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A cardigan is the quintessential travel companion, providing comfort, versatility, and a touch of effortless style. But with endless options, searching for the right one can feel overwhelming. To simplify your search, we consulted Travel + Leisure editors, who tested and selected the best cardigans for your next adventure.
This curated edit prioritizes key elements, including quality, fit, style, durability, and packability. Travel-friendly cardigans from brands such as Everlane, Vince, Jenni Kayne, and Lilysilk were recommended by editors, and I personally tested options from Reformation and J.Crew. I wore mine traveling in New Zealand and layering under my coat for the daily school run in New York City. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious cashmere sweater for a cooler climate, a lightweight knit, or a versatile piece to layer on the go, this guide has you covered.
T+L writer Anne Taylor describes this cardigan as “plain without being boring,” which is a quality that makes it easy to style with various outfits, from comfortable airport ensembles to looks for long days spent exploring.
With a classic V-neck, flattering slouchy shoulders, and a slightly cropped fit, it layers well over pants and shorter hemlines. The boxy structure is designed to look relaxed, and the fabric has a textural element. It is made from chunky, ribbed cotton rendered in nine different colorways.
Another reason why it’s great for travel: it’s wrinkle-resistant, so it’s a low-maintenance staple to have on hand. “I’ve packed it in a suitcase several times and have never seen a single wrinkle, which is impressive because I seem to have a knack for wrinkling my clothes while traveling,” Taylor confirmed.
The only consideration that Taylor noted for buying this cardigan as a travel garment is the thicker material, which takes up more suitcase space. “I wouldn’t want to change that because ultimately I think it speaks to the quality, but it’s something to keep in mind for light packers,” she explains. So, if you’re traveling with a carry-on only, you may want to wear it over your shoulders or opt for a lighter cashmere knit instead.
The Details: Sizes 2XS to 2XL | 100 percent organic cotton
Renowned for luxurious bedding and bath bundles, Cozy Earth also has some of the very best loungewear staples on the market, like this oversized cardigan. T+L senior editor, Jasmine Grant, says it’s “hefty and warm, and versatile enough to be paired with a variety of outfits from loungewear to dressier daytime outfits.” Grant considers this classic cardigan a go-to for chilly plane rides and to wear while working from home, noting that the V-neck and tortoiseshell buttons give it a timeless and elevated look. It’s available in multiple colorways, too, so you can opt for your favorite color. Due to the nature of the oversized fit, it’s going to have a slouchy feel, but you can size down as desired.
The Details: Sizes XS to XL | Bamboo, modal, and nylon
As the brand name suggests, this elegant cardigan feels silky and lovely to wear. “It’s made from a wool and cashmere blend (90 percent wool and 10 percent cashmere), so it’s toasty warm without any of the scratchiness that sometimes comes with 100 percent wool sweaters and cardigans,” Taylor said. Another reason that Taylor recommends this cardigan is that it doesn’t crease, so it’s a low-maintenance staple to travel with. It features a wide shawl collar that accentuates the V-neck and has large pockets at the hip, making it feel extra cozy to lounge in (and convenient if you are popping out for the morning coffee run without a bag).
The Details: Sizes S to L | Wool and cashmere
T+L senior editor Jackie Cucco owns this Old Navy cardigan in three different colorways, and with the fair price, she could buy all for less than what a single cardigan could cost elsewhere. In addition to being available in various colorways from muted to bright shades, it’s also available in a broad sizing range, including petite, regular, and tall options. “It is fitted and true to size, hitting above the hips but not cropped,” explains Cucco, adding that the fabric is thin but warm. “I’ve brought it with me to various cold destinations like Jackson Hole and Denver, and also wear it to work in New York City,” she added. “It’s versatile and easy to throw in a tote bag (or maybe even a smaller bag because it folds up pretty small) if you think you may get chilly.”
The Details: Sizes XS to 4XL (petite, regular, and tall) | Cotton, recycled polyester, and polyester
Vince continues to master the art of elevating basic wardrobe staples, and this simple cardigan is a prime example of that design philosophy. It’s a classic silhouette that has been refined with contrasted piping and sleek snap buttons that give it an elegant flair. T+L associate editorial director Morgan Ashley Parker said that the contrasting color at the sleeves, pocket, and placket makes it feel dressier than a block-colored cardigan, which is a bonus if you are looking for a piece that can provide warmth and also double as a more formal “going out” top. Pair it over a simple tank top and a skirt, and you have an effortless look that will translate well from sightseeing to dinner in the evening.
The Details: Sizes 2XS to XL | Wool, cotton, nylon, cashmere, and spandex
Lake is a haven of loungewear that is stylish, sustainable, and supremely comfortable, and this roomy cardigan is an excellent travel layer to have on hand. “I’ve worn it flying and on a long train ride, and it’s just a perfect extra layer for when things get chilly,” T+L editor Taylor Fox said. Like the brand’s popular Pima cotton pajamas, this cardigan feels soft and easy to wear. The varsity-style stripes add a subtle point of interest, and the V-neck is high enough to be worn alone (directly over a bra) as a sweater or over a camisole. It’s made with 100 percent cotton material that is thick enough to wear when the temperatures drop, but not so hot that you’ll overheat easily.
The Details: Sizes 2XS to 2XL | 100 percent cotton
Synonymous with quiet luxury, Jenni Kayne’s cropped cashmere cardigan is perfect for casual moments in beautiful places. It is crafted from the highest quality cashmere, and it’s available in classic and seasonal colorways, all of which are versatile enough to pair with anything from a flowy dress for a night out to daytime denim thanks to the cropped fit. Associate editor Anna Popp praised its soft fabric, which made it lovely to travel with. “I brought it with me on a six-week-long trip home in the winter, and it was the perfect cashmere sweater to pair with jeans or leggings since it has that versatile knit look with oversized buttons.” You can pair it with a V-neck camisole, capri pants, or a gold chain necklace, and you have a comfortable airplane outfit formula any season.
The Details: Sizes 2XS to 3XL | 100 percent Mongolian cashmere
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It is knee-length, so if you’re going to be wearing it on public transport, consider going for a darker colorway as cashmere can be difficult to clean.
“My favorite thing about this cardigan is the length because it’s warm and cozy like a robe, but it’s more elegant to wear out of the house,” Cucco raved. “I also like the thick ribbing on it, which adds some texture, as well as the slouchy pockets because not all sweaters and cardigans have pockets.” The seamless structure makes it look more polished and formal, particularly with the black colorway, which has more of a traditional duster look. It’s made entirely from cashmere, but it is on the thicker side, so it has a bit more structure, like what you would expect on a wool overcoat. Cucco also praised its quality construction, noting that it doesn’t pill like cheaper cashmere options.
The Details: Sizes XS to XL | 100 percent cashmere
Quince creates luxurious essentials for a reasonable price, and its vast range of knitwear is no exception, with many merino wool and cashmere options for under $100. This cable knit cardigan with a wide collar and a shirt-style structure is T+L writer Asia London Palomba’s preferred cardigan. “It’s got a cropped design that’s a true crop — I’m 5 feet tall, and it hits right at my hips, so it’s flattering. I’ve basically been living in it,” she raved. It’s roomy enough to wear over another sweater for extra cold days, but it’s not too bulky, so you can easily layer a wool overcoat on top, too.
The Details: Sizes XS to XL | 100 percent Australian Merino wool
A matching set is the simplest way to achieve a streamlined look. This cardigan and tank duo from Abercrombie and Fitch is an excellent two-for-one option. “It’s great for traveling since I can wear the tank underneath and button it all the way up for a dressier look or dress it down by leaving the buttons open,” Popp said. Whether you opt for the cream, brown, or gray stripe version, you can rest assured that you’ll have a low-maintenance look on hand, ready to style with jeans and ballet flats or a mini skirt and leather boots for something dressier.
The Details: Sizes 2XS to XL | Polyester, nylon, acrylic, wool, and elastane
You can rely on Reformation for flattering and wearable staples, like this chic cotton cardigan. It’s fitted but is comfortable enough for virtually any activity — I layer mine over a sports bra and wear it to workout classes, where I’m moving my arms around in all directions, and it never feels restrictive. It’s a great piece to pair with athleisure, but it can be adapted to complete any daily uniform, from the school drop-off paired with cropped jeans, or to a meeting layered under a tailored suit. I have it in the classic black, but it’s also available in other neutral colors, too.
The Details: Sizes XS to XL | Organic cotton and nylon
This fine rib knit cardigan from J.Crew has a distinctly 90s style and looks like something that could live in the wardrobe for the cast of Friends. The silhouette is true to a classic cardigan: slim-fit, boat neck, with small circular buttons. It’s the perfect transitional wardrobe staple, and unlike many other cardigans, the buttons are perfectly matched to the color of the fabric, be it a teal blue, vibrant red, ivory, or jet black (the gray version is the only one with contrasting white buttons). Another advantage? It is machine washable, so it’s a low-maintenance option.
The Details: Sizes 2XS to 3XL | Cotton, modal rayon, and elastane
Our Testing Process
Each cardigan recommended has been thoroughly tested by T+L editors, both at home and on journeys all around the world. During the testing phase, our editors considered key elements including durability, versatility, packability, fabric composition, style, and fit, and made recommendations based on their findings. We assessed options from leading contemporary brands like Reformation, Everlane, Vince, Jenni Kayne, and more. I personally tested cardigans from Reformation and J.Crew and wore them in various environments to share my favorites for building up your capsule wardrobe, too.
Tips for Buying a Cardigan
Pick a versatile style
There are lots of cardigans to choose from, including different fits and materials. It’s important to pick a style that will suit your personal preferences, so you’ll wear it as much as you can on the go. We also chatted with stylish Jordanna Sharp to get styling tips and tricks.
“For travel specifically, comfort is, of course, key,” Sharp said. “With that being said, we often wear joggers to travel in, [so] to elevate the typical jogger and sneaker travel look, pairing with a soft cotton or cashmere fitted cardigan works perfectly,” she adds. “You can add a scarf to the look for layering, or if you’re opting for leggings to travel, then a slightly more oversized and boxy fit cardigan proportionally works best with leggings, and you can wear it unbuttoned with a simple white tee under leggings, cashmere socks, and sneakers.”
Opt for travel-friendly materials
Consider the climate in your destination before making a purchase. Are you going somewhere cold? Cashmere and Merino wool are the obvious options for warmth. Whereas cotton would be best for warmer climates or traveling in the summer. “Wool can often be itchy, so material-wise, I would advise either cotton, which is also more breathable, or 100 percent cashmere for warmth on the plane. If you’re investing in a luxurious sweater like cashmere, note that the upkeep can be a tad high-maintenance, which isn’t always best for traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I wash a cardigan?
Like any other garment, the fabric composition dictates the best way to wash a cardigan, so be sure to check the tag to confirm what the material is composed of. Some options may be machine-washable, but to best preserve your cardigan’s shape, use a mesh bag, mild detergent, and a delicate and cool cycle. If it is cashmere or wool, a cold hand wash or dry cleaning is the best option to ensure it retains its structure.
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What yarn is best for cardigans?
The ideal yarn depends on what kind of cardigan you are looking for. If you’re seeking something warm and cozy, cashmere and wool are the best options and will provide the most insulation. But if warmth isn’t your primary objective, cotton is a good option, as it is versatile for various climates, and is often easier to care for, with some options being machine-washable. Synthetic fibers like nylon can provide more elasticity if you’re seeking something with a little more give for workouts and days on the move.
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How should I pack a cardigan?
For thinner cardigans, made from cotton, linen, or lighter fabrics, lay them flat, buttoned up, and fold the sleeves inwards. From there, fold the body into thirds to create a compact rectangle. This method will minimize creases and save suitcase space. If you have a bulkier cardigan with a thicker fabric, rolling can be preferable. Using packing cubes can also be useful to prevent things from shifting around.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Amy Louise Bailey is an experienced luxury travel and lifestyle expert with a background in fashion. For this article, she assessed cardigans from Reformation and J.Crew, trialing them in different environments, and she reviewed the recommendations and testing results from T+L editors.
She also interviewed fashion stylist Jordanna Sharp, who provided advice on what to look for when purchasing a cardigan.
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