Found: A Ridiculously Cozy Cashmere Wrap That's Stylist-Approved And Travel-Ready
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."
Let's be honest: Traveling is stressful. You wait in a seemingly mile-long line to get through TSA, try to scarf down a $20 airport sandwich so your stomach's not growling throughout the whole flight, and then stand in another line to board the plane (honestly, it's a wonder any of us travel anywhere at all). Then, there's the prep of it all, i.e., trying to fit all of your personal items into a small carry-on bag and finding the perfect airport 'fit (you know, the important stuff).
Check out a few of the best travel wraps of 2023:
But if you're anything like me, when embarking on a long haul flight, style usually goes out the window. Sitting in a pair of tight denim jeans and ankle boots during a seven-hour journey in economy? No, thank you. Luckily, there's a solution that won't require you to sacrifice your personal style and will keep you comfy on the airplane. Introducing: The travel wrap. This large, blanket-like scarf can elevate any outfit, and also functions as a cozy swaddle when the in-flight AC feels subarctic.
Wherever your destination, these 12 stylist-approved travel wraps will make the experience getting there all the more comfortable.
Meet the Experts: Nyasia Rudolph is a fashion stylist and creative director based in New York. Jordanna Sharp is a personal shopper and stylist based in New York.
Oversized Cashmere Wrap
When shopping for a travel wrap, go for cashmere, advises New York-based fashion stylist Nyasia Rudolph. "It's warm, cozy, and always elevated." You really can't go wrong with this best-selling pick from J. Crew. Slightly lighter compared to other brands, it can function as a regular scarf, too, says New York-based personal shopper Jordanna Sharp.
Not only is it 100-percent cashmere (read: it's buttery soft), but the material is also ethically sourced from Mongolia to ensure the welfare of the goats, farmworkers, and the local environment. For an added personal touch, the brand gives you the option to monogram your wrap, too.
Rave Review: "I like how this wrap isn’t overwhelming when tied as a scarf yet is still warm and cozy enough for the movie theater or airplane when unfolded."
Classic Travel Wrap
This classic (it's in the name, duh) pick from Mersea is perfect for all your traveling needs. Large enough to serve as a blanket and keep you warm during those long flights, yet stylish enough (uh, look at those fringed edges) to still look great even if you're running on two hours of sleep. What's more? This best-seller comes in a matching travel bag for easy storage.
Rave Review: "A must pack on any trip. Fits easily into my bag and keeps me warm and comfy throughout the flights."
Cashmere Travel Wrap
"Another cashmere wrap but reasonably priced," Rudolph point out.
At nearly 50-percent off (uh, run, don't walk!), this cashmere travel wrap pick from Bloomingdale's offers luxury without the luxe price tag. Made from premium-quality fibers sourced from local Mongolian vendors, this wrap is uber-soft and the perfect accessory to add to your airport outfit. It's large enough to keep you cozy on the plane, but lightweight enough to wear all year round.
Rave Review: "This wrap is amazing! Very soft cashmere and it came with a great travel bag!"
Featherweight Cashmere Silk Frayed Edge Scarf
This pick from Quince is made from a cashmere-silk blend, and it's the perfect lightweight option if you're looking for a wrap that's not too heavy and fits comfortably in your personal travel bag. Available in eight gorgeous colors, this scarf is stylish yet functional.
Rave Review: "Gorgeous color (navy), whisper soft, and so light but perfectly warm."
Cashmere Travel Wrap
This travel wrap from White + Warren will take you from the airplane to the office to dinner. While it's on the more expensive size, Sharp still calls it "a good price point for cashmere." Plus, she says this wardrobe staple is a great value, since "the straight cut design makes it versatile and easy to style with lots of closet basics."
Still not convinced? This pick is lightweight and breathable (making it suitable for every season), large enough to be either a scarf or blanket, and comes in 26 (!) colors—a hue for every outfit.
Rave Review: "I read many reviews about this wrap before ordering. I’m going on an international trip and decided to order and it definitely lives up to the hype. I can’t wait to curl up on the flight with this wrap. It’s so soft and cozy. It will add beauty to any outfit."
Dreamsoft Travel Wrap
If cashmere isn't your thing—or in your budget (uh, raises hand)—this Amazon-favorite cotton wrap is a great option. Made from 100-percent organic cotton, its breathable, soft, and let's not forget machine washable. While it's not large enough to serve as a blanket, it is lightweight enough to fit comfortably in your carry-on and wear year-round.
Rave Review: "Love the look and feel of this scarf! It had a perfect balance of being able to keep me warm during colder temperatures, like when it rained or while on an international flight. I also could wear it when the temperature got a little warmer."
Pranayama Restore Wrap
Athleta's Pranayama Restore Wrap is best for the active traveler. It's made from a breathable, stretchy, and sustainable fabric that's perfect to comfortably throw on after a workout. And unlike other travel wraps, this one has sleeves, making it easier to move around in. If you're planning to hit the gym or the trail after your 5+ hour flight (uh, you need to stretch your legs somehow), you'll want to add this to cart ASAP.
Rave Review: "This wrap is unbelievably soft. It feels like you are wrapped in butter. It is warm, wears well, and the available colors are gorgeous."
The 3 Yard Wrap
Talk about a wrap! This one is made up of three yards (!) of fabric. Although it's the size of a literal blanket, somehow it's still chic. (It's definitely giving that meme of Lenny Kravitz walking down the streets of New York City with a ginormous brown blanket scarf—IYKYK.) Pair this pick with a matching monochrome outfit for a cozy, yet stylish airport look.
Rave Review: "I absolutely love this wrap! I’ve bought quite a few pieces from Bleusalt now, and it goes with everything. The wrap is so soft and lightweight yet cozy on cool evenings, or as a blanket on an airplane."
Baby Alpaca Square Edge Cape
This cape—made from 100-percent baby alpaca—is certified to keep you warm in those cold airplane seats. Coming in four luxurious neutral hues, you can feel comfy during your flights (and, er, layovers) without sacrificing aesthetics.
Rave Review: "Lovely cape. Perfect for the plane and then to have as a casual wrap. I have it in black and navy."
Wrap Poncho
This poncho can easily transition from a long haul flight to dinner plans. It's large enough to keep you warm under the brisk AC, but chic enough that it doesn't look like you're wearing a literal blanket. Still not convinced? Three words for you: It has pockets.
Rave Review: "Super soft and it has pockets. A little thin, but still nice."
Cashmere Wrap Scarf
While this cashmere wrap is on the pricier end, Sharps says it's certainly worth the investment. It's generously sized, so you can throw it on as a large scarf or cover your body with it like a blanket. Plus, it comes in three gorgeous neutrals, each of which you can pair with a matching sweater from the brand, notes Sharp. It's not a competition, but you'll for sure win the title of "Best Dressed" at the airport.
The Cashmere Wrap
This pick from Nantucket-based brand Alice Walk makes the perfect gift (ahem, for you of course). It's 100-percent cashmere, so you can trust it'll feel buttery soft on the skin. Plus, with its delicate fringe and 15 bright hues to choose from, this piece definitely makes a statement.
"I like to add a pop of color to all of my outfits, to stand out wherever I go," says Rudolph. "Alice Walk cashmere wraps come in every color you can imagine. This would be a showstopper in the airport! I immediately gravitated towards the hot pink and orange reversible wrap."
Rave Review: "I love the quality of the wrap. The colors are vibrant to the eye and yet shows an elegance at the same time. It really dresses the outfit. When I wear my wrap I feel special."
What is a travel wrap?
Simply put, "a travel wrap is a soft, large [piece of] fabric that can be used as a blanket, scarf, head wrap, or shawl when traveling," says Rudolph. It's incredibly versatile and available in a range of sizes and materials, namely cashmere and cotton blends.
What is the best size for a travel wrap?
Ideally, you want the fabric to cover your entire body, or most of it, when using it as a blanket—yet be small enough to function as a shawl and enhance your look without overpowering it, Rudolph notes. She adds that a travel wrap should be about 70 inches long and 30 inches wide.
"Optimum length for a travel wrap would be to your knees," says Sharp. "This way you can wear it long but also have the option to wrap it around your neck without it looking too bulky."
How do I style a travel wrap?
As travel wraps are so simple, yet versatile, you can get really creative with styling. Rudolph suggests pairing yours with cropped ankle pants, a knitted sweater, and your favorite sneakers. "If you plan on going into the office fresh off the plane, try pairing your wrap with wool trousers [and] a turtleneck, and draping it over your body like a shawl," she adds.
During a long travel day, you might consider styling your wrap with leggings, sneakers, and an oversized blazer "for the perfect cool, yet comfy travel look," says Sharp. Another simple tip: Coordinate the color of the wrap with your outfit, Sharp suggests. This keeps your 'fit looking uniform and chic.
When shopping, try to stick to versatile, neutral colors like brown, gray, shades of beige, and black, Sharp advises. "As it is a heavier piece, you want it to feel as elevated as possible."
How we chose the best travel wraps
Women's Health consulted professional fashion stylists Nyasia Rudolph and Jordanna Sharp for their personal picks. Assistant editor Naydeline Mejia also scoured the internet for the top-rated and reviewed travel wraps.
Shop more travel accessories
Best Travel Backpacks | Best Compression Socks | Best Travel Makeup Bags | Best Travel Pillows | Best Carry-On Bags | Best Weekender Bags
You Might Also Like