curvy travel pants

The Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Look good on the go while maximizing comfort and convenience

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TripSavvy / Marcus Millan

A great pair of travel pants is a lot like a great friend: supportive without being restrictive and ready for any occasion. Look for breathable, moisture-wicking materials that won’t wrinkle in your suitcase or after hours on the airplane. A relaxed fit (or plenty of stretch if you opt for form-fitting leggings) is essential for freedom of movement on your adventures, while the ability to transition from day to evening wear with the right accessories is a major plus that cuts down on packing requirements. 

Finding pants that meet all these criteria can seem difficult, which is why our team of travel experts took on the task of testing 40 of the most popular options currently on the market. We wore each pair in multiple scenarios from air travel to gym workouts for two weeks, then scored them for fit, comfort, quality, durability, design, and value to choose our favorites. Our overall winner was the Stretch High-Rise Jogger from Lululemon, with its super soft material; loose, breathable fit; and useful pockets. Here are all the travel pants we loved.

Final Verdict

How we tested.

• What to Look for in Travel Pants

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, lululemon high-rise jogger.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5

Incredibly soft

Breathable and moisture-wicking 

Versatile drawstring waistband

Some may prefer a slimmer cut

The Lululemon Stretch High-Rise Jogger may well be the perfect travel pant, with a classic, loose-fitting silhouette that we found supremely comfortable. Although they’re meant to be full-length, the tapered ankle means they look good even if they come up a little shorter on tall women, while the Luxtreme fabric’s combination of softness and stretchiness offers a slightly more elevated aesthetic than one might expect from a pair of joggers. Designed for breathability, the moisture-wicking fabric also handles temperature changes well (as proved when we tested them on a journey from chilly San Francisco to balmy Hawaii). 

We loved the butter-soft waistband and the fact that while stretchy, these joggers also have a drawstring that you can cinch for a more tailored fit. The drawstring can be worn visibly or hidden inside for a more streamlined look. We also appreciated the extra-deep pockets, which held our phone securely even when sitting down. The pants also boast a hidden zipper pocket and card sleeve. Best of all, after multiple plane and car journeys (and three washes) the pants looked and felt brand new. Color choices are mostly muted and include kelly green, utility blue, and black. 

Sizes: 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 | Materials: Nylon, Lycra, elastane, polyester

TripSavvy / Elena Garcia

Best Lightweight

Outdoor voices relay wide leg pant.

Public Lands

Easy-on elasticated waistband

Great freedom of movement

Generous pockets

Sizing is not particularly accurate

The mid-rise Relay Wide Leg Pants from Outdoor Voices score sustainability points with their recycled polyester and spandex construction. We also found the combination to be incredibly comfortable, even on a journey from New York City to Florida that involved several different modes of transport and a significant temperature change. The pants are breathable and lightweight without feeling cheap, with a decent amount of stretch. We loved the branded, elasticated waistband—no more struggling with zippers, buttons, or drawstrings while rushing for a flight. 

The elasticity also gave us full freedom of movement while performing squats as part of our testing process. As a result, we feel the pants would be ideal for everything from all-day walking tours to hiking, biking, and working out on vacation. Spacious pockets are another highlight, although we noticed that anything weighty did tend to pull the pants down a bit. They come in black, oceanic (blue), and gravel (beige). We recommend sizing down for the best fit. 

Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL | Materials: Recycled polyester, spandex

TripSavvy / Phoebe Sklansky

Best for Work

Quince 100 percent european linen pants.

• Design 5 /5

Flattering, supportive shape

Wrinkle-resistant material

Elasticated for pull-on convenience

Multiple inseam lengths available in select colors only

Pockets are purely decorative

If you’re looking for pants that you can wear straight to a meeting after arriving at the airport, look no further than the Quince Ultra-Stretch Ponte Straight Leg Pants. They offer all the convenience of traditional travel pants, with an elasticated waistband for easy on and off and four-way-stretch fabric for complete freedom of movement. But, with their straight cut and thoughtful detailing (think belt loops and faux pockets on the front and back), they are also elegant enough for the boardroom. 

We love that these pants are wrinkle-resistant, so you don’t need to waste time looking for an iron in your hotel room. And finding the right size is easy with three inseam lengths to choose from. Our tester wears an XL and has a pear-shaped body type. She loved the pants’ fit, finding them comfortable yet supportive with good tummy control (without feeling like shapewear). The only downside? We wish there were even more sizes to choose from and that all inseam lengths were available in every colorway.  

Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL; 28-inch, 30-inch, 32-inch inseam | Materials: Rayon, nylon, spandex

Liverpool The Gia Glider Ankle Skinny Jean

Available in regular and tall lengths

Can be dressed up or down

Functioning pockets

Fit loosens slightly in between washes

Sometimes you have to pack light and one way to do that is to opt for pants that you can dress up or down for any occasion—like the Liverpool Los Angeles The Gia Gliders. Thicker and more supportive than leggings yet stretchier, softer, and more comfortable than regular jeans, these mid-rise jeggings come in two lengths and can be pulled on in seconds. We found them amazingly comfortable, even after full days in the office, running errands, or traveling across the city. 

A faux zipper, a working button, and belt loops add style points. And, although the front pockets are too small to be very useful, we really appreciated the functionality of the full-size back pockets. We found that the pants offered a great range of movement (although we wouldn’t necessarily recommend them for your next yoga session!), and loved that they were thick enough never to have to worry about see-through areas. We did find that they bagged slightly after a few days’ wear, but also that they returned to their original shape after washing. 

Sizes: 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16; regular, tall | Materials: Cotton, rayon, modal

Best With Pockets

Wayre jetsetter trouser.

Inclusive sizing

Incredibly versatile

Sustainable and ethically made

Not ideal for colder weather

If you prioritize pockets when looking for the perfect pair of pants, you’ll love the Wayre Jetsetter Trousers. They offer six functional pockets: four on the sides and back, each large enough for a phone or wallet; a card pocket; and a pickpocket-proof zippered pocket capable of accommodating a passport, cash, or keys. We also love the broad range of sizes offered, including standard and tall lengths. We loved the fit, finding them true to size with a waistband that wasn’t too tight or loose, but just right. 

The style is wide-legged, with a cropped length and high-rise waist. They’re flexible enough to be comfy on the plane or when exploring your destination, but also smart enough to dress up come evening. We feel this versatility helps to justify the pants’ admittedly high price tag. They are made of durable Aire-Flex fabric, which is breathable, spill- and odor-proof, wrinkle-proof, and rated for UPF 30+ sun protection. It’s also bluesign-certified for sustainability points, and available in six gorgeous colors from bronze to rose water. 

Sizes: 00, 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 | Materials: Aire-Flex (rPET)

TripSavvy / Julia Sayers

Most Comfortable

Vuori performance jogger.

• Design 4 /5

Unbelievably soft fabric

Completely unrestricted movement

Can be tumble dried 

Pockets aren’t particularly functional

Cropped style may not suit all tastes

Vuori Performance Joggers are made from DreamKnit fabric: a recycled polyester and elastane blend that’s impossibly soft and comfortable on long travel days. The pants are also breathable and moisture-wicking, with four-way stretch for full freedom of movement. The fit is slim yet relaxed, with a mid-rise waist and a tapered, cropped leg. We liked the adjustability of the drawstring waist and the fact that the fit remained consistent on every wear. Some of us that are tall weren't a big fan of the cropped style, though. 

The joggers have two side pockets, which are deep enough to hold your phone or wallet. However, we found that anything bulky looked a little odd due to the pants’ slightly clingy style. Nevertheless, we believe the durable, quality fabric makes them well worth their high-end price tag and appreciated that unlike many of the pants on this list, ythese ones can be tumble dried without shrinking, stretching, or pilling. Colors range from black camo and navy to a dusky pink marsala heather. 

Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL | Materials: Recycled polyester, elastane

TripSavvy / Sophie Mendel

Best Leggings

Abercrombie & fitch ypb studiosoft legging.

Abercrombie & Fitch

• Quality 4.5 /5

Flattering, sculpting design

No movement, even during high-impact activities

Relatively affordable

Lighter colors may show sweat when working out

The Abercrombie YPB StudioSoft 7/8 Length Leggings are made from a super soft, stretchy, and supportive nylon and elastane blend. We loved that they were like a second skin without making us feel like a stuffed sausage. The double-layer waistband compresses without being uncomfortable for a smoothing effect, while an ultra high-rise cut and sculpting, V-shaped back seaming help flatter your figure, whatever your body type. We felt that the leggings were pretty breathable, although some sweat did show through on the light color we tested. 

One highlight for us was that the leggings stayed firmly in place with no sagging, looseness, or riding up no matter what we wore them for—including a high-impact gym workout. With completely unimpeded movement, we could see them performing well in any travel scenario, from sightseeing to adventure tours. There’s even a hidden interior waistband pocket for cards or keys. The leggings are the most affordable on this list and come in three inseam lengths (short, regular, and long) and four colors (lilac, oat, onyx, and mineral blue). 

Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL; short, regular, long | Materials: Nylon, elastane

TripSavvy / Sophia Devito

Quince Ponte Straight Leg Pant

• Durability 4.5 /5

Naturally heat regulating

Retain quality after multiple washes

Ethically sourced and produced

Unstructured fit loosens throughout the day

These beautiful linen pants from Quince are ethically woven from 100 percent European flax, making them naturally hypoallergenic, breathable, and heat regulating. We found them so light and comfortable, it was easy to forget we were wearing pants at all. After trying them on, we would describe them as “just easy,” from putting them on to accessorizing them for different occasions. The linen is also very high quality, with no changes to its look or feel after several washes and enough thickness not to have to worry about visible underwear. 

The fit is true to size, with a streamlined, straight-leg aesthetic that we feel is very versatile. The cropped legs hit just above the ankle, making them practical for navigating less-than-pristine airport bathrooms and cute when paired with sneakers, sandals, and flip-flops. If we could make one change? We’d add a drawstring to the elasticated waist to counteract the fact that it does stretch a little with extended wear. Finally, the pants have three functioning pockets and come in nine attractive colors. 

Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL | Materials: European flax linen

TripSavvy / Jackie Napalan

Our overall favorite travel pants were the Stretch High-Rise Joggers from Lululemon, which we loved for their butter-soft comfort, stretch, and stylish appearance. For something a little more formal, choose Quince’s elegant yet eminently practical Ultra-Stretch Ponte Straight Leg Pants .

Each pair of pants considered for this article went through the same real-life testing process. First, we unboxed and visually inspected the pants to gain an overall impression of material and construction quality. We tested the design and function of features, including pockets, zippers, buttons, and drawstrings; then put the pants on to perform a series of squats. This gave us an idea of their fit, breathability, and stretch. 

Then, we wore each pair for at least four six-hour periods over two weeks. We wore them for traveling and everyday activities, including going to work, attending social events, and running errands. Finally, we washed the pants at least once according to the manufacturer’s care guidelines to see how well they held up. Each pair was scored from one to five for fit, comfort, quality, durability, design, and value, with overall scores informing our category winners.

What to Look For in Women's Travel Pants

Comfort and flexibility are key when it comes to travel pants, which is why many of our favorites are made from technical blends featuring materials like nylon, elastane, spandex, polyester, and Lycra. These blends are typically breathable and moisture-wicking, too, making them easily able to handle temperature changes and great for active vacation pursuits such as hiking or sightseeing tours. Natural materials like cotton and linen are also comfy and breathable, although you’ll have to pack carefully to avoid too many wrinkles. 

The travel pants that we tested for this article ranged in price from $22 to $228, but the most affordable pair that scored highly enough to be featured cost $70. This is a good illustration of the old adage, “you get what you pay for,” and if you want a pair of pants that tick all the boxes for comfort, versatility, and durability, then you should expect to pay somewhere around the $100 mark. Although this may seem expensive, consider that you’ll be able to wear the right pair of travel pants over and over again on your trip and hopefully for many years to come. 

Above all, travel pants should be comfortable. You want full freedom of movement so you can run for that bus, take on that hiking trail, or dance the night away at that sidewalk taverna. You also want to be able to sit comfortably for several hours while traveling without experiencing any uncomfortable pinching or compression. This either means choosing pants with a relaxed fit, or, if you prefer form-fitting leggings, opting for ones with super soft material, plenty of stretch, and a waistband that stays firmly in place without being too tight.

Style is very personal and there’s no right or wrong when it comes to travel pants (or any other clothing). Whatever style you go for, though, we recommend choosing one with plenty of versatility. That means pants that you can dress up with heels and a blazer for a night out or formal business meeting, for example, or pair with sneakers and a T-shirt for more casual adventures during the day. This way, you’ll cut down on the number of different pants you need to take and save extra space in your suitcase for other items. 

Although pockets aren’t necessarily essential if you’re the kind of person who always travels with a purse or backpack, they can be a very handy addition to your travel pants. After all, how much easier is it to whip your passport out of your pocket at security than having to rummage through your purse for the 99th time? Look for pockets that are deep enough to hold your valuables securely, even when you’re sitting down. The smartest travel pants may even have a zippered pocket or a hidden pocket in the waistband to dissuade pickpockets. 

Whether for women or for men , the best pair of travel pants is the one you feel most comfortable in. Generally speaking, opt for soft, stretchy fabrics or pants with a relaxed fit that won’t feel too restrictive after hours in one position on the airplane. Pockets are ideal for keeping essentials like your wallet, phone, or passport handy, while breathable, sweat-wicking materials are great if you’re headed somewhere warm. Finally, choosing pants that you can wear for different scenarios (from daytime sightseeing or hiking to dining out in the evening) will help you pack smarter and lighter. 

When it comes to the kind of casual pants listed in this article (leggings, joggers, lightweight travel pants), the best way to pack for wrinkle-free results is to fold the pants in half vertically, then roll them up tightly starting from the waistband. Bonus: This is also a great space saver, giving you more room in your suitcase for other clothes or souvenirs you pick up along the way. 

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert and a regular contributor of travel-related commerce articles. She’s visited more than 50 countries and tried countless pairs of travel pants, from lightweight technical pants for jungle expeditions to her favorite comfy leggings for adventures with her kids. This article is based on real-life tests carried out by members of TripSavvy’s expert travel team, as well as product descriptions and customer reviews.  

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The Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2022

Our travel activities are diverse, and we need pants that can cover all the bases . While comfort and mobility are essential for an active traveler, we also looked for versatile styles that transfer easily to a night out on the town or even a work event. We gave bonus points for wrinkle-proof and spill-resistant fabrics, and details like pockets and zippers made the best stand out.

We packed these pants for a British Columbia road trip to explore the cliffs of Squamish and the culinary offerings of Vancouver, wore them hiking in Washington’s Cascades, and donned them for museum trips, and brewery hangs in Seattle.

While there is some overlap, the best travel pants are distinct from the highest-rated hiking pants , which we’ve also extensively reviewed.

Check out our comprehensive buyer’s guide and frequently asked questions for helpful tips. And have a look at our comparison chart if you need help in steering your decision-making.

Scroll through to see all of our recommendations, or jump to the category you’re looking for:

• Best Overall Women’s Travel Pants
• Most Versatile Travel Pants for Women
• Most Stylish Women’s Travel Pants
• Best Weather Resistance 

Best of the Rest

Best overall women’s travel pants: mountain hardwear dynama/2 ankle pants.

For a pair of pants you can bring anywhere and use for anything, look no further than the Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Ankle pants ($85). The stretch-woven nylon fabric is extremely lightweight and stretchy, which is perfect for an active day of exploration.

The high elastic waistband offers maximum comfort, while the faux zipper gives the pants a sleeker look. The functionality of these pants doesn’t sacrifice style, either. With a tapered leg and low-profile pockets, you’ll transition seamlessly from crushing at the crag to exploring around town.

Our tester brought these on a multi-sport camping trip to Squamish, British Columbia, and didn’t need another pair of pants the entire trip. She climbed classic routes and then went out for gelato in the bustling mountain town.

With sunny weather in the upper 80s on this trip, she appreciated the high UPF rating, which measures how much the fabric protects against the sun’s ultraviolet rays. She stayed cool in the lightweight fabric despite the steamy conditions. These pants are so comfortable she even fell asleep in them!

After checking all of the boxes with style, these top our list as the best travel pants of 2022.

Comfortable, attractive, and highly versatile, the Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Ankle pants are a great option for an active traveler who doesn’t want to sacrifice style.

• UPF treatment: 50
• DWR finish: Yes
• Pockets: 1 zip pocket, 2 hand pockets
• Fit: Slim, tapered leg
• Weight: 8.46 oz.
• Lightweight and breathable fabric
• Versatile style for both active use and casual wear
• Stretchy fabric offers great mobility
• Zip pockets
• Waistband sags a bit when a phone is carried in the zip pocket

Check Price at REI Check Price at Backcountry

Most Versatile Women’s Travel Pants: Patagonia Skyline Traveler Pants

Patagonia combines style and mobility with the Skyline Traveler pants ($99). They’re high-waisted and form-fitting with a slim, tapered leg in a cut similar to a skinny jean. Scoring big points in versatility, these pants are easy to dress up or down.

The stretch-woven blend of nylon and spandex is lightweight and breathable and allows good mobility. With a low-profile side zip pocket, these pants check a lot of boxes for us.

During a heatwave in Washington, our tester stayed comfortable wearing these pants while car camping. She said they felt cool and breathable, even in sweltering conditions. Boasting a UPF rating of 40, the Skyline Travelers also provide solid sun protection, and the DWR finish curtails light moisture.

Our lead reviewer passed these on to a taller friend because the regular inseam seemed to run a bit long. Additionally, the ankle zippers make it difficult to adjust the length because it’s awkward to wear them rolled up.

Patagonia does make these in a 28-inch and 30-inch inseam, so we recommend trying them on to increase the odds of finding a good fit.

• UPF treatment: 40
• Pockets: 5-pocket styling with 1 zip pocket
• Weight: 10 oz.
• Lightweight, breathable fabric with good stretch
• Stylish fit
• Ankle zippers make the length less flexible

Check Price at Backcountry Check Price at Patagonia

Most Stylish Women’s Travel Pants: Athleta Brooklyn Ankle Pants

In a trendy cut, the Athleta Brooklyn Ankle Pants ($99) are our top choice for style, but they win big in the comfort department, too. The silky ultralight fabric moves easily with you wherever you go, and there are even zip pockets in the back to stash a small key or credit card while out and about.

These would be the perfect choice for a long flight followed immediately by a work meeting or social engagement.

Our tester wore these on a visit to the Seattle Aquarium with her highly active 2-year-old niece before heading out for lunch downtown. She loved the freedom of movement they allowed her while chasing after a toddler, and she felt chic exploring downtown.

After packing them haphazardly in her duffel bag for her trip to the city, she also discovered the silky fabric is also surprisingly wrinkle-resistant.

We wouldn’t recommend the Brooklyn Ankle Pants for highly active pursuits like hiking or rock climbing, but they are one of the only women’s travel pants we tested that would transition seamlessly from a plane to the office. Made from recycled polyester sourced from post-consumer plastic bottles, they also score bonus points for sustainability.

• UPF treatment: 50+
• DWR finish: No
• Fit: Semi-fitted
• Pockets: 2 zip pockets, 2 hand pockets
• Weight:  Unavailable
• Great style, fun color options
• Silky, wrinkle-resistant fabric
• Quick-drying
• Hidden zip pockets
• Less versatile for highly active use

Check Price at REI Check Price at Athleta

Best Weather-Resistant Women’s Travel Pants: Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants

If you’re planning a trip with plenty of mountain time, the Eddie Bauer Guide Pro pants ($150) are a great pair to pack. They boast a UPF protection of 50+ and a DWR finish that sheds light rain or spills, making the Guide Pros a great choice for outdoor activities.

The visible logo on the side detracts a bit from aesthetics, but we like the low-profile zip pockets better than the traditional cargo-style look of many women’s travel pants.

Our tester wore these on a hike to the top of the Stawamus Chief in Squamish, British Columbia. She found the fabric a bit heavy for warm, summertime temps but expected they’d be great on a mission higher in the mountains or during cooler weather. The zip pockets on the side were a bit too small to fit her phone, which she likes to keep handy on hikes for navigation purposes.

These pants run about a size bigger than the other styles we tested, and the fit is moderately curvy. Our tester needed a belt to keep these from sliding down while hiking, so the belt loops were a plus! Overall, for active pursuits where you may find yourself subjected to the elements, these are a great pair of women’s travel pants to own.

• Fit: Moderately curvy
• Weight: 9.9 oz.
• Bluesign-certified fabric ensures safe and sustainable textile production
• Great water resistance
• Two-way stretch fabric offers plenty of mobility
• Slightly heavy fabric
• Visible logo

Check Price at Amazon Check Price at Eddie Bauer

KUHL Free Flex Roll-Up Pants

The most similar to a traditional pair of hiking pants we tested, the KUHL Free Flex Roll-Up Pants ($99) have some solid features we have grown to love.

The ankle snaps allow you to convert these into shorter pants, which we prefer over zip-off convertible hiking pants. While we like that the side pockets are just big enough to hold a smartphone, their bulk costs some style points. On the plus side, a hidden drawstring makes for an adjustable waist, which eliminates the need to pack a belt.

Our tester wore the Free Flex Roll-Ups on a hike in the Cascades and while exploring Seattle on a sunny 80-degree day. She pounded over 4 miles of pavement in Seattle and carried her 2-year-old niece up and down a hiking trail to see a waterfall.

She found that they offered good mobility and stretch, though the fabric was a bit heavy. With big enough side pockets to stash her keys and phone, she was able to leave her extra bag at the hotel.

For a trip that’s heavy on outdoor activities and light on fancy dinners, these women’s travel pants are a win. With maximum sun protection at UPF 50+ and a DWR finish, you’ll be comfortable out in the elements on your next adventure.

• Fit: Relaxed
• Pockets: 4 snap pockets, 2 hand pockets
• Weight: 11 oz. (4 x 32)
• Ankle snaps make these easy to roll up
• Hidden drawstring waist
• Heavier fabric
• Cargo pockets

Check Price at REI Check Price at KUHL

The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Pants

The fabric of The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Pants ($69) was our favorite feature. Soft to the touch and super lightweight, these pants would be easy to curl up and fall asleep in.

The stretch and elastic waist make them easy to fit, and they come in a short and regular inseam. Of all of the women’s travel pants we tried, these felt the most casual. These are great for camping, hiking, or lounging, but we wouldn’t wear these to work or out to dinner.

During a hot, buggy camping trip in British Columbia, our tester appreciated having a pair of pants that allowed her to stay cool while fending off mosquitos. She found them comfortable for hiking and active use, and she liked the additional zip pocket hidden in the front.

The hidden drawcords near the ankles also make the lengths of the legs adjustable, but they don’t stay cinched as well as we’d like.

Our tester didn’t love the baggy, straight-leg cut and felt that the drawcord waist made them appear more like a pair of sweatpants than ones she would wear around town. The fabric also was a bit less wrinkle-resistant than some of the other styles we tried. Still, for long drives or flights, these would make comfortable travel pants.

• Fit: Relaxed, straight-leg
• Pockets: 1 hidden zip pocket, 2 hand pockets
• Weight: 7.5 oz.
• Comfortable, stretchy fabric
• Stay cool in hot weather
• Less versatile
• More casual

Check Price at REI Check Price at Amazon

Toad&Co Earthworks Ankle Pants

Manufactured with 88% less water and 62% less energy than conventional cotton, the organic cotton of the Toad&Co Earthworks Ankle Pants ($88) does well in the sustainability department. Though less mobile than some of the other styles we tried, the fabric blend does offer decent stretch with 2% elastane.

Our tester liked the skinny leg and high-waisted cut of the Earthworks Ankle Pants. She felt stylish while exploring the culinary options at an open-air market in Vancouver, British Columbia.

The deep hand pockets hold a phone pretty well, which is typically hard to find in women’s pants. On a relatively hot day, these pants felt a bit heavy and didn’t breathe as well as the other styles we tried. She would not have taken these hiking or used them for other active pursuits.

If you’re looking for a cute and comfortable pair of pants to pack for an urban-based adventure, the Earthworks Ankle Pants are a solid choice.

• UPF treatment: No
• Fit: Skinny, tapered leg
• Pockets: 5-pocket styling, no zip pockets
• Weight: Unavailable
• Durable fabric
• Made with organic cotton and TENCEL Lyocell fibers
• Stylish, form-fitting cut
• Less comfort and mobility

Check Price at Amazon Check Price at Backcountry

Women’s Travel Pants Comparison Chart

Why you should trust us.

The author of this guide, Katie Griffith, works as a seasonal guide and spends much of the year traveling for work in her cargo van. Frequently limited to whatever she can fit in a duffel bag, she knows well the value of multifunctional, wrinkle-proof clothing.

Don’t let the van fool you; she’s not a dirtbag. Katie hosts camping-based climbing and yoga retreats, where she needs to present a trustworthy, professional appearance to her clients. If she can hike or climb in the same pair of pants, that’s a definite win.

We recruited several other avid travelers to put these women’s travel pants through the wringer. Whether you’re hopping on a flight overseas or planning a cross-country road trip, we know these styles will serve you well.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Travel Pants for Women

Finding the best pair of travel pants depends on the type of trip you’re planning. We tested a variety of styles, some of which would fare better on a trip that’s heavy on outdoor activities, while others looked sharper for a fancy dinner or work event.

All must be comfortable while in transit, whether you’re road tripping or traveling by air. Read through the categories below and consider the most important elements for your adventure.

Versatility

A pair of travel pants need to do more than just go for a hike. They should be in line with current styles, be appropriate to wear to a work function or dinner if needed, and include special features that make the travel experience a breeze.

The Patagonia Skyline Traveler pants excel in several of the categories below, making them our top choice for versatility.

Comfort & Mobility

An overseas flight or cross-country road trip always brings a certain level of discomfort. You might spend hours jammed in the middle seat of an airplane, or perhaps you’ll end up sleeping in your car at a rest stop. Exploring a new destination often means hours of walking through museums, riding bikes around town, or venturing into the mountains.

When you’re away from the comforts of home, your wardrobe makes a big difference. Knit waistbands, fabric blends that include elastane (spandex), and lightweight materials all increase comfort and mobility factors. The comfort of the Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Ankle pants doesn’t sacrifice style and function, making them an excellent pair of women’s travel pants to consider.

Fit & Style

While the ideal fit varies depending on body type and preference, the best travel pants keep you looking sharp, no matter the activity. Baggy lounge pants or cargo styles lost points with us, and we didn’t include any leggings or sweatpants on this list.

The best pairs of women’s travel pants include aesthetic details and a flattering fit while retaining mobility and comfort. We like the faux zipper and side panels of the ultra-comfortable Athleta Brooklyn Ankle Pants , and the skinny-leg Toad&Co Earthworks Ankle pants are cute and comfortable.

We love a pair of travel pants that keeps our credit card, keys, and phone safe with functional zip pockets. Since we’re also keeping style in mind, a low-profile zip pocket is preferred over bulky cargo pockets. Almost all of the women’s travel pants we tested have at least one zip pocket, and we especially like the hidden zips of the Athleta Brooklyn Ankle Pants and The North Face Aphrodite pants .

UPF Treatment

Whether you love walking around cities or exploring the mountains, traveling typically means more time spent outside. Clothing treated with UPF, which stands for ultraviolet protection factor, makes it easier to keep your skin protected during long days in the sun.

When a fabric boasts of UPF treatment of 50+, it offers your skin the maximum possible protection. The minimum rating you’ll see is UPF 15 — anything lower doesn’t provide much protection from UV rays. A pair of pants with a high UPF rating and fabric light enough to wear on a hot day is a win — yet another reason why we love Mountain Hardwear’s Dynama/2 Ankle pants so much!

Fabric Weight & Breathability

Unless you’re headed for a winter destination, lightweight, breathable fabric is key to a good pair of travel pants. Remember, you’re going to be hauling your luggage through airports, back and forth from hotels, or possibly hiking into the mountains, so weight matters for all of the products you pack. Lighter fabric also packs down to a smaller size, reducing bulk in your luggage.

If you’ll be traveling in warmer weather, a breathable fabric will promote better moisture transfer as you work up a sweat. This will keep you more comfortable if you want to wear longer pants or sleeves to protect against the sun’s UV rays. Our testers were impressed with the breathability of the Patagonia Skyline Traveler pants and the Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Ankle pants while wearing them during hot summer camping trips.

Water-Resistant & Wrinkle-Proof Fabric

When access to laundry is limited, spill-resistant fabric is a big benefit. Several of the styles we tested, including the Eddie Bauer Guide Pro pants , are treated with a light DWR finish that causes liquids to bead and run off without leaving a stain. This also makes them more water-resistant if you find yourself out and about when a storm rolls through.

On most adventures, your life is packed into a backpack or suitcase. Even the most meticulous clothing folders benefit from wrinkle-resistant fabric. If a pair of pants look fresh a week into a Europe trip, we’re stoked. We were surprised with how sleek the Athleta Brooklyn Ankle pants looked after weeks of being stuffed in a duffel bag.

What are travel pants made of?

Travel pants are made with a variety of fabrics, but most include some elastane (spandex) for stretch and mobility. The higher the percentage of elastane in the fabric, the stretchier the pants.

Nylon and polyester are other commonly used fabrics due to their quick-drying and moisture-wicking capabilities. The Toad&Co Earthworks Ankle pants were the only pair we tested made with cotton, but they still included 2% elastane for added stretch.

Are cargo pants good for travel?

Pants with big cargo pockets are common in the hiking and travel pant line-up, but they’re not the only options around. The deep side pockets do provide some convenience when you want to stash a phone, wallet, or keys while exploring.

For added style, we like low-profile side zip pockets, like those on the Patagonia Skyline Traveler Pants or the hidden zip pockets on the Athleta Brooklyn Ankle Pants .

What are the best travel pants to wear on an airplane?

When you’re crunched in a middle seat, your clothing should be as comfortable as possible. Soft fabric with elastane blends adds stretch when you’re in a contorted position.

Wrinkle-resistant fabric with a stylish fit allows you to deplane and go straight out to dinner without needing a wardrobe change. Several of the styles we tested blend all three of these factors, including the Athleta Brooklyn Ankle Pants , the Patagonia Skyline Travelers , and the Toad&Co Earthworks Ankle Pants .

How many pants should I bring on a vacation?

The best travel pants allow you to only pack one or two pairs for your entire trip. That’s why we looked for versatile styles that you can either take hiking or out to dinner.

Quick-drying fabrics make it easier to clean your pants in a sink while en route and DWR finishes prevent spills from soaking into the fabric in the first place. The Kuhl Freeflex Roll-Up Pants and the Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants had the best DWR finish of the styles we tested.

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The Best Travel Clothes for Curvy Women

Ok ladies, let’s talk travel wear. The strappy dresses, string bikinis, and pretty convertible tops that seem to be featured on every packing list, round-up, and Instagram feed. Yes, they are adorable. And I’m sure they look amazing on many women. However, as a curvy girl who is often caught between regular and plus sizes, I regularly find that these ‘perfect travel clothes’ really aren’t the best travel clothes for curvy women.

More often or not, when I look at these ‘must have’ lists  I end up mentally knocking off half the items because they won’t look good on my figure. Only to find out that those that I think might actually work on my body come in limited sizes. It’s a pain in the butt. Just because I’m curvy doesn’t mean I don’t want pretty clothes. I deserve to feel good in a swimsuit. I want to look cute in my photos. And I know I’m not the only one feeling left out when it comes to travel fashion, but the fact is that plus size travel clothing is hard to find.

Thankfully there are some brilliant brands that recognize that women of all shapes and sizes like to travel and look good while doing it. So from one curvy traveller to another, here are my recommendations for the best travel clothes for curvy women.

Best Convertible Travel Wear for Curvy Women

Convertible clothing and capsule wardrobes are perfect for travel, especially since airlines are getting so strict with luggage. And while many brands offer these types of designs, most of them target those with slimmer figures who are willing to show more skin. Personally, that’s not my style, which is why I love the chic and elegant designs from Diane Kroe.

Diane Kroe offers a range of items from shirts to dresses to pants, all of which can be worn multiple ways. My first two Diane Kroe pieces were the  Origami Top (above) and the Carry On Cozy , both of which I love. Both pieces transformed into multiple looks as tops and dresses. They washed and wore well, and were very obviously a quality make. Plus, I loved how they looked and felt on. The Origami top is perfect for dressier events and I love the Carry On Cozy for the plane and for having on hand to cover up my shoulders in more conservative places like temples.

I have since added a few more Diane Kroe pieces to my wardrobe including the butterfly wrap and Mariposa kaftan which are lightweight coverups perfect for the beach or to cover up a little more at more conservative sites. I took my butterfly wrap with me to Egypt and used my Mariposa over my swimsuits in French Polynesia.  

Diane Kroe is a Canadian brand based in Toronto. All clothing is created in-house by staff, and custom orders are accepted. Pieces can be ordered online at: https://dianekroe.com and regular sizes run from 2-20 (US sizing) but custom orders are welcome, making it one of the best plus size travel clothing choices. Worldwide shipping is available.  Use code HANNAH10 to save 10% off your purchase! 

Best Casual Travel Essentials for Curvy Women

If you have been following me for a while and paid attention to my photos you might have noticed that, for the past few years, I have worn the same black t-shirt on every single trip I take. It’s the encircled Evolve Top and it’s easily my favourite t-shirt. The sleeves are adjustable to give it different looks, it’s a bit dressier than a normal t-shirt, and it washes and wears SO well. 

I have also recently fallen in love with their Dressy Sweatpant pants which are cuter than leggings but as comfortable as PJs and can be dressed up for down. I have also declared them the ultimate airplane pants because they are super comfortable, cute, and, while not thick, provide a bit of warmth. And yes, they have pockets! They also come with me on every trip.

Encircled clothing is ethically made in Toronto, Canada. Women’s clothing ranges in size from xs-xxl and can be ordered online at: www.encircled.ca

Best Dresses for Curvy Bodies

While I used to be a tomboy as a child, I am now 100% a dress girl. Part of it is because I think they are so pretty, part of it is because it is so easy, and part of it is because I found a brand that has a huge collection of styles and colours that fit my body really well. The brand is  City Chic and I have a closet full of their dresses right now.

City Chic has stores in the USA and Australia but does offer shipping abroad. As a Canadian, I can sometimes find their products at The Bay, but the best selection by far is online on the official City Chic website. They have dresses for every occasion and in a variety of styles so whether you want something loose and flowy or tight to hug your curves, you’ll find options here. City Chic is made for mid and plus size women so their sizing goes from size 12 (XXS) t0 24 (XXL). 

Another cute place for size inclusive dresses (xs-4x) is Cherry Velvet . This brand is Canadian and create vintage, pin-up style pieces that are super cute and can be fun to travel with as well (although you might need to iron them before wearing!). 

Best Jeans for Curvy Women

I hate buying jeans. I have thick thighs and a big butt and a smaller waist and nothing ever seems to fit properly. However, on suggestion from some friends I finally tried American Eagle curvy jeans and immediately bought three pairs. These are the only jeans I have found (so far) that actually work for my body. They have all kinds of styles but, being a millennial (who also lives in Canada where you want to be able to tuck your pants into winter boots) I’m partial to the skinny jean. The Ne(x)t level ones are super stretchy and comfortable. Recently I’m also loving the wide leg dreamy drop styles which are super soft and actually comfortable. American Eagle offers sizes up to 24 and a variety of inseam lengths. 

Best Leggings for Curvy Women

Like jeans, I struggled to find leggings that fit me well. Again, the whole smaller waist and bigger bottom led to lots of fit problems. Usually, waist bands sliding down which meant every time I hiked/walked/worked out I would have to stop to pull up my pants. I tried all kinds of brands and styles before landing on one very specific pair from lululemon: The Wunder Train tights. They don’t fall down and they aren’t see through and I cannot recommend them enough. Lululemon currently carries up to a size 20 but keep in mind the fit on their leggings is very different than jean size. I wear 18 jeans and 12 in these lululemon leggings, so keep that in mind when figuring out sizing! 

Best Travel Swimsuits for Curvy Women

Swimsuits and wetsuits have been one of my biggest pet peeves as a water love and scuba diver. Especially when, on top of travel, I live on a lake at home in Canada during the summer months. I’ve tried tons of swimsuit brands over the years and have several favourites. In fact I created a whole blog post about my favourite swim-wear brands. You can find it here.

Best Travel Outwear for Plus Size Women

Outerwear can be another pain in the butt to buy, but being Canadian I have to have several different coats for the different seasons. I’ve bought coats from plenty of brands throughout the years, but when it comes to keeping warm or dry, my favourite brand is Columbia.

I currently have two Columbia jackets; a warm winter one perfect for those -40C days (yes, I said -40C. Welcome to Canada) and a lightweight waterproof rain coat. The raincoat is perfect for travel because it folds up into its own pocket, is lightweight, breathable, and most importantly: it is waterproof.

Columbia products can easily be found in sporting stores as well as online on amazon. The raincoat I’m wearing above can be found here. 

Best Anti-Theft Pieces for Curvy Women

As a solo female traveller, I think that Clever Travel Companion is one of the coolest clothing lines out there. Their products; which range from underwear to pants to tank tops to hoodies, are all pickpocket proof. Secret pockets that are perfect for cash, passport, and banking cards keep your important items safe and concealed.

While the colours and designs may be plain and simple, the designs are flattering. I tried out their travel tank with 2 secret pockets a couple years ago and it’s now a staple in my luggage. Check out my review for it here .

Clever Travel Companion clothing can be ordered online at: clevertravelcompanion.com . They will ship around the world, and sizes run from XS-XXXL.

45 Comments

Great post. I found many of the sites suggested very intriguing. I will definitely be adding to my travel wardrobe. With the checked bag fees and carry-on space crush I need to minimize my travel gear.

These brands are all lightweight and pack easy as well! I love them all and take them with me everywhere.

I’m traveling to Ireland and was excited for your post but most things listed are no longer available. Super bummed.

Not sure what you mean? I just checked them all and the only thing currently unavailable is the Lululemon leggings I recommend. I’ve been keeping an eye on them since Christmas and I’m not sure if they are just out of stock or being discontinued. I have ordered a new style to try and it should be coming next week- will share if I love them. But everything else I’ve listed is available.

So refreshing to read some tips for us curvy girls!

I thought it was about time 😉 I’m not the only one!

I think you did an excellent job by covering the topic of travel outfits for curvy women without compromising their chic style

Yassss thank you!! As a fellow curvy girl I know it can be extra challenging to find clothes that are comfortable and functional enough for travel. Some awesome ideas here I’m def going to try out!

Yes! I am so grateful to have found these brands so happy to share with my fellow curvy travellers 😉

some really great suggestions here Hannah. I split my (only pair) trousers on our trip to Australia. Couldn’t face trying to replace them to patch job and how for the best. Can’t predict all drama when travelling!

Oh god thats my fear when I go to Asia haha

That’s my biggest fear. My sister and I are going to Thailand later this month and we’re both 6′ tall so if our pants or shoes give out we are S.O.L.

haha yeah sometimes its worth it to pack extra 😉

Side note, good for you for putting a swimwear shot up. I took some shots in Bangkok at a swish infinity pool and haven’t yet found the confidence to share them publicly. Bravo curvy sister, bravo.

haha thanks 🙂

How do you find the Cherry Velvet dresses, in terms of wrinkling? I have four or five of them, but hadn’t really thought about taking them travelling, as I thought that they’d just wrinkle up, and I usually stay in hostels that don’t have irons readily available!!

I am starting to love SweetLegs — I just wish that they were a natural fibre, as I usually try to avoid the synthetics in the crotch area, especially in the hot sweaty summer! But I definitely ordered a bunch today with their 20% off sale this weekend:)

Definitely checking out the other suggestions here!

I find if I hang my cherry velvet dresses over a door or in a closet it helps get the wrinkles out. Can also hang it in the bathroom when you shower- the steam will help 🙂

I love Eddie Bauer’s Girl on the Go insulated trench. It stands up to all sorts of weather. I’ve worn it in pouring rain in summer without the lining and stayed dry, and in the snow and wind in winter with the lining and have stayed warm. It’s low profile enough for city travel.

Good to know! I have a couple things from EB but they only carry plus online (with ridiculous shipping) or in the USA.

I found this site yesterday and love it! My husband is very uninterested in traveling outside of North America and I can’t contain my wanderlust anymore. When you travel solo, do you try to keep it down to a large carry on for most trips or do you check your bags every time?

Thanks Dana! It depends on how long and where I’m travelling. For 1-3 weeks I do carry ons. But when I do multi-month trips I tend to check my bags.

I just found your site and really enjoy it. Great pictures!

One of my favorite travel pieces is the Columbia Pardon My Trench. It’s a belted jacket with trench detailing and a hood and zip up pockets. It’s sleek enough to work in a city but sturdy enough for light hiking, trekking. And it fold up very small. Runs up to 3X.

Columbia have awesome coats

Glad I found this post! Planning a 3 week trip to Italy and Greece (includes a 12 day cruise). I’m sure your suggestions and websites will help me. Great to see fellow Canadian suggestions too.

ooh fun! Definitely check out Diane Kroe pieces for that! The convertible aspects will help you pack lighter + her clothes are beautiful.

Thanks for these ideas. One cmpany I like for clothing is Blue Sky. Available online or in person in BC, this company makes bamboo clothing in real people sizes. I especially like their skort which is knee length with pockets. It can be dressed up or down. My travel wardrobe is almost 100% Blue Sky.

I’ll have to check them out. Thanks!

Thank you so much, thanks to you I’ve found cute swimdresses and city chic was awesome for me!

Yay! glad to help

Thank so much for this article. I will definitely be checking out all of these sites!

Happy to help!

[…] My journey towards self-acceptance and body positivity has been one hell of an adventure but it’s incredible how much has changed over the past few years. I enjoy checking myself out in the mirrors that I used to avoid. I buy more form-fitting clothing, I have a drawer filled full of swimsuits, including multiple bikinis, and I feel adorable in sundresses. (PS: You can find my picks for curvy-friendly travel clothing here) […]

I love your sandals. Where are the from

The gold ones? Birkenstocks!

Curvy and plus, fine, but I am also TALL. Almost impossible to find the combo. Most talls only add leg length and do not add to rise.

Have you tried American Eagle curvy jeans? I’ve tried them since I wrote this and they are now my new favourite. They come in a taller length and my friend who is 6 feet LOVES them

[…] For more of my clothing picks, checking out my list of the best travel clothing for curvy women.  […]

Please expand to include those of us above 24/3X. I’m glad the industry is starting to be more inclusive, but apparently they think travel and life stops at size 22/24. It’s even worse if you happen to be short (like me) or tall.

Some brands on this list to go to larger sizes but, agree, the sad fact is a lot of brands don’t. I continue to update this list as I can to be inclusive but I also focus on highlighting brands that I know and use and trust. I don’t just list random brands because they offer certain sizes.

Looking for lightweight dresses. Love some of the ones you wear. But have been bitten with shipping to Canada. When you order to Canada and have delivered by DHL do you get a charge from them to clear customs plus the customs cost? When I looked it up, it looked like a 13% customs fee. Worth shipping to Canada if on sale?

yes the shipping and duty can be brutal. I try to keep anything purchased from abroad under $100 to avoid the duty fees!

Hi, I’ve been reading a lot of information about good travel wear for curvy, larger ladies and one thing I’m having trouble finding is anyone discussing good bras for those skinny strap dresses and tops. I would love someone to give me some insight.

I live in Alberta, Canada so it would helpful to have some information on bras I can purchase in Canadian funds. Thank you.

My go to is Dessee brand (Penningtons carries them). They have a convertible bra that works really well for me. I usually go strapless under my thin-strapped dresses.

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The Best Travel Pants for Men and Women

Megan Johnson

Megan is a Senior Editor, SEO for SmarterTravel Media.

Megan started with SmarterTravel Media’s Airfarewatchdog way back in 2008, moved over to FamilyVacationCritic, and finally SmarterTravel in 2021. Originally from Massachusetts, she has lived in Nova Scotia, London, and New York City. She has spent nearly every summer (or at least part of it) on Prince Edward Island. She has started to go out of her comfort zone while traveling- most recently exploring caves and boogie boarding on a FlowRider.

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Pants are probably the top choice for what to wear when traveling, over shorts and skirts. However, not all pants are created equal. 

Pants can come with a variety of problems: waistbands digging into your skin, fabric wrinkling, or not being able to wear them with any other outfits. You may find yourself wishing you could just wear sweatpants and call it a day. However, sweatpants don’t exactly have a reputation of being stylish, so,  if you want to travel and still have a little style, we’ve got you covered. 

There are four key elements that go into the best travel pants: comfort, fabric, style, and versatility. These options for men and women tick all the boxes, so you know you’re making a good investment. Below you’ll find categories for athleisure, activewear, and business casual, as well as many styles including plus-size options.

Table of Contents

Best athleisure travel pants, aday turn it up pant.

Comfort: 4/5. These tailored, slim-fit pants are available from size XS to XL and are comfortable for all shapes and sizes. Two side pockets make them ideal for a busy travel day and the elastic waistband adds to a high comfort level.

Fabric: 5/5. These pants are stretchy, pill-resistant, breathable, and thermo-regulating.

Style: 5/5. When paired with a button-down, these pants can be dressed up; when paired with a tee, they can be dressed down. The three-inch cuff at the hem adds a stylish detail, too.

Versatility: 5/5. These go straight from the plane to a casual dinner or meeting.

Lululemon ABC Pant Classic Warpstreme

Comfort: 4/5. A favorite among male travelers, Lululemon’s ABC line of pants is favored for comfort and stretch.

Fabric: 5/5. A patented fabric, Warpstreme provides a coveted four-way stretch. It is also machine washable and can be dried in the dryer on low.

Style: 5/5. These pants look like a classic work pant and can easily be worn in a casual setting or dressed up with a linen or cotton blazer.

Versatility: 4/5. My boyfriend literally lives in these … at the office, while traveling, on the golf course, or hanging out at a brewery, these are his go-tos. The combo of style and comfort can’t be beaten when looking for a travel pant for men. Running a marathon is just about the only thing he wouldn’t do in them.

Duluth Trading NoGA Namastash Slim Leg Pants

Comfort: 5/5. These ultimate travel pants from Duluth have not one, but six pockets to stow all of your day-of-travel essentials. The three-inch wide waistband (with interior drawstring) is tummy-flattening, and the fit is designed for both curvy and straight body shapes.

Fabric: 5/5. Duluth’s special NoGA fabric is silky and super stretchy. It has more than 850 five-star reviews, meaning that it must be that good. Fans of the fabric rave about its figure-flattering features and support. It also wicks moisture, has UPF 40 sun protection and is machine-washable.

Style: 3/5. While this pair of women’s travel pants is slightly more like a legging, the back pocket and slightly flared leg details dress ‘em up.

Versatility: 4/5. These pants are slightly more casual and could also be worn as activewear.

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Women’s UA Motion Ankle Leggings

Comfort: 5/5. Not too tight and not too loose, these Motion Ankle Leggings make for a super comfortable trip. 

Fabric: 5/5. The ultra-soft double-knit fabric is breathable & comfortable, and the 4-way stretch material makes these pants your new go-to. 

Style: 4/5. There isn’t too much special about these leggings- they are just that- leggings, but they are definitely a step up from some basic leggings. 

Versatility: 4/5. Leggings can always be used for several different occasions, easily dressed down with a sweatshirt, but can quickly change into a nicer outfit with a dressier tunic and cute flats, heels, or boots. 

Alo ⅞ High-Waist Airlift Legging

Comfort: 5/5. Described as “second skin,” these high-waist leggings from Alo may just be the closest thing you’ll find to traveling with no pants on (or in pajamas at least). Super comfortable 

Fabric: 5/5. The double-layered waistband provides comfortable support without rolling down and the compression fabric fits tight to the body without being too constricting. 

Style: 4/5. Like the Motion Ankle leggings above, nothing is too unique about these leggings. They are a stylish and well-executed basic that will get you through travel days with ease.

Versatility: 4/5. Great for the plane, working out during your trip, or as a warm base layer to an outfit in colder climates.

Athleta Women’s Venice Jogger

Comfort: 5/5. Super soft fabric and a knit waistband give these pants the ultimate stamp of approval when it comes to comfort.

Fabric: 5/5. The Sculptek Light™ fabric is super light and stretchy. It’s also quick-drying, breathable, and wrinkle-resistant.

Style: 5/5. This pair of travel pants is semi-fitted with a tapered leg and has a mid-rise, sitting just below the natural waist. Four pockets (two secured front and two back) make accessing your essentials on travel days even easier.

Versatility: 5/5. These travel pants make up the perfect travel day uniform but can also be dressed up with a silk blouse and heels to go out on the town.

Patagonia Women’s Happy Hike Studio Pants

Comfort: 5/5. The pull-on jogger style of these pants couldn’t be more comfortable, especially with the knit waistband and hidden drawstring cord.

Fabric: 4/5. The lightweight fabric is ideal for warmer climates and water repellent with 50+ UPF.

Style: 5/5. These pants have four large pockets, ideal on travel days, and the elasticized cuffs allow you to adjust the length from capris to full length.

Versatility: 4/5. I personally love the jogger-style pants for versatility. You can hike, bike, or work out in these and keep them on for dinner or other casual activities.

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Public Rec All Day Every Day Pant

Comfort: 4/5. As Public Rec itself says of these pants , “a more stylish alternative to sweatpants, a more comfortable alternative to jeans.” With an elastic waistband and interior drawstring, you have all the comfort elements of the perfect travel pant for men.

Fabric: 4/5. This pair of travel pants have a spandex-nylon blend that is breathable and moisture-wicking.

Style: 4/5. Elements like a faux front fly and tapered bottoms give this pair of travel pants a smart finish.

Versatility: 5/5. Reviewers comment that they have ordered these pants in every color because they can’t wear them enough.

Best Activewear Travel Pants

Coalatree unisex slim fit trail head pants.

Comfort: 4/5. The elastic waistband and drawstring are super comfortable and the fabric is thicker than that of most hiking pants, but still stretches. These pants have a 4.5 star rating based on 1966 reviews.

Fabric: 4/5. These pants are waterproof, quick-drying, antimicrobial, and tear-resistant, and they have a four-way stretch.

Style: 4/5. The unisex style is flattering on most figures and has four handy-yet-stylish pockets.

Versatility: 4/5. While these pants don’t do double duty for something like a business dinner, they could pass for sit-down meals at a casual restaurant or nature lodge. Plus, you can wash them easily and will get multiple re-wears.

Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Pants

Comfort: 5/5. The soft and stretchy fabric of these pants make them perfect for travel. With a snap closure waistband, they don’t gape. They also feature two side-zip security pockets.

Fabric: 5/5. The nylon-elastane blend is soft and stretchy. Other fabric features include UPF 50 sun protection and water and stain repellency.

Style: 4/5. Featuring a mid-rise and straight leg, these pants have a feminine and flattering fit.

Versatility: 4/5. These convertible pants come in tons of neutral-colored options to go with any outdoorsy vacation. While these travel pants do have a sportier look, they can be dressed up.

Patagonia Men’s Quandary Pants

Comfort: 5/5. These pants have a curved waistband to reduce gapping and help them stay in place during activities.

Fabric: 5/5. They’re water repellent, lightweight, quick-drying, stretch-woven, sun protective with 40+ UPF—can the fabric be any better?

Style: 4/5. The slim-straight fit is designed to be stylish and comfortable, but reviewers note that the pants are best for lean to medium builds. Five pockets make this pair of pants even better on travel days for easy access to essentials.    

Versatility: 5/5. Great in all seasons, the Quandary Pants go from trail to town.

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Best Business Casual Travel Pants

Betabrand dress pant yoga pants.

Comfort: 5/5. These pants were made famous by a crowdfunded campaign and are known for their comfort. With a thicker waistband and super stretch material, reviewers rave about comfort.

Fabric: 5/5. The rayon-blend fabric is machine-washable, wrinkle-resistant, and stretchy.

Style: 4/5. The Dress Pant Yoga Pants come in a variety of cuts: boot-cut, straight-leg, skinny-leg, and cropped-leg to fit almost any body type.

Versatility: 4/5. These are the ultimate comfortable dress pant. They look better dressed up but are comfortable enough to be a staple in your travel day uniform.

Cotidie Harriet Trousers

Comfort: 4/5. With faux back pockets, front pockets, and a tailored leg, these trousers don’t look like leggings, but they sure are as comfortable as leggings are, thanks to the stretchy waistband and elastane-blend material.

Fabric: 4/5. These pants are made with StellaForm, a nylon and elastane blend that’s machine washable, stretchy, wrinkle-resisting, and moisture-wicking.

Style: 4/5. With a slim leg and fitted look, these chino-style work pants are stylish and practical for business travelers.

Versatility: 4/5. These are one of the dressier-looking pairs of travel pants on the list, so if you need to look like you’re at the top of your game while traveling, choose these.

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Bluffworks Ascender Chino Pants

Comfort: 4/5. While the waistband of these pants looks like a chino, it’s actually stretchy for a more comfortable fit. They are also designed to hold everything you would need in a travel day, including an anti-theft hidden money pocket and two designated phone pockets for the things that matter most.

Fabric: 4/5. Wrinkle-resistant, machine-washable, soft, and lightweight, these pants check all the boxes.

Style: 5/5. This pair of travel pants for men is the classic chino style, so if that’s the style of travel pants you’re looking for, these are it.

Versatility: 3/5. These are definitely more for dinners and the office, but equally comfortable as activewear.

Linksoul 5-Pocket Boardwalker Pant

Comfort: 4/5. These pants have five pockets, so you’ll have no shortage of options for stowing your travel day essentials. Reviewers love the stretchy fabric for comfort and a modern fit without being too tight.

Fabric: 4/5. Designed for golfers, these travel pants are breathable, lightweight, and quick-drying, made from a soft cotton-poly-spandex blend.

Style: 5/5. These pants are styled like more traditional pants.

Versatility: 4/5. Go from the plane straight to the green in these versatile travel pants.

Bluffworks AirlineTrevi Pant

Comfort: 5/5. These business casual pants are made from lightweight polyester with some stretch. When paired with the elastic waistband, they couldn’t be more comfortable if they tried.

Fabric: 5/5. The fabric is machine washable and provides odor and moisture-wicking control, and it doesn’t wrinkle.

Style: 5/5. The polished pants are designed to look like business casual chinos.

Versatility: 4/5. Whether you are traveling for business or just want a refined look, these pants are stylish, comfortable, and provide travelers with an extra perk: eight pockets (and three of them even have a zipper closure).

prAna Men’s Brion Pants

Comfort: 5/5. Stretchy and breathable, these pants are made with a spandex blend. Reviewers call them “outrageously comfortable.”

Fabric: 5/5. prAna’s sustainable, stretchy “ReZion” fabric is wrinkle-, water-, and stain-repellent, and is lightweight, quick-drying, and UV-protective.

Style: 5/5. The slim-fit-style pant is available with multiple inseam options, making them flattering on most body types. Plus, the five pockets keep all of your travel day essentials secure.

Versatility: 5/5. Whether you’re traveling, doing indoor climbing, or going out to dinner, these pants work.

Travel Shoes That Are Good for Your Feet

Vuori Ripstop Pant

Comfort: 4/5. These pants feature an elastic waistband, are stretchy, and have a draw cord for the perfect fit. The slimmer fit does mean a narrow leg, so size up for ultimate comfort.

Fabric: 5/5. The DuraTerra™ ripstop fabric made from 98% Organic Cotton, 2% Elastane features a two-way stretch

Style: 5/5. The midrise waist and slim fit make these a polished look, and they can be easily dressed up or down. 

Versatility: 5/5. The slim fit of these pants makes them ideal for whatever occasion comes your way – you can easily go from a flight to a business meeting in them, and smarten them up with a jacket or nice blouse and dressier shoes. 

Everlane 90’s Cheeky Jean

Comfort: 4/5. While many jeans may not be super comfortable for travel, these jeans from Everlane beg to differ. Once they are broken in, these jeans will be your go-to for comfort. 

Fabric: 4/5. Unlike most of the pants we have here, these jeans have no stretch to them, but their loose-fitting, lived in style still makes them super comfortable, despite no stretch. After washing, they do take a bit before they loosen up. 

Style: 5/5. These jeans are straight and super cute. Like any jeans, they are easily dressed down or up, with the right shoes, shirt, and accessories. 

Versatility: 5/5. Isn’t versatility the point of jeans? You can wear them for almost any occasion, and they work great for going from the airport to a meeting or dinner- just add a belt and change your shoes! 

Boston Proper Beyond the Travel Pant

Comfort: 5/5. You can never have too many dressy yoga pants like these travel pants from Boston Proper. They are super comfortable for travel and work. 

Fabric: 4/5 . Made with 95% nylon/5% spandex, these pants are stretchy, but may seem a bit flimsier than you’d like. However, they don’t wrinkle, making them perfect to pack in your suitcase. 

Style: 5/5. From the yoga studio, the airplane, to the office, the style of these travel pants cannot be beaten. Plus, they are available in three lengths. 

Versatility: 5/5. Whether you dress them up or down, these pants can fit the bill no matter what the occasion is. 

FAQ About Travel Pants

What are the best travel pants for long flights.

As most things, it depends on your circumstances. If you are just traveling for leisure, a basic legging will do the trick for women, and you can’t go wrong with the Women’s UA Motion Ankle Leggings . They are a typical legging, with a pocket to keep anything you want handy while traveling, they allow for movement, and are super breathable, making them perfect for any trip you take. For men, the Public Rec All Day Everyday pants are our pick. More stylish than sweatpants, but just as comfortable, you’ll be a happy traveler when you wear these! As far as something dressier goes, for guys we pick the Prana Brion Pant II . They are super comfortable with 5 convenient pockets, and can easily be dressed up when you need them to be. For Women, our top choice is the Cotidie Harriet Trousers they are insanely comfortable, yet super stylish. 

What are the most comfortable travel pants? 

This depends on your personal preference, but typically, the simpler, and the more stretch, the more comfortable they are going to be. Alo’s ⅞ High-Waist Airlift leggings are a basic legging, but are soft, stretchy, and are probably the closest you will come to wearing pajamas while you travel. Again, for men the Public Rec All Day Everyday are going to give you the most comfort while on the road. 

Should I wear shorts or pants on a plane?

It’s really a personal choice—but just keep in mind that it can get chilly on airplanes. You also may want to consider  your bare legs hitting up against the seat at the airport and on the plane, if you aren’t going to be able to shower shortly after you land, you may want to consider pants so you don’t have to worry about germs. 

What material is best for travel?

Again, this can boil down to personal preference, however, a lightweight, breathable, stretchy material is going to be best. Typically stretchier material won’t wrinkle, which is an added bonus on top of comfort.

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7 Best Travel Pants for Women Who Want Comfort and Style

Never fly in sweats (or jeans!) again.

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.

We've reviewed this guide and continue to stand by our picks.

Airplanes are uncomfortable enough as is, so on a long day of travel, you want to look put-together but most importantly, you want to be comfortable . Luckily, you don't have to sacrifice style for comfort: We found the best travel pants for women that are designed to be breathable, stylish and cozy — not to mention remain wrinkle-free. That means they're great for every destination and activity, from shopping in Europe to hiking in the Southwest.

Our top picks:

Best overall travel pants, betabrand dress pant yoga pants.

Best Value Travel Pants

The gym people women's joggers pants with pockets.

Best Luxury Travel Pants

Anatomie skyler travel pants.

Best Skinny Travel Pants

Prana briann pants.

Best Leggings for Travel

Athleta salutation stash pocket ii 7/8 tight.

Best Anti-Theft Travel Pants

Scottevest margaux cargaux travel pant, best active travel pants, the north face aphrodite 2.0 capri.

After shopping our top picks, be sure to check out our favorite travel dresses and the most comfortable walking shoes for women to stay cozy and stylish while on vacation.

Right out of your suitcase, these pants are work trip-ready ! Available in straight, boot-cut, skinny, cropped, six-button or wide-leg, BetaBrand offers super comfy pants that look professional enough to wear to the office. Ideal for work travel, the button and zipper are just for show — the fabric is a super stretchy rayon, nylon and spandex knit that feels like wearing yoga pants .

When boarding a long flight, all you want to wear are your comfy PJs, but still look put-together in the airport. These joggers will keep you cozy while still looking polished . With over 12,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, these joggers are beloved for being super-lightweight and breathable. Did we mention they're less than $30?

The Anatomie brand uses its activewear expertise to design travel pieces that flatter many different body types. These are its best-selling travel pants featuring a signature stretch made from cotton, polyamide and a bit of elastane to make them soft, abrasion-resistant and elastic. We recommend this style for straighter body types, while the brand's Luisa pants are better suited for curvy women.

The Briann Pant by prAna is a skinny pant that doesn't constrict you. They're cute enough to wear out on the town, but are functional to work up a sweat in. With a stretch woven fabric and a water-resistant finish, you can wear these on the trails or exploring a new city.

Because the fabric is nylon and spandex, they're abrasion-resistant and will keep you cool when building up a sweat. Plus, they're UPF 50 for increased sun protection. Coming in three in-seam lengths, you can find a pair that fits, whether you’re tall or petite.

Workout clothes can be for more than exercising (hello, athleisure!). Athleta has an entire collection focused on travel wear, and these pants were a top performer in our leggings test for their soft and slightly compressive feel. They're also flattering, so you can dress them up. We love that they come in regular, petite, tall and plus sizes — plus they have pockets, for easy access to your passport or phone while traveling, too.

Losing your wallet to a pickpocket can easily ruin your vacation relaxation. These anti-theft pants by SCOTTeVEST have 11 pockets to keep your valuables secure without needing a purse that can put you at risk. They're made from nylon, rayon and spandex so they're designed to be wrinkle-resistant and breathable. These cargo pants will keep you safe and stylish.

When going hiking or exploring nature, you want stay cool and protected but still stylish . These pants by the North Face are gathered on the sides to create a chic ruched effect. They are made from nylon and elastane so they're designed to keep you cool while you move. You can also keep your valuables safe thanks to the secure zip pockets.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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• InStyle Picks

The 15 Best Travel Pants of 2024, Tested & Reviewed

Even if you’re flying coach, these comfortable pants will make you feel like you’re in first class.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

What to Keep in Mind

Your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Frank & Eileen Murphy / Everlane

When it comes to outfit strategy for travel, some have it down to a science, having pre-picked the  perfect travel bag ,  comfortable sneakers , and  makeup bags  to ensure a smooth transition from point A to point B. But an equally important outfit component for passing time in a car, on a plane, or a train is an easy pair of travel pants.

“A good pair of travel pants will be breathable and nonrestrictive but still feel put-together,” says California-based professional stylist  Kat Eves . “The idea is to look low-effort, not no-effort, so you’re ready for whatever adventure is waiting at your destination.”

We procured 40 popular pairs in a range of styles and sent them to a group of testers . They wore the bottoms while traveling various ways and distances—from New York to Florida, from San Francisco to Hawaii, and across the Atlantic Ocean to Europe, to name a few. We then rated each pair based on fit, comfort, durability, design, and value. Through squats and stretches, gate-chasing, and layover lounging, we narrowed our initial list to these best travel pants endorsed by yours truly.

Best Overall

Lululemon wunder train high-rise tight with pockets.

Why We Love It: We wore these leggings on multiple four-hour flights, and were able to hustle hands-free through the airport, thanks to the stretchy deep side pockets that securely held our Airpods, phone, ticket, and ID. Even with so many items attached to our legs, it didn’t feel heavy or stiff and the high-waisted pants, which feature a hidden drawcord, remained secure along our midriff (even when we were bloating). And with the choice of two different inseams—23 and 25 inches—they fit throughout our entire body. The soft, sweat-wicking material never pilled and maintained its shape and color through multiple washes. Given the breathable qualities, the bottoms left us a bit cold in the air. We easily looked past this, though, because the leggings simultaneously regulated our temperature once we stepped off the plane into the tropics and we never overheated.

Who It’s For: Travelers heading to warmer destinations, like Puerto Rico, or simply run hot, will like these breathable leggings. Especially if workouts or long hikes are in the itinerary, there is no better travel legging than this multi-purpose, pocketed, moisture-wicking option.

Size: 0–20   | Material: Nylon, Lycra elastane, polyester | Colors: 8 | Pockets:  3

Best Budget

Libin cargo joggers.

Why We Love It: Most of the travel pants on our list are around $100, but these affordable bottoms include many of the same well-thought-out details for less than half the standard price. The soft and stretchy polyester-spandex blend felt comfortable throughout a six-hour drive and allowed us to take long walks and hikes without feeling restrained. With a toddler in tow, the fabric’s flexibility and breathability were invaluable (we don’t have to tell you that running after children while traveling is extremely tiring), but we were most thankful for the five functional pockets that allowed us to travel nearly hands-free. They run a little small, however, so if you prefer a bit more breathing room, we suggest sizing up.

Who It’s For: Those who despise carrying around bags will be delighted to find a plethora of pockets throughout the pants, where we kept our wallets, keys, phones, and even a tantrum-soothing-binky. It doesn’t have the most high-fashion appeal, so we recommend it more for people who favor functionality and need a great pair of pants for hikes, runs, and long transits.

Size: XS–3XL | Material: Polyester, spandex | Colors: 13 | Pockets:  5

Best Splurge

Frank & eileen murphy billion dollar pant.

Frank & Eileen

Why We Love It: With a name like the Billion Dollar Pant, we had high expectations for how these travel pants would perform, and we were blown away from the moment they landed on our doorstep—the pants arrived with tea samples and a typewritten note. Flashy arrival aside, slipping these on made us feel expensive. While they look like a typical pair of cropped work slacks, they felt more like custom-made high-quality leggings that gave us the freedom to move without restrictions. The stretchy waistband prevented any uncomfortable digging, and by the time our flight landed, we didn’t feel the need to freshen up or change as we normally do because the pants looked just as crisp as when we took off.

Who It’s For: Business travelers and space-conscious packers (these pants can be worn for a variety of occasions) will find great usage out of these pants. Although they look like crisp office pants, we even wore them for some nighttime yoga and were impressed with how well they moved with us. It’s like there’s nothing these pants can’t do—well, in fact, there is one thing it falls short on. They lack functional pockets, as they’re only stitched in for decoration.

Size: XS–XL | Material: Cotton, spandex  | Colors: 9 | Pockets:  2

Best Plus-Size

Wayre jetsetter trouser.

Why We Love It: Out of all the travel pants we tested, the Jetsetter Trouser from Wayre has the most expansive size range—going up to a size 24—and is also offered in a tall version . We want to discuss the incredibly smart pocket placements (there are six!) which were intentionally created with travelers in mind. Along with the standard front and back pockets, a mini pouch lays on the front of the pants, while a hidden pickpocket-proof compartment with a zipper sits on the side to store your passport. Even with it stuffed to the brim, these pants stayed snugly in place thanks to the buttoned waistband that featured a sneaky elasticized back. Even though the elastic didn’t fully reach to the front, the band still had plenty of give and easily expanded when we sat down—which Eves says is a make-or-break attribute for plus-sized women. “Our bodies expand as we sit down, so you want to make sure that when you take a seat, the waistband rests at a comfortable spot and your hips and thighs aren’t tightly restricted,” she explains.

Who It’s For: You want it all: style, functionality, and comfort. And while some call it ambitious, we can attest that it’s completely possible with these pants. The legs of the pants are made of the brand’s Air-flex technology (a material fabricated from plastic bottles), which is flexible and bends with the body. Along with the stretch, the fabric is completely spill- and odor-proof, as well as wrinkle- and UV-resistant—so even if someone bumps into your tray table and spills your wine onto the pants containing your passport, you’ll likely be safe.

Size: 00–24 | Material: Aire-flex (recycled plastic bottles) | Colors: 6 | Pockets:  6

Best Petite

Beyond yoga midi high waisted legging.

Why We Love It: When in doubt, travel in leggings—they’re always going to be a comfortable go-to for the plane. But for petites specifically, this option from Beyond Yoga is perhaps the best you could choose. It has a 24-inch inseam length that fits perfectly on a 5-foot, 1-inch frame. They’re soft and light as a feather—the embodiment of a second-skin feeling. The high stretch allowed us to comfortably move around without feeling constricted, and the moisture-wicking fabric regulated our body temperature through transit.

Who It’s For: With the shorter inseam length, we’re delighted to recommend these leggings to our petite ladies. They’re also great for anyone tired of the same old black legging, as the various color options (like purple, red, or orange) add some vibrancy to our closets. It’s slightly pricier than a typical legging, but we truly believe that comfort, especially for a long-haul flight, deserves some splurging.

Size: XS–XL | Material: Polyester, elastane | Colors: 7 | Pockets:  0

Frame The Jetset Flare Jeans

Anthropologie

Why We Love It: Ever seen a celeb travel outfit ? They hop off a plane and simply look dashing (a far cry from the lot of us, am I right)? Many of them, including Kendall Jenner and Giselle Bündchen, are wearing denim from Frame. Seeing that the label came out with a flight-specific denim line called the Jetset, we decided to put them to the test… on a 14.5-hour flight to Japan because we’re committed to our research. What we loved was the soft and stretchy denim hugging, but not tightening, around our thighs. Actually, we could only really feel the pants on our upper legs as the flare starts at the knees and doesn’t touch the skin from there on down—a fact that certainly added to its comfort level. We also loved the slip-on style that lacked zips or buttons, giving it a casual elegance appropriate for flights. And of course, as the style-conscious consumers we are, we can’t deny how elegant and put-together these pants made us feel. The 31.5-inch inseam length was perfect on our 5-foot-8 frame, which is a rare treat for us tall girlies.

Who It’s For: Every moment is a fashion moment and the airplane isle is your runway. While you would never give up comfort for style, you believe you can have the best of both worlds, and these pants prove those beliefs true. Normally the idea of wearing jeans on a plane would make us crinkle our noses, but these jeans were specifically crafted with travel in mind, making them extra stretchy and soft. Take note of the unique sizing, however, as they’re offered in three sizes that represent different US sizing ranges.

Size: 0–2 | Material: Cotton, polyester, elastane | Colors: 4 | Pockets:  0

Best for Work Trips

Everlane pant.

Why We Love It: When we need to be prepared to walk directly into a meeting after a lengthy train ride or flight, we rely on the Everlane Dream Pant. We’ve considered replacing every pair of black work pants in our wardrobe with these wrinkle-resistant trousers because while maintaining a professional flair suitable for a boardroom meeting, they still feel more comfortable than our most-broken-in pair of jeans, yet look more sophisticated than our usual travel leggings. These feature hidden adjustable drawstrings to customize how tight or loose they fit. As for the mainly cotton fabric, it felt soft, smooth, and breathable, striking that hard-to-achieve middle ground of weightiness.

Who It’s For: Whether you’re flying business or not, these pants are for people going on short work trips where time is scarce and bags are minimal. You want to be able to go from flight to meeting, and the wrinkle-resistant fabric (even through a 12-hour flight we boarded) that’s oh-so-comfy will allow you to do just that. The crisp tapered look might feel a little cold in the airplane AC (we recommend high-socks) but looks great with loafers in a boardroom.

Size: XXS–4XL | Material: Cotton, modal, elastane | Colors: 5 | Pockets:  2

Best Lightweight

Everlane the easy pant.

Why We Love It: These featherweight cotton bottoms flexed with our bodies, and thanks to the elastic waistband, kept us comfortable while we waited through a four-hour flight delay. And while most cozy pants look, well, loungy, these were elegant enough to style with multiple vacation looks, from dinner at the hotel to an exploration of the local communities. The bottoms’ adaptability made our trip more enjoyable since we were able to create trendy, functional outfits while saving space in our carry-on. Compared to the previously mentioned Everlane Dream Pant , these are much more casual, due to their waistband and flowy fit. But both pants could use a pocket redesign. Although The Easy Pant’s pockets were quite large, heavier items (namely, our cell phone) dragged the waistband down.

Who It’s For: Due to the lightweight nature of the pants, this option is an excellent choice for overpackers and overheaters. While on, they felt friendly on the legs and easy to move around in. If we were to pack them up, they don’t take up a ton of space. Plus, the wide size range and elastic waistband design make them comfortable for practically everyone.

Size: XXS–2XL   | Material: Cotton, elastane | Colors: 6 | Pockets:  4

Best Dressy

Spanx the perfect pant, slim straight.

Spanx 

Why We Love It: We can always count on Spanx to deliver dressy, body-contouring pants that feel like leggings. The weighty ponte fabric felt much more luxe than other items we’ve purchased from the brand and looked extremely elegant without skimping on comfort. In typical Spanx fashion, every time we slid them on we felt secure but not restricted—the pants lifted and sculpted our backside and never once sagged. The thicker waistband didn’t dig into our stomach, even after hours of sitting, and because the pant legs themselves were wider, we were able to move freely. We washed them multiple times throughout our two-week test and they maintained their shape. As for the faux pockets, they enhanced the dressy factor, but the lack of functionality was rather annoying on our travel days. Ultimately, we looked past the design flaw because of how versatile the pants are; beyond traveling, we wore them multiple times to dinners, the office, and for other special occasions.

Who It’s For: No matter your height or size, Spanx has an inseam length and cut for you. The luxe look is certainly more for the buttoned-up traveler—the one who gasps at the thought of boarding a plane in sweatpants.

Size: XS–3XL | Material: Rayon, nylon, elastane, polyester | Colors: 4 | Pockets: None

Liverpool The Gia Glider Ankle Skinny Jean

Why We Love It: The thought of wearing jeans on a long flight sent shivers down our spine for years. We’ve concluded that people sporting jeans at the airport must be wearing The Gia Glider Ankle Skinny from Liverpool Los Angeles. With a faux zipper and button, the pull-on bottoms look like a high-end pair of jeans but operate exactly like leggings. On the skin, they’re as comfortable as the leggings we wear to yoga, but on the exterior, they look just like everyday jeans. The pants are available in regular and tall lengths, with the tall version being perfect for our 5-foot-9 frame, hitting directly at our ankles. Truthfully, if these were available in a few more wash options and silhouettes, we’d probably replace our entire jean collection because the comfort level and price (less than $100) are hard to beat.

Who It’s For: These stretchy jeggings have become our staple travel pants for when we want to look put together without trying hard or forgoing comfort. We, therefore, recommend it for anyone who wants to keep a polished look while traveling and is looking to wear jeans at their destination as well.

Size: 0–16 | Material: Cotton, viscose, recycled polyester, elastane | Colors: 1 | Pockets:  4

Most Comfortable

Lululemon high-rise jogger.

Why We Love It: These joggers from Lululemon broke our comfort scale. Roomier than leggings yet softer than the average pair of sweatpants, we lived in these bottoms for the entirety of our two-week trial. We wore these so much that we had to clean them three times in two weeks, but they didn’t shrink, pill, or fade; they remained good as new, with a bonus that the drawstring never fell out during any of the washes. Wearing them on our six-hour flight from San Francisco to Hawaii, we felt that these pants stretched perfectly around our waist without any sliding or rubbing against our skin the entire time we were in the air. The pockets were also deep enough for our phone, and although there was no closure, it didn’t slip out.

Who It’s For: These are truly ideal for long flights and discomfort-averse people. As cozy as a blanket, it doesn’t get much snugglier than these joggers. After a good wash, in which they didn’t shrink, pill, or fade, we could wear them as pajamas during our trip as well.

Size: 0–20 | Material: Nylon, Lycra elastane | Colors: 1 | Pockets:  2

Best for Long Flights

Joah brown empire jogger.

Why We Love It: For long flights (think 10-plus hours), we couldn’t fathom wearing anything other than joggers. The air conditioning is always on full blast during these flights and we wanted to wear something thick enough to protect us from the cold (and avoid getting sick on our way to our destination). We adore this option over any other because it’s not as baggy as the standard sweatpants. The Los Angeles-based label created these joggers that are relatively fitted without being tight. There is still some ruching at the hem and an undeniable relaxed appeal but without any of the sagging and drowsy look synonymous with sweatpants. With some high socks and a cute sweater, we felt extraordinarily comfortable while looking athleisure-chic on the plane.

Who It’s For: Anyone who tends to get very cold on planes will enjoy the soft and fluffy feel of these joggers. We were kept aptly warm in the embrace of these pants while still looking considerably chic.

Size: XS–L | Material: Cotton | Colors: 1 | Pockets:  2

Best Joggers

Los angeles apparel high waist sweatpants.

Why We Love It: Los Angeles Apparel has been one of our favorite go-to spots for sweatpants. Offering that traditional laid-back silhouette, nothing beats the extreme levels of comfort that come with the fleece-lined baggy pants. The best part? No matter how many times we’ve thrown this in the washer and dryer, it never shrunk, pilled, or lost its softness. Wearing these pants is like wearing a soft blanky, allowing us to drift into a blissful dream 35,000 feet above ground. The only note is that we had to style it right with a more fitted top so to balance out the bagginess, otherwise we looked too homey for a public space.

Who It’s For: Comfort-obsessed travelers won’t find anything better than these sweatpants. They not only made excellent travel joggers, but ideal pajamas as well, since they don’t lose any of that softness after a wash. For this reason, you can still save some luggage space by not packing additional sleeping pants.

Size: XS–L | Material: Cotton, polyester | Colors: 2 | Pockets:  2

Gold Hinge Parachute Pants

Why We Love It: The obvious reason why we love cargo pants for travel is the excess pockets. There are eight total pockets throughout these lightweight nylon pants, and because of the stretchy waist, they don’t slide down from any of the additional weight. The drawstrings on the hem of the pants were also a nice-to-have feature as they allowed us to change up the style ever so slightly. The only con was that the strings would sometimes drag on the floor or cause us to step on them. While the pants alone were plenty comfortable, it was also easy to hide some soft leggings under and wear two pants at a time, thus saving extra luggage space.

Who It’s For: The cargo style may not be for everyone, but those who enjoy the laid-back appeal will adore this option from Gold Hinge. It has the perfect amount of looseness to it that, for lack of a better word, simply looks cool. Anyone who finds themselves stuffing their carry-on bags to the brim and still needs additional storage space will also find plenty of usage out of the plethora of pockets.

Size: XS–XXL | Material: Nylon | Colors: 9 | Pockets:  8

Quince Ponte Straight Leg Pant

Why We Love It: Summer travels and linen go hand in hand: The lightweight, sweat-wicking material is ideal for hot climates and can easily be dressed up or down. When it comes to pants, this pair from Quince stood out because of its 100 percent linen makeup, vast color options, convenient slip-on style, and summer-friendly cropped silhouette. This meant they didn’t drag through dirty airport terminals, and we considered the length ideal for in-between weather days as well as spring and summer travel. As expected with linen, the bottoms did wrinkle slightly. But rather than looking disheveled, they had a lived-in appeal. And we actually found these to be so comfortable, we completely forgot we were wearing pants—a dream come true.

Who It’s For: Calling all summer travelers, these pants are for you. Beyond just the breathable linen, the cropped and wide-leg cut makes way for air to seep through. There are several stylish colorways to choose from, and each provides a different aesthetic based on your destination (white ones for Greece, stripes ones for the south of France, for example).

Size: XS–XL | Material: Linen | Colors: 8 | Pockets:  3

• Style: Regardless of how you’re traveling, sitting for hours on end is pretty uncomfortable. That’s why New York-based image and wardrobe consultant Beverly Osemwenkhae recommends opting for travel pants made with an elastic waistband or drawstrings because they “give a little more freedom to play around with.” She thinks drawstrings specifically allow you to alter where the waistband sits on your midsection, which can relieve pressure and help you feel more relaxed in transit. 
• Material : While many stretchy materials conform to and move with your body, there are some—like cotton and linen—that can lose their shape over time and wrinkle easily in transit. For a more flexible yet sturdy option that’s just as weightless as linen can be, New York-based personal fashion stylist Nejla Renee recommends looking for styles made from spandex, elastane, or nylon because they generally hold their shape through countless washes and wears. Along with their resiliency, these fabrics (as well as most poly blends) are wrinkle-resistant, making them ideal for business trips because they will still look crisp after hours of sitting. 
• Pockets: For easy access to your boarding pass, passport, or phone while traveling through the airport, pockets help keep everything handy. Not only do they allow you to skip digging through tons of other travel essentials to find what you need, but they also give you peace of mind knowing your most important items are certainly on you. We recommend choosing pants with at least one deep pocket that can hold your phone without it sliding out. Zippered and buttoned iterations, too, can be a bit more secure. 
• Versatility: Sure, comfort tops our list of necessary qualities our travel pants should have. But we also aimed to find pants that are functional and versatile enough to wear on vacation. “I like to be able to wear a pair of pants at least two to three times while traveling to optimize packing space,” says Renee. Think about your destination and what types of activities you’ll be doing to decide what bottoms you’ll wear the most. “Certain pants like jeans are trans-seasonal, [while] trousers can be taken from day to night, spring to summer, and the boardroom to the club if styled accordingly,” says travel expert Thithi Nteta .

Should you wear compression pants while flying?

According to Dr. Emily Splichal , an Arizona-based board-certified podiatrist, prolonged sitting on long flights puts pressure on veins in your legs, reducing circulation and ultimately leading to swelling. Paired with higher sodium intake while traveling, your body is more likely to retain water and bloat while in the air. Compressive garments counter the effects because they “are designed to address venous return and prevent swelling,” she explains. To ward off bloating, Dr. Splichal recommends wearing compression pants or socks on flights over six hours. “They can be worn on shorter flights if you have a medical condition that contributes to swelling and leg edema,” she adds.

How do you style pants for travel?

We get it, putting together a stylized outfit for early (or late) departures may not be your top priority, but some simple pairings can transform an outfit into a cute and comfy ensemble. Renee says that layering is key, even if you’re going to a warm destination because plane temperatures tend to be chilly. She advises styling a high-rise elastic waist pant with a simple cropped tee shirt, casual leather sneakers , and a packable puffer (for the winter). “The puffer can be used for warmth or as a pillow in a pinch,” she says.

If you don’t want to take a heavy coat, opt for something lighter like a leather jacket or jean jacket . Both options will keep you warm in transit and look more refined than a sweatshirt. But for a dressier option, Osemwenkhae suggests throwing on a blazer , especially if you’re headed to a work function directly after the trip. Regardless of which overcoat you select, the jacket and sneakers combo will mesh well with any travel pant style.

As for accessories, Nteta suggests investing in a nice crossbody or belt bag if your favorite travel pants don’t have large enough pockets to store your passport or other items, so you can still keep your essentials at arms’ reach.

Is it better to wear tight or loose pants on a plane?

This comes down to personal preference. All of our experts agree that you should wear what feels the most comfortable. “It’s important to have freedom of movement, especially for long-haul flights,” says Nteta. Looser styles give you a lot of freedom and feel incredibly cozy, almost like a blanket. If you prefer tighter silhouettes, make sure the pants aren’t very restrictive and have some stretch so they can move with your body.

Mary Honkus is a former commerce editor at InStyle with over five years of experience covering fashion and beauty. Bianca Kratky is a commerce writer at InStyle who flies at least six times a year. Together, they dove through the insights brought forth by our testers and compiled the findings into this article.

Along with those insights, they consulted with California-based professional stylist Kat Eves, New York-based image and wardrobe consultant Beverly Osemwenkhae, New York-based personal stylist Nejla Renee, and travel expert Thithi Nteta to learn more about elements that are essential in a good pair of travel pants. Arizona-based board-certified podiatrist Dr. Emily Splichal was also tapped to learn about the benefits of flying with compression garments.

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The 11 Best Travel Pants for Men of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The best men's pants to keep you comfortable and stylish on all your travels.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Complete the Look

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Dylan Thompson

When on the go, there’s nothing quite like a good pair of travel pants to turn chaos into comfort. Whether you’re constantly hitting the road, traveling from city to city, or just dealing with the daily commute, a pair of travel pants can be a game changer.

We tested 38 pairs of men’s travel pants for fit comfort, quality, durability, design, and value, and found the 11 you should consider when looking for that perfect fit. We wore each pair of pants during daily commutes and while traveling, taking them everywhere from the plane, train, and bus to the office, dinner, and beyond. They spun through washers, flipped through dryers, and stood in line at the grocery store. We selected options for every occasion and budget. In the end, our top picks are comfortable, durable, and work in just about any environment. They also fit a wide variety of body types.

Best Overall

Lululemon abc classic-fit pant warpstreme.

These are extremely comfortable and breathable, and are versatile enough to wear on a variety of occasions.

These are classic fit pants, so if you’re looking for something with a slimmer profile, you may prefer something else. 

The Lululemon ABC Classic-fit Pant Warpstreme checks all the boxes for the optimal men’s travel pants. Whether you’re looking for comfort, quality, durability, design, or value, these pants fit the bill. Their comfortable build means you can stretch your legs when sprinting to catch the bus, and they’ll get you through long, 16-hour travel days with ease. After weekly wear for commuting over a five-month period, they still look good as new with no signs of shrinkage or fading.

The pants come in a classic style with five pockets deep enough to fit the biggest phones and thickest wallets. You can wear them in almost any setting, including pair with a workout shirt for exercise, work, travel, nights at home, brunch, and dinner dates. On top of that, they don’t stretch or shrink after multiple runs through the wash, and the material doesn’t pill.

All in all, the Lululemon ABC Classic-fit Pant Warpstremes are the travel pants to beat. While the price is a bit higher than others on the list, we wouldn’t be surprised if you headed back to the store and picked up a few more pairs in different colors. Luckily, there are 16 options to choose from.

The Details: Sizes 28-46 | 53 percent elastomultiester, 47 percent recycled polyester

Travel + Leisure / Jack Bibi

Best Everyday

Everlane the performance traveler chino.

These pants are stylish and offer a bit of stretch for a more comfortable fit. 

The jogger bottom may wrinkle and start to look a little less neat after a few wears.

The Everlane The Performance Traveler Chinos might seem a bit tight at first, but after giving them a couple wears and washes throughout five months of tests, we found them to have a perfect fit. They’re known for being supercomfortable, even while walking through terminals or spending hours waiting for a flight.

Everlane uses high-quality material for its pants, so the stretch waistband and jogger cut around the ankles won’t fall apart after a couple washes. We don’t recommend throwing them in the dryer, but if they somehow end up there, just give the pants a wear, and they should stretch out after a couple minutes.

When it comes to design, the jogger cut gives them a different feel than some of the other pants on this list. The pockets are also deep, while the side zipper pocket allows for additional security. Even with the zip pockets, these are pants you could wear at the office or out with a white T-shirt.

The Details: 28- to 40-inch waist, 30- or 32-inch length | 94 percent cotton, 6 percent elastane

Travel + Leisure / Joe Raccuglia

Best for Work

Mack weldon radius flex jogger.

Mack Weldon

They're sophisticated and can work for formal occasions.

These pants are not adjustable, and the button in front has a slide-to-lock system.

The Mack Weldon Radius Pant manages to be comfortable and breathable, while also bringing a touch of sophistication to your wardrobe. The material is not as thin as other travel pants, which helps the fit stay true through multiple wears. While we didn't find them to be as comfortable as some of the other pairs on this list, we didn't struggle when wearing them throughout an entire day.

The pants come in a classic four-pocket style — two in front, two in back. We noted the high-quality feel of the pants and think they’d be a good fit for formal events. They look like a nicer pair of chinos that you can easily dress up, and they come with tiny extra compartments for smaller items like coins or AirPods . Additionally, the fabric wicks moisture and is lightweight without being too thin. Better yet, the fabric is not impacted by washing or drying, and there’s no pilling, either.

The Details: S to XXL | 91 percent polyester, 9 percent spandex

Travel + Leisure / Chris Abell

Best Joggers

Vuori sunday performance jogger.

The fit of these joggers is perfect, and they’re comfortable enough to wear all day long.

They're too casual for formal occasions.

The Vuori Sunday Performance Joggers have an adjustable waist made of stretchy elastic, a snug overall fit, and breathable fabric — basically, they’re the kind of pants you’ll never want to take off. Luckily, they’re stylish and comfortable enough to be versatile for most occasions. 

The drawstring adds adjustability, while the tapered legs with fitted cuffs give wearers a slimming look. We loved that the pants felt lightweight without being too thin, and they retained their shape and feel even after many wears and washes. There are two front pockets and two zippered back pockets, along with an additional zippered pocket on the upper thigh. You can wear the pants while hiking , traveling, or running errands, though we might not take them to the office or out to dinner. After five months of use, they still look good as new, and the versatility and comfort of these joggers will have you coming back for a second purchase.

The Details: XS-XXL | 88 percent polyester, 12 percent elastane

Travel + Leisure / Dylan Thompson

Best for Hiking

Eddie bauer men's guide pro pants.

Eddie Bauer

These comfortable pants are lightweight and breathable for travel or hiking.

If you’re headed somewhere cold and expect to spend a considerable amount of time outside, it’s worth considering additional layers.

If you plan on hiking or spending time outdoors, the Eddie Bauer Guide Pro pants are a great option. We found that they’ll keep you warm while hiking in cold or warmer temperatures (though anything cooler than 30 degrees would require another layer), but are just as fitting at home. They’re comfortable for both walking and sitting, thanks to two-way stretch fabric, while the athletic fit means they hug closer to the body without restricting mobility. We wore them on hikes and walks and never felt hot, even when our upper layer of clothing got sweaty, the pants remained breathable.

As anyone who spends long stretches on the road knows, it’s important not to overpack and to get extra wear out of your travel wardrobe when necessary. The pants are made of lightweight spandex, so they're easy to fold up and don’t take up too much space in your bag. The odor-control waistband, meanwhile, makes it so they stay fresher longer. 

The Details: 30- to 44-inch waist, 30- to 36-inch inseam | Nylon, spandex | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Kevin Schmitz

Most Comfortable

Lululemon city sweat jogger.

These are the softest pants we have ever worn. 

They are one of the pricier options on this list.

Lululemon managed to make it on our list of the best men’s travel pants twice, and if you get the opportunity to try these on, you’ll know exactly why. Frankly, these are some of the most comfortable pants we’ve ever worn. They have a drawstring for a perfect fit, the tapered leg is slimming, and they find the perfect balance between a relaxed and put-together look. After five months of use on planes, trains, and during daily commutes, we found these to be incredibly comfortable.

These are high-quality pants as well (typical for Lululemon as a brand), and they have an almost satin-like texture. Even after several washes, the pants retained their form and fit perfectly. They have four pockets, including two zippered back pockets. 

The Details: XS-XXL | 52 percent polyester, 42 percent cotton, 6 percent Lycra elastane

Travel + Leisure / Joseph Manalang

Most Stylish

Vuori cascade tech chino pant.

Vuori Clothing

Pure comfort meets style with these travel pants, which can easily replace your favorite pair of cotton chinos.

While these are certainly fit for a day at the driving range, you might need an extra layer for a brisk hike.

Everything about the Vuori Cascade Tech Chino Pant feels high quality. From the buttons to the zippers to the pockets, we gave these pants high marks across the board. Unlike the usual chino, these are made of 100 percent polyester, but they didn’t lose their shape like some other pairs we’ve tried and come in a stylish slim fit. We wore them to work and dressed them up with a nice shirt, but also wore them with a T-shirt for a more casual feel.

While these travel pants certainly look and feel the part, it’s how comfortable they are that sets them apart from the pack. Thanks to their performance stretch twill and high-quality elastic waistband, they look like classic chinos but feel like sweatpants or joggers. They have a water-resistant finish, and they’re breathable, so you won’t get too hot, but they’ll also keep you cozy on a brisk day — we do, however, recommend layering up for colder temperatures.

The Details: 28- to 38-inch waist | 100 percent polyester | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Frank Corona

Best Sweatpants

Patagonia men's daily sweatpants.

Comfortable and breathable, these sweatpants are well-made classics that are built to last.

The tie strings are great for adjustments, but the waist might sag a bit if you’re planning to carry everything in the pockets.

Patagonia is known for its high-quality, dependable garments and that’s exactly what the Daily Sweatpants are. Made from organic-certified French terry, they feature everything you’d expect from a classic pair of travel pants: they’re breathable, allow for mobility, and are extremely comfortable. We could wear them for hours on end, and they’re not restrictive, perfect for a long-haul flight . 

During testing, we also found that they got better after washing, somehow getting even softer without pilling. And they don’t look cheap, which means you can wear them at home, while wandering around a new city, and even to work — if it’s a more casual environment, of course. One thing to note is while we liked the drawstring for adjusting how snug a fit we wanted at the waist, we did find that the pants sagged a bit with our phone, wallet, and keys inside the pockets. 

The Details: XS-3XL | 98 percent regenerative organic cotton, 2 percent spandex

Travel + Leisure / Henry Wortock

Most Durable

Kuhl radikl pant.

Versatility meets durability with these travel pants, which are as good for a hike as they are for business casual at the office.

These pants have a fixed waist, so if you’re looking for the added stretch of spandex, it might be worth trying another pair.

We wore these pants to do basically everything — from wearing them at the office to mowing the lawn to hitting the trail. What sets the Kühl Radikl pant apart is its quick-drying, abrasion-resistant material, which means they’ll last you through thick and thin and should hold their shape, even after several cycles through the wash. We actually wore these pants to the office three days in a row, and they fit and looked virtually the same every time. (The waist got a little wrinkled from sitting at a desk for a while, but a quick tumble in the dryer had these pants looking right as rain.)

The nonadjustable waist gives the pants more of a dress-slack appearance, but they still provide full freedom of movement thanks to stretchy material running along the inseam, thighs, and waist — like you could even do yoga in these pants. We even put these pants through some extreme stretch tests and they survived beautifully. Unlike many travel pants, they aren’t formfitting, offering plenty of room in the trunk and thighs, but they taper a bit after the calves. The material is lightweight, breathable, and flexible without overstretching.

The Details: 28- to 42-inch waist, 28- to 36-inch inseam | 68 percent cotton, 29 percent nylon, 3 percent spandex | Quick-drying

Travel + Leisure / Steven Schrimpf

Best for Tall Guys

L.l.bean men's venture stretch five-pocket pants.

The pants are long enough to suit taller heights and provide total range of motion without looking frumpy or baggy. 

These offer a more casual look, so they may not work for formal occasions.

When you’re tall, it can be a challenge to find a comfortable pair of pants. L.L.Bean, however, seems to have solved the problem with the Men's Venture Stretch Five-pocket Pants. These pants are breathable and light and aren’t super stretchy. They have a trim fit and look more like slightly relaxed slacks than joggers.

Offering a wide range of motion, these pants seemed more athletic compared to dress pants, but we noted that they aren't casual-looking like men's sweatpants or shorts. The pants are a step above casual, making them versatile enough to work in a variety of settings. The material is comfortable, and pockets are deep enough to fit your phone, wallet, and keys, and still looks new after five months of wearing.

While we wouldn’t consider the pants to be luxury, they certainly are not “fast fashion,” either, so you can feel good about buying them in multiple colors.

The Details: 30- to 44-inch waist, 29- to 34-inch inseam | 96 percent nylon, 4 percent spandex

Travel + Leisure / Thomas Knief

Most Versatile

Du/er no sweat pant relaxed taper.

If you’re looking for something more versatile to replace your jeans, then these are the pants you’ve been waiting for.

If you are in between sizes, consider sizing up.

The Du/er No Sweat pants look and fit similar to a jean, but that’s about where the comparison stops. You can wear these almost anywhere, from the airport to the climbing gym. During testing, we found they provided enough warmth on cool days, but think they’re lightweight and breathable enough to wear during warmer weather, too. They’re everything you’d expect from a well-made pair of jeans, except way more comfortable.

The stitching is high-quality, while the double-stitched pockets and waistband are a nice touch. The waistband features a zipper and a button closure, so there is no mistaking them for frumpy sweatpants. And thanks to the fabric’s cotton, lyocell, polyester, and spandex blend, the plants offer plenty of stretch while still keeping their shape. It’s important to note that if you typically run between sizes, you may want to size up for a slightly roomier fit. Regardless, these versatile pants can be dressed up or down and comfortably worn all day.

The Details: 28- to 40-inch waist, 30- to 34-inch length | 62 percent cotton, 34 percent lyocell, 3 percent polyester, 1 percent spandex

Travel + Leisure / Trevor Kauf

Other Men's Travel Pants We Liked

Several other pairs of men’s travel pants we tested didn’t quite make our list of the very best, but still deserve an honorable mention.

Outdoor Voices Men's Rectrek Pants : Extremely comfortable and made of high-quality material, these pants are great for sitting for extended periods of time. However, the rear and legs are tighter than suggested on the website.

Lolë Wander Pants: These pants are lightweight and comfortable, making them a great pair for travel and casual errands. They’re well made and will maintain their shape through multiple wears. However, they got a bit sticky during sweaty workouts, so they’re not made for true athletic endeavors.

Bluffworks Envoy Lightweight Travel Pants : The pants are durable, comfortable, and breathable, and will hold up through multi-day trips. Plus, the stretch factor allows for a full range of motion. Despite this stretchiness, they felt a bit rigid compared to other pants on this list and were a bit snug in the thigh.

Eddie Bauer Men's CirrusLite Down Jacket: This jacket is a great layer to keep you warm on a chilly evening and lightweight enough to not overheat you when temperatures rise. It also came out on top in our best men's packable jackets tests.

AO Long Sleeve Curve-Hem Tee: If you're looking for the best travel clothes for men, you can't go wrong with this classic and stylish long-sleeve tee. Just be sure to size up for the perfect fit.

On Cloud 5 : We love the On Cloud 5 sneakers for overall comfort and support — in fact, they graced our list as one of the best men’s travel shoe . Thanks to their zero-gravity foam midsole and rubber sole, these shoes were definitely made for walking. They slide on and off with ease and are made with lightweight materials, making them great for the airport and easy to pack in a suitcase .

Our Testing Process

Over a period of two weeks, we tested 38 pairs of pants for fit, comfort, quality, durability, design, and value. We chose a variety of pants that would work well in different travel scenarios, from hiking pants to dressier options. We examined the travel pants’ material and overall construction, taking note of how the fabric feels to the touch, whether it’s stretchy or not, and the quality and durability of the seams. To test comfort and flexibility, we did squats in the pants. 

During the testing period, we wore the pants for at least six hours per day and during everyday activities, including working at the office, going out to dinner, running errands, and exercising. After the first week of wear, we washed the pants according to the manufacturer’s instructions and checked how the pants changed afterward. We continued to test the pants for six months to submit long-term feedback and to make sure they stayed durable and comfortable after a longer period of time. We will update this article accordingly as we test more pants worthy of recommendations.

Tips for Buying Men's Travel Pants

Find the right balance between comfort and style.

Choosing a stylish pair of men’s travel pants doesn’t mean you should sacrifice comfort. The last thing you want to do is be fidgeting around in an uncomfortable pair of pants on an eight-hour flight, but there are still plenty of good-looking options out there so that you don't look like you're wearing pajama pants to the airport. Luckily, there are plenty of top brands making high-quality, stylish pants that are still stretchy and comfortable. If you plan on wearing your pants in different travel scenarios, make sure they look and feel good.

Consider versatility

Some travel pants, such as men's sweatpants or joggers, are great for getting around town, running errands, and even for the gym or a run. However, that same pair might not be appropriate for the office or dinner in town. Before choosing a pair of travel pants that’s right for you, consider the various occasions where you’ll want to wear them, and make sure the ones you choose line up with those goals. If you have a versatile pair of pants, you'll get away with wearing them multiple times, allowing you to pack less.

Pay attention to the materials

When it comes to clothing, materials play a huge role in comfort and function. Whether it’s due to personal taste when it comes to fabric or how you expect the clothing to hold up over time, the materials used to create the garment impact both how often you’ll be willing to wear it and how long it’ll last. If you plan on hiking or working out in your pants, you may want to look for something water-resistant or stretchy, like nylon and spandex, while you may prefer something cozier for long flights or car rides, like cotton.

Frequently Asked Questions

If your travel pants are stretchy, you should roll them rather than fold them so they won't wrinkle, and you’ll save space. First, lay your pants on a flat surface, such as a bed or kitchen table. Next, fold them in half from the waist. Then, take one pant leg and fold it in a 90 degree angle outwards at the knee. Grab your pants at the waistline and roll downward by the waistband. Once done rolling, pull the left out pant leg over the top of the roll so that the rest of the pants are encapsulated inside. Make sure to button any buttons before rolling up your pants, too.

We always suggest following the care instructions on the tag when washing any pair of pants (or any other garment, really), to avoid damage or shrinkage. When in doubt, either hand wash or run it in the machine on a cold, gentle cycle and hang to dry, which should be safe for most clothing. A travel steamer can be handy for freshening up on the go.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Christopher Friedmann is a travel, wine, and spirits writer with over a decade of experience editing and writing for magazines, online publications, and massive corporations. He is no stranger to visiting several cities in short periods of time and walking double-digit miles per day through them. He prefers to travel with just a backpack, so versatile travel pants are a must. 

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Plus Size Travel Clothes for Women: 11 Vacation Wardrobe Essentials

Capsule Travel Wardrobe , FASHION , Travel Clothes Extended Sizing , Travel Clothing

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Frustrated with the selection of plus size travel clothes for women? Let us simplify the options. Start by building your vacation wardrobe with these core pieces and add other items as needed. Keep reading to learn more!

For a complete list of size-friendly brands, take a look at the Plus Size Clothing section here !

Plus Size Travel Clothes for Women

Written by: Phebe Schwartz

Table Of Contents

Travel Fashion Girl help! A reader asks:

I’ve adapted the style basics for those of us travelers who want to be stylish, classic, and elegant anywhere in the world.  These are the items that are always in my travel (and at-home) capsule wardrobe .  Yes, I carry more than these ten items, but since these are the core of my wardrobe, I could probably travel with just these pieces and be happy in most destinations.

These are my essential plus size travel clothes for women (all items shown in this post are available in extended sizing):

Tip: Want to pack light, use packing cubes to compress your clothing as shown in this video!

Vince Camuto Rumple Fabric Blouse

The White Shirt

A long-sleeved white shirt is indispensable for travel.  This can be worn alone, over a tank or tee, under a sweater or blazer, with jeans or any slacks or trousers or a skirt.

It can also be worn as an additional layer under or over the right dress. A white shirt or blouse can easily be dressed up or down.

A tunic length shirt can also be worn over leggings or a short skirt.  (Always carry a small stain stick or even a bleach stick to deal with those pesky spots.)  Of course, a color is great too – but white always looks elegant.

Looking for the best white t-shirt for travel ? Here’s what our readers recommends!

Calvin Klein Slim Fit Madison Dress Pants

Black slacks

Black is my neutral color of choice, and it works well for most women.  If you absolutely hate black, go with another dark neutral.

Long or cropped, a basic tailored trouser that goes with everything is an essential travel item.  Find a great pair that suits the climate zone(s) you’ll be traveling in, and that works with your body shape.

Looking for other options? Here’s what our readers voted as the best black travel pants and these were their favorite styles!

Levi’s Women’s 711 Skinny Jeans

Casual Pants

I learned the hard way that I need more than one pair of travel pants.  (I fell in a river.  Really.)

I like a casual cotton cargo, again in a neutral color that works with my tops.  The alternative would be dark-wash slim-leg jeans for my second pair of pants, but those tend to be my winter wardrobe.

Shorts or capris would be another option, especially when traveling to warm weather.

Jessica London Plus Size Everyday Knit Maxi Skirt

My new favorite skirt is a straight viscose jersey skirt, in black, with a shirt-tail hemline; it comes to just below my knees, though most of the time I roll the waistband to bring the hem up to just above my knees.

A basic A-line, straight, or pencil skirt in your neutral color will work with almost every top, and will work for everywhere but the beach.  Knits travel best and are more comfortable to wear. Add leggings or tights for cold climates.

Take a look at these skirt outfits to learn how to wear them in cold weather!

Leith Ruched Sheath Dress

I’m a fan of the little black dress , though any basic dress works.  Look for a dress that can be worn casually or dressed up with accessories; works with a cardi/blazer/pullover; or could even go over a shirt.

The  Leith  Body-Con Tank dress shown above is versatile and comfy for travel (just ask our readers!). Check out our  video review  on this awesome dress!

Watch my  video  review on the  Leith dress for women!

Aim for a neutral color, and about knee length.  Maxi dresses are also wonderful, but if you’re like me and not very tall, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by too much fabric, so I keep it at knee length.

Travel Fashion Tip : High-low styles are a good alternative for women under 5’3”

We’ve compiled a few of our favorite black travel dresses along with our reader favorites!

Nic+Zoe 4-Way Three Quarter Sleeve Convertible Cardigan

A cardigan will keep you warm, polish up an outfit, and cover your shoulders when visiting religious sites or more modest countries.

My cardi is almost always black, usually cropped, works with everything, and fits under a jacket for cold weather.  Since I wear so much black sometimes I go with a bright solid cardigan for contrast.

Don’t pack more than one cardi – stick to a neutral that works with all items.

Take a look at these cardigan outfit ideas for your next trip!

Amazon Brand Daily Ritual Plus Size Jersey Short-Sleeve T Shirt

The right tee will work with your slacks, your skirt, even under or over your dress.

Tees are great, but if you have a muffin top, look for a long or oversized or A-line tee.  In an ideal world, we wouldn’t have muffin tops.  However, an important part of traveling includes sampling local cuisine. Well worth it.

Leave the logo tees at home and discover our readers’ classic picks for the best t-shirts for travel !

Curves 360 by NYDJ Perfect Blouse

Colorful top

I like red as my pop of color, but any color or print that is great on you and makes you feel happy belongs in your travel bag.

This could be a blouse , another tee, another sweater – just your favorite color and style.

Gibson Ruffle Trim Front Button Sleeveless Top

Sleeveless top

A sleeveless top worn with your skirt instantly becomes a dress for any fancy occasion.

This lightweight, frill-trimmed top will move easily from work to weekend. Pair it with jeans, your slacks, even shorts.

Levi’s Original Trucker Jacket

The perfect blazer can dress up a pair of jeans or cargo slacks and make you instantly chic.  With the black slacks or skirt, it will mimic a suit.

And with the dress, you are suddenly more put together.  A more casual option would be a jean jacket, leather jacket, or cotton jacket in a moto or military style.

I will admit that I’ve yet to find my perfect blazer, but many working women already have this item in their closet.

Use this as your jacket on the plane, and keep in your bag while traveling.  I’ve often wished I had one with me.

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bag

Accessories

Fabulous but comfortable shoes , a handbag or crossbody bag that can be carried securely, a scarf or two in your best colors, maybe some earrings, a hat, all that.

I tend to forget these items when I make my packing list, but the scarves and jewelry can be bought wherever you travel; these are often my favorite “me” souvenirs.

We’ve rounded up the best anti theft travel bags for women!

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

How to Organize Plus Size Clothing

Packing cubes  can help organize all the layers you have in mind for winter travels. We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. The  video  below shows you how!

Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the   video  above!

We also put together a  five-part YouTube series  showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use  this  specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!

What are your tips on finding the best plus size travel clothes for women? Comment below!

For more plus size travel clothes tips, please read:

• Travel Fashion for Women Over 50: This Brand Also Has A Fantastic Size Range
• Plus Size Packing Tips: How to Rock a Carryon Wardrobe
• Need Plus Size Clothing Options? This Brand is Awesome
• 6 Places to Get Deals on Cheap Plus Size Clothing for Travel

LIKE THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

Hope you liked this post on plus size travel clothes. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio: Phebe Schwartz started traveling at age 19, and hasn’t stopped. Retired, she and her husband are traveling the world and having the time of their lives! The plan is to have no plan, the philosophy is that where they end up is where they are meant to be. Follow their adventures: Rolling Luggagers

24 Comments

How do you keep your long, white shirt crisp when travelling?

Here are a few ideas: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-pack-clothes-without-wrinkles/

Going on a Mediterranean cruise. In August for my 60th birthday. Have several maxi dresses. A couple shorts. Have tried to pack carry on. But it never works.

Hi Christy, thank you for reaching out. You don’t need to travel carryon unless it’s something that makes sense for you. Many of our readers use regular size luggage and use the packing ideas to pack efficiently ? We wrote a post about this to change the carryon misconception: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/traveling-carry-on-only/

If you need any more tips to help you with your packing check out this article: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-a-mediterranean-cruise/ Also have a look at TFG’s signature packing lists for ideas for a capsule wardrobe and how many clothing items you could pack: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/functional-and-fashion-packing-list/ The product images shown on the blog are simply to provide you with an understanding of the general principles you can use, then because every woman has unique needs and style preferences, you can then apply the principles we have shared and adapt the items to suit your own needs.

Hope this helps you with your packing. Happy 60th birthday, have the most incredible time!! ❤️?

This is very helpful!!! Thanks!!!

🙂 You’re welcome!

Great ideas – will def use for my next trip!

Glad you found it helpful Kathi

Thank you for including all sizes. Love your blog!

You’re welcome Sara 🙂 Glad you like it!

These are such great options! I definitely bookmarked this one.

Glad to hear it 🙂

I find a white linen shirt that can be worn unbuttoned a great cover up to hide my bulges- yet still be cool.

linen is fantastic!

This is wonderful information for a trip

Thanks Brenda!

Thanks for including an article on good travel clothes for plus size. There aren’t many!

Thank you Beth! We’ll continue to provide as many more tips as possible 🙂

Finding “normal”, good quality basics in plus size is a challenge. Thank you for whatever tips you may have. I find that larger sizes need be better quality, nothing is worse than large size “skimpy”.

I agree Gina 🙂 I hope you find the tips useful!

What works best for a 65 year old that has an Apple shape? I have small arms and legs. I cannot find anything that looks good.

Hi Sheila, thank you for reaching out! I would highly suggest that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there about recommendations for travel clothes: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Here you have the opportunity to ask for specific recommendations based on your requirements. With over 10,000 members, there are women of all ages, shapes, and sizes. Hope you find clothing you like. Happy travels! ?

Thank you! I requested this type of info via Facebook, and love the suggestions!!

Happy to help

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Highly-rated men's travel pants for commuters, vacationers and beyond

Shop comfortable men's travel pants from brands like Vuori and lululemon.

From work trips to road trips and destination vacations , finding both highly-functioning and stylish pants can make your travel wardrobe more efficient.

When shopping for men's travel pants, we're searching for top-rated options that boast comfortability and performance.

Our picks include casual work styles, outdoor pants, and athleisure for all travel occasions. We've highlighted options from brands like Vuori, lululemon, L.L.Bean, and Patagonia, among others.

MORE: Khloé Kardashian and Fabletics launch collection of compression swimwear and athleisure

What fabrics to consider in travel pants.

When preparing for travel, consider fabrics that can withstand various weather conditions and have features to support your daily activities. Look for pants that are water-resistant or water-repellent and are quick-drying and breathable. Avoid pants that require dry cleaning and opt for machine-washable styles so you can maintain their cleanliness while away from home.

Search for pants with stretch to stay comfortable and unrestricted while walking or sitting for long periods, like while on a plane. Wrinkle-resistant fabrics can also help with the pant's overall appearance.

What features to consider in travel pants

Waistbands and front closures are important for both practicality and comfort. Elastic waistbands may be preferred for long trips whereas a zipper or button fly may be better suited for a more formal occasion, like a work meeting.

If you plan to carry valuables, opt for a pair of pants with hidden or zippered pockets. Zippered pockets are also beneficial to avoid losing items during increased activity, like hiking.

Styling travel pants

Choose pants that will work well styled with your current wardrobe to avoid overbuying and over-packing. Opt for a color that matches multiple tops and shoes to style day to night.

By clicking on these shopping links, visitors will leave ABC.com. These e-commerce sites are operated under different terms and privacy policies than ABC.com. ABC will receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Prices may change from the date of publication.

Casual travel pants

ABC Classic-Fit 5 Pocket Pant 30"L Warpstreme

These 4.4-star lululemon pants have many of the key elements we'd like in a travel pant: They are wrinkle-resistant, made with mid-weight fabric for year-round wear and are machine washable. They are designed with four-way stretch and even have a hidden zip pocket for valuables. These pants currently come in 11 colors and five lengths. Wear them from the plane to a work lunch or dinner at your destination. 

rhone Commuter Straight Fit Pants

Rhone's Commuter Straight Fit Pants boast comfortable four-way-stretch with secure hidden pockets. They have a zip fly with snap closer and are available to shop in five colors on Nordstrom.

Peter Millar Regular Fit Performance Pants

These Peter Millar pants have a 4.7-star rating and over 900 reviews. They are made with a moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabric so you can comfortably wear them this season. 

Daymaker Pants

The Public Rec Daymaker Pants have a 4.5-star rating and more than 14,000 reviews. Reviewers note that they are multi-functional, comfortable, soft and stylish among other positive qualities. Public Rec notes that the pants have a "generous fit" for the glutes and thighs "while tapering slightly at the ankle for a smart finish. These are machine washable and feature an elastic waistband, two front zipper pockets and two back pockets. 

Men's VentureStretch Five-Pocket Pants, Standard Fit, Straight Leg

"We designed our most versatile performance pants to wear seven days a week and from desk to day hike, with unbeatable comfort and durability," L.L.Bean's website reads. These fit straight through the hip and thigh as well as the leg. They ar made with a water-repellent, abrasion-resistant stretch fabric with UPF 50+. They are machine washable and available in multiple colors and lengths. 

Cascade Tech Chino Pant

Reviewers have given Vuori's Cascade Tech Chino Pants a 4.6-star rating. This "modern, athletic fit pant" can be worn for golf, travel and beyond. They are made from performance stretch twill fabric and are water-resistant. Vuori boasts that the pants are lightweight, breathable, and fashionable, too -- so you won't miss a beat on your trip.

Amazon Essentials Men's Classic-Fit Wrinkle-Resistant Flat-Front Chino Pant (Available in Big & Tall)

These Amazon Essentials pants are Amazon's No. 1 bestselling style in their Men's Casual Pants category. They have a 4.2-star rating and more than 50,000 reviews. They feature a classic fit with a straight leg and are made from wrinkle-resistant cotton-blend chino fabric. They have front slant pockets and button-through back pockets and are machine washable. 

Jogger travel pants

Hanes mens Ecosmart Jogger Sweatpants, Men's Midweight Fleece Lounge Pants, 30.5

These Hanes Ecosmart Joggers are undr $20 and have a 4.4-star rating with more than 37,000 reviews. They are available in four colors on Amazon. These "year-round fleece sweats" feature a relaxed silhouette, side seam pockets and a drawcord waist.

• $14.37 to $16

Under Armour UA Sportstyle Jogger Pants - Men's

These 4.7-star Under Armour joggers have over 700 reviews. They are made from a durable knit fabric that "wicks sweat and dries fast." There are hand pockets and a back left pocket. 

Fleece Lounge Men's Tapered Jogger

A comfortable jogger is key to long travel days. This tapered style from SKIMS' recently launched men's collection has a 4.6-star rating. They are made from 54% cotton, 14% recycled cotton and 32% recycled polyester. They feature an elastic waistband with a drawcord and side pockets. The joggers are available in XS to 5X. 

Patagonia Terrebonne Jogger Pants - Men's

Go from the car to a hike in these Patagonia Terrebonne Joggers. They "feature a recycled polyester ripstop that breathes well and dries in a flash," according to REI's website, and have a durable water-repellent. They are lightweight and compressible for easy packing. Reviewers have given these a 4.6-star rating on REI.

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The Best Men's Travel Pants of 2024

Have your flights booked? We’ve got your backside covered with the best men’s travel pants on the market for 2024.

From the Andean cloud forests to deep desert canyons, to long backcountry road trips and Parisian markets, these pants have been tested to tackle any adventure and do it all in style. Our travel-worn team has beaten paths around the globe in these slacks, and we’ve tested over 150 different pairs for almost a decade now. If it’s got the right stuff, we’ve saddled up in a pair.

Scroll through to see all of our recommended buys. At the end of our list, be sure to check out our comprehensive buyer's guide . Curious just what makes a pant fit for the rigors of travel? Take a peek at our FAQ section. And if you’re still on the fence (or trying to sneak in under a carry-on weight limit), consult our comparison chart.

Editor’s Note: We updated this guide on May 15, 2024, to add two new worthy travel trousers to the mix: the DUER NuStretch Slim 5-Pocket - a cotton/nylon/spandex pant that has stretch to spare, as well as the Helly Hansen Holmen 5 Pocket Pant , another stellar 5-pocket option.

The Best Men’s Travel Pants of 2024

• Best Overall Men’s Travel Pants: Bluffworks Envoy Lightweight Travel Pants
• Best Budget Men’s Travel Pants: UNIONBAY Rainier Travel Chinos
• Best Travel Pants for Adventuring In: LIVSN Ecotrek Trail Pants
• Best Travel Pants to Look Like a Local: Western Rise Evolution 2 Pants
• Most Comfortable Travel Pants: Proof 72-Hour Merino Travel Pant

Bluffworks Envoy Lightweight Travel Pants

• Fabric 57% recycled polyester, 33% polyester, 10% spandex
• Fabric weight 210 gsm
• Fit True to size
• Weight 15 oz.
• Lightweight fabric dries quickly
• Wrinkle resistant
• Looks and feels more recreational than the Ascenders
• Anti-UV properties
• More comfortable than most pants on the list
• The rear device pocket is uncomfortable to sit on a phone in the back phone pocket
• Lacks a DWR

Bluffworks' Ascender Chino has been at or near the top of our travel pants list for four years now. Our main gripe with the Ascender is the heavy lean into the business side of "business casual." That and the sheer number of pockets sometimes confounded our sleep-deprived travel brains. But now with fewer pockets and less golf-course chino, Bluffworks nailed the perfect travel pants with their Envoy Lightweight Travel Pants iteration ($125).

Trimming the fat started with the pockets. The Envoy drops a pocket to give us nine, but all are functional, and five of them zip shut. Two stealth pockets zip inside the hand pockets, both rear pockets zip shut, and a device pocket zips closed off the thigh and is a great place to store your documents.

Behind the right rear pocket, the Envoy tucks a drop-in style phone pocket below the waistband. This is a brilliant design that is easy to access, yet deep enough to curb sticky fingers. We did find it more comfortable to store the phone on the thigh when seated.  

The Envoys close shut with a zippered fly and metal button sewn into the elastic, belt-friendly waistband. In case you left the belt at home, silicone tabs are welded to the inside of the waistband and help keep the pants from shifting down.

Instead of a 100% durable polyester fabric found in the Ascender Chino, the Envoy is constructed from a recycled polyester spun with 10% spandex, giving the pants a 4-way stretch. On the inside, all seams are overlocked and tacked down with a double stitch on the inseam to keep them from rubbing against the skin and reducing exposure to snags. The pants wear light and supple, and given that they don’t have a gusset sewn into the crotch, we found the Envoys very flexible if not the most comfortable pants on our list.

And that's really where the Envoys shine. If nothing else, a travel pant should go unnoticed - both on you and among potential troublemakers. These pants wear effortlessly, yet are capable of storing all your essentials safely away.

If you haven't tried Bluffworks before, we recommend looking at the Envoy Lightweights over the Ascenders. While the Ascenders have one more pocket (a passport sleeve on the inside of the left front pocket), only three of the 10 pockets zip shut. The styling of the Envoy has five pockets that zip shut and wears more casually without compromising its city chops. 

UNIONBAY Rainier Travel Chinos

• Fabric 94% nylon, 6% spandex
• Fabric weight 173 gsm
• Weight 13 oz.
• Comfortable
• Security options
• Well priced
• Pants run long
• Material tends to collect lint

Travel should never be about the gear. It should be about the experience. An Amazon darling, at $40 a pair, UNIONBAY's Rainier Travel Pants are a steal, leaving more cash in the wallet for traveling.

True to size, the nylon-spandex blend offers just enough stretch for a full range of motion. The pants keep around the waist with a button and have traditional belt loops if you want to class them up with a belt.

Three nylon zipper pockets pair with deep hand pockets. With two in the back and one on the upper right leg, they're big enough to secure a passport, the latest iPhone, a notepad, or all of them together.

The Rainiers are rated to 50 UPF and feel durable in the hand, making them acceptable for activities like hiking. The outermost layer is lightly brushed and tends to collect lint and show stains quicker than other pants we tested, but they wash up easily and the 170 gsm fabric is quick to dry.

While a simple pant when compared to the Bluffworks attention to detail, these chino-style pants hit the core elements we looked for when evaluating the best men's travel pants. If you're looking for a budget pair of travel pants that pack up tight and breeze from the tarmac to restaurants (and maybe a light hike in between), these are it.

The Rainiers are available in four colors: charcoal, navy, black, and khaki.

LIVSN Ecotrek Trail Pants

• Fabric 70% Blue Ocean nylon, 25% nylon, 5% spandex
• Form and function meet the apex pant
• Bomber hardware
• Tons of pockets with versatile security options
• DWR is negligible
• Styling is less formal

LIVSN's Ecotrek Trail Pant  ($129) brings more stretch, lighter weight, and a more athletic design to their tried and true Flex Canvas Pants. And while these new pants are great for climbing, hiking, or other fast-paced activities in warmer climates, we find they hit all the marks for what we love in travel pants too.

Let's start with the many pockets, most of which are zippered. Both rear pockets close with a zipper, offering some much-needed peace of mind. Angling off the back of the left thigh is an additional, horizontal zippered pocket, which is great for gadgets or a small wallet.

Both of the mesh hand pockets have coin sleeves to prevent loose currency or keys from shifting around, and the left front hand pocket has a hidden zippered pocket large enough to protect your phone. Rounding out the seven pockets is a reinforced multitool pocket sitting on the right thigh. With so many pocket options, there's a place for everything that feels designed with purpose instead of over-engineered.

The pocket configuration is dialed, but what sells these pants are the little details. The fabric's synthetic blend doesn't feel stiff, and the smartly tailored material walks quietly, fitting our testers with an ergonomic, yet surprisingly athletic fit.

A metal button closes the front and is backed with a leather pledget to prevent busting out. The Ecotrek Trail pants have belt loops, but if you forget your belt, they include a drawstring that hides inside the waistband. The cuffs are reinforced around the heel and so is the utility tool pocket.

While they don't have a robust DWR, the material breathes very well. When things heat up, the pant legs roll up and keep under a buttoned strap that's been sewn with reflective tape. These little details add up pretty quickly to make the Ecotrek a stellar pant.

Turn the pants inside out, and you really get an appreciation for the quality and care taken to make these pants. All seams are overlocked, with the flat-felled inseam. This kind of stitching increases durability where you need it and comfort where you want it.

Sustainability is core to LIVSN's line of clothes, and the  Ecotrek Trail pant  walks the talk. The material is woven from Oceanflex fabric (70% recycled fishing buoys recovered from the ocean), and the YKK zipper taping is made from recycled ocean plastic. The rest is 25% nylon and 5% spandex for stretch.

If you are looking for lightweight, stretchy, durable pants, the LIVSN Ecotrek Trail Pant stands out as one of the best men's travel pants on the market and can tackle a wide range of activities.

The Ecotrek Trail pants are available in olive, caramel, and charcoal colors, and they come in a range of sizes up to a 40-inch waist and a 34-inch inseam.

Read Review:  Darn-Near Perfect Pants, Made With Recycled Plastic: LIVSN EcoTrek Review

Western Rise Evolution 2 Pants

• Fabric 90% nylon, 10% elastane, woven in Sweden, cut and sewn in the USA
• Fabric weight 107 gsm
• Weight 11 oz.
• Lightweight material breathes just as well as the first
• More durability than the first iteration
• Fantastic fit and construction
• Better mobility than the first iteration
• New fabric feels slightly stiffer (breaks in over time)
• Patch on the inside pocket can feel sticky against the legs (they are changing it to a print)
• Single security pocket is limiting for some travelers

The first iteration of the Evolution was a GearJunkie staple around the office. Simple, functional, durable - it's what we recommended to all our friends who ask us, "What's the best pant for everyday use?" This year, the updated Western Rise Evolution 2.0 ($128) has more stretch, and they are only all the better for it.

This new bump in elastane gives the Evolution 2.0 a significant four-way stretch and increased flexibility without sacrificing durability. The jean-like five-pocket design wears more like denim but has the durability of a hiking pant. In fact, one of our editors wore their pair to the top of the Grand Teton.

At the core of the pant is the nylon-elastane blend with a trim jean cut. The nylon fibers are softened by running them through an air-texturized process and then weaving them into a dynamic yarn. The material has a durable weave that mimics denim (and feels less "khaki").

The DWR coating - or maybe DBR (Durable Beer Resistance) - is outstanding. We wore these pants to Oktoberfest last year where they took the brunt of the fickle Bavarian weather and a rowdy beer hall.

Reach around back, and you'll find a double pocket on the right, with a hidden zipper pocket that's large enough to swallow your passport. Western Rise expanded the front coin pocket and made it big enough to holster the largest phone on the market.

After your trip, roll them up and watch them disappear in your luggage. They tick all the boxes for traveling and were the envy of our photographer while cycling through Colombia.

There aren't many reasons to ding the Evolutions; the material on the new pant feels stiff out of the box but that softens up over time. To help differentiate its pant models (which all have a similar cut and color), Western Rise screened a patch on the inner left pocket. It can feel a little sweaty against the legs.

Aware of this issue, Western Rise is changing that label to a print going forward. One thing that hasn't changed is the pocket configuration. Some will find the additional zipper pocket just the right amount of added security. Others will prefer more pockets to keep their EDCs. And that’s where we find the Evolution falls short. An extra security pocket would send this pant to the top of the list again.

If you want that Western Rise styling but with a wrinkle-resistant fabric, the Diversion pant ($168) is also a great pick. The double-knit canvas weighs 286 gsm, making it more durable overall but sacrificing packability.

If it ain't broke, don't fix it. This fantastic five-pocket jean-style pant has been on our list of the best men's travel pants for 6 years now. For 2 of those years, they were our top pick. We use the Western Rise Evolution 2.0s as a benchmark for fit and comfort and we recommend them to friends looking for a do-everything pant that flies fashionably under the radar.

Proof 72-Hour Merino Travel Pant

• Fabric 47% merino wool, 33% nylon, 14% polyester, 6% elastane
• Fabric weight 247 gsm
• Weight 16.5 oz.
• Gusseted crotch
• Good fit and stretch
• Pricey - $200 can buy you two (or three) other pants on the list
• Weighs an ounce or two more than other similar pants
• Lacks a dedicated device pocket

Merino pants? 100%. Proof is Huckberry's in-house performance wear, with the 72-Hour line as their go-to travel clothes under the Proof name. New this year, Huckberry released the 72-Hour Travel Pant ($198), and while expensive, it has a lot of merits. We learned it’s all in the fabric.

Wool has natural antimicrobial, DWR, and UPF protection characteristics that we usually laud about when discussing base layers . Because wool wicks moisture, the pants breathe well and keep you feeling dry even in hot climates and sticky bus rides. It keeps the stench down and the comfort high. All things we look for when traveling. 

This is the first merino wool pant we've seriously considered, and it makes a lot of sense. If you are going far with limited space, you need to trim the fat. And while cutting out extra shirts and pants may once have been a questionable decision, it's a lot easier when one pair of pants delivers so well.

The design team gave some thoughtful reflection to the 72-Hour pant. Complimenting the five-pocket design is a hidden zippered pocket inside the right rear pocket. The panels are sewn together with a combination of comfortable overstitched inseams, flat-sewn gussets, and durable flat-felled side seams.

The pants are sewn together with a combination of flat-felled and welted overlocked joints, then finished with a robust DWR. All this tech stays under the radar with black hardware finishes.

As styling goes, we find the Proof 72-Hour Travel Pant to be on par with Western Rise's Evolution 2's, which around the office we can agree are one of the best styled pants available today. The comfort award, however, goes to the Proofs.

Teren Lightweight Traveler Pants

• Fabric 88% nylon, 12% spandex
• Fabric weight 154 gsm
• Pre-treated with an insect repellant
• Stain resistant
• Internal drawstring for extra waist security
• Three zipper-closed pockets
• Lightweight
• Tanto-style pocket to clip your EDC
• Magnetic closure catches on anything metal
• No durable water repellant finish

Threading the needle between style, function, and durability, Teren's Lightweight Traveler ($130) is our pick for folks who want one pant to do it all.

The Lightweight Traveler is a tapered chino-style pant with six pockets. Three pockets secure your goods with a zipper. Two zip shut vertically behind the front pockets and the third secures the right back pocket. The pants are washed in Permethrin to ward off critters. Plus, they're antimicrobial, stain resistant, and offer UV protection.

Our editor Chris Carter wore his Lightweight Travelers on the Continental Divide thru-hike, where they withstood miles of intense bushwhacking through thorny, overgrown trails and post-holing through deep snow. Carter lauded the pants' ability to stay stench-free for weeks on end.

After the adventure is done, the stain-release fabric readily releases dirt and grime in the wash. These chinos easily suit up for a night on the town.

The Lightweight Travelers ditch the classic button and use a pair of sewn-in magnets to close around the waist. While wearing the pants around town and doing weekend chores, the magnetic closure often got stuck on metal objects.

They snapped to my grocery cart, to my truck bed, to my knife, to loose screws while repairing my gate. Curious about the strength, I went into my garage and started hanging hardware off the pants. The magnet is strong enough to hold a hammer.

But, lean over to tie your shoes (or eat a big meal) and the magnetic fasteners slide apart easily. Stand up, and they pull right back together.

Yeah, the magnetic closure is different and takes some getting used to. Is it problematic? Maybe. The gauss, or magnetic induction, could demagnetize small metal springs in mechanical watches. Given the most popular watch is a smartwatch - this isn't an issue for most of us. But magnets can also demagnetize credit cards and hotel room keys. We didn't try to demagnetize a credit card, but it's something to consider when zipping items in the front pockets.

Worried about the magnet holding the pants up? Backed with belt loops and an internal drawstring, the pants have plenty of options to keep them around the waist.

Other issues: The offset zippered front pockets drop into the same front hand pocket sleeve. They fight for the same real estate, compromising overall storage. We found these pockets a little challenging to access while seated in tight spaces.

For those looking for rain or spill protection, the Terens don't sport a durable water repellant (DWR). But they do dry out quickly.

With so many pros, these are small cons. The spandex weave yields significant mobility while the nylon deflects catches and tears - all while keeping the pants just over 10 ounces. It's a great combination of durability and flexibility in a quick-drying pant that packs down small. At 11 ounces, the Lightweight Traveler is truly lightweight, competing only with Western Rise's Evolution 2's.

KÜHL Suppressor Jogger

• Fabric 85% nylon, 15% spandex
• Fabric weight 165 gsm
• Weight 12 oz.
• Light and packable
• Durable and stretchy
• KÜHL drop in style pockets are fantastic
• Fabric is noisy
• No button-no fly minimalism may not appeal to everyone
• Only one zippered pocket on the backside

KÜHL has a strong reputation throughout the outdoor industry for making bomber, thoughtfully designed pieces. And its sub-$100 Suppressor Joggers exemplify those qualities in spades.

The 85% nylon, 15% spandex blend is lightweight, stretchy, breathable, and durable. Plus, a solid DWR treatment rebuffs Mother Nature's fickle temperament.

Like any good pair of travel pants, the Suppressor's sport well-thought-out pockets. The angled hand pockets are deep and easy to access while seated. A single stealth pocket zips behind the right back side, and drop-in pockets grace both thighs.

Drop-in pockets are our favorite design to haul devices. They snug the phone but keep your data within reach. The best of the batch fit on the backside of the leg, maintaining accessibility and minimizing the bounce. KÜHL has two of them. Riding down the back of the quads, they are perfect for clipping multitools, knives, or pens, and sheath a phone, passport, or tickets. And it's these drop-in pockets that make the Suppressor our favorite pant to wear on the plane. Everything stays within easy reach.

If there's any knock against the Suppressor Joggers , it's that these are simple pull-on pants. No button, no fly - just an elastic waist and drawstring. On the flip side, this keeps things quick when moving through TSA – there's no pulling off the belt and redressing after pat-downs.

Ornot Mission Pants

• Fabric 95% nylon, 5% elastane
• Fabric weight 232 gsm
• Weight 14 oz.
• Gusseted design gives a great fit
• Reflective details on cuffs
• Made in USA
• Not many – An extra pockets or a drop in phone sleeve, and these would be our top choice for travel pants

When it comes to fit and function, cyclists have it all figured out. Stretch, durability, DWR, and ergonomic pocket layout make a great commuter pant. Fall short on any of these, cyclists will be quick to call you out.

San Francisco-based Ornot hit all the paces with its Mission Shorts. This year, the brand released its beloved short in a pant. True to the brand, the Mission Pants ($148) pull off an effortlessly classy-looking pant. Minimalist aesthetics, five pockets (two that zip shut), and the rear pockets angle off the midline for easy access. The stealth thigh pocket zips contents securely off the back of the leg. The leeward position pegs the device to the leg while in the saddle.

We found the Mission Pants to be lighter than other commuter pants on the market. The 232 gsm fabric breathes well and moves with the body without feeling like a protective shell. They wear easy at the office and feel at home on the street. And if you grab a bike by the horns, both cuffs flip up to reveal reflective hits to keep you seen on the go.

We've been following this small brand for years and it keeps bringing its A-game to market. These garments are all made in the USA and offer a 1-year warranty. The brand's Mission Pants are great on the bike … or not.

Jetty Acadia 2.0 Utility Pant

• Fabric 100% polyester
• Fabric weight 240 gsm
• Weight 16 oz.
• Good stretch
• Comfortable fit
• Drawstring and belt loops
• Only available in a 32 inseam
• Pants stretch and lightly pill over time
• Front occasionally unbuttons too easily

Jetty's Acadia Utility Pant ($100) straddles the shoreline between board short and the boardroom. But don't let its slick chino veneer dissuade you. 

The 100% polyester material is warp-knitted, interlocking the poly fibers into a smooth-faced fabric. Jetty sewed in a gusset in the crotch to add extra room for the legs. The combination of cut and materials gives the Acadia an amazing amount of stretch in all directions. 

And it also gives the pants fantastic wrinkle resistance. We've pulled our Acadias out of overstuffed bags and walked into meetings with deceivingly fresh-pressed-looking pants.

Two pockets zip shut on the backside to keep your goods protected, and the mesh hand pockets are deep. Riding down the right leg is a drop-in device pocket. There is plenty of room in the drop-in pocket, and plenty of room in the relaxed quads before they taper slightly to the bottom hem. This extra room in the thighs lets the phone bounce more than we'd like.

The Acadia Utility Pants close with a tarnished brass button embossed with the Jetty logo. A drawstring is sewn into the waistband so you won't ever lose it in the wash. And in case you do need to go into the boardroom, Jetty ports the drawstring on both sides of the waistband, so you can tuck the drawstring on the inside of the pants for a polished look.

KETL Mountain Apparel Shenanigan Outdoor Pant

• Fabric 96% nylon, 4% spandex
• Fabric weight 156 gsm
• Integrated web belt
• Three zippered pockets (two in back and one behind the thigh)
• Deep mesh hand pockets
• Quiet material
• Lifetime free repair program
• Free shipping and returns
• Slim fit won't appeal to some. Slimmest pant in the lineup
• Front snap is weak
• Metal belt clasp may invite a wanding at TSA

At $100, the KETL Mountain Apparel Shenanigan Outdoor Pants are a refreshing blend of style and tech and one helluva outdoor pant. The nylon twill is blended with a touch of spandex yielding room for adventure in a quiet yet bomber pant. 

Should you decide to bring these trousers off-piste, the durable twill has a robust DWR, shunning even the wettest brush. Deep mesh hand pockets and zippered rear pockets make sure all your goods stay where you put them. A roomy device pocket zips shut along the right thigh.

To keep the pants up, an integrated web belt hooks over the button closure. For better (or worse) the belt is sewn into the pants and cannot be removed. KETL bonded a bead of silicon inside the waistband to prevent the pants from riding down. We found these pants stay glued to the backside while wearing a pack.

Across the board, KETL pants fit slim. If you have athletic calves and quads, these will feel snug. If you prefer a more relaxed fit, these probably won't be a pant for you. What it lacks in room, it gives back in performance. The lack of extra material makes the Shenanigan a great choice for cycling. The durability, flexibility, and tapered fit soar on the mountain bike.

Available only online, KETL makes it easy to buy and return. They offer free shipping both ways and back up their products with a lifetime repair program. But trust us, you’ll want to keep a hold of your KETL Mountain Apparel Shenanigan Outdoor Pants .

Orvis O.O.O.O. 5-Pocket Pants

• Fabric 51% cotton, 45% nylon, 4% Lycra
• Fabric weight 213 gsm
• Fit Casual boot cut, true to size
• Classically inspired 5-pocket design
• Hidden 6th zippered pocket in right rear pocket
• Reflective strips sewn inside both legs for visibility
• Smallest size is 32"
• No gusset for extra mobility. Not that they need it.
• Slightly less fashionable option to Western Rise's Evolution 2

You don't have to pack a rod to appreciate Orvis's O.O.O.O. 5-Pocket Pants ($129). These easy-wearing cotton-poly pants are a cross between your favorite denim and a lightweight khaki. The warp-knit twill has a touch of mechanical stretch and a DWR that is tough enough to negotiate riverside scrambles after work but with enough swagger to make it back to dinner in style.

Sewn together with an exposed overlock stitch, the seam is left exposed on the inside. It’s not tacked down. Though not as durable as a welted seam, the O.O.O.O. (that’s Out-Of-Office, Office) pants trend more durable than many of the pants we've seen. This seems entirely appropriate for the classic 5-pocket design pants.

The rear right pocket has an extra hidden zippered pocket to keep your wallet, passport, or fishing license securely stowed. In case you are riding home, both leg’s bottom hems have a six-inch strip of reflective tape sewn into the side seam. We didn't expect that kind of attention to detail from a fishing brand, but it's a nice touch that we appreciate.

We've been wearing the O.O.O.O. 5-Pocket Pants for years now and found that they are durable, lightweight, and breathable.

Eddie Bauer Guide Pro End-to-Ender Pants

• Fabric 56% CORDURA® nylon, 37% nylon, 7% spandex
• Fabric weight Unnkown
• Burly CORDURA fabric
• Seven pocket design with three that close securely
• Limited color ways
• Backcountry styling doesn't blend as well in the city

Eddie Bauer's Guide Pro is a favorite with the GearJunkie staff. Classic fit, logical pocket layout, and top-shelf construction, these pants are frequently on sale and will last you for years. The Guide Pro End-to-Ender ($119) is Bauer's beefed Guide Pro, and with a CORDURA nylon build, it's more durable without sacrificing the weight, and it is 2 oz lighter. If you like to scramble around and get a little dirt under the nails while traveling, these pants are for you. 

Constructed with a vertical weft knit and a generous portion of spandex, the pants have some lateral stretch but are vertically static. Articulated pleats help buy the pants mobility around the knees. 

Seven generous and well-positioned pockets dot the pants. In addition to the pair of double-reinforced deep hand pockets, a pair of map pockets rest over the thighs. The left zips shut while the right thigh pocket has a flap that overlaps the lip of the pocket, keeping the contents from bouncing out. On the backside, two flap pockets snap shut and a third patch pocket hides under the right rear pocket.

The thigh pockets are sewn into the pants. This gives the pockets a clean and integrated look. Because Eddie Bauer stitches the entire pant together with overlocked seams, you can feel the extra bulk of the pocket seams against the leg. These are the one of two pants on our list sewn entirely with overlock stitching, and it's worth noting. This extra measure of stitching provides more durability, but you’ll feel the bulk. You get used to it over time. It's really a testament to the overall bomber construction of the End-to-Enders. 

The pants close with a beefy zipper and fat button which stay closed. Belt loops are tacked to the waistband for extra options. And two eyelets are punched through the bottom hem of each pant leg, allowing you to run a gaiter cord through the pants if you want.

Eddie Bauer is a stalwart when it comes to value. While the styling is more traditional, the Guide Pro End-to-Ender is one of the best-built pants we've seen on the market. And since Eddie Bauer seems to run a sale about every other month, you can eventually find them about 40% off, making the a fantastic deal.

Municipal Overland Cargo

• Fabric 98% cotton ripstop, 2% spandex
• Fabric weight 160 gsm
• Fit Athletic
• Forward style
• Six pockets, with three that zip shut, and one that snaps shut
• Draw cord around the bottom hem
• Elastic waist
• Offered in one length
• Treading into expensive territory for a simple pull-up cargo pant

Military meets gym day. From Mark Wahlberg's warehouse of hustle and sporting style, Municipal's Overland Cargo ($128) deconstructs the traditional cargo pant and injects modern flair. Which is a notable feat in itself.

Typically, function dictates form on cargo pants. Patched with oversized, baggy pockets can make them wear bulky and look unflattering. The Overland weaves a touch of spandex into the mostly cotton material, sews in a gusseted crotch, and pleated articulated knees to net functional mobility in a slim jogger style pant. These wear less Operation Desert Storm and slide right into urban core.

This doesn't imply they lost their way. With six streamlined pockets, there is room for all your EDC essentials. In addition to the two deep hand pockets, two rear pockets zip shut. A vertical zipper pocket glides easily over the thigh, and the definitive cargo pocket snaps shut over the left leg with a single button. The entire pant is sewn together with overlocked and welted seams.

Available in size S-3X, the Overlands come in one length - the ideal length for anyone. True to jogger style, the bottom hem stops before the ankle.

An elastic cord is sewn into the bottom hem and can be cinched tight around the leg with a cord lock. Because of these design decisions, the length rides on its style credibility and has an acceptable universal size allowance.

Wahlberg's style keeps you guessing whether he's coming from or going to the gym. No button to pull out, no fly to blow, these pants pull up like sweatpants and stay around the waist with a simple drawstring. The Overland Cargo follows Wahlberg's "I don't care … but I look good doing it" aesthetic and is a great option for a casual lightweight pant with pockets aplenty.

For those that are cargo-curious - or simply want to throw on a pair of pants and look good without giving it much thought - the Overland Cargos have subtle posture without leaning heavily into athleisure.

DUER NuStretch Slim 5-Pocket

• Fabric 60% cotton, 35% nylon, 5% spandex
• Fabric Weight Unknown
• Weight Unavailable
• Cotton/nylon/spandex blend has a soft finish and good stretch
• Stealth pocket on right thigh conceals a phone
• Five pockets overall offers a good amount of storage
• Gusset allows for great mobility, even in a slim fit
• Slim fit might not be for everyone, also available in a relaxed fit
• No DWR finish

We've seen many pants from DUER, and while always comfortable, the cotton-blend foundation is often too heavy and bulky for travel. The DUER NuStretch Slim 5-Pocket ($139) bucks this trend.

This isn't your dad's cotton trouser. Built around a cotton-nylon-spandex blend, the fabric feels light and stretchy. The material feels soft against the skin and has a slightly formal finish that makes it work-appropriate. 

Like Helly Hansen's Holmen , the material is sewn together using a combination of welted overlocking seams in the gussets and inseam for durability, with a simple plain stitch on the side seam for comfort. The same style of stealth pocket zips down the right thigh and holsters a device out of sight. Unlike the Holmen, the side pocket drops behind the thigh, and the crotch gusset is much larger. DUER adds a proper coin pocket to make this an honest ‘6-pocket’ pant.

Overall, this simple 5-pocket pant levels up in style, but with a timeless appeal. Given the multiple color options, there's a DUER NuStretch 5-Pocket Pant for everyone.

Helly Hansen Holmen 5 Pocket Pant

• Fabric 94% polyamide, 6% elastane
• DWR PFC-free DWR
• Understated, but very comfortable
• Warp stretch twill material has impressive stretch
• Bluesign-approved with a PFC-fee DWR finish
• Outdoors-oriented fit and cut
• Thigh pocket isn't in the best placement
• Limited number of colorways

Great fit with a touch of stretch, Helly Hansen's Holmen 5-Pocket Pant ($100) is constructed from warp-stretch synthetic twill. The interlocking loops give the material a soft-in-the-hand feel with superb mobility that wears equally easy to the office or in the backcountry.

The classic five-pocket design hides the fifth pocket down the right side seam of the pants. This stealth pocket is the only pocket that zips shut, and the contents fit over the thigh instead of dropping down behind the thigh. While not always the most comfortable, we prefer thigh pockets that ride behind the thigh. This gives you a little extra confidence that the contents won't spill while opening the pocket while seated in coach. Regardless, the thigh pocket is plenty big and comfortable to hold the contents.

Overbuilt for the outdoors, a combination of stitching and pleats provides mobility, durability, and comfort. The inseam is stitched together using a plain seam, and the extra material flares out to the side for comfort. The inseam and gusset have overlocked welted seams for durability. Helly Hansen added an articulating pleat around the knee for extra mobility. Finally, the pants close with a button and a hook closure on the inside. This extra amount of closure helps balance the load around the waist.

The Helly Hansen Holmen is a low-thrill pant that delivers. It's not flashy, and it has minimal pockets for a travel pant, but it’s one of the more comfortable pants we tested this year.

Men’s Travel Pants Comparison Chart

How we tested men’s travel pants.

There are few other products we test at GearJunkie that are considered non-negotiable in society. Outside the house, you gotta wear pants (or shorts). And if you're choosing shorts, you're probably not looking at the right pants. Travel pants are part of our everyday uniform allowing us to test them daily. We test pants for the office grind, after-school errands, dispatching weekend chores, and yes, of course, travel, constantly logging test hours to find the best travel pants on the market.

Cozy in coach, capable of tackling adventure, but formal enough to wear to dinner, travel pants span the use case spectrum. We’ve worn them on intercontinental flights to Germany, Italy, France, and Slovenia, as well as transcontinental flights from Jacksonville to Boise. In warmer climates, we've pulled them out of our bikepacking bags on cool nights in Nicaragua and high up on the Colombian Coffee Triangle. One tester even wore his pair to the top of the Grand Teton.

When we get our hands on a new pant, we first take a look at the materials. We gauge the fabric weight, breathability, and the material's ability to resist wrinkling. Synthetics with a DWR will pack down smaller, bounce back from being jammed in luggage on an overnight flight, and resist stains (and spills) better than cotton.

A touch of spandex affords some stretch and nylon tends to be more durable. We then turn them inside out to look at the seams joining the pants together, looking at where costs were cut and potential quality issues might cause a blowout on the road.

To be considered for our list, pants need at least one pocket that can be zipped shut to safely secure a passport or wallet. The hand pockets should be deep enough to keep keys and change from accidentally spilling out, or have zippers that prevent mishaps. No joke, one pair of pants we tested (not on this list) spit a wallet out at work without us even knowing it.

We then evaluated each pant's fit, durability, packability, ability to bounce back from repeated wash and wear, and unpacking. We want to find out if a pair of pants can be washed in the sink in the evening and be ready to wear the following morning.

We want to see if the material resists wrinkling. And we want to know if the pants are cut too large, too small, or hike up the legs. The best material and construction alone can't fake a good fit. We test pants for mobility and proper length. Does the pant bind in the crotch? Are the gussets appropriate? Are the legs cut at a proper length or do they ride up when walking?

Our testing focuses primarily on comfort, versatility, and functionality when in transit, so if you're looking for something more durable for active pursuits, check out our picks for the  best hiking pants . We also have a guide for the  best women's travel pants  to get your travel companion ready for the long haul.

Testing History

Steve Graepel has been leading the men's travel pant buyer guide since 2015. Over the span of 8 years, Graepel has seen over 225 pairs of travel pants, rigorously testing 150 pants. Graepel has worked at GearJunkie as a contributing editor since 2009, testing everything from packrafts, to bike bags, sleeping bags, winter boots, and trail runners. His latest beat is travel pants and flannels. Before his time as a fashion blogger, he wrote for Travel Idaho, National Geographic Adventure, Patagonia's Tin Shed, Trail Runner, and Gear Patrol.

Graepel has researched and tested travel pants extensively - traveling, working, and camping in the high alpine desert of Idaho, Montana, and Utah, and traveling abroad in a variety of environments including Europe, Asia, Central, and South America. He continues to test travel pants year-round and searches for anyone who will listen to his yarns about the best travel trousers.

In 2020, we tried 27 pairs and listed 15 pants on our men's buyers guide. In 2021, we tested an additional 35 pairs, highlighting nine new pants on our list. In 2022 we saw an additional 23 pairs, adding six new pants. In 2023 we looked at 38 pairs, adding seven new pants to the men's travel pant buyer's guide. Finally, in 2024, we’ve reviewed 27 pants, updating our Men’s Travel Pants buyer guide with nine new pants.

Each year introduces new styles and materials, and we try to reflect the best on the market of that year. Some trousers remain on the list, year after year. They are either so good, or so good of a deal, that they are tough to topple.

To keep a finger on the pulse of pants, we read reviews from top sites and contact manufacturers directly. Steve Graepel has regular conversations with pant brand owners and representatives in the travel pant space. These relationships allow us to stay up to date on what makes pants better every year, and keep an eye on sleeper pants that just don't have the marketing budget to get mass attention.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Travel Pants

Regardless of whether the pants are straight-leg or slim, a good pair is one that follows the human form and doesn’t bag out after repeated washings, or bloat when packed with your phone and keys. The length should fit your inseam or run longer so you can roll them up or get them tailored.

Almost every pant on our list has a great fit. If they didn’t, we’ve shared the cons. Both the Jetty’s and UNIONBAY’s pants ran a little long. On the other end, Municipal’s Overland Cargo is short by design and is only available in one length. Both Eddie Bauer and Orvis offer a variety of inseams for a dialed fit (from 30″ to 34″). To dial in the fit of the waist for models with belt loops, we typically try to find a travel and adventure-friendly belt that allows us to get through TSA without needing to remove it.

We scored each pant for both its ability to adventure, wear in coach, and hit the streets. Some pants, like KETL Mountains Shenanigans, have a bias for stout use. The Shenanigans are coated with a solid DWR and are our choice for adventure trips where you can’t sacrifice durability.

If traveling by plane, we prefer comfortable pants with accessible pockets. While 5-pocket styled jeans or chinos wear well on the street, their pockets are harder to access when sitting on the plane. Instead, we prefer a jogger or cargo pant that has vertical zippered pockets and drop-in device pockets on the legs.

Both Municipal and KÜHL had easy-to-access pockets in the plane. Eddie Bauer’s Guide Pro End-to-Ender has two generous thigh pockets. But both are sewn into the pants and tighten up over the thigh when seated. This makes it harder to pull the contents out.

For comfort in coach, you don’t need to look past Bluffworks Envoy . They look great and have plenty of pockets to stay organized. KÜHL’s Suppressor Jogger dialed in the drop-in pockets and is lightweight and durable, but the material isn’t nearly as soft as Eddie Bauer’s pants. It’s always a trade-off.

Style Matters

While comfort is key, we also need to be able to show ourselves in public (no washed-out gray sweatpants on this list). The most versatile travel clothes should be able to tackle a hike without getting roughed up, or walk into town looking sharp enough to peruse a museum, and duck in for fine dining afterward.

Unfortunately, the cargo pockets take away some formality while out on the town. With its jogger styling, KÜHL didn’t design around Michelin stars. They prioritized function and durability, mapping to utility. KÜHL, Municipal, and Eddie Bauer each have unique cargo styling that brings a touch of modernity to the military-inspired side-pocket pants. In general, we love cargo-style pants and joggers while sitting on the plane. It keeps all your essentials within reach.

On the other hand, Western Rise’s Evolution 2 and Proof’s 72-Hour Merino are fantastically styled everyday pants, but both have a single security pocket to maintain that sleek look. They are our go-to choice for travels to big cities where we want to kick up the look and feel at home while traveling abroad.

Clean lines, darker colors, and traditional styling help you blend into crowds and stave off the would-be pickpocket's radar. The best men’s travel pants should look as good as they feel without shouting " tourist ."

The material should be lightweight and, in our preference, darker to minimize showing the dirt collected along the way. That said, we were astounded by how well a fresh DWR can resist stains on even the fairest beige pants.

Fabric Weight

Lightweight performance fabrics can withstand repeated washings in a sink, line dry overnight, and stay wrinkle-free after weeks on the go. Today’s fabrics offer advanced sun protection and moisture-wicking properties and are often water-resistant or water-repellent.

Fabric weight is measured in grams per square meter (GSM). A heavier GSM will take up more room in your bag and take longer to dry. We find a 200-ish GSM fabric weight, like on our top pick from Bluffworks, light and breezy, and dries out quickly.

A welterweight fabric will disappear in the bag and dry out insanely fast, but going too light sacrifices durability. All the pants we tested are durable enough to venture off the pavement.

If you want the lightest pant you can find, give KETL Mountain’s Shenanigan a look. The 156 GSM fabric rolls up tight and is exceptionally durable. Western Rise also uses a lighter GSM fabric, but the pants weigh more overall.

Fabric Type

A cotton blend fabric adds breathability and a cooling effect, which is great for warmer climates, but can also sacrifice durability. And, unless treated with a DWR, cotton can wet out more easily and hold water longer.

The Orvis and Municipal’s Overland Cargo weave some cotton into their blend. To beef up the durability, the natural fiber is woven with a synthetic like polyester or nylon and an elastic component for stretch.

If you choose to go with denim or cotton, consider a stretchy fabric with a bit of spandex or elastane for comfort and flexibility while on the road. It will resist wear longer, dry faster, and feel much more comfortable. While not on this year’s list, Aviator’s The Best Travel Jeans in the World are very comfortable and weave in some stretch, but they weigh nearly twice as much as every other pant on the list. Our cotton choices keep the weight down.

Most of the pants on this list are woven from synthetic fibers. Synthetics tend to stand up to more abuse than their natural counterparts. For example, Ornot’s Mission Pant is incredibly durable and is built for men who abuse pants while in the saddle.

Unique this year, we saw a merino wool synthetic blend with Proof’s 72-Hour Merino Travel Pant. Wool is known for its odor-resistant and insulative qualities. Contrary to what you might think, they stay surprisingly cool and breathe well in hot climates. For durability and stretch, Proof weaves nylon, polyester, and a touch of elastane.

Weaving in spandex or elastic adds mobility, but can also give the pants a polished, slick finish. KÜHL weaves in a whopping 15% spandex into the material, but most pants will have between 2-6% for a combination of durability and mobility. Bluffworks , Unionbay , and Jetty feel more formal with their smooth-faced fabric finishes. Material finishes are more of a personal preference and don’t affect their water resistance, which is added with a DWR wash.

Our favorite pants come from Bluffworks. While the fit is fantastic, they don’t have a DWR. This makes them less desirable if you are traveling to places that rain a lot. However, they excel in so many other ways that they still stand out as our top choice. On the flip side, Western Rise’s DWR not only deflects dirt and grime on the road, but liters of beer simply rolled off them at Oktoberfest. We really took one for the team while testing.

Performance fabrics are standing up to heavy use like never before. Shelling out a few more bucks for quality generally gets you into a more durable pant that should hold up to more extensive use. We’ve put in countless hours testing the pants on this list, so you’re starting in the right place.

Seam Construction

Seams are often overlooked. Out of sight, out of mind, seams bring two patches of fabric together and are crucial for durability and comfort. But this is where we can differentiate the good from the great, and this is where we get passionately nerdy.

Flat-felled seams are best for joining heavy fabrics together. Think denim. The material doesn’t stretch and the fabric is woven from heavy cotton yarn. You want a solid seam to join the pants together. The fabric is joined, then rolled over itself and double stitched for a clean, bomber fasten.

None of the pants on our list are joined entirely from flat-felled seams, though LIVSN and Proof incorporate a flat-fell seam on at least one leg seam. In general, we find it more important to flat-fell the inseam of the pants (which is what Proof does).

Too much material tacked together with a flat-fell seam can cause rubbing against the legs. And most travel pants are constructed from lighter-weight fabrics, so pants don’t always need this extra durable seam construction.

They can get away with a less expensive, and more comfortable overlocked seam. An overlocking stitch, or welt-seam, has a lower profile, leaving the raw edge exposed but sewn down to the pant. Plus they are nearly as durable as the venerable flat-felled stitch, but can feel more comfortable.

Some overlocked stitches aren’t tacked down. That is, the seam isn’t locked down flat with a second row of stitching, leaving the surged seam exposed on the inside. This usually isn’t a big deal. Our main concern would be that the stitching could get caught on something and start to unravel. But we haven’t ever had this experience and it’s a fine option to use when binding two lightweight materials together. Orvis, Ornot, and even Bluffworks uses a combination of overlocked and welted overlocked seams.

The simplest seam, or plain seam, joins the two sides together with a simple, single stitch. Often the cut material is finished with a surger to prevent the material from fraying, but the joining seam itself is sewn together with a single stitch, and the exposed edges butterfly on the inside of the pant.

This is often used for lightweight material where want to reduce the bulk as much as possible. We see this used on Western Rise’s Evolution 2. In theory, this is not a highly durable seam construction. And we’ve seen this kind of seam unravel on a few pants we’ve tested. We’ve also been beating our Western Rise’s for years now and have yet to see their plain seam blow.

We like a pant that doesn't ride up or bind when seated, and moves with you when active. DUER and KÜHL are very close at the top, for pure comfort, you can't beat  Bluffworks Envoy . Beyond the fantastic material, the pant is is available in slim and regular fit, so there's truly a comfortable pant for everyone's preference.

We've tested  Western Rise's Evolution lineup  standing outside in Bogota monsoon season, climbing snow and ice on the Grand, and prosting over beers at Oktoberfest. The DWR not only sheds spills, but it deflects dirt and grime too.

After a week of wearing them across the Alps, including a day sitting in the stairwell of an overbooked train to Munich, we were shocked at how clean our light khaki Evolution 2.0s walked off the return flight. We were also impressed with KETL Mountain’s Shenanigan’s. Water immediately beads off the surface.

If you're bringing one pair of pants, you'll eventually have to wash them while on the road. A lightweight synthetic pant is your best bet for a comfortable morning. Here again, Western Rise's Evolutions  rose to the top. They are lightweight, durable, and dry out quicker than most. They also remain cool and breezy in hot climates and wear supremely well.

The pair of large cargo pockets on Muncipal’s Overland Cargo are easy to access and have plenty of space to hold your kit and do it without looking like Urkel. For an equally impressive pocket game, but a more polished look, we recommend looking at Bluffworks Envoy, which stealthily hides nine pockets in the otherwise casual-looking chino. Eddie Bauer’s Guide Pro End-to-Ender is close, with seven practical and accessible pockets.

With their high CORDURA count, the Eddie Bauers are tough to beat. Ornot’s Mission pants weaves a high nylon count, and come in a very close second for durability.

For long flights on the plane, we like comfortable, casual look with easy pocket access. We give the nod to Municipal’s Overland Cargo. The deep horizontal pockets are easy to access while seated and the high cotton count breathes well.

KÜHL’s Suppressor Joggers have the highest spandex count on the list at 15%. They are super flexible, light, durable, and have a good DWR. For a more formal look, Bluffworks has an equally impressive spandex weave (10%) and is by far the most comfortable pant on our list. 

For a good combination of flexibility, durability, and all-around wearability, we recommend Western Rise’s Evolution 2. If you want to splurge, we also liked Proof’s 72-Hour Merino Travel Pant, which blends 6% elastane into the wool-synthetic base. Proof’s pants are nearly a one-and-done purchase. They are durable and stay stench-free on the road, making them the only pants you may need to bring.

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