We love idyllic fall days—those colorful leaf backdrops; crisp temperatures perfect for walking; and plenty of sunshine. What we hate is packing bulky jackets to prepare for the not-so-hot fall weather interludes (think: rain, clouds, cold nights). We've rounded up some lightweight jackets that pack easily and travel well to keep you warm and dry on all types of autumn days.
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(Photo: Thinkstock/iStock)
Eddie Bauer Voyager II Jacket
Need to look professional or polished, but still want to be comfortable (in case you're not flying in business class)? The Eddie Bauer Voyager II (available for men and women is a hybrid between a jacket and a blazer. The button front and stand-up banded collar keeps it classy, while the two-way stretch and StormRepel DWR fabric keeps you comfortable and dry. It's also got two secure zip hip pockets and two chest pockets so you can hang on to everything you need.
(Photo: Eddie Bauer)
Showers Pass Elite 2.1 Jacket
Whether you're commuting to work or taking a rental bike around a foreign city, the Elite 2.1 Jacket by Showers Pass will keep you (and your stuff—there are plenty of pockets, including one with an audio port) dry and protected from the wind. Working up a sweat? This jacket (available for men and women) has seven venting options to cool you down. And you'll stay safe with the 3M reflective trim that keeps you visible from all angles.
(Photo: Showers Pass)
North Face Apex Bionic Jacket
Headed out for a fall hike? The North Face Apex Bionic soft-shell jacket is your perfect outer layer. The ClimateBlock exterior shields against cold and wind, and the interior fleece backer keeps you cozy underneath. It's also water-resistant in case of unexpected showers, and comes in tons of cute colors. (It comes in men's as well, but not in as many fun options.)
(Photo: The North Face)
Craghoppers National Geographic Oliver & Olivia Pro Series Jacket
If anyone knows travel clothing, it's the people at National Geographic. They've partnered with Craghoppers to make adventure goods that will stand up to any destination. The Oliver Pro Series Jacketchecks all the boxes for what we're looking for in fall outerwear—lightweight, a zipped inner security pocket, waterproof outside pockets, and a non-restrictive stretch fabric.
(Photo: Craghoppers)
TravelSmith Belted Trench
Whether it's warm and rainy or uncomfortably cold, TravelSmith's Belted Trench has you covered (literally). Worn alone, this jacket is 100 percent waterproof, yet also breathable. It packs down into an included travel pouch, is fully lined, and has two internal hidden zipper pockets for security. When temperatures drop, add in the quilted Thermolite liner (sold separately), which buttons in for warm insulation.
(Photo: TravelSmith
Toad & Co Nash Jacket
The Nash Jacket from Toad & Co is surprisingly warm for its light weight. That's due to its Birddog polyester flannel lining, a hollow-core material that adds warmth without weight. Outside, there's a drop-in phone pocket, adjustable snap cuffs, and split kangaroo hand pockets.
(Photo: Zappos.com)
Adidas Outdoor 3in1 Insulated Wandertag Jacket
We like jackets that let you adjust based on the temperature, like the Adidas Outdoor 3in1 Wandertag jacket, available for women and men. It uses the patented Adidas Climaproof technology to keep you comfortable (it's wind and waterproof) and it has an inner detachable jacket with padding that you can add as needed. The adjustable hood will fit any head and add protection from rain and cold.
(Photo: Adidas)
Free Country Everglade 3-in-1 Systems Jacket
For a more affordable 3-in-1 jacket, try the Everglade from Free Country. Its polyfil inner jacket zips snugly into an insulated outer shell, both which can be worn on their own. The detachable hood lets you customize your jacket even further.
(Photo: Free Country)
Patagonia Lined Canvas Hoody
Looking for something a little more durable to protect you on your travels? The Patagonia Lined Canvas Hoody won't let you down. This heavy-duty jacket is made from organic cotton canvas and lined with polyester fleece in the hood and body. A drop-tail hem provides extra coverage in the back, and the left pocket features an extra drop-in pocket to keep your phone and keys secure.
(Photo: Patagonia)
Montane Fireball Verso Pull-On
The Montane Fireball Verso is a super packable option, as it stuffs down into its own softball sized bag. It weighs just 8.6 ounces, so you'll barely notice it in your backpack or luggage. The jacket is reversible—one side is a puffy jacket and the other is a rain-resistant and windproof soft shell.
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More from SmarterTravel:
- Midweight Dresses for Fall Travel
- Best Travel-Friendly Shoes and Boots for Fall
- Seven Best Travel Clothes to Wear on the Road
(Photo: Montane)
Read the original story: Best Lightweight Fall Jackets by Caroline Morse, a regular contributor to SmarterTravel.
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