Umbrellas are like health insurance- we all hate the hassle of getting one and carrying it around, but if the time does come by, we’re glad we were prepared.
This can't be farther from the truth, especially when traveling.
See, traveling promises new experiences; most of the time, they're unexpected, but that's part of the traveling fun.
When you visit new places, you're likely to meet new people, encounter new things, and adjust to the weather temperatures.
Everyone is different, and they handle new social situations differently.
But when it comes to weather changes, we can all agree having an umbrella is essential.
But not all umbrellas are suited for travel.
If you’re a travel enthusiast, then consider a travel umbrella.
In contrast to the conventional umbrellas, a travel umbrella is economical on space since it can fold up, allowing for an easy fit into your bag, carry case, or even glove compartment.
Travel umbrellas are also quite lightweight, meaning they won’t bog you down.
They’re a more convenient and discreet option that ensures you don’t get to experience the misfortune of getting caught up in a storm while on the go.
But with so many options in the market, it can feel a bit overwhelming to choose the best travel umbrella for your needs.
Fortunately, we’ve compiled a detailed guide outlining all the best travel umbrella options in the market.
Quick Comparison Table & Our Pick
Product | Arc | Rib Canopy | Open Mecha-nism | Weight | Length | BUY NOW |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
42” | 9 | Auto | <1 pound |
| ||
42” | 9 | Auto | <1 pound | 12” | ||
LifeTek Windproof Travel Umbrella | 42” | 9 | Auto | 1.05 pounds | 11.5” | |
Other Great Recommendations | ||||||
42” | 9 | Auto | 1 pound | 11” | ||
46” | 10 | Auto | 1 pound | 13” | ||
35” | 6 | No | 7.4 ounces | 7” | ||
38” | 8 | Yes | Cell | 11” | ||
Best Top 5 Travel Umbrellas in the Market for the Money
Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella - Editor’s Choice
Topping our list of the best travel umbrellas is the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella.
It’s a uniquely designed umbrella, boasting nine ribs, defying even the strongest of the winds.
The fiberglass ribs are also quite heavy-duty and will prevent the umbrella from flipping during the windy conditions.
But is the model, alongside its features, the right option for you?
Features and Benefits
Teflon Technology
Repel is aptly named a waterproof umbrella because it employs Teflon technology for its water repellency.
The canopy on this umbrella is fully waterproof, repels water and other elements, while at the same time allowing it to dry super-quick.
Besides water repellency, the canopy pops out to a generous 42 inches, providing sufficient head coverage for you.
Three-Fold Design
The durable frame has a three-fold design, allowing the umbrella to fold to a compact size.
When folded, it downsizes to a mere 11.4 inches and weighs 15 ounces, making it quite convenient to fit in your bag, purse, or even glove compartment.
Automatic Open and Close Function
The automatic opening and closing mechanism will put to an end to the pinching of hands when getting this umbrella ready.
The automatic system also makes this umbrella a suitable option for seniors as it doesn't require a lot of upper body strength or dexterity to open.
Instead, you simply need to push a button on the rubberized and ergonomic handle, and the canopy either opens or closes in a split second.
Ribs
The Repel Umbrella is differentiated from other compact umbrellas that feature 6 or 8 ribs, often made of inferior aluminum.
This option, on the other hand, comes with up to 9 resin-reinforced fiberglass ribs that are more durable and capable of withstanding the powerful gusts that can break many umbrellas.
It’s a premium quality construction that lets this umbrella endure extreme weathers efficiently without flipping inside out.
Slip-Proof Handle
The rubberized handle on the umbrella offers a great grip, ensuring the umbrella won't slip from your hands even when wet.
It also incorporates a travel sleeve and a wrist wrap for easy carrying, both of which underline its usability as a travel umbrella.
Pros
- Solid construction
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Automatic open and close system
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Accessible in color black only
Check Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella Price on Amazon
Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella - Most Compact Travel Umbrella
Rain mate is a reliable brand, renowned for manufacturing superior designs and high-quality protection.
And today, we shall look at one of their popular offerings; the Rain-Mate Compact.
As its name suggests, this umbrella is a great option for those in search of a compact and lightweight umbrella.
The umbrella is also quite durable, and may even last for several years.
Features and Benefits
Compact Size
The Rain-Mate umbrella is built for compactness.
It features a 3-fold telescopic shaft that can collapse to a 12” umbrella.
It means it’s easy to stash the umbrella into a backpack, purse, or luggage.
Fail-safe Flip Technology
The Rain-Mate is equipped with fiberglass within the frame, and so, when there's the wind, the 42-inch canopy inverts and bends without breaking.
At the same time, the canopy is designed with nine reinforced ribs and an all-metal shaft for strength and ability to withstand strong winds.
Weather-Resistant Design
Like the Repel Umbrella, we had reviewed above; the Rain-Mate also features nine fiberglass ribs for durability.
The strength on this umbrella is further reinforced by a durable frame and a metal shaft that makes the umbrella capable of resisting the attack of severe weather conditions such as storms and even snow.
Durable Fail-Safe Flip
The fail-safe technology strengthens the performance of the Rain-Mate by ensuring the hinges on the ribs turn upside down but stop from breaking or bending.
Automatic Closing and Opening Mechanism
If you’ve always wanted to operate your umbrella fast and easy, you’ll love the one-touch button on the Rain-Mate.
The automatic system lets you open and closes the umbrella with the snap of a button.
Multiple color variants
I know colors don’t matter a lot when selecting an umbrella, but this umbrella gives you the choice of picking from several color options.
Unlike the Repel umbrella, where you’re only limited to black, this umbrella gives you selection options.
Pros
- Solid construction
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Automatic opening and closing system
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
Cons
- The metal shaft isn't corrosion-resistant
Check Rain-Mate Compact Travel Umbrella Price on Amazon
LifeTek Windproof Travel Umbrella - Perfect Gift Umbrella
If you've been wondering about the perfect gift for your loved one or parent, the LifeTek Umbrella can prove to be quite an inspiring gift option.
It's not only appealing but also quite functional and will keep your loved ones away from the storm.
But how does it hold up?
Features and Benefits
Durable
To begin with, the LifeTek Umbrella is built with a micro-weave 210T thread count fabric with Teflon coating.
The fabric is not only high quality, but it has numerous repellency features.
It's the ultimate shield since it keeps you protected from the sunlight, wind, or even water.
Resin Ribs
Like all the previously reviewed travel umbrellas, this model has a 42-inch sturdy frame, forming the nine large tri-folded ribs.
The ribs are not only heavy-duty, but they're also strong enough to withstand the powerful gusts of wind.
Three-Fold Design
LifeTek umbrella is built for compactness, which underlines its suitability as an ideal travel option.
The three-fold design, for instance, allows the umbrella to fold down to a small travel size, essential for you to stash it in your bag or luggage conveniently.
When folded, it downsizes up to 15.5 inches and weighs a measly 15 ounces.
Automatic Open and Close
The ease of use when opening and closing an umbrella is always of the essence.
With this option, you can say goodbye to having to struggle with the umbrella when elements surprise you.
It’s possible to operate the umbrella with a single hand and deploy the canopy with the single push of a button.
At the same time, you can use the same button to snap the canopy to close the umbrella. Clever.
Color Options
To make the selection process a lot easier, this model comes with four color variants.
Either way, it’s easy to find a color option suiting your needs.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Survives the high wind
- Smooth opening and closing system
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- A little expensive, especially for the quality
Check LifeTek Windproof Travel Umbrella Price on Amazon
EEZ-Y Windproof Travel Umbrella - Best Double Canopy Umbrella
EEZ-Y Windproof Travel Umbrella is built with durability and stability in mind.
Notably, the double canopy feature helps to protect users from extreme wind, heat, and rain.
Ad typical of the best travel umbrellas, it’s lightweight and compact, the perfect option for the frequent travelers, and the outdoor enthusiasts.
Features and Benefits
Construction
EEZ-Y compact umbrella boasts of a double-vented canopy construction that offers incredible resistance to gusts of up to 55 mph.
The canopy design allows the wind to go over the vents with ease and stops the umbrella from inverting, even when it meets strong winds.
Fabric
The 210T material used in the construction of the EEZ-Y compact umbrella is water repellent and won’t allow water to seep through.
Instead, it encourages the water drops to roll over to the ground, and this way, it’s hard for your umbrella to become damp or even risk growing mildew.
Frame Systems
The frame system for this umbrella is distinctly built with a tempered metal shaft alongside nine reinforced ribs that makes the umbrella quite tough than its competition,
Both the frame and the ribs are built from stainless steel material, and as such, you don’t have to worry about them breaking or rusting.
Pros
- Can withstand winds at 55 mph
- Easy to use
- Compact
- Portable
Cons
- Might be a tad small for the big people
Check EEZ-Y Windproof Travel Umbrella Price on Amazon
Bodyguard Inverted Windproof Travel Umbrella - Best Inverted Design Travel Umbrella
The BodyGuard Inverted Travel Umbrella is not your regular type of umbrella, but rather a heavy-duty option.
It is built for heavy-duty applications and is rugged enough to withstand the most livid weather conditions.
Features and Benefits
Inverted Design
Compared to other regular travel umbrellas, the inverter design on this model has numerous benefits, including easing the process of getting into your car.
It hides the wet surface and prevents water from flowing downwards, so you’re assured of not getting drenched.
Large Canopy Diameter
BodyGuard Inverted Travel Umbrella has the largest canopy diameter on our list.
The inverted canopy design is quite large and capable of covering up to two people, so it'll guarantee keeping you dry even on the rainy days.
Reliable Construction
While many of the travel umbrellas on our list are built for strength and durability, this model gives reliability to a new meaning.
For starters, it boasts of 10 flexible and long-lasting ribs that prevent the umbrella from inverting even during the strongest gusts.
Water Repellant
The sturdiness of the umbrella is further underlined by the wide 46” high-density canopy coated with Teflon.
The Teflon enhances the water repellency of this umbrella and ensures that no water leaks inside, but rather rolls.
Strong Frame
The frame system on this umbrella is equally quite robust and doesn’t skimp on performance.
The steel frame is heavy-duty and doesn't easily bend even during the strong winds.
The handle part of the frame is also built for performance, with the rubberization offering a steady grip of the umbrella.
Foldable
Foldability is not the best feature of this model, but you can still compress the umbrella to a neat 12.6-inch package.
It’s still a modest length and one that you can easily stash into your backpack.
Opening and Closing Mechanism
Finally, the opening and closing of the umbrella is a cinch because the entire system is automated.
To do either, you simply need to push the button on the handle, and viola.
Pros
- Handy inverted design
- Foldable
- Large canopy, sufficient for two people
- Can be compressed
Cons
- Not quite compact
Check Bodyguard Inverted Windproof Travel Umbrella Price on Amazon
Vumos Umbrella - Smallest Umbrella.
The Vumo is quite a small umbrella, and probably the smallest on our list.
But as they say, good things can come in small packages.
Features and Benefits
Mini-Umbrella
The Vumo is a great option for kids or even adults who want to carry their umbrella in a small purse or even in their large coat pockets.
When folded, this umbrella downsizes to seven inches in inches, while weighing just a bit over 7 ounces.
Canopy
For a minuscule umbrella, you shouldn't expect a lot.
If anything, there’s a price to pay for the compactness, and that is the lean canopy diameter.
The canopy of Vumos is only 35 inches. While it’s a great option for the light showers, it isn't going to protect you in a downpour adequately.
Durability
N the bright side, the umbrella is quite durable and is going to serve you for a long time.
It’s also quite waterproof, meaning it won’t allow water to get to you. It also has a quick-dry element, so it dries pretty fast and won’t get damp.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Ultra-compact
- Ideal for kids
Cons
- Not the most pragmatic option
Check Vumos Umbrella Price on Amazon
Lewis N. Clark Auto Open Close Compact Travel Umbrella - Lightweight Option
Our last option is yet another lightweight and portable option.
It's not the most robust option, but if you're looking for convenience, then you're going to like the size and weight of this travel umbrella.
Features and Benefits
Compact
As we had earlier mentioned, the Lewis Umbrella is built for convenience.
It's a compact model, one that can easily fit into your pocket or bag and will take the least space.
Performance
Unfortunately, this umbrella is not built for the tough weather.
Like the Vumos Umbrella, this option will do quite little to protect you against the heavy downpour.
The umbrella is designed to cater to the light showers as well as the breezy days.
Generous Canopy Size
For the right conditions, however, the umbrellas’ performance is simply impressive.
To begin with, the canopy measures 42 inches, and while it's a standard, it offers sufficient head and torso protection.
The frame system, including the support frame and the 8 ribs, are solidly constructed to provide you with a sturdy umbrella.
The frame is equally durable, and it’s going to last you for a long time to come.
Automatic System
The opening and closing of this model is a breeze, thanks to the automatic open and closing mechanism.
With a simple push of a button, it’s easy either open or closes the umbrella with a snap.
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Compact
- Ergonomic and contoured handle
- Automated opening and closing
Cons
- Not suited for heavy weather
Check Lewis N. Clark Auto Open Close Compact Price on Amazon
Best Travel Umbrella Buying Guide
When choosing a travel umbrella, you want to make sure your new umbrella will shield you from the rain.
It should also be compact enough for a perfect fit into your carry bag.
Also, ensure its lightweight and of good quality.
Here’s a breakdown of things to look in a good quality umbrella for travel.
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Travel Umbrella
Canopy
The first element to consider on a travel umbrella is the canopy, or rather the shield that protects you from the showers and rains.
There’re numerous elements to consider regarding the canopy, and they include:
Layers
Most of the travel umbrellas have a single or double canopy.
A single canopy is just that- a single layer of fabric.
A double canopy has two layers of fabric that act as a wind funnel to prevent your umbrella from inverting.
A double layer canopy is a superior option than a single layer option because it adds more bulk, and though a tad expensive, it might be quite worth in high-wind conditions.
Fabric
Pretty colors and designs are always a bonus, but at the end of the day, you want a fabric that is lightweight, durable, and, of course, waterproof.
Teflon is the most common fabric for travel umbrellas, and it particularly excels at waterproofing.
Rather than absorbing water, it helps the water to quickly bead and roll right down the canopy.
The waterproof properties also help the fabric to dry quickly and prevent instances of dampness and mildew growth.
Rating
Umbrella canopies normally have number/letter combos listed onto them, such as 210T.
The numbers are ratings, and they represent the thread count and density of the fabric.
In general, the higher the thread count, the higher the density and more protection an umbrella canopy will protect against elements.
Canopy Size
It turns out that a 37-40 inch diameter canopy is just the perfect diameter for keeping your head and torso dry without adding too much bulk to the total package.
While a larger diameter might accommodate up to two people, understand that regardless of the size, no umbrella will keep you dry from head to toe, especially if there’s a breeze.
The blowing rain and splatter your heels kick up will eventually wet your pants cuff.
So, it's always a good idea to think of a travel umbrella as handy protection for your hairdo and upper torso.
Compact
At the same time, and travel umbrella should be compact, lightweight, and easy to put in your purse or suitcase.
Even better, it should be foldable, allowing for greater portability.
Weight
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you know that every ounce counts, and that excess weight can drastically slow you down and wear you out.
Heavy travel umbrellas can make your bag feel heavy and inconvenience you during your entire vacation.
So, yes, it’s always a good idea to choose an umbrella with the least weight.
Sun Resistance
Prolonged sun exposure can degrade your umbrella’s waterproofing.
This can even become a more concerning issue, especially if you hope to find an umbrella that doubles up as a sunshade on the hotter day.
So, it's always a good idea to consider your umbrella's ability to protect you not only against the rain but also sun rays.
Design
Travel umbrellas are built differently.
However, a common thread between them all is the ribbed canopy with reinforcement that gives the umbrella structure and flexibility.
Generally, most of the compact umbrellas have 6 to 8 ribs, though the more they are, the more durable and resistant the umbrella is to high winds and breakage.
Ease of Use
The ease of use is mostly dependent on the opening mechanism.
The best travel umbrellas have an auto system that allows you to open or close the umbrella with the press of a button on the handle.
Conclusion
Travel umbrellas come in different shapes and sizes.
Your choice of umbrella will depend on your shielding needs, and probably your budget.
The good news is, the selection process is now quite easier since you already have a list of the best travel umbrellas in the market.
Editor Notes:
Are travel umbrellas worth it?
Travel umbrellas come through when the weather conditions turn abruptly. Since they are lightweight, you'll find them easy to carry alongside you as you travel. These umbrellas are high quality to last longer and hence worth your investment.
Are travel umbrellas easy to use?
The umbrellas have a button that you press to open them and fold smoothly after use for storage. Always check the umbrella to ensure the button is working. Additionally, check the guide in the package on how to use the umbrella.
Do the travel umbrellas come with a warranty?
Yes, most of the umbrellas have warranties. The best travel umbrellas have a lifetime warranty which explains the good quality. Check the warranty information to ensure you have the best warranty terms.
Why should I go for a small-size travel umbrella?
Small-sized umbrellas are good for air travel. You can stick them in the bag and move. The small-sized types can go through narrow corridors, which means you'll use them in a diversity of places.
Current Best Selling Travel Umbrellas!
