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.
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, $250
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
Madewell Plaid Cape Scarf
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: madewell.com, $80
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
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
Babjades Suede-Trimmed Poncho
This wool-blend jewel toned poncho is the ultimate autumn wardrobe staple. Its cropped length and handkerchief hem give it a perfect drape that will add a touch of elegance to any outfit.
To buy: net-a-porter.com, $805
Alexander McQueen Patchwork Jacquard Cape
Medieval influences in Cornwall are what inspired this crafty cape. Let the patchwork flowers, argyle, and sculls give your travels a bit of folk flare this season.
To buy: net-a-porter.com, $885
Tomas Maier Striped Wool Wrap
We love the oversized red and black stripes on this wrap. The Italian-made wool shawl is warm enough for fall and winter travels.
To buy: net-a-porter.com, $890
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
Acne Studios Fringed Wool Wrap
Simple, chic, and incredibly warm, this uncomplicated wrap is extra long (with extra long tassels) and is ideal for layering.
To buy: net-a-porter.com, $360
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
Queene and Belle Aspen Cable-Knit Cashmere Wrap
Spun from pure cashmere in Scotland, this chunky cable knit is guaranteed to keep you super snug — wherever in the world you may be.
To buy: matchesfashion.com, $899
