19 best lightweight rain jackets for travellers in 2026

From festivals to day trips, you’ll be glad you threw this super-lightweight Hunter poncho into your tote when the rain starts to pour impromptu. It has a unisex fit in an unassuming black colouring and is big enough to slip easily over whatever you’re wearing down to your knees (your wellies will do the rest of the work from there). The adjustable hood and side snap closures offer customisable protection, although it’s better for summer showers than winter downpours – keep this for Glastonbury and staycation summer day trips in the UK. It packs neatly into its own attached pouch, so you can stash it in a day bag and forget about it – until you need it.

Specs

Number of layers: One
Waterproof material: 100 per cent water-resistant polyester
Pockets: No
Pit zips: No

The coat that took over the whole of London last winter. Damson Madder’s Lui raincoat is proof that practicality doesn’t have to mean predictability, with that signature deep blue check design that looks good on everyone and a cool sell-out design that’s comfortably confirmed as a failsafe option to see us through a dreary wet-weather season. It has an oversized silhouette cinched in flatteringly at the waist that’s easy to layer over bulky jumpers without losing its shape. It’s made more interesting than your average raincoat with details including balloon sleeves, adjustable waist ties and embroidered branding that elevate the look. With a shell made entirely from recycled materials, it’s a more considered choice, too, and it’s thick and cosy to stave off the chill in December climes.

Specs

Number of layers: Two
Waterproof material: 100 per cent recycled polyester
Pockets: Side and chest pockets
Pit zips: No

For a breathable layer to bring on fitness retreats and to serve as a handy throw-on summer layer, this lightweight jacket from Sweaty Betty ticks the right boxes. Made from a breathable, water-resistant ripstop fabric, it’s designed to keep you comfortable during light showers without overheating – a good option for that annoying light mizzle that doesn’t really require you to don your full jacket but still leaves you a little damp after a while. The relaxed fit, elasticated cuffs and adjustable bungee hem give it a cool relaxed feel that works for all casual occasions, whether you’re heading out for a walk, hopping on the metro on a city break or headed home post-workout. Practical details like patch pockets, a full zip and a hood add extra functionality.

Specs

Number of layers: One
Waterproof material: 100 per cent polyamide
Pockets: Two front pockets
Pit zips: No

This is an excellent choice for those looking for more sustainable options when shopping – It’s been produced in a renewable energy-powered factory that’s been assessed favourably for a number of green criteria. Plus, it’s made from organic cotton with a PFC-free water-resistant coating, which offers protection from wind and rain without relying on traditional plastics. Practically, there’s an oversized fit that allows for layering and ease of movement, along with a roomy hood, deep pockets and heavy-dutyYKK zips, ensuring it’s reliable pick for everyday usage. It has a stylish minimal appeal in crowd-pleasing cream and warm grey colourways.

Specs

Number of layers: One
Waterproof material: Cotton with PFC-free water-resistant coating
Pockets: Two
Pit zips: No

Pros: Stylish look and completely waterproof

Cons: Wide sleeves and no hood make it not so good for driving wind and rain

If you thought raincoats were all function over style, this one will change your mind. We love this stylish jacket with its distinctly 60s vibe, delivered through the two-tone design, A-line cut and bell sleeves. While this might not be the best option for a hike or when battling through gale force rain and wind (because the wrists aren’t sealed and there’s no hood), it’s our top pick for city wear.

Although clearly designed with fashion in mind, this coat is still made from heavyweight 530g material that offers complete waterproof protection, with the brand testing it up to a +20,000 mm water column pressure and has double-welded seams. The fabric used is PVC, well known for being 100% waterproof and highly durable, but this one has a unique matte texture which gives it a suede-like look and feel.

Specs

Number of layers: One-layer construction with taped inside seams
Measured weight: 530g
Waterproof fabric: Nylon, body rubberised cotton on sleeves and collar
Pockets: Two front patch pockets
Pit zips: No

Pros: Lightweight, breathable and available in 11 colours

Cons: Showerproof but not waterproof

If you’re after something that will protect you from showers, defend against wind but not be too warm the signature ‘Jacket’ by Rains is a great choice. Although this one is only suitable for wearing in light rain, rather than when it’s bucketing down, the PU fabric, welded seams, cap hood and snap closure sleeves makes it your perfect companion for a drizzly day. The vent holes in the arms and back means you won’t overheat when wearing this, even when on the move, and the windchill protection will help keep your warm when there is a chill in the air. This unisex design comes it a broad range of colours, from neutral browns and greys to sunny yellow, purple and green

Specs

Number of layers: Two layers
Measured weight: 470g
Waterproof fabric: 100% polyester
Pockets: Two poppered hand pockets
Pit zips: No

Pros: Stretch waterproof fabric for freedom of movement

Cons: Tight fit, so no room for jumpers underneath

This is one of the lightest and most fitted waterproof rain jacket on the list, but it’s also one of the best performing. The brand has tested the waterproof protection successfully up to 10,000mm (meaning it’s completely waterproof), yet it’s made from a breathable, stretchy fabric for a tight fit that doesn’t restrict movement at all – perfect for hiking and trails. Our commerce writer, Charley Ward, put this jacket to the ultimate test on a five-day horse riding trek in Iceland.

“The weather in Iceland is notoriously unpredictable, and we were towards the very tail end of the summer – basically, it was cold. I did of course need multiple thermal layers and a big jumper to keep me warm but I had this coat on every time I left the safety of the ranch. It was a real lifeline as a final layer, keeping me completely dry even after a solid eight hours on horseback, with on and off rain throughout the day. I also retained complete freedom of movement; obviously a necessity in this instance. But the main plus was the windproofing. It was remarkably effective, making a noticeable difference to comfort levels as soon as it was on. I was genuinely impressed.” Charley Ward, commerce writer

Specs

Number of fabric layers: 2.5 layers
Measured Weight: 340kg
Waterproof fabric : Water and windproof HIPE® technology shell
Pockets: Two zippered hand pockets
Pit Zips: No

Pros: Leak-proof, with microfleece lined neck for additional warmth and comfort

Cons: Snug fit so not much room for jumpers underneath

If you’re looking for a light waterproof rain jacket that you can pop in your bag and pull out on the go, the Patagonia Torrentshell is a great choice. The smart look makes it perfect for city or hike wear, so it’s a really versatile piece for your wardrobe, while the 100% recycled waterproof shell will help give you peace of mind about doing your bit for the planet. Featuring a two-way adjustable hood (which helps keep rainwater off glasses!) and a microfibre fleece lined neck, you’ll feel completely warm and dry when wearing this one.

If you’re on the move or sporting this in slightly warmer weather, you’ll be grateful for the fact that this waterproof material is also breathable, so you won’t overheat in a hurry. Weighing in at just 352g and folding up super small, this can easily fit into your carry-on or weekender bag as a handy layer to throw on any time you need it. This bestseller is available in men’s and women’s sizes and various colours, including white, black, mauve, blue, green, and more.

Specs

Number of layers: 2.5 layers
Measured weight: 352g
Waterproof fabric: 100% recycled nylon waterproof shell, Microfleece-lined neck
Pockets: Two zippered hand pockets
Pit zips: Yes

Pros: Available in plus sizes up to 3X

Cons: Not very thick, best suited to warm/cool climes unless layered

Colombia is a tried and true brand that’s been around since 1938, and their nearly a century of expertise shows in the high quality, thoughtful design of this affordable lightweight rain jacket. At just £59, the fact that this one can hold its own against many considerably more expensive options makes it all the more worthy of a place on our list.

The brand’s own Omni-Tech nylon fabric has been crafted to be both waterproof and breathable, with Velcro cuffs, a cord-adjustable hem and sealed seams to keep all traces of rain and wind locked out. Although snug and warm, the fabric is air-permeable, so it’s really comfortable to wear during active days, from taking a brisk walk down by the coast, to hiking or mountain biking through the woods. This jacket is made for travel, thanks to a really clever design which allows you to fold up the entire jacket into a pocket on the sleeve.

Specs

Number of layers: Two layers
Measured weight: 408g
Waterproof fabric : 100% nylon with a 100% polyester mesh lining
Pockets: Two zippered hand pockets
Pit zips: No

Pros: Packs away into a back pocket and can then be worn as a sling bag!

Cons: Not 100% waterproof – best for showers not downpours.

When you shop with Free People, you know you’re buying something that’s designed to look great. We’ll admit, some rain jackets can look a little frumpy, but unsurprisingly this one goes against the grain with its flattering oversized fit, thigh cut outs and super cute colours (we particularly love ‘Endzone’).

Of course, it would be fair to wonder if style has overtaken function here, but it hasn’t. As well as showcasing the usual Free People high-end style, this jacket is also waterproof and wind-resistant, has a sweat-wicking interior, adjustable cuff and hood closures, sealed seams and large pockets – including one on the back. The back pocket can also be used to pack the jacket into when you’re done wearing it, and can then be worn as a sling bag! A unique design we’ve not seen before.

If you’re looking for a waterproof jacket to see you through spring and summer this should definitely be top of your list.

Specs

Number of layers: Two layers
Measured weight: 907g
Waterproof fabric : 5K waterproof membrane, 100% nylon shell and 100% polyester lining
Pockets: Two zippered hand pockets, two external pockets and a large back pocket
Pit zips: No

Pros: Ultra lightweight

Cons: Runs small and thin material

Looking for something really lightweight and easy to pull on when the weather shifts? Look no further than this bargain half-zip jacket from iconic sportswear brand, Champion. This is a unisex item that looks great on all shapes, sizes and genders, and it’s light enough to wear all year round. It’s one we’d recommend if you’re heading off on a spring golfing holiday in a destination like Italy or Portugal, where the weather can turn suddenly but it’s unlikely to get very cold.

You’ll barely notice you have this in your bag, as it’s so lightweight and because it can be neatly packed away into the large front pocket – which when you’re wearing can be very useful for carrying valuables around in a city. You can leave the handbag at home! It’s easy to see why this jacket is an Amazon bestseller, with over 9000 positive reviews. It’s a perfect choice for wearing in light rain showers, but bear in mind, this is water-resistant, not waterproof, so it’s not suitable to wear in heavy rain.

Specs

Number of layers: One layer
Measured weight: 250g
Waterproof material: 100% recycled polyester
Pockets: Two zippered hand pockets, plus a large front pocket
Pit zips: No

Pros: Adjustable length, perfect for wear during sports play

Cons: Thin material and water resistant, not waterproof

For those of you who love a sporty, casual look, or genuinely need a jacket to wear when actually playing sports, the Vuori Willow jacket is everything you’ve been dreaming of. Traveller Commerce Writer, Charley Ward, has been eyeing this one up for spring days spent playing pickleball or tennis. It’s hip-length cut (which can be adjusted to a cropped style using a cord pull, or left to hang lower) and made from a lightweight (mostly) recycled fabric, makes it breathable and easy to move around in.

If you’re the active sort, the heat-dissipating mesh feature will appeal to you, as this helps you to stay cool and avoid overheating even when running around. This one is perfect for keeping you dry during light showers with its water repellent finish, but it’s not waterproof or layered. The chic styles makes the Willow jacket a must-pack item for most trips away, as it looks great with almost any outfit. It’s also kitted out with welt pockets, a storm flap, and a drawcord that lets you adjust the hood.

Specs

Number of layers: Two layers
Measured weight:
Waterproof fabric: 100% recycled water-resistant polyamide
Pockets: Two welt pockets
Pit zips: No

Pros: Beautiful selection of colours

Cons: Size runs a little big

This is a traditional pac-a-mac with a stylish twist. The Princess seams give an elegant fit to this lightweight jacket that you won’t find elsewhere, and the drawstring waist also helps to create a flattering silhouette. When it comes to defending against the wind and rain, the elasticated cuffs and adjustable hood adds to the water and windproof protection of the fabric itself, which is robust enough to withstand heavy showers. We love how this one packs down into its pocket, making it perfect for bringing with you on your travels, while the cheery colours are perfectly in-keeping with a sunny holiday wardrobe.

Specs

Number of layers: Two layers
Measured weight: 461g
Waterproof material: 100% waterproof polyester
Pockets: Two zippered hand pockets
Pit zips: No

Pros: Very low price

Cons: Thin material, not warm

Despite its low price, this lightweight waterproof rain jacket has all the features you need to stay dry in an unexpected shower, and it looks great too. It’s a best-seller for a reason, made from resilient but feather light nylon material that can be folded up really small, right down into the chest pocket, allowing you to keep it stowed away until you need it. Unusually, the hood can be packed up too when you’re wearing it, giving you the choice to keep it out in case of showers, or tuck it in for a different style. The zippered front pockets and adjustable cuffs ensure all water stays well away from your clothes and your essentials like phone, wallet and keys, so you can feel cool, dry and confident all day long, whether you’re hiking, biking, or sightseeing.

Specs

Number of layers: Two layers
Measured weight: 91g
Waterproof material: 100% nylon taffeta shell
Pockets: Two zippered hand pockets
Pit zips: No

Pros: Waterproof phone pocket and long length for added protection

Cons: Runs large

This coat from cult workout wear brand and Traveller favourite, Lululemon, is packed with smart features such as a strategically placed back vent to provide airflow, cinchable hood and waist with a slim slide-and-lock toggle, zippered pockets with a hidden phone sleeve, interior pockets to hold valuables, a two-way zipper and flip up the cuffs with reflective details. It’s been designed to fit loose and allow space for jumpers underneath, so don’t size up. The 100% recycled ‘Waterproof Glyde’ fabric keeps you dry and a sweat-wicking liner, makes it a perfect year-round jacket, whatever the weather. We love the long cut that hangs beautifully when worn and offers extra protection, draping right down over the thighs to allow for water run-off, shedding water away from your body rather than onto it.

Specs

Number of layers: Three layers
Measured weight: 91g
Waterproof fabric: Waterproof polyester
Pockets: Two zippered pockets with a hidden phone sleeve, interior pockets
Pit zips: No

Pros: Helmet-friendly hood makes this perfect for bikers

Cons: High price tag

Being lightweight doesn’t mean light on features or protection, as this superb jacket from Canadian outdoor apparel brand, Arc’teryx, proves. It’s the most expensive option on our list but for your money you get a waterproof coat that keeps the wind and rain at bay more than any other jacket we’ve tried, thanks to features like the WaterTight front zipper and 3 laminate layers. This one is really built for biking, with a helmet-friendly hood, a carefully structured, snug-fitting design that allows excellent freedom of movement and highly breathable and durable, rip-resistant fabric. There are multiple pockets available here too, so you’ll have plenty of space to carry everything you need.

Specs

Number of layers: Three layers
Measured weight: 340g
Waterproof fabric: GORE-TEX, three-layer laminate, GORE C-Knit, ePE membrane
Pockets: Two zipped front pockets, one inside pocket
Pit zips: Yes

Pros: High fashion aesthetic

Cons: Showerproof not waterproof

There’s something a bit Blade Runner about the matte PU material used to make this stylish rain jacket, which comes in black, navy, olive, or grey. It’s effortlessly cool, and definitely one for someone who wants to stay dry in the rain but look high fashion while they do it.

As well as being designed to please the eye, Danish brand, Rains, has clearly thought long and hard about everything you might need in a waterproof coat, because it’s highly functional. The double welded seams and two-way waterproof zipper makes this really secure from wind and rain, while the cap and adjustable hood and hem offer flexibility to cater to any condition.

Specs

Number of layers: Three layers
Measured weight: 510g
Waterproof material: 100% polyester
Pockets: Two zippered hand pockets
Pit zips: No

Pros: Forever chemical free water repellent coating

Cons: It’s short, so doesn’t provide any coverage for the thighs

We listed our favourite Vuori waterproof jacket for women, so we had to add one for men too. One stand-out point about this one is that although it does have a water repellent coating, it’s a PFC-free one. PFC stands for polyfluorinated chemicals – a group of over 8,000 known chemical substances known as ‘forever chemicals’ that are considered to be harmful to both humans and the environment. The shell is also made from 100% recycled polyester with seam-sealed waterproof protection, power mesh lining, duckbill hood, and a durable exterior designed to withstand heavy rain.

Specs

Number of layers: Two layers
Measured weight: 340g
Waterproof material: 100% recycled polyester
Pockets: Two zipped front pockets, one inside pocket
Pit zips: Yes

Pros: Snug fit hood and elasticated cuffs to keep the rain out

Cons: No internal pockets

If you’re looking for a waterproof jacket that will keep you warm and dry even if you’re out hiking in thundering rain for hours, the Antora jacket will deliver. It’s waterproof, windproof and seam sealed, with an adjustable cord on the hem line to pull it right in and keep the rain right out, and elasticated cuffs. There are plenty of zippered pockets too, to hold keys, AirPods, or other small essentials. The three-piece hood tucks in tight right around the head, so you won’t feel any wind and rain sneaking in through your neckline either, while a drop-tail hem allows water to run off rather than falling onto your clothes. And the three layers will keep you cosy.

Specs

Number of layers: Three layers
Measured weight: 340g
Waterproof fabric: 100% recycled water-repellent ripstop nylon
Pockets: Two zipped front pockets
Pit zips: No