Whether I’m settling in for an international flight or walking to the gym, there’s a good chance you’ll find me wearing a hoodie. I love this versatile piece of clothing for its comfy fit, casual style, and protection from inclement weather. Hoodies come in various styles, fits, colors, and more, which makes them a must-pack clothing item.
We rounded up the best women’s hoodies for travel below after working with fellow Travel + Leisure editors to find their favorites and adding a few picks of my own. We have options for every kind of traveler, whether you prioritize smart features like water-resistant fabric and zip pockets or want to be as cozy as possible while lounging in your hotel room. There are picks with detachable hoods, full zippers, cropped hems, and more. No matter what your travel plans are, embark in style with one of the hoodies below.
If you want a hoodie that does the most, you’ll be hard-pressed to find one more impressive than the Portland Gear Cloudburst Hoodie. It feels thick and well-made, with a large hood and structured wrists and waist hem. The fit is slightly oversized, so it feels cozy without being bulky. There is plenty of room to layer a short or long-sleeved shirt underneath comfortably. My favorite part? It’s water-resistant. The outer layer of the garment features a PFAS-free Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating that allows light rain to bead up and roll right off. This, combined with the thickness of the fabric, keeps you dry if you end up caught in an unexpected shower. I live in one of the rainiest cities in the U.S. and love to pop this on before a walk — it has saved me from getting soaked on more than one occasion.
The hoodie also has other features I love for travel, including a small zippered pocket inside the large kangaroo pocket that can fit my phone or passport. I also like the oversized hood that’s great for keeping me dry in the rain and for blocking out annoying airplane lights without needing to put on an eye mask. It’s not going to replace my rain jacket, but the combination of water resistance and comfort makes this my go-to hoodie in almost every situation. The only caveat is that it requires special washing instructions (no detergent and no dryers) to preserve the DWR coating.
The Details: S to 3XL | 72 percent cotton and 28 percent polyester
Nike has been a leader in the activewear and athleisure space for decades, so it’s no surprise that the brand makes a solid hoodie. T+L senior editor Jasmine Grant loves how soft and cozy the inner fleece lining is and notes that she hasn’t seen any pilling or color fading after multiple washes. It has a standard fit, so it isn’t noticeably tight or bulky. Grant also likes that the hood is a bit more snug than other hoodies she owns because it keeps her head and ears warm in chilly weather and on cold flights.
This hoodie has a large kangaroo pocket on the front and drawstrings on the hood. It comes in a slew of colorways and unisex sizing. Popular colors tend to sell out fast on Nike’s website, so Grant suggests checking out other retailers for more color options. You can also purchase matching joggers if you want the whole outfit.
The Details: 2XS to 4XL (regular and tall sizes available) | Cotton and polyester
T+L senior editor Jackie Cucco doesn’t like hoodies sitting too high on her neck, which is why she prefers this half-zip option from Athleta that allows her to control the neckline. The zipper also makes it easy to take on and off, which is useful for travel situations like airport security or while sitting in a small train seat. The outside of the hoodie is soft and smooth, while the inside is lined with plush fleece that’s incredibly comfortable on the skin. It comes in several colors and regularly rotates through limited-edition colorways, although these tend to sell out quickly and don’t always come back.
These hoodies run true to size (size up if you want a baggier fit) and are slightly cropped to hit just above the waistband. Cucco also says they’re plenty warm: she has worn hers on cold winter days layered over a long-sleeve shirt and remained comfortable. Athleta also offers an impressive size range of 2XS to 3XL, with options for regular, tall, and petite sizes.
The Details: 2XS to 3XL (regular, tall, and petite sizes available) | Cotton, polyester, and spandex
This hoodie from Paka is sourced from Peru and hand-crafted (and signed) by a local woman artisan. Each piece from the brand is sustainably made and traceable every step of the way, supporting families throughout the country. It’s made from a soft alpaca wool blend, which adds tons of warmth without feeling hot or scratchy. Cucco likes that it is on the longer side without looking like she’s wearing a baggy, bulky blanket. The unisex sizing may run a bit large and long for women, so you may want to size down depending on your torso length and personal preference.
This hoodie has a relatively simple design with a small kangaroo pocket on the front and a fitted hood without drawstrings. It comes in five colors, and sizes range from 2XS to 2XL. Because it’s made with alpaca wool, Paka recommends hand washing it in cold water, although it can be put in the washing machine in a delicate setting. Either way, make sure to lay it flat to dry.
The Details: 2XS to 2XL | Royal alpaca fiber and nylon
Who says your hoodie can’t be a fashion statement? This cropped pick from Alo Yoga is a favorite of Cucco’s because it’s flattering without being bulky and has a thick ribbed design to make it stand out. This fits true to size, and the hem should sit just above the belly button when standing straight. The polyester, rayon, and spandex blend is lightweight, and the side hems have a slight split, making this ideal for indoor activities or warmer weather. You can purchase matching sweatpants for a cute and comfy set that’s perfect for lounging on vacation.
Keep in mind that this hoodie has no pockets, which helps with the flattering fit but means you’ll need to rely on the right pants (or a bag) to hold your phone, wallet, or keys. Cucco also notes that because it’s so cropped, she prefers to pair it with extra high-waisted bottoms, but this will come down to personal preference.
The Details: 2XS to L | Polyester, rayon, and spandex
According to T+L associate editorial director Morgan Ashley Parker, this hoodie is perfect for you if you “enjoy the feeling of being lost in a cozy cocoon.” The oversized fit makes it baggy and loose if you’re purchasing your usual size, but the fit still remains flattering. Parker prefers this particular style because it has an applique logo (instead of a printed one) that has not faded despite multiple washes.
This hoodie is made with 100 percent cotton and comes in five neutral colors, with other colorways available seasonally. Matching sweatpants can also be purchased to complete the look. While this top has a cleaner look without drawstrings on the hood, it does mean there’s no way to cinch the hood, which also runs oversized. But if you don’t mind the lack of customization, this is a great hoodie for fans of a larger fit.
The Details: XS to 3XL | Cotton
If you want a cropped hoodie but prefer a full zipper on the front, you’ll love this boxy option from Aritzia. Parker loves the thick fleece material that makes it warm enough to wear in place of a jacket on milder days. While the hem isn’t as high as our other cropped pick (the website refers to it as an “almost-cropped” length), it’s short enough to avoid bunching or bagging. Parker notes that she can fully raise her arms without exposing her midriff, striking the ideal balance of coverage and style. It also has drop shoulders and a boxy fit that tapers at the waist to add a bit of shape.
This hoodie comes in over 20 colors, including many neutral options and several colorful picks. Aritzia offers several bottoms in this line, including the Mega Jogger and Mega Cargo Sweatpants, so you can mix and match for a variety of outfit choices. While this is machine-washable, Parker recommends hanging it to try to avoid shrinking.
The Details: 2XS to 2XL | Cotton, polyester, and elastane
I love an oversized hoodie, but my secret is turning to activewear brands. As a self-proclaimed gym rat, I can attest that we love oversized everything, and Gymshark is one of the most well-known brands in the business. This option is everything I want in an oversized hoodie: baggy without feeling bulky, plenty warm, and still remarkably flattering. I love to wear this hoodie for sleeping on airplanes because it is supremely cozy in an otherwise supremely un-cozy space. I also love the large hood that acts as a blinder to my surroundings and even covers my eyes if I need it to, allowing me to create my own little bubble while I fly.
The drop-shoulder sleeves and slightly cropped hem add some style to an otherwise simple top. The drawstrings solidify this as a casual option but also allow you to tighten the hood if you wish. My only gripe with this hoodie is that the hood comes to a bit of a point at the seam — it’s not overly noticeable, but I do find myself smoothing it down throughout the day. Other than that, you can find me wearing this on just about every airplane I board.
The Details: 2XS to 2XL | Cotton and polyester
Most hoodies don’t fit T+L associate editor Anna Popp’s personal style, but this chic cashmere sweater option from Lilysilk is the exception. It’s made from 100 percent cashmere that is silky-smooth on the skin, making it Popp’s go-to airplane top. What really takes it over the top is the detachable hood: once removed, the hoodie turns into a dressy sweater that can be worn on fancier occasions. This makes it wildly versatile for all kinds of travelers and helps cut down on packing space.
Like many of the hoodies on this list, you can purchase matching pants to make this a set. Popp has both and enjoys wearing them together for an updated look on the classic sweatsuit, but the top is nice enough to wear with jeans or over a dress. Keep in mind that cashmere is a delicate fabric, and traveling can take a toll on this hoodie over time. Popp has noticed some pilling after trips and takes it to the cleaner regularly. However, we think it’s worth a bit of extra care for such a timeless and versatile piece.
The Details: XS to L | Cashmere
Popp also loves the look of this hoodie from Naadam, feeling that it is a little more upscale than the average piece. It’s made from 100 percent cashmere as well, giving it a soft and lightweight feel that’s luxurious on the skin. Popp prefers wearing it as a mid-layer and appreciates that it goes with jeans, leggings, dresses, and more. The stitching and fabric are high-quality, and it’s so soft, making it undeniably comfortable to wear. While elevated, the style is on the casual side, and it’s versatile enough for most travel adventures.
Because it’s made from cashmere, this jacket needs to be hand-washed or dry-cleaned to maintain its quality. Popp also admits that the zipper doesn’t run as smoothly as she would like. But if you’re looking for a high-quality zippered hoodie, this one should check all the boxes for most travelers.
The Details: 2XS to 3XL | Cashmere
Sun protection is important year-round, which is why we love that the Hikerkind Trail Sun Hoodie offers UPF 50-plus sun protection and blocks 98 percent of harmful UV rays. T+L’s outdoor gear editor Taylor Fox loves to wear this protective clothing item while hiking to protect her skin without feeling overheated. She also likes it for long travel days since it offers a bit of warmth thanks to the long sleeves, but is loose enough that she remains plenty comfortable after being in it for hours.
This hoodie has buttons that go from the neck to about halfway down the front, as well as buttons on the wrists to allow you to customize the fit and breathability as needed. The hood can be tightened with drawstrings. Fox says that while it is very comfortable, the nylon material isn’t particularly cozy, so you may want a more plush top if that’s your preference.
The Details: XS to 3XL | Nylon and elastane
Another UPF 50-plus hoodie I love is the ActiveIce Spectrum Sun Hoodie from Outdoor Research. Made from a blend of polyester and spandex, it’s treated with a unique technology that helps to regulate body temperatures while on the move. I primarily wear this while hiking because I know I won’t overheat even when it’s warm out. The fabric feels smooth on my skin, and the fitted silhouette is flattering but allows plenty of movement. I also like that the shoulder seams are designed to avoid chafing under backpack straps.
This hoodie has thumbholes that can add a bit of extra warmth on chilly spring or fall hikes. It also has a hole in the back of the hood that you can put your ponytail through if you have long hair, which is a nice touch. The hood is quite snug, so it may be uncomfortable if you have a larger head or thick hair, but it wraps you like a cocoon as it’s intended. Although it’s not very warm or cozy, I love wearing this outdoors on sunny days for UV protection without needing to slather my arms with sunscreen.
The Details: XS to 4XL | Polyester and spandex
Our Testing Process
All the hoodies on this list have been vetted, tested, and recommended by T+L editors, who have worn them while flying, hiking, hitting the gym, running errands, and lounging at home. When choosing the best hoodies for travel, we always look for high-quality materials, comfort, packability, fit, and travel-friendly features. Our team has owned their hoodies for anywhere from a few months to several years and spent hours testing them in real-world settings to determine which are the best for travelers.
Tips for Buying a Hoodie for Women
Consider the fit
Hoodies are versatile pieces of clothing that can range significantly in tightness and length. Many hoodies are meant to be worn over a shirt, so you typically won’t find ones that are extremely fitted. However, several on our list, like ones designed for warm weather or to be fashionable, are meant to sit tighter on the body. You can always size up on these if you prefer. Other hoodies are meant to be baggier for comfort and warmth, while oversized hoodies are typically deemed the coziest.
You’ll also want to consider the hem length when choosing a hoodie. Some people prefer cropped pieces, which can sit at or just below the belly button, while others might want something long enough to offer some rear coverage. Most brands will provide measurements of their products online, so you can confirm the length of the hoodie before you buy.
Opt for travel-friendly features
All of the hoodies on this list have been worn by T+L editors while traveling, but their usefulness will vary depending on the type of trip you’re going on. For example, I like to wear an oversized hoodie with a large hood on long flights because it keeps me comfortable and allows me to block out excess light. But if I’m going on a hiking trip, I would opt for a lightweight hoodie with built-in UPF sun protection instead.
Before buying a hoodie, think about how you want to use it and what features will be helpful while on the road. If you’re going through the airport, you might want large pockets to hold your phone and passport. If you’re packing light, you might prefer a convertible option or a simple style that can be worn with multiple outfits. You’ll also want to consider washing and care instructions to make sure you can keep it in good condition wherever you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How should I pack a hoodie?
You can pack a hoodie similarly to how you would pack a sweater, cardigan, or jacket. Before putting it in your suitcase or bag, lay it on a flat surface and smooth out any wrinkles. Next, fold each sleeve across the body to create a rectangular shape. From here, you can fold it into a square or roll it — whichever way you prefer to pack your clothes. If you’re packing a lot of clothes, you can use packing cubes to keep everything organized.
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What is the best way to wash a hoodie?
To keep a hoodie in good condition, you’ll want to wash it based on the manufacturer’s instructions listed on the care label. If your hoodie can be thrown in the washing machine, turn it inside out before washing it to protect the outer fabric and any decals. Washing it in cold water will help prevent shrinking or fading, especially if your hoodie is made from cotton. Use a mild detergent and choose a gentle cycle to avoid damaging the fabric.
After washing, the surest way to preserve the quality of your hoodie is to air dry it, although it’s okay to put it in the dryer as long as the care label says it’s safe to do so. Some materials, including cashmere and wool, must be hand-washed or dry-cleaned to preserve the fabrics.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
T+L updates writer Anne Taylor practically lives in hoodies, whether she’s cozying up for a flight, hitting the gym, or walking her dog. To compile this list, she recommended several of her favorite hoodies and reached out to colleagues to get their thoughts on the best women’s hoodies for travel.
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