Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2026
Comfortable, packable, and versatile pants for long flights, casual city wear, and hikes while traveling
Mountain Hardwear Dynama Convertible Utility Joggers at Death Valley. Photo courtesy Simone Williams.
July 19, 2026
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Travel pants are a versatile and essential piece of clothing for trips, whether you’re vacationing, road tripping, adventuring, shopping, or walking around a city. A bad pair of travel pants can ruin a trip. Imagine if your phone slips out of your pocket on the shuttle because it’s too shallow, they wrinkle immediately when you sit down on the plane, or they are so niche that you can’t wear them for other occasions on a trip.
Travel pants differ from hiking pants or traditional chinos in that they are lightweight, packable, quick-drying, multifunctional, and have technical features conducive to the rigors of a long travel day. Whether you’re traveling by plane, car, train, or bus, a solid pair of travel pants can take some of the stress out of packing and moving around during your travel day. They can also be dressed up or down when you arrive at your destination, which saves space in your suitcase, since your travel pants can serve multiple purposes.
We tested these pants by literally traveling in each of them! Seven of the nine pants were tested on flights, including the busy transitions from parking at the airport to flight check-in, layovers, walking through terminals, rental car pickup, car-share rides, and some extended drives. We wore them in a variety of weather conditions and temperatures around the US, including rain, to fully test their functionality by putting them through real scenarios. We evaluated fit during extended wear, pocket usability, comfort, quick-dry capabilities, versatility, and how each pair held up after washing.
After rigorous testing, the best overall Travel Pants are the Kuhl Trekr Straight Pant ($109). These pants come in a variety of lengths, one of the few that had a “long” option and for someone who is 5’ 8” or above (like the author is) that was an important feature. The Kuhl Trekr Straight has six pockets, and along with its wrinkle resistance and versatility, these features make it the standout winner.
It was a challenge to find the best overall since many of the pants had features we loved, but lacked features that another pair had. Here are the other category winners to help you find the travel pants that best fit your travel personality!
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Comparison table
| Travel Pants | Treeline Award | Sizes | Inseams | Waist band | Rise | Pockets | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KÜHL Trekr Straight Pull-On Pant | Best Overall Read why |
XS-XL | 28, 30, 32, 34" | Stretch (also made in button version) | High | 6 | $109 |
| REI Co-op Traimade Relaxed Pants | Best Affordable Read why |
XS-3X | 29" | Stretch | Mid | 5 | $80 |
| Vuori Villa Wideleg Pant | Best for Long Flights Read why |
XXS-XXL | 28.5, 31, 33" | Stretch | High | 2 | $128 |
| Cotopaxi Cambio Jogger | Best with Hidden Pockets Read why |
XS-XL | 29" | Stretch | Mid | 3 | $95 |
| REI Co-op Traimade Relaxed Pants | Best Lightweight Read why |
XS-3X | 29" | Stretch | Mid | 5 | $80 |
| Patagonia Garden Island Pants | Best Capri Pants Read why |
XS-XL | 25.5" | Stretch | Mid | 4 | $99 |
| Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off Pant | Best Convertible Read why |
XS-XL | 29" (4" shorts) | Stretch | High | 4 | $125 |
| Mountain Hardwear Dynama Convertible Pant | Best for Warm Weather Read why |
XXS-XL | (8" shorts) | Stretch | Mid | 4 | $135 |
| KÜHL Freeflex Roll-Up Pant | Best Smart-Casual Read why |
0-16 | 28, 30, 32, 34" | Button | Mid | 6 | $109 |
The winners
Best overall: KÜHL Trekr Straight Pant
Price: $109
Sizes: XS-XL
Inseam options: Extra short 28", short 30", regular 32", long 34"
Fit: Straight, high-waisted/high rise
Fabric: Polyester, nylon (abrasion resistant)
Weight: 12.8 oz for size medium
Pockets: Two front and two back pockets, two thigh cargo pockets secured with hidden snaps
Hidden pocket: No
Waistband: Pull-on rib knit waistband and external drawcord
Gusseted crotch: No
DWR coating: No
Quick-dry: Yes
Wrinkle-resistant: Yes
Machine washable: Yes
Ankle Cuff/Fit: Hem bungee for versatility in style
UPF?: Yes, UPF 50+
Stretch Scale (0-5): 4
2-way or 4-way stretch: 2-way
What we liked: Versatility, stretch, length, and quality of material
What we didn't like: The front pockets are a bit too shallow, so our phone didn’t feel 100% secure when we were sitting; the 2 cargo pockets are a tight fit for a phone with a wallet case
Bodies come in so many shapes and sizes, so it was a breath of fresh air that the Kuhl Trekr Straight Pants are available in a variety of sizes and lengths. Versatility in sizing and length is an important feature in travel pants, especially when people’s bodies shift and move during travel and activity.
KÜHL Trekr Straight Pant
Kuhl Trekr Straight (Pull on Pant)—our best overall pick for women.
The Kuhl Trekr Straight has two medium-depth front pockets, two thigh pockets secured with a hidden snap, and two rear pockets. The two front pockets could be a little deeper, and the cargo pockets a little wider, to securely hold a larger phone, especially if it has a wallet case. If Kuhl fixed this feature on future models, these pants would be perfect!
The reason we awarded them best overall, despite the pockets, is their other features, including their length (we tested a women’s Medium Long), wrinkle resistance, and versatility. The polyester/nylon blend material looks and feels high-quality, and the raisin color we tested could be elevated to wear for a dressier occasion easily. In fact, we wore them to meet with a client at a conference to do some initial setup, and they were the perfect casual-but-professional look for both working and networking.
We also would have felt comfortable wearing these on a hike or through a city. We’ve worn them to walk dogs, and they are abrasion-resistant and hold up to rough wear, kneeling on the ground, and pulling things in and out of the pockets. The ankle cuffs have an adjustable hem bungee so their look can be customized, and the easy pull-on waistband with exterior elastic drawstring cord makes them comfortable when sitting, standing, or walking. These are going to be a staple in our closet for not only domestic travel, but also car camping, international trips, and even casual wear.
Best affordable travel pants: REI Co-op Trailmade Relaxed
Price: $80
Sizes: XS to 3X
Inseam options: 29” only
Fit: Relaxed/Jogger
Fabric: 96% nylon/4% spandex (bluesign approved)
Weight: 8 oz
Pockets: 2 large, deep front hand pockets, 2 front thigh cargo pockets, 1 back zipper security pocket, 1 sunglass/utility loop provides a place to hang your shades
Hidden pocket: No
Waistband: Elastic with external toggle drawcord
Gusseted crotch: No
DWR coating: Yes (made without PFAS, helps moisture bead up on the surface)
Quick-dry: Yes
Wrinkle-resistant: Yes
Adjustable ankle Cuff: No
UPF?: Yes, UPF 50+
Stretch Scale (0-5): 3
2-way or 4-way stretch: 2-way
What we liked: Deep front pockets, functional thigh cargo pockets, loose and comfortable fit
What we didn't like: The ankle cuff was not adjustable and hung loosely; no other pant lengths were available, and these were short when we sat down
The pictures online don’t do the REI Co-op Trailmade Relaxed pants justice. In fact, we almost didn’t test them because of it! We’re glad we gave them a try anyway and were pleasantly surprised at how well they fit and how comfortable they were, given their price. It didn’t feel like we were losing anything because they were less expensive than many of the others we tested, and honestly, it made us realize how overpriced the other pants likely were. More than half of the pants should not have been more expensive than these, given their features.
REI Co-op Trailmade Relaxed
REI Co-op Trailmade Relaxed—our best affordable pick for women.
The color we tested, Terra Red, is a nice shade in person and can be matched with a variety of tops and shoes, which makes it versatile to have when traveling. We ended up testing these when it was raining in Columbus, OH, and they stood up well to the inclement weather, dried quickly, and were not so thin that they didn’t provide protection against the cold and wind.
Although the elastic cuff was loose at the bottom, it didn't bother us, and you couldn’t really tell the elastic was hanging looser than on a typical jogger. The deep front pockets were a great feature, and we never had to think twice about our phone or other items slipping out when seated or moving around.
They were still a bit short when we sat down or crossed our legs while sitting down. If they came in a longer version and the elastic ankle cuff was adjustable with a hem bungee that didn’t add much weight, or a stretchier elastic cuff, these would have been the overall winners.
Best travel pants for long flights: Vuori Villa Wideleg
Price: $128
Sizes: XXS-XXL
Inseam options: Short- 28.5", regular- 31", long- 33"
Fit: Wide leg/relaxed
Fabric: 45% recycled polyester, 41% polyester, 14% elastane
Features: Performance stretch, moisture wicking
Weight: 9.6 oz
Pockets: 2 hand pockets
Hidden pocket: No
Waistband: Elastic
Gusseted crotch: No
DWR coating: No
Quick-dry: Yes
Wrinkle-resistant: Yes
Machine washable: Yes
Adjustable Ankle Cuff: No
UPF?: No
Stretch Scale (0-5): 5
2-way or 4-way stretch: 4-way
What we liked: Different lengths available, loose fitting, soft, lightweight, and wrinkle-resistant
What we didn't like: Lack of technical features like adjustable waistband, adjustable ankle cuff, deep pockets, additional thigh or rear pockets; limited colors available
The Vuori Villa Wideleg passed the “deplaned and went straight to running errands” test!
We wore these on a 6+hour flight from LAX-BWI and went straight to grocery shopping at Costco with no issues. That’s over 8 hours of sitting at the gate, on the plane, and in the car to get to our final destination. The waistband didn’t dig in at all!
Vuori Villa Wideleg
Vuori Villa Wide-Leg Long—our best long flight pick for women.
What made this pair specifically comfortable for extended sitting was the lack of bulky seams, the lightweight, breathable material, and the elastic waistband and fabric, which had lots of stretch.
They were long enough to cover our ankles during the flight. The fabric didn’t wrinkle, there are no bulky seams or hardware, and they are thin and stretchy enough to be packable. They also look like resort wear, which is a slightly more elevated look vs. sweatpants or other more technical-looking cargo, chino, or travel pants.
The Vuori Villa Wideleg pants were very comfortable on the plane, but they were so thin that the air blew right through to our legs, and they did not keep us warm during the flight. Yes, they were wide and loose enough to layer something underneath, but that defeats the purpose of having travel pants that are versatile on their own. We felt that these would really only be practical for resort wear, casual wear, or for a long-haul flight or long road trip, where you don’t need many technical features, and your priority is comfort above all.
We would not recommend hiking in these because they are too thin, and the wide leg could catch on plants, trees, etc. They only have two shallow front pockets, and our phone did, in fact, slip out of the pocket when we were sitting at the gate. We wouldn’t use these as our regular travel pants unless we were going to change into them for a long flight (over 8 hours), but we can suggest taking them on a trip where you wanted a comfy pair of pants for lounging, shopping, a swim cover-up, or just being casual.
Best travel pants with hidden pockets: Cotopaxi Cambio Jogger
Price: $95
Sizes: XS-XL
Inseam options: 29” only
Fit: Relaxed fit
Fabric: 86% recycled polyester, 14% spandex (125gsm), anti-static
Weight: 9.6 oz
Pockets: 2 front hand pockets, 1 zippered hidden pocket inside front pocket
Hidden pocket: Yes
Waistband: Elastic waistband with internal drawcord
Gusseted crotch: No
DWR coating: Yes
Quick-dry: No (but could be based on the material)
Wrinkle-resistant: Yes
Machine washable: Yes
Ankle Cuff/Fit: Ribbed ankle cuff not adjustable
UPF?: Yes UPF 50+
Stretch Scale (0-5): 4
2-way or 4-way stretch: 4-way
What we liked: Hidden pocket, the material was comfortable, soft, and very stretchy, and it’s functional across different occasions
What we didn't like: Length is short when sitting down, limited length options, only two front pockets, pocket is not secure
We loved how the Cotopaxi Cambio Jogger looked and felt. They were soft, comfortable, stretchy, and high-quality, and the color was a beautiful deep navy blue (Maritime) that could easily be dressed up or down. These are versatile and could be used for hiking or other adventure activities in addition to going to a casual dinner or walking around a city.
Cotopaxi Cambio Jogger
Cotopaxi Cambio Jogger—our best hidden pocket pick for women.
While standing or walking, the length is good, but the moment we sit down, the cuffs ride up, and then we have to pull them down when we stand up again. For anyone over 5’ 7”, these may feel a bit short as they did for us. Like several of the other contenders, these were short when sitting down. Unfortunately, there are no other length options. For plane travel, we like to have our ankles covered because A) it’s cold on the plane and B) our tester wears compression stockings and would prefer to have their legs covered.
The bottoms of the ankles are thick, ribbed elastic cuffs. We like that there was a lot of stretch, so that when we were sitting down on the plane or in the rental car or train, it didn’t pull uncomfortably across our hips.
There are two front slant pockets that are deep enough for a phone, however they are at an angle, so when you sit down, your phone may slip out of your pocket. They weren’t secure or deep enough to prevent this, so we had to stay alert and keep our hands on our phones at all times. There are no pockets on the thighs or rear.
It has a true hidden pocket inside the right front pocket that isn't obvious when worn. However, it’s a very small pocket. It would not be large enough for a passport or phone, and was more suited to holding an ID, credit card, and some cash.
Best lightweight travel pants: REI Co-op Trailmade Relaxed
Price: $80
Sizes: XS to 3X
Inseam options: 29” only
Fit: Relaxed/jogger
Fabric: 96% nylon/4% spandex stretch fabric (bluesign approved)
Weight: 8 oz
Pockets: 2 large, deep front hand pockets, 2 front thigh cargo pockets, 1 back zipper security pocket, 1 sunglass/utility loop
Hidden pocket: No
Waistband: Elastic with external toggle drawcord
Gusseted crotch: No
DWR coating: Yes (made without PFAS, helps moisture bead up on the surface)
Quick-dry: Yes
Wrinkle-resistant: Yes
Adjustable ankle cuff: No
UPF?: Yes, UPF 50+
Stretch Scale (0-5): 3
2-way or 4-way stretch: 2-way
What we liked: Very lightweight (the lightest of all tested pants at 8 oz), packability, resistance to wrinkles even when packed for days, lots of pockets
What we didn't like: Ankle cuffs were not adjustable and hung loosely, no other pant lengths were available, and these were short when we sat down
Yes, these were already awarded best affordable travel pants, but as the lightest of all the pants we tested, they are also winning for best lightweight travel pants.
REI Co-op Trailmade Relaxed
REI Co-op Trailmade Relaxed—our best lightweight pick for women.
We packed these to test on the return trip of a 7-day cross-country trip (CA-WA-TX-OH-CA), so they were rolled into a packing cube that sat in our bag for several days until it was time to wear them. They took up almost no space, which was important when we had to pack several outfits for the different events we were attending. When we took them out to wear on the last day, they were barely wrinkled, and once we shook out the pants, most of the wrinkles fell out.
These pants were packable and folded down easily to take up a minimal amount of space. The material felt substantial and not flimsy. The lightweight construction didn’t come at the cost of durability, based on the flight and travel we tested these pants on. Based on their performance, we think they will withstand rough use and resist snags. When folded and packed down into a square, it measures: 8” x 8” x 2”. We rolled ours to take up even less space in our suitcase.
Our best lightweight pick packs down small enough to fit in a packing cube alongside other gear.
Best capri pants for travel: Patagonia Garden Island Pants
Price: $99
Sizes: XS-XL
Inseam options: 25½"
Fit: Relaxed fit, straight, wide pant legs
Fabric: 55% hemp/45% TENCEL™ lyocell
Weight: 9.3 oz
Pockets: Two side-seam front pockets and two drop-in back pockets
Hidden pocket: No
Waistband: Elasticized waistband
Gusseted crotch: No
DWR coating: No
Quick-dry: No
Wrinkle-resistant: No
Machine washable: Yes
Ankle Cuff/Fit: No cuff, wide leg capri
UPF?: No
Stretch (0-5): 0
2-way or 4-way stretch: None
What we liked: Lightweight, breathable, deep front pockets for a phone
What we didn't like: No stretch
Although these are a bit long to be considered true capris, the Patagonia Garden Island Pants are still the best capri pants for traveling, since their length is intentionally calf-length and isn’t adjustable. We were unsure how we’d like them since there’s no stretch, but the mediums fit us well. They did pull slightly across the hips, so if you’re between sizes, we’d suggest sizing up.
Patagonia Garden Island Pants
Patagonia Garden Island Pants— our best capri pick for women.
We wore the Patagonia Garden Island Pants on a 4.5-hour road trip to go camping, and they were extremely comfortable. It was in the 70s when we left, and we were driving through parts of California where it was 90+ degrees. When we made a pit stop at a restaurant, we were surprised at how breathable they were in such hot temps, even though they reached our lower calves, and we’d usually be in shorts in those temps.
The waistband was comfortable while driving, and we had some freedom of movement in the loose material, despite the lack of any stretch. When we got to the campsite, we wore them to set everything up and then to pitch our tent. We kept them on until after dinner, when it got chilly in the evening, and liked that we could move around with our phone in our pocket and not worry about it falling out.
The cropped length looks intentional, and there is a notched cutout along the bottom hem to add a bit of style to the pants. These would work in warm-to-slightly-cool destinations (a cool night after a warm day), but the material is too thin, and they are too short for truly cold temps. We also wouldn’t wear them on the plane because the flights are cold and our ankles would be exposed. They didn’t wrinkle much during the long drive, and they looked polished when we got out.
The Patagonia Garden Island Pants are strictly in the travel/casual category. We would consider these for a short, non-technical, easy day hike on a paved or groomed road with little to no elevation gain. The material isn’t abrasion-proof, and there aren’t any technical hiking features such as waterproofing/DWR, stretch, or thigh pockets for a longer or more technical hike. The two pockets on the back are so shallow that they seem more suited to style than function.
These are better suited for a walk around a city, relaxing after a long travel day, road trip, or lounging. After a wash and hang dry, they were extremely wrinkled. After shaking them out when fully dry, some of the wrinkles did fall out, but the rest would need an iron to take out.
Best convertible travel pants: Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off
Price: $125
Sizes: XS-XL
Inseam options: 29” pants, 4” shorts
Fit: Relaxed, wide leg
Fabric: 92% recycled polyester, 8% elastane (150gsm)
Weight: 14.4oz
Pockets: 4 (2 drop-in hand pockets & 2 cargo pockets)
Hidden pocket: No
Waistband: Elastic pull-on
Gusseted crotch: No
DWR coating: Yes
Quick-dry: Yes
Wrinkle-resistant: Yes
Machine washable: Yes
Zip Off: 1 above the knee
Ankle Cuff/Fit: Adjustable bungee hem or wide leg
UPF?: Yes, UPF 50+
Stretch Scale (0-5): 3
2-way or 4-way stretch: 4-way
What we liked: Great colorway, pull-on elastic waistband, color-coded zippers on the zip-off legs with built-in carabiner and pocket to stuff the legs, two deep front pockets, and two cargo pockets
What we didn't like: They were too short in the legs for anyone over 5’ 6” and no other length options were available
The Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off pants were one of the most versatile pants on the list and could easily go from a flight or road trip to being used for a hike or exploring a city. They can be used for any kind of adventure or outing in hot or cold weather because they can be worn in several ways and look great as pants or shorts. As pants, they are wide-leg with an adjustable bungee cord at the bottom cuff so they can be worn like joggers or with the straight-leg look.
Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off
Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off—our best convertible pick.
They can be converted to shorts by zipping off the legs above the knee, which then fit into their own pocket (the cargo pocket turned inside out) and are clipped to the attached carabiner on the side of the pants! The zippers for the legs are color-coded, so it’s easy to reattach them.
The shorts, when unzipped from the pants, are a great length that hits a bit below mid-thigh and were loose enough on our tester’s athletic legs that we didn’t feel constricted. We noticed online reviews mentioning that the zippers irritated their legs, but they didn’t bother us or cut into our legs. We hardly noticed they were there. We also like that they are wide-leg instead of tapered/jogger style, but with an adjustable toggle at the bottom to make them joggers if you want.
We would have liked an extra inch or so on the inseam for the pants—they run a little short for folks over 5’ 6”.
Cotopaxi Losdos Zip Off — zipped into shorts.
The material looked and felt high-quality and abrasion-resistant, with more stretch than we anticipated. We tested the Azure/Aster colorway, which was the brightest available and is a purplish/indigo blue with some rusty orange colored highlights (the two loops at the bottom of the cargo pockets and brand tag). The loops, unfortunately, didn’t look sturdy at all. We wouldn't suggest attaching anything to them. They are more for style than function.
The waistband is not adjustable but has plenty of stretch to compensate for the lack of a drawstring. They fit nicely on our hips (we wear them low), the elastic doesn’t cut into our skin, and yet it was still very easy to take them on and off to go to the bathroom because there is enough stretch.
We tested these on a trip to Chicago in April with temps in the 30’s. We layered a thin wool base layer underneath to keep us warm since these were too short to keep our ankles warm and too thin to be comfortable in temperatures below 50. These are great for bringing one pair of pants that can almost do it all. They could be slightly dressed up due to their color-blocked color scheme and adjustable bottom hem, but we think the convertible style makes them much more suitable for casual looks.
Best travel pants for warm-weather destinations: Mountain Hardwear Dynama Convertible Pant
Price: $135
Sizes: XXS-XL
Inseam options: Regular
Fit: Standard/relaxed
Fabric: Plain weave stretch woven 94% nylon, 6% elastane
Weight: 9.5 oz
Pockets: 4 (2 slash pockets in front and 2 small zippered thigh pockets)
Hidden pocket: No
Waistband: Elastic with internal drawstring
Gusseted crotch: No
DWR coating: Yes
Quick-dry: Yes
Wrinkle-resistant: Yes
Machine washable: Yes
Ankle Cuff/Fit: Elastic (not adjustable)
UPF?: UPF 50+
Stretch (0-5): 4
2-way or 4-way stretch: 2-way
Odor Resistant: Yes
What we liked: The color was nice, the material felt high-quality, the color-coded zippers were convertible and comfortable.
What we didn't like: The pockets are shallow and not secure, the thigh pockets aren’t big enough for a phone, sizing can be tricky since it’s only a two-way stretch, waistband is not as wide as others we tried, and there’s no built-in place to carry the zipped off legs
The Mountain Hardwear Dynama Convertible Pant is our pick for the best warm-weather destination travel pants because they are convertible and lightweight. These pants have a UPF 50+ rating, are breathable and moisture-wicking, and feel cool and comfortable even at 117-degree temps in Death Valley (once zipped off into shorts).
Mountain Hardwear Dynama Convertible Pant
Mountain Hardwear Dynama Convertible Utility Joggers—our best warm weather pick for women.
We tested the Purple Sage color on a 4-hour road trip from the mountains above Bishop, CA, to Death Valley, with excursions in Alabama Hills and sightseeing in Death Valley, and we didn’t get any sweat stains! We started with the pants intact since the temps in the mountains were in the 60’s and pleasant. They are true joggers with thin elasticized ankle cuffs that are form-fitting at the ankle. The pants had a relaxed fit, and we were able to pack up our camp and feel comfortable in these at the same time. However, when sitting, kneeling, or squatting, the zippered part on the thigh would dig into our leg a little bit.
We unzipped these into shorts once we got into the Owens Valley because the temps were around 100F degrees. The pants zip off into 8” shorts that are loose enough and long enough to hold up to sitting in a car for a long road trip. You have to take off your shoes to zip off the pant legs completely. The zippers are color-coded, so it’s easy to reassemble them when you’re ready for pants again. However, there is no built-in pocket or carabiner to attach the zipped-off legs. This means you have to put them in a separate bag or risk losing them. We did notice that trying to zip the pant legs back on while wearing the shorts is cumbersome due to the small zipper size, although the small zippers are great for keeping these pants lightweight.
While driving, we noticed that the waistband was slightly thinner than that of other travel pants we tested, and it would crease in the middle when sitting. When we’d stand up and get out of the car, it would need to be smoothed/flipped out.
We wore these while packing and unpacking our car, packing up camp, setting up our hotel, sitting in the car for long periods, and then going out to eat and explore. Our phone slipped out of our pocket when we went to sit in our car twice! We could no longer trust the pockets for our phone, which is a huge downside for travel or hiking pants. If the pockets were deeper, longer, and more secure, these would have been contenders for best lightweight travel pants. Small items like lip balm or keys were fine in the pockets.
While in the Alabama Hills, we were scrambling on the rocks and coming down by sitting and scooting, and these pants held up fairly well to the rough rocks. There are some pulls on the fabric where we were sitting/maneuvering on our butt down the rocks, so the material isn’t completely abrasion resistant. We carried a fanny pack for our phone and other large items because the front pockets on these are insecure, and the zipper pockets on the side were too small for larger items.
The Mountain Hardwear Dynama Convertible Utility Joggers pockets are not secure.
We were technically between a size medium and large, but chose to test the medium because the large had an extremely sagging crotch and looked way too oversized, even though they felt a bit more relaxed in the hips and thighs. The mediums ended up fitting great for the level of versatility of the activity we did. Bending and stretching didn’t feel confined, and there was only a tiny hint of pulling across the hips. That seemed to loosen up after wearing them for several hours. The large would definitely have been too big for us, and the bagginess/sagginess may have interfered with our activities.
As for versatility, we don’t think these would work for more upscale, dressy, or professional settings. This is because of their sporty appearance since they are convertible with an obvious zipper line on the thigh, and the bottom hem isn’t adjustable to change the look. These would be great for traveling, walking a city, adventures/excursions (while carrying a separate bag for necessities because…pockets!), or for extended road trips. We can see these being a practical option in our closet for casual wear and short day hikes because of their comfort and convertible option. The price is on the high side, and after testing, we think there are other travel pants that offer better value for the money.
Best smart-casual travel pants: KÜHL Freeflex Roll-Up Pant
Price: $109
Sizes: 0-16
Inseam options: 28”, 30”, 32”, 34”
Fit: Midrise relaxed
Fabric: Proprietary Freeflex polyester, new polyester
Weight: 11.2 oz
Pockets: 6 (2 rear pockets with hidden snap, 2 side pockets, 2 cargo style pockets with snap closure)
Hidden pocket: No
Waistband: Zipper/snap with an interior elastic drawstring for a custom fit and belt loops.
Gusseted crotch: Yes
DWR coating: PFC-free water-resistant finish
Quick-dry: Yes
Wrinkle-resistant: Not officially, but they seem resistant to wrinkles naturally
Machine washable: Yes
Ankle Cuff/Fit: Adjustable snap capri
UPF?: Yes, UPF 50+
Stretch Scale (0-5): 4
2-way or 4-way stretch: 2-way
What we liked: Stretchy, many color options, elevated jeans look so they could be worn as business casual, snap up ankle cuff for versatility in wear, extended size and inseam options
What we didn't like: All of the pockets are too shallow and won’t fully fit a phone or anything bulky
The Kuhl Freeflex Roll-Up Pants have a casual “jeans” look with intentional tailoring, including the front zipper with snap, rivets, belt loop, and pocket placement.
KÜHL Freeflex Roll-Up Pant
Kuhl Freeflex Roll Up Pant— our best smart casual pick for women
Kuhl Freeflex Roll Up Pant— our best smart casual pick for women
It’s surprisingly misleading because even though they look like jeans, the moment we touched them and put them on, we noticed that the material is incredibly stretchy, like a performance pant, not denim at all, and the material was soft and lightweight without feeling too thin. They felt well-made with quality materials. They could easily be used for hiking, walking around a city, dinner, meeting, casual wear, or dressed up for a more business casual type of occasion.
We tested the Medium Long (34” inseam) length so they were long enough for us and to keep our ankles warm from colder temps (especially on the plane). The snap on the lower leg secures the pant leg when rolled up to make them an intentionally styled ankle-style pant for warmer temps or a multipurpose look.
We wore these on a 6+ hour flight from Maryland to LAX, and when we headed to the airport, we immediately noticed that all the pockets were too shallow to comfortably or securely fit our phone. This was frustrating because one of the main features we look for in travel pants is the ability to keep our phone in our pocket, rather than in our personal item when moving through the airport.
We loved that they were wrinkle-resistant even after being packed in our suitcase for a few days and then sitting on the plane for a few hours. They were comfortable even when sitting for long periods, and though the front closure indented our skin a little, it wasn’t uncomfortable.
These pants fill a meaningful gap in most travel pants roundups. These are the pants that pass at a business-casual restaurant, a conference, or a city museum—not just on a trail or in an airport. Many travel pants are obviously technical; the Kuhl Freeflex Roll-Up Pant bridges the gap.
Other travel pants we tested
Sherpa Adventure Gear Tarcho Cargo Pants
Price: $100
Sizes: XS-XXL
Fit: Relaxed
Fabric: 52% cotton, 40% polyester, 8% spandex
Weight: 11.2 oz
Pockets: 5 (2 front slash hand pockets, 2 Snap secure cargo pockets, 1 zippered rear pocket)
Hidden pocket: No
Waistband: Elastic waistband with external drawcord
Gusseted crotch: No
DWR coating: No
Quick-dry: No
Wrinkle-resistant: No
Machine washable: Yes
Sustainability: Made in Nepal “Proudly designed and produced in Nepal, supporting local factories and skilled teams who bring each piece to life.”
Ankle Cuff/Fit: Toggle cord adjustment
UPF?: No
Stretch Scale (0-5): 1-2
2-way or 4-way stretch: 2-way
We tested the Sherpa Adventure Gear Tarcho Cargo Pants because of the brand's reputation for sustainably handcrafting its products in Nepal. Sherpa Adventure Gear is a small brand working to make a larger impact in their community and the world at large. They had features that we thought would be useful as travel pants, including their durable fabric blend.
These pants didn’t win any category because they lacked a standout feature to make them winners. When we opened the package, there was a very strong, lingering chemical smell. It faded after a few hours, but that is something to be aware of.
The front slash pockets are not deep or secure enough for holding your phone (an issue we saw with other pants, too), and our phone fell out of our pocket at the airline gate. Also, they lacked the versatility of other pants.
These would be most useful for casual travel, plane travel, short hikes, and walking around a city, but we wouldn’t recommend them for extended hiking, rigorous adventures, or dressy or business-casual scenarios. If you prefer a simple pair of pants with few technical features and a single style (straight or wide-leg), and you will be carrying a bag/pack/purse for your items, you may still enjoy these pants.
Sherpa Adventure Gear Tarcho Cargo Pants
What to look for when buying travel pants
Our top picks for the best travel pants, tested across airports, cities, and trails
There are several factors to consider when buying travel pants. You may want to ask yourself these questions as a jumping-off point:
Where am I traveling?
What travel method am I using (e.g., plane, car, train, bus)?
What will the weather be like?
Is my priority style, function, or versatility?
Since our tester primarily travels by plane, we looked for different factors in travel pants than we would for someone who is exclusively doing road trips. The perfect pair of travel pants will undoubtedly look different from person to person, which is why this guide is meant to help you figure out what works best for you. Below are some key points to consider when shopping for travel pants.
Fabric and weight
There are several common fabric options, including nylon, polyester, elastane, nylon-spandex blends, cotton blends, recycled polyester blends, hemp, and proprietary polyester blends. Most synthetic fabrics are lighter weight, which means the clothing can be thinner and more packable. Organic fabrics tend to be heavier, which can make them more durable.
Nylon is a synthetic fiber that is human-created. It is best known for its elasticity and stretch. Most products with any stretch will include nylon as one of their materials. Nylon is both lightweight and strong. Other features include abrasion resistance, moisture wicking, wrinkle resistance, and quick drying. One downside of nylon is its low breathability when the fabric is heavy or tightly woven.
Polyester is another synthetic fiber that is human-made. Like nylon, polyester is also known for being lightweight, quick drying, moisture-wicking, and wrinkle-resistant. Polyester can also retain odors. Recycled polyester is more sustainable, using recycled water bottles and other post-consumer plastics in its manufacturing. Some companies market their polyester as proprietary, like Kuhl’s “Freeflex” fabric.
Nylon-spandex-elastane blends are all common names for the same type of incredibly stretchy synthetic fabric. You’ll often find this blend in athletic wear, base layers, socks, and of course, travel pants! The trade-off is that nylon can have low breathability (if the fabric is heavy or tightly woven).
Cotton is an organic/natural fiber that is arguably one of the most common fabric types in the world. Unlike the synthetic fabrics, cotton is known for its breathability and heat retention. Many types of clothing are made by blending cotton with other fabrics such as nylon and polyester to maximize the properties of each. Cotton is heavier than synthetic fabrics, has lower moisture-wicking properties, and does not dry quickly.
Hemp is another organic/natural fiber and comes from the Cannabis sativa plant. Like cotton, hemp is highly breathable. In addition, hemp has solid moisture-wicking properties. The trade-offs are that hemp doesn’t have as much stretch as synthetic fabrics and is heavier.
Several travel pants we tested had a DWR (durable water repellent) coating. Both the REI Trailmade Relaxed and the Kuhl Freeflex Roll-up are made without PFAS. PFAS-free DWR may be worth seeking out if you’re interested in more sustainable options that reduce toxic chemical use.
Stretch and range of motion
Stretch and range of motion are important factors when evaluating travel pants you will wear while standing, sitting, walking, bending, squatting, and getting on and off for bathroom breaks. You will most often see an item’s stretch capability written as 2-way or 4-way stretch. These are misnomers because 2-way stretch means the fabric stretches in one direction, while 4-way stretch means it stretches in two directions. But we guess 1-way stretch and 2-way stretch didn’t sound as marketable!
Pants with 4-way stretch will give you much more flexibility for challenging travel days that have you reaching into overhead bins, sitting in cramped seats, walking long distances while carrying a bag or dragging a suitcase, or even while relaxing at your hotel after a long day on the road. However, some material with 2-way stretch had even greater stretch capacity, so it will vary by brand/style.
Having a lot of stretch is a good indicator that the pants will be comfortable, as they’re more likely to move with you and be forgiving. However, other factors also affect comfort, including the gusset design and the pants' cut and shape.
Pocket layout and security
Not all travel pants carry the same pocket placement and depth vary significantly across our picks,
Pockets are arguably one of the most important features for travel pants. As someone who travels extensively through airports and juggles carry-ons, AirPods, rental car keys, and our phone, I find reliable pockets non-negotiable.
It’s not just about having pockets, but where they are positioned on the pants that also makes a difference. For instance, putting a phone in a cargo pocket might weigh the leg down and pull the waistband lower on some styles of pants. Having more pockets can add bulk and weight, so if you’re going for something more lightweight, choose pants with fewer pockets.
When deciding how many pockets you need, think about the style of travel you’ll be doing, what you’ll need to put in your pockets, and if you need easy access to them.
Standard pockets are usually on the front for your hands, and/or on the rear. There usually isn’t a fastener, flap, or snap, and they are “slash style,” meaning you can access them unrestricted. Depth of pocket matters here because a shallow slash pocket means bulkier items can slip out when you’re sitting down. Deeper pockets mean more security.
A well-placed hidden pocket should be accessible but not obvious when worn.
Zip pockets have a zipper closure and are usually found on the rear or are a type of hidden pocket. They can be shallow or deep, depending on their intended usage for small or large items.
Hidden pockets (real hidden pockets) have a zipper closure and are usually tucked away either inside the waistband or inside an existing standard pocket. They are meant to be hidden from casual view as a security measure so that pickpockets can’t easily access them. True hidden pockets are often large enough for important travel documents like passports, ID’s, credit cards, and cash.
Cargo pockets are often found on the sides of pants and are typically larger/deeper than standard front pockets. Some cargo pockets are drop-in, meaning there is no closure, flap, or fastener to hinder access. Others have a hidden snap, zipper, or overlapping fabric flap to help prevent items from falling out once placed inside.
Fasteners vary among pockets, including zippers, snaps, flaps, Velcro, or buttons.
Waistband design matters more on travel pants than everyday wear, especially on long flights.
Waistband design
Waistband design is an important factor for comfort when choosing travel pants. You’ll want to consider if you’ll be doing a lot of sitting, moving through security checkpoints where you don’t want to have to remove a belt, and the variable temperatures you may encounter on the trip.
Elastic waistbands are a flexible option that allows a somewhat customized fit to your body. They are also easy to take on and off for bathroom breaks en route or to adjust layers while traveling. Since there is no hardware to press into your body when sitting, they tend to be one of the more comfortable options. For folks like me with athletic legs, larger hips and thighs, elastic waistbands need enough stretch to fit over those areas. Otherwise, a zip-fly might be a better option because it opens wider to slip them on.
Drawstring/drawcord waistbands have a string, often elastic, that is sewn into the waistband so you can adjust the fit and tie the strings to your comfort. Some elastic waistbands also include a drawstring, giving you even more fit options. Drawstrings can be external or on the inside of the waistband, so the strings are hidden from view.
Zip-fly waistbands have a zipper (the fly) and either a snap or button closure at the top, similar to a standard pair of jeans. These offer a wider opening to step into the pants, but since the waistband is fixed, meaning there often isn’t an elastic waistband too, the fit isn’t as customizable. Having 4-way stretch in the material itself can help offset this tradeoff. They can sometimes include belt loops, which is helpful if you have to go up a size so the pants fit over your hips and thighs but end up too loose on your waist. This is an experience we’ve had far too often throughout our lives!
Hybrid waistbands may combine several of these options. We tested a few pairs that had both an elastic waistband and a drawstring/drawcord or zip-fly with a drawcord, like the Cotopaxi Cambio Joggers, Kuhl Trekr Straight Pant, Sherpa Adventure Gear Tarcho Cargo Pants, and the REI Co-op Trailmade Relax pants.
Wrinkle resistance and care
We stuffed each pair in a bag for several hours to see how they recovered.
Wrinkle-resistant means the fabric has been treated or constructed to avoid creasing. When you can roll, stuff, fold, and pack a piece of clothing into a bag or suitcase for extended periods, then pull it out to wear with minimal wrinkles, it qualifies as “wrinkle resistant.” This also applies to clothing that can be washed and hung without needing to have wrinkles ironed or steamed out first.
If you can fold, roll, or wad up the pants into a suitcase, carry-on, bag, or adventure travel backpack and take them out hours or days later and they have minimal to no creasing, they are wrinkle-resistant. This is a helpful feature because who wants to be ironing their clothes constantly while traveling?
Now, of course, wrinkle-resistant fabric can’t prevent all wrinkles. If you ball it up wet and stuff it in a dry bag for days, when you unfold the pants, they will likely be wrinkled. You can get the wrinkles out and refresh the pants by shaking them out and hanging them overnight. You can also hang them in the bathroom while you’re taking a hot shower, so the steam can help smooth them out.
Fit and versatility
When it comes to travel pants, there are several options for fit that can help you choose what works best for your body, style, comfort, and travel expectations. The spectrum of options ranges from slim-fit styles to relaxed joggers, loose-fit cargo styles, utility styles, chinos, straight-leg, and wide-leg styles.
Within each category, there are additional options that can change the fit, such as ankle cuff adjustment. Some travel pants had a bungee cord at the ankle cuff, so they could be worn loose (barrel/straight-leg style) or fitted (like a jogger), depending on the occasion. Some had a fixed ribbed cuff or a loose elastic cuff. Others offered a wide leg with no adjustment (like the Vuori Villa Wideleg).
When considering what to purchase, think about how you will use your travel pants and the specific types of trips you will take. For instance, are you going to be hiking and having dinner immediately afterward, or getting off the plane and walking through the city to shop and museum-hop? A slim technical pant is going to suit different occasions than a relaxed cargo-style pant. If you want your travel pants to serve multiple purposes for the same trip and have flexibility in how you style them, the fit is one of the criteria to research. The choice is always yours!
Price and value
We felt that many of the travel pants we tested, with the exception of the REI Co-op Trailmade Relax, were overpriced for what they offered, or that the price wasn’t uniform across features. For example, the Vuori Villa pants are priced at $128, with no technical features, only two shallow pockets, and no ankle or waist adjustments. While the Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Offs are priced at $125 and, you’re getting four pockets, convertible pants that can also be shorts (2-in-1), an adjustable ankle cuff, and many color options.
Prices aren’t likely to come down on clothing anytime soon. So, since most of these fall into a general price range around $100 (the ones we tested were in the $80-$135 range) and were made from similar materials, we suggest choosing a pair that offers you the highest value as you determine it.
Do you want a pair that can be versatile while traveling and while at home? Do you want a pair that is convertible? Do you need a pair to fit one particular purpose? Do you want a pair that will last for years, or is this a one-off trip? Durability matters in the long term, and when products are made with higher-quality materials, the price can be justified if you can wear them for years to come.
Types of travel pants explained
Here are the main categories of travel pants that you may encounter while shopping.
Convertible pants
Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off zip off features.
These are full-length pants that zip off into shorts. The length of shorts varies from brand to brand. Oftentimes, the full-length pants have ankle adjustments so they can be worn straight leg or fitted at the ankle like a jogger. These are useful when you are traveling to a place with varying temperatures, you run hot while traveling/hiking, or you want to maximize space by having an item of clothing that can double as pants or shorts.
Some brands have unique color options or contrasting colors for added style and versatility (such as the Cotopaxi Losdos Convertible Pants), while other convertible pants are monochrome (such as the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Convertible Pants).
A couple of notable features to look for are color-coded zippers for ease of reattaching the legs and an integrated pocket that the zipped off legs can be stuffed into and attached to the pants.
Chino-style travel pants
These pants often look like traditional trousers or jeans with a zip-fly and relaxed, casual look. They can come in technical fabrics, but with a traditional chino cut, they can be a socially versatile option.
Jogger-style travel pants
Joggers are pants that are loose fitting with an elastic style waistband and elasticated ankles. They are casual-looking and comfortable, akin to a comfy pair of sweatpants. They offer limited versatility outside casual settings due to their styling. However, if they are made with an upscale-looking fabric or with a color that can be dressed up, it is possible to get multiple uses out of joggers.
Cargo travel pants
Cargo travel pants are often intentionally oversized, with a variety of waistband options. They may sometimes offer a bungee cord ankle to adjust the bottom for different looks or errands (e.g., if it’s raining or muddy).
They tend to have extra pockets, which means extra storage, but the trade-off is that they are heavier and bulkier. Cargo travel pants are best for travelers who genuinely need the pocket space, or who prefer the loose, casual fit. We didn’t specifically test a cargo-style travel pant, but the Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off pants were the closest to this style, plus they were convertible.
Capri / cropped travel pants
Capri or cropped travel pants are shorter than full-length pants and typically hit between the bottom of the knee and the mid-calf. These are great for warm destinations. There can be fit challenges depending on your height and body type, so you may need to try pairs from different brands to find your ideal fit. These are best for folks who run hot, are going to a warm destination, and want to feel less encumbered by longer pants. They may not be ideal for a plane if you get cold while flying.
Lightweight shell pants
These pants are thin, packable, wind- and water-resistant, and can be layered for colder destinations. Shell pants offer more protection than standard travel pants because of the fabric type and anti-abrasion properties they typically have. They can be a great option for shoulder-season travel when you need a pair of pants that can withstand changing weather conditions, temperatures, and travel modalities.
We haven’t tested any shell pants for this guide, but you can check out our Best Rain Pants guide for some of our favorite lightweight shell pants. If you’ll be traveling somewhere cold, you may want to check out our Best Insulated Pants guide.
Choosing travel pants by trip type
The right travel pants depend less on where you're going than on how you'll spend the day. If most of your trip is spent sitting — long-haul flights, long drives — prioritize an elastic or drawstring waistband and enough length to cover your ankles when seated; the Vuori Villa Wideleg is the most comfortable pair we sat in for eight-plus hours, though it's thin enough that you'll feel the cabin air. If you're carry-on only, weight and pack size decide it: the REI Co-op Trailmade Relaxed folds to roughly 8" x 8" x 2" at 8 oz and came out of a packing cube after several days barely wrinkled. For warm-weather destinations, a convertible earns its keep — the Mountain Hardwear Dynama stayed comfortable at 117°F in Death Valley once we zipped the legs off, and the Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off gives you a built-in pocket and carabiner to stash the legs, which the Dynama doesn't. For trips with a dinner or a meeting in them, the KÜHL Freeflex Roll-Up passes at a business-casual restaurant in a way most technical pants don't.
One caveat that applies across all columns: pocket depth was the most common failure in this roundup. Four of the nine pairs we tested let a phone slip out while we were sitting. If you plan to keep your phone in your pocket through an airport, that should weigh more heavily than any single trip-type match below.
| Travel Pants | Long-haul international flight (comfort + packability priority) | City travel / urban exploration (versatility + smart-casual appearance) | Warm-weather / tropical destination (breathability + quick-dry + UPF) | Mixed hiking and travel (durability + stretch + pocket security) | Business travel (wrinkle resistance + tailored appearance + hidden pockets) | Backpacking / carry-on only (packability + multi-day odor resistance + weight) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KÜHL Trekr Straight Pant | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| REI Co-op Trailmade Relaxed Pants | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ||
| Vuori Villa Wideleg Pant | ✅ | ✅ | ||||
| Cotopaxi Cambio Jogger | ✅ | ✅ | ||||
| Patagonia Garden Island Pants | ✅ | ✅ | ||||
| Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off Pant | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ||
| Mountain Hardwear Dynama Convertible Pant | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | |||
| KÜHL Freeflex Roll-Up Pant | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | |||
| Sherpa Adventure Gear Tarcho Cargo Pants | ✅ | ✅ |
Travel pants fit and sizing guidance
Long-haul comfort was a primary test criterion for our best flight pants pick.
Pants in general run the gamut when it comes to sizing, and travel pants aren’t the exception. Sizing varies greatly across brands. In fact, we were even unsure about sizing when ordering pairs to test, despite spending time examining the sizing charts on the brand's websites. We ordered a size up on a couple of pairs, which ended up being too large. But we felt that too large was better than too small, especially since the large was still not loose in some areas of our hips, which we knew would translate into being too small on a medium.
Size variables include the length of the pants, rise height, and hip-to-waist ratio. We recommend checking brand-specific size charts and return/exchange policy before ordering. If you get a size that doesn’t work, you want to be able to return or exchange the product. Some travel pants offer several inseam options, but usually at a higher price.
The Mountain Hardwear Dynama Convertible Pant had an odd fit, leaving me between a medium and a large. The large was much too big, and the crotch sagged significantly, but the medium was too short and a bit too tight on our thighs. We opted to test the medium because the super saggy crotch looked ridiculous.
We were also concerned about sizing for the Sherpa Adventure Gear pants based on the chart on the website. We opted for a large, but even though the crotch sagged a bit and the waistband was too loose, they were still a little tight around our hips since the material is only a 2-way stretch. For these, we’d recommend sizing up if you’re between sizes.
If standard sizing doesn’t always work for you, these tested brands have extended sizing and/or inseam options: REI, Kuhl, Sherpa Adventure Gear, and Mountain Hardwear. And these brands offered adjustable waistbands: REI, Cotopaxi, Kuhl, and Sherpa Adventure Gear.
Care and maintenance tips for travel pants
Most travel pants, including all the ones on our list, are machine washable. Check the label before washing for any specific care instructions, such as washing on a gentle cycle.
We want to share some practical care tips to keep your travel pants traveling with you for years to come. The DWR coating on pants can degrade with washing. The coating can be reactivated by putting it in the dryer on the low-heat setting or by using DWR refresh spray, which is available at many outdoor retailers.
Take wrinkle-resistant fabrics out of the washer as soon as possible and hang them to dry to maximize the wrinkle resistance. You can also do what we call a “field refresh” on the go to return your pants to their original shape or look: Hang the pants in a steamy bathroom overnight to remove most of the light wrinkles without a full wash.
For odor-resistant fabrics, fabrics that have been treated to capture/block/kill odor-causing bacteria before they can interact with your sweat, you still need to wash them regularly. When in doubt, give it the sniff test.
Some synthetic fabrics are prone to pilling with abrasion or after several washes, so we suggest turning pants inside out for washing. If pilling does happen, you can often use an electric fabric depiller.
FAQ
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Marketing language! But honestly, any pair of pants can be used as travel pants. With that said, travel pants tend to have features useful for travelers, including pockets, comfort, wrinkle-resistant fabrics, stretchiness, versatility, and durability.
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They certainly can be! Again, this is largely marketing. The real difference will be in the differentiating features you’ll need for hiking vs. traveling, and in making sure the pants you pick fit those needs. For instance, we own several pairs of hiking pants that we regularly wear while traveling.
For our favorite hiking pants, check out our Best Men’s Hiking Pants and Best Women’s Hiking Pants guides. If you’re planning an adventure, check out our Adventure Travel Packing List.
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A stretchy fabric that is durable and comfortable. After that, it will be up to your personal preferences and comfort levels. A fabric that is breathable and moisture-wicking is also helpful.
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As many as you want! We usually wear one pair and bring a second pair with a slightly different look/style, so we maximize our outfit options while minimizing what we have to pack. Look at the activities you want to do, how long you’ll need to go between washing, and how long you’ll be gone to land on a number that works for you.
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Yes, they can! It varies since pants vary in weight, construction, and material. If a travel pant is marketed as quick-drying, or if it is made of a thinner polyester fabric, it’s a good bet that it can dry overnight.
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Convertible pants are absolutely worth it! We swear by the ones we own and have taken them on trips around the world. If you have a certain look in mind that can only be achieved by packing a separate pair of shorts, do that. But if you would rather save that extra space for another item, convertible pants can save space and add versatility when traveling. Check how long the shorts are when the pants are zipped off to make sure you’re getting a shorts style you like.
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Try it out for yourself! Most hidden pockets are small and are most useful for credit cards, IDs, keys, or other really small items. We’ve found that wearing a separate money belt under our clothes in high pick-pocket areas is more effective than a built-in hidden pocket in our pants. We don’t personally think this is a deal-breaker feature.
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Whatever you decide to wear is what’s appropriate! Seriously, the fashion police are not going to give you a ticket for wearing pants with a drawstring waist outside the airport. Wear what is comfortable and think about how much fun you’re going to have on your trip… not what someone else thinks is an appropriate look on the street.
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Rolling them up really helps! We've been rolling our clothes instead of folding them for years, and it helps with all types of clothes, not just the wrinkle-resistant ones. If you can’t roll them, lay them flat on the bottom of the suitcase and pack everything else on top so they are pushed mostly flat.
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You might need to layer your travel pants. Most travel pants, in fact, all the ones we tested, were made of lightweight material that was not specifically designed for cold-weather destinations. If you will be traveling somewhere cold, look for travel pants that are long enough and loose enough to layer something underneath, such as a wool baselayer or leggings. (We did this with the Cotopaxi Losdos Convertible Pants.)
How we researched and tested
All the travel pants we tested for this roundup.
We tested a total of nine travel pants over the course of three months. Each pair of travel pants was washed at least once. Every pair except for two was tested on airplane travel.
We identified the best travel pants to test based on a variety of factors, including reader feedback, gear forums, brand outreach/suggestions, prior Treeline coverage of hiking and rain pants that crossed into travel territory, and independent market research. For travel pants we wanted to test, but that weren’t available, we attempted to secure a similar style from either the same brand or a competitor. All of the pants were requested from brands and shipped to our testers.
Our testing methodology involved wearing these travel pants during actual travel scenarios to see how they performed under the use of a professional traveler. The author and primary tester, Nicole Snell, wore each pair of pants on extended plane travel, with the exception of the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Convertible Pant and the Patagonia Garden Island Pants, which were worn on extended road trips. The rest of the travel pants were worn for the drive/ride to the airport, checking a bag on some trips, through airport security, sitting at the gate, prolonged sitting on a plane, and using the bathroom multiple times, driving to the destination via either rental car or rideshare, and running errands, such as the grocery store and setting up equipment.
We stuffed each pair in a bag for several hours to see how they recovered
Several pairs were tested in social settings, one pair was tested for a client meeting and dinner, and all were evaluated for their ease of being able to transition to hiking or participating in other types of activities without changing clothes (even if I—Nicole Snell—didn’t actually do that activity). The travel pants were tested in different weather conditions, including rain, wind, heat, cold, and humidity across the US. Since the weather is unpredictable, it was not possible to test each pair in the same conditions.
Each pair of pants was washed and hung to dry at least once, according to its care instructions. Every pair but one came out of the wash in perfect condition. The Sherpa Adventure Gear Tarcho Cargo Pants had several loose threads on the seams after one wash.
Our primary tester, Nicole Snell, is 5’ 8” and 160 lbs with an athletic build and an hourglass shape. She tested almost all pants in women’s size medium, with long inseam options where available. The Sherpa Adventure Gear Tarcho Cargo Pants were a size large because she was between sizes, and they have less stretch. She tried the Mountain Hardwear Dynama pants in both a medium and a large, and although neither was a perfect fit, she fully tested the mediums because the large was too large and had a sagging crotch.
Why you should trust us / About the author
Neither Treeline Review nor Nicole Snell was paid by any brand for our thoughts or opinions on the travel pants she tested. Her thoughts and opinions are hers alone, based on her actual testing in real travel scenarios, and have not been influenced in any way by any of the brands we tested or any other entities.
Nicole Snell is our lead tester, who is an expert at traveling the world, especially solo. She has traveled to 35 countries and hiked in 18 of them, and has also visited all 50 states. She regularly takes 20+ flights per year for both work and pleasure.
Nicole is an experienced solo hiker and backpacker and has completed several famous trails/peaks, including Mt. Whitney, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and the four-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Nicole is an expert adventurer and has participated in numerous outdoor adventure activities in countries around the world, pushed past her own comfort zones, taken long road trips, driven on the left side of the road in the UK, and walked through hundreds of cities on six continents. Nicole is a trusted expert on safety, hiking, and traveling, making her a credible tester for this story.
We apply the same criteria to all the apparel we test here at Treeline Review. Nicole Snell was also our tester for the Best Hiking Leggings story. You can find more of her work on her Treeline Review author page.
