8 Crushable Hats, Perfect for Travel
Whether you need sun protection, extra warmth, or you're just serious about your vacation looks, "crushable" hats are a game changer. These styles promise to hold their shape no matter how you pack them! Image: iStock
Whether you’re headed for sunshine or snowfall, there’s one universal packing dilemma: How do you travel with your hat? Anyone who’s crammed a not-meant-to-be-packed hat into a suitcase knows the heartbreak of a brim that never recovers. That’s where crushable hats come in. This travel-friendly staple keeps your look polished instead of pancaked. Before you zip up your bag, pick up one of these packable hats to make sure your vacation style stays crisp, not crushed.
Stetson Expedition Crushable Wool Hat
If you’re headed out west to Wyoming, Colorado, or another cowboy destination, this Stetson is a must-buy. It’s a wool felt hat with western-inspired detailing, and it’s weather-resistant, so you can wear it even as the snow starts to fall. The feather detailing around the band adds to its free-spirited character. Can’t you picture it with a parka, boots, and a backdrop that includes snow-covered mountains? Find it for $150 at L.L.Bean.
Fray Edge Packable Panama Hat
A Panama hat has vintage appeal when it comes to summer dressing. It’s a carefree, chic piece you can wear with a pair of jean shorts and a t-shirt or a flowy caftan. The silhouette is the perfect size. Not too dramatic, but still big enough to keep the hot summer sun away from your face. And when it’s made from a straw knit that is easily packed up and worn after arriving at your destination? That’s as good as it gets. It’s $49 at Nordstrom.
Aritzia Sunbeam Raffia Short-Brim Hat
This handwoven hat is made from Madagascar raffia, giving each one a rustic, unique, handmade look that factory-made versions can’t replicate. Not only is it packable, but it’s also incredibly lightweight, making it ideal for taking on your next Caribbean destination (or anywhere in the South during the summer!). Its casual look is giving Diane Keaton vibes, and we’re absolutely here for it. It’s $68 at Aritzia.
Toucan Hats Packable Wide Brim Sunhat
This timeless, wide-brimmed straw hat from Tuckernuck is a classic they bring back year after year. From its elegant silhouette to its charming bow, it’s a lovely look for garden parties, horse races, and beach days. The ultimate spring and summer hat to keep the sun at bay, it’s $75 at Tuckernuck.
Scala All-Season Crushable Hat
This olive-colored wool felt hat has a Western look that is always in style. With a leather band wrapped just so, it leans masculine but in a way that feels stylish and intentional. Because it’s made from wool felt rather than a stiffer wool material like many cowboy hats, it packs up easily and comes out of your bag looking just like it did when you put it in. Find it for $60 at REI.
Target Packable Straw Down Brim Hat
If you’re someone with a tendency to lose things on vacation or accidentally subject items to a bit too much wear and tear, then this hat is for you. It’s only $12, but it looks like many of its more expensive peers. It has a four-inch brim that’s just the right size — not too big, not too small. And, best of all, it’s packable. So if it does survive your trip, it’ll come right back home with you in your carry-on.
Tommy Bahama Roll-up Packable Visor
Hats and ponytails don’t get along. It’s a rivalry that’s been well-established for decades (maybe centuries?). But this hat might finally be the bridge between the two. It combines a visor with styling that accommodates a high ponytail at the top of the hat or a low ponytail at the back. This is the kind of hat that you’ll wonder how you ever lived without. Pick one up for $39 at Tommy Bahama.
Eric Javits Diva Hat
If you’re ready to splurge, there are few hats more sophisticated than this Eric Javits hat. Made from signature Squishee® straw, it rolls up in your suitcase so it can go on the fabulous vacations it deserves. Not only is it beautiful, packable, and suited to any fancy summer occasion, but it also has UPF 50+. Find it for $450 at Eric Javits.
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Heather Bien
A Virginia native and professional writer of over 10 years, Heather is passionate about home decor, cooking and entertaining, travel, ballet, and coffee. You can find more of Heather's work in Southern Living, Martha Stewart, The Knot, Apartment Therapy, and Virginia Living.