Every fall getaway calls for at least one reliable jacket on your packing list. Thick puffers and heavy coats can take up a ton of precious suitcase space and add extra weight, making them a less-than-ideal option—that’s where a trusty packable jacket comes in. The best styles keep you warm and dry without the bulk, so you won’t feel guilty about tossing them in your carry-on just in case. That extra layer will come in handy on a colder-than-expected camping trip or when that “small chance of rain” forecast turns into a downpour.
Fortunately for travelers, there are plenty of lightweight jackets on the market that will still keep you warm, whether you’re hitting the slopes, the trails, or just cozying up by your Airbnb’s fireplace. We rounded up our top picks, from seam-sealed rain jackets and cozy fleece pullovers to insulated puffers that can stand up to cold temperatures. (Bonus points if they can pack down into their own pockets.) Read on for 20 packable jackets that are lightweight, ultra-warm, and versatile enough for most any fall adventure.
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This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Megan Spurrell.
Puffer jackets
Patagonia Nano Puff jacket
As far as trustworthy jackets go, you can’t go wrong with the Patagonia Nano Puff. Available in both men’s and women’s sizes, this year-round essential is windproof, water-resistant, and wrapped in a 100 percent recycled polyester shell and lining. Made of highly compressible PrimaLoft insulation, this ultra-lightweight jacket packs up tightly in any carry-on. It also features two zippered hand warmer pockets and an adjustable drop-tail hem to seal in extra warmth.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes 2XS–2XL; men’s sizes XS–3XL
Fjällräven Expedition Lätt hoodie
The best packable jackets have a high ratio of warmth to size-when-packed—and this hooded puffer from Fjällräven deserves top marks for just that. Made of a slinky, lightweight fabric (and stuffed with 100 percent recycled materials), this jacket takes up minimal space when packed into its own pocket, yet serves as a substantial insulating or primary layer.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes 2XS–XL; men’s sizes XS–2XL
Aritzia The Little Puff
Sleek, well-insulated jackets from Aritizia, like The Super Puff, went viral for being just as stylish as they are warm. The Little Puff is a more packable and lightweight version of the popular jacket and is perfect for travel. Constructed with responsibly sourced goose down, The Little Puff is wind-resistant and water-repellent, keeping you warm without overheating. Its fitted enough to be layered underneath heavier coats or can be worn on its own. And like all the best lightweight jackets, it packs down into its own pocket. (It’s also available in a vest and mid-length version.)
Sizes available: Women’s sizes 2XS–XL
The North Face Aconcagua 3 hoodie
For all the warmth of a true puffer without the extreme bulk, pack the Aconcagua 3 hoodie from The North Face on your next cold-weather adventure. Its recycled polyester sheet insulation will keep you warm even if you get caught in the rain and its zippered hand warmer pockets will definitely come in handy the next time it snows. As with everything at The North Face, it has a lifetime warranty.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes XS–3XL; men’s sizes S–2XL
FP Movement Pippa packable puffer jacket
Don’t be fooled by how lightweight this boxy puffer from FP Movement looks—it features PrimaLoft insulation to keep you warm and dry. It’s also water-resistant and has snap-tab cuffs to lock in extra warmth. We also love that it packs into its own pocket and is ultra-soft.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes XS–XL
Rain jackets
Patagonia Outdoor Everyday rain jacket
Every traveler needs a reliable rain jacket in their wardrobe. This waterproof jacket is perfect for outdoor adventures, and comes highly recommended by Traveler’s global digital director Arati Menon after wearing it nonstop on a rainy and windy trip to Fogo Island. She loves its slightly oversized fit, offering enough room for layering a shirt and sweater underneath. It’s made from recycled fishing nets to help reduce ocean plastic pollution—a major plus in our books. More pros: It’s easy to fold up and pack, features an internal chest pocket, and the hood never falls off.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes XS–2XL
REI Co-op Rainier rain jacket
This one is great for more adventurous trips. At under 10 ounces, it’s ultra-lightweight and can be packed into nearly any bag you’re bringing (it folds up into its own pocket). You’ll be well-protected from any rain and extreme wind, thanks to its water-repellent finish and nylon material that can handle winds up to 60 MPH. Stash any large essentials like an umbrella in either of the two internal drop-in pockets and small items like your phone and wallet in the two zippered hand pockets.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes XS–3X; men’s sizes S–3XL, plus tall sizes
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L rain jacket
A simple yet sleek option for travelers to wear everywhere is the Torrentshell 3L rain jacket. It packs up to fit in its front pocket—taking up little space in your carry-on, so you don’t need to feel guilty about throwing it in your suitcase last minute for those “what if” scenarios. This breathable, light-as-air rain jacket is completely waterproof and is made to last for years. It also features a two-way-adjustable hood and a micro-fleece-lined neck to provide a comfortable waterproof yet breathable barrier.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes XS–2XL; men’s sizes XS–3XL
Cotopaxi Cielo rain jacket
For something a little more fun, you can’t go wrong with Cotopaxi’s rain jacket that features the brand’s signature colorblocking pattern. The retro-inspired jacket is made with fully waterproof fabric and full seam taping to keep rain out. Breathable and easy to pack, this colorful option is a safe bet.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes 2XS–4XL; men’s sizes XS–3XL
Vuori Oahu rain jacket
Our editors swear by athleisure from Vuori, a sustainable brand prioritizing ethically made, high-quality performance clothing. Made of an 100 percent recycled polyester shell, the Oahu rain jacket delivers completely seam-sealed waterproof protection. It features a duckbill hood, power mesh lining, and a durable coating designed to withstand heavy rain. Fold it up tightly in your carry-on just in case.
Sizes available: Men’s sizes S–2XL
FP Movement Singin’ In The Rain packable jacket
Designed with breathable fabric and a sweat-wicking mesh interior, this extra-long jacket keeps you protected on rainy days spent hiking or camping. It’s pretty lightweight, meaning it’s more ideal for an early fall day or when you’re working up a sweat on the trails. Our favorite thing about this waterproof jacket (besides how good it looks) is that it packs down into its back pocket.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes XS–XL
Fleece jackets
Patagonia Classic Retro-X fleece jacket
I’m currently eyeing this retro-inspired zip-up from Patagonia. Not only does it look cute and cozy, it’s windproof and made with heat-trapping fleece. It offers front zippered pockets, a chest pocket, and a high neck, so you’re still covered if you forget to pack a scarf. It’s pretty fitted, so it would be best suited as a base layer with a bigger coat over it on colder days.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes XS–XL; men’s sizes S–2XL
Outdoor Voices MegaFleece full-zip
This slightly oversized zip-up from Outdoor Voices offers a roomy fit and all the coziness you need on a cold day outdoors. Made with naturally thermoregulating wool, the jacket will keep you warm without getting too hot. Enjoy features like the zippered pocket for our phone, large side pockets, a reinforced collar to protect your neck, and an ultra-soft feel.
L.L.Bean Beans’ Sherpa fleece jacket
L.L.Bean’s sherpa fleece jacket offers major cozy-up-around-the-campfire vibes. It’s casual enough to wear around the hotel or for outdoor adventures when you want something warm, soft, and reliable. The taffeta lined sleeves and slightly fitted design make it all the more comfortable. It’s available in plenty of fall-friendly colors and in regular, petite, and plus sizes.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes 2XS–XL, plus petite and plus sizes
Columbia Steen’s Mountain 2.0 fleece jacket
A lightweight, packable staple for winter trips is the Columbia Steens Mountain fleece jacket that has over 35,000 reviews and 4.7 stars on Amazon. The collared neck and zippered closure help lock in heat and keep you protected on extra cold day trips. Whether you’re heading on a winter ski trip or planning a cabin getaway, you’ll be grateful to have this essential layering piece handy.
Sizes available: Men’s sizes S–6XL, plus tall options
Aritzia Tna Polartec Thermal Pro zip-up
Artitzia’s fuzzy mockneck zip-up proves you don’t have to sacrifice style to stay warm. Chic and cozy, it’s made of a thermal fleece with a sherpa texture for added warmth. It’s very breathable, meaning you can easily layer a sweater underneath or a bulkier coat over it without overheating. It’s available in a few different neutral colors, including classic black, a mocha brown, gray, navy, and beige.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes 2XS–2XL.
Quilted jackets
Everlane The Quilted Liner
Quilted jackets are a great option for travelers—they’re usually very lightweight, layer well with other outerwear, and because they’re not too warm of a jacket, they remain a staple almost year-round. We love this one from Everlane that can be worn over a turtleneck during the fall and underneath a wool coat come winter. It’s sustainably made, features handy side pockets, and is available in a few different colors, from navy and black to olive green and a mustard shade of yellow.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes 2XS–XL
Quince featherless quilted puffer jacket
This affordable option from Quince offers a high collar and insulation to keep you warm on chilly days. Despite providing decent insulation for a quilted jacket, this puffer isn’t bulky at all. We also appreciate that it features a water-repellent finish and deep front pockets. Plus, it’s made of 100 percent recycled materials.
Sizes available: Women’s sizes XS–XL; men’s sizes S–2XL
Barbour Embleton quilted jacket
Barbour is known for its quality jackets and this quilted number doesn’t disappoint. Smart features like a adjustable toggles on the hem and snap closures over the zipper help lock in extra warmth. Not only is this jacket practical for outdoor adventures, it just looks good—offering a polished and sophisticated style.
Sizes available: Men’s sizes S–2XL
Uniqlo Pufftech quilted jacket
This light-as-air jacket from Uniqlo is so versatile—wear it sightseeing, hiking, or walking your dog. It’s water-repellent and made with the brand’s Pufftech material, which offers a lightweight yet warm padding. Its relaxed cut means you can layer bulky sweaters or sweatshirts underneath easily.
Sizes available: Men’s sizes 2XS–3XL
