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On the hunt for a lightweight packable rain jacket women’s style that’s perfect for your next outdoor adventure? Our readers share their top picks for outdoor and backpacking adventures!
Best Women’s Rain Jackets
Table Of Contents
When I first started traveling, I was mortified to see the price tags on some rain jackets, but I really needed gear for my trip to Machu Picchu. I ended up finding a cheap option at Target, but I regrettably learned that a jacket is NOT something to skimp out on!
A jacket is one of THE most important things you will ever choose for a trip and it’s absolutely important that it’s good quality.
If you get caught out in a downpour, especially if you’re hiking or spending extended periods walking outdoors, a quality rain jacket will keep you dry, warm, and comfortable. A cheap jacket that’s poor quality will let the rain get into your clothing leaving you cold and soaking wet – this is particularly dangerous if you’re on the trail and unable to dry your clothing easily.
For outdoor trips, stick to waterproof vs water-resistant rain jackets when possible to ensure you have the best protection from the elements.
Traveling to a city, not a mountain? Take a look at these stylish rain coats instead.
Traveling in the winter? These waterproof winter jackets are what you need.
Traveling in warmer weather but worried about a sudden downpour? These packable rain jackets are perfect for those exact moments.
What’s the best women’s rain jacket with hood? Find out below.
Shop Columbia Arcadia II Rain Jacket: Amazon | Columbia (Sizes XS-3X)
Columbia Women’s Rain Jacket
I love Columbia clothing for travel and outdoor adventures. Not only is it good quality, but the price points are also affordable and they offer inclusive size selection on many of their best selling products.
The above Arcadia II is quite possibly the most popular rain jacket and is available in over a dozen colors and sizes XS-3X Plus.
Tip: You can find a broad range of women’s rain jackets on sale on Amazon if you click through the different colors as some items are cheaper in certain sizes than others.
Marmot Precip Lightweight Jacket | Sizes XS-XXL
Marmot Women’s Rain Jacket
The list of features for Marmot’s Precipitation jacket is seriously impressive. Angel-Wing movement ensures easy mobility in this jacket while its silhouette is specifically designed to ensure easy layering.
It’s 100% fully seam-taped for optimal waterproofness, and the underarm zips offer ventilation. The specialized PreCip Dry Touch material provides a waterproof, breathable barrier, and it’s a highly recommended women’s packable rain jacket.
As a matter of fact, this Marmot jacket is the lightest, most compressible choice, so naturally we had to feature it! With a huge list of colors from which to select, you also can choose to your liking the look that suits your travel wardrobe best.
Eddie Bauer Cloud Cap Rain Jacket | Sizes XS-3X
Eddie Bauer Women’s Rain Jacket
While the insanely popular Eddie Bauer Girl On The Go Trench is a stylishly functional jacket for a city trip, a style like the Cloud Cap Jacket is better suited when you’re hitting the trail. Although if you want the best of both worlds, the Rainfoil Packable Rain Jacket easily transitions from the city to the mountain, too.
All of the aforementioned styles boast the Eddie Bauer trademarked advanced WEATHEREDGE® and StormRepel® technology to ensure protection from the rain and wind while also allowing for breathability. The jackets are also available in regular, petite, tall, and plus sizes. In fact, this brand has some of the best variety for a plus size womens rain jacket.
Eddie Bauer always has awesome sales but you can also check on Amazon where some styles are permanently listed at a discounted price.
For city not outdoor adventures, check out the Eddie Bauer Women’s Charly Jacket – it’s TFG Editor’s favorite! Learn why in our review.
Patagonia Torrentshell Packable Waterproof Jacket | Sizes XS-XXL
Patagonia Women’s Rain Jacket
The Patagonia Torrentshell is one of the best lightweight rain jackets for travel. It’s 100% waterproof, breathable, and comfortable. It’s ultra-practical features include valentine under arm zips, hand-warmer pockets, and adjustable hood with laminated visor.
Even more importantly, it features Patagonia’s signature bluesign®-approved fabric, made with tested and sustainably produced components, and is Fair Trade–Certified™. Patagonia is an awesome company known for designing quality products with the environment in mind so you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors with minimal impact.
Outdoor Ventures Waterproof Fleece Lined Rain Jacket | Sizes XS-3XL
Outdoor Ventures Womens Rain Jacket
Readers have been frequently recommending this Outdoor Ventures rain jacket. It’s lightweight yet very layerable to keep toasty warm when the temps drop, and it’ll keep the elements out due to the deliciously soft micro fleece.
It has a polished, slightly a-line shape to it that hits below the waist, and it not only comes in a range of colors, but in both standard and plus sizes!
Shop The North Face Antora Jacket: Amazon | TNF (Sizes XS-3X)
The North Face Cute Rain Jackets
Another sought after North Face ladies rain jackets, the Antora Coat offers versatility and functionality for travelers.
With an internal drawcord, its DWR finish and DryVent technology keeps the jacket waterproof and breathable. It’s windproof, to also keep biting cold out, just put you comfortable and dry. With a flattering fit, there are so many cute colors available!
Stylish rain jackets women’s designs are hard to come by, but this has a classic fit that’ll work with your wardrobe wherever you go.
Columbia Women’s Switchback Lined Long Jacket | Sizes XS-3X
Columbia Switchback Womens Lined Rain Jacket
The Columbia Women’s Switchback Lined Long Jacket is a waterproof jacket and an everyday essential, this waterproof longer form rain jacket packs versatile protection in a variety of stylish color options. With added polyester lining you’ll find this is a comfortable and trusty jacket ready for any surprise downpour.
Find out why Merino Wool is the ultimate fabric for travel!
L.L. Bean Trail Model Rain Jacket | Sizes XS-3X
LL Bean Womens Rain Jacket
L.L. Bean’s Trail Model is an easy essential. Equipped with an advanced ceramic coating that ensures both breathability and waterproof protection, this is a trusty piece that’s sure to keep you nice and dry.
The stow-away design makes this one of the top women’s packable rain jackets, while its waterproof TEK2.5® ripstop nylon is both breathable and sturdy. Lightweight and comfortable, this L.L. Bean jacket is great for travel!
Lands’ End Women’s 3 in 1 Squall Coat | Sizes S-3X
Lands End Women’s Rain Jackets
The Land’s End squall Coat is just as versatile as it is sturdy with the 3-in-1 design. The cozy, quilted inner jacket and outer shell can be worn separately or together, to suit whatever weather you encounter.
Downpours definitely won’t be an issue with its fully seam sealed construction, waterproof finish, and unique Primaloft insulation because you’ll stay toasty and dry without being weighed down. Zippered pockets on both the interior and exterior pieces provide plenty of storage.
If you’re looking for a jacket that can double as a winter coat, this is a good choice!
See what our readers ranked as the best packable rain jacket to travel with!
Shop Helly Hansen Aden Rain Jacket: Amazon | Hally Hansen (Sizes XS-5XL)
Helly Hansen Women’s Rain Jacket
The Helly Hansen Aden is extremely waterproof and perfect for multi-climate destinations. The quick dry mesh lining and polyester material make it a great versatile piece to bring along as a travel rain jacket or to wear as a winter coat by layering underneath.
Features include a durable water repellent finish, a high-neck collar for added warmth, and plenty of interior pockets to store your belongings when sightseeing.
Shop Columbia Pardon My Trench Jacket: Amazon | Columbia (Sizes XS-XXL)
Columbia Stylish Rain Jacket with Cinched Waist
Among the most popular Columbia jackets for women, the Pardon My Trench is a lightweight women’s rain jacket that is as practical as it is chic. With an adjustable tie waist, the fit is both customizable and flattering.
Its back venting system offers breathability, while a detachable hood offers multiple styles of wearability. Adjustable cuffs provide personalized coverage, and the coat itself has a stylish, classic silhouette.
While you can wear it on the mountain, this also acts as the best lightweight rain jacket for travel abroad, too!
Here are a few trench coat styles to inspire your travel wardrobe this season!
Columbia Splash A Little Rain Jacket: Sizes XS-XXL Regular | 1X-3X Plus
Cute Women’s Rain Jackets with Hood
A cute rain jacket with an equally cute name! As you can see, Columbia has no shortage of fashionably outerwear options. The omni-tech features of the Splash A Little jacket ensures a waterproof and breathable product.
It’s fully seamed so you don’t have to worry about any moisture getting in. Hidden zippers create a clean-looking design, adjustable cuff tabs provide personalized coverage, and a number of pockets throughout offer handy, on-the-go storage.
Quince Women’s Weatherproof Rain Jacket | Sizes XS-XL
Quince Womens Rain Jackets
As you can see with our list, we have several styles from the same brands including Quince. Some brands just know how to make the best rain gear for women and this is one of the top ones.
This Weatherproof Jacket by Quince is made of recycled polyester, it’s waterproof and breathable to provide all-day comfort and long-lasting durability. And since it’s light enough to stash in your bag, you’ll be protected wherever you travel.
It’s conveniently lightweight, while offering plenty of functionality and has a 3 colors from which to choose. Also available in long version!
Lole Lachine Waterproof Rain Jacket | Sizes XS-3X
Lole’s Women’s Rain Jacket
Versatile and functional, the Lole’s waterproof jacket comes equipped with many features, such as sturdy pockets, an drawstring, adjustable hood, and its own carrying case.
This lightweight rain jacket for travel is waterproof and seam-sealed for optimal protection. It’s heavily functional while remaining breathable. You can’t go wrong with this new find!
SaphiRose Rain Poncho | One size
SaphiRose Summer Rain Jacket
This rain poncho from SaphiRose makes the ideal summer rain jacket women’s style to keep in your day bag and throw on for an unexpected downpour.
Readers love the extended length and how effective it is in the rain. It’s lightweight and packable and it fits in its own pocket!
Ranging from perky polka dots to bold stripes, this poncho is offered in many cute prints and will add a pop of color to any grey and gloomy days you might encounter on vacation.
Which do you think is the most stylish rain jacket for women? Please share in the comments!
For more travel clothing articles, please read:
- Most Comfortable Pants
- Most Recommended Travel Shirts
- Lightweight Denim Jackets
- Classic Cashmere Sweaters
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I bought the Eddie Bauer raincoat for my Alaska crusie and it worked perfectly. I was able to wear a fleece underneath when we were cruising through the glaciers and I was perfectly warm and dry. Hint – Buy a fun color and your travel partner will have an easier time finding you in a crowd!
Just recently got Eddie Bauer Girl on the Go trench coat and loving the look and length. A great deal when it goes on sale. Now looking for a reason to be out in the rain.
I love that you have researched this area but very few of these jackets cover your butt. I honestly think a rain jacket is all but useless if it doesn’t keep your bum dry.
This post has been so helpful! Travelling to Paris in early spring, I knew I needed a coat for the rainy weather. I was also committed to traveling with carry on only, thanks to the tips from this post and the FB group!
I live near Seattle and wear rain jackets and coats all the time. In the past couple of years, I have purchased and adore my Athleta raincoats, especially the ones that are described as “waterproof”. I have the “water resistant” ones too, for light rain days, but in downpours I love the waterproof ones as they are cute and truly work!
Thanks for the suggestions. Lots of nice ones. Love your site!
I have the LLBean Trail jacket in navy. It sheds water and keeps me really dry in the rain. You can layer it on top of warm clothing, fleece or other jackets and it will also act as a wind break. I highly recommend it for travel. It is it lightweight and takes up very little space in a backpack or carryon.
There are some great suggestions here but my favorite rain jacket is from Kuhl! I haven’t seen Kuhl mentioned on the blog but recommend checking it out. They have some great travel pieces. Their rain jacket is flattering, lightweight, and long. It’s my favorite that I’ve tried!
The North Face Venture is excellent! Velcro wrist adjustment, covered zipper and terrific hood enhance the waterproof feature. The jacket dries very quickly, folds tiny and allows for sweatshirt or wool sweater underneath. It is my go to October into January depending on the temperature (I live in New England). Mine has gone with me to Ireland, Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Terrific as a windbreaker. Highly recommend. North Face stands behind their products.
Thanks for this great info!
Hi Sami, so please you found this article helpful! Thank you for your feedback ?
Hello,
What Coat/Jacket would you recommend when going to London in December? I read online it would be cold and rainy weather. And i am not sure the rain coats here provide enough warmth. Thanks
Hi Ai, thank you for reaching out. For other suggestions for warmer winter jackets, check out the options on this post: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/14-waterproof-jackets-for-stylish-winter-travel/ You might also find this article helpful for tips for how to layer your clothes so that you are warm when out sightseeing: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-stay-warm-in-cold-weather/ Hope this helps. Have an awesome trip to London! ?
Hi there,
Im going on my first cruise ever and its a 2 week South American ( hitting Argentina, Chile and uraguay, I think ! I get very overwhelmed when I have to pack even for a wknd somewhere ,lol so I could really use some help. All I have is a thin simple windbreaker style. very casual.( would that be sufficient.) any other tips on this packing trip would be great! our trip is a mix of both cold and warm.
tnx!!!
Hi Sue, the best place to start planning your packing would be to have a look at this post for tips for what to pack for a cruise: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-a-cruise-vacation/ You may also find this post interesting since it is your first time on a cruise: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/first-time-cruise-tips-what-to-pack/ Also for specific help to help with you packing to South America, have a look at this 10 step guide: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guide-south-america/ Hope this helps! Have an amazing time on your cruise, your trip sounds fantastic!! 🙂
What parka/ coat is the model wearing in the picture?
Hi Karen, unfortunately the product sold out some time ago so we’re not sure of the brand. Sorry we couldn’t have been more helpful 🙁
i’ve just seen Uniglo’s Range of lightweight water resistant windbreaker type jackets and coats. I don’t think they are suitable for any heavy duty trekking or super wet or really cold weather but they are terrific for travel. 2 or 3 different lengths and styles and around 4 colours in that clean unfussy styling that Uniglo does so well.
Thanks for your feedback Karyn, good to know!
Oh my goodness you guys, you need to Check out outdoor researches ladies jackets!! Soooo many cute and stylish options!!! I LOVE this blog, you save me so much time of scouring the Internet!!
What Rain jacket do you think I need if I am going to France,Italy and Greece in May,june and July next yr 10 weeks do I take my full on Gortex jacket or just a light shower proof jacket that takes up less room
I think just a light one would do the trick! It’s warm at that time of year and you don’t want a heavy outer layer! Sounds like an awesome trip! Enjoy!
I love windbreakers, especially camo. My favorite is UA Storm Windstopper. It does cost more than what most people may be willing to pay, but it manages to keep you completely dry during considerably heavy rains.
Thanks for the recommendation Aleta! I will have to check that one out! Happy travels!
Aleta,
I you know someone in the military, or retired from it, they can get get you the real deal Goretex jacket! Absolutely the
driest and warmest thing available! I have one ( earned it!), but rarely wear it
except at home. Next best is LlBean’s Stowaway Goretex rain jacket, which is also windproof. This one goes absolutely everywhere with me, and I’ve
been very glad I had it during torrential
downpours!
Can also be worn in the coldest winter if you add both light (150) and mid weight (250) Smartwool tops, and one Patagonia puff vest in Primaloft. I
leave Denver in January ( icy cold and windy)! Then peel out of a good bit of it
by the time we reach Hawaii’s Big Island. Since we stay at Kiluea Crater’s
Military Camp, most days and nights are
chilly, windy and very wet. A true Godsend jacket. Even better if you can find it on sale. Mine is black so I think it’s pretty classy for anything.
Connie
Where is the cute jacket from in the main image (top of page)?!
Hi Rachel! That picture is a stock image so unfortunately, I don’t know where the jacket is from. However, this is a very similar style: http://bit.ly/1SSq8tA
Hi! I tried to click on the link that has the similar style to the stock image on your page of the khaki colored rain jacket. Do you still have that information available? Thanks!
Hey! Really love your website and all the great information. I’m glad to see Helly Hansen on your list – I have the Helly Hansen Lyness Jacket and it is SO cute, lightweight, and functional! I’ve traveled with it and wear it daily for bike commuting and I’m surprised by how many people have never heard of them. 🙂 I only sort of stumbled upon them myself so I’m always glad when they get a shoutout since I’m glad I found them myself!
Thanks Nicole! Glad to hear how much you like the Helly Hansen jacket 🙂
Same here since I borrowed my friend’s on a river canoe trip…and of course it rained and rained with chilly winds. Nice to hear someone else that likes them.
Connie
Are any of these rain shells fully waterproof? Or are they all water-resistant?
I have a Sierra Design jacket that looks very similar to the Marmot Precip and I used it for years. But after about 20 minutes in the rain, the jacket starts to stick to your skin and you eventually get soaked through. It was fine for a light drizzle or if you only used it in an urban environment. But for a trek or a full day hike, I prefer Goretex.
I picked up an Arcteryx Beta AR shell on clearance a few years ago. Even on sale it was crazy expensive, but it’s the only jacket I’ve had (that wasn’t rubber!) that kept me totally dry. On a hike in Yosemite a few years ago we hiked the last 3 hours of the trail in a heavy downpour, and my upper body was bone dry when we got back to the car. I don’t know what Goretex is actually made of, but I swear, it’s magical!
Goretex is expensive but the number one fabric for waterproof. Definitely worth the investment if you plan to spend time in rainy cold climates. For this article, I pulled up the top sellers for rain jackets but you’d have to check the individual jacket details to find out which are resistant vs waterproof.
I’ll also check out the Arcteryx, thanks for your feedback!