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Looking for the top travel leggings? Our readers voted for the best leggings for women that travel. These are their picks!
Best Leggings for Women who Travel
Reader Asks: Can you please let me know where to buy travel leggings that have a great fit and durable material?
What are the best leggings for travel?
Many female travelers struggle to find the perfect leggings to add to their travel wardrobe. After sharing this dilemma on Travel Fashion Girl’s Facebook page our readers came up with great recommendations varying in styles, size availability, and price ranges.
Their tips turned into an awesome round-up of the best leggings for women that travel!
But should leggings really be classified as an essential travel item?
Sure, why not!
They’ve become a fashion staple that’s still going strong. They can be worn as pajama bottoms, while exercising, for retreats, to hike, and to layer under jeans/shorts/dresses/skirts in the cold or when traveling in conservative destinations.
Leggings come in a variety of colors, fabrics, prints and styles, so you’re sure to find the perfect pair whatever your style preference. They’re also ideal for any season; a pair with knit or fleece lining will keep you nice and snug.
While we don’t recommend legging to be worn as pants or trousers, they’re preferable when styled as part of an athleisure outfit and under a long top or tunic.
Not only are they mostly affordable, they score high on the comfort scale for a cozy in-flight outfit when paired with a long top, cardigan or jacket, and boots or sneakers.
Which of the best leggings for travel will you choose?
Here’s the best leggings for women according to our readers:
- Nordstrom Zella “Live In”
- Express
- J. Jill
- Angelina
- Anthropologie
- American Apparel
- Hue
- Simply Vera Wang
- Old Navy
- Icebreaker
Scroll down to learn why our readers voted for each of these leggings!
Zella “Live In” Black Leggings
Top Leggings: Nordstrom Zella “Live In” (available in plus size)
Readers say: “Zella Live In Leggings! They don’t ‘thin out’ like some leggings (no embarrassing see-through underwear), they’re reversible, and they’re the best quality!”
The Nordstrom Zella “Live In” Leggings come with a 100% customer recommendation and 5-star reviews–you can’t get better than that! Priced at $52, they are a bit costly; however, they offer some design features that you may find worth the investment.
The leggings are made of a stretchy, moisture-wicking knit and sewn with flat-lock seams, meaning they are insanely comfortable, breathable, and chafe-free.
The elastic waistband comes with a hidden key pocket–perfect for gym and travel use–and awesome if you’re traveling from warmer to cooler climates!
As a bonus, the black doesn’t fade after repeated washes. Love the quality!
They are TFG’s top pick, too! They truly are the best leggings ever! Buy it here!
Zella leggings come in a variety of colors and sizes including plus sizes and midi lengths that work well for petites!
Express Sexy Stretch Cropped Black Leggings
Best Legging Variety: Express
Readers say: “I like Express ones, they’re super durable.”
Express leggings are available in a variety of styles including cropped, split ankle, zip, and paneled. A variety of prints are also available, meaning you’re guaranteed to find the perfect pair.
The leggings are very durable and thick, lasting many washes, making them perfect for long traveling trips. The thickness means you can wear them with shorter tops and shirts, modestly.
They are made from a cotton/spandex mix, meaning the fabric is breathable, lightweight, and has the ability to absorb sweat–great for a long day’s wear.
Worth a mention is that these leggings run slightly long, so rolling up might be a necessity. These are probably the best leggings for slightly taller women. Buy it here!
If you’re on the shorter side, try their ankle leggings instead.
J Jill Ankle Length Black Leggings
Best Leggings for Petite: J. Jill
“They’re a little pricey, but worth it.”
J. Jill leggings are created from a pima cotton and Lycra spandex blend. Pima cotton is considered a superior blend of cotton, hence the $39 price tag. Marketers claim it lasts 50% longer than other forms of cotton, which makes a popular option for travel. They’re not only some of the best petite leggings but they also offer misses sizes, too.
The fabric is light to wear yet provides superior warmth, is absorbent, and extremely durable. Buy it here!
Angelina Plush Lined Warm Winter Leggings
Best Fleece Lined Leggings: Angelina
Readers say: “Angelina makes warm leggings that are great for the price. Can’t beat $10!”
For many readers, Angelina leggings are a no-brainer. They’re around $10, making them the best cheap leggings for winter. They’re easy to layer under other pants when it’s cold, or wear under dresses in autumn or spring.
They’re also super soft and cozy, so readers like wearing them at home in the cold, not only as winter layers when traveling.
They come in various colors, but the grey and navy are favorite hue (after color black, of course.) You can also buy them in 3-packs at a discounted rate.
Our suggestion: buy one pair first and if you like them, get the 3-pack next time. Buy it here!
Another popular style is Angelina’s winter fleece legging!
Anthropologie Spanx Seamless Leggings
Best Winter Leggings: Anthropologie
Readers say: “For colder months, Anthropologie makes an awesome fleece-lined pair.”
These are surely a no-brainer as some of the warmest and best leggings for winter, perfect for traveling to places with chilly weather. They’re exactly like normal leggings, but are lined with fleece, a fabric that insulates in cold weather.
These leggings are thin but warm, so even though they are lined, they don’t appear bulky. They are also opaque, meaning you have the option to wear shorter tops and shirts.
The fleece feels soft and very comfortable. I can’t think of anything better to keep you snug during harsh winter climates.
Some notes: these leggings have been known to snag, so be careful around rough textures, like Velcro. Also, they’re not available year-round, so make sure to get them when they’re in season! Buy it here!
Alternatively, there’s a similar more budget-friendly brand available on Amazon.
American Apparel Leggings Purple Legging
Best Fashion Leggings: American Apparel
Readers say: “I love the American Apparel ones; they are expensive but last forever. And their winter leggings are great for colder climates.”
Are you after a pair of party leggings? Look no further than American Apparel! Offering a range of leggings in their collection, including jersey, velvet, glossy, and printed, you have a diverse range to choose from.
A popular choice is the high-waisted gloss leggings, available in a wide variety of colors. They are stretchy, durable, and thick–perfect for dressier occasions. Buy it here!
For cold weather layering, opt for their winter style! For a classic pair, try this popular choice!
Espresso Hue Ultra Legging with Wide Waistband
Most Comfortable Leggings: Hue (available in plus size)
Hue Leggings are known for their versatile styles, durability, and quality. The Ultra leggings with wide waistband are available in a range of sizes, from X-Small to 3X and are insanely popular. They don’t offer much tummy control but many women find the waistband to be flattering offering some support in the tummy area.
There are mixed reviews about them being see-through or not – but leggings really should be worn layered under a dress or long blouse that covers all the essential areas. Buy it here!
Simply Vera Vera Wang Black Leggings
Best Designer Inspired Leggings: Simply Vera Wang
“I love Vera Wang, they have lasted a long time, look great, and can be found easily!”
Vera Wang’s premium fashion line Simply Vera Vera Wang, gives you the chance to purchase on-trend designer-style pieces at affordable prices. The leggings offer a variety of fabrics, styles, colors, and the designer’s signature bold prints.
They are definitely fun, adding a splash of color or print to your travel wardrobe. There’s an extended size range, too! This is the perfect chance to get your hands on a designer piece, without shelling out the significant price tag. Buy it here!
Also available on Amazon.
Cheapest Leggings: Old Navy
Readers say: “The $10 ones in Old Navy survive lots!”
Available in black and dark grey, these are the best leggings for women who want a casual option. If you’re after an everyday basic pair, Old Navy leggings fit the bill.
They’re versatile; they look great with everything from sweats to party dresses, however, they could be considered quite thin (although not see-through). For comfort, pair these leggings with longer tops or dresses.
For traveling purposes, these leggings are great: they are comfortable enough to withstand long flights, are lightweight, and can be effortlessly mixed and matched. This helps eliminate the need for large luggage and the inexpensive price leaves extra pocket money for bikini shopping!
They are described as soft, stretchy, and flattering. With a price tag of just over $10, they are great value for the money. Some reviewers note that these leggings have inconsistent sizing issues; be sure to try before you buy. Buy it here!
Here you can find a full listing of all their leggings including maternity, plus size, and athletic styles.
Long Lengths: Icebreaker Villa’s
Readers say: ” Great for those of us with freakishly long legs, but they’re an investment.”
Great for outdoors, these are the leggings “you’ll never want to take off,” made from lightweight and soft pure merino rib fabric (a great natural alternative to synthetics). They fit close to the body to regulate temperature without overheating. Smart!
These Icebreaker leggings have a casual fit, meaning they look great under any clothing, and provide the ultimate comfort with a low-riding elasticated waistband and relaxed cuffs.
The best black leggings are the ones that don’t fade. Athletic materials are the ideal for this. Buy it here!
Here’s a quick overview for each of these leggings for travel:
| BRAND / MODEL | READERS SAY | RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
Zella "Live In" Black Leggings |
“This comes with a 100% customer recommendation and 5-star reviews--you can't get better than that! Priced at $52, they are a bit costly; however, they offer some design features that you may find worth the investment.” | Check Price | |
|
Express Sexy Stretch Cropped Black Leggings |
“The leggings are very durable and thick, lasting many washes, making them perfect for long traveling trips. The thickness means you can wear them with shorter tops and shirts, modestly.” | Check Price | |
J Jill Ankle Length Black Leggings |
“The fabric is light to wear yet provides superior warmth, is absorbent, and extremely durable.” | Check Price | |
Angelina Plush Lined Warm Winter Leggings |
“They're around $10, making them the best cheap leggings for winter. They're easy to layer under other pants when it's cold, or wear under dresses in autumn or spring.” | Check Price | |
|
Anthropologie Spanx Seamless Leggings |
“These are surely a no-brainer as some of the warmest and best leggings for winter, perfect for traveling to places with chilly weather.” | Check Price | |
|
American Apparel Leggings Purple Legging |
“Offering a range of leggings in their collection, including jersey, velvet, glossy, and printed, you have a diverse range to choose from.” | Check Price | |
|
Espresso Hue Ultra Legging with Wide Waistband |
“Hue Leggings are known for their versatile styles, durability, and quality. The Ultra leggings with wide waistband are available in a range of sizes, from X-Small to 3X and are insanely popular.” | Check Price | |
|
Simply Vera Vera Wang Black Leggings |
"Vera Wang’s premium fashion line Simply Vera Vera Wang, gives you the chance to purchase on-trend designer-style pieces at affordable prices." | Check Price | |
|
Old Navy Long Black Leggings |
"Available in black and dark grey, these are the best leggings for women who want a casual option. If you’re after an everyday basic pair, Old Navy leggings fit the bill." | Check Price | |
|
Icebreaker Villa's |
"Great for outdoors, these are the leggings "you'll never want to take off," made from lightweight and soft pure merino rib fabric (a great natural alternative to synthetics)." | Check Price |
What are your favorite travel leggings? Share in the comments!
For more TFG’s top travel fashion picks, please read:
- How to Travel in One Bag for ANY Trip
- The Best Travel Shoulder Bags for Women
- Choose the Best Travel Shoes for Your Trip
- The Best Travel Pants for Women
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Just came across your post, so funny! and realistic. Love leggings but never wear them outside the house, feel too nakey, but you do raise some interesting points haha!
Hi Soumya, thank you for your lovely comment, so pleased your enjoyed the post!! 🙂
Total Shaper Leggings by Calzedonia are also good
Girlfriend Collective are my new favourite leggings. They fit snug and have nice long legs. They wear amazing. My first pair I hardly took off for the first two months and they look just as good as the new ones I just bought! The company is making them in Vietnam and giving the workers a good wage and using recycled material in their product. Win, win, win!
Leggings are very flexible. Its one of those that I can anywhere. I have a lot of it from Cicihot because I travel a lot and I want to save space in my luggage for other things.
Thank you for recommending something as cheap as Old Navy! Saved my life!
Love Old Navy!
I have found that the Old Navy ones while affordable tend to become see through after a few washes. I have loved all the Simply Vera ones I have had.
Good feedback Anelm thanks!
Just looked at the Zella leggings on Nordstrom and they have a ton of recent bad reviews saying that they have switched to a newer fabric that is see-through and tears easily. Now I’m scared to try them! Has anyone bought the Zella leggings recently?
Hi Jane, I haven’t tried the new fabric but I’ll leave your comment on here in case someone has experience with the new leggings.
I bought Zella leggings last March and love love love them. The thicker fabric holds me in all places that I need. They’re high waisted. I haven’t had any issues other than the black matching other blacks.
Zella leggings look amazing. My husband is travelling to the US in July and I have added this to my list of “needs” aka things he needs to get back 🙂
good thinking! they’re awesome 🙂
Why can’t I find white leggings. I’m thinking the pants that Indian women wear called Chudidar come in white, they’re attractive when paired with a tunic for travel and are versatile for summer travel.
Hi Lisa, I just a had a quick look on Amazon and found several styles: http://amzn.to/2uizUgs
Hi Alex.
Wearing leggings is a sensitive subject for some.
As a person who regularly wears leggings as pants, I think that the people who would antagonize me for it need to simply grow up. I remember when people began wearing leggings as pants, and there was always that one person who would share a Facebook post about it, or proclaim something about them not being pants. I remember when every girl that wore leggings was apparently a “prostitute”, but leggings are still apparently “the best thing to ever happen to men”. You can’t win.
They’re made of material that is intended to go on my lower body. They are the shape of pants. They cover me adequately so that I don’t break nudity laws. Therefore, they are pants.
All leggings are nice but ultra warm was beautiful.
Awesome! Thanks for the recommendation!
I’m new to the whole legging trend, but have recently come to love it. I’m a huge fan of the Icebreakers. Ridiculously soft and warm, easy to wash by hand or machine and their Villa Leggings are looser at the ankles which give them more of a pants look (not to be confused with their Villa pants, which are also amazing) which makes them a bit more versatile. They are a bit pricey, but well worth the investment. Eddie Bauer also makes a stretch pant that is straight at the ankle, which you can get between $30 and $80 depending on sales. They’re a little more shiny than the icebreakers and therefore not for everyone, but they’re still a good look.
Thanks for the help Rachel! That’s a great tip!
I would also add a brand called 90 degrees. They feel like second skin, are warm, and breathable. I bought a pair recently and LOVE them. They are around $30-$50 but can also be found at discount stores like Marshalls and TJ Maxx on the cheap. Happy life in leggings all!
Great tip Jean thank you!
nice artical.thanks
Thanks for reading!
Thank you for all the information. I definitely love traveling in leggings. Because they are light weight, and more comfortable and the best is no wrinkles.
Totally agree! Love them!
I like lularoe. They come in tall and curvy and one size. They are only $25 and butter soft. I don’t sell them, just spreading my obsession.
Thanks for sharing this Sara 🙂 It’s Always good to hear what other people love!
I agree, Sara! I love leggings and have them in other brands, but once I found LuLaRoe…well, they are the best! So soft, wash like a dream (wash cold, just hang to dry as they dry fast), and are so comfortable. They are light-weight…very good for Florida’s hot climate…even in summer. Yet not flimsy at all! I can’t wait to travel with them, with a floaty tunic. LuLaRoe all the way!
Thanks for your comment Pat! Glad you have found leggings that work for you! Obviously it is challenging with so many products on the market to find the right kind for you! Happy travels Pat!
Travel Girl – I agree about LuLaRoe! So much so that I became a consultant and would love to gift you a pair of leggings! Please PM me on Facebook at Dobritte Norris and I will send you a pair! They will change your life!
Thank you so much for Dobritte!
Going on a European cruise in a couple of weeks, I love the Lularoe print leggings and was wondering if the are popular in France, Italy, Scottland… I don’t want to stand out like a sore thumb.
Hi Kathy, activewear as clothing isn’t as popular in Europe as it is in the US. If you want to wear leggings, I’d opt for a solid color like black. Here are more tips: https://travelfashiongirl.com/the-only-backpacking-packing-list-for-europe-youll-ever-need/
I bought my first pair of LulaRoe loved them in the fact they are soft. However, they are thin and the first time I wore them I got 3 snags in them from my dog. I prefer a legging that is a bit thicker to hold me in.
OMG! I just found this blog today and I love it!!!! Thank you for all the information. I definitely looooove traveling in leggings because they are light weight, very easy to pack, fit everywhere and the best is no wrinkles!!!!! My favorite leggings are from a site that sells latino clothing because they have a great fit and shape my butt. 🙂 You can find them here http://www.caronboutique.com/mdc/en/1157-leggings-jeggings
Glad you like it 🙂 I totally agree about leggings! They are great for travel 🙂
Very helpful article, thank you! Adea’s are now $98, though, so they may not be the best option now because of the price…
Hi Emi! I think they’ve changed them and now they’re a thicker more pant like fabric. That might explain the difference in price?
Hi,
I am 60 and short (5’3″). Smallish waist and hips, but thicker legs. I am traveling to NYC and LA on the same trip. I find Zella a bit too constricting for me. What do you suggest for two different climates in the same week? What would not be too hot for LA, yet good coverage for older legs
Hi Susan, here is our full guide on how to pack for two climates in the same week: http://goo.gl/VIv7bV Hope you have a wonderful trip!
I wear the Athleta high waist Metro Leggings. I love them so much and have two pairs in flint gray and navy blue!
Athleta has awesome travel clothes!
I am an l /xl in tummy area …..average height 5 6 but I find tat most. Of the leggings are way too long. Do u have a suggestion as to a brand that would have choices oflength
VIV Leggings on Amazon, they are the best.
Good tip Mary Ellen, thanks!
The best brand ever if you have a tummy are Lysse! They have a high waist band, and are very well made. Not cheap, but well worth it.
Very useful website ever! 🙂 Love
Thanks Merlinda!
Thanks a million, Alex for this entry on leggings. I have lived in the US for about 30 years and just discovered this Fall how much I love wearing them. But I realize that they might be not comfortable for long airplane trips: doesn’t the elasticized waist cut into your skin?
Thanks again and have a nice Sunday.
nga
Hi Nga! Glad you found a new love for this item 🙂 I suppose comfort depends on the leggings you wear. I find the wide band style from the Zella line at Nordstrom to be very comfortable. Let me know which ones you choose!
Forever21’s plus size basic legging is only $5
Forever 21 is awesome! Great add!
Forever 21 has $3.90 basic leggings that are 95%cotton/5%spandex that last into infinity. I have 12 pairs that I rotate. Comfy and so strong. When it drops below 30 degrees, I opt for their sweater leghings. You can walk in the cold for hours in these. They’re $13 on sale now!
Great tip Jade, thanks!
So, I really love the idea of the Adea’s leggings, but they aren’t available. Any substitutes that you know of?!
PS – I use your blog for every trip and, most recently, have sent my parents packing lists from here to prep for our upcoming European family vacay!
Hi Kassie, oh no I didn’t realize they were no longer offering them. I do know they launched a new pair this past year so if they offer any new ones I’ll let you know! Thank you I hope your family also finds the blog helpful 🙂
ALL ages can look great in Leggings and they are definitely a lifesaver for travelling. I absolutely adore this blog and have found it so helpful in packing for my trips. I hope you come out with more interesting posts.
Thanks Eva, glad you think so!
Thanks for sharing. I love leggings
Thanks to the readers for sharing their top choices 🙂
But are they appropriate? Here in the states there is the eternal debate that leggings are or are not pants. They also seem to be an item that screams “American!” How would you recommend styling them to cover your rear without a baggy top or dress?
I have a post just for these questions 😉 https://travelfashiongirl.com/leggings-for-travel/
Which would you choose leggings for the 2014 year? I noticed some of them are no longer in production/raised prices a lot! Thank you
I just bought the Zella Live in leggings and they’re phenomenal! http://rstyle.me/n/mpce29s3e
I had so looked forward to wearing leggings on a transatlantic flight, and I was excited to find this post, but once again, there are no options for tall women. 5’7″ (hello, average) with a 27″ inseam does NOT equal freakishly long legs! On me, those would be capris (I’m 5’11”). Looks like I will have to wear jeans again. 😛
Hi Mabel, there is a tall option listed:
9. Long Lengths: Icebreaker Villa’s
‘Great for those of us with freakishly long legs, but they’re an investment.’
Great for the (great) outdoors, these are the leggings ‘you’ll never want to take off’, made from lightweight and soft pure merino rib fabric (a great natural alternative to synthetics); they fit close to the body to regulate temperature without overheating, pretty smart.
These leggings have a casual fit, meaning they look great under any clothing, and provide the ultimate comfort with a low riding elasticated waistband and relaxed cuffs. The best black leggings are the ones that don’t fade – athletic materials would also be beneficial for this.
Buy at Amazon.com or at Icebreaker
Fantastica article!
Leggings are definitely a lifesaver for travelling–something breathable and wrinkle-free are usually my top priorities!
I absolutely adore this blog and have found it so helpful in packing for my trips. I especially enjoy these “top ten” style of posts, but I do get a little frustrated at the lack of travel options for plus size women. I would love to see more plus options here, but I always check the listed items anyway, and found that the Zella leggings come in a plus size!
http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/zella-live-in-leggings-plus-size/3215863
They are currently only available in black, but it’s great to know they’re out there! (And come in up to a 24W).
Thank you! I’m glad you like the blog and have found it helpful 🙂 I will definitely keep your suggestion in mind for future posts. I’ll add a note next to these leggings to let other readers know they’re also available in plus size. Thanks!
I love travelling with leggings. I usually like having a dark coloured pair that I can easily match with lots of different outfits, as well as a bit of bolder pair with a fun pattern. 😉
They’re really versatile and comfortable too 🙂