Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2024

Traveling can be an involved and exhausting undertaking, but staying comfortable on long plane rides and packed buses can help make the experience a little more bearable. Travel pants can be a key part of this equation. Many of today’s leading designs are stretchy, breathable, quick to dry, 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. From modern joggers to storage-equipped leggings and sleek ankle-length designs, we break down our favorite women’s travel pants of 2024. For more background information, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks.

Editor's note: We updated this article on July 9, 2024, to remove some discontinued products and add new offerings from Alder, Prana, Patagonia, and Seed. We also added more information regarding our testing process below the picks.
 

Our Team’s Women’s Travel Pant Picks

• Best Overall Women’s Travel Pant: Athleta Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pant
• Best Budget Women’s Travel Pant: Columbia Anytime Outdoor Boot Cut Pants
• Best Women’s Travel Leggings: Athleta Headlands Hybrid Mid Rise Tight
• Best Hiking-Ready Travel Pant: Patagonia Happy Hike Studio Pants
• Best Versatility for Dressing Up or Down: Alder Open Air Pant

Best Overall Women’s Travel Pant

1. Athleta Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pant ($99)

Materials: 86% recycled polyester, 14% elastane
Waist: Elastic, mid-rise
Pockets: 4
What we like: Chic, classy design that’s easy to dress up or down; excellent comfort and storage. 
What we don’t: Fit intricacies; not the most versatile option here.

Travel pants are a fairly ambiguous category—you can realistically wear almost anything for travel, but good comfort and organization can make a world of difference on long flights and adventures abroad. Athleta’s Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pant checks both of those boxes emphatically. Starting with comfort, the aptly named Featherweight Stretch fabric is silky-smooth against the skin, breathes well, dries out quickly, and nicely fends off wrinkles and abrasion. Further, the rib-knit waistband and side panels offer a good mix of mobility and security, and the small slits in each cuff add a subtle dose of flair and contribute to the sophisticated slant. Whether you’re headed to a work conference or exploring a foreign city by foot, the Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pant is a chic and polished design that’s easy to dress up or down depending on the setting.

Athleta describes the Brooklyn as “semi-fitted,” but many women specify that the legs are on the wider end. Those who prefer a more form-fitting shape will likely want to size down to avoid a clown pant-like look, although the snug waistband may pose an issue with more athletic builds. The good news is that Athleta offers the pants in 15 sizes (00 to 26) in the regular version, along with 9+ sizes in both dedicated tall and petite versions to accommodate a wide range of body types. We also appreciate the practical storage layout, which includes two deep hand pockets that are big enough to fit a phone horizontally and two zippered pockets at the back. The Brooklyn doesn’t cross over particularly well for regular outdoor use—for that, we turn to the designs from Patagonia and Outdoor Research below—but it will certainly get the job done on a short hike or active sightseeing excursion. It’s also available in a similarly classy and well-built High-Rise Jogger version for the same price.
See the Athleta Brooklyn Ankle Pant

Best Budget Women’s Travel Pant

2. Columbia Anytime Outdoor Boot Cut Pants ($60)

Materials: 96% nylon, 4% elastane
Waist: Snap/fly w/ drawcord, mid-rise
Pockets: 3
What we like: A well-rounded travel pant for considerably less than most of the competition.
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 outdoor gear at great prices, and their Anytime Outdoor Boot Cut Pants are another excellent value for travelers. We’ll start with the positives: The mostly nylon build with a touch of spandex is both lightweight and breathable, the pants are highly resistant to moisture and quick to dry, and the styling is decently sleek and versatile—great for exploring around town and heading out to a nice dinner afterward. Perhaps most importantly, the $60 Columbia costs around half as much as many competitors while still managing to cross over well for outdoor use. 

All that said, cutting costs often comes with a drop in quality, and the Columbia Anytime Pants aren’t immune. While lightweight, the fabric has a noticeably cheaper feel than what you get with pricier alternatives like the Athleta Brooklyn above and many others below, and some users have reported issues with torn seams and premature pilling along the inside of the thighs. The “boot cut” designation is also a little misleading: The Anytime’s cuffs are more reminiscent of bell bottoms, with a slightly flared shape that covers the top of your shoes. Finally, we don’t love the waistband design and storage layout: The former lacks stretch and includes superfluous additions like a snap and zipper (in addition to the external drawstring), and the only secure pocket is at the back, which uses Velcro rather than a more reliable zippered closure. But it’s hard to be overly critical at this price point, and the Columbia makes a lot of sense for occasional travelers and value seekers alike.
See the Columbia Anytime Outdoor Pants

Best Women’s Travel Leggings

3. Athleta Headlands Hybrid Mid Rise Tight ($119)

Materials: 91% recycled nylon, 9% spandex
Waist: Elastic w/ drawcord, high-rise
Pockets: 6
What we like: Tons of storage with an internal drawcord for dialing in fit.
What we don’t: Pricey and a little overbuilt for a legging; not the most abrasion-resistant fabric.

We can’t overstate the value of a good pair of leggings, but most designs are lacking in storage, which is a clear downside for travel. Enter Athleta’s Headlands Hybrid Mid Rise Tight, which bucks that trend with a whopping six pockets—all of which have zippers—for securely stashing the essentials (phone, travel documents, etc.) while on the move. Another noteworthy addition is the drawcord inside the elastic waistband that allows for fit customization (most leggings use just elastic, which can fall down throughout the day). The waistband itself is still low-profile but supportive with a high-waisted fit (despite the "mid rise" in the name), and the nylon/spandex blend is both highly comfortable and mobile for all-day wear. All told, we love the streamlined look and feel of leggings while traveling, and the Headlands Hybrid solves our two biggest gripes: lack of storage and inability to dial in fit.

At $119, the Athleta Headlands Hybrid is on the pricey end of the travel pant market. It does cross over well for hiking, which helps justify the cost, but the fabric isn’t as snag- or abrasion-resistant as we’d like for off-trail ventures like bushwhacking or scrambling. Like all storage-equipped tights, the Headlands can also look and feel a little ungainly with the pockets stuffed full—it’s best to stick to thin and lightweight items. For budget-conscious folks who aren’t ready to make such a sizable investment, there are certainly tons of options as far as leggings go, though most do not come equipped with such extensive zippered storage. In the end, while the Headlands don't come cheap, they're one of the most feature-rich and travel-ready leggings on the market. If you want something a little looser and less form-fitting, Athleta’s Trekkie North Jogger uses a similar material mix (95% nylon and 5% spandex) and comes with three zippered pockets.
See the Athleta Headlands Hybrid Tight

Best Hiking-Ready Travel Pant

4. Patagonia Happy Hike Studio Pants ($99)

Materials: 89% recycled polyester, 11% recycled spandex
Waist: Elastic, mid-rise
Pockets: 5
What we like: Smooth feel, great freedom of movement, and quick to dry.
What we don’t: No drawcord for dialing in fit; sizing runs on the bigger side.

Patagonia’s Happy Hike Studio Pants might be built for hiking, but we consider them an equally great travel companion. The polyester fabric has a remarkably smooth and silky feel with a just-right amount of stretch for navigating through big airports and exploring around town once you arrive at your destination. One editor even wore them running in southern Patagonia recently after forgetting her tights back home and came away highly impressed by their mobility and breathability. Importantly, the pants held their shape well throughout a full week of use with no billowing, and they dried extremely quickly when we had to hand-wash them due to an accidental spill. A final highlight: The Happy Hike Studio Pant—like most of Patagonia’s offerings—is made with a clear eye toward sustainability, including recycled and bluesign-approved fabrics and certification to the Fair Trade standard. 

No travel pant is perfect, however, and the Patagonia Happy Hike Studio Pants are no exception. One gripe is that the zippered stash pocket at the right thigh can look and feel a little bulky when stuffed full, which isn’t hard to do given its small size. On the bright side, you do get an additional zippered pocket at the rear, but it’s not an ideal spot for stashing a smartphone (the only practical place is one of the hand pockets, which don’t have zippers). We also wish Patagonia had included a drawcord for dialing in fit at the waist, and sizing runs on the bigger end (we went with our usual size, and it was a little baggier than we’d prefer). But if you can nail the fit, the Happy Hike Studio Pant puts it all together better than most, including ample all-day comfort, top-notch mobility, and enough versatility to pull double duty for activities like hiking, gym climbing, or yoga. 
See the Patagonia Happy Hike Studio Pants

Best Versatility for Dressing Up or Down

5. Alder Open Air Pant ($155)

Materials: 94% modal, 6% spandex
Waist: Elastic, high-rise
Pockets: 7
What we like: Classy looks and flattering on many shapes and sizes.
What we don’t: Expensive, thick waistband, and heavier than many competitors.

Alder is a lesser-known name to many, though they've quickly received deserved recognition—especially for curvier and more full-figured women. This Canadian company is woman-owned and committed to sustainability and fair, safe working conditions. As soon as we became aware of the Open Air Pant, we knew we'd found something special. A wide and high waistband meets a whopping seven pockets (you read that right), a handy D-ring for securing your keys, two inseam lengths, and ten sizes from XS to 6X. Four of the seven pockets have unobtrusive zippers (the two back pockets, a side pocket on the upper thigh, and two small pockets inside the front hand pockets), and the cut of the Open Air is truly flattering for many shapes and sizes. 

If you love the idea of comfortable yet tailored pants that can easily go from the plane to a hiking trail to dinner, the Open Air is not to be missed. In our experience, Alder's sizing chart is accurate, though the pant runs just a smidge on the small side—if you're in between sizes, err on the larger end. These pants are also quite pricey at $155 (though quite a few colors are on sale at the time of publishing) and not as lightweight as many of the other options on our list. But if you're not counting ounces and want a truly versatile option for your next getaway that looks just as impressive with dress shoes as it does with hikers, the Open Air is all-around worth it. If you'd prefer a more casual and less tailored option, Alder's Go Explore Essential Pant is a nice alternative for $60 less.
See the Alder Open Air Pants

Best of the Rest

6. Outdoor Research Ferrosi Transit ($89)

Materials: 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: Slightly less refined fit than the Patagonia Happy Hike Studio above.

Outdoor Research’s Ferrosi has been one of our go-to hiking pants for years, and the Transit variation is a slightly 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 noticeably stretchy and flexible feel. In testing, the Ferrosi Transit was quick to dry, held its shape even after multiple days of use, and offered a nice balance between protection and breathability (it can cut the wind but still allows 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.

Patagonia’s Happy Hike Studio Pants above are our favorite crossover outdoor/travel option, although we prefer the Ferrosi Transit’s straight-leg design for pairing with hiking shoes or boots. You can also dress the Transit up with a pair of nice sandals or flats, although we wish the logo on the left leg were a little more subtle for dressy occasions. We also had a couple of quibbles with the fit: There’s a little more bagginess than we’d prefer around the lower stomach (although the waistband is snug without being restrictive), while the thighs are on the snugger end. This gives the Ferrosi Transit a slightly less refined feel than the Happy Hike Studio and causes the hand pockets to flare out a bit, although it’s relatively subtle and doesn’t detract from overall comfort.
See the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Transit

7. Prana Koen Pant ($95)

Materials: 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 to consider. 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 the Alder Open Air above. But overall, we find it to be an easy-wearing and functional pant.

The thin fabric of the Koen Pant is stretchy, and some users complain of the pants getting a bit baggy. That said, having a drawstring helps mitigate this, and we appreciate a soft waist when traveling (read: sitting a lot). The thinner material, while very breathable and fantastic for hotter weather (especially since it's got a 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'll be on planes and in airports and 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. If you like Prana clothing but would prefer something flowier, their Railay Wide Leg Pant is another warm-weather favorite of ours, though the cropped length makes it more suitable for the beach or pool than airport navigation and hiking. 
See the Prana Koen Pant

8. Vuori Miles Jogger ($118)

Materials: 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 remarkably 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 resistance to wind and abrasion. The polyamide/elastane mix nicely balances stretch and long-term durability—we haven’t experienced any pilling to date—and remained 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 comfortably 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 build quality to be top-notch, but their clothing doesn’t come cheap. At $118, the Miles Jogger is around $20-$30 pricier than most competitors, including our favorites from Athleta, Patagonia, and Outdoor Research above. The zippered rear pocket is also too small to accommodate a smartphone (only the non-zippered hand pockets work), and some women may find the Miles to be a little too baggy in the upper legs and calves. We personally liked the fit in our usual size, although the cuffs were a bit snug for our taste. If the latter is a dealbreaker for you, Vuori does offer the Miles in an Ankle Pant version for $10 less, although the shorter cut sacrifices some coverage. For an even softer option, check out their Performance Jogger, which has a plush, sweatpant-like feel but is less versatile for travel.
See the Vuori Miles Jogger

9. Patagonia Regenerative Organic Cotton Essential Pants ($89)

Materials: 100% organic cotton French terry
Waist: Elastic, mid/high-rise
Pockets: 2
What we like: Super cozy sweatpants that still look sharp; made with organic material.
What we don’t: On the heavier and bulkier end, no zippered storage, and not the most outdoor-ready design.

If your approach to travel attire is to be as cozy as possible, the Patagonia Organic Cotton Essential Pants are not to be missed. Following the trend of "dressy sweatpants," the Essential manages to offer an incredible balance between comfort and style. The crop and fabric weight allow these pants to be appropriate for warmer weather, and we love knowing we're swaddled in 100% organic cotton from farms focused on regenerative and sustainable practices. Another benefit of having a layer like this in your travel backpack—especially if you're heading somewhere with variable temperatures—is that they can easily be layered over a baselayer or pair of leggings on chilly evenings or post-workout. 

The biggest drawback to the Patagonia Essential Pants is the lack of versatility. The two front hand pockets don't have zippers, and the wide, cropped legs won't be suitable for all activities (e.g., demanding hikes or biking around town). The material is also heavier than most others in our lineup, so these won't pack down as small as other options if space and weight are a concern. That said, it's always nice to have one truly cozy option in a travel kit, even if it takes up more room, and these are a great contender if you feel the same. If you'd rather have a tapered cut and a more technical fabric, a couple other Patagonia favorites of ours are the Terrebonne Joggers ($99) and Quandary Joggers ($119).
See the Patagonia Organic Cotton Essential Pants

10. 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.
What we don’t: Fit runs a little 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 and soft next-to-skin feel and had no issues with bunching or rubbing from seams during a long journey to Argentina with several connections. The pants also dry out extremely quickly, retain their shape very well over time, and have just enough stretch to allow for unrestricted mobility—they’ve since become our tester’s go-to gardening pants, which speaks volumes about their freedom of movement. Tack on a wide and drawcord-equipped elastic waistband, six total pockets (four of which are zippered), and cinchable/rollable cuffs, and the result is a competitive all-rounder that can seamlessly transition between travel, hiking, and around-town use.

Why do we have the Kuhl Freeflex Dash ranked here? While we found the fit to be spot-on in our usual size, some women may find the pants to be overly baggy and long (for reference, our tester is a little taller than average at 5’8”, and the length of the small worked fine for her). They’re also a bit more traditional in terms of styling and colorways than many alternatives here and not the best option for dressing up—they look more like hiking pants than work attire. If the latter is your intended use, we’d instead point you to a design like Athleta’s Brooklyn or Alder's Open Air above. But for mixed travel and outdoor adventures, there’s certainly a whole lot to like about the Kuhl Freeflex Dash. We also like their jogger-style Haven, which costs $10 more but has a slightly more modern look and feel.
See the Kuhl Freeflex Dash

11. Outdoor Voices RecTrek 26” Pant ($98)

Materials: 90% nylon, 10% elastane
Waist: Elastic w/ drawcord, mid-rise
Pockets: 3
What we like: A well-rounded and versatile travel pant with great sizing options.
What we don’t: Fabric loses some of its integrity over time.

Outdoor Voices is a brand on the rise, and their RecTrek collection covers the full gamut of pant and short styles, from joggers and cargo pants to zip-off designs. The flagship model here is their bestselling pant and stacks up competitively to other travel- and outdoor-friendly designs like the Patagonia Happy Hike Studio and Outdoor Research Ferrosi Transit above. Like the OR, the RecTrek employs a nylon/elastane mix that nicely balances durability and stretch and gives the pants a very comfortable and flexible feel—enough so that we spot them at the crag and climbing gym fairly frequently. We also love the RecTrek’s zippered hand pockets, which make it supremely easy to quickly stash travel documents or a smartphone while on the move. A final feather in the Outdoor Voices’ cap is the generous sizing selection (XXS to XXXL), plus availability in two inseam lengths (26 and 29 in.).

The Outdoor Voices RecTrek Pant is undeniably well rounded, especially if your travels frequently involve outdoor activities like hiking or climbing, but it's not without fault. For starters, the shirred waistband lacks the barely-there comfort that you get with smooth designs like the Happy Hike Studio and Athleta Brooklyn above (although you do get a drawstring, which both alternatives lack). The RecTrek’s fabric is also prone to pilling and losing its shape over time, particularly at the calves and ankles. Following Outdoor Voices’ care instructions (machine wash cold and tumble dry on low) should help maximize the pants’ lifespan, and the design has a good track record overall, but it’s a notable enough concern for us to rank the RecTrek mid-pack. 
See the Outdoor Voices RecTrek 26" Pant

12. The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 ($80)

Materials: 94% recycled nylon, 6% elastane
Waist: Elastic w/ drawcord, mid-rise
Pockets: 3
What we like: Great styling, relatively affordable, and rib-knit waistband nicely balances comfort and security.
What we don’t: They don’t hold up well to frequent wear.

Quality travel pants are a dime a dozen, and it’s hard to stand out in such a competitive market. The North Face’s Aphrodite 2.0 stakes its claim with a hard-to-beat mix of comfort, style, and price. For notably less than most competitors, the Aphrodite 2.0 is good-looking with a classic but flattering straight-leg design and chic, shirred detailing along the legs. We also like the plush, rib-knit waistband, which feels great underneath a hipbelt (although the external drawstring can get in the way at times) and offers a nice balance between comfort and security. Finally, drawcords at each ankle give you the option of wearing the pant with a slight flare, cinched above your feet, or pulled up around your calves capri-style (bonus: TNF offers plus sizes, too).

Our biggest gripe with the TNF Aphrodite 2.0 is the lack of durability: Our pair shows a lot of pilling after about a year of use, and the shirring on the legs has gotten noticeably tighter with regular laundering. The ankle cinch also has a bit of a cheap feel—it’s just a piece of thin elastic that you pull out and tie on a bight—and the heat transfer logo on the back of our pair has worn off completely. Durability aside, we also wish The North Face had included more than one zippered pocket for easier access to valuables and documents while traveling. But it's tricky to find this level of comfort and breathability for the price, and the modern styling is the cherry on top. The Aphrodite is very similar to the Prana Koen above, just not quite as refined. If you can spend up a little bit, the Koen is the nicer of the two.
See the The North Face Aphrodite 2.0

13. Fjallraven High Coast Lite Trousers ($125)

Materials: 85% polyamide, 15% elastane
Waist: Button/fly, mid-rise
Pockets: 5
What we like: Typical Fjallraven build quality and attention to detail.
What we don’t: Pricey and lacking in practical storage.

Swedish brand Fjallraven is known for their premium build quality and classy Scandinavian styling, and the High Coast Lite Trousers carry the torch. Like most designs here, the High Coast Lite has a stretchy and highly breathable construction that’s easy to move in and comfortable whether you’re killing time during a layover or hopping on an overnight flight. Versatility is another highlight: The pants look the part for around-town wear and are mobile and durable enough to cross over for hiking. Like the Kuhl Freeflex and TNF Aphrodite above, the High Coast also comes with a cinch cord at each cuff for tweaking the ankle opening, which makes it easy to pair with a wide variety of footwear. 

Fjallraven and quality are synonymous, and with that comes steeper price tags, but the $125 High Coast Lite Trousers left us wanting for a bit more. The storage layout was the biggest pain point for us: The two hand pockets are plenty deep, but we found them to be pretty uncomfortable and restrictive with a phone inside—our iPhone sat right where the hip flexes, which impeded natural movement and required removal before sitting down (we turned to our fanny pack instead on the journey home). It’s a similar story with the snap-equipped rear pockets, and the single zippered pocket on the right leg is too small for anything larger than a credit card. Finally, the Fjallraven’s button-and-fly closure isn’t our first choice for long travel days. These drawbacks are enough to push the High Coast Lite toward the bottom of our list, but there’s no denying the attractive styling and premium construction.
See the Fjallraven High Coast Lite Trousers

14. Mountain Hardwear Dynama High Rise Jogger ($89)

Materials: 94% nylon, 6% elastane
Waist: Elastic, high-rise
Pockets: 4
What we like: Thin, breathable fabric is great for mid-summer travel.
What we don’t: Lightweight build sacrifices some durability.

Mountain Hardwear’s Dynama Ankle Pant is one of our favorite hiking pants thanks to its great breathability and streamlined fit that moves with you, and the High Rise Jogger variation has a similar appeal for travel. Made with thin nylon and a little elastane for added mobility, the Dynama has a very light and airy feel (it’s the lightest design on our list at a scant 4.1 oz.), does a great job at wicking moisture and is quick to dry when wet. Another highlight is the wide, closure-free elastic waistband, which fits comfortably under a pack’s hipbelt and minimizes chafing and discomfort on sweaty skin. Tack on a relaxed but tailored jogger cut and two large zipper-equipped cargo pockets (plus two deep hand pockets), and you get a stylish and practical pant that’s well suited for mid-summer travel, hot-weather hikes, or simply lounging around on rest days.

Travelers headed to warm destinations will find a lot to like about the Mountain Hardwear Dynama High Rise Jogger, but there are some notable trade-offs to the lightweight build. First, similar to the Aphrodite 2.0 and Koen above, the Dynama doesn’t hold up well to frequent wear—the thin fabric is prone to pilling over time, and you’ll want to exercise caution if you wear them on the trail to avoid snags from branches or rocks. During testing, one of the thigh pockets also tore at the bottom, rendering it useless (although, to be fair, we did put the pants through the wringer by climbing in them). Additionally, the waistband—while comfortable—doesn’t hold its structure well over time and is noticeably thinner than competitors like the Patagonia Happy Hike Studio above. But if you treat the Dynama well and don’t mind the inherent downsides to the thin fabric, it's a great option for keeping you comfortable in sweltering heat.
See the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Jogger

15. Janji Transit Tech ($94)

Materials: 88% recycled polyester, 12% spandex
Waist: Elastic w/ drawcord, high-rise
Pockets: 3
What we like: Lightweight, breathable, and highly wind-resistant—a great dual travel and athletic pant.
What we don’t: Technical look and sizing runs small.

Janji is a running brand first and foremost, but they have a few offerings that cross over well for daily use and travel. Our current favorite is their Transit Tech Pant, which combines an impressively low weight (6 oz. for a small) with great all-day comfort and breathability. The namesake Transit Tech fabric is also impressively resistant to wind—many users cite them as great cold-weather running pants due to their ability to fend off chilling gusts. Janji was intentional about storage, too: You get two deep hand pockets (one of which has a handy key loop), as well as an additional side zippered pocket for securely storing a phone, wallet, or travel documents. Finally, while subtle, we really like the cuff design, which lacks the bunched-up look and feel of many other joggers here but still provides a secure fit around the ankle.

The Janji Transit Tech Pant is a nice option for travel, bike commutes, and running, but it has a noticeably more technical look and feel than many other designs here. In other words, those looking for a dual travel/work pant should steer clear. In our opinion, a pant like the OR Ferrosi Transit above makes more sense for most: Not only can it pull double duty for hiking, but it can also be dressed up with a pair of nice shoes for wearing to the office on occasion. The Transit Tech’s sizing also runs on the smaller end, although Janji did include an internal drawstring for dialing in fit at the waist should you opt to size up. In the end, the Janji’s relative lack of versatility keeps it from a higher spot on the list, but runners who travel frequently—or travelers who plan to maintain their running routine while away—might find it to be the perfect middle ground.
See the Janji Transit Tech

16. Seed The Antidote ($182)

Materials: 55% organic hemp, 41% organic cotton, 4% spandex
Waist: Elastic, mid/high-rise
Pockets: 2
What we like: Robust natural fabrics have great durability and breathability; nice deep pockets.
What we don’t: Expensive, fabric takes time to soften, and not everyone will love the unique cut and drop crotch.

And now for something completely different: If you trend off the beaten path and like to support smaller cottage brands, Seed's The Antidote pants are for you. Like Alder above, Seed is based in Canada and is the brain-child of Blake Ward, who decided that pants for active use shouldn't be made from fabrics that are bad for our bodies or the environment. The unisex The Antidote was born, and while relatively unknown, Seed has garnered an impressive following. One of our editors took a pair on a trip to Patagonia and was very pleased with how easily the pants retained their integrity after many dirty days without a wash. They breathed well in the heat and didn't get funky or stretched out, and the huge front pockets proved incredibly useful and secure despite not having zippers.

The Antidote pants will definitely not be for everyone. The most polarizing element for many will almost certainly be the drop-crotch cut that can cause a bit of a "pouf" in the tummy area—not something most women love. That said, as the fabric relaxes and softens through washing and wearing, this area starts to lay flatter, and you honestly might be so comfortable that you won't care. We've found the sizing to be a bit inconsistent between pairs and wish the waistband were wider for both comfort and style. The high price tag will also be a barrier for many, although we're often willing to spend up for slow fashion and high-quality materials. If you're on the hunt for something truly unique that can absolutely stand up to the rigors of travel, The Antidote is a winner. 
See the Seed The Antidote

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 and comfortable clothes while hopping flights, time zones, and weather patterns 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 16 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 is one of our newer offerings and was started by managing editor Sarah Nelson in late 2023. Sarah now collaborates with editor-in-chief Penney Garrett to choose the pants that are worthy of a place on our list. Sarah and Penney each bring a ton of experience to the table, both lifelong travelers and adventurers in various realms, with very different body types and opinionated preferences. From airports and motorcycles to rock walls and slot canyons, they know what goes into a good piece of 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 so you can have more weight and space left 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. 
 

Women’s Travel Pant Buying Advice

• What Makes a Good Travel Pant?
• Travel Pant Materials
• Travel Pant Styles
• Waist Designs
• Storage: Pockets
• Travel Pant Weight
• Water Resistance
• Thickness and Durability
• Sizing and Fit
• UPF Ratings
• Sustainability
• Do You Need Travel Pants?

What Makes a Good Travel Pant?

Unlike hiking pants, travel pants are a fairly ambiguous category, though certain characteristics make them well suited for travel. These include smooth and stretchy fabrics that are resistant to wrinkles and breathe well, good moisture-wicking capabilities, and the ability to dry quickly should 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 of time 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 or hiking, and many of the picks above can also be dressed up for wearing to work. Finally, quality travel pants stand up well to long-term use with snag- and abrasion-resistant fabrics that don’t pill over time.
 

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. In parsing out the differences, nylon is slightly more durable and softer than polyester, while the latter is a little less absorbent and quicker to dry, although the differences are relatively minor. Some brands are also focusing on more natural fabrics such as cotton or hemp, though it's important to keep in mind that these materials aren't as water-resistant or quick to dry. Moving onto stretch, a higher percentage of elastane will result in a more flexible feel, which can be especially nice for anyone who tends to size their pants on the tighter side. The added “give” is also a boon on long travel days, overnight flights, and mileage-heavy outings around town when comfort is top priority. For reference, Vuori's Miles Jogger is the most elastane-heavy option on our list with a whopping 21%, while the Patagonia Cotton Essential Pants forgo stretch completely in lieu of all-organic cotton.
 

Travel Pant Styles

Travel pants come in many styles: joggers with elastic at the ankles for keeping the cuffs out of the way, leggings that offer the ultimate in mobility, ankle pants (also known as cropped pants) that ride a little lower than capris, and traditional straight or wide-leg designs. Joggers are often our preferred option due to their loose but tailored fit that’s 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 (the Athleta Headlands Mid Rise is a notable exception with six zippered pockets). Next up, cropped pants like the Athleta Brooklyn Mid Rise ride right above the ankle and often have flared cuffs for a relaxed but refined look and pairing with a wide range of footwear. Finally, straight-leg designs like the OR Ferrosi Transit and Fjallraven High Coast 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 that have wide elastic waistbands with 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—either internal or external—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 zipper-equipped fly. In general, these are far less comfortable than elastic waistbands for all-day wear—there’s a reason that only two pants on our list (the Columbia Anytime Outdoor and Fjallraven High Coast Lite) use this type of design. It’s true that belt loops can be nice for dressing your pants up, but added hardware is a real downside for long travel days and pairing under a hipbelt. It's worth noting that Columbia Anytime boasts a snap and zipper (along with an external drawcord) but forgoes belt loops.
 

Storage: Pockets

Storage can make or break a travel pant, and we made sure to prioritize designs with practical layouts for stashing the essentials. One standout from our list above is the Athleta Headlands Hybrid Mid Rise Tight, which has a whopping six zippered pockets. Another is the Alder Open Air Pant, which boasts seven pockets, five of which are zippered. At the other end of the spectrum is Vuori’s Miles Jogger, which features just one zippered pocket at the rear that’s too small to accommodate a smartphone (only the non-zippered hand pockets work). Other options, like the Patagonia Organic Cotton Essential Pant, only have two non-zippered hand pockets. In the end, a final decision will come down to personal preference and where you like to store your valuables. Some folks (ourselves included) prefer to use a fanny pack or cross-body purse, but we certainly appreciate when pants have a phone- or document-friendly pocket for easy access while navigating through security checkpoints or walking around town when we reach our destination. 
 

Travel Pant Weight

Travel pants are an inherently light bunch due to their breathable and airy fabrics, and the weight spread among our picks is relatively small (9 to 11 oz. is fairly 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 High Rise Jogger at a scant 4.1 ounces, while the heaviest is the cozy Patagonia Cotton Essential at 14.4 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. The good news is that the two usually go hand-in-hand, meaning lighter pants will generally take up less space in a travel pack or duffel bag. However, one notable downside is that 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 comes as no surprise that travel pants wouldn’t be our first choice for wearing in 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 PFC-free, which means they’re made without the use of harmful perfluorocarbons). Most travel pants also utilize thin, lightweight fabrics that don’t soak up moisture and dry out quickly when wet, which is very helpful should 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 relatively thin. While most manufacturers don’t list the denier (a measurement of fabric thickness) for their travel designs, one good rule of thumb is that stretchier fabrics tend to hold up better due to their ability to “give” under pressure rather than tear. For example, the Vuori Miles Jogger (21% elastane) and Fjallraven High Coast Lite (15% elastane) are both impressively 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, two that fall a little short are the TNF Aphrodite and Mountain Hardwear Dynama Jogger, which use noticeably thin fabrics (this isn't a coincidence). If you’re concerned about long-term durability, consider opting for a thicker design (at the sacrifice of some breathability). The Antidote pants from Seed strike a unique middle ground here, with a breathable hemp and cotton blend that's also highly durable.
 

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 quite 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—for example, the Athleta Brooklyn Ankle Pant is offered in 15 sizes from 00 to 26, along with dedicated tall and petite versions. Some pants are also available in multiple inseam lengths, including the Athleta Headlands Hybrid Tight (26, 28, and 31-in. inseams), Alder Open Air (28 and 32-in. inseams), Outdoor Voices RecTrek (26 and 29 in. inseams), Prana Koen (28, 30, and 32-in. inseams), and aforementioned Brooklyn Ankle Pant (25.5, 27.5, and 30.5-in. inseams). We worked to call out sizing and fit discrepancies in the blurbs 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 gives an estimate of 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). In the case of travel pants, a UPF rating of 40 to 50 is fairly standard, although we have yet to meet anyone who’s been burned through their pants—even those without UPF coverage. That said, we certainly 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

In 2024, one of the primary ways we see manufacturers innovating is through the use of more sustainable materials. In the case of travel pants, this often comes in the form of 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 utilize the bluesign system for sourcing materials responsibly. Patagonia is a clear leader in the sustainability movement, but brands like Vuori and Outdoor Research have also made a sizable effort to reduce their footprint. Smaller cottage brands such as Seed and Alder are also excellent companies to support if this is important to you. In the end, we really appreciate when companies go the extra mile in being transparent about their production practices and environmental footprint.
 

Do You Need Travel Pants?

Dedicated travel pants can go a long way toward maximizing comfort during long plane rides and layovers, and many cross over seamlessly for around-town wear and sightseeing excursions once you reach your destination. That said, infrequent travelers may have a hard time justifying the fairly 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 relatively lightweight and breathable (a low-profile waistband is another plus). Standard leggings are also a viable alternative if you’re willing to deal with the lack of storage (a fanny pack or cross-body purse can fill in this gap), and two of our longtime favorites are Lululemon’s Align and Wunder Train collections. Beyond Yoga and Prana also make some high-quality tights and yoga pants that are very comfortable and offer excellent all-around mobility.
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