. They’re lightweight, insulated, and packable, making them perfect for carrying on a plane or stuffing into a backpack. Here are a few of our favorite puffer jackets:

• FP Movement Pippa Packable Puffer Jacket

  This boxy puffer from FP Movement 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. “It’s my go-to jacket for fall and spring travel,” says Kenny. “I love it so much that I even bought it as a Christmas gift for my sister who is always outdoors hiking and walking her dog.”

  Material: 100% nylon with PrimaLoft insulation

  Folds into itself? Yes

• Amazon Essentials Lightweight Water-Resistant Puffer Coat

  This under-$50 Amazon puffer gets surprisingly compact when compressed into its own case. It’s longer than other packable jackets on this list, providing extra warmth and insulation when you need it most. And if you’re like me, it’ll come in handy in frigid locations when you need protection from wind and light rain.

  Weight: 8 oz.

  Material: Nylon

  Folds into itself? Yes

• Pufftech Jacket

  This airy, water-repellent puffer is downright cloud-like thanks to the brand’s signature Pufftech technology that traps air to keep you warm. Perfect for transitional weather in shoulder season, this is a must-pack for unpredictable climates.

  Weight: 10.5 oz.

  Material: 100% nylon with a polyester filling

  Folds into itself? Yes

Rain Jackets

Rain jackets are a must-have for any traveler, especially those who plan on exploring rainy cities or hiking in wet climates. Here are a few of our favorite rain jackets:

• Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket

  Three layers of waterproof protection make this windproof shell a smart choice for rainy travel days. It’s a reliable option for outdoor hikes in wet climates like Iceland and Seattle, and I love that it has armpit zips to provide ventilation. Other standout features include an adjustable hood with a visor, hand-warmer pockets, and a micro-fleece lined neck to keep you warm.

  Weight: 12.4 oz.

  Material: 100% recycled nylon with a durable water-repellent finish

  Folds into itself? Yes

Athletic Jackets

Athletic jackets are perfect for travelers who plan on engaging in physical activities like hiking, running, or yoga. They’re usually lightweight, breathable, and packable, making them easy to stuff into a backpack or carry on a plane. Here are a few of our favorite athletic jackets:

• Houdini Jacket

  This thin, water-repellent shell named the Houdini can indeed perform a vanishing act—it packs up so small that you can make it disappear into a pocket or a purse. And at a mere 3.4 ounces, it doesn’t get much lighter than this.

  Weight: 3.4 oz.

  Material: Ripstop nylon

  Folds into itself? Yes

Day-to-Night Jackets

Day-to-night jackets are perfect for travelers who plan on exploring cities and need a jacket that can transition from day to night. They’re usually dressier than athletic jackets but still packable and lightweight. Here are a few of our favorite day-to-night jackets:

• Always Effortless Jacket Evolve

  It’s easy to see why Lululemon calls this style the Always Effortless jacket. Its versatility ensures you’re covered in all kinds of conditions thanks to a stowable hood, windproof and water-resistant material that keep you protected from wind and drizzle, a ventilated back that keeps things breezy, and UV protection to shield you from harmful sun rays.

  Weight: 1 lb.

  Material: 100% nylon with a polyester lining

  Folds into itself? No

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting to plan your next adventure, these packable jackets are sure to be a game-changer. They’re lightweight, insulated, and packable, making them perfect for carrying on a plane or stuffing into a backpack. And with so many great options out there, you’re sure to find the perfect jacket for your next adventure.