As somebody who workout routines often and is all the time on-the-move, I’ve found that not all exercise tools is well-suited for journey, particularly in terms of yoga mats. Over time, I’ve examined out a lot of journey mats throughout journeys internationally—and those that stood out all shared comparable options (corresponding to a compact design, easy-to-clean surfaces, and light-weight construction).

However don’t simply take my phrase for it: That will help you determine an amazing journey yoga mat in your subsequent journey, SELF consulted consultants and pulled collectively an inventory of one of the best choices accessible. Whether or not you need to sustain along with your follow on trip or stretch all of it out whereas on the highway, one among these mats might help you obtain these targets.

How to decide on a journey yoga mat

First issues first: For those who’ll be bringing it on the go, it needs to be straightforward to haul: “In relation to a journey mat, it needs to be grippy, light-weight, and transportable sufficient to slot in my carry-on bag,” Jake Panasevich, a registered yoga teacher based mostly in Philadelphia, tells SELF.

As for yoga mat materials, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a well-liked alternative for vacationers due to its grip—however many yogis want pure rubber, which provides a bit extra cushion. And for an easier-to-clean mat (a serious plus if you’re on a visit), search for a closed-cell design, which means the fabric is nonporous, Sarah Larson Levey, a registered yoga teacher and cofounder of Y7 Studio in NYC, beforehand advised SELF.

Whereas commonplace yoga mats are typically at the least three millimeters (mm) thick, one thing thinner is right for folding, rolling, and squeezing into journey luggage, Morgan Rodríguez, a registered yoga teacher and founding father of Grounding Down, tells SELF. You also needs to think about general weight: Most choices vary from two to seven kilos, however an excellent journey mat will are available in slightly lighter—say, between two and 4 kilos. That mentioned, minimalist mats might not be well-suited for all yogis: A thicker mat with extra cushion may really feel far more comfy for folks with delicate knees or joint ache, Annie Strikes, a registered yoga teacher at Alo Strikes, beforehand advised SELF.

Different options might help preserve your mat ultra-portable, too. As an example, strap bands preserve it folded or rolled up throughout expeditions, changing cumbersome mat luggage.

The most effective journey yoga mats

Under, you’ll discover yogi- and expert-recommended picks, in addition to a few of my favourite mats. All of those choices are underneath 4 kilos, lower than two millimeters thick, and tremendous straightforward to pack.