The Best Travel Dresses of 2022 (2023)

Published on June 7, 2022

Best Overall: HVN Laura Dress

Why We Love It: Even the Duchess of Cambridge is a fan.

What to Consider: It's dry clean only.

Flying with only a carry-on? This versatile dress is ideal for packing light. "It folds and packs effectively," explains Harley Viera-Newton, the DJ-slash-designer behind HVN. "I've been able to fit as many as 12 in one side of a carry-on suitcase before!" she says. Beyond being practical, the timeless style is universally flattering, with a slim bodice that flows into a gathered skirt. It's available in a kaleidoscope of prints and block colors, so there is something for everyone, and often, something for a theme: There's even a "breakfast" print this season, and others have buttons made from playful motifs like hearts, daisies, and ice cream cones. HVN's vintage-inspired designs have had rave reviews since the brand launched in 2016 and the Laura Dress is one of the best-selling styles. "It's made from a light, breathable cotton that is perfect for hot summer days," Viera-Newton explains.

Sizes: 0-20 | Material: 100 percent stretch cotton.

Best Sporty Dress: Polo Ralph Lauren Dress

Why We Love It: It's more refined than your standard athleisure ensemble.

What to Consider: It is form-fitting and quite short, so maybe not the best option for in-transit wear.

There are few apparel items as iconic as the Ralph Lauren polo, and the dress version is equally timeless. It's the perfect alternative to athleisure wear, providing a more polished look that is suitable for wearing to breakfast and then on to a coastal walk or a bike ride into town. And should the opportunity to play tennis arise, this is an excellent choice for aesthetic and functional reasons. The cap sleeves provide ample shoulder protection for days spent in the sun. It also has breathable mesh cotton fabric and a vented hem, which is ideal for activities that raise the heat. And if you intend on capturing good photos from the sportier side of your trip, this preppy dress will look a lot more refined than a pair of leggings.

Sizes: XXS-XL | Material: 100 percent cotton

Best Mini Dress: Zimmermann Postcard Spliced Mini Dress

Why We Love It: It's an eye-catching piece that will have you feeling like a jetsetter.

What to Consider: This dress is best suited to petite figures (there is a midi version that's a better fit for taller women), and it is a splurge.

Aptly named the Postcard Dress, this elegant silhouette could live in a vintage travel ad from Monte Carlo. It's an elevated take on the classic minidress, with structured tailoring that adds an element of formality. There is a fitted bodice, a removable buckled belt, linen lining, and shirring at the back with an invisible zip, allowing for unrestricted movement. Whimsical florals are always a mainstay in Zimmermann's collections, and this spliced tonal print provides a modern update on the standard spring blooms. Whether you're attending a soiree abroad or seeking a sophisticated look for date night, this dress will turn heads for all the right reasons. Pair with nude Chanel slingbacks and a Micro Lady Dior bag for a refined evening look, or if you're planning on wearing it during the day, pair with flat leather Staud sandals and a Saint Laurent Raffia tote.

Sizes: 0P (0 Petite)-12 | Material: 100 percent linen throughout the main dress, 100 percent cotton lining.

Related: The Best Wrinkle-resistant Dresses

Best Splurge: Gucci Double G Chain Dress

Why we Love it: It will stand the test of time.

What to Consider: There are delicate features, so it's one for the drycleaners only.

The demand for "reemerging" fashion is greater than ever, and what could be better for making an entrance than a luxurious Gucci Little Blue Dress? It's great for city escapes with itineraries that are just as lively in the evening as they are during the day (picture this at Bulgari Milano during aperitivo hour or Girafe in Paris, overlooking the glittering Eiffel Tower). This classic silhouette has a 90s-supermodel vibe, enriched with gold lamé trims and interlocking G chain hardware — a distinctive symbol of the Italian fashion house. Pair with Amina Muaddi pumps and a slick of lipstick and you're set for a glamorous night out.

Sizes: XXS-XL | Material: 54 percent wool, 46 percent cotton.

Best Midi Dress: Zara Satin Effect Cut-Out Dress

Why We Love It: It's an elegant take on the cut-out trend.

What to Consider: It's not ideal for women with bigger busts that need to wear a bra for support.

You can always count on Zara for a trend piece, and according to e-commerce data, this cut-out midi is one of the most purchased dresses on the site right now. The Satin Effect Cut-Out Dress has a bikini-style top with a wide V-neck and adjustable spaghetti straps that tie and cross at the back. The hem sits just above the ankle with a subtle flare, creating a flattering line. Another standout feature is the vibrant print, with bright green contrasted against icy turquoise, a popular color combination that would look right at home amid lush tropical surrounds.

Sizes: XS-XXL | Material: 98 percent viscose, 2 percent elastane

Most Versatile: A.L.C Sadie Ribbed-Knit Dress

Why We Love It: You can wear it for a full day exploring a city, no matter the formality.

What to Consider: It's dry clean only.

This versatile dress can be worn day or night, dressed up or down, and in both casual and formal environments. "I've been on the hunt for a 'wear everywhere' dress for summer," says Net-a-Porter's Senior Market Editor, Libby Page. "This maxi dress by A.L.C will work perfectly for a weekend away, a stroll through the city, or dressed up for a night out and everything in between." It's comfortable enough to live in for a full day of activities. And being in black, it's ideal for concealing any stains that could be picked up on the journey.

Sizes: XS-L | Material: The fabric in the bodice is 71 percent viscose, 15 percent polyester, 13 percent nylon, 1 percent elastane, and the fabric in the skirt is 100 percent cotton.

Related: The 8 Best Exercise Skirts and Skorts of 2022

Most Comfortable: Amazon The Drop Renata Dress

Why We Love It: It's comfortable and easy to throw on and go when traveling.

What to Consider: It's a loose fit, so it's advised to size down.

It's the perfect dress for the actual travel portion of going away. The staple from Amazon's The Drop collection was designed for situations where comfort is paramount but a full-on tracksuit would be too casual. It won't cling (great for walking), it's temperature neutral (which is ideal for traveling between seasons), and it's long enough to provide coverage if you're going to be seated or lying horizontally, should you encounter an extended layover. The double-sided slit adds dimension to the boxy shape.

Sizes: XX-Small-2XL | Fabric: 52 percent acrylic, 25 percent polyester, 14 percent nylon, 5.5 percent viscose, 3.5 percent wool

Best Non-crease: Scanlan Theodore Square Neck Dress

Why We Love It: The quality is incredible; the dress will last decades.

What to Consider: Be careful of catching jewelry on it to avoid pilling.

Scanlan Theodore's signature crepe knit is revolutionary. The fabric is exclusive to the Australian brand, and it's crease-free, with a high level of elasticity and a dense knit that has a shapewear effect. In other words, it's an absolute dream to have in your wardrobe and even better for traveling. There are a variety of styles comprised of crepe knit, but if there is one piece to invest in that will be a go-to for any type of trip, from a holiday to a destination wedding or a corporate event, make it the Square Neck Dress. The elegant midi dress is timeless, flattering, and appropriate for various occasions. Plus, you won't need to pull out an ironing board while abroad ever again.

Sizes: XS-L | Material: Crepe knit, which is made from FSC viscose and uses a specially designed Italian polyamide component to enable the high level of stretch and recovery

Best Shirt Dress: L'Agence Cameron Belted Shirt Dress

Why We Love It: It's one of the most stylish shirt dresses on the market.

What to Consider: It's dry clean only.

Nothing says vacation like a floaty linen shirt dress, and this L'Agence number is perfect for wearing alone, as a coverup, or as a duster. Stylized design features elevate the otherwise simple silhouette: It has a tie belt to cinch in the waist, cuffed three-quarter sleeves, a hidden front button placket, and side slits to add movement while swanning around resorts. It's so popular that it's reimagined season after season in neutrals and summery shades, like this fresh Baltic blue.

Sizes: XXS-XL | Material: 100 percent linen.

Related: The Best Yoga Pants

Best Maxi Dress: Rixo Sorrento Tiered Maxi Dress

Why We Love It: It looks right at home in even the most charming seaside towns.

What to Consider: It's dry clean only.

London-based brand Rixo is renowned for its summer-ready, ultra-wearable dresses, and this candy-colored maxi is perfect for an Amalfi Coast agenda. The floaty, tiered dress has a V-neck with tie-fastening straps, so you can adjust the fit to suit and maneuver it to catch some rays of sunshine. The color pattern, meanwhile, strikes a balance between subtle and bright. It was made for la dolce vita.

Sizes: XXS-3XL | Material: 100 percent cotton

Best T-shirt Dress: Everlane Oversized Mariner Dress

Why We Love It: It gets top marks for sustainability and versatility.

What to Consider: It's oversized and floaty, so it won't provide a structured fit.

Everlane is revered for its sustainable and affordable wardrobe staples, like this floaty T-shirt dress. The versatile piece is a wardrobe staple, essential for any type of trip and season. If you're heading somewhere cold, pair with a cashmere trench coat and chunky boots; for summer, simply add your favorite sandals.

Sizes: XXS-XL | Material:100 percent organic cotton

Best Cover-up: Frame Crochet Knit Midi Dress

Why We Love It: It feels like a robe but looks like a dress.

What to Consider: It's hand-wash or dry clean only.

It's as comfortable as wearing a robe and is perfect for days spent at the beach. The artisanal-style crochet pairs beautifully over a bikini and can be easily dressed up and styled with chunky jewelry and sandals. The best feature? It's partially lined down to the mid-thigh, so you can easily repurpose it for a more formal setting without having to worry about adding a slip. No wonder it's one of Frame's most popular dress styles.

Sizes: XXS-XL | Material: 65 percent rayon, 35 percent nylon