13 Writer-loved Uniqlo Travel Essentials From $20

The main qualities I look for when curating a versatile travel wardrobe—and an everyday one, for that matter—are pretty straightforward: pieces that look good, feel good, and feature flattering silhouettes that mix, match, and layer without too much overthinking. And the first brand that pops into my head that checks every one of those boxes? Uniqlo. The Tokyo-based retailer has built its reputation on high-quality, functional, affordable clothing that skips trends in favor of timeless basics that are anything but boring. I’ve been wearing Uniqlo since high school, and its pieces are made to last (I have a few wool sweaters and pants that are still in rotation after over 10 years).

Safe to say that Uniqlo forms the foundation of my closet. Almost every outfit I wear has at least one Uniqlo piece (I have the Uniqlo Straight Jeans in four washes), and practically every other piece in my carry-on suitcase is from the retailer. Right now, we’re in peak fall weather, and these are the 13 Uniqlo pieces that always make it into my suitcase.

Best Picks Overall

Uniqlo Straight Jeans

These 100 percent cotton jeans have a flattering mid-rise fit (they don’t climb too far up your core but still offer really solid coverage) and a straight-leg cut that can be dressed up for dinner or kept casual with a boxy tee. The denim has that perfect structured-but-soft feel that breaks in beautifully with every wear. Plus, the clean, minimal design makes them endlessly reliable—one of those pairs you’ll reach for so often, they basically live at the top of my drawer.

Oxford Boxy Cropped Shirt

This tailored, boxy button-down is an easy, lightweight layer that instantly pulls an outfit together. The oversized silhouette gives it a relaxed, effortless feel, which makes it perfect for travel days or casual exploring. It’s oversized, so size down one if you prefer a classic button-down fit, or stick with your usual size for that laid-back look (I sized down). It’s also made with a cotton-rayon blend which keeps it from wrinkling in my travel bag—even if I haphazardly throw it in there). 

Souffle Yarn Dress

Fall and winter dresses that keep you warm while still looking flattering are hard to come by, but this dress is the stylish piece that you’ll end up wearing again and again. The calf-length, flowy silhouette looks beautiful on its own with a pair of fleece-lined tights and a belt for shape, or layered under a button-down shirt for an effortlessly sophisticated look.

Jersey Barrel Pants

These Jersey Barrel Pants have surpassed “trend” and now are a modern wardrobe staple with staying power. The gently curved, wide-leg silhouette adds a fashion-forward edge without going over the top, while the mid-rise fit and soft jersey fabric (made with a polyester-cotton-spandex blend) make them comfortable enough to wear on travel days and casual outings alike. With functional, deep pockets and a relaxed drape, they’re the kind of pants I reach for again and again. 

HeatTech Ultra Warm Leggings

These thermal leggings are also high on my packing list this time of year, and they allow me to wear all my favorite outfits without sacrificing warmth. I layer them under maxi dresses or jeans, and like the long-sleeve HeatTech top, they provide plenty of insulation without added bulk. Super soft and stretchy, they feel like a second skin, making them as comfortable as they are practical. 

Cashmere Short Cardigan

A 100 percent cashmere sweater under $200 is hard to come by, which makes this one a true gem. Crafted from ultra-soft genuine cashmere, this slightly cropped cardigan (it sits just right on top of hips) delivers everyday warmth with an elevated feel. The modern, flattering fit layers effortlessly over any outfit, and its rich color (I have it in a deep wine red) pairs beautifully with everything in my suitcase. It’s both delicate and durable, hand-washable and is a classic staple that brings a touch of quiet luxury to every trip.

HeatTech T-shirt

Uniqlo is famed for its HeatTech collection, which features innovative thermal technology in everyday basics to keep you warm. This long-sleeve tee looks like just a regular shirt to the naked eye (and wears like one), but it actually converts body moisture into heat, giving you lightweight warmth without the need to wear multiple bulky layers. It’s a must for layering under sweaters when temperatures hit well below freezing. Simply put, it’s a versatile piece for cold-weather comfort. 

Souffle Yarn Sweater

This aptly named sweater is soft, airy, and incredibly cozy. It’s a true everyday essential come fall and winter when you want to layer up. The lightweight texture gives it a plush feel without any of the itchiness, while the relaxed ribbed cuffs and hem give it that casual look. I layer mine with a T-shirt for travel days and keep various bottoms (jeans, skirts, hemmed pants) in my bag for versatile travel looks. 

Wide Sweatpants

A pair of sweatpants is a travel wardrobe no-brainer. (I relish the opportunities to lounge in my hotel room). These particular pants are fleece-lined for extra warmth and softness, and the elastic band with an inner drawstring gives them a secure, adjustable fit. Plus, the wide-leg silhouette gives them a relaxed look that you’ll want to stay home just to lounge around in (but they’re also nice for casual outings with a pair of plush winter boots and a puffer coat). 

Pufftech Parka

If you’re looking for a winter parka, this is the one. Each PuffTech Parka is crafted with hollow fibers that trap heat in to keep you warm and a double-weave fabric with a water-repellent finish that blocks wind and rain. It’s highly practical, yes, but it also has a rounded hem with a drop shoulder design that creates a relaxed, easy-to-style silhouette. It’s the exact kind of piece that exhibits exactly what Uniqlo tries to do: give shoppers practical and stylish clothing that looks as good as it feels to wear. 

Multi-pocket Shoulder Bag

I’m going on year two with this roomy shoulder bag, and I couldn’t be happier with it. It doubles as a crossbody and is large enough to fit my laptop and all my other important personal items (passport, wallet, keys), making it my go-to for keeping all of my things organized. And with plenty of room for souvenirs, it’s my bag-of-choice for wandering around new towns so I can fill it with travel-day knick-knacks. 

Skinny Dress Belt

This belt is the quiet workhorse of my travel wardrobe. Simple yet endlessly versatile, it adds just the right touch to any outfit. Whether cinched over a dress for shape or paired with jeans, it’s the practical accessory I always reach for. Plus, it’s made from 100 percent genuine leather, which means it’s built to last for the long haul. 

HeatTech Scarf

Scarves are timeless, but right now, they’re also a statement piece. This HeatTech scarf keeps you extra warm while adding effortless style to any outfit. I keep it in my bag for days when daytime temperatures are mild, but nights get pretty chilly. It’s the ideal size and its plush feel and style make it versatile for draping, wrapping, and layering.

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