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Our readers are always on the lookout for the best sun hats and we absolutely love all of their helpful recommendations. Take a look at their tried and tested sun hat recommendations!
Best Sun Protection Hats for Travel
Table Of Contents
Whether you’re sightseeing under the scorching Mediterranean sun or spending long, lazy days at the beach, the right sun protection hat isn’t just a fashion statement—it’s a travel essential. UV rays can be brutal, and hours of exposure while exploring outdoors can lead to sunburn, heat exhaustion, and ruined travel days.
While locals might not always wear hats, they also aren’t usually out walking all day like we travelers are. So if you’re wondering, “Do I really need to pack a sun hat?”—the answer is a resounding yes!
The best sun hats for travel are the ones that combine form and function:
- Wide brim sun hats offer better coverage for your face, ears, and neck
- Packable sun hats can roll or fold without losing shape
- UPF 50+ sun hats provide built-in UV protection
- Adjustable bands and chin straps help secure your hat on windy days
- Lightweight, breathable materials keep you cool and comfortable
To find the perfect one, we turned to our readers (and TFG’s personal favorites!) for the most loved, tried-and-tested picks.
From cute straw hats to foldable sun hats, floppy styles to travel-friendly visors, these are the best women’s sun hats for your next sunny getaway.
Exploring the beach in Eddie Bauer Ripstop Shirt, MaxSwim Bikini, and Wallaroo Hat
Highest Rated Women’s Sun Hats for Travel
These are the most recommended sun hats for travel from our readers and community—durable, stylish, and loved for their comfort and versatility.
Wallaroo Victoria Fedora Sun Hat
Best Packable Sun Hat for Travel
The Victoria Fedora Sun Hat is a favorite among travelers who want stylish sun protection without the fuss. With its chic fedora style and poly-straw construction, it offers a lightweight, breathable feel that still looks polished.
One of its best features? It’s totally packable—just roll it up or toss it in your tote, and it springs back into shape every time. TFG readers love it for trips abroad, beach getaways, and everyday sun coverage. With a UPF 50+ rating, it offers serious protection while still feeling easy-breezy.
Available in a rainbow of colors to match any summer outfit, this hat is the perfect mix of fashion and function for your sunny-day adventures!
Old Navy Panama Sun Hat
Best Budget-Friendly Wide Brim Sun Hat
If you’re looking for a wide brim sun hat that’s both chic and budget-conscious, the Old Navy Panama Hat is a solid pick. Its straw-like texture gives a classic summery vibe, while the structured brim helps shield your face from the sun.
Lightweight and airy, it’s a go-to for beach walks, picnics, and casual city strolls. TFG readers love that it’s affordable enough to toss in your suitcase without stress, but stylish enough to elevate your outfit. Available seasonally, so grab it while you can!
Lanzom Wide Brim Straw Panama Hat
Lanzom Panama Wide Brim Sun Hat
Best Wide Brim Sun Hat for Travel and Sun Coverage
The Lanzom Straw Panama Hat is a chic and practical choice for sunny adventures, offering full coverage with its wide brim and stylish, classic design. Made from lightweight, breathable straw material, this adorable sun protection hat keeps you cool and shaded, whether you’re strolling through a coastal town or lounging by the pool.
It features an adjustable inner band for a comfy fit—even for larger heads—and provides UPF 50+ protection. Travelers love how well it packs, with one sharing, “I’ve had it packed in my suitcase for over a month and it didn’t lose its shape.” With nearly 30 colors to choose from, this sun hat easily matches your travel wardrobe.
Check out our list of cute summer hair ideas for more accessories to bring along on your summer trips!
Gap Straw Panama Hat
Stylish Straw Travel Hat With Timeless Appeal
The Gap Straw Panama Hat brings effortless polish to any sunny destination. Made from a structured woven material with a gently curved brim, this is the best straw hat for women who want style + practicality.
It packs relatively well, bounces back with a little steaming, and features a subtle band for that classic panama look. Pair it with your go-to linen jumpsuit or floaty sundress and you’re beach-chic in seconds.
Brixton Joanna Straw Hat
Elevated Sun Hat With Classic Lines
A frequent mention among TFG readers, the Brixton Joanna Hat combines structure and fashion into one beautiful package. This stylish wide brim sun hat comes in a rainbow of shades—from earthy neutrals to bold statement hues—and gives you full sun protection without compromising on your outfit.
While it’s not super crushable, it holds its shape well in a carry-on or can be worn on the plane.
Treasure and Bond Texture Panama Hat
Treasure & Bond Texture Panama Hat
Chic and Minimalist with a Structured Feel
This Texture Panama Hat brings a clean, elevated look to any outfit. Perfect for both beach days and rooftop dinners, it features a modest medium brim and a structured fit that flatters most face shapes.
TFG readers like that it’s a great in-between option—less floppy than a sun hat, more coverage than a fedora. While not ultra-packable, it’s sturdy and keeps its shape beautifully. Ideal for city travelers or those who prefer a modern sun hat with polish.
Best Floppy Sun Hats
For those who love a little drama in their silhouette or extra shade across their shoulders, floppy sun hats are a stylish and functional choice. These hats provide maximum coverage while still feeling airy and relaxed—perfect for poolside lounging, beach days, or chic city walks under the sun.
El Campo 5″ Brim Sun Hat by San Diego Hat Co.
UPF 50+ Floppy Sun Hat With a Chin Cord for Windy Destinations
With a generous 5-inch brim and UPF 50+ sun protection, this San Diego Hat Co. floppy hat is built for serious shade without sacrificing style. The flexible design allows it to pack down flat for easy travel, yet it still holds its shape when worn.
A built-in chin cord keeps it secure on breezy days, making it especially ideal for tropical getaways, cruises, and open-air sightseeing. It’s one of the best options for travelers who want a protective, oversized silhouette with no fuss.
J.Crew Wide-Brim Packable Straw Hat
J.Crew Wide Brim Packable Straw Hat
Fashionable Straw Floppy Hat With Travel-Friendly Design
This packable straw hat from J.Crew blends easy elegance with beach-ready practicality. It offers excellent sun coverage with its wide, soft brim while still managing to look polished enough for café stops and sunset dinners.
The hat folds easily into a suitcase or tote and regains its shape with minimal effort. Its structured crown adds a touch of refinement, making it an easy match for both casual swimsuits and dressier summer outfits.
Eddie Bauer Packable Straw Hat
Eddie Bauer Packable Wide Brim Straw Hat
Relaxed Resort Style With Built-In Sun Protection
This foldable wide brim sun hat delivers a vacation vibe with breathable straw construction and subtle, laid-back styling. The brim is flexible but generous, offering great protection for your face, chest, and shoulders.
It rolls up quickly when packing and is designed to pop back into shape with minimal effort. It’s a favorite for travelers who want something that can go from poolside to port city with ease—and fit into a carry-on.
Uniqlo Adjustable UV Protection Wide Brim Hat
Uniqlo Wide Brim Floppy Hat
Lightweight Cotton Hat That Packs Small and Shields Well
Uniqlo’s floppy beach hat offers a soft, flexible silhouette that delivers shade and simplicity in one. Made of lightweight cotton, it’s breathable and compact enough to roll into a corner of your bag.
The wide brim frames the face without feeling overwhelming, and the simple design makes it versatile enough to wear with nearly any travel outfit. Great for those looking for stylish women’s sun hats without bulk or stiffness.
Best Sun Visor Hats
When you want sun protection without fully covering your head—especially for top buns, high ponytails, or hot, humid climates—sun visors are a practical and breathable solution. These packable visor hats offer plenty of shade and are easy to toss in your bag or clip to your tote on the go.
San Diego Hat Company’s Signature Ultrabraid Large Brim Visor
San Diego Hat Company Signature Ultrabraid Large Brim Visor
Flexible Roll-Up Visor With a Wide Brim for Maximum Shade
This ultrabraid visor is a longtime favorite for its ability to pack small while providing big sun coverage. The wide brim wraps comfortably around the sides of your face for full protection, while the open-top design allows for better airflow and fuss-free hairstyles. It rolls up into a compact shape and secures with Velcro, so it’s easy to tuck into a tote or suitcase.
With a simple bow detail and adjustable fit, this is one of the most travel-friendly sun visor hats around.
Cole Haan Packable Straw Hat Visor
Cole Haan Packable Straw Visor
Stylish Straw Visor With Polished Details
Sleek and minimal, this Cole Haan visor is made with straw-style braid construction that lends a luxe resort look while still being casual enough for beach days or sightseeing.
It rolls up easily for packing and features a soft inner band and wide Velcro strap that adjusts for comfort and security. It’s ideal for travelers who love the open-top feel of a visor but still want a stylish women’s sun hat that pairs well with a wide range of outfits.
Best Bucket Hats for Travel
The bucket hat trend isn’t going anywhere—and lucky for us, today’s versions are more polished, travel-friendly, and sun-smart than ever. These stylish bucket hats for women are easy to fold and pack, and many offer sun protection with a modern edge.
Furtalk Straw Packable Hat
Best Eco-Friendly Sun Hat with Adjustable Strap
The Furtalk Straw Hat is a top pick for travelers who want eco-conscious sun protection without compromising on style. Made from recycled paper and polyester, it’s breathable, lightweight, and kind to your skin—perfect for hot, sunny days.
Its wide brim offers excellent coverage for your face, neck, and eyes, and the UPF 50+ rating means you’re well protected. A built-in chin strap keeps it secure on breezy beach walks or windy hikes, and the packable design means it can easily be tucked into your bag and spring back into shape.
TFG readers love it, with one saying, “This is my favorite hat—with the drawstring on it in case of wind.” Available in a variety of colors, this hat is a versatile and stylish companion for every sunny destination!
Madewell Lantern Straw Bucket Hat
Breathable Straw Bucket Hat With Trendy Appeal
Madewell’s straw bucket-style sun hat is light and breathable, with a softly structured crown and subtle brim that offers just enough coverage for warm-weather city strolls or resort lounging.
It flattens easily for suitcase packing and brings a playful touch to neutral summer outfits. If you’re looking for a crossover between a fashion hat and something practical, this is a solid choice.
Lululemon Cotton Twill Wide-Brim Hat
Lululemon Cotton Twill Wide-Brim Hat
Structured Bucket Hat With Sporty Vibes
Crafted from durable cotton twill, this Lululemon wide-brim bucket hat is soft yet holds its shape beautifully. The wide brim offers more sun protection than traditional bucket styles, making it functional for outdoor activities while still looking sleek.
It packs well, cleans easily, and gives off an effortlessly sporty vibe—great for on-the-go days where comfort and protection are key.
J.Crew Raffia Bucket Hat
Packable Raffia Hat That’s Lightweight and Resort-Ready
This raffia bucket hat from J.Crew brings in that straw-hat feel in a more compact shape. The structure is soft enough to fold, and it fits easily into a carry-on or beach bag.
The raffia texture gives it a resort-chic look, and the subtle brim provides just enough shade for afternoon exploring or sunny café breaks. Choose from XS/S or M/L sizes.
Quince Organic Cotton Bucket Hat
Quince Organic Cotton Bucket Hat
Foldable Cotton Bucket Hat With a Sustainable Edge
Made from organic cotton, this simple yet thoughtfully designed travel bucket hat from Quince is lightweight, soft, and totally packable. It folds down flat without losing shape, offers sun protection, and comes in go-with-anything colors like black and beige.
Its minimalist vibe makes it a versatile pick that fits easily into any travel wardrobe. Choose from XS/S or M/L sizes.
Uniqlo UV Protection Bucket Hat
Compact Travel Hat With Built-In Sun Protection
Uniqlo’s UV protection bucket hat checks all the boxes: it’s affordable, ultra-lightweight, and treated for UPF sun protection. The soft cotton build keeps it breathable on warm days, while the foldable design makes it easy to stuff in a day bag. It’s available in versatile colors and works great for casual sightseeing or active travel when you don’t want a full-brim hat but still need sun coverage.
Final Thoughts on the Best Sun Hats for Travel
A great travel sun hat should protect you from harmful rays, pack easily into your luggage, and complement your style—whether you’re lounging beachside, exploring ancient ruins, or navigating a sunny city street. From packable wide brim sun hats to stylish straw visors and modern bucket hats, the key is choosing the right silhouette and level of coverage for your destination and activities.
Remember: when it comes to sun protection, prevention is everything. These TFG-reader-approved hats are not only functional, but they’re also cute enough to wear with anything—making it easy to pack light without compromising your look or your health.
Whether you’re going for a classic straw hat, a breezy foldable beach hat, or a sleek UPF bucket hat, there’s something here to suit every style, head size, and itinerary.
FAQs: Sun Hats for Travel
What is the best sun hat for travel?
The best sun hat for travel depends on your needs, but overall, readers love hats that are packable, lightweight, breathable, and offer UPF 50+ sun protection. Top picks include the Wallaroo Victoria and Lanzom WGap Straw Panama Hatide Brim Straw Panama Hat.
What is the most packable sun hat?
Look for hats labeled as “crushable” or “packable,” made from soft straw, cotton, or polyester. Brands like Columbia, UV Skinz, and San Diego Hat Co. offer foldable sun hats that bounce back into shape after being packed.
Are bucket hats good for sun protection?
Yes, especially if they have a wide brim or are made with UPF-rated fabric. Today’s bucket hats offer both coverage and style and are ideal for casual travelers who want a sun-smart option that folds easily.
Which sun hats are best for windy conditions?
Choose hats with chin straps, adjustable bands, or snug fits. Options like the El Campo by San Diego Hat Co. and Eddie Bauer Packable Straw Hat are great for staying put on breezy days.
Can you bring a sun hat in your carry-on?
Absolutely. Many travel hats are designed to fold or roll up so you can easily tuck them into your tote or carry-on. Some travelers even wear their sun hat on the plane to save space and avoid squishing it.
TFG’s Editor’s Favorite Sun Hats!
In Wallaroo Victoria Fedora Sun Hat (Also: J Crew Midrise Denim Shorts, Rails Linen Shirt, and Earth Origins Orono Sandals (similar)
TFG’s editor has found some of her favorite sun hats at H&M. Since they’re tricky to find online, we found this similar wide-brimmed Panama hat, which is perfect for any tropical destination. From Italy to Thailand, a hat is always a must in her suitcase – no exceptions!
She found the hat above in Thailand on her travels. But now that she no longer has it, she’s eyeing this J Crew summer hat as the ideal packable replacement for while walking around cities, beachside, or visiting markets and festivals.
What do you think is the best sun protection hat? Share your thoughts below!
For more summer fashion accessories, please read:
- Fashionable Summer Accessories to Dress Up Your Travel Look
- Cute Summer Hair Ideas: Accessories and Hats for Travel
- Summer Clothes and Travel Accessories for a Stylish Beach Escape
- Brighten Up Your Travel Wardrobe with Summer’s Best Handbags
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What fit is best for a larger head. Thank you.
Hi Nancy, here are some popular sun hats recommended by this community that are offered in larger sizes:
-> Lanzom Wide Brim Straw Packable Hat (affiliate): https://rstyle.me/+0N-qzUunh0W3BQRwf_AqdA
-> Eddie Bauer Sun Hat (affiliate): https://rstyle.me/+BVVZ7DzTVUnn40qMs2NADQ
-> FURTALK Beach Sun Straw Hat (affiliate): https://rstyle.me/+ARx2NoqAMgYuc4LfFZm8ig
-> J.Crew Packable Sun Hat (affiliate): https://rstyle.me/+eFHl6dbiqchjZK9uvmPKnQ
Thank you for this post! I need a new hat for the Florida sun and several of these will work.