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ARRIVE IN STYLE WITH 7 OF THE BEST TRAVEL PANTS FOR WOMEN

They say it’s not the destination that matters—it’s the journey. And making a journey memorable starts with the right travel clothing.

Whether jetting off to a sunny locale or buckling up for a long road trip, certain garments fare better than others. A comfy pair of travel pants is one of the most important items on any packing list and helps make a long voyage much more pleasant. The best travel pants may or may not draw attention, but they’re certainly breathable, cozy, versatile, and adaptable for various climates.

With the proper styling, the most casual, unassuming pants become runway-ready—even joggers and track pants can fit the bill. Today’s designer brands know how to elevate favorite laid-back pieces, adding contemporary twists to traditional informal designs.

We’ll break down several tips for what to wear when traveling and introduce some of the best travel pants for women.

SCOUTING FOR STYLISH TRAVEL PANTS

The ideal travel pants are comfortable and stay fresh from the beginning of the day to the end, and it’s all made possible by the fabric composition and cut. These tips will help you choose the best option to arrive at your destination in style:

Seek comfort

Roomy designs win for long-haul flights. To avoid feeling constricted, try lightweight travel pants with elastic waistbands, which reduce compression and support relaxation for some much-needed shut-eye. Choose a forgiving silhouette in a comfortable fabric for the best experience.

Stay weather-conscious

Long journeys often mean crossing into another climate, so dressing mindfully is a must. Layers are a great way to prepare for fluctuating temperatures. When traveling from cool to warm weather or vice versa, layer a tank top beneath a sweater or hoodie. For hot climates, opt for quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk, and for cool temperatures, bundle up with wool, fleece, and corduroy.

Choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics

Nothing gives rise to wrinkles like hours spent in an airplane or car seat. That’s why choosing wrinkle-resistant fabric is the best way to arrive at an endpoint with a clean, kempt appearance. Save wrinkle-prone linen and silk for the destination, opting instead for natural wool or stretchy synthetics like spandex, elastane, and nylon for travel day.

THE BEST WOMEN’S TRAVEL PANTS

Good travel pants don’t just wear well. They look good moving through the security queue or during a pit stop on the road. These styles foster relaxation without compromising the look of an outfit:

Cargo pants

Veronica Beard Jeans Belisa High-Rise Wide Cargo Pants

The pants on this list appear in no particular order. But if they did, cargo pants would still be at the top. They’re the ultimate function-meets-fashion garment, a blank canvas capable of styling to fit a wide range of tastes. A relaxed fit is made even more comfortable with elastic waists and adjustable drawstrings. Veronica Beard Jeans’ high-rise wide cargo pants are an inventive take on the classic shape, featuring cargo pockets and a self-tying waist. The versatile design works well with numerous footwear options, such as sandals, sneakers, or loafers.

Track pants

Styling is everything when it comes to this pants style. At first glance, track pants give off a sporty vibe, but they quickly become fashionable when paired with chic garments. Today’s luxury labels have improved upon the varsity design, moving beyond the classic black track pants with punchy school logos that used to define the style. Select a pair of straight-leg yellow track pants with side stripes and a white tank top as a base, then layer an oversized brown leather jacket on top. Finish the look with chunky loafers, a bold charm necklace, and bangle bracelets for a cute ensemble.

Capris

Capris are a summer travel must-have. Their silhouettes are typically roomier at the top and tapered at the bottom, giving wearers comfort at the seat and a polished look on the lower legs. Even the most slim-fit designs are typically fashioned from flexible fabric, allowing for easy movement. Explore the creative prints from Piazza Sempione to step off the tarmac in vacation mode.

Joggers

PAIGE Mayslie Low-Rise Joggers

Joggers used to be on the list of faux pax items for everyday wear, but today’s style influencers, celebrities, and luxury labels have paved the way for their entry into the mainstream. The low-rise joggers at PAIGE are a prime example. Although the joggers mimic the look of jeans, the Lycra xfit® spandex material gives the design an easy, stretchy fit. The pants have classic jogger-style tapered legs accentuated by side zippers that can be worn open or closed as desired.

Wide-leg pants

Whether wool, denim, or corduroy, wide-leg silhouettes are a great way to get from point A to B in style. They rest comfortably around any footwear and give the legs room to breathe during long sitting sessions. Even a classic pair of jeans can be a comfortable commute option in a relaxed wide-leg cut. No matter the fabric, baggy pants and a chic oversized T-shirt are an undeniable duo. For hot weather treks, opt for boldly patterned pants from PatBO. The brightly colored blossom pants feature high waists and jute-trimmed sides, giving the design a playful flair.

Dress pants

Dress pants aren’t typically the first thing that comes to mind when choosing a style for travel. But they’re often made from soft, roomy materials that make for highly fashionable travel looks. Dress pants are great for arriving at a destination ready for anything—whether a visit to a Michelin-starred restaurant or a shopping trip in the town center. For a cute casual outfit, tuck a plain white tee or colorful cashmere crew neck into the front and finish the look with sneakers and a handbag.

Leggings

Versace Iconic Greca High-Rise Active Leggings

Soft clothing is the only way to go for red-eye flights. Leggings and yoga pants rank among the best travel pants for long flights, with stretchy fabric and elastic waistbands defining both styles. Although the designs are innately athletic, combining them with specific garments can elevate the overall look. Choose a luxe pair from Versace with a signature Greca and Medusa printed waistband and flattering seamed panels. Complete the outfit with a sculpted tank top and simple white sneakers.

Traveling soon?

If your travel date is fast approaching, make wardrobe prep easy by ordering ahead for in-store or curbside pickup with Neiman Marcus’ Click & Collect service. Find the best designer pants, shorts, activewear, and travel-size beauty minis to cover all bases for your next excursion.

For more inspiration, explore the editorial archive, where Neiman Marcus offers insider tips for looking your best for any occasion. Comfortable pants for travel are just one part of the equation—give “runway” a double meaning with comfy airport outfits and a stylish carry-on.