Nothing quite says "bucket list" like a cruise to Africa.
07.08.2024 - 18:38 / cntraveler.com / Charlie Hobbs / Hannah Towey
For some travelers, rest and relaxation is a must on vacation. That might mean unplugging from work and hitting the spa for a deep tissue massage, or connecting the mind and body through physical activities. In the latter case, having a cushioned and portable travel yoga mat will come in handy for early morning hot yoga or post-flight stretching sessions.
Associate editor Hannah Towey testing out yoga mats in Norwalk, Connecticut
However, the yoga mats we use at home can be a bit bulky and tend to take up too much space in our luggage. We set out to find the best travel yoga mats—ones that are able to fit into everything from tote bags to checked luggage.
To narrow down the list, our editors tried everything from from strength training to H.I.I.T exercises to traditional yoga classes to see how the mats would fair. We found the best travel mats are lightweight, foldable, easy to clean, and don’t forgo comfort just to compensate for space. (Keep in mind that lightweight mats do tend to have a thinner build, so an additional mat or towel can add more support for those who need extra cushion.) The ideal travel mat should also be able to grip onto a multitude of surfaces so you can feel stable and balanced with each quick movement. With that criteria in mind, here are eight lightweight travel mats our editors recommend for yogis on the go.
This mat is laser thin, but doesn’t feel bad on the knees. The cushion is supportive enough to do light workouts on. The slimness is the selling point, it makes the mat one of the lightest on the markets and easy enough to pack in a tote bag or duffel comfortably. Truthfully, it was so easy to travel with I didn’t even need to bring it in a tote, but needed one to carry my book. After a session of hot yoga I was definitely slipping and sliding, but that’s just because of the nature of the workout. —Charlie Hobbs, associate editor
Weight: 1.5 pounds
Thickness: 1.5 mm
What could be improved: No complaints—it's the best travel yoga mat I've tried!
This is a travel-friendly version of Alo’s popular Warrior Mat. The grip is fantastic, even in a hot yoga class. I prefer this mat for standing poses, quicker-paced vinyasa classes, or pilates mat workouts. I’ve also used it during 90-minute Hatha yoga classes, which require holding poses for longer periods of time. It’s easily packable for air travel—I’ll be taking it with me on my next flight. Plus, the all black design is super sleek. —Hannah Towey, associate editor, transportation and travel news
Weight: 3.5 pounds
Thickness: 2 mm
What could be improved: It’s slightly too thin for comfortable headstands and can be tough on the knees. I suggest doubling up the mat underneath you when holding longer poses.
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Nothing quite says "bucket list" like a cruise to Africa.
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