The Best Travel Clothes for Women, Inspired by Katie Holmes, Nicole Kidman, and More Stylish Celebrities

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleFall Travel Clothes for Women That We TestedLong-Sleeve Travel TopsWide-Leg PantsOuterwear for Fall and Winter TravelsCozy Airport Clothes for Fall TravelHow to PackWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

View All

In This Article

Fall Travel Clothes for Women That We Tested

Long-Sleeve Travel Tops

Wide-Leg Pants

Outerwear for Fall and Winter Travels

Cozy Airport Clothes for Fall Travel

How to Pack

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:Getty Images ; Araya Doheny (1) ; Christopher Peterson (1) ; Jose Perez (1)

Getty Images ; Araya Doheny (1) ; Christopher Peterson (1) ; Jose Perez (1)

The struggle of packing a suitcase as the temperatures drop is like none other.Thick sweaters, warm-enough tops, and suitable pants take up twice the space as summer clothing — so, as a travel and style writer, picking the best of the best is crucial to optimizing both my looks and my flights.

Packing for fall and winter weather can be daunting, whether you’re throwing together a duffel for a girls’ weekend orfilling a checked bagfor a multi-month jaunt all over Europe. With less luggage room for “options,” maximalists like myself might be forced to commit to outfits ahead of time (oh, the horror!) which, admittedly, is a lot easier with celebrities likeNicole KidmanandReese Witherspoonproviding seasonal fashion inspiration.

Best Long-Sleeve Travel Tops

Araya Doheny/Getty

Add a moresubstantial sleeve, and you’re likely good to go, especially when considering how to layer up on a frigid day. You can dress abutton-upup or down (as seen onEmma Roberts) and add extra insulation if layering a sweater or coat over it.

Take a cue from the effervescent Nicole Kidman —she rocked a multi-seasonal cozy cardiganin a stylish neutral and paired it with a matching maxi skirt. The lightweight skirt keeps the outfit from feeling too heavy,so you’re not sweating when the thermostat changes; its subtle breeziness is just enough to keep you comfortable. That said, the cardigan is the true staple for fall.

Shop these similar long-sleeve top styles starting at just $24.

$38 at Zappos$38 at Freepeople.com$38 at Bloomingdales

Sizes:XS–XL |Materials:100% US Cotton |Colors:5

PHOTO: People / Cai CramerPHOTO: People / Cai Cramer

Aerie Anytime Fave Flannel ShirtPHOTO: Aerie$60$18 at Ae.com

Aerie Anytime Fave Flannel Shirt

PHOTO: Aerie

$60$18 at Ae.com

Of course, everyone needs a go-to flannel for autumn and winter. The extra weight is just comforting enough to throw on over a T-shirt or blouse (or perhaps don to a backyard bonfire or cider tasting). Cuff buttons make it easy to roll, and oversized pockets feel like a bonus, too.

Sizes:XXS–XL |Materials:100% Cotton |Colors:11

“Layering is crucial for me when I travel, whether I’m on a plane or in a car. This cozy, oversized flannel isn’t too heavy, and it’s super versatile and practical for any kind of outing. I also love the color selection for this particular flannel, because while some feel very fall-forward, others can transition nicely into spring.”—Kayla Kitts, shopping editor

PHOTO: People / Kayla KittsPHOTO: People / Kayla Kitts

Reoria Basic Square Neck BodysuitPHOTO: Amazon$36$15 at Amazon

Reoria Basic Square Neck Bodysuit

PHOTO: Amazon

$36$15 at Amazon

A bodysuit is the way to go for a figure-skimming silhouette that doesn’t require endless tucking-in — especially if you plan to style your top with a skirt like Nicole Kidman does. It won’t bunch up as you move about your day, which is crucial when traveling and walking around a new city. Go timeless with a classic black or striking with a bold red, and act now while it’s 33% off.

Sizes:XS–XXL |Materials:75% nylon, 25% spandex |Colors:12

“I typically don’t wear bodysuits (especially for travel) because of the fuss down there, but this top is so comfortable (and easy to unsnap and snap back) that I made an exception. It’s double-lined so it holds everything in place; I don’t need shapewear. It looks great with jeans, joggers or a skirt, and it’s so sleek it makes layering easy.”—Shalwah Evans, senior shopping editor

PHOTO: People / Shalwah EvansPHOTO: People / Shalwah Evans

Best Wide-Leg Pants

Christopher Peterson / SplashNews

Loose, roomier pants were all the rage during the summer, with celebrities likeJennifer Lawrence,Zendaya, andEmily Bluntall sporting various wide-leg styles. The fall upgrade? Stiffer fabrics like a rich denim or a sleek viscose blend that would look right at home for any occasion (or in any country.) Plus, if you generally find jeans “uncomfortable” but admit they’re ultra-functional, try the wide-leg version. Trust us. They’remucheasier to move in and appreciate.

Katie Holmesoften rocks the wide-leg silhouette in unexpected colorways — like a crisp white even after Labor Day, which looks casual-cool with a simple white T-shirt. Throw on a blazer or lightweight coat from our packing list below, and you’re golden.

Everlane The Way-High Curve JeanPHOTO: Everlane$128 at Everlane.com

Everlane The Way-High Curve Jean

PHOTO: Everlane

$128 at Everlane.com

Everlane nails the basics every time, and these high-waisted jeans are no exception. PEOPLE shopping writer Alyssa Brascia has owned this pair for nine months and says the fit and fabric allow for a roomy shape that’s comfortable for sitting during plane rides and bus trips alike. A curve leg detail that rounds at the ankle makes a subtle statement and helps shape your silhouette — whether you’re dressing for a brisk chill or already in the trenches of layering witha down jacket.

Sizes:23–33, available in lengths 27-inch and 29-inch inseam |Materials:98% Organic Cotton, 2% Elastane |Colors:6

Writers Say“If you’re looking for trendy denim but want to avoid diving headfirst into the barrel jean buzz, this is the perfect (and in my opinion, most timeless) version of this new style. They’re easy to dress up or down and elevate any outfit — not only will these be your new favorite travel jeans, but they’ll be the piece you style with every outfit on that trip, too.”—Alyssa Brascia, shopping writer

Writers Say

“If you’re looking for trendy denim but want to avoid diving headfirst into the barrel jean buzz, this is the perfect (and in my opinion, most timeless) version of this new style. They’re easy to dress up or down and elevate any outfit — not only will these be your new favorite travel jeans, but they’ll be the piece you style with every outfit on that trip, too.”—Alyssa Brascia, shopping writer

PHOTO: People / Alyssa BrasciaPHOTO: People / Alyssa BrasciaPHOTO: People / Alyssa Brascia

Aritzia The Effortless PantPHOTO: AritziaView on Aritzia.com

Aritzia The Effortless Pant

PHOTO: Aritzia

View on Aritzia.com

High-waisted trousers can always come in handy, whether traveling for business or pleasure. Available in three lengths for women of any height (and shoppable in a seriously-impressive roster of other fabrics), these gently structured high-waisted wide leg pants have front-knife pleats, an elegant drape, and fabric that holds its form over time so you don’t have to whip out that portableclothes steamerevery hour, too. (We’ll go to bat for anything wrinkle-free.) Just don’t blame us if you end up owning them in every color offered.

Sizes:00-16, with 4 length options |Materials:Recycled polyester, wood-based viscose |Colors:15

“It’s in the name: effortless. The tailored trousers are loose around your legs for a wide-leg silhouette but fitted at your waist for a sophisticated appearance. The material is fairly wrinkle-resistant, too, so the pants are a good option for packing as well as roaming cobblestone streets abroad.”—Madison Yauger, shopping editor

PHOTO: People / Madison YaugerPHOTO: People / Madison Yauger

Just Black Denim The Palazzo JeanPHOTO: Just Black DenimView on Justblackdenim.com

Just Black Denim The Palazzo Jean

PHOTO: Just Black Denim

View on Justblackdenim.com

This flared jean knows how to command attention. “There’s nothing I love more than a rich, dark blue jean in the fall, and these wide leg jeans from Just Black denim are speaking my language,” says Brascia. “The pants hug your hips and waist in all the right places while keeping things comfortable with its stretch fabric — the perfect recipe for plane rides when you need to jet to your plans right after landing. I’ll be wearing these on repeat throughout all of my autumn travels.”

Sizes:24–31 |Materials:93% Cotton, 5% Polyester, 2% Spandex |Colors:4

PHOTO: People / Alyssa BrasciaPHOTO: People / Alyssa Brascia

Best Outerwear for Fall and Winter Travels

Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

And who can forget the main event? When styling ourselves for the chillier months, a coatserves as a compliment magnet and our saving grace. Our minds flash directly to staple fall films likeWhen Harry Met SallyandSex and the Citywhen picking out our next jacket. (We may or may not be drawing inspo fromCarrie Bradshaw’s fabulous collection of seasonal trenches.)

Opting for the right coat for your comfort level is crucial to maintaining your outfits all year long: light, heavy, minimalist, statement, long, short, you name it. Make the correct choice, and you’re set.

Uniqlo Utility Short JacketPHOTO: UniqloView on Uniqlo.com

Uniqlo Utility Short Jacket

PHOTO: Uniqlo

View on Uniqlo.com

Realistically, if you’re traveling for a long stint, you may not have room on your person or in your luggage to bring more than one or two coats at a time — so picking a versatile “everyday” jacket is important. Don’t make the mistake of only bringing a formal jacket that can look out of place when you’re dressed down: This short Uniqlo style goes with everything for under $70. (Technically, it’s in men’s sizes, but it’s designed as a unisex style — and is an excellent choice for throwing on over bulkier layers, too.)

Sizes:XXS–3XL |Materials:100% Cotton Shell, 100% Polyester Sleeves |Colors:3

Writers Say“I just picked up this coat after browsing around the Uniqlo store, and I can’t wait until the weather turns cold enough for me to wear it every day (because, trust me, this will be my everyday coat). It’s perfectly lightweight for those transitional weather months, and I prefer the cut-off length to the longer trench coat when I’m wearing something more casual.”—Cai Cramer, shopping writer

“I just picked up this coat after browsing around the Uniqlo store, and I can’t wait until the weather turns cold enough for me to wear it every day (because, trust me, this will be my everyday coat). It’s perfectly lightweight for those transitional weather months, and I prefer the cut-off length to the longer trench coat when I’m wearing something more casual.”—Cai Cramer, shopping writer

Arthas Women’s Light Rain JacketPHOTO: Amazon$40 at Amazon

Arthas Women’s Light Rain Jacket

$40 at Amazon

One of the worst parts of fall and winter is when it startsrainingbut notsnowing— and you’re trudging through the cold and wet on your commute. And rain jackets have a tendency to look, well, useful but not exactly inspiring. PEOPLE shopping editorKayla Kittshas the solution for you: this Amazon pick she’s owned for an impressive three and a half years already.

“Packing a lightweight rain jacket is an often-forgotten travel essential when you plan to spend days outside exploring,” she points out. “This affordable one from Amazon is waterproof and has an adjustable waist for the perfect fit. I love that it keeps me warm and dry without overheating. And it can be rolled up into a suitcase with ease.”

Sizes:S–XXL |Materials:Outer layer: 98% polyester spandex. Inner: 2% linen lining. |Colors:8

Orolay Long Windbreaker Hooded Light JacketPHOTO: Amazon$100$70 at Amazon

Orolay Long Windbreaker Hooded Light Jacket

$100$70 at Amazon

The best coats are those that last you for years (and perhaps generations), so some of our favorites are tragically discontinued. Still, as professional product testers, the PEOPLE team knows what to look for in the best of the modern age, and shopping editor Madison Yauger highlights her favorite qualities in this Amazon pick. “I have a Michael Kors trench coat that has served me for almost a decade of travel, and though it’s discontinued now, I think this Amazon find has many of the same qualities. They’re both machine washable, rain-resistant, easy to pack, and stylish!”

Sizes:S–XL |Materials:90% polyester, 10% elastane |Colors:3

Zara Corduroy Collar Waxed JacketPHOTO: ZaraView on Zara.com

Zara Corduroy Collar Waxed Jacket

PHOTO: Zara

View on Zara.com

Sidebar: I was recently stranded abroad when hurricanes made it impossible to get home. I’d been in France for a wedding, was headed to Scotland the week after, and had planned on swapping out my suitcase for chillier weather. Suddenly, I just had end-of-summer clothes and a literal ballgown in my backpack to work with; I needed a good layer, and I needed it fast.

I ended up finding and living in this barn jacket, which fit my preferred aesthetic and price. I wore it to dinners at luxe five-star hotelCameron House on Loch Lomond, but also appreciated that it was rugged enough to withstand the elements during outdoor activities like falconry, offroading, and wandering the towns of the Scottish Highlands.

Best of all, the oversized pockets fit absolutely everything I wanted with me for the entire day: cameras, chapstick, and wallet. It sells out fast, so be sure to snag it if you see it in your size. I also loved the way it looked with a stompy pair ofrain boots, and you can even buythe long version, too.

Sizes:XS–XXL |Materials:60% Cotton, 40% Polyester; 100% Polyurethane Coating |Colors:1

PHOTO: People / Grace SmithPHOTO: People / Grace Smith

The Best Cozy Airport Clothes for Fall Travel

Gotham/GC Images

Of course, we have our Instagram snaps in mind when packing for a trip, whether short or extensive — but don’t neglect your comfort when physically in transit, either. Sure, we’re a long way from the days of formal dressing for the airplane, but take a cue from celebrities and opt for comfy clothes that still look polished. Just add abelt bag like Sydney Sweeneyfor easy access, and maybesome platform Uggs like Gigi Hadidfor ultimate comfort and utility.

Especially if you’re landing early from a redeye in a new time zone, you might be using a full day to explore without access to your hotel room or other clothes — or rolling straight into a meeting in which you should probably look a little more put-together than you feel. If you won’t have access to laundry while on your travels, it’s also important to pick materials and items that you can wear on the way back without feeling gross.

Spanx AirEssentials Half ZipPHOTO: Spanx$118$80 at Nordstrom$118 at Spanx$89 at Bloomingdales

Spanx AirEssentials Half Zip

PHOTO: Spanx

$118$80 at Nordstrom$118 at Spanx$89 at Bloomingdales

In that frigid plane AC, your sweatshirt is your new BFF, especially if you plan to use it as a balled-up pillow at any point. “I have worn the AirEssentials set on countless airport trips and the buttery-smooth material is ideal for long flights,” recommends Yauger, who’s owned the set for two years. “It’s also wrinkle-resistant so you can ball it up in your carry-on bag when you arrive at your destination and wear it again on the way home sans any wrinkles. This set — the quarter-zip andwide-leg sweats— is incredibly comfortable, durable, and ideal for travel.” And how sleek is that oversized collar?

Sizes:XS–3XL |Materials:47% Tencel™ Modal, 46% Polyester, 7% Elastane |Colors:15

PHOTO: People / Madison AugerPHOTO: People / Alyssa Brascia

Chico’s Travelers Tie Waist JumpsuitPHOTO: Chico’sView on Chicos.com

Chico’s Travelers Tie Waist Jumpsuit

PHOTO: Chico’s

View on Chicos.com

Sometimes, mother knows best, and PEOPLE associate editorial shopping directorErin Johnsontook a cue from her own mom’s travel style when traveling for business and pleasure. “My mom’s Chicos Traveler Pants were a wardrobe staple growing up, and now I see what all the fuss is about,” she says. ”This Traveler jumpsuit is chic, cozy, and impossible to wrinkle. It’s my go-to for plane rides or long car rides where I know I need to look presentable once I get to my destination.”

Sizes:00–22, with petite and regular lengths |Materials:96% acetate, 4% elastane |Colors:1

PHOTO: People / Erin JohnsonPHOTO: People / Erin Johnson

PHOTO: Anthropologie

$88 at Anthropologie

These wrinkle-free pants are my personal go-to no matter the season. I wear them to work in, to work out in, and to casual gatherings and nights out with friends. Most crucially, I wear them every single time I pass through an airport. They’re incredibly comfortable, lightweight (I tend to overheat on travel days), and adaptable, with plenty of pockets for easy ID and passport access.

I’ve bought them in multiple colors, from neutrals to bolds. I also love their billowing feel when layered with a chunky sweater or coat, as the contrast in textures seems to make my outfits more dynamic. Plus, I can wear them on a day with surprisingly good weather! Truly the all-season essential for me.

Sizes:XXS–3X plus petite sizing |Materials:Nylon |Colors:9

How to Pack the Best Travel Clothes

When building your travel wardrobe, you’ll want to consider factors like trip duration, climate, and more. Do you want year-round items or would you rather commit to rotating your staples seasonally? Will you have access to laundry? (If not, you’ll want to opt for fabrics that wick away odor and sweat so you can get multiple wears out of each item.) Are there sights or situations that have etiquette requirements and dress codes requiring a certain amount of coverage?

And don’t forget thepacking cubesand travel organizers to get the most space out of yourcarry-on suitcase, either.

Grace Smithis a fashion and travel writer who, as a frequent hotel reviewer, spends as much time as possible floating through various destinations. Long flights (and the resulting OOTDs) are very much her forte. She extensively combed through shopper reviews, expert commentary, and celebrity insights for the top travel clothing items. Looking at the most popular brands and keeping her own globe-trotting experience in mind, Grace curated this list of the best travel clothes for women to pack for all of your 2024 destinations.

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com