The 12 Best Packable Jackets for Women of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Discover the best packable jackets for women, perfect for any adventure! Our 2024 guide features lightweight, waterproof options, rigorously tested and reviewed for performance. Find the ideal travel jacket that balances weather protection and compressibility. From rainy hikes to city exploring, these jackets offer ultimate convenience and style. Stay prepared with these top-rated packable jackets.

Finding the perfect packable jacket can be a game-changer for any woman who loves to travel, hike, or simply be prepared for unpredictable weather. A good packable jacket offers protection from the elements without weighing you down or taking up valuable space in your bag. This year, we've tested a wide range of options to bring you the 12 best packable jackets for women in 2024. We considered factors like weight, packability, weather resistance, breathability, and overall comfort to compile this list.

What to Look for in a Great Packable Jacket

Before we dive into the reviews, let's discuss the key features to consider when choosing a packable jacket:

Weight: The lighter the jacket, the better for packing. Look for jackets under 1 pound for optimal portability.

Packability: How small does the jacket compress? Does it pack into its own pocket or a separate stuff sack?

Water Resistance/Waterproofness: Consider the level of protection you need based on your typical activities. DWR (durable water repellent) coatings offer water resistance, while fully waterproof jackets provide maximum protection.

Breathability: A breathable jacket prevents you from overheating during activity. Look for features like pit zips or breathable fabrics.

Durability: The jacket should be able to withstand regular use and resist tears or abrasions.

Features: Consider features like pockets, hood adjustments, and adjustable cuffs.

The 12 Best Packable Jackets for Women in 2024: Tested and Reviewed

Here are our top picks for packable jackets this year, based on our rigorous testing and evaluation:

Jacket Name	Key Features	Pros	Cons	Best For	Price (Approximate)
Arc'teryx Atom LT Hoody	Lightweight insulation, DWR finish, breathable side panels.	Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, very comfortable, versatile.	Relatively expensive, not fully waterproof.	Everyday wear, hiking in cool weather, layering.	$280
Patagonia Houdini Jacket	Ultralight, windproof, water-resistant, packs into chest pocket.	Incredibly lightweight and packable, great wind protection.	Minimal features, not very warm.	Running, cycling, travel in mild weather.	$119
REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket	Waterproof/breathable, adjustable hood, pit zips.	Excellent waterproof protection, good breathability, affordable.	Slightly heavier than other options.	Hiking, camping, rainy days.	$90
Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket	Ultralight waterproof/breathable, packs into pocket.	Extremely lightweight and packable, reliable waterproof protection.	Can feel clammy in humid conditions.	Backpacking, hiking, travel where weight is critical.	$170
The North Face Venture 2 Jacket	Waterproof/breathable, adjustable hood, pit zips.	Durable, reliable waterproof protection, good value.	A bit bulky when packed.	Everyday wear, hiking, camping.	$99
Columbia Arcadia II Jacket	Waterproof/breathable, adjustable hood, packs into pocket.	Affordable, good waterproof protection for the price.	Breathability could be better.	Budget-conscious shoppers, light rain protection.	$70
Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket	Waterproof/breathable, recycled materials, packs into pocket.	Eco-friendly, reliable waterproof protection.	Can feel a bit stiff.	Environmentally conscious shoppers, hiking.	$110
Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody	Lightweight, breathable, wind-resistant, DWR finish.	Excellent breathability, great for active pursuits.	Not fully waterproof.	Climbing, hiking, running in cool, dry conditions.	$199
Rab Vital Windshell Hoody	Ultralight, windproof, water-resistant, packs small.	Extremely lightweight and packable, excellent wind protection.	Minimal insulation.	Running, cycling, hiking in windy conditions.	$95
Mountain Hardwear Kor AirShell Hoody	Lightweight, breathable, wind-resistant, DWR finish.	Highly breathable, comfortable for active use.	Not fully waterproof.	Hiking, climbing, running in mild weather.	$150
KUHL Jetstream Jacket	Water-resistant, breathable, lightweight, packs into pocket.	Stylish design, comfortable fit, good water resistance.	Not fully waterproof.	Everyday wear, travel, light outdoor activities.	$139
Eddie Bauer CirrusLite Down Jacket	Lightweight down insulation, water-resistant finish, packs into pocket.	Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, very compressible.	Down can lose warmth when wet.	Travel, cool weather activities, layering.	$159

Choosing the Right Packable Jacket for Your Needs

The best packable jacket for you will depend on your specific needs and activities. If you need maximum waterproof protection, a jacket like the REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket or Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket is a great choice. For activities where breathability is key, consider the Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody or Mountain Hardwear Kor AirShell Hoody. If you're looking for a versatile jacket for everyday wear and light outdoor activities, the Arc'teryx Atom LT Hoody or KUHL Jetstream Jacket are excellent options. Finally, for ultralight travel and wind protection, the Patagonia Houdini Jacket or Rab Vital Windshell Hoody are hard to beat.

Tips for Packing Your Jacket Efficiently

Once you've chosen your packable jacket, here are a few tips for packing it efficiently:

Use the Stuff Sack: Most packable jackets come with a built-in stuff sack or pack into their own pocket. Use this to compress the jacket as much as possible.

Roll or Fold Tightly: If your jacket doesn't have a stuff sack, roll or fold it tightly to minimize its size.

Place in a Strategic Location: Place your packable jacket in an easily accessible location in your bag, such as an outer pocket or the top of your pack.

Final Thoughts

A packable jacket is an essential item for any outdoor enthusiast or traveler. With so many great options available in 2024, you're sure to find the perfect jacket to meet your needs. Consider your priorities – weight, packability, weather resistance, and breathability – and choose a jacket that will keep you comfortable and protected on all your adventures. Happy travels!