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Comfortable and functional clothing is essential when traveling. Packing wrinkle-resistant apparel will not only save you time from steaming or ironing, but also allow you to bring more items since you can fold them tightly in packing cubes without worrying that they’ll end up with creases. And since brands often use synthetic, high-performance fabrics to manufacture wrinkle-free garments, you also get a few more benefits: quick drying, stain resistant, lightweight, and versatile clothing.
Of course, not all wrinkle-free apparel is the same. The perfect travel wardrobe needs to be practical, easy to keep clean, versatile, and remain in good condition on the go. So opt for pieces with extra features—such as pockets, hoods, and zippers—and color-coordinate so you can style more outfits with fewer items.
Below, we rounded up the best wrinkle-free clothing for men and women to update your travel wardrobe, including affordable options and brands that offer a wide range of sizes.
Our picks for the best wrinkle-free travel clothes
The best packable travel clothes that won’t wrinkle
Best wrinkle-free outfit for women: Quince Cashmere Pants and Zip-up Hoodie
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY QUINCE
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY QUINCE
Buy it now on Quince
Why we like it: Designed with a classic casual fit and breathable construction, you may be reaching for this cashmere set even when you’re not on the road. Cashmere is a great fabric because, unlike other natural fibers, it doesn’t wrinkle but retains qualities such as body temperature regulation and insulation. It’s also incredibly soft and a good option for sensitive skin.
The zip-up hoodie has elasticized hemlines for a better fit and two pockets (although they don’t have zippers, so we wouldn’t store anything valuable in there).
We are huge fans of the cashmere pants because they have a comfortable mid-height straight cut for a slightly loose fit. But best of all, the four pockets give you the flexibility to keep your small essentials easily accessible.
Keep in mind: This set is entirely made from cashmere, so you will have to occasionally dry-clean it to keep it in top condition.
Best wrinkle-free outfit for men: Unbound Merino Men’s Travel Pants + T-Shirt Bundle
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY UNBOUND MERINO
Buy it now at Unbound Merino
Why we like it: A good T-shirt and a pair of well-tailored pants like these by Unbound Merino are the quintessential travel outfit. And because they are wrinkle-resistant, you could re-wear them multiple times. The reason? Both are made from wool, a naturally wrinkle-free fabric, and a favorite among travelers for keeping unpleasant odors at bay. In addition to being hypoallergenic, the sustainable material is also known for its breathability. And when it’s time to wash this set, you can throw it in the washing machine.
The pants have a more fitted look with some stretch, resulting in a casually elegant look that can be dressed up and down. And with a hidden zippered pocket in the back, they can safely hold your earphones or credit cards.
The company also allows you to choose between two neckline styles for the T-shirt—crew or V neck, and two inseam lengths for the pants.
Keep in mind: While the pants are stretchy, they are not suitable for high-intensity movements. They have slightly tapered legs.
Best wrinkle-free dress: Columbia Freezer Maxi Dress
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY AMAZON
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Why we like it: The design of this maxi dress is equal parts classic looks and functionality. The flattering A-line silhouette, in combination with the side slits, allows for ventilation and free movement, while the upper part fits just a little loose, which makes this piece even more comfortable. Keep in mind that the dress has an empire waist, which means that it floats away below the bustline, a design feature that wins even more points for comfort.
The fabric is a proprietary blend of polyester and elastane, which Columbia has manufactured with sun protection and breathability in mind. Also helpful: If you take this dress to the beach or the pool and get it wet, the material will dry quickly and wick away any moisture.
The dress looks timeless and can be worn under a cardigan and a belt for a more formal look, or simply as your go-to summer sun dress.
Keep in mind: It might not fit like a classic maxi dress on taller women.
Best wrinkle-free shirt for men: Outerknown Hooded Sun Shirt
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OUTERKNOWN
Buy it now at Outerknown
Why we like it: This shirt is a multitasking powerhouse that you could wear swimming, hiking, running, traveling, and pretty much everything in between. Outerknown was founded by 11-time World Surf League champion Kelly Slater, so many of the brand’s products were designed to be worn in and out of the water, and this one is no exception.
Cut from recycled polyester (Outerknown says it’s committed to ocean preservation and sustainable production practices), the shirt wicks away moisture and dries fast for maximum comfort. It also has anti-odor and sun protection properties. And speaking of the sun, the sleeves were designed with thumbholes for maximum skin coverage—and the hood comes in handy if you forget to pack a hat.
Surfers and water sports enthusiasts could also use the eyelets at the bottom hemline—just attach the string of your board shorts to them so the shirt doesn’t roll up during a wipeout.
Keep in mind: The shirt doesn’t have pockets, and the thumbholes might not be comfortable for people with longer arms.
Best wrinkle-free shirt for women: Eddie Bauer Women’s UPF Guide 2.0 Shirt
Buy it now at Eddie Bauer
Why we like it: Adding versatile items to your packing list helps you travel lighter and avoid overweight luggage fees. And this shirt entirely fits the bill thanks to its design and fabric.
The fit is inspired by safari shirts with two chest pockets and a stylish collar. If you are traveling somewhere hot, roll up the sleeves—the snap closures will keep them in place.
The shirt’s material is a high-performance blend of polyester and nylon, which is lightweight, so it folds very compactly. At the same time, the fabric provides good sun protection if you want to wear it during summer hikes or as a cover-up on the beach. This piece can also make a good layer during the winter, as it wicks away moisture and dries fast to keep your body comfortable and dry in the cold. We also noticed that the fabric is super easy to wash and keep clean even while traveling since it doesn’t show wrinkles.
Keep in mind: The pockets sit flat, so they don’t fit much in them. Plus, the fabric is thin, so placing something small but heavy deforms the shirt’s look.
Best wrinkle-free pants for men: Vuori Aim Pant
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY VUORI
Buy it now at Vuori
Why we like it: A pair of classic chino pants can go a long way since the silhouette can be paired with T-shirts for a casual look or button-downs for more formal outfits. Traditionally, chino pants are made from cotton, which wrinkles a lot when folded. But Vuori reimagined this classic style in a stretchy and lightweight poly/cotton/elastane blend that’s travel-friendly and stylish.
The lightweight material doesn’t wrinkle but holds its structure thanks to the little bit of cotton in it. It also dries much faster than regular chinos and has anti-odor properties, making the pants suitable for playing golf, for example. The legs have a tailored cut, so they won’t fit very loosely but will taper toward the bottom.
Keep in mind: Unfortunately, these pants only come in a single inseam length—32 inches, which can be an issue for taller men.
Best wrinkle-free pants for women: Athleta Endless Cargo High-Rise
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY ATHLETA
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Why we like it: Athleta’s athleisure pieces stand out with their versatility and quality construction. We’ve tested many of their pants on long-haul flights, workouts, and hikes, including the Endless Cargo pants, which are elegant and functional. It has the silhouette of semi-fitted classic cargo pants, with two side pockets, large enough to fit a smartphone or passport, that securely close with snap buttons. Two more zippered pockets can hold smaller essentials, while a duo of back pockets are a good place to stash cards. The tapered legs are finished with adjustable hems, transforming their silhouette into track pants.
The fabric is quite stretchy, too, but it holds its shape quite well and won’t stretch out with time.
Keep in mind: They have a slip-on waist, and the legs are designed to reach ankle-length.
Best wrinkle-free T-shirt for men: Men’s Short Sleeve Dry Fit Active Crew Neck T-Shirt
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY AMAZON
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Why we like it: This pack of five crewneck T-shirts can go a long way. Crafted from polyester and spandex, they are versatile and can accompany you on hikes, trips to the gym, or exploring new destinations.
They are easy to slip on, and the material is durable yet soft. Even if you break a sweat, the stretchy fabric will absorb it and keep it away from your body so you can enjoy your activities comfortably. We also like the cut—it fits slightly loose for a casual yet modern look. If you’re a fan of oversized T-shirts, then we suggest you size up (they come in sizes from small to three-times extra large).
Keep in mind: Depending on body type and fitness level, the sleeves might fit a bit tighter around the triceps and underarms.
Best wrinkle-free T-shirt for women: Patagonia Women’s Capilene Cool Daily Shirt
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY PATAGONIA
Buy it now at Patagonia
Why we like it: If you prefer to avoid packing tops for every activity you’ve planned on your vacation, this Patagonia T-shirt might be a good solution. You can travel in it as well as wear it surfing, hiking, or running, and you’ll be just as comfortable.
Thanks to its roomy fit, it doesn’t restrain your movements and can also serve as a winter base layer. Patagonia has treated the polyester fabric with anti-odor and moisture-wicking finishes to ensure the T-shirts keep you cool and regulate your body temperature regardless of how vigorous your activities are. Its anti-wrinkle properties make it look like you just put it on.
Keep in mind: Some people might find the scoop neck too tight and the fit too loose.
Best wrinkle-free lounge set for women: Pretty Garden Women’s Two Piece Pajamas Set
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: This wrinkle-resistant set is a best-seller for a few reasons: t has a comfortable tracksuit fit and can double as a travel outfit or lounge attire. The top has a crew neckline and relaxed fit with dropped shoulders for a cool look that’s not too slouchy.
Additionally, the bottoms have a drawstring to allow you to adjust the fit, as well as wide legs with elasticized hemlines to ensure maximum comfort whether you’re sitting, walking, or running. Slanted pockets on the side provide a convenient way to store belongings such as keys and credit cards.
The machine-washable fabric features quick-drying and wrinkle-resistant polyester, breathable cotton, and some elastane for extra stretch. This adds functionality to the set and makes it a good one-and-done travel outfit option.
Keep in mind: The pockets don’t have zippers and the material is fairly thin.
Best wrinkle-free lounge set for men: COOFANDY Sweatsuit
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY AMAZON
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Why we like it: This wrinkle-resistant duo, consisting of a zippered hoodie and track pants, is our pick for the best lounge set for men. In addition to its cool casual look, functionality, and comfort, both pieces can be worn separately or together, making the set pretty multifunctional. You can regulate your body temperature more efficiently with a zippered hoodie, and for those who have trouble slipping on hoodies, this is a great option. It features two pockets and drawstrings to keep the hood in place in windy weather.
The matching track pants were designed for mobility and comfort, and the elasticized hemlines keep them in place.
Keep in mind: This set is made from polyester, so it is fairly thin. If the weather is cold, plan to wear something else and use the set as base layers.
Best wrinkle-free romper: Athleta Brooklyn Utility Romper
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY ATHLETA
Buy it now at Athleta
Why we like it: It is hard to beat rompers and jumpsuits when it comes to practicality. The reason why we chose this Athleta romper as the best is because of its elegant design and many features, all a result of the durable fabric that the company produces from recycled polyester.
The sleeveless silhouette and wide legs add extra functionality and allow you to enjoy any activity unbothered by restrictive fabric. The overall fit is comfortable yet very elegant, with two deep patch pockets and two more zippered in the back.
The wrinkle-resistant fabric will have you reach for this piece again and again. Not only does it always look impeccable, but it’s also breathable and constructed to resist light tears and abrasions.
Keep in mind: Just like with every fitted romper at the waist, you have to keep in mind that the proportions might not suit your body type or height.
Best wrinkle-free shorts for men: The North Face Rolling Sun 7″ Packable Shorts
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY REI
Buy it now at REI
Why we like it: With their packable design (the brand provides you with a storage case) and high-performance wrinkle-resistant construction, this pair of North Face shorts is the best in this category.
They are an especially good fit for hikers, water sports enthusiasts, or travelers who plan to spend time around water. The polyester fabric has excellent fast-drying properties as it spreads moisture in all directions to speed up dry time and evaporation, while its texture keeps it away from the body, allowing you to continue to move freely. Additionally, the fabric has UPF 40, which adds extra protection from the sun.
You can store small valuables in the shorts’ four pockets, which close securely. Lastly, they come in two inseam lengths—seven and nine inches—and are available here through two different retailers.
Keep in mind: The waist is not elasticized, so the fit in that area cannot be adjusted.
Best wrinkle-free shorts for women: Patagonia Women’s Fleetwith Shorts
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY PATAGONIA
Buy it now at Patagonia
Why we like it: Often, the small details make a piece stand out, and this is true for this pair of Patagonia shorts.
The regular fit offers extra space around the thighs for ease of mobility. Additionally, the wrinkle-free fabric has some elastane for comfort. The elasticized high-waist can be further secured with the drawstring, and the four pockets—two slanted ones on the sides and two zippered ones in the back—will come in handy for essentials like earphones, keys, cash, or lip balm.
And if your travels happen to take you near water, the quick-drying polyester material of this pair of shorts will keep you cool and comfortable.
Keep in mind: This style only comes in a single inseam length—five inches—and we would have liked to see it in a longer version for people who’d like more coverage.
How we chose the best wrinkle-free travel clothes
As an experienced traveler, I have tested dozens of wrinkle-free clothing pieces for trips ranging from quick car rides to 36-hour travel days with multiple layovers and through several time zones and climates. For this story, I also took into consideration the following factors when narrowing down the list of the best wrinkle-free clothing:
Reviews: I read dozens of online reviews by verified buyers to better understand their experience with a particular item and what they loved—or not so much—about it.
Brand reputation: This is crucial as it determines how serious a brand is about the quality of its products. I favored companies focusing on sustainable practices and substantial investment in research to improve their materials, design, and product performance.
Material: This is the number one factor travelers consider when buying wrinkle-resistant clothing. I researched the best materials, all their features, and ease of care before making my picks.
Size options: I favored companies that make their clothing available for a wide range of sizes and body types.
Style and fit: Most picks on the list have a classic fit that enables you to lounge, move, and sit in comfort during your travels
Care: I have avoided clothing items that require dry-cleaning or hand-washing, as this is not easy to accommodate while traveling. In the few cases where this is needed, I have explicitly stated that special care is required to maintain an item clean.
Tips for buying wrinkle-resistant clothing
Before you click add to cart, here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for any wrinkle-resistant clothing:
Material
Creasing is normal for most natural fabrics (with the exception of wool and cashmere), which is why the majority of wrinkle-resistant materials are synthetic. However, it’s also essential to differentiate between them as some synthetic materials can also be prone to wrinkling. Nylon and polyester, widely used in sportswear, are two of the best fabrics for this type of clothing. Often, brands blend them with natural materials such as cotton or linen to make them more breathable, and depending on the composition, this might affect their resistance to creasing.
Size options
Nowadays, most performance and sportswear companies make their products available in a wide range of sizes. Some will also offer pants in at least two lengths to accommodate taller people. Before you purchase an item in your regular size, check the brand’s sizing guide to ensure that it will fit you comfortably, as some items might run small or large based on company standards or their particular fit or design features. Reading customer reviews of the item will also help you determine what size will best fit you.
Quality
The overall quality of the garment will depend on several factors, including the strength and composition of the fabric as well as its features. Pockets, for example, are essential when traveling because they help you store—and access easily—essentials such as travel documents, headphones, and cards.
Style and Fit
Keep comfort in mind when shopping for travel clothing. Tight-fitting T-shirts or trousers will restrict your movements unless they have some stretch in them (2 or 3 percent of elastane, which is also wrinkle-resistant, is ideal). Slightly loose-fitting pieces in classic or regular fit are the best. Oversized clothing is bulkier and takes valuable real estate in your suitcase or backpack.
And while I love wearing colors, when it comes to my travel outfit, I buy garments in darker shades or prints that won’t show drink, food, or dirt stains.
Features
Travel clothing should be functional. Look out for multiple pockets on trousers, shorts, and even shirts that add storage. Hoodies and shirts with hoods are also a good idea. Zip-off pants save luggage space, while zippered sweatshirts allow you to cool off without taking off the entire garment. At the same time, avoid clothing with too many buttons, sequin detailing, and see-through mesh panels (they can rip easily while you are on the go).
Frequently asked questions
What is the best material for wrinkle-free travel?
In general, synthetic materials, like nylon, polyester, spandex, and lyocell (and fabric blends featuring those materials), are the most preferred option from manufacturers.
Wool and cashmere are the only two natural fabrics not prone to wrinkling.
How do you keep clothes wrinkle-free on vacation?
Keep in mind that no item of clothing will remain completely wrinkle-free if you keep it tightly folded into a suitcase for days. So once at your destination, hang larger pieces like dresses, trousers, and maxi skirts on hangers.
How do you unwrinkle clothes when traveling?
If you see creases on your garments and don’t have a steamer or an iron readily available, a good trick is to run the hot water in the bathroom of your hotel room until the bathroom fills with steam, close the door, and hang the clothes there for 10 to 15 minutes. Wrinkle-release sprays like this one by Bounty or this one by Downy are also an excellent solution to the problem. Just spray the garment and leave it to air-dry.
Dobrina Zhekova is a lifestyle journalist based in Alexandria, Virginia. She has over a decade of editorial experience in print and digital media in Europe and the U.S. Her writing has appeared on Travel and Leisure, Forbes, InStyle, Vogue, Departures.com, Elle, Harpers Bazaar, Sunset.com, and more. Dobrina is an expert on all things travel and design—from the chicest hotels in Lisbon to the latest immersive exhibition in Paris. She has written extensively about fashion, beauty, technology, and shopping, including reviewing products to make your next trip more enjoyable.
*Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
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