Packing for a trip should be exciting, not stressful. Finding the right outfits is part of the pre-vacation fun, but the reality of pulling out a wrinkled dress upon arrival? Not so much. If you’re a frequent traveler, especially one who loves dresses as their go-to travel wardrobe staple, you understand this struggle all too well. That’s why Travel + Leisure editors embarked on a mission to find the best women’s travel dresses that are not only stylish but also packable and wrinkle-resistant.
After rigorous testing of 16 different dresses, putting them through the wringer of being shoved into tote bags and suitcases, we’ve curated a list of top performers. Our evaluation criteria focused on design, versatility, comfort, value, and most importantly, wrinkle resistance. And our testing doesn’t stop here; we’re continuing to wear and assess these dresses over six months to gather even more insights.
Among our standout selections, the Beyond Yoga Featherweight At the Ready Square Neck Dress emerged as the best overall women’s travel dress. This dress not only aced our packability tests but also impressed us with its lightweight feel and breathability, proving its versatility across various occasions.
Read on to discover our comprehensive guide to the best women’s travel dresses, carefully selected to save space in your carry-on and keep you looking effortlessly chic on the go.
Top Travel Dress Picks for Women
To simplify your search for the perfect women’s travel dress, we’ve categorized our top picks based on different needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize wrinkle resistance, seek a specific style, or need a dress for a particular occasion, we’ve got you covered.
Best Overall: Beyond Yoga Featherweight At The Ready Square Neck Dress
Why We Love It: The Beyond Yoga Featherweight At the Ready Square Neck Dress stands out as the best overall travel dress due to its exceptional blend of comfort, versatility, and wrinkle resistance. This dress is incredibly soft, lightweight, and effortlessly transitions from casual daytime outings to more polished evening events.
Consider This: The straps are not adjustable, which might be a minor inconvenience for some.
This dress truly embodies travel-friendly versatility. Its buttery-soft, stretchy athleisure material is not only comfortable for long journeys but also incredibly durable and wrinkle-resistant. We put it to the test on lengthy car rides, casual lunches, and busy errand days, and it consistently delivered style and comfort. Its classic silhouette is easily dressed up or down with accessories, and the inclusion of waist pockets adds a practical touch for stashing essentials like your phone. Crucially, it remained wrinkle-free even after being tightly packed, taking up minimal luggage space. The fit is true to size, offering a flattering form-fitting top with ample room for movement. Despite the non-adjustable straps, this dress is a clear winner for both travel and everyday wear.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Material: 94% Polyester, 6% Spandex
- Closure: Pullover style
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Alt Text: Woman in Beyond Yoga Featherweight At the Ready Square Neck Dress, showcasing its wrinkle-free and versatile style. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-beyond-yoga-feather-weight-dress-lexi-rosenberg-09-8853cb4be7cd4e448402f4a5c87ff1ec.jpeg)
Alt Text: Traveler wearing the comfortable Beyond Yoga travel dress in a bedroom setting, highlighting its ease of wear. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-beyond-yoga-feather-weight-dress-lexi-rosenberg-03-c4cf678e5f514ce6a92df9756deec93b.jpeg)
Alt Text: Close-up of the functional pocket on the Beyond Yoga dress, a practical feature for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-beyond-yoga-feather-weight-dress-lexi-rosenberg-05-0505b9a3407644b8af6582d3332a88b1.jpeg)
Alt Text: Detailed view of the soft and smooth fabric of the Beyond Yoga travel dress, emphasizing its quality. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-beyond-yoga-feather-weight-dress-lexi-rosenberg-08-7a79599222e34f6cb17d5575f457adad.jpeg)
Alt Text: Packable Beyond Yoga dress neatly folded in a suitcase, demonstrating its space-saving design for travel.
Best Wrinkle-resistant: Royal Robbins Spotless Traveler Dress Short Sleeve
Why We Love It: True to its name, the Royal Robbins Spotless Traveler Dress is the best wrinkle-resistant travel dress we tested. It’s also quick-drying and features cleverly hidden pockets, making it a practical choice for active travelers.
Consider This: The rolled sleeves tend to unroll, although they can be worn at full length.
This dress is designed with the traveler in mind. Its durable, wrinkle-free material held up remarkably well when packed in a backpack, proving ideal for trips involving frequent outfit changes. We tested it as a beach cover-up, and the fabric dried within minutes of getting wet. The cinched waist ties provide a flattering, tailored fit, and the multiple pockets, including a hidden zip pocket and an earbud pocket, add to its functionality. While the rolled sleeves were a bit prone to coming undone, the dress earned high marks for its overall quality and value as a truly wrinkle-resistant travel dress.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Material: 86% Polyester, 14% Elastane
- Closure: Button front/pullover style
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Alt Text: Woman confidently wearing the Royal Robbins Spotless Traveler Dress outdoors, showcasing its wrinkle-free fabric. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-royal-robbins-womens-spotless-traveler-dress-short-sleeve-kristin-cleveland-30-c99b822bb1704a0a9bd6e2d78fdb3a23.jpeg)
Alt Text: Demonstrating the hidden pockets of the Royal Robbins travel dress, emphasizing its practical features for travelers. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-royal-robbins-womens-spotless-traveler-dress-short-sleeve-kristin-cleveland-24-66279daaab4e4934b364b51a4e1fa637.jpeg)
Alt Text: Back view of a woman in the Royal Robbins dress, highlighting its flattering fit and style for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-royal-robbins-womens-spotless-traveler-dress-short-sleeve-kristin-cleveland-16-4f364ae127b643888c9e5740c67b351f.jpeg)
Alt Text: Close-up of the durable, quick-drying fabric of the Royal Robbins dress, perfect for travel and outdoor activities. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-royal-robbins-womens-spotless-traveler-dress-short-sleeve-kristin-cleveland-14-c8dadd170ec24a12a54bc9d1275aff6a.jpeg)
Alt Text: Hand holding the lightweight and packable Royal Robbins dress, emphasizing its travel-friendly design. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-royal-robbins-womens-spotless-traveler-dress-short-sleeve-kristin-cleveland-2-dc50603e62ca44c693ddec6c5df8e600.jpeg)
Alt Text: Folded Royal Robbins Spotless Traveler Dress, showcasing its compact size when packed for travel.
Best Maxi: Brochu Walker The Havana Dress
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Why We Love It: The Brochu Walker Havana Dress is the best maxi travel dress for those seeking style and comfort. Its maxi length makes it suitable for both daytime explorations and elegant evenings out.
Consider This: The fit is generous and flowy; consider sizing down, especially if you are between sizes.
If you’re after a dress that combines style and comfort seamlessly, the Brochu Walker Havana Dress is a top choice. Available in a wide array of colors, this maxi dress is crafted from a blend of cotton and polyester that surprisingly resisted wrinkles when packed. While it showed minor creases after packing, they tended to smooth out on their own, and the ruffle details effectively concealed any wrinkles. This dress effortlessly transitions from casual to formal settings, pairing equally well with sandals or heels. Its maxi style is flowy and lightweight, perfect for warm climates, but be mindful of the sizing and potentially opt for a smaller size.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Material: 65% Polyester, 35% Cotton
- Closure: Button front
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Alt Text: Woman elegantly wearing the Brochu Walker Havana maxi dress in a grassy outdoor setting, showcasing its flowing design. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-brochu-walker-the-havana-dress-anna-popp-11-12aa1c24d4514d54a1e1e103076c880c.jpeg)
Alt Text: Traveler in the Brochu Walker Havana dress with hands in pockets, highlighting its relaxed yet stylish maxi design. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-brochu-walker-the-havana-dress-anna-popp-02-484d191b33ab49f6acd7bfece6eb08b2.jpeg)
Alt Text: Brochu Walker Havana dress neatly folded in a suitcase, demonstrating its packability as a maxi travel dress. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-brochu-walker-the-havana-dress-anna-popp-10-b5e038afe3854845bc623687f6adfb57.jpeg)
Alt Text: The elegant Brochu Walker Havana dress displayed on a hanger, showcasing its maxi style and design details. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-brochu-walker-the-havana-dress-anna-popp-05-6ca125cada9d4877af6db8afc9cd694f.jpeg)
Alt Text: Close-up of the ruffled hem of the Brochu Walker Havana maxi dress, highlighting its design element. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-brochu-walker-the-havana-dress-anna-popp-09-88998c1b940648d8912c6d2b466ffae4.jpeg)
Alt Text: Brochu Walker Havana dress folded on fabric, showing its texture and material composition for travel.
Best A-line: Everlane The Supima Jersey Riviera Dress
Why We Love It: The Everlane Supima Jersey Riviera Dress is the best A-line travel dress, celebrated for its ultralightweight feel and universally flattering silhouette.
Consider This: Lighter colors may show wrinkles more easily on the skirt; darker shades are recommended to minimize visible wrinkling.
While not entirely wrinkle-free, this Everlane dress is a favorite due to its breezy comfort and versatility, especially for travel. Its excellent value, particularly for a sustainably made garment under $100, is a significant plus. The design features a stretchy, fitted bodice and a flowing A-line skirt that flatters various body types. Though the skirt can wrinkle, opting for the black colorway should effectively conceal any creases. Plus, it comes with pockets! Testers found it comfortable and adaptable for diverse activities, from active outings in hot weather to indoor events, and highlighted its ability to be styled differently with accessories, maximizing its wearability during travel.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: XXS-XXL
- Material: Bodice: 92% Supima Cotton, 8% Elastane; Skirt: 100% Supima Cotton
- Closure: Pullover style
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Alt Text: Woman wearing the Everlane Supima Jersey Riviera Dress in a grassy area, showcasing its comfortable A-line silhouette. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-everlane-the-supima-jersey-riviera-dress-jackie-cucco-4-f4e8b24e93774311a3864c840787a512.jpeg)
Alt Text: Close-up of the Everlane A-line dress styled with a white belt, demonstrating its versatility and style adaptability for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-everlane-the-supima-jersey-riviera-dress-jackie-cucco-16-630b42dffe634119a8a40a8d9c731854.jpeg)
Alt Text: Packable Everlane Supima Jersey Riviera Dress in a bag, highlighting its lightweight and compact design for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-everlane-the-supima-jersey-riviera-dress-jackie-cucco-9-2274fb6a61a64dbcbb7257a37fb88abf.jpeg)
Alt Text: Detailed view of the soft Supima jersey fabric of the Everlane dress, emphasizing its comfort and quality for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-everlane-the-supima-jersey-riviera-dress-jackie-cucco-1-d2a41a687916459989884b533f82569a.jpeg)
Alt Text: The classic A-line design of the Everlane travel dress laid out on a table, showcasing its shape and style.
Best Wrap Dress: Foreign Fare Wrap Me Up Dress
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Why We Love It: The Foreign Fare Wrap Me Up Dress is the best wrap travel dress due to its unrestricted fit and practical, deep hidden pockets.
Consider This: Despite being marketed as wrinkle-resistant, it can still show some wrinkles, and the tie may have excess fabric.
Like the Royal Robbins dress, this Foreign Fare design is specifically tailored for travel, incorporating useful features like a hidden zip pocket and two side pockets. The pockets are deep and functional, allowing you to leave your handbag behind. Although advertised as wrinkle-resistant, wrinkles were noted both initially and after sitting, but the dress’s many other advantages outweighed this minor drawback. The classic wrap style is versatile for office or evening wear, and the substantial material feels both durable and soft. The adjustable wrap closure accommodates different body types comfortably, and sizing down is recommended due to the tie’s generous length.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Material: 85% Tencel, 15% Polyester
- Closure: Wrap closure
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Alt Text: Woman wearing the Foreign Fare Wrap Me Up Dress in an office, showcasing its professional and travel-ready style. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-foreign-fare-wrap-me-up-dress-stella-yu-14-fe91cc235ce64f5b8fbcb067af947548.jpeg)
Alt Text: Tying the adjustable wrap of the Foreign Fare dress, highlighting its customizable fit for travel and comfort. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-foreign-fare-wrap-me-up-dress-stella-yu-9-d36512fa16004949b7889b58146ef8d8.jpeg)
Alt Text: Close-up of the deep, functional pocket on the Foreign Fare Wrap Me Up Dress, a key travel feature. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-foreign-fare-wrap-me-up-dress-stella-yu-8-900e3489b83e41728f10731f5421a6ea.jpeg)
Alt Text: Detailed view of the wrap tie on the Foreign Fare travel dress, showcasing its adjustable and stylish design. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-foreign-fare-wrap-me-up-dress-stella-yu-7-2b84104d796f446a81bff5c42ad34495.jpeg)
Alt Text: Tags on the Foreign Fare Wrap Me Up Dress, indicating its brand and material composition for informed travel shopping. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-foreign-fare-wrap-me-up-dress-stella-yu-6-b26a81d010bd42cab3b547001796a143.jpeg)
Alt Text: The Foreign Fare Wrap Me Up Dress laid out on a wooden floor, ready to be packed as a versatile travel dress.
Best Sweater Dress: French Connection Babysoft Rib Button Front Long Sleeve Sweater Dress
Why We Love It: The French Connection Babysoft Rib Button Front Long Sleeve Sweater Dress is the best sweater travel dress because it’s incredibly soft, warm, and doubles as a cardigan, adding extra versatility to your travel wardrobe.
Consider This: It fits true to size, but sizing up can provide extra length if desired.
Wrinkles are a non-issue with this chunky knit sweater dress. Its material ensures you’ll never need to worry about ironing, making it perfect for cozy travel. It kept testers warm in mountain destinations, even with strong air conditioning. Sizing up offered extra length, but true-to-size fit also works well. The button-down front enhances its travel versatility, allowing it to be worn as a cardigan or even as a top over leggings. While tonal buttons would further increase its styling options, this dress is comfortable, not heavy, and ideal for long travel days and chilly destinations.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Material: 63% Polyester, 25% Nylon, 7% Wool, 5% Elastane
- Closure: Button front
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Alt Text: Woman wearing the French Connection sweater dress, showing its warmth and style for cooler travel climates. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-button-front-long-sleeve-sweater-dress-french-connection-lisa-pezzuto-28-51b2415646544c63a19da3afbcca16b6.jpeg)
Alt Text: French Connection sweater dress on a hanger, emphasizing its cozy knit and button-front design for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-button-front-long-sleeve-sweater-dress-french-connection-lisa-pezzuto-13-1c3cdd1fe98d4f6dbdc04b639a51093d.jpeg)
Alt Text: Close-up of the button detail on the French Connection sweater dress, highlighting its design feature and cardigan versatility. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-button-front-long-sleeve-sweater-dress-french-connection-lisa-pezzuto-23-61790368c74e4663a46fe4fa17572588.jpeg)
Alt Text: Back view of the French Connection sweater dress laid out, showing its ribbed texture and cozy knit for travel comfort. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-button-front-long-sleeve-sweater-dress-french-connection-lisa-pezzuto-14-e9de36521333469f9c14d6bd80db2d01.jpeg)
Alt Text: French Connection sweater dress folded in a trunk, demonstrating its packability as a warm travel dress option.
Best Flannel: Blooming Jelly Womens Plaid Dresses Flannel Babydoll
Why We Love It: The Blooming Jelly Plaid Flannel Babydoll Dress is the best flannel travel dress and is a budget-friendly choice for a long-sleeve option.
Consider This: The polyester material is thin and can be slightly transparent, and the fabric may feel a bit scratchy to some.
For those preferring long sleeves, this Amazon find offers an affordable alternative to heavier sweater dresses. Despite being flannel, it’s surprisingly lightweight, although it can appear sheer in certain lighting, suggesting the need for a slip. The material is soft but slightly scratchy, which was not a major deterrent for testers. The flowy fit is true to size, with an adjustable waist tie. It can also be worn open as a layering piece. Overall, it’s a great value for its price as a casual and packable women’s travel dress.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: S-XL
- Material: Polyester
- Closure: Button front
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Alt Text: Woman wearing the Blooming Jelly Flannel Babydoll Dress, showing its casual and long-sleeve style for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-blooming-jelly-plaid-flannel-dress-nicole-oswald-16-87a10d9ff1724b2aac99197929c7bc10.jpeg)
Alt Text: Traveler in the Blooming Jelly flannel dress, highlighting its comfortable and versatile babydoll design for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-blooming-jelly-plaid-flannel-dress-nicole-oswald-13-76e347c50e0945b099f10703d1a5de79.jpeg)
Alt Text: Rear view of a woman in the Blooming Jelly flannel dress, showing its fit and style from behind for travel wear. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-blooming-jelly-plaid-flannel-dress-nicole-oswald-20-5eceb65ffd304e039d16ad67dc846370.jpeg)
Alt Text: Blooming Jelly flannel dress folded in a suitcase, demonstrating its packability as a budget-friendly travel option. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-blooming-jelly-plaid-flannel-dress-nicole-oswald-19-3a644d648cf3413da378504a7b86cf21.jpeg)
Alt Text: Blooming Jelly flannel dress packed in a suitcase, highlighting its compact size and suitability for travel packing.
Best Athleisure: lululemon Align Dress
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Why We Love It: The lululemon Align Dress is the best athleisure travel dress, loved for its sweat-wicking properties, stylish design, and exceptional comfort.
Consider This: The top may be too snug for those with a cup size larger than C.
Consistent with Lululemon’s Align collection reputation, this dress is both comfortable and stylish. Its stretchy activewear material remains wrinkle-free, making it suitable for various activities from lounging to errands to fairs. It packs down small, fitting easily into different bags, and the sweat-wicking fabric keeps you cool. The built-in shorts, though detached at the back, were found to complicate bathroom breaks. The snug top may not be ideal for larger busts. However, its ease, comfort, and sporty style make it a highly recommended women’s travel dress, especially for warmer weather and active travel.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: 0-20
- Material: Nylon, Elastane, Polyester
- Closure: Pull-on style
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Alt Text: Back view of a woman wearing the lululemon Align Dress, showing its sporty and comfortable design for active travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-lululemon-align-dress-nicole-oswald-04-72329659c0274639aef807b7fad4a815.jpeg)
Alt Text: Lululemon Align Dress with tags, highlighting its new condition and material quality as an athleisure travel dress. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-lululemon-align-dress-nicole-oswald-05-d9a3ce3970b349cd80e91fc73be7b08c.jpeg)
Alt Text: Close-up of the built-in shorts in the lululemon Align Dress, emphasizing its practical feature for active travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-lululemon-align-dress-nicole-oswald-06-9d8656558689423f979d40a3b70af606.jpeg)
Alt Text: Lululemon logo detail on the Align Dress, showcasing brand recognition and quality in athleisure travel wear. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-lululemon-align-dress-nicole-oswald-16-5d2a5765410941ad9a0b7183d453091e.jpeg)
Alt Text: Lululemon Align Dress compactly packed in a suitcase, demonstrating its packability as a travel-friendly athleisure dress.
Best Everyday: Lands’ End Women’s Indigo Tencel Fiber Midi Dress
Why We Love It: The Lands’ End Indigo Tencel Fiber Midi Dress is the best everyday travel dress, appreciated for its eco-friendly Tencel material, deep pockets, and versatile style.
Consider This: It runs slightly large and may require steaming upon arrival.
Eco-conscious Tencel makes this dress a comfortable and lightweight choice, versatile enough for various shoe styles and travel scenarios. The shirtdress design suits both daytime and evening wear. Initial wrinkles may require a quick ironing or dryer session, but subsequent packing showed minimal wrinkling. Sizing runs large, so consider ordering down. Side slits enhance mobility, and short sleeves offer shoulder coverage. Available in multiple colors, this dress is a practical and stylish everyday option for travel.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Material: 100% Tencel Lyocell
- Closure: Button front
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Alt Text: Woman wearing the Lands’ End Tencel Midi Dress outdoors, showcasing its everyday style and comfort for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-lands-end-indigo-tencel-fiber-midi-dress-melanie-stoltenberg-12-535781fafd9f4657a607094e567d5e79.jpeg)
Alt Text: Back view of a woman in the Lands’ End midi dress, showing its fit and design as a versatile travel dress. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-lands-end-indigo-tencel-fiber-midi-dress-melanie-stoltenberg-10-5070f48b120d423287832af59aceee6a.jpeg)
Alt Text: Close-up of the deep pocket on the Lands’ End Tencel dress, highlighting its practical travel feature. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-lands-end-indigo-tencel-fiber-midi-dress-melanie-stoltenberg-11-d94d833d36704501a65d9bd0e8e20370.jpeg)
Alt Text: Hem detail of the Lands’ End midi dress, showcasing its quality and design for everyday travel wear. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-lands-end-indigo-tencel-fiber-midi-dress-melanie-stoltenberg-14-3d5874a380254ddf82c21483a206dfea.jpeg)
Alt Text: The Lands’ End Tencel Fiber Midi Dress laid out, showcasing its full design and eco-friendly material for travel.
Best Business Casual: M.M. LaFleur Cassandra Dress
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Why We Love It: The M.M. LaFleur Cassandra Dress is the best business casual travel dress, offering a midi length that’s perfect for both daytime meetings and evening dinners.
Consider This: Linen tends to wrinkle, especially around the hip area after sitting for extended periods.
Linen is known for wrinkling, but this dress is relatively travel-friendly for linen. Steaming in the shower can easily remove minor wrinkles acquired during packing. However, expect some wrinkling around the hips and back after sitting. The midi length is versatile for various settings, from office to museums to dinner. Testers found the fit true to size, flattering without being clingy, making it suitable for professional and leisure travel scenarios.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: 00-20
- Material: 55% Linen, 41% Lyocell, 4% Elastane
- Closure: Button front
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Alt Text: Woman posing in the M.M. LaFleur Cassandra Dress on a sidewalk, showcasing its business casual style for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-mm-lafleur-cassandra-dress-taylor-fox-3-677f54d9d34341b29e3b225632cd9a74.jpeg)
Alt Text: Detail of the pocket flap on the M.M. LaFleur Cassandra Dress, highlighting its design and business casual aesthetic for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-mm-lafleur-cassandra-dress-taylor-fox-4-20b14f2735354505909a047bed254be6.jpeg)
Alt Text: Traveler wearing the M.M. LaFleur Cassandra Dress, showing its midi length and suitable style for business travel.
Best Utility Dress: Tuckernuck Lightweight Poplin Nala Dress
Why We Love It: The Tuckernuck Lightweight Poplin Nala Dress is the best utility travel dress, praised for being ultralightweight, breathable, and highly comfortable in warm climates.
Consider This: The pockets are quite small, best suited for items like credit cards or lip balm rather than larger essentials. It may require ironing before first wear after unpacking.
Despite being 100% cotton, this dress has a water-resistant fabric feel and dries quickly. It was significantly wrinkled upon arrival, needing ironing, but its travel advantage lies in its ultralightweight and space-saving design, ideal for hot weather travel. The utility style, with four pockets, is appealing, though pocket functionality is limited to small items. The boxy cut allows for movement, suitable for casual outings and errands, though bending over may require caution due to length. True-to-size fit was confirmed in testing.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: 2XS-4XL
- Material: 100% Cotton
- Closure: Button front
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Alt Text: Woman in the Tuckernuck Utility Dress with hands in pockets, highlighting its functional design and travel-ready style. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tuckernuck-lightweight-poplin-nala-dress-joy-kim-0012-578dc915f0e94cbf958b1b86f10b5324.jpeg)
Alt Text: Traveler walking in the Tuckernuck Utility Dress, showing its lightweight and comfortable fit for travel days. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tuckernuck-lightweight-poplin-nala-dress-joy-kim-0003-0dd6e05f2d954c6883ed15fb56de5a50.jpeg)
Alt Text: Tuckernuck Utility Dress folded, demonstrating its packability and lightweight material for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tuckernuck-lightweight-poplin-nala-dress-joy-kim-0004-296b55effdbd4d72b24b767940897dc5.jpeg)
Alt Text: Tuckernuck Utility Dress hanging, showcasing its utility style and design details for travel wear. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-tuckernuck-lightweight-poplin-nala-dress-joy-kim-0015-a8e29536b79441c1ad07e77572269fec.jpeg)
Alt Text: Tuckernuck Utility Dress folded in a suitcase, highlighting its compact size and suitability as a packable travel dress.
Best Size-inclusive: Hill House Home The Ellie Nap Dress
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Why We Love It: The Hill House Home Ellie Nap Dress is the best size-inclusive travel dress, praised for its comfort, easy care, and extensive size range and color options.
Consider This: The ruffle detail on the straps may not lay perfectly flat under the arms for all body types.
The internet-famous Ellie dress is celebrated for its ease, comfort, and wide size range. Its cotton material held up well after suitcase packing, with wrinkles disappearing overnight on a hanger. The Ellie dress is versatile for various occasions, from lounging to parties, and is machine washable. While pricier for a cotton dress, its quality and variety of colors (22 options) justify the cost.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: 3XS-4XL
- Material: 100% Cotton
- Closure: Pullover style
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Alt Text: Back view of a woman wearing the Hill House Ellie Nap Dress outdoors, showcasing its comfortable and size-inclusive design for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-hill-house-the-ellie-nap-dress-heer-chaudri-13-87f278fbb50e4cf088e5c2e42d6ac6d8.jpeg)
Alt Text: Close-up of the Hill House Ellie Nap Dress with hands in pockets, highlighting its relaxed fit and travel-friendly features. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-hill-house-the-ellie-nap-dress-heer-chaudri-12-b3139136806b4321bfa27aeb06b7e84d.jpeg)
Alt Text: The Hill House Ellie Nap Dress laid out, showcasing its full design and size-inclusive range as a travel dress option. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-hill-house-the-ellie-nap-dress-heer-chaudri-9-4fd1e695ffc34f12ad328617544e8003.jpeg)
Alt Text: Woman in the Hill House Ellie Nap Dress outdoors, showing its stylish and comfortable design for travel and leisure. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-hill-house-the-ellie-nap-dress-heer-chaudri-19-7d9052166ba34ddfa0cedbbe062bc9ca.jpeg)
Alt Text: Hill House Ellie Nap Dress packed in a suitcase using a packing cube, demonstrating its packability for size-inclusive travel wardrobes.
Best Value: Anrabess Short Sleeve Maxi Dress
Why We Love It: The Anrabess Short Sleeve Maxi Dress is the best value travel dress, offering a loose, flowy fit and over 40 color options at an affordable price point.
Consider This: While packable, it is prone to some wrinkling.
For an affordable and versatile dress, this Amazon option is a great find. It’s lightweight yet feels well-made, with a comfortable, airy fit that isn’t sheer. It does wrinkle slightly when packed, but creases tend to smooth out with wear or hanging. Its compact size makes it a useful backup travel outfit. The maxi length suits those around 5’4″, potentially becoming midi for taller individuals. With a vast color selection, it’s a fantastic budget-friendly women’s travel dress.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: S-XXL
- Material: 35% Rayon, 60% Polyester, 5% Spandex
- Closure: Pullover style
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Alt Text: Woman wearing the Anrabess Maxi Dress, showcasing its flowy and comfortable style as a value travel option. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-anrabess-short-sleeve-maxi-dress-alicia-dolieslager-23-f27627b696664b35b7ab0d2e8052f5c5.jpeg)
Alt Text: Traveler in the Anrabess Maxi Dress, highlighting its versatile style and comfortable fit for everyday travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-anrabess-short-sleeve-maxi-dress-alicia-dolieslager-16-3c0ec20b0ed745a5a709f1640dadfe2c.jpeg)
Alt Text: Anrabess Maxi Dress folded in a bag, demonstrating its packability as a value-priced travel dress. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-anrabess-short-sleeve-maxi-dress-alicia-dolieslager-17-be1f02a1631248f0a12061f970366870.jpeg)
Alt Text: Anrabess Maxi Dress rolled for packing, showing its compact size and ease of packing for budget travelers. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-anrabess-short-sleeve-maxi-dress-alicia-dolieslager-04-751529f9638a454fa5bc1a14f346bcda.jpeg)
Alt Text: Anrabess Maxi Dress laid out, showcasing its simple and versatile design as a budget-friendly travel dress.
Best With Shorts: Halara Breezeful Flowy Dress
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Why We Love It: The Halara Breezeful Flowy Dress is the best travel dress with shorts, offering a breezy feel and including optional shorts for added coverage and versatility.
Consider This: The material has a texture similar to a bathing suit and is prone to wrinkling.
For those hesitant about shorter dresses, this Halara option includes separate matching shorts for optional underneath wear, ideal for active travel. The dress fits well in the chest and features a flowy, asymmetrical skirt for easy movement. Despite its airy appearance, the fabric is thick and feels durable, though it has a bathing suit-like texture and wrinkles easily. However, its comfort and warm-weather suitability justify its price, making it a practical women’s travel dress.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: XS-3X
- Material: 85% Polyester, 15% Elastane
- Closure: Pull-on style
- Straps: Adjustable
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Alt Text: Woman in the Halara Breezeful Flowy Dress standing in grass, highlighting its breezy style and travel comfort. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-halara-breezeful-backless-dress-hillary-maglin-5-420ea12c1fd14edc927a37a13f9aa6be.jpeg)
Alt Text: Rear view of a traveler in the Halara dress, showing its flowy back design and suitability for warm travel climates. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-halara-breezeful-backless-dress-hillary-maglin-7-0d1be7737ed84aa0a70b27344fbb2453.jpeg)
Alt Text: Demonstrating the included shorts with the Halara Breezeful Dress, emphasizing its practical feature for active travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-halara-breezeful-backless-dress-hillary-maglin-13-779f685d0b67429492f906fd8be45577.jpeg)
Alt Text: Halara Breezeful Dress and shorts laid out, showcasing the complete set and design for travel versatility. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-halara-breezeful-backless-dress-hillary-maglin-19-298f5ddacfe94146a61b7f7dbbb29671.jpeg)
Alt Text: Halara Breezeful Dress packed in a backpack, highlighting its packability as a travel-friendly option for women.
Best Fitted: Vuori Pose Sands Dress
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Why We Love It: The Vuori Pose Sands Dress is the best fitted travel dress, loved for its comfortable, body-hugging fit that is flattering without feeling restrictive.
Consider This: It is prone to wrinkles after packing and may require steaming or ironing before wearing straight from luggage.
Vuori’s athleisure dress offers a more dressed-up look than typical athleisure wear, suitable for slightly dressier travel occasions (though the logo label limits formal settings). It hugs the body in a flattering way and is made from comfortable workout-style material. It packs small, but wrinkles are a concern, necessitating steaming or ironing post-packing. Despite this, its quality and versatile style make it a valuable travel asset.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: XXS-XXL
- Material: 87% Modal Rayon, 13% Elastane
- Closure: Pullover style
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Alt Text: Woman wearing the Vuori Pose Sands Dress outdoors, showcasing its fitted style and versatility for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-vuori-pose-sands-dress-sarah-barber-12-b0f3b9b731cb4f1d920353b2e1c10380.jpeg)
Alt Text: Close-up of a traveler in the Vuori Pose Sands Dress, highlighting its flattering fitted design for stylish travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-vuori-pose-sands-dress-sarah-barber-03-814d99b282d64d358ca3512f85c7f5ae.jpeg)
Alt Text: Hand touching the fabric of the Vuori Pose Sands Dress, showing its material and new condition as a travel dress option. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-vuori-pose-sands-dress-sarah-barber-01-a9d5a540b02c47c1b72e3fb588ec6ca7.jpeg)
Alt Text: Vuori Pose Sands Dress folded, demonstrating its packability and fitted design for travel wardrobes. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-vuori-pose-sands-dress-sarah-barber-17-8e142a69f90640228000505bcd0b1d38.jpeg)
Alt Text: Vuori Pose Sands Dress packed in a suitcase, emphasizing its compact size but noting potential wrinkling for travel.
Most Versatile: Spanx AirEssentials Tie-waist Tank Dress
Why We Love It: The Spanx AirEssentials Tie-waist Tank Dress is the most versatile travel dress, blending the sophistication of business casual with the comfort of loungewear.
Consider This: It may be a bit long for petite individuals.
This dress excels in blending office-appropriate style with exceptional comfort. Testers wore it to work and social events, receiving compliments throughout the day. Loosely rolling it in a tote bag resulted in minimal wrinkling, easily smoothed out with a quick steam. The fit is true to size, though the midi length might be long for petite frames (hemming is an option). Currently on final sale, it offers excellent value for a versatile women’s travel dress.
Dress Details:
- Sizes: XS-3X
- Material: Modal, Polyester, Elastane
- Closure: Pullover style
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Alt Text: Woman wearing the Spanx AirEssentials Tie-waist Tank Dress outdoors, showcasing its versatile and stylish design for travel. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-spanx-airessentials-tie-waist-tank-dress-elise-wang-11-bb0edf35be524562839f967b7aaab0f6.jpeg)
Alt Text: Rear view of a traveler in the Spanx dress, showing its fit and elegant design suitable for various travel occasions. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-spanx-airessentials-tie-waist-tank-dress-elise-wang-10-cab2ed8d9c4f45199a4504e97c31c479.jpeg)
Alt Text: Traveler with hands in pockets in the Spanx dress, highlighting its practical features and versatile travel style. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-spanx-airessentials-tie-waist-tank-dress-elise-wang-01-93f9c308fe824568b522aa84e15080f3.jpeg)
Alt Text: Spanx AirEssentials Dress rolled up, demonstrating its packability and minimal wrinkling for travel convenience. - :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tal-spanx-airessentials-tie-waist-tank-dress-elise-wang-17-98d7e469e4d64700bcf793a2d4c16505.jpeg)
Alt Text: Spanx AirEssentials Dress folded in a suitcase, emphasizing its compact size and wrinkle-resistance for travel packing.
Our Testing Process for Travel Dresses
To identify the best packable women’s travel dresses, we conducted real-world tests on all our top selections. We wore each dress for at least two days, noting fit, comfort, breathability, design features, movement range, and versatility. Dresses were packed in purses, totes, backpacks, and suitcases overnight, assessing packability, wrinkle resistance, and ease of wrinkle removal. Our evaluation will continue over six months to ensure long-term durability and comfort during travel.
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Alt Text: Anrabess Maxi Dress rolled in a backpack, illustrating the testing process for packable travel dresses.
Tips for Choosing Your Perfect Women’s Travel Dress
Prioritize Wrinkle-Resistant Fabrics
Selecting wrinkle-resistant materials is key to looking polished while traveling. Activewear fabrics and high-stretch materials like nylon, elastane, or jersey maintain their shape even when packed. While cotton can wrinkle, thicker blends can offer reasonable wrinkle resistance. Linen, though lightweight, is prone to wrinkling.
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Alt Text: Close up of the Beyond Yoga dress fabric, emphasizing the importance of wrinkle-resistant materials in travel dresses.
Consider Your Travel Plans
The ideal travel dress depends on your trip’s nature. A business conference requires different attire than active outdoor adventures. Consider breathable fabrics and built-in shorts for hot climates or activities. For sightseeing in religious sites, longer lengths and sleeves may be necessary for cultural appropriateness.
Look for Travel-Friendly Features
Features like pockets, four-way stretch, sweat-wicking, quick-drying, stain resistance, and adjustable straps enhance a travel dress’s utility. Always review product details for standout features before purchasing your women’s travel dress.
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Alt Text: Pockets on the Royal Robbins travel dress, highlighting travel-friendly features to look for in women’s dresses.
Frequently Asked Questions about Women’s Travel Dresses
- How do you fold a dress for travel to minimize wrinkles? Fold sides inward, then fold in half or roll from the bottom. Use packing cubes or garment bags to prevent unfolding, or tissue paper when folding. Place dresses on top of heavier suitcase items.
- What is the most comfortable style of dress for travel? Comfort is subjective, but breathable, soft materials enhance comfort regardless of style. Check size charts for proper fit, as ill-fitting clothes are never comfortable.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Travel + Leisure contributor Ashley Phillips, a fashion writer with over a decade of experience and a frequent traveler, partnered with T+L editors to compile this list of best packable dresses, all tested in real-life travel scenarios.
Edited by Jackie Cucco, a testing editor at Travel + Leisure with extensive experience in product testing and travel-related reviews.
