8 Packable Sun Hats That Won’t Get Crushed in Your Suitcase

By Monica Mendal and Madeline Diamond
Updated July 10, 2020
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Credit: Courtesy of Retailers as Credited
Every summer, I’m tempted to invest in a sun hat for my warm weather travels, but what always prevents me from indulging in the trend is the burden of packing it. Bulky hats occupy a lot of space in a suitcase and typically lose their shape after being stuffed inside. I’ve even tried wearing my hat while traveling so that I could avoid the hassle of packing it, which inevitably led to my forgetting it at security.

Related: These Chic Espadrilles Are Secretly Water Shoes

The solution, I learned after much research, was simple. This wasn’t just a me problem. This was a universal frustration that was made clear when I discovered just how many brands make “packable hats” designed specifically for traveling. Whether they fold or roll up or are simply made from flexible materials making them more durable for packing, below are our 8 favorites.
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Gap Panama Hat

Credit: Courtesy of Gap

Gap’s packable straw hat is a classic style for anyone hoping to ease into summer hats. This bendable, woven straw maintains its shape making it easy to pack.

To buy: gap.com, $40

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Nine West Packable Kettle Hat

Credit: Courtesy of Amazon

This chic hat by Nine West was designed specifically for packing. Its woven style allows the hat to retain its shape, even after you pack it. Plus, the hat has an adjustable band on the inside, you can be sure find the right fit.

To buy: amazon.com, $40

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Madewell Packable Mesa Straw Hat

Credit: Courtesy of Madewell

This is a slightly more structured classic style — at least on the surface. While it appears structured, it is actually designed for packing, produced in a flexible straw that’s perfect for folding up and throwing in your beach bag or suitcase.

To buy: madewell.com, from $28

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Wallaroo Hat Company Scrunchie Sun Hat

Credit: Courtesy of Amazon

This lightweight, wide-brimmed hat is perfect if you're looking for maximum sun protection. It has a wire-edged brim that you can adjust based on your preferred look. The hat also easily rolls up, making packing a breeze.

To buy: amazon.com, $46

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Athleta Dipsea Bucket Hat

Credit: Courtesy of Athleta

A bucket hat is a simple yet stylish accessory for when you'll be spending time outdoors, and this version from Athleta gets bonus points for being water-resistant.

To buy: athleta.com, $48

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Free People Over The Rainbow Straw Hat

Credit: Courtesy of Free People

Add a little color to your summer looks with this bold woven sun hat from Free People. The hat's soft style and open-weave construction make it easy to fold when packing without crushing it.

To buy: freepeople.com, $68

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Islanders Ultrabraid Visor

Credit: Courtesy of Amazon

This visor offers impressive sun protection, since it's made with fabric that blocks UV rays. Plus, it rolls up to pack, taking up minimal suitcase space.

To buy: amazon.com, from $22

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Madewell Linen Cotton Reversible Bucket Hat

Credit: Courtesy of Madewell

This breezy bucket hat will make a statement while providing some much-needed shade. And since it's made from cotton and linen, you can fold it up without worrying that the hat will lose its shape.

To buy: madewell.com, $30

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By Monica Mendal and Madeline Diamond