The 13 Best Travel Wraps for Your Comfiest Flight Ever
Warm & cozy picks, starting at $14
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We've all been there: You're midway through your flight or sitting in your office and counting down the minutes until you arrive (or get to go home) because you're so cold, you can't stand the thought of being there for one more second. There's nothing you want more than a blanket to snuggle up in. Unfortunately, it's not always the most socially acceptable—or space efficient—option. That’s where a travel wrap (nay, the best travel wrap) comes in. These soft, oversized pieces of fabric can be worn as scarves, wrapped around your shoulders, worn as a headscarf or unfurled into a small lap blanket for full body warmth. They're the most practical accessory for any season.
How I Chose the Best Travel Wraps
I went through and picked 13 options that have some of the coziest materials (think: cashmere, wool and cotton) and are perfectly oversized at around 70 by 30 inches long. I’ve ranked the best travel wraps you can buy based on material, shape and overall coziness below, while ensuring I hit a range of price points, starting at $14. Seriously, you won't want to leave the house without one.
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What to Look for in a Travel Wrap
Travel wraps are essentially extra-large scarves, and size is one of the greatest considerations you'll have when choosing a travel wrap. A good size is about 70 inches long and 30 inches wide, so it can stretch over most of your body. (I made the occasional exception on this list to the width, which is noted in the measurements section above, since some people may prefer a less bulky option to wear.)
You'll also want to pay attention to material. There are several fabrics that will be both cozy and warm without feeling too bulky, making them ideal for travel wraps. I've outlined a few of the most popular options below.
- Cashmere: Derived from Kashmir goats, these soft fibers are washed and then spun into yarn to create plush wraps. Loved for its soft warmth, ability to wick moisture and breathability, cashmere is guaranteed to keep you cozy on a long travel day. It does require a higher upkeep, however, as it's recommended to be dry cleaned or hand-washed due to its fine nature. I also suggest looking for manufacturers who practice more animal-friendly shearing techniques.
- Wool: Made primarily from sheep's fur, wool is known to be some of the warmest fabric around. (Read: When that airplane air conditioner hits, a wool wrap will keep you nice and toasty.) It's hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for those with sensitivities, and it's mildew- and mold-resistant (wool can reportedly soak up to as much as 30 percent of its weight in water), meaning even if you spill a bit of liquid on it, it won't get super gross in your suitcase. You shouldn't put your wool in the dryer to avoid shrinking.
- Polyester: A synthetic fiber made from a type of plastic, this ultra-durable material is moisture-wicking and ultra weather-resistant. It's also highly wrinkle-resistant, so it won't look like junk no matter how badly you smush it up under you in the back of the car.
- Acrylic: Acrylic is a synthetic alternative to wool that is just as snuggly and dependable. It's highly resistant to UV fading, which means the dye will stay vibrant for longer, though it's not the most eco-friendly option around. Acrylic fibers also tend to stretch with heat, so never wash your scarf in hot water.
- Cotton: Classic and easy, cotton is a staple for its durability, breathability and light breeziness. It's also another great option if you have allergies to any other fabrics.
- Silk: If you want to add a but of luxe to your ensemble, silk is not only beautiful, but is a natural protein fiber obtained from the mulberry silkworm that's extremely strong and helps to regulate your temperature. It's lightweight, breathable and dries quickly, and it will feel nice against your skin, which can improve relaxation and sleep for some—perfect for any long journey ahead.
- Microfiber: Made from synthetic fibers, such as polyamide (a nylon byproduct) and polyester, this elastic fabric will be super soft, since it has very small thread diameters. Beyond that, it's long-lasting and super lightweight, which is ideal if you're strictly a carry-on-only person. The one downside? These fibers easily attract dirt and grime like a magnet.
What's the Best Overall Travel Wrap?
I picked the J.Crew Oversized Cashmere Wrap as the best overall travel wrap for its large size, light weight and super cozy feel. The material is both sustainably and ethically produced, which makes it a feel good purchase. Although it can be pricey, you can find select colors discounted at any given time and there are several sales throughout the year to make it a little more affordable. It makes for a great gift, too!
Courtney Campbell
Freelance Writer
Courtney covers all things shopping and lifestyle at PureWow. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Elon University and has spent more than five years of her career writing and editing shopping content. She has also tested everything from kombucha kits to standing desks for product reviews. With a passion for service journalism, she loves covering food, lifestyle and home content. You can follow her on Instagram or see more of her experience on LinkedIn.
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