Since nobody prefers finishing his/her bike ride or walk in a city all wet.
Therefore, imagine the following situation: you are halfway through a beautiful ride or exploring a new European city, and the skies open up—cliché, but you get the point. We were all once caught out on the wrong side of the rain, soaked to the skin, or sweating pores in some plastic poncho you bought at the last minute in a panic at a holiday gift shop. That is why a travel rain jacket became one of my must-haves when I prepare for any trip (to cycle or not to cycle).
Actually, it is a bit wild how underrated a good travel rain jacket is. Backpacks, gadgets and fancy layering systems people make a fuss about, but your jacket? and that is the thing that separates you from turning into a wet mess with absolutely no patience whatsoever.
To begin with, this is not really the case. Rain jackets are not made equal. In case your rain jacket makes you feel as though you are wearing a crinkly garbage bag or causes you to drip with marathon-like sweat, dump it. The perfect travel rain jacket must be compact, permeable and what is most importantly, supposed to keep the rain out.
What to look out--Here:
Waterproof and breathable: You ever get that swampy feeling up your inner arm? Yah, don't do that.
Light and small: It should fit into your backpack or saddlebag.
Sturdy zippers and liquid-tight seams: Nobody enjoys unrecoverable leaks.
Adjustable hood and cuffs: Makes things tight without the feeling that you have just become a walking balloon.
For me, the real game-changer was finding a jacket that actually folds down into its own pocket. I know, tiny feature—but when you’re cramming gear into every inch of your bag, it matters.
Look, if you’re riding long distance or commuting regularly, you need a solid, lightweight rain jacket. The weather can flip in an instant—especially here in the UK—and your ride can go from joyful to miserable faster than you can say “forgot my raincoat.”
I’ve learned the hard way. Once rode 12 miles in a downpour wearing what I thought was waterproof. Turns out it was just “water-resistant,” which is basically fashion speak for “you’ll still get soaked.” Never again.
Now, I carry a legit waterproof travel rain jacket that folds up tiny but holds up huge when things get wet. Whether it’s a surprise shower or full-on storm, I’m dry—and still enjoying the ride.
This is where it gets personal. There are loads of options, but a few stand out for different types of travelers and riders. Here’s a rundown:
1. Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
Sustainable, stylish, and super waterproof.
Packs into its own pocket.
Great breathability for longer rides or hikes.
2. Montbell Versalite
Minimalist dream. Lightweight as heck (under 200g).
Surprisingly durable for its weight class.
Ideal for backpacking and ultralight travel.
3. GORE-TEX Paclite Plus Jackets
The king of packable performance.
Waterproof and breathable.
Kind of expensive, but lasts forever.
4. The North Face Dryzzle
All-around excellent rain jacket for travel.
Roomy enough for layering.
Classic style that doesn’t scream “technical gear nerd.”
Personally? I’ve rotated between the Patagonia and GORE-TEX options depending on the trip. If I’m cycling, I want breathability. If I’m city-hopping with unpredictable weather? I go for something slightly more structured but still light.
You’d think that the lighter a travel rain jacket is, the more delicate it would be. But some of these jackets are tough as nails. I’ve had mine snagged on tree branches, rubbed against rock faces, and even tossed carelessly into the bottom of my bag—and it’s still going strong.
And let’s not forget: packability is a form of power. Being able to toss your compact rain jacket in your bike bag or the corner of your carry-on means you’ll always be ready. Which, let’s be honest, is the difference between being that person soaked and grumpy… and the one smugly strolling dry and smiling.
Storytime. Last autumn, I was cycling across Wales—nothing fancy, just a few friends, some campfire snacks, and our bikes. Day two? Absolutely dumped rain. Like, biblical. Everyone’s gear got soaked except mine. I put on my light wind shell jacket, further zippered it and did not get wet even for a second.
You know what came afterwards? We got in at a small country pub, and all the rest were dripping on the floor, and I was drinking a dry, comfortable pint. It is money well spent.
It feels so good to have a preconceived travel rain jacket that is simply reliable. No muss, no mess, no oh no! Smooth and dry adventures only—even when the sky will show its best efforts to spoil your day.
Therefore, no matter whether you are riding your bike through the countryside, you are traveling to a town full of mist that is on the mountain, or you feel like you are just dawdling down the road of some rainy city, do not underestimate the possibilities a good jacket can bring. It is the armor that you never realized you needed—up until the time that you really need it.
A travel rain jacket may not be such an exciting item to buy; however, it is not. It is that one item of equipment that rescues you more times than you can imagine. And when you fall in love with the one, you will never know how you managed to travel without a travel rain jacket.
When you want to add to your inclement weather clothing, visit Tredz. The no-nonsense approach to their carefully selected range of lightweight rain jackets, as well as cycle-prepared ones, is perfect for those who are interested both in comfort and in good performance. Whether you prefer the slick city looks or the rugged shell of the back country, Tredz has set something that every traveler with the strict motto of not letting some rain become the spoiler.
1. What is the best rain jacket for backpacking men?
In all fairness, it is weight, porousness and cost. The Montbell Versalite and Patagonia Torrentshell are the leading ones. They are lightweight and compressible; they are comfortable to wear, even for a long time. When you are planning to do some serious backpacking or long-distance touring, consider one with adjustable ventilation or with pit zips. Game changer.
2. What brand has the best rain jackets?
Depends on your budget and vibe. Patagonia, Arc’teryx, and GORE-TEX gear are pretty unbeatable in performance. But if you're looking for value without sacrificing too much quality, check out Columbia or Outdoor Research. I’ve used jackets from all of them, and honestly, it’s about finding the right fit and feature combo for your adventures.
