Rain or shine—be prepared with these 8 travel umbrellas

With climate change making weather patterns more unpredictable, packing a travel umbrella has become a practical necessity. “I was in Paris this fall and I made sure to have my favorite travel umbrella with me,” says freelance travel journalist Sara Lieberman, who calls New York and Paris home. “Sometimes, autumn in Paris is sunny and beautiful. This time, it wasn’t. I used my travel umbrella the entire time.”

At a time when everyone is traveling with just a carry-on, it can be tough to sacrifice precious suitcase space for a “just-in-case” item. But Lieberman notes that she often stays at Airbnbs, which may not offer courtesy umbrellas like many hotels do. Fortunately, there are plenty of compact umbrellas that provide excellent protection without taking up too much space.  

What makes a perfect travel umbrella? Lightweight and sturdy are two key words. You want an umbrella that won’t weigh you down but isn’t so flimsy it turns inside-out at the faintest gust of wind. Frames made from fiberglass, steel, and aluminum are essential factors for ensuring durability and wind resistance. Water-repellent canopies and PFAS-free coatings are also important to consider. 

Marissa Cortes, the New York-based owner of Wandernest, the boutique travel advisory that specializes in designing trips for the culture-curious, prioritizes small, compact, and colorful when it comes to travel umbrellas. “I bought a yellow umbrella by a company called Anatole in a shop in Paris five years ago. Since then, I’ve taken it on every trip for those rain emergencies,” she says. “It’s made of 100-percent recycled fabric.” 

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are chemical compounds often used in making water-resistant fabrics. However, concerns about their environmental and health impact have led to more manufacturers using PFAS-free, silicone-based coatings that still provide effective rain protection and naturally water-resistant materials. Polyester, olefin (a UV-resistant fabric), 100-percent biodegradable plastic, silicone coatings, and fabrics made from recycled PET containers like water bottles are all options for PFAS-free umbrellas. 

Our top picks for the best travel umbrellas cover all the bases, from small to large to budget to splurge. But our favorite travel umbrella overall, the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella, came out on top because of its highly rated wind resistance and budget-friendly price. Here are all the travel umbrellas we love and why. 

The best compact umbrellas for traveling  

We looked at portability, durability, wind-resistance, and price for the best travel umbrellas. Below, we’ve put together the pros and cons of our top picks. 

Buy it now on Amazon

Why we like it: The Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella strikes a terrific balance between durability, portability, and affordability. Its nine-rib, fiberglass construction (compared to the six or eight ribs found in standard umbrellas at this price point), helps enhance wind resistance and prevent inversion in gusts up to 40 mph, according to the manufacturer. 

The Teflon-coated, double-vented canopy keeps it lightweight while still providing excellent water repellency and sun protection. The automatic open/close mechanism operates smoothly with one hand, making it convenient when you’re juggling luggage or shopping bags. “The open/close button is a must,” says Lieberman. “I want minimal effort in my travel umbrella.” 

Keep in mind: While the umbrella is compact when folded, at nearly a foot, it’s slightly longer than some ultra-compact models. The construction also makes it slightly heavier than basic travel umbrellas, although most reviewers find the trade-off worthwhile for the added durability. 

Product details: Weight: 15 oz. | Folded length: 11.5 in. | Canopy size: 42 in. | Construction: 9 reinforced fiberglass ribs | Features: Automatic open/close, Teflon coating, ergonomic handle 

Buy it now at Davek

Why we like it: The Davek Mini is a marvel, collapsing down to just seven inches while still providing enough coverage for one person. “The Davek Mini is lovely. They have good colors so they look chic and classy while still being super functional,” says Michelle Faucheux, a Los Angeles-based founder of the travel curation company, The Curated Passenger. “I often carry a light-colored umbrella for sun protection too.” 

The high-grade steel frame, aircraft-grade aluminum shaft, and fiberglass ribs offer tons of strength. We also love that it comes in 10 colors and a sleeve so you can stash it in your purse or even your back pocket (yep, it’s that small). 

Keep in mind: The ultra-compact size means it’s best for one person and the occasional shower, not a thunder-and-lightning rainstorm. It’s more expensive than other mini umbrellas, but it’s backed by Davek’s unconditional lifetime guarantee. 

Product details: Weight: 8 oz. | Folded length: 7 in. | Canopy size: 34 in. | Construction: Steel frame, aluminum shaft | Features: Manual open, lifetime guarantee 

(These men’s rain jackets are made with multiple layers to help keep you dry.) 

Buy it now at REI

Why we like it: The ShedRain Vortex Vented Jumbo Compact Umbrella stands out for its size and portability. With a huge canopy diameter of 54 inches, this is a sharing umbrella. If you’re traveling with a partner, the ShedRain offers enough room to cover you both. Once the storm passes, it folds down to a remarkably compact 14 inches, fitting comfortably in most bags or backpacks. 

Made of fiberglass, steel, silicone, and recycled PET, the ShedRain Jumbo Compact Umbrella is made to be durable, resisting winds up to 75 mph, according to the company. The large canopy is quick-drying and the automatic open/close button makes it easy to handle. 

Keep in mind: Due to its larger canopy size, this umbrella weighs just over a pound—heavier than other compact options. If lightweight packing is your priority, you may want to pass on this one for a lighter model on our list. 

Product details: Weight: 1 lb. 8 oz. | Folded length: 15 in. | Canopy size: 54 in. | Construction: Fiberglass shaft and ribs, water-repellent recycled PET | Features: Auto open/close, cable enforce technology (CET) for wind resistance 

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Why we like it: The Blunt Metro Travel Umbrella has a unique design with distinctive, rounded edges. Blunt’s patented radial tensioning system and 360-degree spinning technology help this travel umbrella distribute force evenly across the canopy, so it’s less likely to flip inside out in strong winds (up to 72 mph, according to Blunt) or catch on a passerby or narrow passageways. Its impressive canopy size of 39 inches folds down to just under 15 inches. There’s also no shortage of style as it comes in a range of colors and patterns. We also love that Blunt is B Corp-certified for sustainability. 

Keep in mind: The Blunt Metro Travel Umbrella is heavier than other compact models, weighing in at 14 ounces. It’s also pricier, but it comes with a two-year warranty and a repair service to help keep your Blunt umbrella for a lifetime. 

Product details: Weight: 14 oz. | Folded length: 14.8 in. | Canopy size: 39.4 in. | Construction: Polycarbonate fiberglass, anodized aluminum | Features: Automatic open/close, patented tips for wind resistance  and easy repair 

(Traveling in the fall? Pack these top-rated women’s rain jackets.) 

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Why we like it: The Eez-Y Windproof Travel Umbrella offers a ton of features for a wallet-friendly $12.99. This compact umbrella has an automatic open-and-close button, an ergonomic handle, and a lightweight build that makes it comfortable and convenient. Only 11 inches when folded, it offers impressive coverage with a 42-inch canopy—plenty of rain protection for one person. With a fiberglass, double-canopy design, the Eez-Y is built to hold up in moderate winds, plus it’s water-repellent and quick-drying. 

Keep in mind: The construction makes it marginally heavier than basic travel umbrellas. This umbrella is best for one person.  

Product details: Weight: 14.4 oz. | Folded length: 11 in. | Canopy size: 42 in. | Construction: Water-repellent fabric | Features: Automatic open/close, slip-resistant handle 

Buy it now at Fox Umbrellas

Why we like it: If you prefer style over anything else, the Fox Umbrellas Animal Head Edition is the ultimate splurge umbrella at over $200. However, it’s handcrafted by one of the oldest umbrella manufacturers in the world, making umbrellas that blend luxury, craftsmanship, and functionality. This model features a beechwood handle carved in your choice of animal heads—fox, duck, greyhound, etc. A chrome-plated steel shaft and eight nickel-plated steel ribs add durability and help this umbrella resist wind. 

Keep in mind: This umbrella does not collapse like most travel options, so it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind exchanging comfort for style. Fox Umbrellas is based in the U.K. but ships to the U.S. 

Product details: Weight: 14 oz. | Length: 14.3 in. | Canopy size: 36 in. | Construction: Steel shaft ribs, polyester fabric | Features: Manual open, matching outside case   

Buy it now on Amazon

Why we like it: At 8.6 ounces, the EuroSchirm Swing Trek Liteflex calls itself the world’s lightest trekking umbrella. With high-density fiberglass ribs and a lightweight fiberglass shaft, this umbrella was originally designed for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The 45-inch canopy is made from Teflon-coated polyester for repelling water and UV rays. A non-slip EVA foam handle enhances grip, even in wet conditions. 

Keep in mind: The Swing Trek Liteflex has a manual operation rather than an automatic open/close. While it has a large canopy, the 25-inch frame is non-collapsible, so it takes up more room than other compact umbrellas in your suitcase or backpack. 

Product details: Weight: 8.6 oz. | Length: 25 in. | Canopy size: 45 in. | Construction: High-density, lightweight fiberglass, Teflon-coated polyester fabric | Features: Manual open, EVA hardfoam handle 

(We took these Cotopaxi bags to the Amazon rain forest. Here’s how they held up.) 

How to shop for a travel umbrella 

Here are a few things to consider when shopping for a travel umbrella: 

Size and weight 

Consider both the folded length and deployed canopy size. Ultra-compact models sacrifice coverage for portability, while larger options offer better protection but take up more space in your luggage. Weight is more of an issue if you’ll be carrying the umbrella for extended periods or your suitcase is already reaching the airline weight limit. 

Construction materials 

For the frame: Fiberglass offers the best strength-to-weight ratio, while aluminum provides durability with minimal weight. Steel frames are strongest but also the heaviest. 

For the canopy: Look for tightly woven polyester or nylon with water-repellent coating. Modern eco-friendly coatings can match or exceed traditional PFAS treatments in performance. 

For the handle: Rubberized grips provide better control in wet conditions.  

Wind resistance 

Multiple factors contribute to wind performance. Here’s what to look for: 

Rib count: More ribs (eight or nine) generally mean better stability. 

Venting: Double canopy designs allow wind to pass through without inverting the umbrella. 

Frame flexibility: Some flex helps absorb gusts without breaking. 

Additional features 

Automatic open/close mechanisms provide convenience but can be a failure point. Carrying cases protect both the umbrella and your other belongings. Warranty coverage varies significantly between manufacturers, so check which ones provide what you need. 

Frequently asked questions 

Should I bring an umbrella when traveling? 

Yes, a travel umbrella is useful for most destinations. Even in traditionally dry regions, unexpected rain can happen. A compact umbrella takes minimal space and can save you from both storms and sun. Check your destination’s typical weather patterns and what activities you have planned and pack accordingly. 

Can you go through TSA with an umbrella?

Yes, umbrellas are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage, according to TSA guidelines. However, it’s always a good idea to check specific airline rules regarding umbrella size and features. 

What type of umbrella is allowed on a flight?

Most travel-sized umbrellas are allowed in carry-on luggage. Full-sized umbrellas are typically fine in checked baggage, but compact models are preferred for carry-ons due to space limitations. Some airlines may count larger golf-style umbrellas as personal items, possibly affecting your carry-on allowance. Check with your airline before departure.