Packable jackets: 17 that will fit in your carry-on

It’s hard to beat this classic when you’re in need of a cosy puffer to take the chill off. The trifecta of packable jackets, it is lightweight, weather-resistant, and stuffed with highly compressible PrimaLoft insulation you wouldn’t imagine could keep you so warm. It’s best for 40-degree-and-up weather when you’re being active on hiking trails, or casual moments running around town when you just need a solid mid layer. Having worn this style for more than five years everywhere from Iceland to Ireland, I can confidently say it’s one I always have on deck. I love the hood for an unexpected drizzle and extra warmth – and it can fold into itself too.

Weight: 349g
Material: 100 per cent ripstop polyester shell with a water-repellent finish and PrimaLoft insulation
Folds into itself? Yes

It’s hard to beat this classic when you’re in need of a cosy puffer to take the chill off. The trifecta of packable jackets, it is lightweight, weather-resistant, and stuffed with highly compressible PrimaLoft insulation you wouldn’t imagine could keep you so warm. It’s best for 40-degree-and-up weather when you’re being active on hiking trails, or casual moments running around town when you just need a solid mid layer. Having worn this style for more than five years everywhere from Iceland to Ireland, I can confidently say it’s one I always have on deck. I love the hood for an unexpected drizzle and extra warmth – and it can fold into itself too.

Weight: 349g
Material: 100 per cent ripstop polyester shell with a water-repellent finish and PrimaLoft insulation
Folds into itself? Yes

This under-£50 Amazon puffer gets surprisingly compact when compressed into its own case. It's longer than other packable jackets on this list, providing extra warmth and insulation when you need it most. And if you’re like me, it’ll come in handy in frigid locations when you need protection from wind and light rain (and prefer your thighs to be covered up). On a trip to Greenland, I wore this during a long walk over a tundra and was surprised by its flexibility and warmth. Thanks to the carrying case, I was able to fit everything in a carry-on despite needing to pack several jumpers for the cool destination.

Weight: 227g
Material: Nylon
Folds into itself? Yes

This airy, water-repellent puffer is downright cloud-like thanks to the brand’s signature Pufftech technology that traps air to keep you warm (as any fans of Uniqlo’s uber-popular HeatTech clothing will appreciate). Perfect for transitional weather in shoulder season, this is a must-pack for unpredictable climates. Case in point: I bought this jacket on a whim in northern Vietnam because I didn’t anticipate how cold it would be. I had zero room left in my suitcase for the two-week trip, but it packed down so small into its own case that it was able to fit. It kept me cosy despite rain and fog in the Hoang Lien Son Mountains and the Golden Bridge in Da Nang.

Weight: 298g
Material: 100 per cent nylon with a polyester filling
Folds into itself? Yes

Damson Madder Liu shower proof raincoat

The statement coat that swept through London last winter; there's no denying this is one of the chicest raincoats we've come across – and thus far, can comfortably withstand the capital’s damp conditions. It's important to note that it's 'showerproof', rather than waterproof, which means it's probably not the best option for trekking through jungles or long hikes in the highlands, but for everyday wear on an autumn or winter break, it's more than ideal. Its relaxed silhouette cinches neatly at the waist, layering easily over chunky knitwear without feeling restrictive. Design highlights such as voluminous balloon sleeves, adjustable waist cords, and subtle embroidered details elevate the overall aesthetic. It's also been crafted entirely from recycled materials, offering an eco-conscious profile alongside a thick, comforting build that keeps winter chills at bay. Abigail Malbon

Material: 77 per cent recycled fabrics – mostly polyester

Mountain Warehouse Thunderstorm II 3 in 1 waterproof jacket

Up until now, the raincoats I’ve owned have required some serious layering for the colder days. They've done the job of keeping my clothes from getting wet; not so much at keeping chills at bay. When I discovered the Thunderstorm II from Mountain Warehouse (always a failsafe option for when I'm struggling to pick a brand) has a detachable inner fleece, I was in. This makes the softshell jacket as good an option for a quick dog walk around the block on a drizzly day as for a winter hike – or even ski touring. Its waterproof shell and taped seams make it ultra water-resistant, and the hood is big enough to keep the rain off your face – a good option if you’re wearing makeup or have just had your hair done. When it comes to coats, I am my proven father’s daughter (my dad famously states there is no better colour than navy) but my mom inspired me to get the hot pink, and it’s the perfect way to beat any rainy day blues. The cars will spot you too. Tamara Southward

Material: 100 per cent polyamide

Peak Performance Treeline shell jacket

Standing out as one of the lightest and most streamlined jackets on our list, this piece also boasts exceptional technical credentials. Successfully lab-tested up to a 10,000mm rating (confirming full waterproofing), it utilises a flexible, breathable fabric that never restricts motion – making it ideal for active trail hikes. I tested it over a five-day horse-riding expedition in Iceland, travelling near the end of summer, which meant cold and wet conditions. I required thermal base layers and a thick fleece beneath, but this jacket stayed on every time I stepped out from the lodge. It proved a genuine saviour as a final outer shell, keeping me completely dry through eight-hour days on horseback in intermittent rain. Crucially, my movement remained entirely unrestricted. The biggest highlight was the windproofing – the barrier against freezing gales was immediately noticeable the moment I zipped it up. Charley Ward, commerce writer

Weight: 340g
Material: Wind- and waterproof HIPE® technology shell

This thin, water-repellent shell named the Houdini can indeed perform a vanishing act – it packs up so small that you can make it disappear into a pocket or a handbag. And at a mere 96 g, it doesn’t get much lighter than this. It’s best used as a windbreaker, with reflective material that makes it perfect for foggy walks, runs, and rides (trip to San Francisco, anyone?). I used it as a top layer during spring and summer hikes in North Carolina, and found I could whip it out of a hiking backpack in no time. I’m tempted to leave it in my suitcase for “just-in-case” situations year-round. One caveat: Don’t expect this jacket to hold up to downpours or provide warmth in cold climates like a puffer; you’ll need a waterproof, insulated option for that.

Weight: 96g
Material: Ripstop nylon
Folds into itself? Yes

Three layers of waterproof protection make this windproof shell a smart choice for rainy travel days. It’s a reliable option for outdoor hikes in wet climates like Iceland and Seattle, and I love that it has armpit zips to provide ventilation. Other standout features include an adjustable hood with a visor, hand-warmer pockets, and a micro-fleece lined neck to keep you warm. Plus, it packs down into itself, making it even more travel-friendly.

Weight: 352g
Material: 100 per cent recycled nylon with a durable water-repellent finish
Folds into itself? Yes

This padded windbreaker jacket layers effortlessly over gym leggings, knitwear, and casual everyday outfits, making it a multipurpose hero that you’ll reach for over and over – a true capsule wardrobe gem that earns a solid spot in your hand luggage. It’s made from silky polyamide cut in a relaxed, boxy fit, with a high collar, zip fastening and side pockets. At the bottom, there’s an adjustable drawstring hem to customise the fit and, while it’s not the best option for chilly December weather, the lightly padded filling provides comfort and warmth on blustery autumnal outings.

Material: 100 per cent polyamide
Folds into itself? No

You might not be the warmest you’ve ever felt in this cropped pullover, but who cares when you look this stylish? This Alo Yoga quarter-zip jacket is cut from a crinkle-woven fabric that’s perfect for accompanying you on your day-to-day business, while still comfy enough to lounge in for a post-pilates class catch up. It’s ideal for layering over leggings, cycling shorts, or a tennis skirt, and the quarter-zip closure and adjustable side toggles make it effortless to throw into a tote or weekender bag for active trips.

Material: 100 per cent nylon
Folds into itself? No

It’s easy to see why Lululemon calls this style the Always Effortless jacket. Its versatility ensures you’re covered in all kinds of conditions thanks to a stowable hood, windproof and water-resistant material that keeps you protected from wind and drizzle, a ventilated back that keeps things breezy, and UV protection to shield you from harmful sun rays. Not to mention, it somehow looks stylish, too – you can wear it straight from a walking tour to a nice dinner in the city without needing to change. It would feel right at home on a drizzly spring or autumn day in London.

Weight: 454g
Material: 100 per cent nylon with a polyester lining
Folds into itself? No

One of my favourite brands for comfortable travel sets, Vuori has plenty of jackets to love, but I especially appreciate this light zip-up layer for its packability. It’s made of the brand’s lightweight DreamKnit fabric that takes up almost no space when packing, but it can easily be layered with gilets and heavier coats. It’s stretchy and moisture-wicking, making it a good pick for long-haul flights, hiking trips, or yoga retreats when you want to feel on-trend.

Weight: 454g
Material: 89 per cent recycled polyester, 11 per cent elastane
Folds into itself? No

No jacket edit would be complete without a classic Burberry parka, and this cropped reiteration is a better size and shape for folding carefully into your luggage, while transitioning effortlessly from daytime sightseeing sessions to evenings at a smart restaurant. This hooded style is made from shower-resistant tropical gabardine – the lightest of Burberry’s signature fabrics, and developed specifically for warmer climates. It has that instantly-recognisable House Check cotton lining, side button-flap pockets, a two-way zip and button closure, and a drawcord hem for beating windchill.

Material: 100 per cent cotton
Folds into itself? No

This quilted bomber jacket has that easy day-to-night feel that works to make any outfit just that little bit cooler, while the voluminous sleeves, wrap-over buttons and high neck read decidedly chic, for a look that works equally well with tailored trousers. A steel grey colouring rounds off the minimalistic feel nicely.

Material: 100 per cent polyester
Folds into itself? No

While a traditional trench coat takes up a good amount of suitcase space, the short crop of this chic jacket from beloved French brand Sézane keeps it packable. What room it does take up, it more than makes up for in function: It’s water-repellent, neutral, and can easily be dressed up enough for a night at the theatre or down for a day spent strolling the Champs Élysées, minus the tourist look. It’s almost enough to inspire a trip to Paris this autumn – just don’t be surprised if people come up to ask you for directions.

Weight: 680g
Material: 100 per cent organic cotton, with a lining made of 60 per cent organic cotton and 40 per cent recycled polyester
Folds into itself? No

What’s more classic than a denim jacket? This one from Free People is very light (just a bit heavier than a button-down chambray), so it’s completely bulk-free. It’s great for layering during shoulder season in places like California where you just need a light jacket or an oversized layer to throw over your jumper. The canvas collar gives it the look of a barn jacket without the weight that usually comes with it.

Weight: 454g
Material: 80 per cent cotton, 20 per cent hemp
Folds into itself? No

More tried-and-tested parkas, coats and down jackets we love