A travel wrap is a great versatile travel garment that can often be used as a shawl, a scarf, and a travel blanket. Travel wraps are also often lightweight and compact enough to fold up and store in a purse or backpack.
A travel wrap can keep you warm on a chilly airplane or be used as travel blanket on a long bus ride. It can cover your shoulders when entering churches, dress up a plain outfit for an evening out, and add an extra layer of warmth as you watch the sunset from a beach.
We’ll share what to look for when buying a travel wrap from recommended best fabrics to considering the versatility and practicality of the item. Then we review a number of different travel wraps that are sure to fit any budget or style.
Contents:
9 Things to Consider When Buying a Travel Wrap
I purchased my first travel wrap several years ago now, and the one pictured in most of the photos is from Secret Sweater, a former California based company. Sadly this product is no longer available but there are lots of similar products out there!
I found the Secret Sweater travel shawl to be a great thing to have at the airport waiting in lines and sitting around. It was great in the airplane as I am often cold and not all flights provide blankets.
Laurence loves to shoot photos at sunset which generally means I sit outside with him during some chilly evenings and the travel shawl has been fabulous for these situations. For example some of the photos in this post were taken at Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz, California.
But it was also great for indoor locations like cold offices and air-conditioned museums. It is also great when going into religious sites in the summer and needing to be sure to have shoulders and arms covered.
Another one of the nice things about this shawl is how stylish it looks compared to just throwing on a sweatshirt or old cardigan. So I’d definitely recommend one as a travel accessory for women!
Travel wraps can be a wonderful travel accessory but they are not all the same. So here are 9 things to consider before purchasing a travel wrap or travel shawl.
Versatility
The best thing about travel wraps is their versatility. They can be worn in a number of ways and can often top a number of different outfits from casual to more dressy.
Consider how you would be able to wear the travel wrap. Many travel wraps you can wear as a scarf, shrug, or shawl. Some you can also use as a travel blanket to keep you warm on plane and bus rides. Or as a sarong, headscarf, or sari
Perhaps you want to be able to pin it around your shoulders to wear like a poncho. If you like to wear scarfs and wraps poncho style, then you might want to wear it with shawl pins or shawl buckle clasp.
Think about what you want to use a travel wrap for most and if each product can be used in that manner. Items that come with sleeves, pockets, or armholes are generally going to have less versatility.
Note that a travel shawl may replace a sweater or cardigan but it is not intended to take the place of an actual coat, and they often won’t fit well under or on top of a coat or jacket unless you can wear it as a scarf. Travel wraps are also not great if you plan to be very active as they tend to slip off unless you get one with armholes or sleeves.
Size / Dimensions of the Travel Wrap
In relation to versatility above, be sure to consider the size and dimensions of the travel wrap. For example, if you want to be able to use it as a travel blanket, you’ll probably want something at least 60 inches (5 feet) in length or longer and fairly wide.
But on the other hand, if you want to be able to use it as a scarf, something that is 90 inches long and 40 inches across may be too bulky to easily wear around your neck.
Note that for precious fabrics like cashmere, the prices will generally rise along with the dimensions of the garment.
Design of the Travel Wrap
Most travel wraps are essentially wide scarfs with no structure or armholes. But many are cut or tapered to fit a certain way which may affect its fit and versatility.
Some also have armholes or sleeves and a few have pockets. Some also have decorative elements such as tassels, embroidery, and sequins.
Travel Wrap Fabric
The material of the travel wrap is important to take into account. As the fabric will often determine the price, durability, and washability of the garment. It is also important to note that some fabrics wrinkle more easily than others and some wick away or resist moisture better than others.
Here are six common fabrics that may be used to make travel wraps:
- Acrylic – This is a material made of synthetic fibers. It is generally soft, warm, wrinkle-resistant, and durable. It is often made to feel like wool. It is inexpensive and may be mixed with natural materials. Materials made from acrylic fibers can often be machine washed.
- Cotton – A natural fiber that is the most widely used natural fiber in the manufacturing of clothing in the world. It is durable, inexpensive, and soft, although it tends to lose its softness over time and thinner cotton fabrics can wrinkle rather easily. Because of its tendency to wrinkle and that it absorbs and holds moisture, it is not an ideal fabric for a travel wrap unless it is blended with another material or fairly thick. Usually machine washable.
- Rayon – Rayon is made of a semi-synthetic manufactured fiber produced from regenerated cellulose fiber (generally wood pulp). It often mimics the feel and texture of fabrics like wool or silk. It wicks away moisture better than cotton but may wrinkle easily (depends on type of rayon). Rayon travel wraps are normally priced at the mid-point. Rayon is produced in different ways and sold under different names such as viscose and MicroModal. Usually machine washable.
- Wool – Wool is a natural fiber made from the wool of sheep (and sometimes other animals). It is warm, durable, and wicks moisture well. It can wrinkle but is more wrinkle-resistant (especially if a thicker wool) than cotton, silk, rayon, and linen. Pricing is generally at the mid-point but depends on the type of wool as finer wools will fall at premium price points. Some people may find coarser wool products itchy or irritating. Types of wool are sometimes labeled by the type of wool used such as merino, cashmere, or pashmina. Usually hand wash only.
- Cashmere – Cashmere is a fine and delicate type of wool. This is generally the most expensive type of material used to produce travel wraps. One of the most expensive types of cashmere is pashmina. Needs to be handled more delicately than most other fabrics as can tear easily. Hand wash only.
- Silk – Silk is a natural protein fiber and is well-known as a soft and luxurious fabric. Can hold bright colors and feels smooth on the skin. However, it can stain easily and can stretch and shrink when wet. Not the most practical fabric for a travel wrap; however, you may see travel wraps with silk blends such as a blend of wool and silk. Usually dry clean only.
We would recommend looking for travel wraps made of acrylic, rayon, or wool as they tend to be more practical fabrics for travel wraps than others. Cotton can also work if it is blended or a thicker knit, but not recommended for wet or tropical destinations.
Note that pashmina is a fine type of cashmere wool (rare and expensive), but the vast majority of products labeled as pashmina are not made of pashmina. The term is loosely used to describe any scarf or wrap.
Price
Travel wraps fall in a number of price points, from budget to premium. Travel wraps can range from about USD $15 to over USD $500, with most falling in the $40 to $200 range. More expensive products are generally made of more premium materials like cashmere.
Washability
Be sure to read the cleaning care label on a travel wrap. Some materials like wool and cashmere are more delicate and usually needs to be hand washed to prevent damage. Some items may be dry clean only.
If you plan to do laundry while traveling, you can easily hand wash items in the sink or tub as you go.
If you plan to only machine wash your clothes, you may want to look at acrylic, rayon, and cotton options which are more likely to be machine washable. However, even with these fabrics, companies may recommend hand washing over machine washing to lengthen the life of the wrap.
Country of Origin
Travel wraps are made in countries around the world with many being produced in China since it is cheap to manufacture textiles there. If you are concerned about quality control, sustainability, or carbon footprint, you may want to pay attention to the country of origin and from where it is being shipped.
Be cautious about any products that do not list their country of origin on the tag. Many countries, such as the United States, require country of origin tags on clothing.
Also be wary of cheap products that are listed as coming from a country with a high cost of labor. For example, we spotted a travel wrap with a glued on label stating it was made from 100% Scottish cashmere on Amazon that looked like it was neither cashmere nor made in Scotland. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
Reliability of Reviews
We all like to read reviews before we buy an item. I find this very helpful to see what other people have thought, the pros/cons, and which body types it might fit best. Reviews can be very useful and most of them use them to guide our buying decisions.
However, fake reviews are an issue on many sites from Tripadvisor to Amazon. Note that if you are buying a product on Amazon (or similar site) and are concerned about the authenticity of the reviews, we recommend running the link through FakeSpot. It isn’t 100% reliable but it helps show patterns of deception.
Also note, if you want my opinion or advice, just leave us a Comment at the end of this article. I personally own half of the recommended travel wraps, so happy to share more of my own thoughts if you need help deciding!
Practicality
Practicality is perhaps the most important thing to think about when making a purchase of a travel wrap, or any other garment. This takes into account most of the other things we’ve already discussed.
Some questions to consider:
Will you actually wear it? Will you carry it around on your travels? How much space does it take up in your luggage? How versatile is it? Does it go well with the travel clothing you already own? Do you mind if it gets wrinkly? How will you wash it?
12 Travel Wraps & Shawls for Women
Below is our list of 12 different travel wraps of various styles and at different price points. All can be purchased online.
These 12 travel wraps are listed in order of price, from lowest to highest.
1. Reemonde Scarf Wrap
This is a soft and pretty versatile wrap at a budget price. It is very versatile and can be used as a scarf or shawl.
The wrap measures 76 inches X 27 inches (193 cm X 68 cm), and has tassels along the edges. It comes in about 20 colors.
It is made in China of a blend of acrylic, wool, and cashmere. Given the price, expect it to be mostly acrylic. Hand wash only.
Price: Check latest price here
2. York Scarves Wraps
York Scarves offers several generous sized scarfs and wraps (labeled as pashminas) that can be worn as a shawl, cape, scarf, or poncho.
The wraps (depending on material and style) measure either 78.5 inches X 27.5 inches (200 cm X 70 cm) or 70.5 inches X 27.5 inches (180 cm X 70 cm). All designs have either short fringe or tassels along the edges. Lots of colors available.
There are a variety of materials used and they offer a selection of travel wraps made of 100% organic cotton (see those here), 100% viscose (see those here), or 100% lambswool (see those here). Price points vary according to the material.
The wraps are handwoven in India and then imported and sold by a British fair trade seller in England. Hand wash only.
Price: Check latest prices here
3. Melifluos Wrap
These stylish and elegant Melifluos wraps are a perfect accessory cover your shoulders for a little extra warmth or to dress up an evening outfit. Designed in Spain, these wraps can be used as a shawl or blanket.
This wrap comes in a variety of designs, and most of the designs are reversible so can be worn two ways.
The wraps are designed in Spain and made in China. They are 48 inches X 48 inches (121 cm X 121 cm) and are made of 100% bamboo viscose (rayon). Hand wash or delicate machine wash.
Price: Check latest price here
4. Dana Xu Wool Wrap
Dana Xu’s wool wraps are known for their rich vibrant colors and patterns, and are great for travelers wanting to make a statement. These colorful wraps can be used as scarf, shawl, or blanket.
Made in China using 100% fine wool from Australia and New Zealand. The wool wraps are a generous 96 inches X 43 inches (243 cm X 109 cm). Hand wash only.
Price: Check latest price here
5. HappyLuxe Wayfarer Wrap
The HappyLuxe Wayfarer Travel Wrap is lightweight and versatile. It can be used as a travel scarf, wrap, blanket, or shawl.
The wrap is 68 inches X 35 inches (172 cm X 89 cm) It is made in the United States of America of 95% MicroModal (rayon) and 5% Spandex.
A unique feature of this wrap is that it has a discreet built-in pocket to store a standard size hand warmer (included) to help keep you warm on chilly days. Very handy for cold airplanes and chilly evenings outside.
They also offer a 3-item travel set bundle, called the Paris Luxury Travel Set, that includes the travel wrap, an eye mask, and a travel pillow. You can see that travel set here.
It is machine washable, but wash on the delicate cycle or hand wash. Available in several colors.
Price: Check the latest price here (Happyluxe website) and here (on Amazon)
6. Caroline Grace Tassel Poncho
If you are thinking about a poncho instead of a wrap, this Caroline Grace poncho may be for you. Soft and comfortable with decorative tassels at the hem, this can be a great fun and versatile travel piece.
The poncho is made of 95% cotton and 5% Mongolian cashmere. It is 2 ply. It measures 20 inches (51 cm) in length in front and 25 inches (63.5 cm) in length in back. Available in wide array of colors. Hand wash recommended.
Price: Check latest price here
7. Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Shawls
Barefoot Dreams specializes in creating soft and comfy clothing and has several wraps, ponchos, and shawls that are perfect for travel. There are several designs to choose from with some of the shawls coming with sleeves and/or pockets.
The various travel shawls and wraps vary a bit in size and dimensions, but expect something around the size of the CozyChic Lite Travel Shawl which is 72 inches X 28 inches (182 cm X 71 cm).
The majority of the travel shawls are made of 80% nylon and 20% rayon from bamboo. Machine washable on the delicate cycle.
Price: Check latest price here
8. Dalle Piane Cashmere Wrap
If you are looking for a more luxurious wrap, consider something in cashmere. This pure cashmere wrap from Italy is soft and versatile. This great travel wrap can be used as a shawl, lightweight blanket, or oversized scarf.
The wrap measures 80 inches by 23 inches (205 cm X 60 cm) and is made of 100% cashmere. Comes in an array of colors. Made in Italy.
As with any cashmere product, it can tear easily so handle with care. It will need to be hand washed or dry cleaned.
Price: Check latest price here
9. Ovcio Cashmere Wrap
Another great cashmere option is this travel wrap by Ovcio, which can be used as a travel wrap, shawl, blanket, or oversized scarf.
Comes in a large number of colors. Most are solid colors with fringes, but they also offer a few multi-colored ones as well.
The wrap measures 79 inches x 28 inches (200 cm x 70 cm), and is made of 100% Mongolian cashmere. Made in China. Hand wash or dry clean.
Ovcio currently offer free worldwide shipping to customers on all orders. Gift box included.
We currently can offer a special 11% off discount code (TRAVELCATS11SPECIAL) from Ovcio. The discount code can be applied to any of the available cashmere travel wraps, women’s scarves, or men’s scarves if purchased from their website here. Just type in the code at checkout.
Price: Check latest price here
10. The TravelWrap Company Classic Cashmere Wrap
The TravelWrap Company’s Classic cashmere wrap is indeed a popular classic. The Scotland-made wrap is versatile and can be used as a thick scarf, shawl, poncho, or travel blanket.
The wraps are 71 inches X 35.5 inches (180cm X 90cm). This UK company’s cashmere wraps are made in bonnie Scotland.
It is made of 100% cashmere and is a 2-ply wrap knitted on an 8 needle machine. Comes in a wide array of beautiful colors. Hand wash or dry clean only.
Wrap comes with a beautiful box (great for gifting) and a satin storage pouch (great for traveling). We love these wraps and they make for wonderful gifts.
Price: Check latest price here
11. White + Warren Cashmere Wrap
This luxurious cashmere wrap by White + Warren is large, soft, and versatile. It can be used as a travel scarf, wrap, blanket, or shawl.
This is the signature product from NYC-based White + Warren. It measures at 81 in. X 36 in (205 cm X 91 cm). Comes in a wide array of colors from basic neutrals to bright purple.
It is made of 100% cashmere in 7 gauge knit and is 2 ply. Made in China. Delicate fabric; hand wash in cold water or dry clean.
Price: Check latest price here
12. The TravelWrap Company Cathedral Wrap
If you are looking for something bigger, thicker, and more luxurious, we recommend checking out the Cathedral style wrap by The TravelWrap Company. This elegant 3-ply cashmere wrap drapes wonderfully over the shoulders and has a textured ribbed design.
The wrap is 84.5 inches X 36 inches (215 cm X 92 cm). This UK company’s cashmere wraps are made in Scotland.
These wraps are thicker and heavier than others on our list, which makes them warmer and more luxurious, but also means they weigh more and will take up more room in luggage. So something to consider if you need to pack light.
It is made of 100% Mongolian cashmere and is a 3-ply wrap knitted on an 8 needle machine. Currently available in 3 colors. Hand wash or dry clean only.
Wrap comes with a beautiful gift box and a satin storage pouch.
Price: Check latest price here
**You can also see many of the travel wraps and shawls we recommend above in a single page on Amazon here with current prices for a handy reference.**
So that is our list of travel wraps and travel shawls! Which is your favorite?
Planning to purchase a travel wrap or shawl in the near future, but not now? Pin this article to Pinterest to read later:
What do you think about travel wraps and travel shawls? Do you own one? Is it a travel accessory on your wish list?
Melissa A. Post author
Hi Jessica,
Great list and very helpful in helping guide one to the right travel wrap. I have been trying to decide between Happyluxe and Melifluous wrap…any thoughts? The Happyluxe one looks more lightweight and easier to stash in a backpack, is that right?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Melissa,
Yes, if you are looking for something more lightweight and easier to squeeze into your backpack or luggage, then the Happyluxe is lighter and takes up less room to store. The Melifluous wrap is thicker and heavier. They differ in size dimensions as well, so that is something to note as well if that makes a difference to you. The Happyluxe is longer but the Melifluous is wider (more square).
Hope that helps!
Jessica
Tammy Lee Post author
Hello there – trying to choose a cashmere travel wrap. Would use for travel, but also want something I can wear as a shawl to special events at home plus maybe take into the office. Budget is a maximum of $250. Your recommendations are really helpful, sort of stuck between Ovcio one, TravelWrap Classic one, and White + Warren. Any thoughts between those 3 wraps?
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Tammy,
The TravelWrap is just a bit above your budget (about $266 currently), but the White + Warren is about $50 above your budget, so I’d exclude that one. If your main concern is budget, the Ovcio one is the least expensive of the three (currently at $179 for most of their wraps).
Here are my general thoughts about the TravelWrap and Ovcio cashmere travel wraps:
The two cashmere wraps are similar in size. The Ovcio wraps is longer but the TravelWrap Classic is wider.
Both wraps use wool sourced from Mongolia. The Ovcio wraps are produced in China whereas the TravelWrap ones are produced in Scotland. The Ovcio wraps are woven whereas the TravelWrap ones are knitted.
Both are soft and feel pretty light. I would say the TravelWrap Classic wrap feels a bit softer. The TravelWrap is more delicate than the Ovcio but the Ovcio is more likely to wrinkle.
The Ovcio ones has fringed edges whereas the TravelWrap one has no fringe (there is a ribbed texture around the edges).
Both come with gift/storage boxes and storage pouch. The one from the TravelWrap Co is better quality than the one from Ovcio.
Overall, I would say that the TravelWrap one is of better quality, but given the price difference, you will need to decide if the price difference is worth it to you. I’d look at the upclose photos of the fabrics to better to see the difference between the two fabrics (knit versus weave).
Hope that helps, and hope you enjoy whichever cashmere wrap you choose!
Best,
Jessica
Fiona Gibson Post author
Hi Jessica,
What a fantastic list of travel wraps. I visited here a couple months ago and purchased a Happyluxe wrap (love that they are made in USA) and an Ovcio cashmere wrap. I use the Happyluxe for daily travel use – great for planes, buses, etc. – and the Ovcio one I use for going out for dinner and nicer occasions. Both have been great and very happy with purchases.
I found you again as I am planning to purchase a second Ovcio wrap in a different color to use for a special event this winter where I will be making a speech.
Thanks again!
Fiona
Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author
Hi Fiona,
That is wonderful to hear and glad you are enjoying your new Happyluxe and Ovcio travel wraps! Thanks for taking the time to let us know.
Happy travels,
Jessica
Laurie Nykaza Post author
I’m always on long flights and do get cold so a travel wrap would be perfect to use on the plane or when I’m on the train too.
Amanda Morris Post author
I love this its so cute and i would where it all the time and everywhere cause I am always cold
Crystal mexico Post author
I would wear this outdoors since I Like to sit in the garage a lot, sitting at the laptop and doing my crafts. Sometimes it gets pretty chilly out there! lol
Marija Post author
Never heard of a travel wrap but it looks like a super versatile product! Love the wool one, I would bring it on road trips and camping excursions.
Annamarie V Post author
This is a great idea, I would use this on the airplane it would be much better than using the airlines blanket.
laurie murley Post author
I’m always cold anymore and this would be great to have and use when and where I need it
Heather Kelly Post author
I would take it with me everywhere. Shawls always come in handy!
Christine Dodd Post author
I travel by plane about six or seven times a year so a travel shawl would come in handy. I can also see it working for long car journeys.
Ginger White Brady Post author
I take beta blockers and freeze all the time. This would be great on airplane, in the car well anywhere for me. I love the gray color and that it is so compact to fit in my purse. Awesome product.
Natalie Brown Post author
I would certainly wear this on the bus, in the car on long drives, and when I go to see movies (why is it always so cold in there?). lol 🙂
Nancy Post author
A travel wrap would be great for long plane flights and also in the theater.
Leela Post author
It looks warm and cozy. I’d use it anywhere.
allyson tice Post author
i would wear this on my bus trips to the city!
Rachel Post author
I would love to have this when I travel abroad for medical missions trips. It can get so cold on a plane and this would be perfect.
debbie Post author
This would be great so many places. I’d love to be able to have it for restaurants. Why are they always so cold?
Wendy Wallach Post author
i love it because I wear shawls all the time and this one is so lightweight and compact. I would take it with me every time I travel
va Post author
i would like it since it is cold here and i can travel with it anywhere .
deanna Post author
I travel a lot for work. I would like to take this with me because it looks like it is easy to pack instead of lots of cardigans. It might even work for late nights at the dog park!
Bobbie Smith Post author
I would love to win this because no matter where I go, I always seem to have a chill. I would where this where ever I would go, including inside the house. It looks so warm, but also fashionable!
Marnie G (Derrick Todd) Post author
This is great! I want to get one of these for my daughter, she has just started traveling internationally for work.
Holly E Post author
I would love to have it because I am always cold and tend to freeze on trips. I would definitely wear it.
wen budro Post author
I would wear this when flying and on road trips when it’s a little chilly.
Rennie D Post author
I like the Secret Sweater Shawl because its chic and serves a purpose. I really like the fabric it’s made from. I would love to wear this while travelling on a long car ride or in the airport.
christina moore Post author
I would wear this on a airplane, it is always cold,
Vicki Post author
I like just having a sweater with me no matter the season or time of year. You never know if the place you are visiting is going to be warm enough for your liking! 🙂
TallulahJane Post author
I stay cold all the time so I try to keep a jacket in the car. I love the way this folds up. I would wear in restaurants, theaters, etc.
Gina H Post author
Wow, what a perfect idea! I would take this everywhere with me. In Michigan, we have nice days, but it can get chilly at night. I spend a lot of time outdoors (like camping) and this would be a perfect thing to pack!
Brandi Post author
I would love this because I’m always cold. It would be perfect for both travelling and for sitting by the campfire this summer
Wehaf Post author
I’d love this because I always get cold when traveling; I’d use it whenever I flew.
Bailey Dexter Post author
What a great product! I would love to carry the sweater in my purse/bag always, what a perfect way to stay warm all the time!!!
Kassie Post author
I am ill and I have to travel quite a lot for doctors appointments so I would keep this with me. I’m one of those always cold people so things to help me stay warm are really important. I love these! So cool!
Lisa Post author
I’d love these because I one of those people who are always cold and I love shawls!
Leonard Post author
Getting it for my girlfriend as both of us really love travelling but hate the hassle of bringing so many layers.
Meg Schneider Post author
I am always getting cold on planes! I will be flying much more often to see my niece and the newest member of my brother’s family in Sept!! Meg
Dragica Post author
This is amazing! I catch a cold almost always in airplane, it is so cold on every flight. Rarely I get the blanket, of course. 😀
Ashley Bree Perez Post author
I would love this! I plan on doing some traveling this year and this would come in handy. 🙂
Angela Saver Post author
I would like to win this as I am cold-natured & always seem to be cold when no one else is! I would take this with me shopping & when I travel in the car or by plane!
Seana Turner Post author
I am always cold on airplanes, and the blankets they have (If you are lucky enough to get one) never seem to be quite enough. I often end up trying to drape my coat over my legs. I think this is a great idea.. and maybe handy for a movie theater as well. Sometimes in the summer, the AC is turned up so high that I’m actually cold on a hot day!