The 7 Best Face Masks for Travel

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As travel restrictions begin to loosen, one thing will remain constant (at least for now)—face masks will be required. If you’re embarking on a long plane ride, the last thing you want is to be stuck with an uncomfortable mask for your whole journey, or worse, one that’s not protective. From legitimate (and in-stock) N95 masks, to ultra-comfortable face-coverings, these are the best masks for travel. 

Editor’s Note: Make sure to check the CDC’s latest mask guidelines and their tips on good mask habits to maximize protection for yourself and others.

Bona Fide N95 and K95 Masks

N95 and K95 are the most protective types of masks on the market, but legitimate ones can be tough to find (watch out for poorly-made knockoffs that don’t filter as effectively). Bona Fide Masks is a reputable place to buy real ones. This site offers National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) approved N95 Masks as well as FDA authorized K95 masks.

Both the N95 and K95s fit securely to your face, but their molded design can be more comfortable to wear than a fabric mask, because the mask stands away from your mouth.

BUFF Filter Tube and Masks

BUFF is known for their incredibly comfortable multifunctional headwear, and the company’s new line of Filter Tubes and Filter Masks utilizes the same stretchy, comfortable, and moisture-wicking material—without sacrificing on protection.

Unlike a typical neck gaiter, BUFF’s Filter Tubes features an antimicrobial pocket for a replaceable, three-layer filter that offers 98 percent bacterial filtration efficiency. The Filter Masks have the same feature, as well as over-the-head masks that won’t hurt your ears.

UNIQLO AIRism Face Masks

UNIQLO’s AIRism fabric has been a long-time traveler favorite. The thin, cooling fabric wicks away moisture and keeps you cool, plush blocks 90 percent of UV rays for sun protection. UNIQLO’s AIRism masks are made from three layers of the same magical fabric, plus a washable, built-in, non-woven filter to block airborne droplets. 

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VIDA KN95 Masks

VIDA’s KN95 Masks are NIOSH and FDA-authorized and offer more than 95 percent protection against aerosols. You can feel good about ordering a mask from VIDA, as every purchase includes a prepaid label to return your used masks to be recycled sustainability. Bonus: their N95 and KN95 masks come in fun colors. 

Everlane 100 Percent Human Face Masks

Reviewers rave about Everlane’s 100 Percent Human Face Masks, calling them one of the most comfortable masks on the market. These reusable face masks are made from an ultra-soft woven double-woven fabric (the same fabric is used to cover the elastic ear loops) for extra comfort. For each mask sold, Everlane will donate 10 percent of the purchase price to the ACLU.

Outdoor Research Essential Face Mask Kit

Outdoor Research’s Essential Face Mask Kit comes with everything you need for travel—a machine-washable mask, a pack of filters, and a protective storage pouch to keep your mask clean and safe when you’re not wearing it. The mask itself is stain-repelling, moisture-wicking, and has an adjustable nose wire and ear loops for the perfect fit.

Baggu Tie Face Masks

Not a fan over the ear loops on masks? Baggu’s Tie Face Masks offer an alternative, with adjustable straps that tie behind your head for the perfect fit without pulling on your ears. The masks are made from a 100 percent organic quilter’s cotton, which has a tight weave and thick thread that makes it more effective at virus-blocking. Baggu’s masks come in a wide variety of colors and prints to match any kind of travel outfit. 

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