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Airism: Moisture-Wicking, Compressible Base Layers for Every Trip

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, December 3rd 2025 at 1:23 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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Travel + Leisure’s Guide to Uniqlo’s Travel Essentials – What You Need to Pack for Your Next Trip

When the holiday season rolls around, or when a business trip is just around the corner, most travelers find themselves at a crossroads: What gear should I bring that will stay comfortable, be lightweight, and fit neatly into a small suitcase? Travel + Leisure turned to Uniqlo, the Japanese retailer known for its minimalist designs and functional textiles, and asked a writer to highlight the brand’s most travel‑friendly pieces. The result is a practical, price‑conscious “must‑have” list that covers everything from base layers to outerwear, plus a few surprisingly useful accessories.

Below is a comprehensive recap of the article’s key take‑aways, broken down by category, with added context drawn from the links the writer followed in the original piece.

1. The Core of the Collection: Airism

Uniqlo’s Airism line is the cornerstone of its travel gear. Airism is a proprietary fabric engineered for breathability, moisture‑wicking, and ultra‑lightweight comfort. The article stresses that Airism t‑shirts and undershirts are perfect as layering pieces for flights, especially in the unpredictable climate of airport lounges or overnight hotel stays.

Why Airism?
- Moisture management: It pulls sweat away from the skin, leaving you dry even after a long day of travel.
- Compression: The fabric can be folded into a small pouch, making it ideal for carry‑on luggage.
- Versatility: Available in neutral colors and subtle patterns, Airism tops can be worn alone or as a base layer under a jacket.

The writer recommends the Airism Long‑Sleeve T‑shirt for cooler climates and the Airism Short‑Sleeve T‑shirt for the majority of destinations. The article links to Uniqlo’s Airism section, where readers can explore color options and price points (typically $20–$30 per shirt).

2. The Outer Layer: Ultra‑Light Down & BlockTech

When temperatures dip or the wind picks up, the Ultra‑Light Down Jacket and BlockTech jacket become indispensable.

• Ultra‑Light Down Jacket: The article highlights this jacket’s compressibility (packs into its own pocket) and its breathable, wind‑proof shell. It can be worn in a wide range of temperatures—from a cool summer night in Tokyo to a chilly morning on a European train. The price range is usually $80–$100, making it a mid‑tier option for budget travelers.

• BlockTech Jacket: For those who anticipate rain or unpredictable weather, the BlockTech jacket offers water‑resistant protection without the bulk of a full‑size raincoat. Its sleek silhouette and removable hood add to its appeal. The article provides a link to Uniqlo’s BlockTech page, where readers can see its various color offerings and learn about the technology that keeps you dry.

Both jackets are praised for their “easy‑on, easy‑off” quality—no zippers that snag on suitcases, no heavy buttons that add unnecessary weight.

3. The Hybrid Hoodie: ELYSION

Uniqlo’s ELYSION line is a lightweight hoodie that blends the softness of fleece with the sleekness of wind‑proof outerwear. The article points out that ELYSION can be worn as a casual layer in hotels or as an extra insulating layer when temperatures dip on a night flight. Its “compressible” nature means it can be rolled into a small pouch without losing shape.

The writer specifically recommends the ELYSION Long‑Sleeve hoodie in a neutral shade (black, navy, or gray). The price sits around $30–$40, a sweet spot for travelers who want a versatile, packable garment.

4. Socks and Bottoms

The article doesn’t stop at tops; it dives into the importance of footwear and base layers. Uniqlo’s Ultra‑Light Socks are designed with anti‑scuff technology and a snug fit that prevents blisters on long train rides or hiking excursions. They’re available in “Men’s” and “Women’s” sizes, and the article notes that they can be folded into a pocket with no bulk.

For pants, the writer recommends Uniqlo’s AIRism Trousers and the Ultra‑Light Stretch Trousers. These options offer comfort, quick‑dry properties, and a slim cut that works well in both business meetings and casual settings.

5. Accessories That Make a Difference

While Uniqlo’s primary focus is on clothing, the article highlights a few key accessories that can elevate a travel wardrobe:

• Travel Bag: The article links to a recommended “Pack‑Smart” tote bag—compact yet roomy enough to hold a set of clothes and a toiletry kit.
• Travel‑Friendly Shoes: Uniqlo’s “Easy‑Slip” sneakers are lightweight, breathable, and easy to take on planes. They’re an ideal option for those who want comfortable footwear without sacrificing style.
• Tote or Backpack: A neutral‑colored tote with a zip closure ensures secure storage for passports and boarding passes.

6. Pricing and Value

A recurring theme in the article is Uniqlo’s value proposition. The writer underscores that while some items, like the Ultra‑Light Down Jacket, sit on the higher side of the price spectrum, the overall cost of a complete travel set is still lower than comparable offerings from luxury brands. The emphasis is on “smart spending”: choose pieces that serve multiple functions (e.g., a hood that works as a jacket and as a layer) to reduce the number of items you need to pack.

7. How the Author Built the List

The writer built the list through a mix of personal experience and research. They noted that Uniqlo’s fabric technology (Airism, Ultra‑Light, BlockTech) is widely praised in textile forums and fashion tech reviews, which the article references via links to external sources. The author also tried each item on different trips—one for a 12‑hour flight, another for a week‑long train adventure—to test durability, compressibility, and comfort.

TL;DR

• Airism Base Layers: Moisture‑wicking, lightweight t‑shirts for layering or as standalone tops.
• Ultra‑Light Down Jacket: Packable, breathable, mid‑tier price.
• BlockTech Jacket: Water‑resistant, wind‑proof, slim fit.
• ELYSION Hoodie: Hybrid fleece‑windproof, ultra‑compact.
• Socks & Pants: Anti‑scuff socks; AIRism/Ultra‑Light trousers for quick‑dry comfort.
• Accessories: Slip‑on sneakers, secure tote, and a travel backpack for all essentials.

Travel + Leisure’s article is a quick‑read but thorough guide for anyone looking to optimize luggage space without sacrificing comfort. The writer’s picks are grounded in Uniqlo’s hallmark fabric technologies, proven in the field, and affordable enough to make a multi‑piece travel wardrobe a reality for most budgets. If you’re planning a trip and want to pack less but travel more comfortably, these items are worth a look.