eddie bauer travel raincoat

The 11 Best Packable Rain Jackets in 2022

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With weather being unpredictable at times, especially for some of us over the next few months, making a jacket a part of your EDC makes sense. Better fabric technology, improved tailoring for freer movement, and easily packable designs make the current crop of lightweight rain jackets an easy and functional addition to your daily pack. You’d be better equipped for a sudden light drizzle, or even harsher conditions, when you’ve got any of these within easy reach. As a bonus, some of these models are also designed for athletic pursuits like hiking, cycling, and running, meaning you get more utility out of them beyond stuffing them into your daily work or commuter bag. This guide rounds up our recommendations for packable rain jackets that deserve to be a consideration for your daily carry.

• 2 - Marmot Minimalist Packable Rain Jacket
• 3 - Outdoor Research Helium II Packable Rain Jacket
• 4 - Eddie Bauer Rainfoil Packable Rain Jacket
• 5 - 5.11 Tactical Packable Rain Jacket
• 6 - Columbia Challenger Packable Rain Jacket
• 7 - Kryptek Jupiter Packable Rain Jacket
• 8 - Arc’teryx Norvan SL Hoody Packable Rain Jacket
• 9 - Chrome Industries Elston Packable Rain Jacket
• 10 - Arc’teryx Incendo Hoody Packable Rain Jacket
• 11 - Snow Peak Insect Shield Parka Packable Jacket
• 12 - Uniqlo UV Protection Packable Rain Jacket

Marmot Minimalist Packable Rain Jacket

Outdoor Research Helium II Packable Rain Jacket

Eddie Bauer Rainfoil Packable Rain Jacket

5.11 Tactical Packable Rain Jacket

Columbia Challenger Packable Rain Jacket

Kryptek Jupiter Packable Rain Jacket

Arc’teryx Norvan SL Hoody Packable Rain Jacket

Chrome Industries Elston Packable Rain Jacket

Arc’teryx Incendo Hoody Packable Rain Jacket

Snow Peak Insect Shield Parka Packable Jacket

Uniqlo UV Protection Packable Rain Jacket

#uniqlo #snow-peak #chrome-industries #arcteryx #kryptek #columbia #511-tactical #eddie-bauer #outdoor-research #marmot #clothing-accessories #jackets #buying-guides #put-in-your-bag-rain-coats see all

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Bernard is known for bringing everyday carry out of obscurity and into the mainstream, having been published or featured in various publications such as GQ , TIME Magazine , The New York Times , VICE , HYPEBEAST , Outside , and many others . He has also played a part in curating, designing, and developing digital and physical products, resulting in successful crowdfunding projects or limited edition collaboration products with established softgoods brands. He stays on the pulse of the EDC industry by attending trade shows, participating in online interest communities, and actively engaging with fellow gear enthusiasts on social media.

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The Best Men’s and Women’s Rain Jackets and Raincoats

We’ve all been bested by the rain: drenched in a sudden downpour, let down by a leaky trench, or soaked through at a kid’s soccer game. But if you’re armed with the right outerwear, wet weather needn’t dampen your spirits.

Since 2019, we’ve researched 196 raincoats and rain jackets and tested more than 50.

We’ve found four standouts—suited for a range of tastes, sizes, and budgets—that keep you comfy and dry when the skies open up.

Our picks include a well-priced, packable nylon shell ; a classic fisherman-style slicker ; a wear-anywhere women’s raincoat ; and a polished, mid-length men’s raincoat . With one of these in your corner, you might even find yourself wishing for showers.

The research

A well-priced, packable shell: columbia women’s arcadia ii jacket, columbia men’s watertight ii jacket, a classic fisherman-style slicker: helly hansen moss raincoat, a wear-anywhere women’s rain staple: l.l.bean women’s h2off mesh-lined rain jacket, a polished mid-length men’s raincoat: vuori palisades long rain jacket, other good rain jackets and raincoats, how we picked and tested, care and maintenance, the competition.

Columbia Women’s Arcadia II Jacket

Sporty and practical.

This packable nylon shell repels water as effectively as jackets that cost three times as much, and it comes in the most sizes and colors of our picks. It has a mesh lining that’s airy and breathable, but—despite its active vibe—lacks armpit zips for venting.

Buying Options

Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket

If you’re looking for a casual rain jacket that won’t break the bank, this Columbia shell (available as the Women’s Arcadia II Jacket and the Men’s Watertight II Jacket ) ticks all the boxes. Its lightweight nylon is well suited for active adventures and moderate climates; it can also be worn over warmer layers. The Columbia rain jacket comes in a wider range of sizes and colors than any of our other picks. One panelist said, “It may not light anyone’s world on fire, but it won’t disappoint.”

It really is watertight. We wore the Columbia rain jacket under a running shower for three minutes, and not a drop penetrated the two-layer construction (which uses Columbia’s proprietary Omni-Tech waterproof technology). The jacket has storm flaps covering its zippers, and it’s fully seam-sealed to prevent water from penetrating tiny stitch holes.

The hood got mixed reviews. Some testers noted that it directed water away from their faces without reducing visibility. But it’s smaller than the hoods on our other picks, and its length isn’t adjustable, so its efficacy is fairly head-dependent.

The material moves and breathes. Rain jackets are often stiff and confining, but the Columbia rain jacket is silky and fluid. “My range of motion in it is great,” said one tester. “My arms and shoulders feel free and loose.”

Panelists praised the soft and airy mesh lining. One tester who’s had the men’s version since 2019—and said it’s holding up great—wears his for outdoor work. “It’s breathable, and it doesn’t [make me] clammy.” (Another tester disagreed, claiming the jacket created “a moist, chilly microclimate.”)

The Columbia rain jacket doesn’t have armpit zips for releasing heat. None of our testers missed them—even while mowing the lawn—but if you’re active, you may prefer a shell with more ventilation.

It’s practical and packable. This jacket isn’t fancy, but its basic features get the job done. Testers liked the Columbia rain jacket’s roomy, well-positioned vertical zippered pockets. The zippers operate smoothly, thanks to long pulls, and its hood and bottom hem cinch via elastic cords. The velcro-style closures at the cuffs and over the front zipper didn’t impress us—they’re noisy and look cheap—but they’re quicker than snaps.

The Columbia rain jacket is the lightest of our picks and packs down into its own left-hand pocket. The process (video) is somewhat onerous (and instructions are not included), but the result is a totable 8-by-6-inch parcel.

It’s casual and outdoorsy. It comes in over a dozen solid colors and has a trim, hip-length silhouette that can go from grocery store to trailhead. “Even though it’s sporty, it doesn’t scream ‘performance,’” said one tester. Still, it’s decidedly casual—we wouldn’t wear it to work or a nice restaurant.

It’s flattering and size inclusive. This jacket is neither overly boxy nor especially body conscious, and testers of different heights and sizes responded well to its cut. “You can see the shape of the person inside it,” said supervising style editor Ingela Ratledge Amundson.

One tester (5-foot-2, women’s size XL) remarked, “The fit is perfect, with room for a hoodie underneath.” Another (5-foot-9, men’s size M) gave the fit high marks but noted that the shoulders felt a touch narrow. We found the fit true to size, though you may want to size up if you’d like more room for layering.

This jacket is offered in the widest size range of any of our picks: The women’s version comes in regular and plus sizes, and the men’s is available in regular, big, and tall sizes.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The hood is on the smaller side, and its length isn’t adjustable.
• The jacket doesn’t have armpit zips for venting.
• Its Velcro-style closures are scratchy, loud, and unattractive.
• The mesh lining in the pockets catches on things like rings and keys.
• Packing the jacket into its pocket can be tricky.
• Sizes: Arcadia II women’s XS–XXL, plus 1X–3X; Watertight II men’s S–XL, big 1X–6X, tall LT–5XT
• Colors: 12+
• Variants: none
• Material: outer 100% nylon; lining 100% nylon; mesh lining 100% polyester
• Weight: Arcadia II is 11.2 ounces; Watertight II is 13 ounces
• Care : Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
• Returns and warranty: 60-day returns, limited lifetime warranty for defects

Helly Hansen Women’s Moss Raincoat

Stylish and squall-proof.

This well-made mid-length coat has a charming retro appeal and is terrific for commuting. Made from polyurethane that has a pleasantly rubbery feel, it’s PFC-free and 100% waterproof, but it’s not as breathable as our other picks.

Helly Hansen Men’s Moss Raincoat

The Helly Hansen Moss Raincoat ( women’s , men’s ) has classic fisherman coat styling, with a long, straight cut and plenty of old-school charm (think: Singin’ in the Rain ). It’s made from pleasantly rubbery PFC-free (perfluorochemical-free) polyurethane, so it’s waterproof in the heaviest rain, and it has a satisfying heft that’s welcome in cooler climes. But it’s not particularly breathable; we’d choose a different coat for warm weather or strenuous activities.

It’s retro cool. The Moss Raincoat is a quintessential slicker, inspired by Helly Hansen’s original fisherman coats from the 1950s. “It feels nostalgic, but in a stylish, in-the-know way,” says Ingela.

Its fabric is totally waterproof, but it traps heat. This raincoat’s polyurethane exterior and welded seams offer exceptional rain and wind protection. The fabric itself is completely waterproof—no moisture seeped in during our shower testing—and unlike most rain jackets, it doesn’t rely on forever chemicals (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, aka PFAS or PFCs) to repel liquids.

The downside of polyurethane: It isn’t breathable. “I got clammy after about 10 minutes of just sitting,” said one tester. Vents in the polyester lining and a rear cape vent provide some airflow, but this isn’t the jacket for warm, humid conditions or cardio.

It has a unique, rubberized texture. Most testers loved the Moss Raincoat’s slightly stretchy, rubbery material. It has an elegant matte finish and a light, flexible drape. “The fabric is incredibly comfy,” said a panelist. “It feels sturdy, but it’s soft and easy to move in.”

It’s long and roomy. This coat has a straight, slouchy cut that leaves room for layering. “It’s just oversized enough,” says senior style editor Jennifer Hunter (5-foot-9, women’s M). Our 6-foot-tall women’s S tester complained about the proportions—particularly the “three-quarter-length, Audrey Hepburn sleeves,” declaring, “This isn’t for tall people.” The sleeves on the men’s version are 2 inches longer. The women’s version also comes in a more limited size range than our other picks—up to an XL. The men’s version goes up to 2XL.

This is the longest women’s coat we recommend, falling just above the knee on our 5-foot-6, size M tester. The men’s Moss jacket is 3 inches shorter but was still upper-thigh length on our 5-foot-9 tester. (Our longest men’s pick is the Vuori Palisades Long Rain Jacket .)

It gets most details right—but not the pockets. The Moss Raincoat feels durable and well constructed. The hood kept us dry without blocking our view; its length isn’t adjustable, but it can be cinched via old-school drawstrings. The YKK zipper runs smoothly. And the coat comes with a thoughtful repair kit in case you ever need a polyurethane patch.

Alas, the pockets are a miss. Awkwardly located on the front of the coat and covered with flaps that are pinned down on the sides, they keep your stuff dry, but they’re hard to wriggle into. Also, the storm flap and cuffs are secured by snaps rather than Velcro. Snaps are a little fussy, and because each cuff has only one setting, you may not get a tight seal.

• The polyurethane material isn’t breathable.
• The size range is less inclusive than our other picks.
• The pinned pockets are annoying.
• The cuffs and storm flap are secured by snaps; Velcro is easier.
• Sizes: women’s XS–XL; men’s S–2XL
• Colors: women’s version has three; men’s version has two
• Variants: short rain jacket ( women’s , men’s )
• Material: outer 100% polyurethane (PFC-free); lining 100% polyester
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Care : Machine wash warm, air-dry
• Returns and warranty: 30-day returns, one-year warranty against defects

L.L.Bean Women’s H2Off Mesh-Lined Rain Jacket

Versatile workhorse.

This durable, waterproof polyester raincoat is a utility player, equally well suited for an office commute, outdoor adventure, or evening excursion. Its hourglass shape, pleated back vent, and mid-thigh length were particularly popular with curvy testers, but not everyone loved the cut and fit.

If you’re after one women’s raincoat that can do it all, the light-to-medium weight L.L.Bean Women’s H2Off Mesh-Lined Rain Jacket is about as adaptable as it gets. Functional and cute, it can pass for casual, outdoorsy, or work-ready. It has an hourglass silhouette that curvier testers especially loved; others didn’t find the cut as flattering, but everyone agreed on its quality and versatility.

The H2Off jacket is also available in a winter-ready PrimaLoft-lined version and a longer, mid-thigh-length model .

It’s a style chameleon. Some rain jackets are emphatically sporty; others would look nice at the office, weird on a nature walk. But the H2Off can shape-shift. “It’s functional enough for hikes or weekend errands, and it has enough stylish details to wear out to dinner,” said one tester.

It’s more waterproof than it looks. Although the H2Off’s satiny polyester exterior looks like regular fabric, it has a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish , and the jacket’s interior membrane is fully seam-taped to keep water out. An airy mesh lining feels soft and cool against the skin. This coat is warmer than our shell pick from Columbia but more breathable than our heavier Helly Hansen pick.

The H2Off jacket kept us dry in our three-minute shower test. No water penetrated the inner membrane, but the exterior fabric did start to absorb moisture under the heavy water pressure; as this coat “wets out,” it gets less breathable.

It’s functional and user-friendly. Testers dug the H2Off’s large, protective hood, which is adjustable with elastic cords around the face and a Velcro back tab. The coat also has a two-way zipper, so you can make fit adjustments if you need more range of motion or room to sit.

The H2Off has an interior zippered pocket—it’s large enough for a phone or slim wallet—a handy (and curiously rare) feature for a raincoat. The in-line hand pockets are roomy and well placed, but they don’t have closures, so they’re not very secure or watertight.

This coat has snaps (versus more user-friendly Velcro) for securing the storm flap that covers its zipper and for tightening the cuffs. As one tester put it, “Snaps are a nuisance.”

It has an hourglass silhouette. The H2Off is cut generously up top, with a closer-fitting waist that can be further cinched with interior elastic pulls. A pleated back vent flares subtly around the hips and rear. “I like the slight curve at the waist, and I love the just-past-the-hip length,” said one tester (5-foot-5, size XL). “And it’s roomy enough to accommodate a large bust.”

The H2Off jacket comes in an inclusive range of regular, plus, and petite sizes. Even so, it didn’t work for all of our panelists. The proportions were comically off on our 6-foot-tall, size S tester: “It looked like an empire-waist minidress with sleeves 4 inches too short. They should make this coat in tall sizes!”

It’s well made. The coat’s stitching is neat and reinforced in the right spots, and the YKK zippers and Prym snaps are high quality. One panelist has owned her H2Off for five years and said it doesn’t have noticeable wear and tear, even after numerous washings.

• The outer fabric “wets out” in heavy rain, which makes the coat less breathable.
• The hand pockets have no closures.
• Sizes: women’s XS–XL, petite XS–XL, plus 1X–3X
• Colors: five
• Other options: mid-thigh length , PrimaLoft-lined hip length , PrimaLoft-lined mid-thigh length
• Material: outer 100% polyester; lining 100% nylon
• Weight: 1.44 pounds
• Care : Machine wash warm, tumble dry low
• Returns and warranty: one-year satisfaction guarantee

Vuori Palisades Long Rain Jacket

Long and lean.

A tailored fit, considered details, and great wet-weather performance make this thigh-length men’s raincoat a stylish and functional choice. It’s beautifully constructed, but it’s pricey—and it only comes in black.

It’s surprisingly hard to find an elegant, thigh-length men’s raincoat with a hood. (So we’ve learned.) Luckily, we found the Vuori Palisades Long Rain Jacket , a durable polyamide coat that blends functionality with handsome good looks. It’s refined enough for the office, yet not too formal to complement casual outfits. “This is the only high-performance coat I’ve tried with a fashionable cut,” enthused one tester. “It’s also the only one that says: ‘Hey, let’s keep this dude’s butt dry.’”

It’s stylish and thigh-length. The Palisades jacket looks urbane and put-together. “It’s something you’d wear to the office or on a date,” said a panelist. It’s available in black only; we’d prefer more options.

The recycled polyamide fabric (a close cousin of nylon) has a matte finish and a tight, smooth weave that feels slightly stiff. Although this coat wouldn’t be our first choice for higher temps—it’s not as lightweight as our Columbia shell pick —it’s breathable enough for spring showers.

This is our longest men’s pick, hitting our 5-foot-11, size M tester around mid-thigh. The jacket’s length gives it a dressier feel; it also offers more protection from the elements. “I normally like a shorter jacket, but with a raincoat, it makes sense to have that coverage,” said a panelist.

It has a tailored, slim cut. This is notably trimmer than the other men’s raincoats we tried. “I like the [slightly snug] feeling in the chest,” said one tester (5-foot-7, size M). Observed another, “It doesn’t feel big or bulky.”

The armholes are cut high, which contributes to the Palisades jacket’s tailored silhouette and should offer better range of motion. But one tester (5-foot-10, size XXL) found them too tight, complaining, “I can barely move.” Also, the sleeves are cut long: Our 6’0”, size M panelist thought they were “perfect,” while two others found them too long.

It repels water and wicks sweat. The coat’s polyamide exterior is DWR-coated , and the seams are fully taped; the Palisades jacket kept us dry in the shower. The pitched, close-fitting hood directed water away from the face without blocking the view. (The length isn’t adjustable, but none of our testers thought it was necessary.) The Palisades jacket has a storm flap that snaps closed over its front zipper as well as snap adjustments at the cuffs; Velcro in those spots would’ve been more user-friendly, though less sophisticated.

The coat’s smooth tricot lining is comfortable and sweat-wicking, so we never overheated while wearing it.

The little things make it sing. From afar, this looks like any nice black coat. Up close, the well-considered touches come into focus. Elastic cords for cinching the hood are hidden within the collar, preserving the clean aesthetic. Gray-and-cream lining tape inside the storm flap provides a welcome visual pop. A two-way zipper with matte black metal pulls allows you to make fit adjustments around the hips and thighs. The jacket has an interior zippered pocket that fits a phone or slim wallet. And the snapped cargo pockets conceal comfortably placed vertical hand pockets with zippers.

This is our priciest pick, but all of our panelists gave the Palisades jacket high marks for quality.

• It’s only available in black.
• The fabric is stiff and a bit crinkly, though it feels high quality.
• For one size-XXL tester, the slim fit across the chest and the higher-cut armholes felt constricting.
• It’s pricey.
• Sizes: S–XXL
• Colors: one
• Other options: men’s short rain jacket , women’s hip-length rain jacket
• Material: outer 100% recycled polyamide; lining 100% recycled polyamide
• Weight: 1.56 pounds
• Care : Machine wash cold, line dry
• Returns and warranty: 120-day return policy

Women’s and men’s styles

If you want an iconic, buy-it-for-life waxed cotton jacket: The corduroy collar. The tartan lining. That waxed cotton finish. The Barbour jacket has been around since 1894. Today, it looks equally at home in Brooklyn and Balmoral Castle . We tested the Beaufort Waxed Jacket , a classic men’s shooting jacket; the Bedale Waxed Jacket , a shorter, lighter men’s riding jacket; and the Beadnell Waxed Jacket , a women’s version of the Bedale jacket (along with matching hoods , sold separately). Panelists praised the jackets’ style and comfort—“It’s just as amazing as I imagined,” said a Beaufort jacket fan—though one tester found the fabric oily and off-putting. ( Upkeep and price are factors to keep in mind.) In our shower test, the Beadnell style kept us unexpectedly dry, though some dampness penetrated the outer layer; waxed cotton isn’t nearly as waterproof as our picks. So although we adore these Barbour models, we consider them less rain jackets than terrific jackets that can be worn in the rain.

If you want a sporty, PFC-free shell that’s ecologically responsible (but stiff and noisy): The lightweight Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket ( women’s , men’s ) is a packable, breathable, waterproof shell. It’s made in a Fair Trade Certified factory from recycled nylon that’s free of PFAs and PFCs (aka forever chemicals) , and it has a well-fitting adjustable hood and armpit zips for venting. The Torrentshell 3L was previously a pick in this guide, but upon retesting it, we found it baggier and less flattering than our Columbia shell pick. Also, we couldn’t get past its bewilderingly stiff material, which felt more like rough paper than fabric and rustled loudly as we moved. But if buying from a company with leading environmental initiatives is a top priority—and the fabric doesn’t bother you—it’s a solid, attractive jacket.

Women’s styles

If you want a sleek, stylish, and soft women’s raincoat that can be dressed up or down: The Lululemon Rain Rebel Jacket is a buttery-soft, lightweight polyester coat with a graceful, mid-thigh-length silhouette. Our panelists found it flattering and comfy. The Rain Rebel Jacket has very long sleeves—when cuffed, they reveal reflective Lululemon logos—an adjustable hood, a cinchable waist, a two-way zipper, and zippered pockets (including an internal one). It comes in women’s sizes 0 through 20, but at the time of testing, it was out of stock in sizes over 14, so we weren’t able to assess the fit on a range of body types. At the time of publication, it’s offered in black and off-white.

Men’s styles

If you want a heavyweight men’s workwear-style rain jacket: The Carhartt Men’s Storm Defender Loose Fit Heavyweight Jacket is made from tough wind- and waterproof nylon. It kept us warmer than any other jacket we tried, and it passed our shower test with flying colors (while remaining breathable). Testers appreciated the generous fit, workwear styling, abundant pockets—three exterior and one interior—and standout features, including stretchy storm cuffs and a detachable hood. Its reasonable price was a pleasant surprise, too. But the Storm Defender jacket is oddly specific: It’s too heavy for spring and summer rains, yet not insulated enough for weather below about 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Still, for a cool, stormy day—especially one spent toiling outside—it’s spot-on.

Since this guide was first published in 2019—and then fully updated in 2024—we’ve researched nearly 200 raincoats and rain jackets and tested more than 50. In 2024 alone, we considered 71 women’s, men’s, and unisex options, and we tried 22.

Note: For the purposes of this guide, we’re defining “jackets” as shorter, waist and hip-length options; “coats” are longer.

A panel of testers wore the coats and jackets and provided detailed feedback. It consisted of five women (ranging in height from 5-foot-2 to 6 feet, women’s sizes S to XL) and five men (5-foot-7 to 6 feet, men’s sizes M to XXL). Not every panelist wore every model, but all of our picks were tested by at least five individuals.

We judged each garment according to the following criteria:

• Rain protection: A raincoat has to keep you dry. Its ability to do so is determined by various factors (fabric, features), but we wanted proof. So the guide author wore each 2024 contender under a running shower for three minutes—the equivalent of being doused with 7.5 gallons of water . When the weather cooperated, we also wore the jackets in the rain.
• Style: We scoped out a variety of styles and lengths—from sporty shells to polished longer coats to ponchos—but whatever the genre, we wanted the garment to look good. We only tested options with hoods (sorry, trench lovers) and excluded water-repellent winter coats, since they’re a category unto themselves.
• Comfort: The properties that make rain gear waterproof can also make it an unventilated hotbox. Panelists assessed each jacket for breathability, comfort, and ease of movement under different conditions. We also rated the fabrics and liners.
• Fit: We looked for jackets that fit and flattered people of varying sizes and body shapes.
• User-friendliness: We hunted for jackets with intuitive features that would be a pleasure to own, and tested hoods, closures, pockets, adjustments, packability, and more.
• Quality: We looked for durable, high-performing fabrics; neatly finished, fully taped seams; and well-made, functional hardware. We also checked warranty policies.
• Price: There’s no right price for a raincoat—climate, budget, and how highly you value rainwear all matter. We sought out inexpensive options that could meet our criteria and also entertained some spendy ones, capping our budget at $450 (because that’s plenty for something fantastic).

What about PFAs and PFC in raincoats?

Most rain gear owes its effectiveness to water-repellent chemical compounds known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances)— also referred to as PFCs (perfluorochemicals; PDF) or forever chemicals. PFAS have been linked to health risks including cancer, pregnancy complications, and weakened immune function.

PFAS are very common—they’re found in everything from furniture and cookware to drinking water and soil. Experts say that limited use of any single product is unlikely to expose you to dangerous PFAS levels; the risk is due to continued, cumulative exposure from many sources.

If you want to limit your exposure , we have some PFAS-free options in this guide. One of our top picks, the Helly Hansen Moss Raincoat , is made of polyurethane. And the waxed cotton Barbour jackets and the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket —featured in the “ Other good rain jackets ” section—are also free of PFAs.

The majority of rain jackets have been coated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish that breaks down gradually and needs to be refreshed periodically. (When that happens depends on how frequently you wear and wash your coat and the type of DWR finish it has.) If you notice water seeping into the surface of your coat, rather than beading up, then it’s time.

You can try a couple methods to restore your coat’s finish. To determine which is best, check your garment’s care instructions, since it varies by material. You can reactivate the DWR with heat, by tossing the coat in the dryer or ironing its exterior. Or, you can apply a new layer of DWR with a product like Nikwax TX Direct .

Note: Not all rain jackets use a DWR coating. Waxed cotton jackets, like the ones from Barbour , must be periodically re-waxed to remain waterproof. Others, like our polyurethane Helly Hansen pick , don’t require refinishing.

This is not a comprehensive list of everything we tested in previous iterations of this guide, just what’s still available.

Unisex styles

We tested two options from Danish rainwear specialist Rains: the knee-length Long Jacket and poncho-style Cape . Both are constructed from a polyurethane-coated polyester that made us instantly sweaty, and it smelled—alarmingly—like fish.

The recycled polyester Rainkiss Rain Poncho is a voluminous, one-size-fits-all calf-length poncho that comes in assorted mood-lifting patterns. It’s strangely delightful—our 6-foot-tall women’s tester gave it a resounding “ponch-hell-YES”—but most panelists were deterred by its overwhelming proportions. And since it’s a pullover, you’ll get wet as you take it off.

The Stutterheim Stockholm Lightweight Raincoat , a PVC-coated polyester coat with a thigh-length, Scandi-minimalist silhouette, was the most fashionable garment we tested. But its open pockets filled with water in both our shower test and the actual rain.

The Arc’teryx Beta LT Jacket ( women’s , men’s ), a high-performance Gore-Tex shell, is incredibly stylish, breathable, functional, comfortable, and well made. It’s also really pricey. As of spring 2024, it’s being officially phased out by Arc’teryx. (At the time of publishing, the product page for the men’s version had been removed from the website, though it may be restored depending on inventory.) We are currently testing the newly updated base model from the same line, the Beta Jacket ( women’s , men’s ), which costs about $50 less and is made with a PFC-free Gore-Tex ePE fabric .

The Cotopaxi Cielo Rain Jacket ( women’s , men’s ) is a sporty recycled polyester shell; it has a PFC-free DWR finish and a fun, color-blocked design. But we found it boxy and unflattering.

The PFC-free recycled nylon Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket ( women’s , men’s ) is a slim, trail-ready jacket with nice features—including an adjustable hood and armpit zips—that our similar Columbia pick lacks. But the Marmot jacket comes in fewer sizes, costs around $20 more, and made us feel clammy.

We liked the comfy mesh lining of the polyester REI Co-op Trailmade Rain Jacket ( women’s , men’s ); we weren’t fans of the shell’s wide, shapeless cut. The REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket ( women’s , men’s ), a recycled nylon shell, was more streamlined, but the unlined interior made us sweat.

The mid-thigh-length polyester Eddie Bauer Women’s Girl On The Go Insulated Trench Coat is a former pick. Its button-in liner makes it better suited for cold than our women’s L.L.Bean pick , but it’s not as stylish or water repellent, and the cuffs can’t be cinched.

The cotton-nylon blend, hip-length Eddie Bauer Women’s Charly Jacket wasn’t breathable and offered less tush coverage than the L.L.Bean Women’s H2Off Mesh-Lined Rain Jacket.

The mid-thigh-length cotton/nylon Ellos Snap-Front Hooded Raincoat is cute, but the upper arms were so tight, we could barely move.

Everlane’s The ReNew Anorak , which is knee-length and recycled polyester, was the least waterproof coat we tried—we were soaked through after less than a minute under the shower.

The hip-length nylon Lands’ End Women’s 3-in-1 Squall Jacket has a bulky, uncomfortable fleece insert. Even without it, the jacket was tight in the arms.

Testers struggled to find their correct fit with the mid-thigh-length, recycled nylon L.L.Bean Women’s Trail Model Rain Coat ; also, they were expecting higher quality.

Some testers were into the workwear look (and the four large front cargo pockets) of the nylon Duluth Trading Company Men’s No-Rainer Jacket , others found it “too young.” Everyone disliked the unlined interior.

The L.L.Bean Men’s Trail Model Rain Jacket looks similar to our Columbia shell pick , but it comes in fewer sizes. Some customers complained that it runs small.

This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter.

Meet your guides

Zoe Vanderweide

Zoe Vanderweide is a senior staff writer reporting on style and accessories at Wirecutter. She has been wearing things for over three decades, and she has spent years covering streetwear, luxury, art, and design. Off the clock, you can find her painting the town rainbow with her (devastatingly stylish) daughter.

Jackie Reeve

Jackie Reeve is a senior staff writer covering bedding, organization, and home goods at Wirecutter since 2015. Previously she was a school librarian, and she’s been a quilter for about 15 years. Her quilt patterns and her other written work have appeared in various publications. She moderates Wirecutter’s staff book club and makes her bed every morning.

Further reading

The Best Winter Jackets and Raincoats for Dogs

by Mel Plaut

We used eight dog jackets on dozens of walks. The WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Premier Free Parka Deluxe Dog Coat is the best for keeping your pup warm and dry.

Getting Outside on a Rainy Day

by Kit Dillon

This is the gear we’d use during—and after—a rainy-day outing.

How to Clean Your Rain Jacket

by Eve O'Neill

An easy at-home wash and re-waterproofing can make an old raincoat work like new.

We’ve Inverted and Drenched Almost 50 Umbrellas. This One is Our Favorite.

by James Austin

The Repel Easy Touch Umbrella can bounce back from a blowout without breaking.

• Tour Account ›
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• Travel Forum
• Great Price on a ...

Great Price on a Womens' Rain Jacket (Eddie Bauer)

I bought one of these for fall/winter travel after seeing it recommended here:

https://www.eddiebauer.com/p/20612272/women-s-mackenzie-trench-coat?sp=1&_br_psugg_q=mackenzie%2Btrench%2Bcoat

It is not as compact as the much-loved Marmot Precip, but is warmer and very attractive for city wear ( it doesn't look like hiking gear). I took mine to Japan last November and it was perfect for the rainy days.

The price with the discount code is only $59.99!

Looks great and I’ve tried to order one but it won’t accept the discount code says “ conditions have not been met “ ?

Clicking on the "conditions" where the 'condition not met' comes up reveals the fine print of "cannot be combined with other offers"

Lola, what is the secret to get the $59 price?

It appears they are applying a 40% President's Day promotion, based on a higher "original" price of $179.99. So the system isn't allowing what it thinks is a second promo code (PEAK40) to be applied to get the $59.99 price,

I bet if you call them they can adjust it. Or wait until after the site wide President's Day promotion ends.... assuming the jacket is still in stock.

I just ordered one and it took the discount fine. The final price was different actually, $50.00 - plus tax and free shipping for next week arrival. Thanks Lola for the heads up. I've been looking for exactly this.

That IS a very attractive jacket! Sadly I think I am probably a bit too round for it!!

As with most EddieBauer items, the raincoat is available in many sizes, including plus sizes.

The discount wasn't working last night, but it's working fine this morning.

I bought this same coat in teal last September (they were clearancing that color I think so same price) and I love it. Plan to take to Switzerland in Sep. Love the longer length and semi fitted styling.

Kim I'm a bit round too and the princess seams help with that.

I also just ordered one for the $50 price - thanks so much for the info!!

Code seems to be working today. Could you all give me some recommendation on the sizing? I often use my raincoat over my packable down coat. Is the raincoat true to size, or tends to be larger/smaller than standard? Thanks so much for this tip- great color options available! Safe travels!

Sizing: that is a little hard for me to judge as I am off the bell curve on the small size end, and I prefer a close fit, not "relaxed". But I would say it is fairly true to size or slightly small. My XS ( regular size, not Petite) has room for an insulating layer underneath (including my puffy down jacket) without feeling at all tight. Notably, it does not bind at the sleeves/shoulders. It is roomier than my Patagonia Torrentshell jacket in XS that I wear for hiking.

But with the free shipping, you could order two sizes to try. You would have to pay for shipping back the one that doesn't work, however.

Lola, thx for posting this, as I do like a long rain coat. I probably will order two sizes. I have a great long raincoat made by Exofficio, [great buy from Sierra Trading awhile ago], but it's tobacco brown, and just doesn't mesh with the colors of my travel clothes. And- I get tired of looking the same in all my travel photos- different countries, same outerwear. [ Definitely a first-world problem, I acknowledge .] Thanks again for sharing!

Here is another sale link (40% off) in case the other one doesn't work. If the Mackenzie trench coat doesn't appear on the page ( scroll down) just search for it by name.

https://www.eddiebauer.com

Unfortunately my favorite Elysian tencel jeans are not included in the sale. But I could use a couple of v-next tees for $18.

I ordered this at the sale price with no problem - thanks! I'm hoping it looks just slightly more "citified" and less like just a raincoat than my Columbia raincoat (which is fine for hiking and more casual stuff). If it's not perfect, can always return it.

I've been shopping with Eddie Bauer for decades. There is an EB outlet store here in Boise and a retail store at the mall. I have many EB items including down jackets, cotton pants and shorts, silk skin layers, more. Over the last few years, I have watched as EB's pricing system went from seasonal sales and clearances to what I call "always on sale". That is, nothing is EVER list price at EB. Never. Which means that a $300 down jacket promoted as "on sale, 50% off!" for $150 is not really discounted at all; $150 is the regular price. That jacket is only a legitimate bargain when it's clearance priced for $75.

When I find something at the store or online that I think I want, I watch and wait. Eventually it ends up on the clearance rack and then I wait a few more days or weeks for the (usually unannounced) "clearance sale of clearance items" event. And THAT is the moment to strike! Exercising such patience means I rarely score the exact item, size, or color I wanted but doesn't that suggest I didn't really need it in the first place?

Eddie Bauer's quality is not what it used to be. I suppose that's to be expected these days. Comparing my new down jacket side by side with the older unit from 15 years ago, it is easy to see where shortcuts were made and costs cut (not as many carefully aligned and felled seams, sloppy butted seams, fewer stitches per inch, sewn-through down pockets instead of offset baffles, thinner pocket lining material, cheaper and rougher zippers, less reliable hanging loop, less elastic in the cuffs, smaller zipper garage, &c). However, my EB down jackets will easily last 20 years because I take care of them.

Eddie Bauer remains a good brand for some stuff. You've just got to shop carefully and resist that urge to push the BUY NOW! button without comparison shopping.

I agree with everything Bogiesan said, especially onnthe pricing. I never pay full price at Eddie Bauer. But if I really want or need a specific item, Inwillmbuybat 40% off rather than waiting for a deeper discount. I usually have a $10off certificate I can apply, as a member of their rewards program.

I got started with Eddie Bauer 50 years ago when I moved to Fairbanks and needed a jacket for the extreme cold (Fairbanks is know for winter temps as low as 60 below F, although it is more usual to be 20-40 below at worst. Eddie Bauer made serious e petition gear in those days, and the best option if one wasn't climbing Everest was the heavier Eddie Bauer Polar Parka, with premium goose down insulation and a real fur ruff on the hood ( wolf or coyote). Only real fur will resist icing up in icefog conditions. Of course these days they do not use real fur so the new iteration of the Polar Parka has fake fur on the ruff. And they no longer offer a size XS which is what I wore. It is still rated down to 40 below, however.

This is a photo of one of the "vintage" Polar Parkas like mine: http://www.shopvelour.com/men-outerwear/eddie-bauer-polar-parka

And this is the "Superior Polar Parka" they now offer:

https://www.eddiebauer.com/p/10112068/mens-superior-down-parka?sp=1&sizeType=Regular&color=Black&cm_mmc=GooglePLA-_-brand_PLA_B_Brand-_-Everything_Else-_-0015571100000070&cvosrc=cse.google.0015571100000070&cvo_campaign=brand_PLA_B_Brand&gclid=CjwKCAiA1rPyBRAREiwA1UIy8Gs--kKg9ys7gx2taQhsbGFvUKA6SvJPHx-auBkEyVzFQ3OVat10gxoCa7MQAvD_BwE

( Note the reduced price).

As for quality, yes the quality of some items has gone down a bit, especially since the company was bought by someone else ( I forget who owns the brand now). But I only have one item with a mis-aligned seam. The quality of their down is still fairly good, although of course it comes from China. But the quality and fill power of down is only a serious concern to mountaineers, not casual travelers.

One thing that makes their products especially useful is the range of size categories. Most of their women's clothes are offered in Petite, Regular, Tall, and Plus, and within most categories they have XS, S, M, L and XL. This means that a tall slender woman does not have to buy a L or XL to get pants and sleeves long enough for her arms and legs. My tall friends love that.

http://www.shopvelour.com/men-outerwear/eddie-bauer-polar-parka

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

What’s the Best Women’s Rain Jacket with Hood?  15 Lightweight and Packable Recommendations

Cold Weather Tips , FASHION , Sweaters & Jackets , Travel Clothing

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On the hunt for a lightweight packable rain jacket women’s style that’s perfect for your next outdoor adventure? Our readers share their top picks for outdoor and backpacking adventures!

Best Women’s Rain Jackets

Table of contents.

When I first started traveling, I was mortified to see the price tags on some rain jackets, but I really needed gear for my trip to Machu Picchu . I ended up finding a cheap option at Target, but I regrettably learned that a jacket is NOT something to skimp out on! 

A jacket is one of THE most important things you will ever choose for a trip and it’s absolutely important that it’s good quality. 

If you get caught out in a downpour, especially if you’re hiking or spending extended periods walking outdoors, a quality rain jacket will keep you dry, warm, and comfortable. A cheap jacket that’s poor quality will let the rain get into your clothing leaving you cold and soaking wet – this is particularly dangerous if you’re on the trail and unable to dry your clothing easily. 

For outdoor trips, stick to waterproof vs water-resistant rain jackets when possible to ensure you have the best protection from the elements.

Traveling to a city, not a mountain ? Take a look at these stylish rain coats instead.

Traveling in the winter? These waterproof winter jackets are what you need.

Traveling in warmer weather but worried about a sudden downpour? These packable rain jackets are perfect for those exact moments.

What’s the best women’s rain jacket with hood? Find out below.

Columbia Womens Arcadia II Rain Jacket | Sizes XS-3X Plus

Columbia Women’s Rain Jacket

I love Columbia clothing for travel and outdoor adventures. Not only is it good quality, but the price points are also affordable and they offer inclusive size selection on many of their best selling products. 

The above Arcadia II is quite possibly the most popular rain jacket and is available in over a dozen colors and sizes XS-3X Plus. 

Tip: You can find a broad range of women’s rain jackets on sale on Amazon if you click through the different colors as some items are cheaper in certain sizes than others. 

Marmot Precip Lightweight Jacket | S izes XS-XXL

Marmot Women’s Rain Jacket

The list of features for Marmot’s Precipitation jacket is seriously impressive. Angel-Wing movement ensures easy mobility in this jacket while its silhouette is specifically designed to ensure easy layering.

It’s 100% fully seam-taped for optimal waterproofness, and the underarm zips offer ventilation. The specialized PreCip Dry Touch material provides a waterproof, breathable barrier, and it’s a highly recommended women’s packable rain jacket.

As a matter of fact, this Marmot jacket is the lightest, most compressible choice, so naturally we had to feature it! With a huge list of colors from which to select, you also can choose to your liking the look that suits your travel wardrobe best.

The North Face Venture Hooded Rain Jacket | S izes XS-3X

The North Face Women’s Rain Jacket 

Versatile and functional, the The North Face Venture Jacket is a favorite with our readers. As with most North Face apparel, it comes equipped with many features designed to combat the elements in style.

This award-winning lightweight rain jacket for travel is waterproof and seam-sealed for optimal protection. It’s heavily functional while remaining breathable. You can’t go wrong with this classic!

Eddie Bauer Cloud Cap (Sizes Regular, Petite, Tall, Plus) : Amazon | Eddie Bauer  

Eddie Bauer Women’s Rain Jacket

While the insanely popular Eddie Bauer Girl On The Go Trench is a stylishly functional jacket for a city trip, a style like the Cloud Cap Jacket is better suited when you’re hitting the trail. Although if you want the best of both worlds, the Rainfoil Packable Rain Jacket easily transitions from the city to the mountain, too.

All of the aforementioned styles boast the Eddie Bauer trademarked advanced WEATHEREDGE® and StormRepel® technology to ensure protection from the rain and wind while also allowing for breathability. The jackets are also available in regular, petite, tall, and plus sizes. In fact, this brand has some of the best variety for a plus size womens rain jacket.

Eddie Bauer always has awesome sales but you can also check on Amazon where some styles are permanently listed at a discounted price.

For city not outdoor adventures, check out the Eddie Bauer Women’s Charly Jacket – it’s TFG Editor’s favorite! Learn why in our review . 

Patagonia Torrentshell Packable Waterproof Jacket   | S izes XXS-XXL

Patagonia Women’s Rain Jacket

The Patagonia Torrentshell is one of the best lightweight rain jackets for travel. It’s 100% waterproof, breathable, and comfortable. It’s ultra-practical features include valentine under arm zips, hand-warmer pockets, and adjustable hood with laminated visor.

Even more importantly, it features Patagonia’s signature bluesign®-approved fabric, made with tested and sustainably produced components, and is Fair Trade–Certified™. Patagonia is an awesome company known for designing quality products with the environment in mind so you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors with minimal impact.

Outdoor Ventures Women’s Waterproof Fleece Lined Rain Jacket | S izes XS-3XL

Outdoor Ventures Womens Rain Jacket

Readers have been frequently recommending this Outdoor Ventures rain jacket . It’s lightweight yet very layerable to keep toasty warm when the temps drop, and it’ll keep the elements out due to the deliciously soft micro fleece. 

It has a polished, slightly a-line shape to it that hits below the waist, and it not only comes in a range of colors, but in both standard and plus sizes!

The North Face Antora Jacket | S izes XS-3XL

The North Face Cute Rain Jackets

Another sought after North Face ladies rain jackets, the Antora Coat offers versatility and functionality for travelers.

With an internal drawcord, its DWR finish and DryVent technology keeps the jacket waterproof and breathable. It’s windproof, to also keep biting cold out, just put you comfortable and dry. With a flattering fit, there are so many cute colors available! 

Stylish rain jackets women’s designs are hard to come by, but this has a classic fit that’ll work with your wardrobe wherever you go.

Columbia Women’s Switchback Lined Long Jacket   | Sizes XS-3X

Columbia Switchback Womens Lined Rain Jacket

The Columbia Women’s Switchback Lined Long Jacket is a waterproof jacket and an everyday essential, this waterproof longer form rain jacket packs versatile protection in a variety of stylish color options. With added polyester lining you’ll find this is a comfortable and trusty jacket ready for any surprise downpour.


Find out why Merino Wool is the ultimate fabric for travel!

Lands’ End Women’s 3 in 1 Long Squall Coat | (Si zes regular, petite, and plus) 

Lands End Women’s Rain Jackets

The Land’s End squall Coat is just as versatile as it is sturdy with the 3-in-1 design. The cozy, quilted inner jacket and outer shell can be worn separately or together, to suit whatever weather you encounter.

Downpours definitely won’t be an issue with its fully seam sealed construction, waterproof finish, and unique Primaloft insulation because you’ll stay toasty and dry without being weighed down. Zippered pockets on both the interior and exterior pieces provide plenty of storage. 

If you’re looking for a jacket that can double as a winter coat, this is a good choice!

L.L. Bean Trail Model Jacket | S izes regular, petite, and plus

LL Bean Womens Rain Jacket

L.L. Bean’s  Trail Model is an easy essential. Equipped with an advanced ceramic coating that ensures both breathability and waterproof protection, this is a trusty piece that’s sure to keep you nice and dry.

The stow-away design makes this one of the top women’s packable rain jackets, while its waterproof TEK2.5® ripstop nylon is both breathable and sturdy. Lightweight and comfortable, this L.L. Bean jacket is great for travel!

See what our readers ranked as the best packable rain jacket to travel with!

Helly Hansen Aden Waterproof Hooded Long Rain Jacket | S izes XS-5XL

Helly Hansen Women’s Rain Jacket

The Helly Hansen Aden is extremely waterproof and perfect for multi-climate destinations. The quick dry mesh lining and polyester material make it a great versatile piece to bring along as a travel rain jacket or to wear as a winter coat by layering underneath.

Features include a durable water repellent finish, a high-neck collar for added warmth, and plenty of interior pockets to store your belongings when sightseeing.

Columbia Pardon My Trench Jacket | S izes XS- 3X Plus

Columbia Stylish Rain Jacket  with Cinched Waist

Among the most popular Columbia jackets for women, the Pardon My Trench is a lightweight women’s rain jacket that is as practical as it is chic. With an adjustable tie waist, the fit is both customizable and flattering.

Its back venting system offers breathability, while a detachable hood offers multiple styles of wearability. Adjustable cuffs provide personalized coverage, and the coat itself has a stylish, classic silhouette.

While you can wear it on the mountain, this also acts as the best lightweight rain jacket for travel abroad, too!

Here are a few trench coat styles to inspire your travel wardrobe this season!

Columbia Splash A Little Rain Jacket : Sizes XS-XXL   | Sizes 1X-3X Plus

Cute Women’s Rain Jackets with Hood

A cute rain jacket with an equally cute name! As you can see, Columbia has no shortage of fashionably outerwear options. The omni-tech features of the Splash A Little jacket  ensures a waterproof and breathable product.

It’s fully seamed so you don’t have to worry about any moisture getting in. Hidden zippers create a clean-looking design, adjustable cuff tabs provide personalized coverage, and a number of pockets throughout offer handy, on-the-go storage.

Quince Women’s Weatherproof Rain Jacket | Sizes XS-XL

Quince Womens Rain Jackets

As you can see with our list, we have several styles from the same brands including Quince. Some brands just know how to make the best rain gear for women and this is one of the top ones. 

This Weatherproof Jacket by Quince is made of recycled polyester, it’s waterproof and breathable to provide all-day comfort and long-lasting durability. And since it’s light enough to stash in your bag, you’ll be protected wherever you travel.

It’s conveniently lightweight, while offering plenty of functionality and has a 3 colors from which to choose. Also available in long version !

SaphiRose Rain Poncho | O ne size

SaphiRose Summer Rain Jacket

This rain poncho from SaphiRose makes the ideal summer rain jacket women’s style to keep in your day bag and throw on for an unexpected downpour.

Readers love the extended length and how effective it is in the rain. It’s lightweight and packable and it fits in its own pocket!

Ranging from perky polka dots to bold stripes, this poncho is offered in many cute prints and will add a pop of color to any grey and gloomy days you might encounter on vacation. 

Best Rain Jackets for Women Product Comparison Chart

Which do you think is the most stylish rain jacket for women? Please share in the comments!

For more travel clothing articles, please read:

• Most Comfortable Pants 
• Most Recommended Travel Shirts 
• Lightweight Denim Jackets 
• Classic Cashmere Sweaters 

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33 comments.

I bought the Eddie Bauer raincoat for my Alaska crusie and it worked perfectly. I was able to wear a fleece underneath when we were cruising through the glaciers and I was perfectly warm and dry. Hint – Buy a fun color and your travel partner will have an easier time finding you in a crowd!

Just recently got Eddie Bauer Girl on the Go trench coat and loving the look and length. A great deal when it goes on sale. Now looking for a reason to be out in the rain.

I love that you have researched this area but very few of these jackets cover your butt. I honestly think a rain jacket is all but useless if it doesn’t keep your bum dry.

This post has been so helpful! Travelling to Paris in early spring, I knew I needed a coat for the rainy weather. I was also committed to traveling with carry on only, thanks to the tips from this post and the FB group!

I live near Seattle and wear rain jackets and coats all the time. In the past couple of years, I have purchased and adore my Athleta raincoats, especially the ones that are described as “waterproof”. I have the “water resistant” ones too, for light rain days, but in downpours I love the waterproof ones as they are cute and truly work!

Thanks for the suggestions. Lots of nice ones. Love your site!

I have the LLBean Trail jacket in navy. It sheds water and keeps me really dry in the rain. You can layer it on top of warm clothing, fleece or other jackets and it will also act as a wind break. I highly recommend it for travel. It is it lightweight and takes up very little space in a backpack or carryon.

There are some great suggestions here but my favorite rain jacket is from Kuhl! I haven’t seen Kuhl mentioned on the blog but recommend checking it out. They have some great travel pieces. Their rain jacket is flattering, lightweight, and long. It’s my favorite that I’ve tried!

The North Face Venture is excellent! Velcro wrist adjustment, covered zipper and terrific hood enhance the waterproof feature. The jacket dries very quickly, folds tiny and allows for sweatshirt or wool sweater underneath. It is my go to October into January depending on the temperature (I live in New England). Mine has gone with me to Ireland, Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Terrific as a windbreaker. Highly recommend. North Face stands behind their products.

Thanks for this great info!

Hi Sami, so please you found this article helpful! Thank you for your feedback ?

Hello, What Coat/Jacket would you recommend when going to London in December? I read online it would be cold and rainy weather. And i am not sure the rain coats here provide enough warmth. Thanks

Hi Ai, thank you for reaching out. For other suggestions for warmer winter jackets, check out the options on this post: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/14-waterproof-jackets-for-stylish-winter-travel/ You might also find this article helpful for tips for how to layer your clothes so that you are warm when out sightseeing: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-stay-warm-in-cold-weather/ Hope this helps. Have an awesome trip to London! ?

Hi there, Im going on my first cruise ever and its a 2 week South American ( hitting Argentina, Chile and uraguay, I think ! I get very overwhelmed when I have to pack even for a wknd somewhere ,lol so I could really use some help. All I have is a thin simple windbreaker style. very casual.( would that be sufficient.) any other tips on this packing trip would be great! our trip is a mix of both cold and warm. tnx!!!

Hi Sue, the best place to start planning your packing would be to have a look at this post for tips for what to pack for a cruise: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-a-cruise-vacation/ You may also find this post interesting since it is your first time on a cruise: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/first-time-cruise-tips-what-to-pack/ Also for specific help to help with you packing to South America, have a look at this 10 step guide: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guide-south-america/ Hope this helps! Have an amazing time on your cruise, your trip sounds fantastic!! 🙂

What parka/ coat is the model wearing in the picture?

Hi Karen, unfortunately the product sold out some time ago so we’re not sure of the brand. Sorry we couldn’t have been more helpful 🙁

i’ve just seen Uniglo’s Range of lightweight water resistant windbreaker type jackets and coats. I don’t think they are suitable for any heavy duty trekking or super wet or really cold weather but they are terrific for travel. 2 or 3 different lengths and styles and around 4 colours in that clean unfussy styling that Uniglo does so well.

Thanks for your feedback Karyn, good to know!

Oh my goodness you guys, you need to Check out outdoor researches ladies jackets!! Soooo many cute and stylish options!!! I LOVE this blog, you save me so much time of scouring the Internet!!

What Rain jacket do you think I need if I am going to France,Italy and Greece in May,june and July next yr 10 weeks do I take my full on Gortex jacket or just a light shower proof jacket that takes up less room

I think just a light one would do the trick! It’s warm at that time of year and you don’t want a heavy outer layer! Sounds like an awesome trip! Enjoy!

I love windbreakers, especially camo. My favorite is UA Storm Windstopper. It does cost more than what most people may be willing to pay, but it manages to keep you completely dry during considerably heavy rains.

Thanks for the recommendation Aleta! I will have to check that one out! Happy travels!

Aleta, I you know someone in the military, or retired from it, they can get get you the real deal Goretex jacket! Absolutely the driest and warmest thing available! I have one ( earned it!), but rarely wear it except at home. Next best is LlBean’s Stowaway Goretex rain jacket, which is also windproof. This one goes absolutely everywhere with me, and I’ve been very glad I had it during torrential downpours! Can also be worn in the coldest winter if you add both light (150) and mid weight (250) Smartwool tops, and one Patagonia puff vest in Primaloft. I leave Denver in January ( icy cold and windy)! Then peel out of a good bit of it by the time we reach Hawaii’s Big Island. Since we stay at Kiluea Crater’s Military Camp, most days and nights are chilly, windy and very wet. A true Godsend jacket. Even better if you can find it on sale. Mine is black so I think it’s pretty classy for anything. Connie

Where is the cute jacket from in the main image (top of page)?!

Hi Rachel! That picture is a stock image so unfortunately, I don’t know where the jacket is from. However, this is a very similar style: http://bit.ly/1SSq8tA

Hi! I tried to click on the link that has the similar style to the stock image on your page of the khaki colored rain jacket. Do you still have that information available? Thanks!

Hey! Really love your website and all the great information. I’m glad to see Helly Hansen on your list – I have the Helly Hansen Lyness Jacket and it is SO cute, lightweight, and functional! I’ve traveled with it and wear it daily for bike commuting and I’m surprised by how many people have never heard of them. 🙂 I only sort of stumbled upon them myself so I’m always glad when they get a shoutout since I’m glad I found them myself!

Thanks Nicole! Glad to hear how much you like the Helly Hansen jacket 🙂

Same here since I borrowed my friend’s on a river canoe trip…and of course it rained and rained with chilly winds. Nice to hear someone else that likes them. Connie

Are any of these rain shells fully waterproof? Or are they all water-resistant?

I have a Sierra Design jacket that looks very similar to the Marmot Precip and I used it for years. But after about 20 minutes in the rain, the jacket starts to stick to your skin and you eventually get soaked through. It was fine for a light drizzle or if you only used it in an urban environment. But for a trek or a full day hike, I prefer Goretex.

I picked up an Arcteryx Beta AR shell on clearance a few years ago. Even on sale it was crazy expensive, but it’s the only jacket I’ve had (that wasn’t rubber!) that kept me totally dry. On a hike in Yosemite a few years ago we hiked the last 3 hours of the trail in a heavy downpour, and my upper body was bone dry when we got back to the car. I don’t know what Goretex is actually made of, but I swear, it’s magical!

Goretex is expensive but the number one fabric for waterproof. Definitely worth the investment if you plan to spend time in rainy cold climates. For this article, I pulled up the top sellers for rain jackets but you’d have to check the individual jacket details to find out which are resistant vs waterproof.

I’ll also check out the Arcteryx, thanks for your feedback!

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The 8 Best Packable Jackets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested jackets that can fit in luggage without taking up too much space.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Packing for a cold weather getaway can be difficult since bulky clothes take up a lot of space. To eliminate the stress of trying to fit warm clothing in a suitcase, invest in a packable jacket as the ultimate hack. 

Travel editors already double as packing experts so we researched and tried out 19 portable jackets for various activities. From hiking and biking to sightseeing and air travel, the coats came with us on short and long trips so we could gauge the usefulness, quality, fit, and overall design to endorse the top-scoring packable jackets from our tests. 

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Columbia Switchback Iii Jacket
• Best Windbreaker: Cotopaxi Teca Half-zip Windbreaker

Best Long Jacket: Everlane The ReNew Long Liner

• Most Size-Inclusive: Girlfriend Collective Packable Puffer
• Best for Hiking: L.L.Bean PrimaLoft Packaway Jacket
• Best Lightweight: Patagonia Women's Nano Puff Jacket
• Best Down-filled: Lululemon Pack It Down Jacket
• Best Budget Down: Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Jacket

Best Overall: Columbia Women's Switchback III Jacket

It folds down to a fraction of the original size and comes with a stowaway hood. 

We found that it doesn't have a lot of insulation and is best for shoulder season. 

Columbia is one of the most trusted brands on the market for outdoor gear so it’s no surprise to us that this jacket earned a perfect score in testing. Of course, our favorite feature of this jacket is the ability to fold it into itself to save space in a suitcase. After six months of use including stuffing the jacket into backpacks, duffels, and suitcases, it also still looks brand new.

This lightweight coat is also equipped with other helpful features to ward off rain, wind, and other inclement weather while traveling. It comes with a stowaway hood that hides in the collar of your jacket and can easily be pulled out or tucked in as needed. We’re also big fans of the adjustable velcro wrist cuffs and bungee cord hem to tighten or loosen the jacket for a more customized fit. We found that the jacket runs true to size, but if you want to layer clothing under the jacket (which we recommend for cold weather because the material is relatively thin), then you may want to size up. 

The Details: XS to 3XL | Polyester, nylon

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Windbreaker: Cotopaxi Women's Teca Half-zip Windbreaker

The jacket is ideal for transitional seasons like spring and fall.

After six months of use, we noticed it's not very breathable.

This Cotopaxi anorak is the best lightweight layer we tested that is protective against breezy outings. It’s made with a water- and wind-resistant, repurposed polyester taffeta material with a DWR finish to repel light rain for all types of activities. Lightweight and durable don’t always go hand in hand, but after using this jacket for rigorous outdoor adventures over a three month period — like biking and hiking — and even washing it multiple times, the jacket hasn’t wavered in quality even the slightest. We even spilled coffee on the coat and the stain came right out in the wash. It has a slightly oversized fit so we were able to fit a sweatshirt underneath, but the thinner jacket can also layer underneath a larger coat as needed. One slight inconvenience is that the anorak style means it can’t be fully unzipped to cool off a bit in warmer weather, and there aren’t any vents, so it’s not the most breathable jacket. 

The Details: XXS to XXL | Repurposed polyester taffeta

Travel + Leisure / Kristin Cleveland

It has split zippers to increase range of motion when needed. 

During our six month test, an excited dog jumped on the coat, tearing the fabric — pet parents be warned! 

For cold-weather travel, you’ll need a cozy and warm jacket that won’t take up an entire suitcase so we recommend this quilted jacket from Everlane. We wore this nearly every day throughout the cold winter months and it is still just as puffy and stylish as when we got it. The longer length means the hem sits below the knees for more coverage than a regular puffer jacket. Although this jacket has more material than other jackets we tested, it still packs down small enough to fit in a small carry-on or backpack. Made with recycled polyester, the coat has a slightly puffed, quilted design and it provides plenty of warmth in the colder temperatures. For transitional weather, the split zippers were super helpful for breathability and mobility since we could unzip from both the top and bottom. The jacket is designed to be oversized but even when we sized down, it was still roomy which is something to consider for style and fit. 

The Details: XXS to XL | Recycled polyester

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Most Size-inclusive: Girlfriend Collective Packable Puffer

Girlfriend Collective

The jacket comes in several stunning colorways and 10 size options.

This jacket is a little less puffy after six months of use.

Girlfriend Collective constantly wows us with flattering, size-inclusive, and stylish clothing for travel and the Crystal Packable Puffer is no exception. And the cherry on top is that the brand has an excellent sustainability mission so this jacket is made entirely of recycled water bottles. We love that the jacket comes in six earth-tone colors and there are 10 sizes ranging from XXS to 6XL. In testing, the lightweight puffer was warm enough for cooler fall days and there’s enough room to layer underneath for the winter. The material is water- and wind-resistant so it can serve as an outer layer in inclement weather while still being thin enough to be worn underneath a bigger jacket. We had some difficulty getting the puffer to fit inside the stuff sack pocket, but we had no issues folding up the jacket to fit in a suitcase as is, so we still think it’s great for travel. 

The Details: XXS to 6XL | Recycled polyester 

Travel + Leisure / Elizabeth Rhodes

Best for Hiking: L.L.Bean Women's PrimaLoft Packaway Jacket

It’s warm and breathable for hiking in cold climates.

We found that the jacket runs big, so we recommend sizing down if you want a tailored fit.

Since the weather can change drastically in the great outdoors, it’s important to bring layers when you’re on a trek. Space can be limited in a hiking backpack so this L.L.Bean packable jacket is the best option for staying warm and saving space. It can be tucked away in its own pocket, and the packed jacket measures 6 x 11 inches so it can easily fit in a daypack or even a fanny pack. Besides its packability, the jacket is water- and wind-resistant, and each jacket has 60 grams of PrimaLoft Gold insulation to keep you plenty warm in cold weather. Throughout our six months of tests, we even found it to work well for more mild winter days when you're keeping active. We love that the outer layer comes in six sizes in regular, petite, and plus cuts but we felt like even the petite size was slightly oversized so you might want to size down for a slimmer fit. 

The Details: XXS to XL | Recycled ripstop polyester 

Travel + Leisure / Brit Haines

Best Lightweight: Patagonia Women's Nano Puff Jacket

The featherlight material is flexible and doesn’t feel restrictive.

After six months of wearing, we do wish it had a hood and we think it is best for shoulder season.

If you’re in search of a jacket to toss on for pretty much any activity, then Patagonia’s Nano Puff Jacket is the one for you. This nearly weightless jacket is made with recycled polyester filled with 60 grams of the 100 percent recycled PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco, which makes this an excellent option for those looking to reduce their ecological footprint with a consciously-made coat. The most-loved aspect of the Nano Puff is that, although it’s technically a puffer, the materials are so lightweight that it doesn’t feel bulky or too hot for a range of activities. It’s warm but breathable and there’s plenty of stretch for a full range of motion. Plus, the thinner materials make it easy to fold the jacket into its own pocket for excellent portability. We do wish it had a hood and waterproofness for outdoor activities but the shell is still water resistant. 

The Details: XXS to XXL | Recycled polyester 

Travel + Leisure / Sabrina Weiss

Best Down-filled: lululemon Pack It Down Jacket

The goose down fill jacket is so cozy and toasty.

After six months of regular use and machine washing, white spots have appeared on the sleeve.

For ski trips or any other winter travel, this goose down fill jacket from Lululemon is your best bet for staying warm in cold weather. It’s made with 100 percent goose feather down fill packed between the brand’s DiamondStretch fabric that boasts resistance against water, wind, and offers plenty of stretch for mobility. While this jacket is quite puffy, it effortlessly fits inside the included stuff sack and we love that the coat doesn’t wrinkle even the slightest when it comes out of the pouch. This is a seriously warm and cozy puffer so we think it’s best for leisurely activities rather than hiking since we got fairly sweaty and had to take it off during a trek. Our other favorite features include the removable hood, fleece-lined pockets, and hidden phone or passport sleeve for safekeeping. Throughout three months of tests, we washed the coat a number of times in a washing machine and it still looks good as new.

The Details: 0 to 14 | DiamondStretch fabric

Travel + Leisure / Elena Garcia

Best Budget Down: Uniqlo Women's Ultra Light Down Jacket

It comes with a sleeping-bag-like stuff sack to compress the puffer jacket down.

The quality seems a bit lower compared to other jackets we tried and after six months of use, the threads are starting to come loose.

This packable puffer from Uniqlo comes with a stuff sack similar to a sleeping bag, but much easier to pack. We love that the stuff sack comes with a drawstring cord so you can really compress the jacket to a size that easily fits in a carry-on without taking up much space. This even fit inside the Calpak Luka Mini Backpack (that also held a wallet and a book!) The jacket is quite puffy but not in a bulky way so we’re big fans of the lightweight nylon shell filled with 90 percent down fill. It has the perfect balance of warmth and breathability for various activities and, although it doesn’t have a hood, it does have a cozy puffed collar for extra warmth around the neck. The only downside is that the stitching and materials feel slightly lower quality compared to pricier coats we tested, but we didn’t notice any damage to the jacket during testing so we think the price matches the quality of the coat. 

The Details: XXS to XXL | Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Krisha Joshi

Other Packable Jackets We Liked

The jackets below still earned high scores during testing, but we ran into a few issues that prevented us from adding them to our winner’s list. 

Decathlon Forclaz Women's MT100 Hooded Down Puffer Jacket : This down-filled puffer jacket is super cozy and warm but it takes some serious elbow grease to get it to fit inside the stuff sack.

Orvis Pack-and-go Jacket : It’s not the warmest jacket (so you’ll definitely want layers underneath), but it is a very compact and lightweight jacket that packs down easily into a pouch.

Our Testing Process

Packable jackets are essential for traveling in cooler climates so we researched all the best options and selected 19 jackets from trusted outerwear brands like Patagonia, Everlane, Cotopaxi, and more to test out. We made sure to pick packable jackets that range in style, material, size, and color to find ones that fit the needs for all types of travelers.

We tasked 19 travel editors and product testing experts to wear the jackets for over six months to get a feel for the fit, quality, comfort, and design of the coat. And, of course, the most important aspect of these outerwear pieces was the packability so we made sure to use the stuff sacks (if included) to pack and unpack the jackets many times. If the jacket didn’t come with a case, we still packed them in carry-ons, backpacks, and purses to see how much space they would take up. 

Tips for Buying a Packable Jacket

Consider your activities.

Before you start shopping for a packable jacket, ask yourself what its main use will be. Is it for outdoor activities? Or more leisurely or style purposes? The answer to this question will greatly impact the traits to look for in a packable jacket. Nature enthusiasts should opt for sporty coats that feature water and wind resistance with breathable and lightweight materials. Longer packable jackets with down fill or thicker outer materials will be best for casual wear rather than rigorous activities. 

Look for thoughtful features for travel

Most of the jackets we loved came with stuff sacks for superior portability. While that didn’t necessarily mean they were better than jackets that didn’t come with a case, it’s certainly something to consider for personal preference. Other helpful features to look out for include removable hoods, hidden pockets for valuables, and customizable features like bungee cords at the hem and adjustable wrist cuffs. 

There isn’t a right or wrong way to fold a jacket and it depends on the size of the jacket and stuff sack. Some jackets are easier to fold up than others, so whichever way you can get the jacket into the bag gets the job done. The jacket might come out looking wrinkly whether you shove it in the sack or fold it up nicely and it ultimately depends on how prone to wrinkling the material is. 

Packable jackets come in various styles, which means it depends on the material and intended use of the jacket. Down-filled options will be the warmest and rain jackets will likely be the least warm, but the intended use for each item is different. 

Not all packable jackets are waterproof so if you’re looking for a truly waterproof jacket, it’s important to read the specifications section on the website. Most rain jackets will be waterproof but others could just be water-resistant instead.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer who writes nearly all of the Travel + Leisure Trusted articles, and participates in product testing from luggage and shoes to outdoor gear and apparel. Anna reviewed the team’s insights to compile this list of the best packable jackets for travelers, plus did additional research as needed.

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What to do in Moscow

Ballet at the bolshoy, cathedral of christ the saviour, drinking & nightlife, entertainment, house-museums, the museum of modern history, the new tretyakov gallery, novodevichiy convent, patriarch’s ponds, the pushkin museum of fine arts, sandunovsky baths, the tretyakov gallery.

Travel in Moscow is easier than you might think: the city’s general layout is a series of concentric circles and radial lines emanating from Red Square and the Kremlin, and the centre is compact enough to explore on foot. Moscow’s sights can also be mapped as strata of its history: the old Muscovy that Russians are eager to show; the now retro-chic Soviet-era sites such as VDNK and Lenin’s Mausoleum; and the exclusive restaurants and shopping malls that mark out the new Russia. A CityPass is a good bet if you plan on seeing several of the city's heavyweight attractions.

Despite its size, Moscow's concentric layout is easier to grasp than you'd imagine, and the city's famous metro ensures that almost everywhere of interest is within fifteen minutes' walk of a station. Red Square and the Kremlin are the historic nucleus of the city, a magnificent stage for political drama, signifying a great sweep of history that includes Ivan the Terrible, Peter the Great, Stalin and Gorbachev. Here you'll find Lenin's Mausoleum and St Basil's Cathedral, the famous GUM department store, and the Kremlin itself, whose splendid cathedrals and Armoury Museum head the list of attractions. Immediately east of Red Square lies the Kitay-gorod, traditionally the commercial district, and originally fortified like the Kremlin. Stretches of the ramparts remain behind the Metropol and Rossiya hotels, and the medieval churches of Zaryade and the shops along Nikolskaya ulitsa may tempt you further into the quarter, where you'll find the former headquarters of the Communist Party. Take a private Kremlin tour to skip the lines for the Kremlin grounds and cathedrals.

The Kremlin and Kitay-gorod are surrounded by two quarters defined by rings of boulevards built over the original ramparts of medieval times, when Moscow's residential areas were divided into the "White Town" or Beliy Gorod, and the humbler "Earth Town" or Zemlyanoy Gorod. Situated within the leafy Boulevard Ring that encloses the Beliy Gorod are such landmarks as the Bolshoy Theatre and the Lubyanka headquarters of the secret police – with its "KGB Museum" – while the Zemlyanoy Gorod that extends to the eight-lane Garden Ring is enlivened by the trendy old and new Arbat streets, with three Stalin skyscrapers dominating the Ring itself.

Beyond this historic core Moscow is too sprawling to explore on foot. Krasnaya Presnya, Fili and the southwest describes a swathe which includes the former Russian Parliament building (known as the White House); Tolstoy's house and the Novodeviche Convent and Cemetery; Victory Park, with its war memorials and Jewish museum; and Moscow State University in the Sparrow Hills – the largest of the Stalin skyscrapers.

Across the river from the Kremlin, Zamoskvorechye and the south are the site of the old and new Tretyakov Gallery's superlative collection of Russian art. Private guided tours are recommended for art enthusiasts. Here too you'll find Gorky Park, the Donskoy and Danilov monasteries that once stood guard against the Tartars, and the romantic ex-royal estates of Tsaritsyno and Kolomenskoe – the latter known for staging folklore festivals and historical pageants.

Taganka and Zayauze, east of the centre, likewise harbour fortified monasteries – the Andronikov, Novospasskiy and Simonov – and the erstwhile noble estates of Kuskovo and Kuzminki, but the main lure for tourists is the Izmaylovo art market. Inside the Izmaylovo Kremlin, a cultural centre, there are also a range of attractions, from the Bread Museum and the Vodka History Museum to the fascinating Museum of Russian Toys.

Moscow's Northern Suburbs cover a vast area with a sprinkling of sights. Foremost is the Memorial and Museum of Cosmonautics and VDNK. For anyone interested in the glory days of the space race, and its monumental landmarks and propaganda, a visit is a must, like on this guided tour . In the vicinity are the Ostankino Palace, Moscow's Botanical Gardens and TV Tower. West from here, the Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines will appeal to visitors with an interest in Soviet social history, too.

Outside Moscow there's scope for day-excursions to the Trinity Monastery of St Sergei, the Abramtsevo artists' colony, Tchaikovsky's house in Kiln, Lenin's estate at Gorki Leninskie, and the battlefield of Borodino, where the battle is re-enacted every September. You can also head out to the village of Aksakovo for a beautiful two-hour troika ride. Further afield, the historic towns of Vladimir and Suzdal are graced by splendid cathedrals and monasteries attesting that they were the seat of a principality when Moscow was merely an encampment. Suzdal is one of the loveliest towns in Russia, and definitely merits an overnight stay. It's also possible to visit the Aviation Museum at Monino air base, en route to Vladimir, if you take the trouble to get permission ahead of time.

This article includes affiliate links; all recommendations are editorially independent.

Top image: Komsomolskaya metro station © Gubin Yury/Shutterstock

While Moscow's Bolshoy Ballet (also spelt "Bolshoi") is going through uncertain times, plagued by infighting and rivalries (not least the recent acid attack on Artistic Director Sergei Filin), few would deny themselves the chance to see this legendary company. During the season, evening performances start at 7pm, and Saturday and Sunday matinees at noon; there are no shows on Monday.

You can see what’s on currently and for a few months ahead on the Bolshoy’s website – although the English version sometimes lags behind the Russian one. The ballet company is usually abroad over summer and sometimes also in the autumn, leaving the junior corps de ballet to entertain visitors – although star dancers are certain to be in Moscow for the opening of the new season in September. For more on Russian ballet visit www.for-ballet-lovers-only.com . For those not interested in ballet but more in the historical aspect of the Bolshoy theatre, take a guided historic tour of the grounds.

If you're more interest in Folk Dances, visit the Kostroma Folk Dance show , the most authentic one in Moscow.

Built as a symbol of gratitude to divinity for having aided the Russians’ defeat of Napoleon in 1812, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour (daily 10am–6pm), opposite the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts at Volkhonka ul. 15, was demolished in 1931 in favour of a monument to socialism. The project was soon abandoned and years later, under Krushev’s rule, the site was turned into the world’s largest public swimming pool. In 1994 the Cathedral was rebuilt and is now a symbol of Moscow’s (and Russia’s) post-Communist religious revival.

Moscow isn’t a city that goes to bed early. Many venues act as a café by day, restaurant in the early evening, and both bar and club at night. This can cover anything from an arthouse café with a spot of live music to a dance warehouse, or a fancy nightclub with a restaurant and casino. Most cater to a certain crowd, whether it’s creative professionals, students, shell-suited "flatheads" or designer-draped models. While formal dress codes are rare, face control (feys kontrol) is widespread. Russians distinguish between “democratic” face control (aimed at keeping out hooligans and bandits), and the kind that favours the rich (never mind how they behave). It’s unwise to rile club security staff, however rude they might be.

There are scores of trendy bars and clubs on Krasny Oktyabr, a former chocolate factory building located across the river from Kropotkinskaya and now home to some of Moscow’s hippest nightlife.

Learn how to walk, talk, drink and party like a Russian on a small group with Russian spirits.

Moscow's gastronomic scene has improved enormously over the last five years, with hundreds of new cafés and restaurants offering all kinds of cuisine and surroundings, aimed at anyone with a disposable income – from mega-rich New Russians and expense-account expatriates to fashion-conscious wealthy teenagers.

For cheap eats head to a canteen, where you can compile a tray of dishes smorgasbord-style. Take advantage of the great-value business lunches offered by cafés and restaurants during the week between noon and 4pm.

For well over a century, Moscow has been one of the world’s great centres of classical music, opera and ballet, most famously represented by the Bolshoy Theatre but also by its orchestras and choirs. Theatre can be tricky for non-Russian speakers though circus and puppetry surpass the language barrier. Moscow’s film industry and annual international film festival dwarf St Petersburg’s, but at other times most cinemas screen Hollywood blockbusters.

All this can be surprisingly good value, provided you ask for the cheapest ticket available ( samiy deshoviy bilyet ).

Gorky Park on ul. Krymskiy Val 9 (R100; Park Kultury) is a large park occupying an area of over 700 acres along the river. In the winter the frozen-over paths become one of the city’s largest ice rinks, while in the summer Muscovites stroll the area savouring an ice cream.

Admirers of Bulgakov, Chekhov, Gorky and Tolstoy will find their former homes preserved as museums. Anton Chekhov lived at Sadovaya-Kudrinskaya ul. 6, in what is now the Chekhov House-Museum (Tues, Thurs & Sat 11am–6pm, Wed & Fri 2–8pm; R100, student R60; Barrikadnaya), containing humble personal effects, while the Gorky House-Museum (Wed–Sun 11am–6pm, closed last Thurs of the month; free; Arbatskaya) on the corner of Povarskaya ulitsa and ulitsa Spiridonovka is worth seeing purely for its raspberry-pink Art Nouveau decor. Leo Tolstoy admirers should head to the wonderfully preserved Tolstoy Memorial Estate on ul. Lva Tolstogo 21 (Tues, Wed & Fri 10am–6pm, Thurs 1–9pm, Sat & Sun 11am–6pm; R200, student R60; Park Kultury) where the Tolstoy family lived after moving to Moscow from their country estate in 1881, and where the novelist wrote War and Peace . The Bulgakov Museum at Bolshaya Sadovaya ul. 10 (Sun–Thurs 1–11pm, Fri & Sat until 1am; free; t 495/970-0619; Mayakovskaya), is the house where the novelist lived from 1921 to 1924. There are nightly tours (1–6am; R550; phone a week in advance for tour in English).

The Museum of Modern History at Tverskaya ul. 21 (Tues, Wed, Fri 10am–6pm, Thurs & Sat 11am–7pm, Sun 10am–5pm, closed last Fri of the month; R100; Tverskaya) brings the Communist past alive with striking displays of Soviet propaganda posters, photographs and state gifts, although there’s a frustrating lack of English translation.

Opposite the entrance to Gorky Park at Krymskiy Val 10, the New Tretyakov Gallery (Tues–Sun 10am–7.30pm; R360, student R220; Park Kultury) takes a breakneck gallop through twentieth-century Russian art, from the avant-garde of the 1910–1920s to contemporary artists. Full and illuminating commentary in English is a bonus.

A cluster of shining domes above a fortified rampart belongs to the lovely Novodevichiy Convent (daily 10am–5pm; closed Tues & last Mon of month; R150; Sportivnaya), founded by Ivan the Terrible in 1524. At its heart stands the white Cathedral of the Virgin of Smolensk. In its cemetery lie numerous famous writers, musicians and artists, including Gogol, Chekhov, Stanislavsky, Bulgakov and Shostakovich.

One of Moscow’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, Patriarch’s Ponds is a pleasant spot (there’s actually just one pond) for a summer stroll or an ice-skate on its frozen waters in the depths of winter. The area is also known for being the location of the opening scene of Mikhail Bulgakov’s magical realist novel The Master and Margarita .

Founded in 1898 in honour of the famous Russian poet, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts at Volkhonka ul. 12 (Tues–Sun 10am–7pm; R150–300, separate fee for Impressionist wing; Kropotkinskaya) holds a hefty collection of European paintings , from Italian High Renaissance works to Rembrandt, and an outstanding display of Impressionist works.

Get the city grit out of your skin at the exquisitely elaborate Sandunovsky baths (Neglinnaya ul. 14 bldg 3–7 w www.sanduny.ru ; Teatralnaya), patronized by Muscovites since 1896. Join Russian businessmen and socialites in the banya , a wooden hut heated with a furnace, where you are invited to sweat out impurities, get beaten energetically with birch twigs, and finally plunge into ice-cold water. Men’s and women’s baths are separate, with the women’s section more like a modern spa. A three-hour session costs R1000. Daily 8am–10pm.

Founded in 1892 by the financier Pavel Tretyakov, the Tretyakov Gallery at Lavrushinskiy per. 10 (Tues–Sun 10am–7.30pm; R360, student R220; Tretyakovskaya) displays an outstanding collection of pre-Revolutionary Russian art. Russian icons are magnificently displayed, and the exhibition continues through to the late nineteenth century, with the politically charged canvases of the iconic realist Ilya Repin and the Impressionist portraits of Valentin Serov, including The Girl with Peaches , one of the gallery’s masterpieces.

To see Soviet triumphalism at its most prolific, visit the Exhibition of Economic Achievements, or VDNKh (Prospekt Mira; VDNK/Prospekt Mira), with its statue upon statue of ordinary workers in heroic poses. Adding to the scene is the permanent trade-fair-cum-shopping-centre housed in the grandiose Stalinist architecture of the All-Union Agricultural Exhibition of 1939, and the People’s Friendship Fountain, flanked by Soviet maidens, each symbolizing a Soviet republic. One of the most hubristic Soviet monuments ever built is the Space Obelisk , which bears witness to Soviet designs on the stratosphere. Unveiled in 1964 – three years after Gagarin orbited the earth – it’s a sculpture of a rocket blasting nearly 100m into the sky on a plume of energy clad in shining titanium. Moscow’s giant Ferris wheel, small amusement park and numerous food vendors help to create a fairground-like atmosphere. For a fantastic view over the VDNK, take the lift to the 25th floor of Hotel Cosmos across Prospekt Mira.

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