Most days of the year are short and jackets should be stored in your closet away from light and dust. But on the few days that are cold or rainy, some of the best jackets become too warm and bulky to be comfortable.
Luckily, like all good things, there’s a solution. Packable jackets.
A packable jacket is a jacket that folds down into a tiny pocket. Ideal for travel or storage, but just as handy for every day use. Especially if you carry a bag every day.
They are lightweight, easy to store and are a great addition to any wardrobe.
Read below for my in depth guide on the best packable jackets of 2019.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Essentials Men's Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Puffer Jacket | Best Overall |  |
| SUNDAY ROSE Women Rain Jacket Packable Waterproof Raincoat Hooded Spring Jacket | Budget Pick |  |
| MARMOT womens Precip Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. Amazon Essentials Men's Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Puffer Jacket
This is the best lightweight waterproof jacket you can buy on the cheap. 14 different color combinations gives you plenty of options and the Amazon price can’t be beat.
There are no bells and whistles with this jacket, just simple, straightforward functionality for a fantastic price.
2. MARMOT womens Precip Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket
Pros:
- Easily packs into its own chest pocket
- Pretty Good Water Repellency
- Affordable
- Reflective features for added safety
Cons:
- A Little Bulky
- Lacks a venting system
The Marmot Precip is an incredibly versatile, functional, and affordable jacket that will keep you dry and protected in any weather condition.
What makes the Marmot Precip stand out above the rest of the packable rain jackets out there is its two-layer Pertex Shield+ membrane. This is a waterproof yet breathable material that’s very, very light, and it’s what helps to keep the jacket lightweight and packable.
No longer will you need to carry an extra layer should the weather take a rainy turn.
3. Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket
Pros:
- Super lightweight and packable
- Keeps you warm and dry
If you’re looking for a moderately priced rain jacket that you can easily pack into its own pocket, then you should consider the Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket.
The Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket is made with Omni-shield technology that will protect you no matter the conditions outside.
Columbia must’ve spent a lot of time listening to what customers were looking for in a rain jacket because they built this jacket with what they learned. It’s impressively affordable, and you get a full-fledged rain jacket that’s durable and can easily be thrown into any backpack without taking up much space.
4. Columbia Women's Arcadia II Rain Jacket
Pros:
- Very compact
- Great material for staying warm in rainy weather
- Nice vibrant color
The Columbia Women’s Arcadia II Rain Jacket is a great product for this category. It’s great for the rain or just a chilly fall day.
The jacket was a little small, but I still love it .It is well-made and has a nice lining to keep it from being too cold. It’s pretty breathable and works well for attracting warmth. This is great for someone who wants to keep it simple and not have to carry around a bunch of items.
The straps in the front come undone to use with a backpack. If you’re doing a lot of trekking or running, having your hands free is great. The jacket is also very light.
5. Columbia Men's Watertight Ii Rain Jacket
Pros:
- Good in poor weather
- Water resistant
- No leaks
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
Cons:
- No hand pockets
- Short arms
- Noisy material
This is one of the best waterproof jackets for men on the market at the moment. It’s a top layer that feels great to wear even in wet weather. The rain jacket is lightweight and versatile, creating a barrier that protects against the wind and rain, essential elements to keep you dry and warm at all times.
The Columbia Men’s Watertight II is designed to be breathable and fully ventilated. It’s also packed with features that keep you dry, safe, unrestricted, and protected from the elements.
It has a full zip front with a built-in wind flap to prevent moisture from penetrating. It also has an extended collar and cuffs and adjustable Velcro tabs for easy closing.
6. Amazon Essentials Boys Light-Weight Water-Resistant Packable Hooded Puffer Jackets Coats
Pros:
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Packs down easily
- Full-zip for easy on and off
- Collar around the face as an added element of warmth
- Protects well from the elements
- Nice coat for an evening engagement when you’re outdoors and need a layer
- Comfortably fits tall people
- Sizes fit accordingly
- Expandable to fit a child or adult
Cons:
- Doesn’t fit over heavy winter clothing
- Can tear if not taken care of properly
- The buttons are made from cheap plastic, which can break if you’re not careful
The Amazon Essentials Boys Light-Weight Water-Resistant Packable Hooded Puffer Jackets, in my opinion, are great for any time of year.
With the ability to pack it away into a tiny ball, you’ll find that it’s very easy to tote around.
The coat is lightweight but is incredibly warm, considering how thin and lite it is.
7. Beyove Women's Waterproof Raincoat Lightweight Rain Jacket Hooded Windbreaker
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Small enough to fit inside a backpack or small purse
- Easy to fold up and put away
Cons:
- Very thin, so it probably wouldn’t do well at blocking out strong winds
- Sleeves are a bit awkward to fold up in the right way
Sports, Black.
This is one of the most popular packable raincoats out there. It’s easy to fold up into a small package that can be easily tucked away in a backpack or purse.
This jacket fits very snugly so it looks like it’ll protect your from the rain fairly well. The colors are fun too!
8. Columbia Women's Arcadia II Rain Jacket
Pros:
- Very compact
- Great material for staying warm in rainy weather
- Nice vibrant color
The Columbia Women’s Arcadia II Rain Jacket is a great product for this category. It’s great for the rain or just a chilly fall day.
The jacket was a little small, but I still love it .It is well-made and has a nice lining to keep it from being too cold. It’s pretty breathable and works well for attracting warmth. This is great for someone who wants to keep it simple and not have to carry around a bunch of items.
The straps in the front come undone to use with a backpack. If you’re doing a lot of trekking or running, having your hands free is great. The jacket is also very light.
9. Wantdo Men's Packable Insulated Light Weight Hooded Puffer Down Jacket
Pros:
- Highly Breathable
- Down-Proof
Cons:
- Poor color selection
- Heavy
The Wantdo Jacket is great for spring and summer because of its breathability and light weight. Overall, you won’t be disappointed if you purchase this jacket.
10. Women's Packable Windbreaker Jacket Resistant Convertible Cycling Running Jacket Lightweight Windproof Water
Pros:
- The smaller size makes it easy to pack in your pocket and carry around
- It is a lightweight jacket great for warm weather
- Packable jacket designed for convenience when travelling
- Its compact size makes it easy to store
Cons:
- May be too thin for those who are looking for a water and wind proof jacket
- The lightweight material isn’t as durable as other materials
This Packable Windbreaker Jacket is the perfect choice for you if you are a traveller or you like to go cycling!
The material is made from the best windbreaker fabric giving you the lightweight jacket you are looking for. It is water resistant and does a good job keeping you warm and dry on those cold winter days.
The perfect travel companion as well! It can be folded and fits perfectly in your backpack!
11. Rokka&Rolla Women's Lightweight Packable Down Puffer Jacket Coat
Pros:
- Comes with a dual pocket
- Could be a warm jacket on its own
- Great for travel
- Holds up in wind
- Comes with a hood
- Folds into a small zippered bag
- Lightweight
- Cheap
- Great small backpack
- Can be used as a blanket
Cons:
- No zipper pocket
- No pockets on the inside
- Hood can’t be taken off
- Very thin
- Sizing is small, order up a size!
Rokka & Rolla Women’s Lightweight Packable Down Puffer Jacket Coat Jacket is definitely a good value and a contender for the best packable jackets, especially for the price.
Being made with 80% down and 20% feather this jacket features a high quality material that is warm, soft, comfortable and lightweight.
12. BALEAF Women's Cycling Jackets Hooded Waterproof Windproof Packable Running Biking Raincoat Windbreaker Lightweight
You will likely spend as much as 40% of your time outside, but very few times will you be dressed for the occasion. Make sure to bring along this amazing coat from Baleaf, because it’s always better to have something and not need it than to need it and not have it.
It’s ideal for outdoor activities like biking, running, hiking, and going to the gym. It’s made from a durable Oxford fabric that feels very lightweight. it’s windproof, water-resistant and breathable, making your workout time much more comfortable.
As mentioned, it’s packable, meaning that you can fold it and store it in your pocket or anywhere in your bag. It’s also available in four great colors: black, grey, khaki and army green.
13. BALEAF Men's Waterproof Cycling Running Rain Jacket
This lightweight rain jacket will keep you dry with its 1,000mm waterproof polyester material and fully taped design. The jacket is PFC free and environmentally friendly for the casual outdoor adventurer.
The sporty style comes with four pockets and thumb holes in the sleeves that can reduce rain splash. It also has elastic drawcords at the front pockets and a concealed front zipper with Velcro. It is breathable and windproof.
For a rain coat, it is very lightweight, weighing in at 1.21 pounds. It folds into its own pocket, allowing you to carry this rain jacket with you wherever you go. It is also washable.
14. JTANIB Womens Raincoat Windbreaker Waterproof Lightweight Packable Hooded Rain Jacket S-XXL
Pros:
- Packs into its own pocket
- Comfortable and stylish
- Can handle a little water
Cons:
- Can be wet and heavy if water gets on the inside
- Zipper doesn’t close all the way around the front
- Zipper sometimes opens unexpectedly – not for high-intensity activities
This packable jacket is perfect for storing in your backpack, glove box, or vehicle the entire year. You certainly wouldn’t hesitate to take a summer ride on your bicycle, go for a hike, or for camping with it. With this jacket, the weather is never a problem.
The secret behind this jacket’s absolute packability is its two-sided design. Brilliantly, this jacket closes up into its own inside pocket, so it packs down into nothing.
15. Under Armour Women's Qualifier Storm Packable Jacket
Pros:
- Lightweight and warm
- Perfect for travel
- Great for layering
- Breathable material
A packable jacket is an excellent option for traveling, because it takes up hardly any room in your luggage. This one from Under Armour is made with a durable water-repellent, lightweight fabric with a DWR finish that will keep you dry.
It’s billed as a lightweight down jacket. However, I would say that it’s actually more on the lightweight side than the down side.
For me, it’s a good thing that the Qualifier is lightweight. I’m always looking for something packable that doesn’t add a lot of weight to my luggage.
16. Avoogue Raincoat Women Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jackets Packable Outdoor Hooded Windbreaker
Pros:
- Weatherproof… and machine washable!
- Packs seamlessly into its own left chest pocket
- Packs flat so it won’t take up much space
- Tear-resistant nylon shell
- Adjustable hood to keep your head out of the rain
- Includes a removable rain cover to protect you if it’s pouring outside
- Reflective trim on the sleeves
Cons:
- Running a bit small, order a size up
- Zip does not have a waterproof membrane (but the fabric is so tight-weaved, that it’s unlikely to leak!)
- Windproof, but you aren’t going to be spending the winter in it
What makes the Avague jacket so special is its design. It is constructed to pack down into its own chest pocket, making it easy to store in your backpack or suitcase. The jacket is constructed in Vietnam, meaning it is a popular product for backpackers in the area.
17. Hount Women's Lightweight Hooded Raincoat Waterproof Packable Active Outdoor Rain Jacket
Pros:
- Dries quickly
- Plenty of pockets to separate your stuff
- Compact and portable design (packs into back pocket)
- Has a waterproof coating
- Very lightweight
- Fits most people
- Good budget choice
Cons:
- * The hood can be a bit big
18. Calvin Klein Women's Lightweight Chevron Quilted Packable Down Jacket
Pros:
- Durable
- Affordable
- Packable
Cons:
- Small hood
- Not the warmest option
- Issues with smell upon arrival
When it comes to functionality this jacket has it all. The Women’s Lightweight Quilted Jacket can be worn on its own or it can be layered on top of your favorite fleece.
It is perfect for travel as it packs up into one of two zippered pockets. Toss it in your carry-on and you’ll be ready for any cold situation that you may come across.
The wide hood is great for keeping that wind-chill away from your face and your ears. The cuffs are adjustable, which is always nice, and the jacket’s sleeves are lined with thumb holes to keep your sleeve pulled down and prevent drafts.
19. Wantdo Women's Packable Ultra Light Weight Short Down Jacket
Pros:
- Ultra lightweight and compact
- Smooth texture and comfortable
- Even though its lightweight and compact, it can keep you warm
- Black Friday discount
- The perfect windbreaker for traveling purposes
The Wantdo down jacket is the perfect jacket to keep you warm and cozy during a cool day.
The warm material is feather-light in weight, making it perfect for traveling purposes.
The vest design features elastic cuffs to hold the sleeves in place, therefore, securing the jacket against the body.
20. COOFANDY Men's Packable Rain Jacket Outdoor Waterproof Hooded Lightweight Classic Cycling Raincoat
The cheap packable rain jacket is a must-have if you live somewhere rainy as it can easily be thrown in your backpack or glove compartment for those unexpected downpours.
The COOFANDY Jacket achieves this feat through the help of its clever construction. The outer layer is made from 2 polyester layers and has a PU coating. The 2 layers are stitched together along all the seams. Inside these 2 layers is a cotton lining. The cotton lining is what comprises the last layer. The 3 layers are stitched together along 2 of the seams leaving the top layer of cotton completely exposed. This is where the magic happens. When you unbutton the jacket, the 3 layers simply fold over creating the creases necessary to make the jacket packable.
The mouth of the jacket snaps closed when fully unbuttoned so it won’t fly open in the wind. There’s also a snap at the sleeve cuff to keep the jacket arms in place.
21. Little Donkey Andy Men's Packable Lightweight Puffer Jacket Hooded Windproof Winter Coat
Pros:
- Packable
- Keeps you warm despite its light weight
- Perfect length
- Hood is removable
- Affordable
- Made from recycled plastic bottles
- Comes in lots of bright, fun colors
- Super warm insulation is perfect for most climates
- Breathable
Cons:
- Not as durable as one might hope
- May not be durable enough for the great outdoors
- The coat might lose some of its cotton filling over time
- Runs a little snug
- The zipper is really hard to zip up
With a big V to keep your neck warm, the Little Donkey Andy is the kind of coat you can live in all winter long. It’s got an easy-breezy removal button on the upper body. It’s got a sliding fastening hem-lock that you can always unbutton to let in that extra bit of winter chill you love.
You can unbutton, unzip, and remove the hood if you think you don’t want it for the moment. You can simply remove the coat from its inner pouch and whip it out in whatever size you need.
22. Tommy Hilfiger 26" Hooded Chevron Packable w/Hilfiger Logo
When packing is not your strongest suit and you have to pack everything, anything that makes that part of the process a little bit easier, you go with it. We did and we were very happy with the 26" Tommy Hilfiger chevron packable jackets. The chevron colorful design of this piece is exactly what we are looking for. If you are looking for a jacket that you can carry around with you without taking up too much space, this piece is for you. Small carrying bag is also provided. Available in six colors and great fit.
23. ZSHOW Men's Packable Down Jacket Hooded Lightweight Winter Coat
Pros:
- Comfortable and roomy hood
- Soft and durable fabric
- Comes with a carrying bag
- Slight feminine fit
Cons:
- A bit heavier than expected
- Padding might be too thin for some
- No chest pocket
The ZSHOW men’s jacket is a very warm and comfortable packable down jacket for cold weather. It’s lightweight and extremely easy to pack away because of its small size.
The fact that it’s easy to pack is an important safety feature in extreme weather when a jacket can save your life.
24. XPOSURZONE Women Packable Down Quilted Jacket Lightweight Puffer Coat
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Highly compressible
- Versatile
- Packs into its own pocket
- Comfortable
- Easy to Wear
- Feels thin, yet remains insulating
- Beautiful design
Cons:
- Sleeves are a little narrow
- Sizing can be an issue for some
- Color doesn’t always match with photos
This packable jacket is made with top quality down that is the famous Duvet‒s trademark. It is very lightweight, thin, and soft. It is designed with modern lines and comfort in mind. This down jacket is ideal for people on the go. The synthetic down fibers help keep the jacket light and packable. You can easily fold it up and put it in your pocket.
This packable jacket is made from high quality polyester and high quality down, which together gives a durable construction. This jacket has a comfortable style and will retain its loft and warmth even after multiple washes. This jacket will keep you comfortably warm in any weather. It is very lightweight to carry when not in use.
25. Lock and Love Women's Ultra Light Weight Packable Down Jacket
This jacket is so light that you can easily pack it inside of your backpack. You can simply stuff it away when you're not using it. It's very soft, warm, and comfortable. It's not as padded as a thicker jacket, but it is surprisingly warm. The removable hood is a nice feature because you can detach it if you want to. The zipper works fine and if offers good coverage. The one thing that I don't like is the color, but I do like that it comes in more than one color.
26. 32 DEGREES Womens Plus-Size Ultra-Light Down Packable Jacket
Pros:
- Size variety
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Great alternative to a winter coat
- Affordable
- Very warm
- Versatile
Cons:
- Not the best durability
- Thin material
If you want to stay warm while being light on the pack, you have to get this. It packs into its own pocket and is incredibly light and comfortable.
The one negative is that the material is thin and is not the best at durability. However, this trade off is a small price to pay for the amazing warmth you get. It also looks great and comes in a variety of sizes along with many colors.
27. SoTeer Women's Waterproof Raincoat Outdoor Hooded Rain Jacket Windbreaker
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Water repellant
- Fashionable and great design
28. SUNDAY ROSE Women Rain Jacket Packable Waterproof Raincoat Hooded Spring Jacket
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Generous size
Cons:
- Has no venting
- No extra pockets
If you’re overwhelmed by the thousands of options out there and don’t know where to start when it comes to choosing the best rain coat for women, then you’ve come to the right place.
The Sunday Rose raincoat is the perfect choice if you want a budget-friendly and a highly functional jacket that is a notch up from the cheap, disposable ponchos available everywhere that will quickly disintegrate if exposed to rain. The Sunday Rose raincoat is made of a special waterproof fabric with a nice shiny finish which looks beautiful.
The raincoat also features an ultra-light design, a detailed shawl-collar with lap pattern, adjustable waist, and multiple storage pockets. The poncho is very generously sized, so if you like to layer up with leggings or long sleeve shirts then this stylish raincoat should keep you comfortable on even the coldest winter days. The manufacturer also makes women’s rain boots and gloves if you’re looking for a full matching rain gear set.
29. Wantdo Women's Hooded Packable Ultra Light Weight Short Down Jacket
Pros:
- Water resistant
- Warm
- Packable
- Light weight
- Ultra-soft
- Good price
- Quality packable down jacket
30. Champion Men's Packable Jacket
The Champion Men’s Packable Jacket is the best packable jacket we’ve tested.
It takes up almost no room when packed away in a bag or the pocket of your backpack. And, when you want to wear it, all you have to do is give it a shake and it’ll look like new.
We like that it’s made of a sturdy and windproof nylon material. The jacket is also seam-taped for added protection against the elements.
31. Obosoyo Women's Ultra Light Long Down Vest Winter Packable Down Jacket Lightweight Outdoor Puffer Vest Coat
The Obosoyo is the perfect packable jacket for spring and fall weather. Guaranteed to keep you warm without putting a big dent in your wallet.
The Obosoyo uses premium 800 fill down that’s baffle boxed and evenly distributed to ensure an efficient transfer of your body heat. Ultra-efficient, ultra-warm, this down jacket is a lightweight and affordable way to stay warm.
32. Calvin Klein Women's Chevron Quilted Packable Down Jacket
Pros:
- Very warm
- Can be packed up into its own pocket if you’re traveling
- Very lightweight
- Affordable
- Stylish
- Includes a travel pouch
The Women’s Chevron Jacket is made from 90% down and has a stylish chevron detail on the hood.
Despite how small this jacket packs up, it’s still very warm and comfortable. Make sure that you inspect this jacket for any tears before taking it on your trip.
It’s only available in one color, and it’s best to take it to a dry cleaner.
33. Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket
Pros:
- Plenty of storage
- Breathable material
- Great waterproofing
- Windproof
- Lightweight
- Fabric resists rain and prevents water build-up
- Packs easily
- Storm flaps on front zippers
- Strong zippers
- Large, easy-access pockets
Cons:
- Some may find it too small for their liking
- Some might find it too short for their height
- The hood might not be sufficient for rain
- Some might find it difficult to close the zippers
Conclusion
What is a packable jacket and how does it differ from a regular jacket? If you ever found yourself in a situation where you weren’t sure if you’ll need a jacket and find yourself regretting packing a heavy one only to end up not needing it, then a packable jacket is the answer to your problems. They are lightweight, compact, and expandable jackets that can pack into an extremely small space.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Essentials Men's Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Puffer Jacket | Best Overall | |
| SUNDAY ROSE Women Rain Jacket Packable Waterproof Raincoat Hooded Spring Jacket | Budget Pick | |
| MARMOT womens Precip Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket | Upgrade Pick | |