If you’re planning on visiting the European continent during the colder months, it’s likely that you’re on the hunt for the best travel jacket for Europe.
While travelling in Europe in winter can have its benefits — tourist crowds can be far fewer, accommodation and entry fees can be cheaper — because of the weather, it can be hard to pack light or appropriately to ensure that you stay warm and toasty while traipsing through the cobbled streets of a charming European town.
So if you don’t want to sacrifice your warmth, comfort and style while visiting Europe in winter (or any of the cooler months) and also don’t want to weigh down your bags or take up valuable space in your luggage, you’ve come to the right place. Through extensive research and European winter travel of our own, we know exactly what to look for and what makes for the best jacket for winter in Europe.
Whether you’re travelling to Norway in February or wandering through Italy in December, you’re going to need a good jacket or coat for travel in Europe. Keeping in mind weather patterns along with weight and packability, we’ve compiled a fantastic list to help you find the best jacket for travel in Europe.
Travel Jacket for Europe Comparison
Choosing a Travel Jacket for Europe
Depending on the season you’re visiting Europe or the regions you’re travelling in, you’re going to have different needs for jackets or coats. As I’m sure you’re already aware, Europe isn’t one homogenous country with the same climate and there are going to be varying things that you need to look out for depending on when and where you are visiting.
However, there are a few key aspects that are going to be vital in any coat or travel jacket for Europe that you need to look out for. First and foremost is warmth. You want a jacket or coat that’s going to be as warm as possible to ensure that you keep nice and toasty in chilly weather.
You’re also going to want to check for durability and how lightweight and packable the jacket is. If you’re visiting a warmer climate or travelling in spring or autumn rather than in the depths of winter, this is going to be easier to account for as you won’t need a bulky jacket. However, it still is always a good idea to look for something that can pack down small and not add extra weight.
If you’re visiting a very cold climate in winter, you’re likely going to want to find a more heavy-duty coat rather than a light jacket. While it’s always a good idea to dress in layers, it’s still going to make or break your holiday if you’re too cold to go outside and do anything because your coat is too light.
Make sure to double-check the weather averages of the places you’re travelling to see what weight of coat or jacket you may need. Quite obviously, you’re going to need quite different things for winter in Southern Spain than you would need in Finnish Lapland, for instance.
With the above considerations in mind, it’s time to help you find the best jackets for travel in Europe!
The Best Travel Jackets for Europe
If you’re travelling to Europe in the summer or autumn or only plan to visit southern European regions like southern Italy, Spain, Greece, Malta or Cyprus, then all you may need is a jacket. These jackets will keep you warm through chilly days and nights and can also be used effectively as a base layer in colder climates.
North Face Thermoball Eco (click here for Men’s)
If you’re looking for a fantastic jacket that is lightweight, compactable and incredibly warm, then you may find that the North Face Thermoball Eco (also available on REI here for women and here for men’s version) is the perfect choice for you. Incredibly lightweight and packable down to the size of a pocket, this may well be the absolute best jacket for Europe travel.
The North Face Thermoball Eco is also a great option if you’re looking for an environmentally-friendly option, as well. The insulation (a great alternative to lightweight goose down) is actually made from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester! The jacket is also fully water-resistant, meaning it’s great if you get caught out in the rain and can seamlessly transition from the city to the hiking trail.
This jacket probably isn’t the best option if you’re visiting a very cold climate, however, it is great for southern European winters and Central and Northern European springs and autumns.
Because it is so lightweight and packable, it is also just one of the best jackets to bring with you for travel as it is unlikely to take up too much valuable luggage space and isn’t the reason you’ll go over the airline’s weight requirement.
Available in a number of different styles and colours and for both men and women, the North Face Thermoball Eco is an easy contender for the best jacket for European travel.
Wantdo Ultra-Light Down Jacket (click here for Men’s)
If you’re on the hunt for a basic, ultra-light down jacket for Europe that’s perfect for spring or autumn travel (or as a base layer in the winter), then the Wantdo Ultra-Light Down Jacket is a solid choice for you. This jacket is warm and lightweight and comes in both men’s and women’s versions, meaning that it’s perfect for everyone.
The Wantdo Ultra-Light Down Jacket comes in a number of different styles and colours for both men and women, including hooded, with a removable hood, or without a hood completely. It is also wind-resistant, incredibly lightweight, packable down to just a few centimetres in diameter and takes up next to no room in a suitcase or backpack.
Though the Wantdo Ultra-Light Down Jacket isn’t completely water-resistant and it isn’t going to keep you dry for long if you’re stuck in a torrential rainstorm, it is water-repellant meaning that it can protect you from splashed and a bit of mild rain and snow if you find yourself caught out without an umbrella.
Tommy Hilfiger Ultra Loft Puffer Jacket
If you’re looking for a stylish, lightweight and super warm jacket for your winter trip to Europe, then you can’t go wrong with the Tommy Hilfiger Ultra Loft Puffer Jacket. This men’s lightweight jacket is an ideal option for guys who want to have a sleek and stylish look without sacrificing warmth or practicality.
Filled with a super light down filling that keeps you warm while weighing next to nothing, this super stylish jacket also comes in a number of different colours and sizes to suit all kinds of body types and styles.
What makes the Tommy Hilfiger Ultra Loft Puffer Jacket so fantastic for travelling to Europe, however, is the fact that it is packable down to the size of a very small stuff sack, meaning that it won’t take up valuable luggage space. You can also easily stash it in a day pack for days where you may need a jacket, but don’t need to wear it for an extended period of time.
The Tommy Hilfiger Ultra Loft Puffer Jacket also comes in both a waterproof version (perfect if you’re heading to a rainier climate) and a hooded version (great if you’re not a hat guy). All in all, if you’re looking for the ideal men’s travel jacket for Europe, then this is the perfect option.
North Face Resolve (click here for Men’s)
If you’re on the hunt for an ideal rain jacket for travelling to Europe, especially if you’re visiting in the wet and dreary spring months, then you really can’t go wrong with North Face Resolve (also available on REI here for women).
You may find a theme here that I keep recommending North Face jackets, but that is only because they are well-made, durable and perfect for travel. The Resolve is no different.
Though this jacket isn’t going to do much in order to keep you warm in the cold — it very well will keep you dry.
Lightweight and easily packable, the North Face Resolve is completely water and wind-resistant, meaning that it is the perfect outer layer if you’re out on the trail hiking in a rainstorm or stranded out in the city without an umbrella. The jacket comes in a number of different colours and is available in both men’s and women’s styles, meaning that you will find something for everyone.
While this isn’t the ideal winter jacket for Europe on its own, if you pair it with one of the lightweight down jackets mentioned above with a fleece or sweater underneath (along with some other, lighter layers), you may find that you don’t need to bring a bulky coat with you even if you’re travelling to the continent in the depths of winter.
All in all, if you need a great rain jacket for your Europe trip, then make sure to get yourself a North Face Resolve.
North Face TKA Glacier (click here for Men’s)
If you’re looking for a cosy fleece jacket to bring to Europe, either as a base layer or as an option for spring or autumn, then please consider the North Face TKA Glacier (also available on REI here for women).
This fleece jacket is one of the best on the market as it is small, incredibly lightweight and surprisingly toasty and warm, meaning that it makes the absolute perfect base layer for colder days but it is also soft and comfortable enough to wear on the plane while flying to Europe.
The North Face TKA Glacier comes in both men’s and women’s versions and a myriad of different colours so that you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to picking out the perfect one for you.
It also has a number of different styles to choose from, from a 1/4 zip, a classic pullover and a proper fully zipped jacket with pockets. Regardless of which one you choose, you’re sure not to be disappointed!
Made from an ultra-soft microfibre material, this fleece is so incredibly warm and comfortable that you won’t want to leave home without it! So if you’re looking for a wonderful jacket for European travel, then please consider the North Face TKA Glacier.
The Best Coat for Travel in Europe
If you’re visiting Northern or Central Europe in winter, then you’re likely going to want to find the best travel coat for Europe rather than simply a jacket.
Unless you want to be adding and removing layers all day as you flit in and out of doors, having a heavy puter layer can be preferable while travelling. If you’re looking for the ideal coat for Europe travel, then have a look through these great options:
Columbia Mighty Lite
If you’re looking for a very warm, lightweight and flattering winter coat for women, then you really should consider the Columbia Mighty Lite (also available direct from Columbia). This coat is a great option if you don’t need a super heavy coat (ie, you’re not visiting the Nordics or Baltics in winter) but still need to be warmer than you would be in just a jacket.
This coat only comes in a women’s version, however, it is cut to be feminine and flattering, rather than boxy. It comes in a number of colours and it is lightweight but still incredibly warm and well-insulated, meaning that it’s perfect for bringing with you on a trip to Europe.
The Columbia Mighty Lite has a longer coverage that hits a few inches above the knee and is insulated with an Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining — meaning that the jacket keeps you very warm while staying so lightweight. It also comes with a hood, adding an extra layer of warmth on chilly days. There are numerous pockets, as well, including an interior security pocket which is perfect for Europe travel.
All in all, if you’re looking for the best coat for winter travel in Europe, consider the Columbia Mighty Lite.
North Face Gotham (click here for Men’s)
If you’re looking for the perfect winter coat for Europe travel that has both men’s and women’s versions, then you absolutely cannot overlook the North Face Gotham.
This coat has a number of different iterations and it is perfect for those looking for something that is stylish looking but will keep you super toasty warm even in the coldest of European climates. No freezing to death while traipsing through that Bavarian Christmas market in this winter coat!
The North Face Gotham comes in a few different kinds of styles and colours that are on the market for both men and women. It is fully water-resistant meaning that you will stay warm and dry in a snowstorm and it features DryVent fabric to ensure that it is also breathable. It is insulated with goose down, keeping you very warm, and even has a fully adjustable hood if you need it.
All in all, if you’re looking for a really warm and toasty winter coat for Europe that is perfect for exploring the colder climates of Europe, then you really can’t go wrong with the North Face Gotham.
Columbia Chatfield Hill
If you’re looking for a lightweight and breathable women’s winter coat for Europe that doesn’t sacrifice style, then look no further than the Columbia Chatfield Hill (also direct from Columbia). This coat is perfect for both city and nature travel as it’s both cute and practical and great for travel.
The Columbia Chatfield Hill is made from 100% polyester, making it a great option for those who are uncomfortable wearing down jackets but don’t want to sacrifice warmth. It comes in a variety of colours to choose from and has a flattering, modern classic fit that can be dressed up or down depending on the situation.
It is lined with ultra-warm and cosy sherpa fleece that will keep you toasty while not weighing you or your luggage down and has a longer style to cover more of your body than a traditional jacket.
All in all, if you’re looking for another great women’s option for the best coat for Europe travel in winter, then please don’t hesitate to choose the Columbia Chatfield Hill.
Finding the best jackets for travel in Europe doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Just think about what you would be most comfortable wearing at home that suits the climate you’re visiting. The above jackets and coats are all great examples of that.
Are you looking for the best jacket for Europe travel? Have any other recommendations? Let us know in the comments!
