Whether you are a yogi traveling the world or simply new to the practice of yoga and like to stay fit on the road, a good travel yoga mat can be invaluable. That's why I've compiled a list of the 10+ best travel yoga mats for 2024. From lightweight and compact designs to extra cushioning and grip, these mats are sure to enhance your practice no matter where your travels take you.
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Just because I’m away traveling doesn’t mean I have to stop doing yoga, and this is where the best travel yoga mat comes in handy! With it, I can keep my practice consistent, whether I’m in a hotel room, in a park, or in a yoga studio.
The following article discusses the 10+ best travel yoga mats of 2024, and combines customer reviews and expert insights with emerging trends in yoga gear. The options range from travel yoga mats that fold up and keep lightweight, to natural rubber and other eco-friendly mats to do yoga on. There’s something for every yogi!
Tips for Buying a Travel Yoga Mat
By considering these factors, you can select a travel yoga mat that meets your needs and enhances your practice wherever you go.
What Features Should You Look for in a Travel Yoga Mat?
Portability
When I'm on the go, I look for mats that are lightweight and easy to fold or roll. Mats like the Manduka eKO SuperLite and Jade Voyager are my favorites because of their light weight and compactness, making them perfect for travel.
Durability
Since travel mats go through a lot of handling and different surfaces, I prefer those made from durable materials. Natural rubber is a top choice for me because it's resilient and eco-friendly.
Grip and Texture
A good travel yoga mat should provide excellent grip to prevent slipping during practice. I love mats with textured surfaces, like those from Jade and Manduka, as they offer superior traction even when wet.
Thickness
Travel mats are typically thinner (1-2mm) to save space. However, I consider how much cushioning I need, especially since I have joint issues. While thinner mats are easier to pack, they offer less support.
What Features Make a Yoga Mat Suitable for Outdoor Use?
For outdoor yoga, I've found that a mat should have the following features:
Weather Resistance
When practicing yoga outdoors, the mat needs to withstand exposure to sunlight, moisture, and varying temperatures. While PVC mats can be durable, they're not always the most eco-friendly option. I prefer mats made from natural rubber because they're biodegradable and often weather-resistant.
Non-Slip Surface
Outdoor surfaces can be uneven and slippery, so a mat with a non-slip surface on both sides is essential for better stability. I love using textured mats or those with an integrated microfiber layer, like the Aurorae Synergy, which are excellent for outdoor use.
Ease of Cleaning
Outdoor mats get dirty more quickly, so it's important to choose one that's easy to clean. I look for mats that are machine washable or have a closed-cell surface to prevent dirt absorption, making the cleaning process much simpler.
What Are the Benefits of a Folding Yoga Mat for Travel?
I've found that folding yoga mats offer several advantages for travelers:
Compact Storage
Folding mats can be packed into a smaller, more manageable size, making them much easier to fit into luggage or backpacks compared to rolled mats. This is perfect for minimalistic packing.
Versatility
Many folding mats are designed for various exercises, including yoga, pilates, and core workouts. This versatility adds to their functionality during travel, making them a great choice for maintaining a fitness routine on the go.
Ease of Transport
Folding mats are typically lightweight and often come with carrying straps or travel bags, enhancing their portability. This makes them super convenient for traveling yogis like myself!
What is the Ideal Size for a Yoga Mat and How Do I Determine the Right Dimensions for My Practice?
I've learned that the ideal size of a yoga mat really depends on your height and the type of yoga you practice:
Length and Width
Standard yoga mats are usually 68-72 inches long and 24 inches wide. Since I'm taller than 6 feet, I need a longer mat, around 74 inches, to ensure full-body coverage during my practice.
Thickness
Standard mats are about 1/8 inch thick (around 3mm), which offers a nice balance between comfort and stability. Travel mats are often thinner (1-2mm) to save space, but they might need extra padding if you're practicing on hard surfaces.
Personal Comfort
Personal comfort is key, especially if you have sensitive joints. I prefer a thicker mat for longer sessions or practices that involve a lot of kneeling poses, as it provides more cushioning and comfort.
The 10 Best Travel Yoga Mats
Here are my top 10 travel yoga mats! Be sure to scroll down to check out some of the specific categories after this section that make these, and other yoga mats, stand out as the best of the best.
TOP PICK: Manduka eKO Superlite Travel Yoga Mat
Jade Voyager Mat
Body by Yoga Air Cork Yoga Mat
Gaiam The Lightweight Mat
Gaiam Yoga Mat - Folding Travel Fitness & Exercise Mat
Manduka Pro Lite Yoga Mat
Aeromat Elite Yoga Pilates Mat
Khataland YoFoMat
Manduka Begin Yoga Mat
Amazon Basics Yoga Mat
What are Some Recommendations for Durable and Lightweight Yoga Travel Mats
High-quality materials are crucial for a yoga mat that lasts and provides a safe surface. Non-toxic and eco-friendly materials are the way to go, for both your health and the planet.
Balance Between Weight and Durability
A good travel mat should be lightweight for easy transport but also durable enough to handle regular use. Ideally, look for a mat that weighs between 1 to 3 pounds.
Top Recommendations
- Jade Voyager Mat: Made from natural rubber, this mat is highly portable, lightweight (1.5 lbs), and offers excellent grip.
- Body by Yoga Air Cork Yoga Mat: Crafted from cork, it provides a natural, non-slip surface and is eco-friendly.
- Gaiam Essentials Premium Yoga Mat with Yoga Mat Carrier Sling: Lightweight exercise yoga mats are super thick (1/4 inch), giving your joints that extra cushioning they need during any yoga or fitness session..
What is a Suggested Foldable Travel Yoga Mat
Top foldable yoga mats combine portability and functionality, allowing yogis to practice anywhere with ease.
Importance of Portability for Traveling Yogis
For the traveling yogi, portability is everything. It means you can practice yoga anywhere, without lugging around heavy gear. A foldable mat that fits snugly into your suitcase or backpack keeps your yoga routine consistent, no matter where you land.
Key Features to Look for in a Foldable Yoga Mat
- Thickness: Find the sweet spot between cushioning and portability.
- Material: Opt for eco-friendly, non-toxic options like natural rubber or recycled materials.
- Grip: Non-slip surfaces are essential for stability during practice.
- Durability: It needs to withstand the wear and tear of frequent folding and unfolding.
Overview of Top Picks:
Avoalre Foldable Yoga Mat, Eco-Friendly Travel Yoga Mat Packable: The innovative folding design makes the Avoalre travel yoga mat perfect for daily use. When unfolded, it lays flat on the floor without rolling up. Easily fold it, pop it into the included storage bag, and take your packable yoga mat with you wherever you go.
Gaiam Yoga Mat - Folding Travel Fitness & Exercise Mat: This foldable yoga mat fits perfectly in your carry-on or overnight bag, making it a fantastic space-saving alternative to a traditional rolled mat.
What is the Best Lightweight Yoga Mat
Lightweight mats are easier to carry and pack, making them ideal for travel. They allow for hassle-free yoga practice wherever you go.
Criteria for Selection
Look for mats that are easy to fold, provide adequate grip, and are made from durable, eco-friendly materials.
Top Lightweight Mats
- Manduka eKO Superlite Travel Yoga Mat: Ultra-light and compact, this mat offers excellent grip and is made from eco-friendly materials.
- Body by Yoga Air Cork Yoga Mat: Lightweight with a natural, non-slip surface.
- Jade Voyager Mat: Combines light weight with high durability.
Best for Hot Yoga
Mats suitable for hot yoga need to absorb sweat and maintain grip even under high temperatures. Natural rubber and microfiber are ideal materials.
Material Resilience Under High Temperatures
The mat should withstand heat without degrading. Eco-friendly rubber and specially treated materials are preferred.
Top Picks for Hot Yoga
- Gaiam Premium Reversible Lunar Wave Yoga Mat: Dual-sided with good grip and absorbency.
- Manduka Yoga Mat: Durable with excellent grip, even in hot conditions.
Ultralight Folding Travel Yoga Mat
Ultralight mats are a traveler's best friend, weighing in at less than 2 lbs and packing up with ease.
Foldability and Ease of Packing
A solid ultralight mat should fold easily without losing its shape or durability.
Top Ultralight Options
- Manduka eKO Superlite Travel Yoga Mat: Lightweight and compact.
- Jade Voyager Mat: Easy to fold and carry.
Ultra Long Folding Travel Yoga Mat
Extra length on a mat means more space for taller folks and those who need room for expansive poses.
Travel-Friendly Long Mats
For taller yogis, mats that offer extra length while staying portable are a game-changer.
Recommended Ultra Long Mats
- Khataland YoFoMat: Extra-long and foldable, perfect for taller individuals, with great durability.
Fun and Functional Yoga Accessories
Personalized accessories add a touch of fun and individuality to yoga practice, making the experience even more enjoyable.
Popular Punny Yoga Pins
I love punny yoga pins! They’re a fantastic way to personalize your yoga gear, adding a bit of humor and style to every session.
Manduka Yoga Mat
Manduka is known for its top-notch, eco-friendly yoga mats that deliver on performance and durability. A trusted name among yogis, Manduka’s mats are built to last and kind to the planet.
Key Features of Manduka Travel Mats
- Durability: High-quality materials ensure long-lasting use.
- Eco-Friendly: Made from sustainable materials like natural rubber.
- Performance: Excellent grip and cushioning for a comfortable practice.
Top Manduka Picks
- Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Mat: Ultra-light and foldable, perfect for travel.
Amazon Basics Yoga Mat
Amazon Basics serves up affordable, accessible yoga mats perfect for beginners and budget-conscious travelers. If you're looking for an inexpensive travel mat, they've got you covered.
Features and Quality
These mats offer basic features suitable for general yoga practice, though they may not boast the advanced specs of higher-end brands.
Review of Amazon Basics Yoga Mat
While easy on the wallet, the Amazon Basics yoga mat might not stand up to the rigors of frequent travel and intense practice.
Other Travel Yoga Mats I Liked
Here are some additional travel yoga mats that might catch your eye:
YOGO Ultralight Travel Yoga Mat
I love how compact this mat is, and the built-in straps and handles make it super easy to carry around. Plus, it's eco-friendly and made from natural rubber, which is a big win for me.
If you're into beautiful designs like I am, the Mikkoa Travel Mat is a must-have. It's crafted from eco-friendly materials, lightweight, portable, and offers a great grip. Perfect for stylish travelers.
This mat offers excellent cushioning and durability. It's a bit heavier, but it provides fantastic support for all types of yoga practices. Plus, it folds easily, which is great for travel.
Made with natural suede and eco-friendly rubber, this mat gets more non-slip as it absorbs sweat, making it perfect for hot yoga. It's thin, lightweight, and folds up easily, making it a great travel companion.
Bennd Chakra Ayurvedic Yoga Mat
This mat is truly unique—hand-loomed and infused with 22 different Ayurvedic herbs. It's eco-conscious and designed to promote healing, offering a distinct and holistic yoga experience.
Cork Yoga Mat Bag
Cork yoga mat bags are becoming a favorite of mine because they’re eco-friendly and durable. Made from sustainable cork material, these bags are not only stylish but also practical for transporting yoga mats and accessories.
Omni Elite Cork Yoga Mat Bag
I highly recommend the Omni Elite Cork Yoga Mat Bag. It’s praised for its roomy interior that can fit large mats, cork blocks, and other essentials. Handmade from natural cork, it’s durable and easy to clean. Plus, its aesthetic appeal and the environmental benefits of using sustainable materials make it a winner.
Myga Natural Cork Yoga Mat Bag
Another great option is the Myga Natural Cork Yoga Mat Bag. Its practical design includes adjustable straps for easy carrying and a zippered pocket to keep valuables secure. The open-ended design enhances airflow, keeping the yoga mat dry and fresh.
Both of these bags combine functionality with eco-conscious design, making them perfect for yoga enthusiasts like me who want to minimize their environmental footprint.
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