It was Tata Harper — entrepreneur and queen of the green beauty movement — who first introduced me to the brilliance of travel wraps. After she showed off her luxurious cashmere shawl during a T+L Carry-On shoot, I immediately went out and bought one of my own. And life has never been the same (just kidding — sort of).
Scarves, blankets, ponchos, and capes all technically fall under the travel wrap umbrella. While packing one of these might not actually change your life — it will enhance the way you travel. Wraps are not only a stylish addition to any outfit, but they're also amazing multitaskers. They can be used as blankets on cold planes and as neck pillows when rolled up for long rides. They're also sheets on overnight trains and head covers on drizzly days.
Related: These Super-comfy Ugg Boots, Sneakers, and Heels Are All on Sale Right Now
Of course, you don't have to be on the road to make use of a cozy wrap. I keep my White + Warren travel shrug at my desk, so I can stay snug in freezing conference rooms. But I always take it with me when I leave for a trip — whether it's a weekend jaunt to the Hamptons or a 24-hour-flight to Bangkok.
Below, our list of the best wraps for travel. From the warmest to the most stylish, we’ve got a pick for every type of traveler.
Echo Fringe Trim Cape
The short fringe finish on this lightweight shawl updates the standard travel wrap. It’s available in three different neutral colors, making it the ultimate everyday accessory.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $50
Missoni Fringed Crochet-knit Poncho
For the edgy-but-elegant traveler, this funky patterned poncho by Missoni is the most stylish way to keep yourself warm at 39,000 feet.
To buy: net-a-porter.com, $310
Cuyana Classic Alpaca Cape
Cuyana is well known for creating T+L editor–approved travel products (we adore its alpaca travel set). This extra-long wrap is made of 100 percent baby alpaca fleece, so it’s super soft. It also looks great draped over dresses, in case you’re headed somewhere fancy after disembarking.
To buy: cuyana.com, $195
Treasure & Bond Travel Wrap
Drape this oversized travel wrap over yourself for a super soft and cozy layer for an evening stroll around town.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $49
Lululemon Hatha Wrap
We love the subtle color blocking on this wrap. The silk blended fabric provides a lightweight warmth for spring and summer travels.
To buy: lululemon.com, $128
White + Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap
The cashmere wrap beloved by Tata Harper is wide enough to be used as a blanket, but transitions easily into a chunky scarf when wrapped around your neck. It’s insanely soft and is available in an array of colors, from pastel pinks to moody grays.
To buy: saksfifthavenue.com, $298
Lands’ End Knit Shawl Wrap
Classic in shape and design, this wrap is the ideal companion whether you are traveling by train, plane, boat, or car.
To buy: landsend.com, $33
Loro Piana Tuscany Travel Scene Shawl
Family-owned company Loro Piana has been churning out the finest Italian wool and cashmere products since the turn of the century, making this stole worth the splurge. This light and playful print will make you dream of driving through the Tuscan hills.
To buy: saksfifthavenue.com, $1,650
Simone Rocha Patchwork Cardigan Wrap
This wool-blend, chunky-knit poncho is the ultimate autumn wardrobe staple. Its cropped length and fringed hem give it a perfect drape that will add a touch of elegance to any outfit.
To buy: matchesfashion.com, $679
C by Bloomingdales Cashmere Travel Wrap
Simple, chic, and incredibly warm, this uncomplicated wrap is extra long, comes in an array of colors, and is ideal for layering.
To buy: bloomingdales.com, $198
Etro Fringe Jacquard Cape
Etro’s entire collection is made of easy and versatile items. Let the geometric patterns, soft earth tones, and cozy wool blended fabric give your travels a bit more flare this season.
To buy: net-a-porter.com, $650
Madeleine Thompson Cashmere Wrap
Thick and cozy cashmere gives this wrap a blanket-like quality. Snuggle up on the couch when it’s cold outside, or wrap yourself up for a long day of travel ahead.
To buy: net-a-porter.com, $437
Steve Madden Wrap
This wool-blend wrap is warm enough for chilly autumn evenings around the fire pit, but the light color scheme makes it perfectly appropriate during the warmer months as well.
To buy: macys.com, $28
A New Day Travel Wrap
Wear it as a scarf, wrap, or blanket; this subtle cable knit is guaranteed to keep you super snug — wherever in the world you may be.
To buy: target.com, $20
The Travel Wrap Company Herringbone Wrap
This travel wrap, which comes in a variety of colors and patterns, is handcrafted in a centuries-old mill in Scotland and made with only sustainably sourced fibers. The Travel Wrap Company was granted a Royal Warrant from the Prince of Wales himself, for their supply of tweed cloths to the royal household. If their stuff is good enough for Kate Middleton, it’s good enough for us.
To buy: thetravelwrapcompany.com, $343
