Travel tights need to do three things: stay comfortable through long hours of sitting, survive being stuffed in a suitcase, and look presentable straight out of the bag. We tested several pairs on planes, trains, and walking tours to find the best options.
Wolford Neon 40 is our favorite for business travel. The fabric resists wrinkles, the waistband stays flat, and the glossy finish works for both day meetings and evening dinners.
Calzedonia 20 Denier Ultra Comfort is the budget choice for warm destinations. It packs small, dries quickly after hand washing in a hotel sink, and is cheap enough to replace if it snags.
Falke Pure Matt 50 is best for colder trips. The matte opaque knit adds warmth without bulk and pairs well with boots and wool skirts.
Roll tights instead of folding them, and pack them inside shoes to save space and prevent the waistband from creasing. Always pack a backup pair in your carry-on.
For most trips, pack one 40-denier pair and one opaque 60-denier pair. Choose brands known for strong waistbands and snag-resistant fabric, and you will avoid the dreaded travel-day run.