The Best Blanket Scarves to Have With You at 30,000 Feet
One of the most significant lessons frequent travelers learn is the importance of packing only what you need. Ask any seasoned, globe-trotting journalist or flight attendant when they last checked a bag on a flight and they’ll probably have trouble remembering.
To that end, we also know the importance of packing items that serve double-duty. One of my favorite packing list hacks is bringing a scarf or wrap that doubles as a blanket while I’m traveling. While this sort of accessory may be de rigueur during the colder months, we’ve all been witness to when plane temperatures dip into Arctic Circle range (and the airlines' little felt squares don’t do much to mitigate the cold).
Enter: A super soft, oversized wrap. Not only will you feel a little chicer as you stroll through the airport, you’ll be toasty for the duration of the flight, and might just get some shut-eye. From cashmere scarves to chunky knit wraps, read on for 11 blanket scarves worth adding to your travel uniform.
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
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White + Warren cashmere travel wrap
Best cashmere scarf
Cashmere fanatics are likely familiar with White + Warren, a brand known for its impossibly soft sweaters, hats, and scarves. But the cashmere travel wrap may be the ultimate buy: It’s made from a lightweight and breathable cashmere that drapes beautifully, but still offers warmth when you’re bundled up in your seat. It comes in either a rich black or muted gray, meaning it’ll go well with anything in your suitcase.
Quince Mongolian cashmere wrap
Best affordable cashmere
We love Quince for its high-quality cashmere products at affordable prices. This wrap is one of our favorite pieces from the brand: It’s made from ultra-soft Mongolian cashmere, comes in a range of lovely neutral colors, and is only $100. To take your plane outfit to the next level, pair it with a matching cashmere tee.
Naadam cashmino plaid scarf with pockets
Zestt Organics The Dreamsoft Travel Scarf
Best multi-colored scarf
This brand’s bestseller is this GOTS-certified organic cotton wrap, which looks as good draped over a little black dress as it does with a coordinating sweatsuit. We love the four color-blocked varieties, ranging from a peppy blush to a cheery sky blue, to add a bit of color to your plane wardrobe.
J.Crew oversized cashmere wrap
Best solid color
A cashmere wrap that’s under $200 and sustainable? J.Crew’s cozy wrap, which comes in a range of colors from classic red to utility green, hits both notes, as it's made from cashmere that’s sourced responsibly. (The company is the first US partner of Aid by Trade Foundation, a nonprofit that promotes sustainable agricultural development around the world.)
Bleusalt The 2 Yard Wrap
Best long scarf
As the name implies, this wrap is a generous piece of fabric that’s 44-inches wide by 72-inches long. The material is a sleek mix of 95 percent Tencel Modal and five percent Spandex; the stretch is key for allowing it to drape just so over your shoulders. We love that it comes in a full rainbow of colors, from a cherry red that can go straight from the jetway to a fancy dinner, to a muted sand that would pair well with virtually any other shade. Plus, it’s fully machine washable and can go in the dryer without shrinking.
Burberry reversible check wool cape
Best splurge
Quiet luxury this is not. The iconic Burberry check is recognizable from across the terminal—but if you’re looking for a voluminous, soft, and classic wrap, you can’t do much better than pieces from this storied English brand. Plus, because it’s reversible, it’s kind of like buying two pieces in one, right?
Tartan Blanket Co. Lambswool blanket scarf
Best wool scarf
Houndstooth is a perennially chic print that can coordinate with almost everything. We especially adore Tbco.’s oversized scarf in the style, which comes in colorways of camel, berry, and slate. And because it’s made of lambswool (fibers gathered from a lamb’s first shearing), it’s smoother and stronger than any other type of wool, as well as being naturally moisture-repellent and heat-retaining.
Frank and Eileen Aude travel scarf
Best jersey scarf
If you’re looking for something a little more lightweight than a cashmere or a wool, jersey is an excellent alternative. Not only does it drape elegantly, but the material’s stretchiness is also useful for wrapping yourself up on a chilly plane. We love that Frank & Eileen’s version is 90-inches long, which gives you plenty of fabric to work with.
Partaje Stripe Double cashmere scarf
Best ultra-soft scarf
If you’re looking to inject color into your plane outfit, we love Partaje’s extra-wide, striped scarf. The piece is made from 100 percent cashmere that was crafted on traditional looms in England. If it feels extra-soft even for cashmere, your fingers are not mistaken: Each oversized scarf is hand-brushed as a final touch. And if you’re extra cold on (or off) the plane, there’s a matching beanie calling your name.
