I'm a Plus-size Travel Writer, and These Are the Most Comfortable Shorts for Hot-weather Travel, From $13

Travel + Leisure

a day ago

Whether you're planning an escape to Greece, a beach vacation along the Gulf Coast, or a private island in Belize, shorts are likely to be an essential staple of your travel wardrobe. They're comfortable to wear, can help keep you cool during the hottest time of the year, and they're travel-friendly. After all, they don't take up much room in a suitcase!
It took me a lot of trial and error to find plus-size shorts that are versatile and fun to wear. A good pair of summer shorts should be breathable to keep you comfortable even as the temperatures rise, and they should be soft and made of fabric that is gentle against your skin. And, I always give major bonus points to pairs of shorts that have pockets, too. I rounded up my 15 favorite plus-size shorts for women, including linen shorts, easy-to-move-in bike shorts, comfortable denim shorts, and more from Amazon, Torrid, and Lane Bryant. Prices start at $13.
I find that jean shorts are either comfortable or so uncomfortable that I want to get them off as soon as I put them on. Fortunately, these Lee Bermuda shorts are comfortable, soft, and stretchy, so you can wear them all day. They sit at the waist and have a relaxed fit, so they won't feel restricting on a hot day.
I especially appreciate the versatility of these Bermuda jean shorts. Their knee-length style makes them easy to dress up or down, and they have an impressive five pockets for storing essentials. They're a staple of my travel wardrobe during the warmer months.
I enjoy clothes with a feminine look, so I instantly loved these ruffled shorts. When I tried them on, I adored them even more, thanks to the flattering fit and soft, lightweight fabric. I appreciated the stretchy waistline that has a drawstring to ensure it always fits just right. And they're so comfortable that they could double as pajama bottoms, too.
These shorts are wrinkle-resistant, so you can toss them in your suitcase, and they'll be ready to wear when you arrive at your destination. My only gripe with them is that they are quite short, but they are perfect if you like short shorts.
Jean shorts pull their weight in a travel wardrobe like no other shorts because of their versatility. Of the many options for jean shorts, however, these Torrid pull-on denim shorts are my favorite. I love their soft feel, relaxed fit, and four pockets to store items like a hotel room key or my phone.
The fly-free drawstring waistband makes them perfect for all-day wear. In fact, they're so comfy I often wear them on flights. These fashionable denim shorts are on sale now for 40 percent off, so it's a good time to stock up for your next summer adventure.
Ready for outdoor adventures this summer? If so, these versatile Torrid bike shorts allow for easy movement with a waistband that stays in place and won't roll down. Plus, the high-rise design is flattering, and the snug fit feels comfortable and supportive. They come in a wide variety of colors and patterns with fun themes such as Country Floral Roasted Russet, Tie Dye Explosion Fuschia Red, and Dance Dance Floral Peacoat.
Another thing I appreciate about these shorts is the four-way stretch. Since my weight sometimes fluctuates, I like shorts with stretch that have more flexibility than more rigid shorts. These are also so comfortable that I usually wear them underneath skirts and dresses to prevent leg chafing.
Made with light and airy spacer fabric, these Spanx shorts are just right for outdoor fun in the summertime. What I love the most about wearing them is how comfortable they are with four-way stretch and a slightly relaxed fit. They are soft yet have a somewhat textured look and feel, and they have a dig-free waistband that keeps them in place.
These athletic-inspired shorts offer UPF 50+ protection, which is important if you are often staying out in the summer sun. When you pair them with the matching Spanx full zip track jacket and long sleeve crewneck top, you'll have even more sun protection—plus, a go-to matching set for travel days. $60 $36 at Lanebryant.com
While I normally wear shorts only for casual looks, these Lane Bryant trouser shorts are a little more elevated and look fantastic with a dressy blouse. Yet, they can still be dressed down with a tank top or T-shirt. I find the pull-on covered elastic waistband to be really comfy, and it stays firmly in place without riding up or down. I like the extra touch of a faux fly, so it's easy to disguise the elasticity of the waist if you want to.
This pair of shorts has a wide leg and offers a relaxed fit from the hip all the way down to the hem. It's made of Ponte, a smooth knit fabric that's highly stretchy yet has a strong structure. And the fully-functional front and back pockets will certainly come in handy.
Extremely affordable and simple in style, these pull-on gym shorts have casual summer style written all over them. With a 2-inch elastic waistband, they're easy to slip on and off, and they have hem vents for added breathability.
These shorts have deep side slash pockets so you can stash things like your keys on the go. They fit true to size and easily move with you. In fact, they're so comfortable they could double as lounge or pajama shorts.
I reach for comfy, flowy shorts when I travel, so I was immediately drawn to these bottoms, especially with the added flair of the stylish scalloped trim. The lightweight fabric feels terrific against my skin.
These lounge shorts have an elastic waist with a drawstring, so they always fit well. They also are easily dressed up or down: Throw on a tank top to dress the shorts down, or choose a chic, dressy top for a fancier look. Keep in mind that these shorts don't have stretch, so you may want to size up.
Feeling stifled by clothing when you're traveling in the heat is the worst. That's why lightweight material and flowy styles are ideal features for summer shorts, and these long, loose-fitting jean shorts are just that. They are baggy through the legs, which is perfect for stretching out on long flights or staying cool during a full day of sightseeing.
These slouchy shorts have five pockets, so they're pretty much loaded with as many storage options as shorts can comfortably have. Because they are made of traditional denim, they don't have a lot of stretch, so be sure to order them in the right size. $80 $48 at Lanebryant.com
Want to wear a boyfriend fit pair of jean shorts during your summer travels? You can't go wrong with these Lane Bryant shorts. They are eye-catching with their eyelet hem. The relaxed fit that sits low on the hips and the stretchy waistband make them comfortable to wear all day, and the boyfriend silhouette is stylish with a roomy leg and slouchy cut.
These jean shorts are practical, too. They have front and back pockets, so you have plenty of space to store things you might need during a day trip. As an added bonus, the back pockets have what Lane Bryant calls a 'best-in-class booty lift' for a flattering fit and look.
There's no better time than the summer months to take a bold risk with your fashion, and these printed shorts offer plenty of opportunity. You can wear colorful tie-dye, pink plaid, rainbow stripes, and more, whether you're heading to the beach or going to the hotel gym.
Made of polyester, these shorts are easy to pull on with an elastic waist, and they have a drawstring for the ideal fit. They do run small, so you may want to order up a size.
These flowy, smocked shorts can be worn from lounging at the pool to exploring a European city on a walking tour, thanks to the loose, comfortable fit. These versatile shorts are also great for resortwear and can be dressed up with the right accessories for lunch or dinner.
Available in brown, white, blue, or black, these breezy shorts have a wide leg that I wear spandex shorts under (they tend to fly up if it's windy). The soft, stretchy fabric feels terrific against the skin, and I think the fit is just right. They're the right length, too, without being too short.
With a breezy fit and simple style, these linen-blend shorts are just right for lounging by the pool or strolling down city streets during your summer travels. I love the drapey style that's flattering for all, and the adjustable drawcord and elastic waist mean you can get a perfect fit, even when there are changes to your weight and body.
These flowy shorts are my go-to for dressy casual activities when I'm on vacation. They've held up well after many washes and are available in plus sizes up to a 6X. I have the black pair, but I'm tempted to try the other colors, such as white, dark blue, and military green.
Breathable? Check. Comfortable? Check. Effortlessly stylish? Check. Wrinkle resistant? Check. If you make a checklist for what summer shorts should be, these Woman Within cotton denim shorts would meet all the requirements, with their relaxed fit and full elastic waistband for ultimate comfort.
These shorts have long front pockets, and they fit true to size. The classic denim look is easy to match with anything in your suitcase, and I've found that they actually get more comfortable as I've washed and worn them over time. They are also available in a variety of bold colors such as yellow, purple, and red.
With added sun protection, these cargo shorts are perfect for an outdoor vacation, whether you'll be hiking or spending the day by the beach. They're made of a water-resistant fabric that dries quickly, so they'll keep you comfortable, even when you're sweating. A standout feature of these shorts is the zippered pocket that can hold precious things you don't want to risk losing on a hike. There are also two additional side pockets and a deep pocket on the leg that can hold plenty of essentials.
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