As someone who works out frequently and is always on the move, I’ve realized that not all workout equipment is travel-friendly, especially when it comes to yoga mats.Over the years, I many Among the travel mats I’ve used on my travels around the world, the ones that stood out to me all shared similar features (compact design, easy-to-clean surfaces, lightweight construction, etc.).
But don’t just take my word for it. To help you identify the best travel yoga mat for your next trip, SELF consulted experts and compiled a list of the best options available. Whether you want to continue your practice while on vacation or want to hit your stride while on the go, one of these mats will help you achieve those goals.
How to choose a travel yoga mat
First of all: If you’re going to take it with you on the go, it needs to be easy to carry. “When it comes to travel mats, they need to be grippy, lightweight, and portable enough to fit in your carry-on bag,” jake panasevicA registered yoga instructor based in Philadelphia tells SELF.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is popular among travelers for its grippy yoga mat material, but many yogis prefer natural rubber for a little more cushioning. Also, if you want a mat that is easy to clean (a huge benefit when traveling), look for a closed cell design, meaning the material is non-porous. sarah larson levyis a registered yoga instructor and co-founder of. Y7 studio He previously spoke to SELF in New York.
Standard yoga mats are usually at least 3 millimeters thick, but a thinner one is ideal for folding, rolling, and stuffing into your travel bag, says the Registered Yoga Instructor. grounding, tell SELF. Overall weight must also be considered. Most options are between 2 and 7 pounds, but the ideal travel mat will be a little lighter, say between 2 and 4 pounds. That said, a minimalist mat may not be right for every yogi. People with sensitive knees or joint pain may find a thicker mat with more cushioning to be much more comfortable. Annie’s movementsthe Alo Moves registered yoga instructor previously told SELF.
Other features also help keep the mat very portable. For example, a strap band allows you to keep it folded or rolled up during a road trip and use it instead of a bulky mat bag.
best travel yoga mat
Below are some mats recommended by yogis and experts, as well as some of my favorites. All of these options are less than 4 pounds and less than 2 millimeters thick, making them very easy to pack.
