Best Women’s Travel Pants

Traveling can be an involved and exhausting undertaking, but staying comfortable on long plane rides and packed buses can help make the experience more bearable. Travel pants can be a key part of this equation. Many of today’s leading designs are stretchy, breathable, quick-drying, and versatile enough to pull double duty around town or outdoors. In ranking our favorites, we also prioritized designs with good long-term durability and practical pocket layouts for securely stashing your essentials while on the move. Our top pick, Outdoor Research's Ferrosi Transit, checks most of our boxes for the ideal travel pant, but there are lots of options to choose from. From modern joggers to storage-equipped leggings and sleek ankle-length designs, we break down our favorite women’s travel pants. For men, we have a list of our favorite men's travel pants. And if you're also on the hunt for travel storage, check out our best travel duffels and travel backpacks.
 

Our Team’s Women’s Travel Pant Research

• Best Overall Women’s Travel Pant: Outdoor Research Ferrosi Transit
• Best Budget Women’s Travel Pant: Columbia All Seasons Boot Cut Pants
• Best Women’s Travel Leggings: Free Fly All Day Pocket Leggings
• Best Women's Jeans for Travel: Ripton & Co. Superlite Utility Jeans
• Best Versatility for Dressing Up or Down: Free Fly Sullivan's Pants
• Best Hiking-Ready Travel Pants: Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle
• Our Other Favorite Women's Travel Pants
• How Many Days Can I Wear Travel Pants Before They Need to Be Washed?
• Tested & Dismissed Women's Travel Pants
• Women's Travel Pants Comparison Table
• Our Women's Travel Pants Testing Process
• How to Choose Women's Travel Pants
• Women's Travel Pants FAQ

Best Overall Women’s Travel Pant

Outdoor Research Ferrosi Transit ($105)

Material: 46% recycled nylon, 40% nylon, 14% spandex
Waist: Elastic, mid-rise
Pockets: 4
What we like: Ferrosi fabric is well-suited for both travel and outdoor use.
What we don’t: Not the easiest to dress up, and we have some small gripes with the fit.

Outdoor Research’s Ferrosi has been one of our go-to hiking pants for years, and the Transit variation is a more travel-friendly (but still entirely trail-ready) take on that longtime favorite. Like the standard Ferrosi, the Ferrosi Transit uses a softshell-like nylon that’s light but tough, and the generous dose of spandex gives the pants a stretchy and flexible feel. In testing, the Ferrosi Transit dried quickly, held its shape even after multiple days of use, and offered a nice balance between protection and breathability (it can cut the wind while still allowing enough airflow in warm weather). Most of the smaller details are equally well sorted, including a practical storage layout (two generously sized hand pockets and two zippered rear pockets) for both travel and outdoor use, reflective detailing along the cuffs for visibility at night, and UPF 50+ sun protection.

No pant is perfect, and we have some gripes with the Ferrosi Transit. First, it isn't the easiest to dress up for the office or for a nice dinner. A nice pair of sandals or flats can help, but the style is best suited for the trail and pairs well with hiking shoes or boots. We also had a couple of quibbles with the fit: There’s more bagginess than we’d prefer around the lower stomach (though the waistband is snug without being restrictive), while the thighs are on the snug side. The hand pockets flare out a bit, although it’s subtle and doesn’t detract from overall comfort. These gripes aside, the Ferrosi Transit is a great, well-rounded option, especially for those who plan to hike at their destination.
See the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Transit

Best Budget Women’s Travel Pant

Columbia All Seasons Bootcut Pants ($70)

Material: 91% nylon, 9% elastane
Waist: Elastic, mid-rise
Pockets: 3
What we like: A streamlined, UPF 50 pant for significantly less than most competitors.
What we don’t: A step down in material quality and features from the pricier options here.

We often turn to budget leader Columbia for functional apparel at great prices, and their All Seasons Bootcut is one of our favorites. This versatile, stain-resistant pant has a moderate fit and a comfortable waistband that foregoes a button fly/drawcord in favor of smooth elastic. The majority-nylon build has a touch of elastane, adding additional shape-holding and stretch without losing the lightweight, breathable build. The pants are highly moisture-resistant and quick-drying, and the styling is decently versatile—great for exploring around town and heading out to dinner afterward. The pant is also UPF 50, offering solid sun protection for warm-weather destinations. Most importantly, it costs about half as much as many competitors while still performing well for outdoor use. 

All that said, cutting costs often comes with a drop in quality, and the Columbia All Seasons aren’t immune. While lightweight, the fabric has a somewhat cheaper feel than pricier alternatives, and some users have reported issues with torn seams and premature pilling along the inside of the thighs in previous versions. Finally, some women might find the mid-rise fit and the featureless waist somewhat frumpy and dated. Overall, it’s hard to be too critical at this price, and the Columbia makes a lot of sense for travelers combining hiking with an extended trip who are also looking for a good value.
See the Columbia All Seasons Bootcut Pants

Best Women’s Travel Leggings

Free Fly All Day Pocket Legging ($94)

Material: 80% nylon, 20% spandex
Waist: Elastic, high rise
Pockets: 3
What we like: Just the right amount of compression with a high, wide waistband.
What we don’t: The brushed finish tends to pill at abrasion points.

Leggings are a nice option for travel: They're comfortable on the plane, and they're versatile around town and on the trail, too. The All Day Pocket Legging from Free Fly is our favorite in this category, thanks to its stretchy material that hugs the body without feeling too restrictive. The material is also soft against the skin. Deep thigh pockets easily hold a phone and our headphones, and the additional back waistband pocket can also fit most modern smartphones. We also love the wide waistband, which forgoes tight, thin elastic in favor of a double-layered 4-inch spandex waistband that provides stretch and security without pinching.

These tights are also odor-resistant and breathe well (for a synthetic pant), making them one of our top choices for long plane rides, in-trip travel days, and lounging at the hotel. There isn't much to dislike here in terms of fit and comfort, though the durability isn't up to par with more technical hiking leggings. The softer material tends to pill along the inner leg, and we've noticed some thread fraying at the seams after a few seasons of wear and washes. But for women looking for a supremely soft, comfortable pair of leggings with just the right amount of compression and a waistband that won't make you want to rip your pants off on the plane, these are our top pick.
See the Free Fly All Day Pocket Legging
 

Best Women's Jeans for Travel

Ripton & Co. Superlite Utility Jeans ($110)

Material: 87% cotton, 10% polyester, 3% spandex 
Waist: Button fly, high-rise
Pockets: 7
What we like: Stretchy, soft jeans that don’t cut into the gut.
What we don’t: Tough to find in person, and some durability concerns.

Ripton & Co. is a Boulder-based cottage denim brand with a modest yet refined collection of jeans. But don’t let that fool you—Ripton loves to serve good (and often silly), comfort-first vibes. Their “performance denim” is exactly what you want: stretchy, great-fitting, and lightweight. For women, our favorite model is the Superlite Utility Jean. The Superlites have a flattering straight-leg style that’s neither too baggy nor too trim, and they are made with just enough spandex and polyester to keep them stretchy and comfortable. Seriously, they’re so easy to move in, we’ve even worn them bouldering. This is good news for traveling, too: The Superlites are comfortable to sit in, and they don’t dig into the stomach like other jeans. A nice assortment of deep pockets (including two on the front, two on the back, and two small leg pockets) rounds out the design well, and the pants are available in a range of colors and washes. 

We know what you’re thinking: travel jeans? But until you get your hands on a pair of Riptons, you’ll just have to take our word for it. Though that’s one of the catches. We’ve had luck finding Riptons in gear shops now and again (especially those that specialize in mountain biking gear)and, of course, on Ripton’s site, but they are tough to find in person at larger retailers. Our other concern is the durability of the jeans. Unlike heavy-duty denim, the Superlite Utility Jeans are thinner, which leaves them more prone to tearing. In testing, ours formed a small hole on the backside after snagging something sharp. But we aren’t worried to the point of it being a deal-breaker (plus, the hole was easily stitched), and thus far ours have held up to weekly wearing and washing, a lot of bike rides, and hours spent in the airport. And as a final plus, we’ve received more compliments on our Riptons than on any other jeans we own, especially at Denver International Airport. 
See the Ripton & Co. Superlite Utility Jeans

Best Versatility for Dressing Up or Down

Free Fly Sullivan's Pants ($88)

Material: 53% hemp, 26% tencel, 19% cotton, 2% spandex
Waist: Elastic w/ drawcord, mid-rise
Pockets: 2
What we like: Breezy, wide-legged design that's comfortable and versatile.
What we don’t: No zippered pockets.

The trend towards wide-legged, flowy pants feels like a great excuse to wear dressed-up designs with a sweatpants feel, and the Free Fly Sullivan's checks all the boxes. These pants are made with a blend of hemp, tencel, and cotton that's very soft against the skin, breathes well in humid climates, but don't feel too cold in air-conditioned airports. The 30-inch inseam is the ideal length, brushing the tops of our shoes without dragging on the ground. We wore these on long travel days on chilly airplanes, as our go-to road-trip pants, and in the cloying heat and humidity of the Caribbean, and they felt fresh and comfortable even after multiple wears in a row. And they pack down small in a suitcase and shake out wrinkle-free. The flowy aesthetic can dress up or down, giving them a lot of versatility, too.

The Sullivan Pants are far from technical, and aren't our first recommendation for hiking. They also only have two side pockets, which, while deep enough for a phone and wallet, lack zippers or secure closures. During testing, we were nervous about keeping a wallet in our pair, and ended up carrying it in a shoulder bag to the hotel instead. Those are two negligible gripes, though, and the Sullivan Pants' fit, material blend, and temperature comfort range have made them a strong contender for beach wear, dinners, travel days, and town wear while traveling.
See the Free Fly Sullivan's Pants
 

Best Hiking-Ready Travel Pants

Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle ($95)

Material: 94% nylon, 6% elastane
Waist: Elastic, midrise
Pockets: 4
What we like: Thin, breathable fabric is great for mid-summer travel.
What we don’t: Tapered design doesn't roll well over calves; somewhat odd fit.

The Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle is our top pick for hot-weather women's hiking pants, thanks to its breathable, lightweight, and packable design, making it an easy choice to throw in your bag when your trip includes plenty of trail miles. The nylon/spandex blend keeps weight low and airflow high while still offering good all-around durability, and the pants wick moisture quickly and dry out after getting wet. We're also fans of the smooth, minimal-feeling waistband, which fits comfortably under a pack’s hipbelt and minimizes chafing and discomfort on sweaty skin for both hiking days and transit days while lugging a travel backpack. The versatility is also prime for light packers, with a relaxed fit, ankle-length crop, and deep hand pockets, resulting in an overall stylish and comfortable pair of pants that perform like hiking pants but don't look too technical. 

We will say the Dynama Ankle is not the most technical pair of hiking pants out there, and they lack a secure pocket that fits a standard smartphone. Further, we found the tapered, ankle-length hem challenging to roll up over thicker calves, and it can leave the bottom of your legs vulnerable to branches and bugs. Finally, the fabric tends to pill, and we found the fit baggy around our hips. We recommend trying before buying, as some people might prefer to size down. But if the Dynama fits you well, it's a versatile travel and hiking option that sits somewhere between leggings and joggers.
See the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle
 

Other Women's Travel Pants We Love
 

The Comfiest Travel Pant

Imbodhi Sora Wide Leg Pants ($95)

Material: 95% beechwood fiber, 5% spandex
Waist: Elastic, high-rise
Pockets: 2
What we like: Incredibly comfortable and nicely draped without looking sloppy.
What we don’t: Not fitted or technical for hiking crossover.

Comfort is high on our priority list when testing travel pants, and there's one pair we keep returning to when we want to stay cozy at the airport. Imbodhi's draped Sora Wide Leg Pants are made with a stretchy yet durable ribbed fabric composed primarily of beechwood fiber, which is very soft against the skin. They're as comfortable as sweatpants, but don't look out of place at a beachside dinner. The ribbed material is breathable and odor-resistant, and the double-rolled waistband sits high and wide without digging into our stomachs. These pants are comfortable to sleep in during a red-eye flight, and shake out wrinkle-free after being packed in a suitcase. 

We don't have many issues with these cozy travel pants, but keep in mind you won't want to hit the trails or attempt anything technical in them. These are very much a comfort-first pair of pants, and while we rarely travel without them, we're also sure to pack hiking tights or another technical option if the trip includes anything off the main road. Otherwise, the Sora gets top marks for sustainable materials, fit and shape, and incredible comfort when smashed into the back of the plane on an overseas flight.
See the Imbodhi Sora Wide Leg Pants
 

Lightweight and Packable Travel Pant

Prana Koen Pant ($98)

Material: 81% nylon, 10% polyester, 9% elastane
Waist: Elastic w/ drawcord, mid-rise
Pockets: 2
What we like: Very comfortable, lightweight, and breathable.
What we don’t: Thin, stretchy fabric isn't super durable; only two pockets.

If you're traveling in warmer climates or have limited space in your bag (or both), the Prana Koen Pant is a solid option. Sporting a soft, wide waistband with an internal drawstring for dialing in fit, these pants come in short, regular, and tall lengths in a handful of attractive earth tones. The lightweight fabric is notably breathable, and the overall look walks the line between outdoorsy and put-together. If you're someone who likes to have one pair of pants for everything from morning yoga to an afternoon hike to the dinner table, the Koen is a versatile option. The fabric is very thin, and the seams have some minor shirring, so while sleek, the Koen isn't nearly as professional-looking as some of the other options here. But overall, we find it to be an easy-wearing and functional pair of pants.

The thin fabric of the Koen Pant is stretchy, and some users report the pants becoming baggy. That said, the drawstring helps mitigate this, and we appreciate a soft waist when traveling and sitting for long periods. The thinner material, while breathable and fantastic for hotter weather (especially with its UPF 50+ rating), isn't as durable as some of the other options here. In other words, you'll want to be mindful of jumpy dogs or hiking through brushy areas, and consider that if you run cold, these could be too thin for comfort. Lastly, the Koen only has two front pockets, and we often find ourselves missing rear pockets when on the move, though they are deep, zippered, and very useful. 
See the Prana Koen Pant
 

Our Favorite Jogger for Traveling

Vuori Miles Jogger ($118)

Material: 79% recycled polyamide, 21% elastane
Waist: Elastic w/ drawcord, mid-rise
Pockets: 3
What we like: Buttery-soft feel and solid resistance to wind, pilling, and wrinkles.
What we don’t: Expensive and no secure phone storage.

Vuori is a relative newcomer to the outdoor space, but they’ve risen to popularity quickly. Their recipe for success: highly comfortable and good-looking clothing that can still hold its own outdoors. Their Miles Jogger is a case in point, combining a buttery-soft feel with impressive wind- and abrasion-resistance. The polyamide/elastane mix nicely balances stretch and long-term durability (we haven’t experienced any pilling to date) and remains wrinkle-free even after multiple days of use, including being haphazardly stuffed into our travel backpack during an overnight flight. The waist design is also supportive but low-profile enough for wearing under the hipbelt of a backpack. Finally, the pants wick moisture well and dry quickly when wet, which are crucial characteristics for frequent travelers.

We’ve found Vuori’s quality to be top-notch, but their clothing doesn’t come cheap. The Miles Jogger is around $20-$30 pricier than most competitors. And beyond the price, we have a few nitpicks with the design: The zippered rear pocket is too small to accommodate a smartphone (only the non-zippered hand pockets work), and some women may find the Miles to be too baggy in the upper legs and calves. We personally liked the fit in our usual size, although the cuffs were snug for our taste. But so long as it fits, the Miles Jogger is a comfortable and hard-wearing option for all kinds of travel. Note: At the time of publication, the Miles Jogger is low on stock, but we expect availability to improve soon.
See the Vuori Miles Jogger
 

Great Pocket Layout

Kuhl Freeflex Dash ($99)

Material: 100% polyester
Waist: Elastic w/ drawcord, mid-rise
Pockets: 6
What we like: A competitive all-rounder that nicely balances performance and style; great storage options.
What we don’t: Fit runs baggy and long; not the best option for dressing up.

Utah-based Kuhl is known for their utilitarian styling, but the Freeflex Dash offers a competitive mix of performance and everyday-friendly styling, which is an enticing recipe for many travelers. Right away, we found the pants to be highly comfortable, with a lightweight, soft next-to-skin feel, and had no issues with bunching or rubbing from the seams during a long journey to Argentina with several connections. The pants also dry quickly, retain their shape well over time, and have just enough stretch to allow unrestricted mobility. The Freeflex also has a nice assortment of pockets, including several zippered pockets, which are great for storing valuables. The pocket on the side of the leg easily fits a smartphone or a passport. Tack on a wide, drawcord-equipped elastic waistband and cinchable/rollable cuffs, and you get a competitive all-rounder that can seamlessly transition between travel, hiking, and around-town use.

We have a few concerns with this pant, specifically in its fit. Our tester found the fit spot-on in her usual size (for reference, our tester is 5’8”, and the size small length worked fine for her), but some women have reported an overly baggy or long fit. The styling doesn’t dress up very well either, and they look more like hiking pants than work attire. But if your priorities are comfort and storage over straight-to-office styling, the Freeflex is worth checking out. 
See the Kuhl Freeflex Dash
 

Durable Yet Comfortable

Topo Designs Dirt Pants ($109)

Material: 98% cotton, 2% spandex
Waist: Elastic/drawcord, high-rise
Pockets: 5
What we like: Soft, cotton material that's very durable and comfortable.
What we don’t: Less packable than our top picks; too thick for warm climates.

With a chic-but-rugged look and a durable build, the Topo Designs Dirt Pants impressed us during testing over this past year with their soft cotton material and relaxed fit (though they are also available in a slim fit if that better fits your aesthetic). With a drawcord at both the waist and the ankles, there are plenty of adjustment points for dialing in comfort during all kinds of activities. What struck us most about these pants is that, despite feeling thicker and more durable than many other options on this list, the Dirt Pant feels soft and broken-in right from the get-go. Our main tester gets a compliment on these practically every time she wears them, and they've held up excellently over a year of testing. 

This pant is too thick and warm for hot or humid climates, and the soft fabric (while comfortable) tends to hold spills and stains more than a smoother, shinier fabric. Though if you don't like shiny, slippery materials, this might be a fair trade-off. And since we tend to put a premium on packability, a heavier and less packable material likely won't be your first choice when space is scarce in your carry-on. These aren't stretchy pants either, so finding the right fit can be more challenging to dial in (similar to jeans). That said, the fabric doesn't stretch with multiple wears, so we've enjoyed owning two sizes: a smaller one for a sleeker look and a larger one for additional comfort and ease of movement.
See the Topo Designs Dirt Pants
 

How Many Days Can I Wear Travel Pants Before They Need to Be Washed?

Odor resistance mostly depends on fabric materials. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon retain odors more than natural fibers. In fact, many natural fibers are antibacterial, such as bamboo, hemp, and merino wool. A breathable fabric, like cotton and linen, is also less likely to hold onto odor, though they aren’t naturally antimicrobial. Choosing a flowy, breathable pair of pants helps airflow and fabrics dry, preventing stink in the long term. In general, synthetic pants can last a day or two before smelling too ripe, but natural fibers can last a week or longer. 
 

Tested & Dismissed Women's Travel Pants

We have high standards for comfort, durability, and price when narrowing down our favorite travel pants, and not every pant we test makes the cut. We understand you might be curious about which pants we've tested and dismissed, along with the reasoning behind each decision.

In this update, we replaced the Athleta Retreat Linen High Rise with the Free Fly Sullivan's Pant as our favorite pant that can be dressed up or down. Not only is the Free Fly less expensive, but the fabric isn't as heavy and clingy, and is more packable than the Retreat's Linen.

We also removed the Athleta Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pant because our testers had mixed reviews on the fit. Some found them to be too large, while others had issues with the waistband fitting uncomfortably. They also aren't the most versatile, especially for outdoor use.

Seed's The Antidote didn't make the cut, either, mostly because it now costs over $200. They are a durable and well-made pair of pants, but the long break-in period isn't the most travel-friendly.

There are a number of pants we tested that didn't make the list because they didn't stand out or outperform any of the other pants on this list, including the Outdoor Voices RecTrek 26" Pant, The North Face's Aphrodite 2.0, and Janji's Transit Trek.
 

Women’s Travel Pant Comparison Table

About Our Testing Process

As you might imagine, the crew at Switchback Travel knows a thing or three about getting from point A to point B. Traveling often sounds like more fun than it actually is, and having functional, comfortable clothes while hopping flights, crossing time zones, and dealing with weather is more important than it may initially seem. It's not a great feeling to be frustrated or irritated by something as basic as your pants when trying to sleep in a cramped airplane seat or find your travel documents in a crowded customs line. Knowing this, the lineup of 11 pants above wasn't landed on lightly—each pair was carefully considered and vetted across state and/or international lines. Whether you prefer a do-it-all adventure pant or a cozier, lounge-focused option, we've got a bit of everything to consider for your next big adventure. 

This guide was started by former managing editor Sarah Nelson in 2023, with editor-in-chief Penney Garrett taking over in 2024 and contributing editor Maggie Slepian managing the top picks as of 2025. Maggie and Penney bring loads of experience to the table, both lifelong travelers and adventurers in various realms, with a range of testing experience and different body types. From airports and redeye flights to massive cities and remote slot canyons, they know what goes into a good piece of travel clothing. For each option in this round-up, we've considered materials, cut, pocket layout, sun protection, and more. It's important to consider all aspects of what you plan to do while traveling, because the best options will be versatile enough to crossover into different activities, leaving more weight and space in your bag for essential gear and souvenirs. Read on to learn what goes into a great pair of travel pants and which features we feel are most important to consider for a purchase you can feel confident about. 
 

How To Choose Women's Travel Pants

• What Makes a Good Travel Pant?
• Consider Your Type of Travel
• Travel Pant Materials
• Travel Pant Styles
• Waist Designs
• Storage: Pockets
• Travel Pant Weight
• Water Resistance
• Thickness and Durability
• Sizing and Fit
• UPF Ratings
• Sustainability

What Makes a Good Travel Pant?

Unlike hiking pants, travel pants are an ambiguous category, though certain characteristics make them well-suited for travel. These include smooth, stretchy fabrics that resist wrinkles and breathe well, good moisture-wicking, and the ability to dry quickly if they get wet. We also look for practical storage in the form of zippered pockets for securely stashing valuables while on the move, and low-profile waistbands that don’t dig in when you’re sitting for long periods or get in the way under the hipbelt of a travel pack. Another crucial consideration for many travelers is versatility: We love when travel pants can cross over for around-town use, hiking, or dress-up for work. Finally, quality travel pants stand up well to long-term use with snag- and abrasion-resistant fabrics that don’t pill over time.
 

Consider Your Type of Travel

The destination, climate, duration, and intended activities will directly impact the travel pants you pack, not to mention how much space you're taking up on the plane. For trips where you're making do with a carry-on and personal item, prioritizing packable, versatile, odor-resistant pants like the Free Fly All Day Pocket Legging isn't a bad idea. If you're planning on lots of trails and outdoor exploration, you'll want hiking-oriented styles like the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle. And if you're hitting cities and aiming to mix and match for a range of outfits, consider a more town-ready style like the Ripton & Co Superlite Utility Jeans or the Free Fly Sullivan's Pant.
 

Travel Pant Materials

Many (but not all) travel-focused pants are made of a polyester or nylon blend, and most of the picks above have at least a small amount of built-in stretch via elastane or spandex. Nylon is more durable and softer than polyester, while polyester is less absorbent and dries more quickly, though the differences are minor. Some brands are also focusing on more natural fabrics, such as cotton or hemp, like the Free Fly Sullivan's Pants, though these materials aren't as water-resistant or quick to dry. As far as stretch goes, a higher elastane content results in more flexible pants, which can be nice for leggings or for anyone who wears their pants tighter. The added stretch is also a boon on long travel days, overnight flights, and mileage-heavy outings when comfort is top priority. 
 

Travel Pant Styles

Travel pants come in many styles: joggers with elastic at the ankles to keep the cuffs out of the way, leggings that offer the ultimate in mobility, ankle pants (also known as cropped pants) that ride lower than capris, and traditional straight- or wide-leg designs. Joggers are often our preferred option due to their loose yet tailored fit, which is highly comfortable and free-flowing without feeling messy. Tights/leggings are the most form-fitting option and cross over best for activities like running or yoga, but often have minimal storage—though our top-ranked Free Fly All Day Pocket Legging does have generous drop-in thigh pockets. Cropped pants ride right above the ankle and often have flared cuffs for a relaxed-but-refined look, and pair well with a wide range of footwear. Finally, straight-leg designs like the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Transit or Kuhl Freeflex are similarly versatile, but cover more of the ankle than cropped pants.
 

Waist Designs

Waist design can have a sizable impact on overall comfort. Nobody wants a rigid waistband and metal hardware digging into their stomach on long flights. For this reason, we strongly prefer travel pants with wide elastic waistbands and few or no seams. In addition to leading the pack in all-day comfort, elastic waistbands also don’t get in the way under a hipbelt, which is an important feature whether you’re hauling a travel pack through the airport or wearing a daypack on a short hike or around-town adventure. We also appreciate when pants come with a drawcord for dialing in fit at the waist while keeping bulk to an absolute minimum. But keep in mind that not all drawcords are created equal: We typically prefer a low-profile internal drawcord like what you get with the Prana Koen for a cleaner look and to avoid interference with the hipbelt on a backpack.
 

At the other end of the spectrum are more traditional designs with a button or snap and a zipper-equipped fly. In general, these are far less comfortable than elastic waistbands for all-day wear (the Ripton Superlite Utility Jean is the only one on our list to use this design). It’s true that belt loops can be nice for dressing up your pants, but added hardware is a real downside on long travel days and when paired with a hipbelt.
 

Storage: Pockets

Storage can make or break a travel pant, so we prioritized designs with practical layouts for stashing essentials. One standout from our list above is the Kuhl Freeflex Dash, which has a whopping 6 pockets. At the other end of the spectrum is Vuori’s Miles Jogger, which features just one rear zippered pocket that’s too small to accommodate a smartphone (only the non-zippered hand pockets work). Other options, like the Imbodhi Sora Wide Leg Pants, only have two non-zippered hand pockets. In the end, the decision will come down to personal preference and where you prefer to store your valuables. Some folks (ourselves included) like to use a fanny pack or crossbody purse, but we appreciate it when pants have a phone- or document-friendly pocket for easy access while navigating security checkpoints or walking around town. 
 

Travel Pant Weight and Packability

Travel pants are lightweight apparel due to their breathable and airy fabrics, and the weight spread among our picks is small (9 to 11 oz. is standard). For reference, the lightest option on our list above (of those that provide a weight spec or that we've been able to weigh) is the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle at a scant 7.1 ounces, while the heaviest is the heftier Ripton & Co. Superlite Utility Jeans at 1 pound 3.4 ounces. It’s worth noting that many travelers won’t pay too much mind to the weight of their pants, but it can be a good indicator of bulk, which is often the bigger consideration if you're trying to pack light. Lighter pants generally take up less space in a travel pack or duffel bag, but shaving weight often comes with compromises in durability, which we cover in more detail below.
 

Water Resistance

Water resistance almost always comes at the cost of breathability, so it's no surprise that travel pants wouldn’t be our first choice for extended rainfall. That said, most designs can handle light to moderate moisture just fine, which is all most travelers realistically need. Durable water repellent (DWR) coatings are the most common measure, prompting water droplets to bead up and roll off the exterior rather than soak through (bonus: Many are now PFAS-free, which means they’re made without the use of harmful perfluorocarbons). Most travel pants also use thin, lightweight fabrics that don’t absorb moisture and dry quickly when wet, which is very helpful if you need to hand-wash your pants due to an unexpected spill or stain. That said, it's all about personal preference, which is why we also provide some cotton and hemp options above. Just keep in mind that these materials are not fast-drying, so you may want to reserve them for certain types of trips and climates. 
 

Thickness and Durability

Thinner fabrics breathe better and dry out more quickly than thicker varieties, so it makes sense that many travel pants are thin. While most manufacturers don’t list the denier (a measure of fabric thickness) for their travel designs, a good rule of thumb is that stretchier fabrics tend to hold up better because they “give” under pressure rather than tear. For example, the Vuori Miles Jogger with its 21% elastane is stretchy and highly resistant to snags and abrasion. Another consideration for many travelers is how likely a fabric is to pill over time. From our list, the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle is prone to pulling due to the thin fabrics (this isn't a coincidence). If you’re concerned about long-term durability, consider a thicker design (at the expense of some breathability).
 

Sizing and Fit

Most women know the plight of finding pants that both fit well and look good, but the good news is that the travel pant market is rife with modern, flattering designs. Outdoor clothing brands like Patagonia and Vuori have the fit concept down well, and Columbia has recently redesigned a number of their offerings to bring them in line with the competition. To help you get the best fit, many brands offer a generous number of waist sizes. Some pants are also available in multiple inseam lengths. We worked to call out sizing and fit discrepancies in the listings above, but it’s always best to try on before you buy or ensure there's a good return/exchange policy. 
 

UPF Ratings

Many travel pants have a UPF rating, which indicates how much UV radiation the fabric allows to pass through. For reference, a UPF rating of 50 means that just 1/50th (or 2%) of the available UV rays are able to make their way to the other side of the fabric, while a UPF rating of 30 denotes that 1/30th of rays will pass through (of note: UPF 30 is the minimum rating that qualifies for the Skin Cancer Foundation’s official recommendation). For travel pants, a UPF rating of 40 to 50 is standard, though we have yet to meet anyone who’s been burned through their pants—even those without UPF protection. That said, we understand wanting to maximize sun protection, in which case you should aim for the higher numbers and remember to consider your upper half, too (we’ve compiled a list of our favorite sun protection shirts here). 
 

Sustainability

One of the primary ways we see manufacturers innovating is by using more sustainable materials. For travel pants, this often means recycled fabrics, more responsible production practices (including the elimination of harmful chemicals used in water-repellent and UV-resistant treatments), and an emphasis on the ethical treatment of workers (look for a “Fair Trade” certification). Many companies also use the Bluesign system to source materials responsibly. Patagonia is a clear leader in the sustainability movement, but brands like Vuori and Outdoor Research have also made significant efforts to reduce their footprints. Smaller cottage brands such as Ripton & Co. are also excellent companies to support if this is important to you.
 

Women's Travel Pants FAQ

Can I just wear my favorite pair of pants I already own?

Dedicated travel pants can go a long way toward maximizing comfort on long plane rides and layovers. That said, infrequent travelers may have a hard time justifying the niche purchase, and the good news is that you probably already own a pair of pants that’s suitable for travel. Many hiking pants can pull double duty, provided they’re lightweight and breathable. Some people might prefer standard leggings or hiking-optimized leggings as viable alternatives. But as long as the pants are comfortable to sit in for extended periods, anything can work as a travel pant.
 

What features should I look for to keep my passport and phone safe?

If you're planning on storing your phone or passport in your travel pants, a secure pocket is essential. We don't recommend storing either in non-zippered hand or back pockets. A zippered thigh pocket is ideal, though we also feel safe using deep non-zippered thigh pockets that hide belongings well. Interior pockets in waistbands are also a great option.
 

How do I know if a pair of pants will fit my body type?

When purchasing online, it's tough to know how a pair of pants will fit. Many brands and models offer several inseam lengths to help dial in length, and some also offer petite or plus-sized options. In general, outdoor-specific brands like Outdoor Research and Patagonia fit trim. Luckily, most online shops offer sizing guides that can help you narrow down the right size. If you're still unsure, purchasing multiple sizes with the intent to return the ones that don't fit can be a good solution, but you'll want to double-check the return policy before doing so.
 

How do I wash a pair of pants while traveling?

If you're not staying somewhere with access to a clothes washer, it's not impossible to wash a pair of pants in the sink or bathtub. Packing travel detergent or detergent sheets can come in handy in this situation, but we've made do with the complimentary soap in hotel rooms in emergencies. Fill the sink or bathtub with water, add your soap, then the pants. Give the pants a good scrub with your hands, concentrating on stinky areas or stains. After rinsing the pants, we recommend rolling them up inside a towel to wring out the water, rather than twisting them in your hands, which can damage or stretch the fibers. Hang them over a door, shower rod, or coat hanger to air dry.