The Best Yoga Pants for Travel

We love Zella's Live-in High-waist Leggings.

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Comfy Yoga Pants
Courtesy of Nordstrom

Yoga pants are essential in any travel wardrobe. They're comfortable, stretchy, and they look good on everyone. They're also exceptionally versatile — you can wear them with a tee or a sweatshirt on travel days, dress them up with a cute sweater and flats on sightseeing trips, or throw on a pair of sneakers and wear them to the gym.

If you're here to find out which yoga pants are the absolute best, we'd recommend Zella's Live-in High-waist Leggings. They're stylish, and you can do just about anything in them. But if you prefer yoga pants that are flared, cropped, or available in dozens of colors, keep reading to find the best yoga pants for your travels.

Best Overall

Zella Live In High Waist Leggings

Zella Live In High Waist Leggings

Nordstrom

Why We Love It: Their specially designed glute seam gives the illusion of perfect curves in all the right places.

What to Consider: They run a bit small, so consider sizing up.

Besides boasting a non-slip waistband with hidden pockets, these comfy, high-waisted yoga pants have soft and stretchy bottoms and have moisture-wicking capabilities to keep you cool and dry. The polyester-spandex fabric blend even dries quickly to ensure you're comfortable throughout your workout. But comfort and functionality aren't the only winning features in these leggings: Thanks to figure-sculpting technology including a special curve-enhancing glute seam, you're sure to look as good as you feel every time you pull these on. Whether you wear them for actual yoga, intense workouts, or lounging around, they're likely to become a fast favorite. Pick them up now in six available colors including brown taupe and purple amaranth.

Price at time of publish: $59

Sizes: XXS to XXL | Material: Polyester, spandex

Best Bootcut

Spalding Women's Bootleg Yoga Pant

yoga pants

Spalding

Why We Love It: They're not as tight in the waist as other similar pants.

What to Consider: They have a low- to mid-rise fit, so skip them if you prefer high-rise.

These stylish, slightly flared yoga pants are made from a durable cotton fabric blend that offers light compression for a super flattering fit. They're not quite as compressive as some other styles, which makes them perfect for long travel days and relaxing at home. They also come in three versatile colors and a wide range of sizes to complement every body shape. Wear them with sneakers, flip flops, or boots — however you wear them, they'll look sleek and feel even better.

Price at time of publish: $25

Sizes: S to 3X | Material: Cotton

Best Flared

Zella Barely Flare Live in High Waist Pants

Zella Barely Flare Live in High Waist Pants

Nordstrom

Why We Love It: They "lengthen" the legs.

What to Consider: The waist is particularly high on these, so they're best for shoppers with long torsos.

If you're looking for a more prominent flare, check out this style from Zella. Not only are the cozy pants made from a four-way stretch material so you'll never feel restricted, but they also have a wide compression waistband that has a hidden pocket to store your essentials. Their special construction makes the legs look extra long and slim, while moisture-wicking fabric keeps things comfy no matter what the day brings.

Sizes: 0 to 10 | Material: Polyester, spandex

Related: The Best Yoga Blocks of 2023

Best Yoga Tights

90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Power Flex Tummy Control Leggings

leggings

90 degree By Reflex

Why We Love It: They prevent the dreaded see-through problem very well for a pair of yoga tights.

What to Consider: They aren't the most durable set.

Along with a tummy-control waistband, these leggings made from a moisture-wicking, four-way stretch material will move with you for complete comfort. While they're ultra-supportive, they don't squeeze your body uncomfortably tight, and thanks to their second-skin fit, they feel almost like wearing nothing at all. Because they're squat-proof, chafe-proof, and designed for years of wear, you may find yourself wanting a pair in all 23 colors.

Price at time of publish: $23

Sizes: XS to XL | Material: Nylon, Spandex

Best High-waisted

Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Slim Flare Pants

High-waisted Powersoft Slim Bootcut Compression Pants

Old Navy

Why We Love It: They come in regular, tall, and petite sizes.

What to Consider: They don't compress through the leg as much as other options.

Along with moisture-wicking capabilities, these straight-leg pants are made from a four-way stretch material for a super soft and breathable feel. They also feature flat-lock seams, so you don't have to worry about chafing, and an elasticized waistband for added comfort. The combination of that wide, stretchy waistband and a high-waisted fit offers serious tummy control, all while remaining comfortable. The only thing that could possibly make the pants better is pockets — which, luckily, they have.

Sizes: XS to 4X | Material: Polyester, spandex

Best Low Rise

ToBeInStyle Women's Low Rise Sweatpants

ToBeInStyle Women's Low Rise Sweatpants

Amazon

Why We Love It: The adjustable waistband is designed for customized comfort.

What to Consider: They may be too short for taller shoppers.

It can be hard to find a good pair of low-rise yoga pants in these days of high-waisted-everything, but this super affordable pair might be the right option for you. The pants feature a waistband that folds over, so you can have them sit as high or low on your hips as you like. A subtly flared bottom offers versatility while a buttery soft material provides hours of comfort. Plus, there are nearly 60 styles to choose from.

Price at time of publish: $21

Sizes: S to L | Material: Cotton

Related: The Best Flats That Are Just as Comfortable as Sneakers

Best Cropped

Lululemon Align Super-High-Rise Wide Leg Crop 23"

Lululemon Align Super-High-Rise Wide Leg Crop 23"

Lululemon

Why We Love It: Their unique design makes for an effortless yet figure-flattering look.

What to Consider: The super-high-rise fit might not be ideal for all shoppers.

Not only are these cropped pants incredibly lightweight, soft, and flowy, but they also have a stretchy elastic waistband that won't dig into your skin. The machine-washable yoga pants are made from a four-way stretch material that's both breathable and moisture-wicking. They also boast two pockets and a curve-enhancing glute seam. Even better, they come in eight stylish colors and range in size from 0 to 20.

Price at time of publish: $98

Sizes: 0 to 20 | Material: Nylon, lycra

Best Budget: Oalka Power Flex Yoga Pants

Best Budget

Oalka Power Flex Yoga Pants

yoga pants

Oalka

Why We Love It: They come in dozens of chic prints and colors.

What to Consider: The phone pocket does not fit all models.

These sleek yoga pants from Oalka prove you don't have to spend a ton of money to get a high-quality pair of pants. The cozy bottoms boast interlock seams that won't irritate your skin and a high-waisted fit that includes a wide tummy-control panel and a hidden key pocket in the waistband. Plus, with 40 different colors and prints ranging from black camo to pink tie dye, you're bound to find an option or two that you love.

Price at time of publish: $20

Sizes: XS to XXL | Material: Nylon, spandex, polyester

Best with Pockets

ODODOS Women's High Waisted Yoga Capris with Pockets

yoga pants

ODODOS

Why We Love It: The pockets are so spacious, you don't even have to carry a bag with you.

What to Consider: Some of the lighter colors are not completely squat proof.

If you hate carrying around your stuff as you travel or head to a workout, opt for yoga pants that have roomy pockets, like this pair from Ododos. The high-waisted, cropped bottoms feature a four-way stretch material that contours to your body, crotch gussets for added mobility, and extra-long outer pockets on each side for convenient storage of your phone, keys, credit cards, and more. Choose from dozens of colors and prints including gray leopard, heathered lilac, and blue chevron.

Price at time of publish: $42

Sizes: XS to 3XL | Material: Polyester, spandex, polyamide, elastane

Best for Plus Sizes

Livi Active Yoga Pant with Smoothing Control Tech

LIVI Yoga Pant with Smoothing Control Tech

Lane Bryant

Why We Love It: Their skin-smoothing mesh panels are the key to confidence.

What to Consider: They're only available in one color.

If you're in search of a flattering and comfortable pair of plus size yoga pants, look no further than this sleek, high-waisted option from Lane Bryant. Made with soft and stretchy cotton fabric, the cozy pants feature a smoothing control top panel in the waistband and a stylish flared leg. They're also totally breathable and will never feel too hot or restricting during a workout or while running errands. Basically, they'll keep you looking and feeling your best at all times — and they're surprisingly reasonably priced.

Price at time of publish: $50

Sizes: 10/12 to 38/40 | Material: Cotton

Related: The Best Yoga Mats for Working Out at Home

Best for Petite Women

Yogipace Petite Women's High Waisted Yoga Pants with Pockets

yoga pants

Yogipace

Why We Love It: They're the solution for ladies whose yoga pants are always a tad too long.

What to Consider: The fabric is very thick.

This cute pair of yoga pants by Yogipace is specially designed for petite frames. They range in size from XS to XXL and allow you to choose between two inseam lengths — 23 inches or 25 inches — to ensure you'll find a pair that fits perfectly. Whether you purchase the style with pockets or the style without, the four-way stretch fabric will remain squat-proof and moisture wicking. And if you're a short gal, you'll never have to worry about your leggings being too long or too high waisted again.

Price at time of publish: $43

Sizes: XS to XXL| Material: Nylon, spandex, cotton, polyester, elastane

Best for Tall Women

Athleta Elation Flare Pant

4.8
Athleta Elation Flare Pant

Athleta

Why We Love It: They're the solution for ladies whose yoga pants are always a tad too short.

What to Consider: They are on the pricier side.

If yoga pants always appear cropped on you when they're not meant to be cropped, consider this pair from Athleta. Along with featuring a supportive waistband, a hidden back pocket, and super soft material, the yoga pants come in regular, petite, and tall sizes. The tall version features a 34.5-inch inseam — which is 3 inches longer than a typical inseam length — making them the best style for anyone with a tall frame or longer legs. Not to mention, they're available in gorgeous colors like tawny rose and blue star.

Price at time of publish: $99

Sizes: XXS to 3X | Material: Nylon, lycra

Best Yoga Shorts: Spanx Look at Me Now Bike Shorts

Best Yoga Shorts

Spanx Look at Me Now Bike Short

Look at Me Now Bike Shorts

Spanx

Why We Love It: They're available in sizes for all body types.

What to Consider: The waist may be too high for shoppers with shorter torsos.

If you hate feeling restricted while exercising or strolling around town, consider trading your leggings for a pair of yoga shorts. This soft and slimming pair from Spanx is designed without an obvious waistband — but don't let that scare you off. The seamless style still features a high waist and extremely compressive fabric that cuts off a few inches above the knees. Stretchy and flexible, these shorts are perfect for any type of activity. Grab them in solid black or black camo.

Price at time of publish: $58

Sizes: XS to 3X | Material: Nylon, elastane

Tips for Buying Yoga Pants

Choose the Right Style for Your Intended Activity

While personal preference is of course the most important factor, keep in mind that certain activities call for specific styles. For example, for workouts, you might prefer your pants to be a tighter fit from hip to ankle. Flared pants, on the other hand, are best for gentler activities like yoga, walking, and running errands. While shorts and cropped pants are pretty versatile, use caution of wearing these while hiking or traversing wooded areas, as their design leaves your legs exposed to things like poison ivy and insects.

Materials Make a Difference

Choose your yoga pants' material based on what you plan to do in them and where you'll do it. Opt for a water-resistant fabric (like spandex or nylon) if it's likely you'll wear them in rain or near bodies of water, and go for a cozy material (like cotton) if you'll be lounging or doing light yoga in them. Anticipate getting dirty? Pick polyester or another easy-to-clean fabric.

Pay Close Attention to Size

It may seem hard to mess up buying your correct size, but not all yoga pants fit the same. When ordering online, it's wise to look over product reviews and the website's fit guide (if it has one) to decide upon your ideal size. Additionally, consider sizing down if you prefer a super compressive fit, and up if you favor roomier pants.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure writers are shopping, fashion, and product experts who use personal experience and customer recommendations to choose the best items for shoppers. For this article, Hillary Maglin and Rebecca Carhart researched dozens of yoga pants and used their expertise as travel writers to curate the perfect list of yoga pants for your exercise, travel, and beyond.

Up Next: The Best Fleece-lined Leggings for Travel

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