We love idyllic fall days—those colorful leaf backdrops, crisp temperatures perfect for walking, and plenty of sunshine. However, we hate packing bulky jackets to prepare for those not-so-fun fall weather hallmarks, like rain, clouds, and cold nights.
To solve this dilemma, we’ve curated a selection of the best lightweight, packable jackets designed for travel. These versatile options will keep you warm and dry throughout fall’s varied conditions without taking up too much luggage space.
Quince 100 Percent Suede Biker Jacket
When you want a jacket that will look timeless and stylish in any city, pack Quince’s 100 Percent Suede Biker Jacket. True to its name, this jacket is crafted entirely from luxuriously soft suede leather. It’s lined with satin, which feels nice and smooth against your layers and prevents damage to delicate fabrics worn underneath.
Despite its premium materials and construction, this jacket is priced at just $150, an unusually affordable option for an all-leather jacket. This competitive pricing stems from Quince’s innovative business model, which employs small-batch production techniques and maintains lower overhead costs. The result is a high-quality, versatile jacket that doesn’t break the bank, leaving you with more money to spend on fall trips.
Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket
If you’re looking for a jacket that can withstand anything, reach for Flint and Tinder’s Waxed Trucker Jacket, as seen on Pedro Pascal as he runs from zombies in The Last of Us. If the jacket can outlast the apocalypse, it’ll surely survive your fall trip.
The secret to this jacket’s resilience lies in its waxed and weather-resistant sailcloth, a durable material that improves with age. Wax on both sides of the shell adds warmth and insulation, and the exterior can be rewaxed as needed to ensure a lifetime of water resistance.
Inside, a soft, blanket-like lining provides extra coziness for chilly days. Travelers will appreciate the practical exterior button pocket and interior media pocket.
M.M. LaFleur Jolie Jardigan
When you need a layer that’s not too heavy and not too light, pack M.M. LaFleur’s Jolie Jardigan. This innovative jacket/cardigan hybrid features a cropped silhouette, stylish lapels, and removable shoulder pads, making it equally suitable for business trips and casual vacations.
Effortlessly adaptable, the Jardigan can be worn as a polished blazer for professional settings or paired with jeans for a more relaxed, cardigan-like look. Its stretchy knit fabric is not only comfortable but resists wrinkles.
Patagonia Macro Puff Hoody
Never be caught unprepared with Patagonia’s Macro Puff Hoody—a handy jacket that’s always ready when you need it. This ingenious puffy jacket compresses into its own pocket, making it a breeze to stash in your day bag or carry-on for instant warmth on demand.
As the beefier sibling of the Micro Puff, the Macro Puff delivers impressive heat without compromising on weight. At a mere 15.48 ounces, it’s remarkably light yet incredibly warm. Its adaptability shines through in various scenarios: wear it as a liner under your ski jacket, don it solo for a hiking expedition, or sport it while exploring urban landscapes.
The jacket’s recycled polyester insulation is a game-changer for unpredictable weather. Unlike down, it retains its warming properties even when wet, while a water-repellent and windproof finish adds extra protection against the elements. Whether you’re facing drizzles or gusts, the Macro Puff keeps you cozy and dry.
Smartwool Fleece Jacket
Smartwool’s Active Fleece Half-Zip combines the snug comfort of fleece with the moisture-wicking properties of merino wool. This mid-weight jacket is perfect for those crisp days when you need just the right amount of warmth. Its slim profile makes it an excellent layering piece, easily slipping under a heavier jacket when temperatures really dip.
Reflective elements make this fleece our go-to for fall trips when daylight fades early. Whether you’re out for an evening run or a twilight stroll, these reflective details will help ensure you’re visible.
A secure chest pocket keeps your essentials—like your smartphone or travel documents—within easy reach.
Cole Haan Signature Travel Packable Rain Jacket
Cole Haan’s Signature Travel Packable Rain Jacket offers reliable protection against sudden downpours or day-long drizzle without weighing down your luggage. This water-resistant jacket hits just above the knee, offering more coverage than other rain jackets.
If you’re worried about looking shapeless in all your travel photos, don’t be—a drawcord waist allows you to get a nipped-in waist and a custom fit. When the sun comes out, simply pack the jacket away into an included drawstring pouch.
Quikflip 2-in-1 Reversible Backpack Jacket
Originally appearing on Shark Tank, Quikflip’s unique 2-in-1 Reversible Backpack Jacket does double-duty as a backpack and jacket. When you get hot, take off the jacket, tuck it in the hidden pouch, and pull out the drawcords to convert it into a backpack.
No matter which way you wear it, the Quikflip has pockets for both large items and smaller valuables.
Dudley Stephens Uptown Blazer
Blazers are great for fighting the fall chill and for looking pulled-together, but sometimes long for the comfort of your favorite fleece sweatshirt. With Dudley Stephens’ Uptown Blazer, you never have to choose between style and comfort.
The Uptown Blazer combines luxurious details—such as a double-breasted design, satin lining, and gold buttons—with Dudley Stephens’ signature cozy Vello Fleece fabric.
Light shoulder padding and waist darts give the blazer additional structure to make it appropriate for business trips or the first-class cabin, while still maintaining the sweatshirt-like feel.
Duer LuxTwill Trucker Jacket
Trucker jackets are having a moment, and travelers can rejoice—they’re not just stylish, but incredibly packable too. Duer’s LuxTwill Trucker Jacket is a perfect example of this trend. Crafted from a cotton-elastane blend, this jacket folds down to a compact size, making it easy to slide into your carry-on.
An antimicrobial treatment keeps this jacket fresh for extended wear, so don’t worry about washing it as soon as you step off the plane. It also has plenty of pockets large enough to fit your phone and other essentials.
Quince 100 Percent Leather Motorcycle Jacket
Headed to Berlin, New York City, or somewhere where you want to look as cool as the locals? Pack Quince’s Leather Motorcycle Jacket. Quince put a modern spin on the iconic biker jacket silhouette, resulting in a timeless style that will work on a variety of trips for years to come.
The two-way zipper front closure and zippered sleeve gussets not only add to the biker aesthetic but also provide practical functionality, making it a great travel companion as it allows for easy adjustments to varying temperatures.
With zip pockets at the hip and chest, it offers convenient storage without compromising on style, keeping your essentials secure while you’re on the go.
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• The Ultimate Checklist for Traveling Abroad
We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
