Jeans are always my go-to pants for a casual and comfortable look. But when traveling they can sometimes be a pain, whether they’re too tight on a long flight or the fabric doesn’t stretch enough for all-day exploring. But with the right pair of jeans, you can still look stylish and stay comfy during your travels and avoid any wardrobe malfunctions.
That’s why I’ve put together this list of the best jeans for travel that will have you looking and feeling great on your next adventure. Whether you have a quick two-hour flight or a long 10-hour journey, this list of jeans will get you through it all.
From straight-leg jeans to some excellent flares, this list of the best jeans for travel has everything you need to look as good as you feel while exploring the world.
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What makes a pair of jeans good for travel
Finding the best jeans for travel is all about being comfortable and practical. No one wants to be sitting for hours on end with the button cutting into their stomach or the fabric rubbing against their skin. That’s why when looking for jeans to travel in, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Comfortable fit: Look for jeans that have a slight stretch and are not too tight or too loose. This will allow you to move around freely and avoid any discomfort during your travels. A relaxed fit or straight-leg style is usually a good option.
- Durable material: Travel can be tough on clothing, especially if you’re constantly on the go. Look for jeans made of durable material such as denim or a blend of cotton and spandex, which will hold up well during your travels.
- Versatility: Having a pair of jeans that can be dressed up or down is key when traveling. This way, you can wear them on the plane, during sightseeing, and even for a nice dinner out. Look for a classic style that can easily transition throughout your days.
Best Travel Jeans
JCrew Boot Cut Jeans
This pair of jeans from J. Crew is a summer travel staple. The cropped length and whitewash give off a chic and effortless look, perfect for warmer destinations. The stretchy material also makes it comfortable for long flights or road trips.
Paired with sandals, sneakers, or even a cute wedge for days on the boat, these jeans can easily be dressed up or down for any occasion. The classic fit also makes it a versatile piece to pack and style with different tops and accessories.
- Sizes Available: 23-37
- Length Style: Classic and Tall
Spanx Cropped Wide-Leg Jeans
These wide-leg jeans from Spanx are a game-changer for travel. Not only do they have a sleek and slimming fit, but they also have hidden shaping technology to keep you looking and feeling your best while on the road.
The cropped length is perfect for showing off your favorite sandals or sneakers, and the faded blue color gives it a laid-back yet stylish vibe. These jeans are also made with a lightweight denim material, making it perfect to keep your legs cool and breezy.
- Sizes Available: XS-3X
- Length Style: Petite, Regular, and Tall
- Multiple colors available
Good American Power Stretch Pull on Jeans
Jeans that feel more like leggings? Count us in! With no zipper and no button, these pull-on jeans from Good American are out of this world comfy. Made with a super stretchy material that gives you the comfort of leggings but the look of jeans. Perfect for long flights or days of sightseeing, these travel jeans will keep you feeling comfortable and stylish.
The flare style is also flattering on all body types and can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. I love these jeans with a pointed kitten heel and my go-to white t-shirt for a chic and effortless look. And when you need to travel, swap the heel for a pair of sandals or slip-on sneakers for a more travel-friendly vibe.
- Sizes Available: XS-5X
- Length Style: Regular
Re/Done High Rise Loose Jeans
If you’re looking for a more relaxed and casual option, these high-rise loose jeans from Re/Done are the perfect choice. Made with 100% cotton denim, these jeans have a vintage feel that will add some character to your travel wardrobe.
The high-rise style is great for keeping everything in place while on the go, and the looser fit allows for more breathability on hot days. Plus, they can easily be dressed up with a blazer and boots or dressed down with a graphic tee and sneakers.
- Sizes Available: 23-32
- Length Style: Regular
- Multiple Colors Available
Spanx Flare Jeans
Another amazing travel jeans option is the flare jeans from Spanx. Made with a high-stretch denim fabric, these jeans offer all-day comfort and support without sacrificing style.
The flattering flare silhouette elongates the legs and creates a slimming effect. And with multiple washes available, you can easily find the perfect pair to match your travel wardrobe. The jeans are a no zipper and no button design, making them perfect for long flights or road trips, just slip them on and go!
- Sizes Available: XS-3X
- Length Style: Petite, Regular, Tall
- Multiple Colors Available
Everlane Way High Jean
For a classic look that never goes out of style, these Everlane Way High Jeans are a great option for traveling. Made with 100% authentic cotton denim, these jeans offer a structured and durable feel while still providing comfort and stretch. I could wear these jeans all day without feeling restricted, making them perfect for long days of sightseeing or exploring a new city.
The high-waisted design and straight-leg silhouette offer a flattering fit for any body type. And with multiple washes available, you can easily find a pair that will fit your vibe. Everlane prides itself on transparency and sustainability in its production process, making these jeans a great choice for conscious travelers.
- Sizes Available: 23-35
- Length Style: 25.5 inseam, 27.5 inseam, 29.5 inseam
- Multiple Colors Available
Abercrombie High Rise 90’s Relaxed Jeans
Abercrombie has come a long way over the past 10 years, and now these jeans are my everyday go-to. The High Rise 90’s Relaxed Jean offers a vintage-inspired look with a modern twist. These jeans feature a relaxed fit and straight leg, giving off a laid-back vibe while still looking put together.
Made with soft and stretchy cotton denim, these jeans are perfect for long flights or days of exploring. The high rise waistband provides support and comfort, and the long length adds days to your legs giving you a sleek and elongated look. These jeans come in so many different washes, that you can easily find a pair (or two) to suit your style.
- Sizes Available: 23-37
- Length Style: extra short, short, regular, long, extra long
- Multiple Colors Available
Abrand 95 Stovepipe Liliana
Finding a comfy skinny jean can feel like finding a needle in a haystack, but look no further than the 95 Stovepipe Liliana by Abrand. Made with high-quality stretch denim, these jeans offer a comfortable and flattering fit that won’t lose its shape throughout the day.
The high-rise waistband sits comfortably at your natural waist, providing support without feeling constricting. The skinny leg style isn’t skin tight but just the right amount of fit, making these jeans perfect for both traveling and nights out. The jeans taper right at the ankle, making it easy to pair with any type of shoe.
- Sizes Available: 23-34
- Multiple Colors Available
Gap High Rise Easy Utility Jeans
When comfort is your number one priority, the High Rise Easy Utility Jeans from Gap have got you covered. Made with soft and lightweight denim fabric, these jeans offer a relaxed fit that’s perfect for casual days out or days in the car. The high-rise waistband provides support and coverage, while the relaxed fit through the thigh and leg adds a touch of a beachy style.
These utility jeans also feature multiple pockets, including cargo pockets on the thighs, adding functionality to their design. Pair with a classic white tank top or a flowy blouse for a comfortable yet stylish look. These are my go-to’s for evenings by the sea when the temperature drops and you need something to keep you warm but you don’t want to wear anything too heavy.
- Sizes Available: XXS-XXL
- Length Style: Petite, Regular
Old Navy Mid Rise Baggy Wide Leg Jeans
For a more relaxed and laid-back style, the Mid Rise Baggy Wide Leg Jeans from Old Navy are a perfect choice. These jeans feature a mid-rise waistband and extra-wide legs for a comfortable and easy-going fit. The baggy silhouette is on-trend and gives off an effortlessly cool vibe.
Throw on some Converse and a graphic tee for a casual look, or dress them up with heels and a blouse for a more elevated ensemble. These are the ultimate travel jeans with their uber-wide legs and breezy fit. They also come in a variety of light colors making them a summer staple for any wardrobe.
- Sizes Available: 0-30
- Length Style: Petite, Regular, Tall
- Multiple Colors Available
Express High Waisted Medium Wash
If you’re feeling like channeling your inner 70’s fashion icon, these High Waisted Medium Wash Wide Leg Jeans from Express are the perfect choice. These jeans feature a high waist and a medium wash with light distressing for a vintage feel. The stitched bottom hem adds a unique touch and will definitely make a statement.
The wide leg silhouette is flattering and elongates the legs, making them perfect for any height. I also really love the trouser fold button detail, giving it a more elevated look rather than just showing off the button fly. These jeans can easily be dressed up with a blouse and heeled sandals or dressed down with a crop top and sneakers.
- Sizes Available: 0-16
- Length Style: Short, Regular, Long
AE Stretch Super High-Waisted Baggy Wide-Leg Trouser Jean
For a more relaxed and loose fit, these AE Stretch Super High-Waisted Baggy Wide Leg Trouser Jeans from American Eagle are perfect. The stretch in the back of the waistband allows for a comfortable fit while still maintaining its shape.
The wide-leg design and baggy fit make it look like you just borrowed your boyfriend’s jeans but with a more feminine touch. The trouser style also gives it a more polished look, perfect for office or casual wear. With a deeper wash, these jeans are versatile and can easily be dressed up or down. I prefer these with an Adidas samba or slip-on sneakers for a more casual and effortless look.
- Sizes Available: 00-20
- Length Style: Short, Regular, Long
Jeans To Avoid Wear To Work
As I said before, not all jeans are work appropriate. And it’s time you stop wearing them. This is a sure short way to hamper your professionalism at work.
Here are the ones you should never wear:
- Super tight jeans. They are just not appropriate.
- Ripped Jeans. They just look so childish.
- Super low waisted jeans.
- Jeans with lots of embroideries or studs. They are good for country concert.
- Really faded jeans. They are no longer working for you.
- Colored jeans. This is a gray area. Which means, you can wear gray jeans.
