Hot take: I think pants make the outfit just as much as (if not more than) an incredible pair of shoes or a signature jacket. They’re the foundation, the anchor point, the staple clothing item of any ‘fit — which is why it’s so important to choose wisely when packing for a trip. For me, I tend to be super meticulous about comfy travel pants, ensuring I choose options that are functional, chic, and versatile enough for a range of activities on my itinerary.
This winter, there are a number of styles I’m favoring, from trendy wide-leg pants to tried-and-true trousers. (Of course, some comfy joggers and leggings are always on my packing list, too.) Here, I’ve rounded up the six comfortable travel pant styles I’m wearing this winter, with finds from Madewell, Everlane, Aritzia, Vuori, and more, starting at $20.
A Versatile Wide-leg Pant
Just like my airplane seats, I love a pair of pants with plenty of legroom. Over the last couple of years, I’ve swapped my skinny jeans for pants with a looser fit, and I’ve been particularly loving wide-leg styles this winter. A wide-leg pant makes a pretty big statement (as mentioned, pants are the cornerstone of the outfit), and they’re comfortable enough to wear for hours of sightseeing. Plus, this style is incredibly versatile — you can dress them down with a pair of sneakers or elevate them with some chic heels. Go for my favorite wide-leg jeans from DL1961 or Duer, or opt for Travel + Leisure editor-beloved Madewell Harlow pants.
Everlane The Utility Wide-leg Pant
A Sleek Trouser
Next to denim, I think a nice tailored pair of trousers is a true capsule wardrobe essential — and that goes for your travel wardrobe, too. I always pack at least one pair of trousers in my luggage, and that pair is most often the highly-versatile Aritzia The Effortless Pants, which are so comfortable and go with practically everything in my suitcase. I’m also constantly reaching for my soft pleated Everlane Draper pants, along with flowy yet tailored pants from one of my newest favorite Los Angeles-based brands, The Regular Program. For this winter season, I’m also eyeing a pair of corduroy trousers, like this stylish choice from Madewell, which is currently 40 percent off.
Everlane The Draper Pleated Pant in Buttersmooth
An Elevated Lounge Pant
Joggers are a year-round staple, whether I’m lounging at home or powering through a 12-hour flight. That said, cozy loungewear is especially welcome during the chillier winter months. I’m personally partial to Vuori’s iconic performance joggers, but I’m also loving the following options from Pact, Athleta, Beyond Yoga, and more.
Athleta Salutation High Rise Jogger
A Cozy Yoga Pant
Along with joggers, leggings and yoga pants are some of my go-to airline outfit staples. When locking in new leggings for winter, I look out for material that’s thick enough to keep me warm when I head outside (but not so toasty that I start overheating indoors). These are a few of my favorite finds, from Athleta’s insulated Rainier leggings to Girlfriend Collective’s flared leggings.
Vuori Chilled Out Leggings
A Stylish Hiking Pant
When it comes to winter outdoor activities, warm and cozy pants are an absolute must. For skiing or snowboarding, Kari Traa’s Lekker base layer pants are a game-changer — they’re so comfortable, not to mention incredibly cute. Stio’s tech leggings or Beleaf’s hiking pants are great options whether you’re taking a brisk walk in nature or spending hours on a plane. I also love to pack Hikerkind trousers in my suitcase year round; even though they’re technically designed for hitting the trails, they’re versatile enough to dress up for a dinner or a day of exploring a new city.
Baleaf Women’s Hiking Pants
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