When you’re venturing outdoors to hike, climb, or even go for a long-distance bike ride, a waterproof rain jacket isn’t an option — it’s a necessity. Heavy storms can surprise you out of nowhere! Nowadays, many rain jackets are packable (most of them into their own pocket!) because nobody wants to wear a jacket when the sun is shining. And let’s be honest: Tying it around your waist just isn’t cool anymore.
Toss one of these packable rain jackets into your backpack the next time you head outside, and you'll be prepared for whatever mother nature has in store.
There's a lot more to consider when selecting a packable jacket than just style. Of course, how it looks on you can be a factor, but how it fits inside your luggage is much more crucial. That means thinking about not just how the jacket packs — whether into an included pouch or simply folded up compactly — but also the size and weight of the jacket when compacted. After all, if it's taking up half your pack or weighing you down on your hike, it can ultimately be more of a hinderance than a help.
Another factor to consider is filling material. We've included options here that offer a range of warmth to weight ratios, with a major factor being the type of insulation they include ... if any. Many experts swear by goose down, because it warms you the same way it does the goose it came from: by trapping pockets of warm air close to the body. However, for many, there are ethical concerns regarding goose down and the manner in which it's obtained. If you're inclined to have those same quandaries, there are resources to determine if your goose down was ethically sourced (we recommend trackmydown.com), and there are also several synthetic filler options available.
Lastly, consider maintenance and storage when it comes to investing in a packable jacket. Packable puffer jackets, for example, can withstand being folded up in your backpack or suitcase for the duration of your travel time. However, if they're left compressed for weeks or months at a time, the filler can become worn down and flattened, rendering it far less effective. So if you intend to go the puffy route, be sure you have space in your home to hang it, rather than leaving it in your pack.
Here are the best packable rain jackets for you, no matter the weather.
Features a zipper garage in the collar to avoid skin contact with cold metal
Elastic at wrists and waist leaves a little to be desired
Key Specs
Material: Nylon
Weight: 8.47 ounces
The Mountain Hardwear brand has been producing gear for outdoorsmen for almost 30 years, partnering with noteworthy mountaineers like Ed Viesturs to develop outerwear that truly meets the needs of the adventurous. That's still true today, which is why the Ghost Whisperer 2 is our best overall pick.
Not only does it have a sleek, stylish design that makes it as perfect for a night on the town as a day on the trail, but its 800-fill insulation is made up of 90% goose down and 10% goose feathers, all of which are ethically sourced by Allied Feather & Down. In terms of packing, it folds neatly into its own right pocket and sports a carabiner clip for easy carry.
Some reviewers find the zippers stubborn or difficult
Key Specs
Material: Nylon
Weight: 12.7 ounces
If you’re an outdoorsman who lives by that Chief Seattle credo “Leave only footprints, take only memories,” this environmentally conscious attitude likely carries over to the type of items you pack.
If so, turn to the Fjallraven Expedition X-Latt. Not only is the insulation in this jacket synthetic, but its fabric and lining are both made from recycled polyamide. As for storage, this jacket sports two zippered side pockets, as well as an interior pocket that the jacket itself can fold into.
Only packs into external bag, rather than its own pocket
Key Specs
Material: Nylon
Weight: 12.7 ounces
If you're looking for a packable jacket that will fit any budget, Amazon has the answer. Their Amazon Essentials line creates an affordable alternative to name-brand items, including typically pricey outerwear.
This functional, packable jacket is made from 100% nylon with a 100% polyester fill, and is even machine-washable. It may not provide the same level of warmth as some of the other jackets on this list, but as a packable jacket that anyone can afford, it certainly gets the job done.
Strong elastic cuffs help keep heat in, even during strong wind
Some reviewers complain of an “odd fit” in the chest or shoulder areas
Key Specs
Material: Nylon
Weight: 14.08 ounces
This North Face jacket features a unique synthetic insulation called their trademarked Eco Thermoball. Along with being made entirely from post-consumer recycled materials, this 600-fill insulation is notable for being able to retain heat just as well when wet. This is the opposite of goose down, which often loses insulation power when wet.
This jacket features two side pockets, and can be folded into the left — as well as an interior — pocket.
Long zippered vents on sides allow for controlled ventilation
Wrist elastic can’t be tightened, which could allow snow in sleeves
Key Specs
Material: Polyester
Weight: 11.9 ounces
The Helly Hansen Odin 3D sports a few features that make it ideal for those whose outdoor adventures are of the snowy variety. First is the titular 3D element — the jacket's 3D printed backing — that helps keep the fabric away from skin, allowing for more breathability.
There's also the Helly Tech layer, a specially-designed outer layer that keeps water from seeping through, but allows sweat vapors out. Most crucially, while you hope you never need it, this jacket also feature Recco reflectors, which allow rescue teams to find you in the event you get lost in the mountains or on the slopes. The Helly Hansen also packs neatly into its own pocket.
Can be stuffed into pockets or rolled into its hood
Velcro adjustable cuffs can be irksome, especially in wet conditions
Key Specs
Material: Nylon
Weight: 1 pound
One downside to many of the jackets on this list is that while they're perfect for the great outdoors, wearing them on an errand run will have you looking like you just hiked the Great Western Loop on your way to the local pharmacy.
That's why Filson's Swiftwater jacket is perfect for everyday activity. It's casual enough to wear on a trip to the store, but still durable and water-resistant enough for the roughest trails that lay ahead.
Features a front storm flap with a snap closure to protect zipper area
At nearly 1.75 pounds, it's easily the heaviest jacket on our list
Key Specs
Material: Nylon
Weight: 27.65 ounces
First founded as a climbing equipment retailer in 1968, since the 1990s, The North Face has straddled the line between outdoor gear and streetwear better than anyone else ... and this updated version of their classic jacket is no exception.
It's a pricey pick, but it earns its praise thanks to its adjustable hood, which can be rolled and stored with a hook-and-loop tab. We also love the Futurelight abrasion-resistant, waterproof outer shell, comfortable, breathable mesh, and taffeta drop lining. Best of all, it can be folded and stored into the internal chest pocket.
Cannot be packed into any pockets, though can be rolled into the hood
Key Specs
Material: Polyester
Weight: 12.5 ounces
If you have any prior experience with outerwear, you've likely heard about Gore-Tex jackets, the water-repellant fabric that's been a godsend for hikers for the more than 50 years since its invention.
Made of stretched polytetrafluoroethylene (more commonly known as Teflon), Gore-Tex changed the outerwear game by creating a breathable, all-weather jacket that repelled external liquids while allowing sweat vapors to escape, therefore keeping the wearer fully dry.
While Gore-Tex jackets can often be pricey, REI has incorporated Gore-Tex into their own Co-op brand jacket to create an affordable option for the average customer.
Featuring a two-point adjustable hood and Gore-Tex protected chest-pocket big enough to store your phone or wallet, this is a relatively inexpensive option for an all-weather, water repellent jacket that's still light enough to easily pack.
Moisture can at times seep through in areas where jacket presses against the body
Key Specs
Material: Nylon
Weight: 3.7 ounces
As a lightweight shell, this Patagonia jacket offers nothing in the way of insulation like some other entries on this list. But for runners seeking a compact form of rain protection they can easily carry — either by its carabiner or even tucked in their back pocket — this compact jacket is the way to go.
Featuring a durable water repellent coating, this featherweight windbreaker is built to withstand abrasion and protect against the harsh weather that runners typically encounter. It packs neatly into its own chest pocket.
Andrew BettlachAndrew has been contributing to the outdoors and fitness content on BestProducts.com since 2017; he's a nature lover, peak-bagger, skier, and general good-time haver who lives in Colorado, knows where all the fresh snow is, and what gear you should be wearing for staying warm or looking fresh.
Michael NataleCommerce EditorMichael Natale is the commerce editor for Best Products, covering a wide range of topics like gift guides, kitchen appliances, lifestyle products, and more.
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