As somebody who workouts incessantly and is at all times on the transfer, I’ve found that not all exercise tools is effectively suited to journey, particularly in relation to 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 can assist you establish an amazing journey yoga mat to your subsequent journey, SELF consulted specialists and pulled collectively an inventory of the perfect 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 may also 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 moveable 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 selection for vacationers due to its grip—however many yogis want pure rubber, which affords a bit extra cushion. And for an easier-to-clean mat (a significant plus while you’re on a visit), search for a closed-cell design, that means the fabric is nonporous, Sarah Larson Levey, a registered yoga teacher and cofounder of Y7 Studio in NYC, beforehand advised SELF.
Although commonplace yoga mats are usually a minimum of three millimeters thick, one thing thinner is good 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 contemplate general weight: Most choices vary from two to seven kilos, however a super journey mat will are available in a little bit lighter—say, between two and 4 kilos. That stated, minimalist mats might not be well-suited for all yogis: A thicker mat with extra cushion would possibly really feel far more snug for folks with delicate knees or joint ache, Annie Strikes, a registered yoga teacher at Alo Strikes, beforehand advised SELF.
Different options may also help maintain your mat ultraportable too. As an illustration, strap bands maintain it folded or rolled up throughout expeditions, changing cumbersome mat luggage.
The most effective journey yoga mats
Beneath, you’ll discover yogi- and expert-recommended picks, in addition to a few of my favourite mats. All of those choices are below 4 kilos, lower than two millimeters thick, and tremendous straightforward to pack.