With the holiday season quickly approaching, we foresee tons of travel in your near future. Whether you’re venturing to the airport for a holiday vacation, hopping on a train to visit long-distance family, or taking a road trip to your favorite winter markets, one thing’s for sure: Comfort is non-negotiable. Sure, trusty leggings and cozy sweats are MVPs, but sometimes, you want to look a little less “just rolled out of bed” and a little more “effortless jet-setter.” Enter: travel pants.
When curating our list of the best travel pants, we held them to sky-high standards: They needed to be versatile enough to wear straight off the plane and into whatever adventure awaits, comfy enough for the bizarre yoga-esque positions you’ll find yourself in while attempting to sleep on along-haul flight, and stylish enough to pair seamlessly with the rest of your travel wardrobe (and avoid the dreaded overpacking guilt). Bonus points to pants with practical perks like wrinkle-resistance, technical fabrics, and — the holy grail — pockets!
From elevated joggers and ribbed sweater pants to pull-on trousers and roomy cargo pants (plus the odd sweatpant that we couldn’t resist), meet our 24 favorite travel companions ahead. Once you experience the magic of comfy, polished bottoms that don’t scream “athleisure overload,” we promise you’ll never look back.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these productswe may earn a commission.
We The Free Park Ave Pants
Laidback and utility-driven, these Free People cargo pants are built for travel days. An elastic waist keeps things comfortable, while roomy pockets stash essentials within reach.
We The Free Park Ave Pants, $, available at Free People
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Stevie Straight Pants
If a kick-flare pant isn’t in your travel lineup yet, prepare to wonder how you survived without one. This Old Navy style is ready to take you from the train to a work meeting to dinner.
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Stevie Straight Pants, $, available at Old Navy
Lululemon Dance Studio Mid-Rise Jogger
Pockets make the difference between good travel pants and great ones. This mid-rise cargo style from Lululemon ticks all the right boxes, blending travel-day function with comfy style.
Lululemon Dance Studio Mid-Rise Jogger, $, available at Lululemon
Ann Taylor Waffle Sweater Pant
You don’t need to get ready if you stay ready in these Ann Taylor sweater pants, which from afar look like a typical trouser, but up close are a cozy waffle-knit fabric.
Ann Taylor Waffle Sweater Pant, $, available at Ann Taylor
Reformation Julien Poplin Pant
A track pant is a staple for any athleisure look, but this silky poplin pair from Reformation is slightly more elevated so you can style with an oversized hoodie or a cashmere sweater and blazer.
Reformation Julien Poplin Pant, $, available at Reformation
Caslon Plus Pull-On Barrel Pants
The barrel pant bandwagon is still trucking along, likely because of the unique shape and extra leg room. They’ve made their case as an everyday staple, and when they come (specifically from Nordstrom) with an elastic waistband, they make their case as an ideal travel pant.
Caslon Plus Pull-On Barrel Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Damson Madder Tatianna Culotte
Roomy, crisp, and utility-coded, these Damson Madder high-waist culottes guarantee a comfy in-flight snooze and then looking polished straight off the plane into your travel plans.
Damson Madder Tatianna Culotte, $, available at Damson Madder
Gap Mid Rise Corduroy Baggy Pants
Corduroy isn’t just reserved for the holidays, and thanks to this effortlessly cool baggy style from Gap, you can wear it all fall and winter long.
Gap Mid Rise Corduroy Baggy Pants, $, available at Gap
Quince Washable Stretch Silk Palazzo Pants
While leggings can sometimes feel constricting, a pair of wide-leg palazzo pants is the antithesis. With plenty of air flow and wiggle room, you’ll feel comfortable — plus have the comfort of knowing they’re easily washable.
Quince Washable Stretch Silk Palazzo Pants, $, available at Quince
Zara Washed Studded Jogger Pants
Spice up your sweatpant game with a pair of Zara distressed, studded joggers that we could see any jet-setting rock star traveling in.
Zara Washed Studded Jogger Pants, $, available at Zara
Everlane The Pull-On Trouser in Tailor Twill
One of the great annoyances of trousers are when the buttons and zippers dig into our stomachs. The solution? A drawstring closure that can be adjusted to your preferred comfort level, like on this pair from Everlane.
Everlane The Pull-On Trouser in Tailor Twill, $, available at Everlane
Aerie Street Trouser
Part trouser, part lounge pant, this Aerie style is a no-brainer. Opt for a versatile solid colorway, or experiment with a versatile print like cheetah/leopard print.
Aerie Street Trouser, $, available at Aerie
H&M Denim Drawstring Pants
The illusion “sweatpant jean” trend may not be so controversial, especially for travel. Super-soft stretchy denim and a drawstring waistband? Sign us up for this H&M style.
H&M Denim Drawstring Pants, $, available at H&M
Ava & Viv Plus High-Rise French Terry Wide Leg Cargo Pants
Rather than a standard sweatpant, opt for a cargo lounge pant that offers extra edge (and pocket space). This affordable option from Target is guaranteed to delight.
Ava & Viv Plus High-Rise French Terry Wide Leg Cargo Pants, $, available at Target
Mango Knitted Pants with Elastic Waistband
We’re obsessed with knitted pants for cozy season because they’re perfect for everything from Netflix-binging and road tripping to fall activities.
Mango Knitted Pants with Elastic Waistband, $, available at Mango
Maeve The Colette Sweater Crop High-Rise Wide-Leg Pants
Your airport outfit doesn’t need to be boring. It can be professional and festive too with these Maeve by Anthropologie plaid and bow-adorned sweater pants.
Maeve The Colette Sweater Crop High-Rise Wide-Leg Pants, $, available at Anthropologie
Spanx AirEssentials Brushed Straight Leg Pant
Comfort meets polish: These straight-leg pants have a silky-soft feel, four-way stretch, and pintuck details for a more refined travel look — perfect for long-haul flights, road trips, and beyond.
SPANX AirEssentials Brushed Straight Leg Pant, $, available at SPANX
Madewell Pull-On Pants in Crepe
Again, a pull-on trouser can’t be beat. It will be the building block for your travel outfit and all your travel plans from daytime strolls to nighttime parties.
Madewell Pull-On Pants in Crepe, $, available at Madewell
Topshop Printed Wide Leg Pants
These funky wide-leg pants are begging to join your fall closet rotation. Roomy and silky, they guarantee comfort no matter those long your travel day is.
Topshop Printed Wide Leg Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Skims Oversized Double Waistband Pant
With seamlessly endless lounge pant options at Skims, you can’t go wrong with any of them. But we’re eyeing these sheen double-waistband pants that’ll standout from the rest of your sweats.
Skims Oversized Double Waistband Pant, $, available at Skims
J.Crew Cosmo Sweater Pant in Merino Wool
Stay warm and cozy all fall and winter long with a pair of J.Crew merino wool sweater pants that are so luxe, no one will know that you feel like you’re in a pair of pajama bottoms.
J.Crew Cosmo Sweater Pant in Merino Wool, $, available at J.Crew
Abercrombie & Fitch Lounge Brushed Wide Leg Sweatpant
A wide-leg pant is always a good idea for travel days when you want roominess. These bold Abercrombie & Fitch ones are also perfect for wearing knee-high boots underneath for extra warmth.
Abercrombie & Fitch Lounge Brushed Wide Leg Sweatpant, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch
Buck Mason Surplus Rib Weekender Pant
Lightweight, ribbed, and featuring a wide waistband that’s extra-comfortable for long travel days — we love to see these pants shine. Bonus: They are editor-approved.
Buck Mason Surplus Rib Weekender Pant, $, available at Buck Mason
Aritzia Homestretch Rib Pant
These stretchy ribbed pants are built for movement, whether you’re racing to your gate or walking the streets of a new city. Made from a heavyweight version of Aritzia’s cult-loved HomeStretch fabric, they hug in all the right places with a soft, cottony feel.
Aritzia Homestretch Rib Pant, $, available at Aritzia
We The Free Park Ave Pants
Laidback and utility-driven, these cargo pants are built for travel days. An elastic waist keeps things comfortable, while roomy pockets stash essentials within reach.
We The Free Park Ave Pants, $, available at Free People
Quince 100% Organic Cotton Gauze Straight Leg Pants
With a relaxed fit and an adjustable waist, these gauzy pants are equal parts comfort and cool for travel days and beyond.
Quince 100% Organic Cotton Gauze Straight Leg Pants, $, available at Quince
Aritzia HomeStretch Rib Pant
These stretchy ribbed pants are built for movement, whether you’re racing to your gate or exploring a new city. Made from a heavyweight version of Aritzia’s cult-loved HomeStretch fabric, they hug in all the right places with a soft, cottony feel.
Aritzia HomeStretch Rib Pant, $, available at Aritzia
Viens Avec Moi Crinkle Cotton Gauze Wide Leg Pants
Not into linen? Go for gauzy cotton instead — breezy, lightweight, and perfect for jetting to a warm-weather destination.
Viens Avec Moi Crinkle Cotton Gauze Wide Leg Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Stevie Straight Ankle Pants
If a kick-flare pant isn’t in your travel lineup yet, prepare to wonder how you survived without one.
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Stevie Straight Ankle Pants, $, available at Old Navy
Gap Stripe-Print Straight Pants
A jeans look with airy, pajama comfort.
Gap Cotton Gauze Denim Easy Barrel Pants, $, available at Gap
SPANX AirEssentials Brushed Straight Leg Pant
Comfort meets polish: These straight-leg pants have a silky-soft feel, four-way stretch, and pintuck details for a more refined travel look — perfect for long-haul flights, road trips, and beyond.
SPANX AirEssentials Brushed Straight Leg Pant, $, available at SPANX
J.Crew Cosmo Pant
A cotton-poplin pant to go with your favorite coordinating shirt? Yes, and yes.
J.Crew Cosmo Pant in Oxford Stripe, $, available at J.Crew
Caslon Wide Leg Crop Cotton Gauze Pants
Pajama-level swish meets go-anywhere polish. These linen-blend wide-legs are as easy as they are elevated.
Caslon Wide Leg Crop Cotton Gauze Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Lululemon Dance Studio Mid-Rise Jogger
Pockets make the difference between good travel pants and great ones. This mid-rise cargo style from Lululemon ticks all the right boxes, blending travel-day function with comfy style.
Lululemon Dance Studio Mid-Rise Jogger Full Length, $, available at Lululemon
Daily Practice by Anthropologie Messa Jumpsuit
The iconic swish of ’90s-inspired parachute pants is like an audible time machine, triggering nostalgic vibes we’re fully into for travel days.
Daily Practice by Anthropologie Messa Jumpsuit, $, available at Anthropologie
Treasure & Bond Drawstring Wide Leg Pants
Crisper than sweats, comfier than jeans — these wide-leg pants with a drawstring waist are polished enough to go straight from plane to plans.
Treasure and Bond Drawstring Wide Leg Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Adidas Originals 3 Stripes Wide Leg Pants
Travel-day icon status, unlocked — thanks to this teal three-stripe pair from Adidas.
Adidas 3 Stripes Wide Leg Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Universal Thread Pull-On Cargo Pants
Light, minimal, and made for breezing through travel (even when the journey gets stressful). Bonus: a comfy elastic waist and cargo pockets for keeping valuables secure.
Universal Thread Mid-Rise Relaxed Fit Pull-On Cargo Pants, $, available at Target
Reformation Ethan Linen Pant
The type of summer vacation pants you can wear on the plane and feel perfectly put-together in at your destination.
Reformation Ethan Linen Pant, $, available at Reformation
Ann Taylor The Pull-On Wide-Leg Sweater Pant
With a boxy white tee, sardine-girl-esque raffia bag, and slide sandals? *Chef’s kiss*
Ann Taylor The Pull-On Wide-Leg Sweater Pant, $, available at Ann Taylor
Damson Madder Tatianna Culotte
Roomy, crisp, and utility-coded, these high-waist culottes guarantee a comfy in-flight snooze while looking polished straight off the plane.
Damson Madder Tatianna Culotte, $, available at Damson Madder
Mango Stripe-print Straight Pants
These poplin pants in a bold blue-and-white stripe are a first-class choice for travel days.
Mango Stripe-print Straight Pants, $, available at Mango
Everlane The Utility Curve Pant
For a structured travel look with extra room through the leg, these barrel pants are the move (I should know, I own them.). Size up for maximum in-transit comfort.
Everlane The Utility Curve Pant, $, available at Everlane
Petal & Pup Hana Print Tie Waist Wide Leg Pants
These pants literally scream travel — the perfect pair for making a statement in transit and beyond.
Petal and Pup Hana Print Tie Waist Wide Leg Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Madewell Pull-On Barrel Pants
A bright, linen barrel leg for summer travel? Please and thank you.
Madewell Pull-On Barrel Pants, $, available at Madewell
Wit & Wisdom Ultra Skyrise Wide Leg Cargo Pants
Behold: The love child of your favorite cargos and barrel pants.
Wit and Wisdom Ultra Skyrise Wide Leg Cargo Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Abercrombie & Fitch Linen-Blend Pull-On Pant
There’s the little black dress, but a little black linen pant is a true queen of versatility.
Abercrombie and Fitch Linen-Blend Pull-On Pant, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch
OFFLINE By Aerie Real Me Xtra Trouser
Meet the Aerie Xtra Trouser: buttery-soft with a super-wide waistband that hugs comfortably and a wide leg to balance a fitted top. Pair it with an oversized shirt or classic sweater for a non-try-hard, polished vibe.
OFFLINE by Aerie Real Me XTRA High Waisted Trouser, $, available at Aerie
Buck Mason Surplus Rib Weekender Pant
Lightweight, ribbed, and featuring a wide waistband for a long travel day — we love to see it. Bonus: They are editor-approved.
Buck Mason Surplus Rib Weekender Pant, $, available at Buck Mason
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