13 Best Lightweight Rain Jackets for Travelers 2023
October 6, 2023
For weeks before a trip to Machu Picchu, I zipped to every sporting goods shop in town, obsessing over the perfect hiking gear and laser-focused on buying the right footwear. The hiking boots I found were hefty, but I figured they’d be worth the extra weight in my suitcase. When I saw there was possible rain in the forecast and barely any space in my bag, I tossed an old windbreaker in without much thought.
Of course, as I later trudged along a rainy eight-hour hike—moisture leaking through that windbreaker and my damp clothes starting to chafe—I realized just how essential the right rain jacket is, especially in unpredictable weather.
Having learned my lesson, I tried a few on for size. First, a Uniqlo Women Blocktech Coat, which was versatile in appearance and folded relatively flat in my suitcase, but left me drenched after a torrential downpour in the Azores. Then, I decided to go double duty and snagged Columbia’s Carson Pass Interchangeable Jacket. The Omni-Tech waterproof technology on the outer layer kept me dry from rain and waterfalls during a winter trip to Portland, Oregon—and when I zipped it with the Omni-Heat inner layer, kept me cozy during a snowy January trip to Quebec City. But even just the outer rain jacket layer was bulky to travel with.
From there, I continued the search for portable, lightweight rain jackets you’d actually want to travel with. Below, nine top picks from brands like Patagonia, Columbia, Rains, and Arc’teryx. They’ll help you stay dry on your next trip—and during summer rainstorms closer to home—whether you want something knee-length, for the kids, or that turns into a fanny pack.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
Columbia Arcadia II rain jacket
The Columbia Arcadia II rain jacket has just the right dose of everything. Its Omni-Tech nylon fabric is sturdy enough to make you feel protected, but its mesh lining is breathable enough to maintain comfort, even on the trails or while riding a bike—and the adjustable velcro cuffs and collar allow you to quickly make adjustments on the go. Plus, the whole thing zips into a pouch in one of the hand pockets.
Coalatree Whistler windbreaker
Finding durability in a lightweight rain jacket can feel like an oxymoron, but Coalatree has found the secret in its self-healing HiloTech fabric with the Whistler Windbreaker. Whether it’s a puncture or tear, just rub your fingers over the rip and the heat and friction will cause it to mend on its own. Even better, the unisex jacket is still DWR (durable water repellent) coated and weighs just seven ounces.
Arc’teryx Norvan SL hoodie
At about four ounces—roughly the weight of four regular-sized letters—Arc’teryx has merged all of its best design features into its unbelievably lightweight rain jacket, the Norvan SL hoodie. It is ideal for trips when you’re really tight on space, or when you know you’ve already overpacked. Made with Gore-Tex ShakeDry material, which eliminates the need for an outer layer of fabric, the technology promises to repel water, even in extreme circumstances.
Made of fabric from six recycled water bottles, the upcycled Madewell Raincheck Packable Popover raincoat lives up to its name. The jacket folds up into a fanny pack that can be worn around the waist or as a cross-body bag—and there’s even room to spare to include a couple of small items inside, so you can strap it on whenever there’s a chance of rain.
Merrell Whisper rain jacket
For rainy day hikes when you know you’re going to sweat, but still need coverage from the elements, Merrell’s Whisper jacket is a great pick. It’s made with a breathable, stretchy material that’s soft against your skin and doesn’t swoosh as you walk, and the hood has a built-in visor to give it more shape, keeping water off your face. Pack it flat in a suitcase or roll it into the left pocket and throw it in your backpack when the skies clear up.
Patagonia Torrentshell City Coat
The trench coat-inspired Patagonia Torrentshell 3L City Coat stretches to the mid-thigh, providing extended coverage for endlessly rainy days. The three-layered shell is made of recycled nylon fabrics with durable waterproof coating, and the brim on the hood ensures raindrops stay off of your nose while roaming through rainy city streets. Plus the jacket—available in black, pumice, and stone blue—was sewn in a Fair Trade Certified program.
Rains Storm Breaker
Danish brand Rains designed this rain jacket for an active lifestyle. The two-way waterproof zipper ensures all-around wind and rain protection, while the cap and adjustable hood and hem offer flexibility to cater to any condition. Order it in black, navy, olive, or gray for a neutral look that blends in with any outfit.
Tumi unisex rain poncho
This hooded Tumi poncho (yes, the same Tumi that makes those sturdy suitcases) can be molded for any need. Caught in a sudden downpour? Pull on its adjustable drawcords. Crave mobility? Pinch together the snaps to create sleeves. Venturing out on a rainy bike ride? Hook the interior straps to the handlebars to keep it in place. Plus, the UPF 50 rating shields you from the sun and the large Velcro pocket makes it easy to stash essentials.
REI Co-op Rainwall jacket
For the little ones, REI Co-op’s Rainwall Jacket offers five kid colors and two toddler colors to choose from, while giving parents peace of mind with a 2.5-layer ripstop nylon shell and three-panel hood to let tykes run free in any weather. Plus, the tricot-lined collar is soft and warm to ward off any whining. For toddlers who really like to make a big splash, the Rainwell line also includes a head-to-toe rainsuit.
