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Looking for the best women’s shorts for travel? Whether you need breathable linen, wrinkle-resistant fabrics, or stylish long shorts for sightseeing, these comfortable, packable picks are perfect for every summer vacation.
Best Women’s Shorts for Travel
Table Of Contents
Shorts are an essential travel wardrobe staple, offering comfort, versatility, and style for various climates and adventures. Whether you’re wandering sun-soaked beaches, exploring vibrant city streets, or hiking through scenic trails, having the right pair of shorts can make all the difference.
Here’s our handpicked selection of the best shorts for women, specifically chosen for their travel-friendly features, comfort, and effortless style.
Best Lightweight and Packable Womens Shorts
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince
Quince 100% European Linen Shorts
If you’re traveling to a hot, humid destination like Southeast Asia or the Mediterranean, linen is your best friend. Quince’s linen shorts are breathable, chic, and highly packable. These pull-on shorts for travel feature an elastic waistband and side pockets, and the high-waisted linen-blend style makes them perfect for tucking in a tee or pairing with a cropped blouse.
They’re wrinkle-resistant enough to look polished straight out of your suitcase and stylish enough for beach dinners or walking tours.
Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly!
Shop Sizes XS-3X: Spanx | Nordstrom
Spanx Supersmooth Stretch Twill 7” Shorts
Comfort meets confidence with Spanx’s supersmooth shorts. These soft women’s shorts offer light shaping with a smoothing waistband and no front seam, making them incredibly flattering. The twill fabric has just the right amount of stretch for long sightseeing days, and the mid-thigh 7″ version is perfect for pairing with sandals, sneakers, or even wedges.
Whether you’re strolling through Lisbon or navigating airport terminals, these are some of the best shorts for women for vacation.
For those who prefer a bit more coverage, the 9″ version offers a longer silhouette while maintaining the same sleek, supportive fit.
Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Vuori
Vuori Villa Shorts
Vuori’s Villa Shorts are perfect for minimalist travelers who prioritize comfort without sacrificing style. These lightweight women’s summer shorts are breathable, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking. Pair with a fitted tank or oversized button-down for versatile outfit options.
Whether you’re walking along the Amalfi Coast or relaxing at a beachside café in Tulum, the fabric adds polish, while the relaxed cut and elastic waistband allow for all-day ease.
Shop: Eddie Bauer
Sizes: 0-18 Regular | 0-14 Petite | 6-18 Tall | 18W-24W Plus
Eddie Bauer Willit Stretch Legend Wash Shorts
A great pair of shorts for active or adventurous travelers, Eddie Bauer’s Willit Stretch Shorts are made from a cotton-spandex blend that allows for unrestricted movement. These are excellent for day hikes, bike rides, or exploring rugged cities like Cusco or Istanbul.
They offer the durability you need with the softness you crave, and their packable, easy-care nature makes them great for multi-stop trips. Pair them with a breathable tank or an athletic tee for performance and polish.
Shop Sizes XXS-XL: Athleta
Athleta Wayfind High Rise 5″ Shorts
Athleta’s Wayfind shorts are one of the best examples of mid-rise walking shorts that look smart while delivering comfort. The stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric is ideal for sightseeing in warmer cities like Rome or Buenos Aires.
They hold their shape well, even after a full day of walking or sitting, and their flattering silhouette is perfect for women who want something a little more elevated than sporty shorts but just as comfortable.
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Chico’s
Chico’s Brigitte Pull-On Slim Shorts
Pull-on shorts are a travel dream, and Chico’s Brigitte Slim Shorts are no exception. With a wrinkle-resistant fabric and a flattering slim cut, they’re stylish enough for city exploration but stretchy enough for all-day wear.
They’re great for pairing with dressy sandals and a blouse for a cruise dinner or wearing with sneakers and a tee for a day in the market.
Shop Sizes 0-14: Zara
Zara Mom Fit Denim Shorts
Jean shorts are a must-have in any travel wardrobe, and Zara’s Mom Fit Denim Shorts offer just the right amount of retro style and modern comfort.These denim shorts women love are durable and chic, making them a great pick for road trips, beach towns, or anywhere you want a casual, laid-back vibe.
The high waist is perfect for pairing with tucked-in tanks or cropped tops, and the cotton blend adds breathability for summer days. They’re some of the most versatile women’s jean shorts you can pack.
Shop: Banana Republic
Sizes: 0-20 Regular | 00-10 Petite
Banana Republic High-Rise Shorts
These stylish women’s shorts for vacation combine two travel-friendly fabrics—Tencel and linen—for a breathable, wrinkle-resistant finish that feels as good as it looks.
The high-rise cut is flattering, and the tailored look makes them feel more elevated than your typical summer shorts. Whether you’re window shopping in Paris or dining al fresco in Seville, these shorts can easily be dressed up or down.
Womens Long Shorts
Shop: Lands’ End
Sizes: 2-18 Regular | 2-18 Petite | 16W-26W
Lands’ End Classic 12″ Chino Shorts
These are among the best long shorts women can pack for extended trips. With their classic structure and durable cotton blend, they’re designed for travelers who value modesty, comfort, and function.
Ideal for conservative destinations or outdoor activities that require a bit more sun protection. These wrinkle-resistant shorts are a top pick for easy-care travel shorts.
Shop: Talbots
Sizes: 2-18 Regular | 0-16 Petite | 14-24 Plus | 14-22 Petite Plus
Talbots Perfect 9” Shorts
Tailored yet relaxed, these long shorts women love are ideal for creating polished outfits while still staying cool. The 9-inch inseam is flattering for most body types and provides enough coverage for destinations that lean conservative.
Pair with a button-down shirt and ballet flats for brunch in Milan or a tank and espadrilles for a day exploring the Riviera.
Shop Sizes 0-16: Quince
Quince Organic Stretch Cotton Chino Bermuda Shorts
Comfortable, stretchy, and made from organic cotton, these chino-style long women’s shorts are ideal for travelers who want a clean, classic look. They’re wrinkle-resistant, breathable, and come in a range of neutral colors that blend effortlessly into any capsule wardrobe.
Whether you’re heading on a European river cruise or spending the weekend in Charleston, these packable women’s shorts will serve you well.
Shop: Eddie Bauer
Sizes: 0-18 Regular | 0-14 Petite | 6-18 Tall | 18W-24W Plus
Eddie Bauer Horizon Bermuda Shorts
Made for the outdoors but versatile enough for the city, these long shorts for women feature UPF protection, moisture-wicking fabric, and a lightweight design that works in heat and humidity.
The zippered pockets are great for carrying essentials without a purse. If you’re going on an active trip—think Costa Rica, Arizona, or South Africa—these are your go-to multi-purpose shorts for travel. Plus, they come in plus size long shorts options, making them a great fit for a variety of travelers.
Shop: Columbia
Sizes: XS-XXL Standard | 1X-3X Plus
Columbia All Seasons Long Shorts
Columbia’s performance shorts are a reliable option for anyone going on an active or adventure-filled trip. The quick-dry material makes these suitable for jungle hikes or long sightseeing days.
With options like long jean shorts womens styles and women’s long athletic shorts, Columbia nails the balance between rugged function and lightweight packability.
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Chico’s
Chico’s Zenergy UPF Neema Cargo Shorts
If you want shorts with utility, comfort, and a clean silhouette, these UPF cargo shorts are a winner. They’re protective, moisture-wicking, and easy to care for, making them some of the best shorts for women for vacation in hot or sunny destinations.
Wear them while sightseeing in Petra or hiking around Machu Picchu—they’ll keep up with you.
Shop: Banana Republic
Sizes: 0-20 Regular | 00-10 Petite
Banana Republic Drapey Twill Bermuda Short
For travelers who prefer long shorts women find flattering and sophisticated, these Bermuda shorts offer polished style in a travel-friendly package. Made from lightweight twill, they have a tailored silhouette that works well with sandals, loafers, or even flats.
Great for modest destinations, these are breathable travel shorts that also feel elevated enough for upscale lunches or cultural excursions.
Kut From the Kloth Jane High Rise Shorts | Sizes 00-18
Bonus: Denim + Jean Shorts
Jean shorts remain a travel essential, and the right pair can elevate your look while offering all-day comfort.
- Jean shorts for women come in many lengths and styles, from high-waisted short shorts to long jean shorts. Whether you prefer a structured fit or stretchy comfort, they’re easy to pair with tanks or button-downs.
- Denim shorts women love often feature stretch panels, raw hems, and mid-rise cuts that flatter a variety of body types.
- Long denim shorts and ladies long shorts are ideal for modest destinations or those seeking more sun coverage.
- For athletic travelers, Nike long shorts or Adidas long shorts provide sport-ready support with a clean silhouette.
Lands End Creaseless High Rise 7″ Shorts
Travel Shorts: Styling & Packing Tips
- Pack a Mix of Lengths: Bring a couple of short shorts and a pair of long shorts to cover different settings and cultural norms.
- Choose Versatile Colors: Neutral tones like black, khaki, navy, and olive pair easily with your favorite tops.
- Use Performance Fabrics: Look for wrinkle-resistant, moisture-wicking fabrics that hold up well on the road.
- Pair Smartly: Pair soft women’s shorts with tailored tops, and wear long shorts with lightweight tanks or blouses.
- Care with Ease: Rayon, viscose, and cotton shorts for travel are easy to hand-wash and dry quickly—ideal for backpackers and minimalists.
Why These Are the Best Women’s Shorts for Travel
A good pair of shorts can make your travel days more comfortable. Whether you prefer denim, linen, twill, or performance blends, these travel shorts combine functionality and style with the thoughtful features every female traveler needs—quick-dry fabrics, wrinkle resistance, sun protection, and flattering fits.
From jean shorts and printed summer shorts to breathable bermudas and high-waisted linen-blend favorites, these are the most versatile, comfortable, and travel-friendly women’s shorts to pack for your next trip, wherever in the world that may be.
Shorts, summer, and travel; sounds like paradise! What are your favorite summer shorts for women? Share and comment below!
For more summer fashion tips, please read:
- Top Summer Dresses for a Trip Abroad – Paris Perfect
- Comfortable Sandals for Hot Weather Vacations
- Best Tank Tops for Women
- Cute Summer Rompers
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is there a link to the cute shorts you are wearing (the black/purpish pink?) so cute!
Hi Theresa, the Violet Diamond Shorts were from Soul Escape but I don’t think the company still exists any more. I brought them a few years ago. 🙂
I’ve been traveling to Italy now annually for 25 years. Neither Italian women nor Italian men wear shorts, except at the seaside, and even then not so much. Unless you want to show you are a tourist, particularly an American tourist, better to leave your shorts at home, particularly short shorts.
Hi Kathy, thank you for taking the time to share your packing advice for Italy with us! Happy travels! ?
where is soul escape?
I think they went out of business 🙁
I have had shorts on my mind and am a bit skiddish about finding some that fit well with my body shape. I love seeing all these options. Thank you.
Glad you like the article Shayna 🙂 If you love shorts then give some a go!
Love them all…
🙂
Those violet diamond shorts are definitely cute. I definitely wouldn’t mind wearing those! They look super comfy!!
🙂 I totally agree!
If shorts not good after 30 then I’ve had a 20yr fashion faux pas. Yikes.
I totally love them after 30 Jacqueline! Keep wearing them 🙂
I love shorts all summer, I’m not interested in spending my interested trying not to flash people in skirts, but one problem I’ve noticed with shorts shopping lately is that a lot of the more relaxed, breezy style shorts lately look really weird when I put them on. I tend to get a weird FUPA-looking, diaper-ish baggy front! It is the weirdest thing and I’ve noticed it across a number of brands. I have no idea what causes it! I’m really interested in hearing about the chambray shorts you got and if you see the same strange effect.
I totally understand what you mean, and have had this problem in the past! These shorts don’t have that affect on me, which is why I love them!
Hahahaha, what?? No shorts after 30?? Hahahaha….. who said that, a 20 year old?
I agree Kiki! If you have the legs then go for it 🙂 I absolutely love this style and brand!