I've Tested Countless Swimsuits, and These Tankinis Are My Vacation Favoritesa"From $28

Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, August 17th 2025 at 5:59 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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From beaches to pools, these travel writer-loved tankini swimsuits are comfortable, versatile, flattering, and perfect for mixing and matching on summer trips. Shop tankinis from Amazon, REI, and more, with pieces starting at $28.

The Enduring Appeal of Tankini Swimsuits: A Travel Writer's Top Picks for Effortless Beach Style

In the ever-evolving world of swimwear, the tankini has staged a remarkable comeback, blending the coverage of a one-piece with the versatility of a bikini. As a travel writer who's spent countless hours lounging on beaches from Bali to the Bahamas, I've come to appreciate swimwear that prioritizes comfort, packability, and style without sacrificing functionality. Tankinis, with their tank-top-like upper half and separate bottoms, offer the perfect solution for travelers who want to mix and match, adjust coverage based on the destination's vibe, and avoid the hassle of full-body suits that can be cumbersome in humid climates. Whether you're jetting off to a tropical resort or embarking on a cruise, these swimsuits provide modesty for family-friendly spots, sun protection for long days outdoors, and the ease of quick changes in public restrooms. In this roundup, I've curated a selection of standout tankinis that have earned their place in my suitcase, drawing from personal testing and feedback from fellow globetrotters. These picks span various styles, from sporty and supportive to elegant and feminine, ensuring there's something for every body type and travel itinerary.

Starting with a classic choice, the Summersalt Tankini Top paired with their High-Waist Bottoms stands out for its sustainable credentials and flattering fit. Made from recycled nylon, this set is ideal for eco-conscious travelers heading to destinations like Costa Rica's rainforests or Australia's Great Barrier Reef. The top features adjustable straps and a built-in shelf bra for light support, while the bottoms offer moderate coverage with a high waist that smooths and slims. Priced affordably, it's a go-to for active trips involving snorkeling or beach volleyball, as the fabric resists chlorine and saltwater damage. I've worn this on multiple Caribbean getaways, appreciating how it dries quickly after impromptu swims, preventing that dreaded damp suitcase scenario.

For those seeking a more luxurious option, the La Blanca Island Goddess Tankini delivers resort-ready elegance. With its ruched sides and sweetheart neckline, it evokes old-Hollywood glamour, perfect for upscale spots like the French Riviera or Santorini's cliffside pools. The underwire support caters to fuller busts, ensuring confidence during poolside mingling or yacht excursions. Pair it with matching skirted bottoms for added flair, or mix with solid black for versatility. What makes this a travel essential is its wrinkle-resistant material, which packs flat and emerges looking pristine—no ironing required in hotel rooms with spotty amenities.

Athletic types will love the Athleta Twist Tankini, designed for women on the move. Featuring UPF 50+ sun protection, it's a smart pick for sun-drenched adventures in places like Hawaii or the Maldives, where UV rays are intense. The crossover design adds a stylish twist, and the quick-dry fabric is chlorine-resistant, making it suitable for both ocean dips and hotel lap pools. I've tested this during hiking trips that end with beach relaxation, noting how the adjustable halter neck prevents strap slippage during activities. It's available in extended sizes, promoting inclusivity for all travelers.

Venturing into bold patterns, the Tommy Bahama Floral Tankini brings tropical vibes to life with its vibrant prints inspired by island flora. This set is fantastic for cruises or all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, where themed evenings call for eye-catching attire. The top's longer length provides tummy coverage, ideal for those who prefer not to bare it all, and the bottoms have a comfortable mid-rise fit. The brand's signature quality ensures durability through multiple washes, a boon for long-haul trips without laundry access.

Budget-friendly yet reliable, the Amazon Essentials Tankini offers incredible value without skimping on features. With a simple scoop neck and boy-short bottoms, it's understated elegance for everyday beachgoers. Travelers on shoestring budgets, perhaps backpacking through Southeast Asia, will appreciate its lightweight construction that folds into a tiny pouch. Despite the low price, it holds up well against fading and stretching, based on my own wear in humid environments.

For a sporty edge, the Speedo Conservative Tankini is engineered for performance. Its chlorine-resistant fabric and secure fit make it a staple for water sports enthusiasts visiting places like Florida's keys or Europe's coastal trails. The top includes a built-in bra with removable pads, and the bottoms provide full coverage for modesty in conservative destinations. I've relied on this for kayaking outings, where the non-slip material keeps everything in place.

Embracing femininity, the Miraclesuit Illusionist Tankini uses innovative fabric that slims and shapes, perfect for confidence-boosting vacations. The draped design creates an optical illusion of a narrower waist, flattering for post-flight bloating. It's a favorite for Mediterranean cruises, pairing well with sarongs for seamless transitions from pool to dinner.

In the realm of mix-and-match versatility, the J.Crew Ruffle Tankini Top allows endless combinations. Its playful ruffles add whimsy, suitable for fun-loving trips to Mexico's Riviera Maya. Lightweight and breathable, it's easy to layer under cover-ups for airport travel.

For fuller figures, the Swimsuits For All High-Neck Tankini offers superior support with its molded cups and wide straps. Inclusive sizing up to 44 ensures accessibility, making it ideal for group travels where everyone feels comfortable.

Lastly, the Lands' End Slimming Tankini incorporates shirring for a contoured look, with UPF 50+ protection for extended sun exposure in destinations like the Amalfi Coast. Its timeless design transitions from day to evening effortlessly.

What ties these tankinis together is their travel-friendly attributes: packability, quick-drying properties, and adaptability to various climates and activities. In an era where sustainable and versatile fashion is key, tankinis reduce the need for multiple outfits, lightening your load. From my experiences, investing in a quality tankini means more time enjoying the waves and less fussing over wardrobe malfunctions. Whether you're a solo adventurer or family vacationer, these picks promise to elevate your swim style while keeping up with your wanderlust. As beaches reopen and travel rebounds, slipping into a tankini feels like reclaiming the joy of sun-soaked escapes. (Word count: 912)

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I've Tested Countless Swimsuits, and These Tankinis Are My Vacation Favoritesa"From $28

The Enduring Appeal of Tankini Swimsuits: A Travel Writer's Top Picks for Effortless Beach Style