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The 17 Best Men’s Travel Shirts for Style, Comfort, and Adventure

As much as I hate to admit it, the perfect men’s travel shirt doesn’t exist.  You might find comfortable travel shirts that look good – but those same “perfect travel shirts” may be too delicate to adventure hard in, dry too slowly, and get destroyed when you drop it off at a Southeast Asian laundry kiosk. On the other hand, a shirt may dry quickly and withstand a beating but be a little too ugly to be your only shirt. So what’s the solution?

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

The solution to the “perfect travel shirt” problem is to strategically pick a few shirts for your travels with a dedicated shirt for looking good, a few shirts for adventuring and wandering hard, and an all-purpose shirt that sits somewhere in between – and I think I’ve mastered this compromise.

Read on to discover my favorite shirts for traveling, adventuring, and still looking good along the way

rei travel shirt

CONTENTS OF THIS GUIDE TO THE BEST MEN’S TRAVEL SHIRTS

  • My optimal travel shirt setup
  • What to look for in a Good Travel Shirt Based on Your Travels
  • Technical Flannel Shirts
  • Travel Ready Dress Shirts
  • Short Sleeve Oxfords
  • Denim Travel Shirts
  • Hawaiian Shirts
  • My Favorite Travel Jacket: The Bluffworks Field Jacket

THE OPTIMAL SHIRT SETUP FOR TRAVEL

If you want your packing list to be ready for anything, pack the following shirts in addition to some travel-ready pants and travel-worthy shoes :

  • One shirt for looking good and going out – a versatile button down shirt, ideally short sleeve oxford that is sweat wicking and wrinkle free or a denim shirt
  • One shirt that doubles as a warmth layer but can be worn anywhere – I’m a fan of lightweight, technical flannel shirts
  • Three or more travel friendly t-shits –a mix of short sleeves, V-necks, and Henleys made of wool, synthetic materials (polyester), or a proven active wear blend to dry quickly and resist funk

If you stick to these three options, you’ll keep your bags light while still being ready for any occasion or adventure.  Read on to discover my favorite options for Men’s travel shirts.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A GREAT TRAVEL SHIRT

Keep in mind that though a shirt might be branded as a great “travel shirt” it still may be over kill (or inadequate) for your travels.  To pick the right travel shirt, that will keep you comfortable, looking good, and smelling good through whatever travels you have in store, think heavily about your destination and consider these points in your potential shirts…

What is the right style for your travels (if any) based on the destination if any?

What materials are best (polyester, wool, or an active wear cotton blend), durability: how hard will your adventures be on these shirts.

  • Versatility: What situations will you need to dress for?

Smell and dirt resistance: How often will you be able to shower and do laundry?

If you’re going to Europe, having a nice short sleeve button down is highly recommended.  If you’re going to Southeast Asia, don’t even think about taking any long sleeve shirts.

If you’re doing the Banana Pancake Trail (Thailandà Laosà Vietnamà Cambodia) and the most you’ll do is a pub crawl, ditch the fancy stuff

My 11 Favorite Travel Shirts to Adventure Hard & Look Good

And if you’re heading to Bali, plan on beachwear and your “nice clothes” being shorts and a nice short sleeve shirt.

In any case, think about the situations you’ll be in and the style required (or not required) to avoid extra clothing.  Here’s a quick cheat list to help

  • Southeast Asia: You’ll be in sandals and shorts the entire time.  No long sleeves.
  • South America: It may get chilly and adventurous, especially if you’re going to Patagonia, so a long sleeve flannel, an “island-ish” short sleeve button down, and plenty of Merino Wool/Quick Dry t-shirts will do you well.  Also, bring a set of nice clothes – as Buenos Aires, Rio, Cusco, and Medellin have some amazing nightlife
  • Europe: You’ll only need one or two “adventurous” pairs of clothes at most (unless you’re trekking).  Dress for the seasons as  winter in Europe is vastly different than summer
  • Middle East: Dress conservatively and plan for the deserts to be hot by day and cold by night. You’ll be surprised how far a wool t-shirt and flannel button-down will take you here.
  • North America: Dress for the seasons and for specific locations.  We’re all across the board in the US and Canadialand.
  • Central America: No long sleeves.  Plan to exist completely in shorts and sandals.

If you can afford it, wool is the most amazing material for shirts .  ( Read about how I decided to wear a wool shirt for a week straight to test the idea).  They resist funk, still keep you warm when wet, and dry quickly.  The only downside is these shirts will breakdown quicker than polyester – especial if you’re using an industrial washer.

Polyester/synthetic shirts are an excellent, cheap option, especially for hard adventuring.  You can purchase them at target for ~$10 or less and they stand up to heavy abuse.  Along the way, they dry quickly and insulate when wet. The downside is they don’t resist funk too well.  Personally, I always hike and travel (by bus, train, and plane) in synthetic shirts because they’re so cheap I don’t care if they get destroyed.  I recommend picking up at least a couple synthetic t-shirts for routine wear in hard conditions.

Cotton: Limit how much of your wardrobe is cotton.  Depending on how often you’re getting wet and how often you wash, cotton can be fine or can be a complete pain.  On the upside, some cotton shirts look good, they’re extremely durable, and they can stand to go a good amount of time between washes in a pinch (denim, not necessarily t-shirts). The only options I consider in cotton are Short sleeve button downs which class up very well, and denim shirts which are super durable, look good, and are a great protect layer for light adventures (like motorbiking in Asia .

The only upside of cotton is that it is much tougher than wool and polyester, with good abrasion resistance and actually gets better with wear.  This is why my denim shirt was my shirt of choice to wear during my motorbike ride through Vietnam , to save a little skin just in case I fell.  All the while, it still looked good enough for the bars.

My 11 Favorite Travel Shirts to Adventure Hard & Look Good

If you’re in Europe and (should be) showering everyday and have laundry nearby, materials and worrying about getting smelly shouldn’t be too much of an issue.

On the other hand, if you’re moving super quickly through humid Southeast Asia or adventuring through South America and can only wash ever week and a half, do yourself a favor and get shirts made of technical materials (wool, polyester, etc.) that wick sweat, resist odor, and do more to keep you dry.

Now that you know what to look for in a travel shirt, let’s take a closer look at your options

THE BEST MEN’S TRAVEL SHIRTS

  • T-Shirts (Wool, Polyester, and active wear blends – timeless, simple, near perfect travel shirts)
  • Technical Flannel Shirts (every traveler should have one)
  • Wrinkle Free Dress Shirts (great for looking good anywhere)
  • Short Sleeve Oxfords (great for looking good anywhere)
  • Denim travel shirts (the “all-arounder” and travel shirt underdog)
  • Hawaiian Shirts (for Beachy Travel)

BEST T-SHIRTS FOR TRAVEL

(wool, polyester, and active wear blends).

As unexciting as it sounds, t-shirts are by far the best travel shirt option. They’ve been around for ages, worn in every activity, and performed well while staying stylish every step of the way.  If you take only one type of shirt traveling, stick to t-shirts.

In terms of style, you can’t go wrong with a well fitting t-shirt.

The small packing foot print of t-shirts makes them easy to pack and wash, lightening your load and making life easier.

My 11 Favorite Travel Shirts to Adventure Hard & Look Good

Some might insist that t-shirts are too boring to wear for a year straight.  I disagree.

To stay looking good (and not get bored), avoid traditional crew neck t-shirts and light V-neck and Henley shirts in dark colors (grey, burgundy, darker blue, black).

For material, invest in at least two wool shirts and grab two cheaper synthetic shirts. 

I have been very satisfied with Wooly’s merino wool t-shirts, Bluffworks’ synthetic travel t shirt, Outlier’s insanely great Ultrafine Merino shirt, and a handful of others I’ve tested and highly recommend below. 

For active wear synthetic shirts, my go to is actually the Hylete Icon-2 performance Henley, designed as gym wear but looks so great I wear it on nights out. For a Target’s G9 Champion brand shirts which are comparable in quality, function, and style to Lulu Lemon’s men’s line and quite a few of Nike’s pieces, but available for ~$10 to $20 for us budget travelers .  

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves…read on for the 17 best travel t-shirts for men, and you’ll definitely find the perfect gear for your upcoming travels.

My Favorite T-Shirts for Travel

1. bluffworks threshold tee.

rei travel shirt

This amazing t-shirt was obsessively designed specifically for travel. If you’re trying to keep your bags light by getting a shirt that you can wear over and over (without washing) in a variety of conditions, the Bluffworks Threshold T is a perfect candidate.

High breathability, great odor resistance, and a feel softer than cotton make this a great shirt to wear. A unique synthetic blend keeps this shirt super light while drying quickly and making hand washes and line drying possible for “one bag” travelers”

Where to buy: Click to see more colors at Bluffworks Online

2. THE OUTLIER ULTRAFINE MERINO T SHIRT

rei travel shirt

This is insanely soft yet comfortable and durable shirt is absolutely the best wool shirt I have ever owned.

Made of 100% extremely fine Merino wool, this shirt naturally resists odor (I’ve worn the shirt for a week straight to test), dries quickly, and does a wonderful job keeping me cool even in tropical climates.

The construction is top notch, very durable and cut with a just slim enough and stylish fit. With 2 or 3 of these shirts, a traveler could easily wander the world with these as their only shirts.

Where to buy: Click to see more colors Outlier Online

3. THE HYLETE ICON HENLEY

rei travel shirt

The Hylete Icon 2 Henley is a perfect blend of style and function that fits daily life, adventure, and travel equally. The quad blend performance fabric (that is stretchy, odor resisting, and quick drying) and design are actually intended as hard core exercise that can be worn in everyday life. With the classic Henley stylish three button front, this dresses up nicely with Chinos and a blazer or will simply keep you looking good on long treks.

From the cool highlands of the Himilayas to the warm days and posh night clubs of Bali, this Hylete Henley has been a favorite piece of apparel in my pack and will continue to be. I highly recommend this affordable yet stylish piece of performance gear for your travels

Where to buy: Click to see more colors available at Hylete Online.

4. WOOLY CLOTHING

My 11 Favorite Travel Shirts to Adventure Hard & Look Good | ABrotherAbroad.com

Woolly Clothing offers great wool clothing direct to you, which means its cheaper than many other options.  I own a few of their shirts (a V-neck and a Henley) and wholeheartedly vouch for the.  Great style.  Great performance

Where to buy: Check out the selection of Woolly Clothing on Amazon

5. C-9 CHAMPION TEES

rei travel shirt

Champion C9 is Target’s in house attempt to compete with active wear giants like Nike and Lulelemon for the men’s athletic wear market.  The result is great gym wear that wears beyond the gym for a great price.  I always load up on a few of these shirts for upcoming travels whenever I’m in the US.

Where to buy: $12.99 at Target

6. H&M ACTIVE WEAR V-NECKS

rei travel shirt

Though these shirts somewhat break my rule of avoiding cotton, the 95% cotton/5% Elastene blend works extremely well.  Not only do these shirts fit well and maintain that fit, they dry much quicker than normal cotton shirts and resist funk pretty well too.  I tested these shirts against high dollar “performance cotton” shirts from other brands (think $60-$80 per shirt) and the H&M slim fit shirts performed much better.

If you’re ever traveling and in a pinch need some shirts anywhere in the world, just drop by an H&M and pick these up. 

Where to buy: $24.99 for 3 at H&M Online

7. RIDGE MERINO JOURNEY TEE

rei travel shirt

The Ridge Merino Journey tee is an awesome, travel-ready wool tee-shirt design for durability, hard use, and quick-drying comfort while still fighting funk. This Merino Wool shirt combines 13% nylon into the fabric, making it twice as durable as your average, 100% Merino wool t-shirt. The result is a high performing wool t-shirt that you can abuse for years.

I’ve carried my Ridge Merino Journey tee shirt for just over 2 years of travel and worn it for a week straight without washing, and the anti-microbial nature of the wool keeps me smelling fresh. Hard use of trekking, hand washing, and abrasion from backpacks hasn’t damaged the shirt at all over the two years, proving this is one tough t-shirt

If you’re looking for a single, comfortable t-shirt that looks good and is adventure ready, check out the Ridge Merino Journey t-shirt.

Where to buy: Click to see availability at Ridge Merino online

TECHNICAL FLANNEL SHIRTS

A single technical flannel shirt is a priceless addition to the traveler wardrobe.  Wool flannel shirts are great (I have a Pendleton Board Shirt that I love) and there are plenty of other synthetic “technical flannel” shirts combine nylon and polyester to be just as warm, more durable, and are much lighter and easier to pack.

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

Additionally, the right flannel shirts can add a touch of style if you pick the right one.  My current flannel works in nearly any occasion, and my Uniqlo Oxford Travel shirt works in the rest of those classy sitauations.

I tested Eddie Bauer’s Traveler Flannel Shirt and fell in love (you’ll see pictures all over the site of me in it) and purchased 3 while it was on sale.  Plus, there are several other options for travel ready technical flannel shirts– read on to discover my picks

MY FAVORITE FLANNEL SHIRTS FOR TRAVEL

8. eddie bauer technical flannel.

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

A flannel shirt crafted perfectly for travelers.  Lightweight polyester and “FreeDry” technology insulates like a jacket when cold but wicks moisture and breathes to keep you cool and dry in the heat.  The fit on this shirt is more classic, giving you room to move make it great for exploring the outdoors and getting active.  The cuff accent colors offer a great touch too.

I’ve toted this shirt around for the last year, love it, and can’t recommend it enough.

Where to buy: From $35 to $70 at Eddie Bauer Online

9. THE PENDLETON BOARD SHIRT

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

The Pendleton Board shirt, originally rocked by surfers in the 60’s is a classic that goes anywhere, and being 100% virgin wool is extremely functional too.  It stays warm through the cold and the rain and still breathes in the heat.  I’ve worn mine around more campfires and in more national parks than I can remember – and with good reason.  Better yet, I can wear it right into the city and no one is the wiser.

A timeless shirt that you’ll literally be able to wear forever

Where to buy: $135 at Pendleton.com

10. ICEBREAKER LODGE SHIRT

My 11 Favorite Travel Shirts to Adventure Hard & Look Good | ABrotherAbroad.com

Icebreaker’s new take on a classic.  100% Merino Wool, this shirt is as technical as it gets, performing in the outdoors (and traveling) while still looking good enough for city life. 

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

The Merino wool fights odor and stays warm throughout.  Pair with a Merino wool t-shirt for best results

Where to buy: $135 at REI online

TRAVEL READY DRESS SHIRTS

Most commonly labeled “easy care” and targeting business travelers, these shirts are a perfect “dress up” shirt for travelers.  They are usually sweat wicking, breathable, and wrinkle free but have the cut of a nicer button down Oxford.

Best yet, good options can be had for very cheap through Uniqlo and H&M and even better options can be found through Bluffworks that cost a bit more but are well worth the money.

One of my two current “dress up” shirts is actually a Uniqlo easy care oxford that I wore through the cold season of Europe and then came to Asia, chopped of the sleeves and had it sewn for ~$5, and now wear as my island shirt.  But there are plenty of shirts that you won’t have to chop in order to look good.  Read on for my faves.

11 . WESTERN RISE AIRLIGHT BUTTON DOWN

rei travel shirt

This high tech, travel focused, easy care button down gives you the style of a dress shirt and the durability/easy care you need for travel.

49% Nylon added to the fabric delivers abrasion resistance and easy care properties that make a good shirt to tuck in the bottom of your bag or bring as your only shirt.

Finally, the slim and stylish fit make this shirt perfect for daily wear and long term “one bag” travel just as much as outdoor adventures.

Where to buy: $109 at Western Rise | Click here to check available colors

12. UNIQLO EASY CARE DRESS SHIRT

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

If you’re on a budget and still need to look good during your travels, Uniqlo’s easy care dress shirts are a great option.  The technical materials breathe, wick sweat, and resist wrinkles so you can wear them longer without caring. I wore one of these through Europe and then chopped of the sleeves to make it my casual island shirt…worked like a charm!

Where to buy: $29.90 at Uniqlo.com

13 . BLUFFWORKS MEDIAN TRAVEL SHIRT

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

A completely “technical” dress shirt, blending 98% polyester and 2% spandex gives the sweat wicking, anti-microbial qualities so you can wear longer, along with wrinkle resisting qualities and freedom of movement so you can stay comfortable along the way.  If you need to “class up” on the road, the Bluffworks Meridian dress shirt is a safe bet.

Where to buy: $98 at Bluffworks

SHORT SLEEVE OXFORD SHIRTS

Though these commonly break the travel rule of “no cotton”, they actually manage to work very well.

My 11 Favorite Travel Shirts to Adventure Hard & Look Good | ABrotherAbroad.com

First, the airflow you get from a button prevents you from sweating all over it and getting it completely nasty

Second, most people only wear button down shirts when lounging, so you get away with washing it infrequently.

Third, these shirts are always quite durable and can actually go a little longer without a wash than your common cotton t-shirt. 

Last, these are a classic style staple that can be had for cheap and worn with a bit of versatility.  My go to spot is the Gap – as the shirts always have a classic cut, have a more timeless design (fits just as well in the 1970’s as now and can be worn anywhere in the world), and you can always pay $5 to have the shirt tailored and the fit improved later on.

14. GAP OXFORD SHORT SLEEVE SHIRT

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

A classic shirt made simply and durably make this another one of my go-to shirts when traveling.  The construction is surprisingly good meaning it will work on hikes and in active situations if you feel like pushing it.  Though this shirt is cotton, it breathes well enough to avoid funk for longer than your active t-shirt.  Beyond the adventures, it looks good enough for most any situation.

Where to buy: Starting at $35 at Gap online

MY FAVORITE DENIM SHIRTS FOR TRAVEL

Denim shirts are the unsung hero of travel shirts.  There is a reason that Levis Strauss made his “can’t bust ‘em” gear for goldmining rough necks out of cotton denim – because it works.  Denim shirts are a great all around travel shirt that sits side by side with the technical flannel.

rei travel shirt

Granted, these denim shirts don’t insulate as well, suck when wet, and take forever to dry, but they look better than flannel and are better if you’re in a situation where you might get thrown around and need an extra layer of skin – like riding a motorbike anywhere in Southeast Asia. Plus, the denim shirt looks good.

A travel tip I got from my buddy “Dr. Strangelove” and his Spanish friends was to actually carry a denim button down on adventures to throw on for nice pics – instead of wearing that sweaty hiking shirt.  That’s actually excellent advice – but I’m a touch too apathetic to execute.

So, if you want a good all-around shirt, that looks good, and you won’t be getting too wet or sweaty, consider the denim shirt.

15. GAP DENIM SHIRTS

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

Classic cut and fit and constructed well enough to last through your travels.  I have a couple Gap denim shirts that I’ve worn for years and countless countries, and they keep getting better with age.  They’re durable and look good too.

Where to buy: From $40 at Gap

16. THE ORIGINAL: LEVI’S DENIM SHIRT

A List of the Best Men's Travel Shirts - By A Brother Abroad

Levi Strauss did something right with his first couple of creations, cementing “denim” as a style staple.  If you’re going to pick up a denim shirt, you can’t go wrong with the original – Levi’s

Where to buy: Levis.com

HAWAIIAN SHIRTS

Though you wouldn’t expect to see it on this list, if you are venturing to hot or humid climates, Hawaiian shirts are an excellent option.  For one, they’re fun.  People may judge you, but those who don’t will automatically assume you’re fun.

Second, they’re traditional Hawaiian shirts for a reason.  They’re great in the heat and allow just enough breeze while blocking the sun.  They’re also perfect for when you’ve just gotten out of the water.  So, if you’re heading to the islands, consider having some fun and making a Hawaiian shirt your shirt of choice.

Where should you buy these?  Honestly…nowhere in the US.  Buy one on the road as a souvenir.  You can have a custom one made in Southeast Asia for cheap or buy the Balinese version (with real coconut buttons) when you’re in the area.

17. BONUS: THE ONLY JACKET YOU NEED FOR TRAVEL – THE BLUFFWORKS FIELD JACKET

So, you have your perfect travel shirt setup and now need something to layer over it to stay dry, warm, and stylish…what do you choose?

There are literally thousands of options to choose from, between waterproof puffy down jackets, to rainproof shells, but my travels have led me to…exactly one.

The Bluffworks Field Jacket .

This waterproof, windproof take on the classic M-65 military issue field jacket combines the best of style and function that travelers need.

Top of your torso by checking out this Bluffworks Field Jacket Review for full details and even better pictures…

Now that you have the top half of your wardrobe for travel worked out, what’s next?  Clearly you should figure out the best pair of bottoms for your trip by checking out the 15 best travel pants for men and the 5 best travel shorts for men followed closely by my 8 favorite travel shoes for men to create your perfect travel rig.

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Discover the 10 best men's travel shirts for every type of travel | Outdoor and Travel Gear for Men | Men's Fashion | Men's Travel Shirts for Adventure, Europe, and Casual Wear

Other Great Travel Gear  Content:

  • The 8 Best Travel Shoes for Men
  • 5 Great Men’s Travel Shorts
  • The Best Travel Pants for Men
  • My Carry on Packing List

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

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Home » Gear » Packing The BEST Travel Clothes For Any Trip – UPDATED 2024

Packing The BEST Travel Clothes For Any Trip – UPDATED 2024

If you close your eyes and try to imagine what a traveler or backpacker looks like, what do you see? Is it a young, pale man dressed head to toe in khaki colored outdoor wear (or geography teacher chic) or is it a sun-kissed, dreadlocked hippy chick in elephant pants and strappy vest? Both of the above? None of the above?

Anyway, for a long time I also had a pretty narrow definition of traveler dress sense and kind of put backpackers into either the badly dressed or the barely dressed category. But, it really doesn’t need to be this way! Backpacker chic and travel clothes can actually be stylish and practical.

Choosing the right clothes to take travelling can actually be pretty tough. You need to make sure you have the right clobber to wear for all occasions but at the same time you want to try and pack as lightly as possible. And of course, more often than that the “normal person” clothes you wear in your day to day life back home simply won’t cut it. To be fair, you would be forgiven for thinking that you need to bear a whole new wardrobe or (at least suitcase) of threads before you hit the road.

Right then, let’s have a look and see if we can find the perfect travel clothes for your next trip!

rei travel shirt

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Choosing The Right Travel Clothes

Ok, so, what are the best travel clothes? Well before we give you our list we want to give you some rational first!

There are a few golden rules to finding travel clothes to take on any trip.

The first thing is to try and find items of travel clothing that are versatile and can be worn in a variety of situations. For me, the best traveling clothes are those that perform multiple tasks in one!

Examples of this include the humble vest – it can be worn to the beach in all its glory, it can be worn under a shirt on a night on the tiles, and it can be used as a base layer when things get a bit nippy. Other examples are dark coloured, zip-to-shorts trekking pants – you can wear them to trek, they can *almost* pass for smart, and you can zip them down to shorts and show off your calves. You get the concept right?

rei travel shirt

The next tip is to pay attention to materials and fabrics . You may be forced to wear your items more than you usually would and washing them may be a struggle. Therefore, look for fabrics that are quick drying so you can cheekily wash them in a hurry, and also look for anti-odour technology in case you end up having to wear the same socks for days on end. Anti-crease fabrics that don’t need to be ironed are also pretty useful too.

Look for light, compact items as much as possible. Jeans will only roll up so much but linen pants will squeeze into even a backpacks side pocket. If you need to pack a winter jacket , then consider investing in a specialist item such as Rab Goose Down. They pack in some serious warmth but pack down so that it will even fit inside a daypack – of course, such hi-tech gear does come with a hefty price tag.

All The Travel Clothes You Will Ever Need

Now let’s get down to specifics. Use this post for ideas, inspiration and also a checklist to help you pack for your trip.

It’s worth keeping travel clothes with sustainability in mind, too. You probably already own some of these clothes but others, you may not.

So, let’s get into the action! Well, sort of, before we get into the list of the best travel clothes, let’s have a look at some bags first.

rei travel shirt

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

Nomatic 40L Travel Pack

Firstly, all of these lovely new travel clothes you’re about to buy are gonna need a bag to live inside right? Maybe you already have your luggage sorted but if you don’t, then we recommend checking out the Nomatic Travel Pack.

nomatic backpack black

With the Nomatic, You get loads of space with its roomy 40L interior plus plenty of smart pockets and compartments that let you pack in so much more than you would expect. There are separate compartments for tech accessories, shoes, a water bottle, underwear and socks. Oh, it also comes with a hanging mesh laundry basket to keep your dirty travel clothes away from the rest of your contents.

The team really love these Nomatic bags and have found them to be super comfortable and offer a great amount of room for how compact they feel. The 40l of storage offered them a sweet spot between being able to fit in everything needed for a backpacking trip whilst still being small enough for carry-on travel. They also love the robust material as well as the levels or internal organisation.

If you want to know, you can read our Nomatic Travel Pack review or instead just check it out on the Nomatic site.

Osprey Daylite

Whilst the Nomatic is the ideal luggage option, it is way too big to use as a daypack. The Osprey Daylite on the other hand, is perhaps the perfect daypack. At 18 liters, it’s the perfect size for trips to the beach, city tours or day hikes mixing decent storage capacity with lightness.

Osprey Daylite Plus

There are plenty of internal pockets and pouches designed to hold keys, phones or even cigarettes as well as a quick access side pocket for water bottles. At $65, it’s a bit of a bargain and comes with the Osprey All Mighty Guarantee.

Aesthetically, the daylite is also pretty easy on the eye and can be worn in both outdoor and urban settings. 

For the team members wanting a versatile and comfortable bag for everyday use, the Daylite offered the perfect solution. They love that this bag is lightweight, looks cool and offers something that works well for city travel as well as hiking. They also felt it was a great size for packing in day to day essentials without getting too heavy and the panelling on the shoulders and back are great for warm weather conditions.

Kodiak Leather Purse

This one is primarily for the ladies (although no one’s judging anybody here) who want a decent travel purse. Made from lush leather, this beautiful, stylish day purse is another high quality bag from Kodiak who have become one of our favorite brands of late.

rei travel shirt

This purse is ideal to use as an airport bag and will fit your passport and travel documents perfectly. It’s also great to use as a dressed-up bag to take on nights out whether it’s a slap-up meal, cocktails or a full-blown beach party.

Of course, this is not really that useful as a daypack if you’re going hiking or if you have a lot of stuff to carry. However, the trick to successful travel packing is to pack plenty of practical items and a few luxury items for “best” use.

Many of our team love to keep their most valuable items close by, especially when transiting. Having an additional purse means things like passports, wallets and even hard drives and compact cameras can be kept on the body whilst on a night bus or plane ride. They also love that this doubles as a going out back ticking that all-important box of versatility!

When packing travel clothes, our tip is to bring vests, vests and more vests. Vests are such a wonderfully versatile item – you can wear them in all their glory (and show those guns off), “dress them up” by putting an open shirt over them or you simply use them as a base layer in case of cold nights. Oh, and they are ideal for sleeping in!

You can get vests pretty much anyway. Most high-street fashion chains offer vests for around $10 per pop or even x 2 for $12. Or, you can buy nice, pretty ones with art prints or psychedelic designs on them.

I usually make sure I bring at least one specialist outdoor vest made from breathable, quick-drying, odour-resistant fabric too.

What can I say, our team are a sexy bunch and they love to get those guns out! Who can blame them?

Technical T-Shirts

You already have t-shirts right? I don’t need to tell you why these are necessary or where to buy them. All I will say is avoid heavy fabrics and avoid t-shirts that are tight otherwise you will sweat your armpits off the very minute you step out of the plane.

rei travel shirt

One tip is to bring at least one sports-style t-shirt whether it’s a football (soccer) shirt or a trekking t-shirt. These are useful as they tend to be breathable and quick drying. This one from Black Diamond is a great example of one of the best travel tops on the market.

Our team really loves these shirts because firstly, they weigh so much less than traditional cotton t-shirts meaning the save on weight. But they also find that they are much more versatile for backpacking trips as they work well for both time spent exploring a new city and hiking in sweaty conditions. The shirts are also good to use a baselayer with a thicker t-shirt for when extra warmth is required and it’s something our team does often.

I usually travel with 1 or 2 shirts, they are definitely good travel clothes for any type of trip. They are a great versatile item as they can be dressed up or dressed down – you can wear them to go for cocktails or to hit the beach. Ideally, try to choose shirts made from light materials and try to choose shirts that look good both buttoned up, and unbuttoned over a vest – this offers you some variety.

Shirt from REI

I usually make a point of wearing a shirt whenever I go to the airport or have any kind of encounter with authority; looking presentable just seems to make them look a bit more favourably on you.

Another tip is to pick up at least one technical, breathable, quick-drying shirt as these come in useful for jungle treks.

As we’ve mentioned above, our team are all about versatility and they just love the many varied uses shirts have. They often tend to prefer long sleeve tops for hiking through jungles and other bug-infested environments and when combined with a technical t-shirt above it gives them a mega adaptable clothing set up.

Tactical Pants

Choosing the right legwear to pack for travels can be quite tough. In my normal life, I usually live in jeans and yet they are often just not suitable to take on my travels. Firstly, denim jeans tend to feel a bit sweaty once the temperature passes 20 degrees (Celsius) and then of course, if you wear jeans to go on a hike they can seriously chafe.

rei travel shirt

This is where tactical, trekking pants come in. They are made from breathable fabrics, tend to be a bit looser in the fit and are therefore perfect for wearing in weather climes. The downside is that they can look a bit nerdy and you may end up feeling out of place in cosmopolitan cities. The trick is to shop around until you find a pair that mixes practicality with a style you are happy with.

Bonus points if you can find a pair that zip off into shorts – it’s like a 2 for 1! There are loads of different brands out there making travel and trekking pants but to get you started, check these out from REI.

Zip-offs might not be the sexiest piece of gear, but our team swear by them. Again, versatility is the name of the game and when hiking in jungles full of god knows what, ya’ll want to protect your legs! Then again, at the end of said hike when you end up on the beach and want to soak your beaten feet, zip those bad boys off and enjoy. Boom! Whose sexy now!?

Shorts – Multiple Pairs

For some strange reason I used to be embarrassed to wear shorts which is weird as my hairy legs are a thing of beauty. Anyway, I am over that hang up now and tend to wear shorts most days when I go traveling.

REi Cargo Shorts

I recommend bringing several pairs of shorts with you. If you have space in your luggage, then go for a pair of “beach”/Bermuda shorts, some more stylish denim/chino shorts as well as a pair of tactical/military cargo shorts with loads of pockets – these are great for trekking, cycling and general adventuring.

If you need some advice on choosing the perfect cargo-style shorts, then start with these from REI. They are water resistant, quick drying and have plenty of pockets making them ideal for backpacking and traveling.

Our team love a good pair of shorts it has to be said. Most of us spend a lot of time in hot weather climates so they’re our day-to-day wear. Our team in particular love these cargo shorts because not only are they below the knee (great for temples etc) but they offer increased functionality when it comes to carrying accessories without the need for a bag.

Harem Pants

Perhaps the quintessential backpacker item, you can’t NOT own a pair of harem pants if you are serious about backpacking! These are great to wear on those hot, tropical nights, for lounging around your hostel and yes, for Yoga class. 

Bohemian Island Blue Blossom Harem Pants

Yes, they are cool travel clothes. However, my advice is NOT to wear them to the airport, when getting visa extensions or for any other encounter with authority – on these occasions, always make some effort to dress a bit smarter.

You can generally find harem pants everywhere in Thailand, India or Ibiza. Or you can check out this rather delectable pair from One Tribe at Amazon.

Fun fact, every single member of our team who has visited Thailand has been spotted walking down Khao San Road in a pair of these bad boys … even if they deny it!

Looking for a way to keep your pants up and keep your money safe?! Well let me introduce to you the money belt!

Pacsafe belt

Money belts are a traveler’s best friend. They are quite simply belts with a hidden pouch where you can discreetly stash bank notes. Travellers are sometimes the targets of both pickpockets and violent muggers and many a wallet has been lost to the ne’er do wells of backpackistan.

Our team never leaves the house without one of these strapped around their waist! They have really gotten them out of some sticky situations in the past when having a hidden, or most commonly, forgotten about until the point of desperation, 100-dollar bill is a life saver!

Protect your cash by investing in this epic money belt .

rei travel shirt

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Rab Lightweight Down Jacket

No matter where in the world you are going, you will need some kind of jacket. Even if you are headed out to the tropics, it can still get cool at night and seriously frigid if you climb any mountains. At the very least, it will be useful to have a jacket with you when you arrive back home in Seattle/London/Paris on a cold morning.

will hatton working on the laptop with mountain backdrop

The kind of jacket you need will depend on where you are going and when. This Down Jacket by Rab is excellent for fending off cold temperatures. Goose down is like magic and will keep you body warm and cosy even in near freezing temperatures. As such, this jacket is ideal for traveling in spring, autumn or if you are headed to the mountains.

It also packs down to a fraction of its size meaning it will sit quietly in your luggage and hardly take up any room at all.

It does have a hood and offers some water resistance in case of rain. However, if you need a proper, full on rain jacket, check out our next suggestion.

Our team always carry a lightweight and compact down jacket on any backpacking trip, even to Southeast Asia! They swear by this Rab jacket as it seems to hit the sweet spot between offering a good level of warmth, especially when layered, whilst being super packable.

Arc’teryx Beta Lt Jacket

When it rains in the tropics, it really rains. Whether you are traveling around India in monsoon, or simply get unlucky in Ecuador, it usually pays to have a proper, waterproof jacket with you when you hit the road.

rei travel shirt

We have tried a fuck ton of water proof jackets over the years and this is by far the best one we have tried. The Arc’teryx Beta weighs just 300 g / 10.6 oz, making it one of the lightest pieces of performance clothing in your backpack – it packs down to the size of a large grapefruit and definitely weighs less than one. It’s fully waterproof and will withstand a hell of a beating from the rain gods whilst you stay dry. 

Arc’teryx gear is also some of the most stylish gear in the outdoor space. It is also, amongst the most expensive gear in the outdoor space too.

Again, the team never leaves the house without a good waterproof jacket and no matter where their trips take them. They’ve tried a bunch of different jackets out over the years but feel the quality of the Arc’teryx Beta combined with its unbeatable weight makes it a winner for backpacking.

Converse All Stars

Choosing the right footwear to pack for your travels is not always straightforward. Shoes are kind of a bulky item in your luggage so you want to bring as few pairs as possible but you also need footwear for a whole number of situations. Whilst many backpackers tend to spend a lot of time wearing flip-flops (thongs) these are most definitely not appropriate for all occasions.

rei travel shirt

Converse All Stars, are a bit of a multi-tool kind of footwear. You can wear them for a night on the town and you can do moderate difficulty treks with them. Because they are made from light canvas material, they are breathable enough to wear even in tropical climes so your feet won’t get too sweaty.

Whether you go for the hi-tops or the regular pump style is a matter of preference – both are good.

Our team love Converse in particular because the canvas upper of the shoe is easily folded over so it takes up hardly any room in their bags. They also like that converse can be worn for everyday travelling but can also look decent enough for a night out too.

Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero Shoes

If you intend on doing some proper trekking or heading to the mountains, then you need to think about bringing some proper technical footwear. Walking boots are (literally) made for walking but they are not always ideal for backpacking as they are big and chunky and can eat up precious room in your luggage. 

Salomon Women's X Ultra 2

Fortunately, these Saloman X walking and hiking shoes offer much of the support and protection of walking boots but are a bit smaller and lighter meaning they will snuggle nicely in your backpack.

For the team they always try to travel with a good pair of walking shoes (not boots) on their trips. This means that they are always prepared should they want to go on a hike. They love the Saloman X in particular as they are light and comfortable to wear walking around a city day to day too and don’t make their backpacks too heavy.

Sandals or OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops

Sandals and flip flops are the preferred travel footwear of many backpackers. They are cheap, airy and easy to kick off when you hit the beach making them the obvious choice for many. They also slot into backpacks very easily taking up hardly any space whatsoever.

OluKai Upena Sandals

However, thongs are not suitable for all occasions. Remember that they offer no protection for your feet and many travelers have stubbed or broken their toes on uneven pavements whilst wearing them. Also, if you wear thongs to ride a motorbike or scooter, please be extra careful where you put your feet.

If you’re wanting a good mix between lightweight and durable, we would suggest you check out Vivobarefoot’s line of boots and shoes . They do a great job of freeing up your feet and being relatively breathable, so if you’re not too keen on sandals, they might be a good option for you.

My advice is to bring a good pair of shoes or sneakers and wear flip-flops only for the beach. You can find flip flops pretty much everywhere but if you want a good pair that won’t fall to pieces after a week, then check out this pair by Olu’kai.

Standard flip flops might be the backpacker sandal of choice, but our team prefer the extra support these offer with their cross-over strapping and adjustable back. It means that if they’re out and about and the terrain does turn a little more challenging, then they can simply summon their inner mountain goat and crack on!

Laundry Wash Bag

Scrubba

At some point your travel clothes will get smelly and dirty. When this happens, try to avoid storing them with your clean clothes as the odours will spread. The solution is simple enough, pack a travel laundry bag – you throw your dirty stuff in it and when it’s full, you take it to the laundry.

You may even want to consider buying a travel wash bag – a water tight, rubber laundry bag which you use to actually wash your clothes inside simply by adding detergent and shaking it about. Obviously the standard of washing you get isn’t the same as what you get from a machine, but it is quick, cheap and very ecological.

Over the years we have sampled many laundry bags and wash bags and this one by Scrubba has become our favourite.

Scrubba Wash Bag

It might seem like a simple enough thing, but you’d be surprised how many laundry bags our team have been through before settling on this one! Others on the market rip easily, get stinky themselves or leak their stank right through their porous material! This bag on the other hand not only solves those issues but offers a great place to actually wash your undies too!

Odour Resistant Underwear

Never leave home without good travel underwear . Socks and underpants are the foundations upon which all empires are built and I suggest bringing at least one full week’s supply of underwear with you.

rei travel shirt

When you’re traveling, underwear tends to get seriously sweaty and you may even sometimes be forced to live in it for days on end. To countenance the sheer griminess, bag yourself some breathable, odour-resistant underwear.

Now we’re talking! The team are big fans of these keks and they wouldn’t go anywhere without them! So, next time you look at a picture of one of us… well, use your imagination! Once they switched from plain old cotton to these technical undies, they’ve never looked back!

Sunglasses by Abaco

So yes Sunglasses can be picked up for a couple of dollars on pretty much every roadside in Southeast Asia. However, these are almost always low-quality items that offer no protection from the sun, can actually cause eyesight problems and more often than not will break within a week or so.

Abaco Polarized Sunglasses

Instead, we suggest picking up a pair of lovely travel sunglasses by Abaco Polarized. They offer proper UV protection , are reliably built and they look stylish as hell.

The team felt these glasses hit the right balance between being stylish, protective and not overly expensive too. They are also super durable too which for our clumsy gang is a real bonus!

rei travel shirt

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

How We Tested The Best Travel Clothes

There is no perfect or exact science when it comes to testing out travel and outdoor gear. When it comes to the best travel clothes, however, we’ve got heaps of experience over the years with various different bits of gear on various trips.

Of course, the best clothing for travel is a subjective matter, but we’ve tried a lot of shiz out, so we think we’re well equipt to give you a few pointers! In terms of testing, we were sure to give each item a proper test drive and pay close attention to things like seam stitching, quality of materials, breathability, weight, packability, comfort, fit and of course style!

We also looked at how well each piece of gear fulfils its primary purpose. For example, so if we’re testing out a waterproof jacket, then we’re going to be rating it on how well it keeps out the rain! You get the idea! Finally, we looked at the cost of each item. More expensive gear was treated more harshly than cheaper items that were given a few more passes.

FAQ about the Best Travel Clothes

Still have some questions about the best clothing for travel? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What clothing is considered comfortable for travel?

Breathable, loose fitting clothes are ideal for travel, unless you’re in cold regions. Then having warm clothes and multiple layers is a must.

How do I find the right travel clothes?

Keep these key features in mind: 1. Versatility 2. Material 3. Fit 4. Price

How can you wash your clothes while travelling?

Consider purchasing a Laundry Wash Bag – a water tight, rubber laundry bag which you use to actually wash your clothes inside simply by adding detergent and shaking it about.

How do you look chic when traveling?

Before you start travelling, look for clothes that are versatile. Having a sleek black pair of hiking chinos can also be worn to a city event. Think: plain colors, good fit and hidden functionality.

rei travel shirt

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Final Thoughts on Travel Clothes

tbbteam-Aiden-mountains-colombia

Well that’s all for now. We hope that by now you have some idea of what travel clothes to take on your next trip. Did you find this guide useful? Did we perhaps miss anything? Let us know in the comments below.

See you on the road… hopefully sporting some great travel clothes!

Want a more specific guide? Have a look at our dedicated backpacking packing list next!

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali

Aiden Freeborn

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I’ve Tested Hundreds of REI Products, and These Are the 16 I Recommend to Any Hiker or Camper

From Merrell hiking boots to a Patagonia belt bag, this expert-approved REI gear starts at just $9.

rei travel shirt

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

As an outdoorsy kid, I basically grew up in an REI . I’ve spent countless hours browsing through the racks, reading product labels front to back, and testing different brands and designs. Over the years, I’ve seen the retailer as a toy store for people like me who prefer to spend their time out in the woods. This, in return, has materialized as my wardrobe and hiking gear repertoire looking like a miniature REI store. 

And now as an outdoors enthusiast, avid camper, climber, and REI employee for the past few years, I’ve tried hundreds of different garments, gear, and accessories and have made it my life’s purpose to help people shop better. And even though I don’t speak for the company, I speak on behalf of the gearheads when I say that REI is one of the best in the business when it comes to outdoor products that are built to last. 

Speaking from experience, every day, I help people shop for high-quality outdoor gear that they’ll be able to use for years. And, because I want your fall hikes to be as magical as they can be, I’ve taken the time to curate a list of not only my personal favorite products at REI, but also top-selling ones that my customers rave about. This list includes everything from durable clothes , trail-ready hiking shoes , chairs for your campsite , and so much more. I’ll be using practically every item on my list this fall, so I know you’ll love them, too. Prices start at just $9, so keep reading to find your new favorite products that you’ll never want to hit the great outdoors without. 

REI Co-op Flash 22 Backpack

After years of struggling with floppy, unstructured minimalist day packs, I finally picked up the Flash 22. It’s the holy grail of lightweight day packs; the sheet of foam padding is just enough to keep this pack, well, pack-shaped, but it’s still easy to fold and stow away in a duffel for travel. This bag has quickly become my everyday bag, too, and I continue to be impressed by its spacious compartments, including its deep water bottle pockets that can comfortably accommodate larger insulated bottles and mugs. Even more, unlike other day packs, this particular one has a wide hip belt that makes a huge difference while hiking, but you can also tuck them out of the way when you don’t need them.

Hoka Challenger 7 Running Shoes

These Hokas never fail to add pep to my step. Lately, I’ve been wearing this cushiony trail runner for all my shorter hikes, and it’s like walking on a cloud every time. The brand is known for its thick, chunky foam throughout the midsole, and the Challenger 7 has an extra bit of padding in the heel. No matter the terrain, I feel like I’m floating over every surface. This shoe is designed to perform just as well on the road as it does on the trail, so it’s also a great walking shoe. And now, they’re even lighter than ever thanks to a recent redesign.

Rei Co-op Trailsmith Fleece

Now that the temperatures are starting to drop, layering is more important than ever. For those chilly mornings or colder days, a fleece layer is a huge difference-maker, and this REI Co-op Trailsmith Fleece is my go-to. This is a redesign of an REI jacket from 1992, spruced up with modern elements. It uses Polartec fleece, one of the biggest names in outdoor fabric, which makes it warm, cozy, and light. I’ve bought plenty of fleece jackets with the sole purpose of layering under other jackets, but this one’s boxy retro style is so cool that I wear mine by itself all the time. Be sure to scoop one for yourself while it’s 25 percent off right now.

Rei Co-op Flash Hybrid Tights

In recent years, REI has introduced more and more activewear to its in-house brand, and every product I’ve tried has been a winner. I don’t wear a ton of tights or leggings, but I picked up these Flash Hybrid Tights on a whim and haven’t regretted it for a moment. Stretchy side panels make it easy to move around while thicker nylon segments in the front and back wick moisture and boost durability. I wear these when I go climbing outdoors, and even after dragging them up and down over craggy cliff sides, there’s not a rip or snag in sight. Oh, and they have not one, but two pockets!

Darn Tough Hiking Socks

An often-overlooked piece of gear is a reliable pair of socks. I’m a firm believer that the socks you wear can make or break any trip, and have the blisters to show for it. I’ve tried basically every brand of hiking socks on the market, and I can confidently say that Darn Tough makes the best pair around. So much so that I’ve been slowly converting my entire sock drawer to these beauties, and I have to say, I am a happier hiker as a result. These socks are so comfortable that I wear them year-round, but their thick, cushiony fit especially shines in the fall. The Merino wool wicks away sweat and odors, and they have a lifetime guarantee if you manage to wear a hole into them (but I doubt you ever will)! Pro tip: buy three pairs at REI, and you’ll also score a 10 percent discount. 

Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoes

These are the ultimate do-everything shoes. Whether you’re day hiking, apple picking, or campfire sitting, you’re going to need durable footwear at some point, and the Moab 3 can tackle anything. Sitting right around ankle height, this pair expertly balances the comfort of a shoe with the support and hardiness of a boot. I especially love the waterproof leather uppers on this pair — tough leather boots are a fall essential, and these Merrells are a perfect fit. 

Rei Co-op Trailsmith Overalls

I worked on vegetable farm for a season, and these REI overalls were in heavy rotation for months. At first, I was worried that they’d end up so beat up and dirty that I couldn’t wear them out anymore, but my fear quickly melted away as I realized just how well-constructed these overalls are. I fell in love with their thick double knees and stretchy shoulder straps, and they have a flattering but unrestrictive fit. Even after hours of kneeling in the dirt, my pair still looks great, and I get compliments when I wear them out!

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Fanny Pack

I just got home from a month-long Europe trip, and this little Patagonia hip pack was the undisputed trip M.V.P. Every day, I’d sling this bag over my shoulder with my phone, wallet, keys, and other small travel accessories. To me, the Black Hole Mini is less like a bag and more like the ultimate pocket. It’s so lightweight that you barely feel it, and I love that my necessities fit neatly inside without wasted space. Thankfully, you don’t have to trade practicality for style with these bags, since they come in a bunch of cute colors that add a little pop to every fall fit. 

Black Diamond LiteWire Carabiner

I’ve been a pretty serious climber for the past few years now, and I never tackle any vertical (and any other) terrain without a handful of trusty carabiners at my side. This wire gate carabiner from Black Diamond is built to clip into climbing safety equipment, but I like to keep a bunch around to organize my gear. Right now, I have one clipped on a water bottle, two on my backpack, and countless more tossed into bags and totes for whenever I need them. These Black Diamond carabiners are super light so you’ll hardly notice them in your pack, but they’re lifesavers whenever you need to attach two pieces of gear together. Oh, and they’re for climbing, too. 

REI Co-op Flexlite Chair

I bought my first Flexlite chair five years ago, and this past summer, I decided it was so handy that I needed another one. If you’re tired of sitting on the ground but don’t want to lug a big lawn chair around at fall festivals or on hikes, you need one of these. For a chair that only weighs a hair over a pound and a half, it’s shockingly comfy, and it packs down to the size of one or two water bottles. My partner and I always throw a couple in our bags at outdoor concerts so we can kick back with ease. 

Rei Co-op Flannel Fleece Blanket

I received this Flannel Fleece Blanket as a gift and loved it so much that I immediately turned around and began gifting it to my friends. Somehow, REI managed to find the perfect Goldilocks-level temperature with this blanket — it’s the first thing people reach for when I host fall movie nights or bonfires. The thin layer of fleece keeps you at just the right level of toasty while snuggled up by a crackling fire, and the cotton flannel exterior sheds dirt and debris like a champ. Plus, it’s big enough to comfortably fit two people.

REI Co-op Road Tripper 60 Duffle Bag

With the holidays (and holiday travel) sneaking up on me once again, a spacious, durable duffel bag takes the stress out of my last-minute packing. The Roadtripper 60 has been my duffel of choice for years — it’s big enough that I don’t have to think twice about tossing in a comically large amount of extra socks and garments, but compact enough that no one accuses me of hogging trunk space. Mine still looks brand-new after years of overpacking, thanks to its thick abrasion-resistant fabric and sturdy stitching. The external zipper pocket is a convenient place to stash my keys and chargers, and because the bag folds up into its own small packing cube, it’s easy to pack away for travel or storage.

Smartwool Classic All-Season Merino Long-Sleeve Base Layer Top

Smartwool has a beyond huge following for its high-quality wool layers and socks, and there’s a reason for it. As soon as the weather starts getting chilly, I start pointing people toward Smartwool’s All-Season Merino Top no matter what kind of trip or activity they’re planning. Sometimes, thick base layers feel bulky and restrictive to me, so I’m a huge fan of Smartwool’s lighter-weight all-season products. This top adds an extra boost of warmth to any fall outfit, but it’s thin and comfortable enough to wear as a shirt on warmer days. 

REI Co-op Down 650 Jacket

I’ve always bought whimsy synthetic puffer jackets, so that’s what I packed on a winter road trip I took around the country. However, after feeling the chill sink through my thin jacket while I watched snowfall in the Grand Canyon, I knew it was time for an upgrade. This top-rated Down 650 jacket was an investment, but this is one of the best bang-for-your-buck products at REI. With a generous amount of 650 fill-power down, this jacket is perfect by itself for brisk fall days and can keep you even warmer when you throw on extra layers underneath. Most down products become useless when they’re wet, but this jacket has a water-resistant coating that keeps it dry and insulating for longer. It’s also incredibly light and super packable, thanks to the high-quality down fill.

Kuhl Renegade Men’s Convertible Pants

After hearing dozens of rave reviews, it’s clear that these Kuhl pants hold a special place in many customer’s hearts. Mostly, people tell me about how soft and comfortable the fabric is, thanks to the brand’s signature “Duralux” material that performs like a technical fabric while remaining soft and breathable. I know customers who bought a pair of these for a safari and ended up wearing them daily long after the trip ended, just because they’re so comfortable and versatile. And have no fear during the shoulder season, because the legs easily zip off to turn these pants into shorts on warmer days. These pants are amazing for travel, hiking, and anything in between; it’s no wonder I see so many people come back for a second pair. 

Rei Co-op Lightweight Logo Beanie

Beanies are a classic fall wardrobe staple, but it’s hard to find one that’s warm without making your brain feel like it’s cooking. This lightweight logo beanie is my cap of choice in the shoulder season. It wears super comfortably in the fall and into the winter with a soft acrylic and wool blend. Because it’s not a heavy fabric, I’m impressed by how breathable this hat feels, even while I’m hiking. These beanies come in six fall-friendly colors that work with any outfit, and the REI logo tag on the front adds a touch of outdoorsy charm. And right now, if you pick another hat or pair of gloves, you’ll score an extra 20 percent off both.

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  1. 17 Best Men's Travel Shirts for Vacation, Comfort, and Adventure in

    7. RIDGE MERINO JOURNEY TEE. The Ridge Merino Journey tee is an awesome, travel-ready wool tee-shirt design for durability, hard use, and quick-drying comfort while still fighting funk. This Merino Wool shirt combines 13% nylon into the fabric, making it twice as durable as your average, 100% Merino wool t-shirt.

  2. 10 BEST Safari Shirts For Men & Women (We Review Each!)

    The REI Co-op Sahara Long Shirt is an excellent choice for a safari shirt. It offers a timeless, versatile look for travel, safari, or hiking. We love that REI delivers a comfortable midweight shirt with fantastic value. Along with reliable performance, the shirt comes in a range of pattern and color options suitable for the bush.

  3. The 6 Best Sun Protection Shirts of 2024

    We tested men's sun protection shirts from Mountain Hardwear, REI, Columbia, Black Diamond, and more to find the best models for all your sunny excursions. ... Best Travel Underwear of 2024. Best Inflatable Kayak of 2024. Best Stand Up Paddle Boards of 2024. Best Flip Flops for Men of 2024.

  4. Men's Long Sleeve Travel Shirts

    The only shirts I bring on a summer trip are long sleeve, pack at least 10 of them for a month to two month trip, both 100% cotton and blend, button-down mostly, a few are oxford, For outdoor travel I look for sun-protetion and quick drying, especially quick drying. You can use the REI search function for "men", ".

  5. REI Co-op Sahara Long-Sleeve

    Travel; We buy all the products we test — no freebies from companies. ... The REI Sahara is a button-up shirt with a collar made of 94% nylon and 6% spandex. It has a UPF 50 rating and features two Velcro chest pockets, a side zippered pocket, tab sleeves, a full-back vent, and a sunglasses loop. ... The REI Sahara Long-Sleeve is a well ...

  6. Packing The BEST Travel Clothes For Any Trip

    The Arc'teryx Beta weighs just 300 g / 10.6 oz, making it one of the lightest pieces of performance clothing in your backpack - it packs down to the size of a large grapefruit and definitely weighs less than one. It's fully waterproof and will withstand a hell of a beating from the rain gods whilst you stay dry.

  7. 100 Best Travel Clothing Deals for Spring 2024

    REI, Athleta, Vuori, and More Travel Clothing Brands Are Cleaning House — Shop the 100 Best Deals Up to 70% Off. We shopped every spring sale on the Internet to find the best deals for travelers.

  8. Need a suggestion for a good travel t-shirt : r/onebag

    My favorite tshirts by far are Capilene daily. Packable, comfy, good look for a casual tshirt, and anti odor treatment. I've replaced almost all my cotton with these for day to day. And at least 2-3 of these are always on my trips. For real hot areas, Session from Western Rise is great as another mentioned.

  9. The 62 Best REI Winter Sale Travel Gear Deals

    The North Face Women's Heritage Patch Long-Sleeve T-Shirt in Almond Butter, $31 (originally $45) Adidas Men's Terrex Xperior Pants, $55 (originally $110) ... Best REI Travel Bag Deals .

  10. The 68 Best REI Sale Outdoor Gear Deals

    REI Co-op Men's XeroDry GTX Jacket, $52 (originally $179) Picture Organic Clothing Women's Face It Insulated Jacket, $140 (originally $280) Patagonia Women's Wind Shield Pants, $84 (originally ...

  11. Expert Picks: 16 REI Outdoor Gear Finds for Fall

    Orig. $90 $68 at REI. Now that the temperatures are starting to drop, layering is more important than ever. For those chilly mornings or colder days, a fleece layer is a huge difference-maker, and ...