The Best Travel Jackets For Your First Vacation

Avoid common overpacking mistakes by picking a very convenient article of clothing.

Packing outerwear can be a challenge for any traveler, much less first-time travelers. Long-term forecasts are rarely set in stone, so you never know when you're going to need a rain jacket or extra layers for particularly chilly weather. But with only so much room in your luggage, it can be difficult not to overpack.

That's where a travel jacket comes in. Typically constructed of lightweight, easily compressible materials, travel jackets can be the perfect solution to bring along on your vacation. Many even come with hidden pockets so they're perfect to wear from your flight to your tourist destination.

BOMBAX Women's Travel Jacket
Passport, headphones, a pencil for your customs survey—there's a place for everything. | BOMBAX

This jacket is like a Swiss Army knife that you wear. Features such as 10 practical hidden pockets, built-in gloves, an eye mask, a power bank, earphone holders, a two-in-one pen, microfiber cloth, and even a packable neck pillow that inflates and deflates in seconds make it the perfect in-flight companion and onwards.

WOSAWE Men's Reflective Jacket
Spending a lot of time exploring, especially in late hours, requires special features. | WOSAWE

You'll stay dry no matter what weather you encounter with this waterproof jacket that features a mesh lining and built-in vents to effectively keep sweat out of your skin. The exterior reflective material enhances your safety by making you visible at night from any direction.

AyeGear J25 Jacket and Vest with 25 Pockets
There's never been a more accurate depiction of "a place for everything." | AyeGear

For a high-performance jacket that does it all, this convertible-style has removable sleeves that can be transformed into a vest, and a concealed rollaway zipped hood for added rain protection. An impressive 25 specialized compartments are designed to hold everything from wallets, coins, and passports to tablets and small laptops.

Quikflip 2-in-1 Reversible Backpack Jacket
Sometimes it isn't cold enough for an added layer. In that case it's good to have choices. | Quikflip

When you need a versatile solution for traveling, concerts, hiking, and more—this travel jacket converts into a functional backpack within seconds. Once converted into a backpack, you'll find two storage compartments: one for larger items and one for smaller valuables like your wallet, keys, and cellphone.

Amazon Essentials Women's Polar Soft Fleece Jacket
Don't wear something that is a burden. Can't be uncomfortable on vacation. | Polar

You'll love this midweight fleece jacket that features a high collar, full-zip front, side-seam zippered pockets, and elasticized cuffs, which is contoured for a fitted look. It's perfect as a finishing touch for cool weather, or as a comfy base layer when you need to really bundle up.