travel yoga mat eco

• South Africa
• Turkmenistan
• South Korea
• Philippines
• Timor Leste
• Afghanistan
• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates
• Northern Ireland
• Isle Of Man
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Czech Republic
• Antigua And Barbuda
• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• Puerto Rico
• Saint Barthelemy
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Martin & Sint Maarten
• Trinidad And Tobago
• Turks And Caicos
• US Virgin Islands
• Falkland Islands
• French Guiana
• El Salvador
• United States
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Cook Islands
• French Polynesia
• Accessories
• Bags & Backpacks
• Horseback Riding
• Photography
• Maintenance
• Airport Hotels
• Bed & Breakfast
• Budget Hotels
• Business Hotels
• Family Friendly Hotels
• Gay Friendly Hotels
• Luxury Hotels
• Pet Friendly Hotels
• Pool Hotels
• Romantic Hotels

13 Best Eco Travel Yoga Mats

• Travel Gear
• 13 Best Eco Travel Yoga…

Going on a trip somewhere doesn’t mean you have to compromise your yoga routine. A travel yoga mat is here as a solution. With a travel yoga mat, it’s easy to do yoga anytime and anywhere you want. You can do it on the beach, in the park, or in your hotel room. As a responsible yogi (and human being), you should always go for eco-friendly and sustainable products. That’s why an eco-friendly yoga mat is the ultimate solution. Doing yoga on an eco travel yoga mat is good for both your health and the planet. Isn’t that the win-win solution we all strive for? On the list below, we’ll show you the best eco-friendly travel yoga mats for responsible yogis like you.

And talking about the perfect location for both traveling and yoga, we definitely should mention Bali, especially Ubud. This is a paradise for all yogis all around the world. Go check out the best hotels in Ubud and start planning your visit today! But if Bali is not your cup of tea, there are plenty of other alternatives. Chiang Mai would be a great place for your spiritual growth. Here are the best hotels in Chiang Mai for a memorable experience like never before.

How to Choose the Best Eco Travel Yoga Mat

There are way too many yoga mats on the market. However, not all yoga mats are eco-friendly and made through a sustainable process. If you care about the environment, always choose a sustainable product. That’s why an eco travel yoga mat should always be the number one choice. But before you buy your first eco-friendly yoga mat, here are 4 things to consider so you won’t regret buying it.

As we mentioned before, natural material is what we’re looking for when it comes to an eco travel yoga mat. Pick a product that’s made with sustainable material and process. You should avoid a yoga mat that contains PVC, NBR, or other harmful plasticizers. The best material is eco-friendly TPE material and other natural rubber. It will be even better if you’re able to find a yoga mat that’s made of plant-based material, such as cork yoga mats.

Since you’re traveling, you need an eco travel yoga mat that’s compact enough to pack, but also big enough for various yoga movement. If it’s too big, carrying it will be such a hassle. But when it’s too small, you won’t be as free when performing certain poses. This is why it’s important to look for something in between. Another thing to consider is the thickness and the packability of the mat.

Just because an eco travel yoga mat is bigger doesn’t mean it necessarily weighs more. You need to actually check the weight of the mat, not just the size. Some yoga mats can be smaller in size but weigh more because of their thickness. The material can also make a huge difference in weight.

And last but not least is durability. You want to make sure that you buy a product that will last for years. Nothing’s worse than buying an eco travel yoga mat that won’t last for long term travel. Many eco-friendly yoga mats can be expensive, make sure you make a good investment and buy the one with the highest quality.

How much should you spend on an eco travel yoga mat?

There’s really no standard when it comes to an eco travel yoga mat. However, a good price range is anywhere from 50 USD to 100 USD. Some may be more expensive or less expensive depending on the brand.

How do you travel with an eco travel yoga mat?

Fortunately, most travel yoga mats come with carry-on straps so you don’t have to worry about how to bring it with you when you’re on the go. Most of the mats are also easily foldable.

Is a thicker eco travel yoga mat better?

Thicker doesn’t necessarily mean better. Sure, thicker mats may provide better cushion and it’s suitable for restorative yoga. However, carrying it can be a hassle since it won’t fold into the most compact size.

BEUNIV Yoga Mats Non Slip (CU)

Don’t you love a professional eco travel yoga mat that is available at an entry-level price? We all love a good deal and BEUNIV Yoga Mats Non-Slip is such a steal when it comes to the eco-friendly yoga mat for traveling. This mat is made of premium TPE material that’s odorless, healthy, and recyclable. You don’t have to worry about quality since it offers better resilience and improved durability.

The best thing about this travel yoga mat is its non-slip texture and double layer tear-resistance. Equipped with a special sticky anti-skip texture on both sides, it has a higher density than ordinary yoga mats. With excellent traction and superior grip, it’s suitable for many forms of yoga.

What We Love

A pro-level yoga mat with an entry-level price.

• Non-slip texture
• Lightweight
• The dimension may be too big

SNΛKUGΛ Travel Yoga Mat

Imagine carrying a foldable yoga mat that fits inside your backpack! Isn’t that handy? For a yogi who travels a lot, SNΛKUGΛ Travel Yoga Mat is a perfect choice. This portable yoga mat can be folded into 12 inches x 10 inches which makes it easy to carry. Complete with a convenient carrying pouch, you can practice yoga wherever and whenever you want.

The highlight of this eco travel yoga mat is its suede surface. It’s made of natural suede that features excellent, soft, comfortable, and moisture absorption. With good moisture-absorbing and quick-drying technology, it’s ideal for all types of yoga including Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Hatha, Power, and Pilates.

An ultra-soft yoga mat with moisture-absorbing technology.

• Quick-drying material
• Non-slip grip
• Quite heavy

Yogi Bare Teddy

Are you more into hot yoga and it’s part of your routine wherever you are? Then, Yogi Bare Teddy is the one to buy! Featuring a sweat adaptive highly absorbent microfibre surface, this mat becomes grippier the more you sweat. This is the most ideal mat for hot yoga. Need an even better grip? Just spray water all over the surface before you start practicing.

Yogi Bare Teddy is a sustainable eco travel yoga mat made of 100% natural rubber. The rubber base offers an ultimate grip to the floor, so you don’t have to worry anymore about the mat not staying in place. This makes sure you’ll have a stable and secure position to fully engage your muscles.

A simple hot yoga mat with a natural rubber material.

• Machine washable
• Thin and lightweight
• Extreme grip rubber base
• More grip as you sweat
• A little slippery when it’s dry

Lotuscrafts Cork

Many brands claimed that their products are eco-friendly, but most don’t come with further explanation. Lotuscrafts is bold enough to claim that Lotuscrafts Cork is made of 100% sustainable materials. This non-slip eco travel yoga mat consists of a TPE underside and a natural cork surface. This product doesn’t contain any latex, PVC, or plasticizers.

The self-cleaning technology makes it easy for you to clean it up hassle-free. The surface is also odor-repellent and it will counteract odors, so you don’t have to worry about the smelly mat. And since it’s made with a combination of natural cork and TPE, this is one of the lightest eco yoga mats you can find on the market.

A self-cleaning yoga mat with 100% sustainable material.

• Gentle absorption
• Sweat resistance surface
• Plastic-free packaging
• The cork may peel off easily

Liforme Travel Yoga Mat

As you get more advanced and finally reach a professional level, it’s time to upgrade your eco travel yoga mat with the pro one to match your yoga skills. Liforme Travel Yoga Mat features a revolutionary alignment system to maximize your yoga experience. Its intelligent “AlignForMe” design helps guide and prevent injuries to all yogis of all levels.

Other than that, the “GripForMe” premium material offers you an unparalleled warrior-grip during your yoga session. Transform your practice with this perfectly portable yoga mat that comes with a free yoga bag. The best thing about this mat is it’s made of a biodegradable material. It’s truly environmental-friendly since it’s made of high-quality non-toxic materials.

A professional yoga mat with biodegradable material.

• Alignment system
• Revolutionary grip
• Price is higher than competitors

Yogo Ultralight Foldable Yoga Mat (CU)

If you really care about the environment, you should only get products that are made of natural material. If you’re a yogi who puts sustainability above everything else, Yogo Ultralight Foldable Yoga Mat should be your number one choice. This simple eco travel yoga mat is made of plant-based vegan material to make a positive impact on the planet. Buying a sustainable and organic product is one of the best ways to help save the planet.

We highly recommend this travel yoga mat since it’s purposefully made for travel and outdoor activities. It’s a great product for those who ha an active lifestyle. It folds easily and provides more than enough grip. It’s also easy to clean since the origami folding system keeps the top clean.

An award-winning yoga mat with plant-based vegan material.

• One tree planted in every purchase
• Super sticky
• Very compact
• Integrated straps
• Can be slippery when it’s too wet

FBSPORT Yoga Mat (CU)

When all you need is a minimalist and simple eco travel yoga mat, FBSPORT Yoga Mat comes in handy. With its easy-to-go design and free carry strap, there’s no need to buy one separately. It’s convenient to carry anywhere you go. With 6-mm thickness, this mat provides excellent resilience while being light and thin. It gives the most comfortable experience for yogis of all levels.

The material is no doubt one of the best on the market. FBSPORT Yoga Mat is made up of premium TPE friendly material that’s truly eco-friendly and recyclable. This material is also flexible and durable so that it can be stretched repeatedly without losing its elasticity.

A minimalist and easy to clean travel yoga mat

• Double-sided non-slip design
• High durability
• Free carry strap
• Your hair may stick easily to the mat

YOGA DESIGN LAB

Get a perfect combo of a premium non-slip eco travel yoga mat with an innovative 2-in1 design for better grip plus towel in one package. This eco-friendly mat is made with a combination of natural tree rubber and microfiber from recycled bottles. YOGA DESIGN LAB is the ultimate choice for yogis looking for a product that won’t harm the planet. Also, since it’s coated with water-based prints, it won’t cause allergies or irritation for those with sensitive skins.

Too sweaty that day and the mat becomes so dirty? Just throw it in the washing machine since the material is machine washable. Except for the colors, the prints will not fade! The best thing about this product is the mission. When you get one of these, $1 of each purchase goes to support boys and girls youth yoga programs.

Sustainable yoga mat with a super-cool design

• Water-based prints
• Free towel in the package
• The colors tend to fade easily

Jade Travel Yoga Mat

Jade Travel Yoga Mat is perfect for yogis on-the-go. This is one of the simplest travel yoga mats you can get on the market. The Jade Yoga Mat can easily fold up to fit in your carry-on bag, tote bag, or backpack. Its simplicity allows you to practice wherever and whenever you want! This yoga mat is designed to utilize only premium materials to ensure outstanding performance and durability.

This eco travel yoga mat provides a superior level of traction. The natural rubber material offers a much stronger grip and more cushion compared to synthetic rubbers like PVC, EVA, and PER. The sustainability mission doesn’t stop there. Since this mat comes from trees, Jade is committed to planting a tree for every mat sold. To this day, Jade has been planting more than one million trees.

A simple yoga mat with superior quality.

• High-quality American-made
• No synthetic materials
• Incredible drip
• Highly durable
• High maintenance

Ajna Organic Yoga Mat

Other eco travel yoga mat may still have a little harmful and cheap materials, but it’s not the case with Ajna Organic Yoga Mat . This eco-friendly yoga mat is truly sustainable as it’s made of premium organic natural fibers that provide a durable non-slip texture. What makes this material special is its smell repellent and anti-stain technology. All these features will bring you a better and more enjoyable yoga practice.

While many yoga mats claim to be thick, most of those mats usually lack the density to support your body, making it hard to keep your body in balance. However, with Ajna Organic Yoga Mat, rest assured that it won’t be a problem since it features a perfect combination of comfort and functionality.

An epic travel yoga mat for organic materials.

• Ethically made
• Lightweight composition
• Absorbs dirt quite easily

Manduka eKO Superlite

Some yogis are sensitive to latex. This can be a big problem if you don’t pick the right product. Manduka eKO Superlite is the perfect solution for all yogis who develop allergies when in contact with latex. This eco travel yoga mat is made of biodegradable material that’s also latex-free. Even better, the brand makes sure that all their products are non-Amazin harvested, and made of natural tree rubber with non-toxic foaming agents.

Not only does it feature natural materials, but this yoga mat also contains no PVC or other harmful plasticizers. If you really care about the environment, this is your ideal choice since the production is also committed to a zero-waste manufacturing process.

A latex-free and durable yoga mat with biodegradable material.

• Non-toxic foaming agents
• Closed-cell surface
• Orange peel texture
• Natural tree rubber
• Has a pretty strong smell

Ewedoos Eco Friendly Yoga Mat

Ewedoos Eco Friendly Yoga Mat ’s main feature is the body alignment system. Whether you are a professional or a beginner-level yogi, the body alignment system will always help you to focus and adjust your hands and feet to an accurate position. This way, you can keep your body in proper alignment even during the most difficult yoga poses. This is something you never thought you would need. But once you have it, you’ll find this alignment system really helpful.

Besides the enhanced alignment system, this eco travel yoga mat also has an innovative material. It’s made of technologically improved TPE material. This is an innovative material since it provides superior durability, more flexibility as well as a low modulus.

An innovative yoga mat with a body alignment system.

• Double-sided non-slip surface
• Not suitable for vigorous exercises

TOPLUS Pro (CU)

There’s no doubt that TOPLUS Pro is truly the best among other yoga mats on the list. This eco travel yoga mat really has so much to offer. Not only it’s eco-friendly, but the premium TPE material features the latest technological improvement. It’s a much better option compared to conventional yoga mats that are made of non-green materials.

With the perfect dimension and thickness, this mat provides the most excellent yoga experience for yogis of all levels. It’s guaranteed to give you the optimal level of protection and cushion for the best yoga experience possible.

A premium yoga mat with a perfect resilience performance.

• One-year warranty
• Unique non-slip texture
• Tearproof design
• Not the best for hot yoga

Author:  Craig Connors

As a travel enthusiast and experienced adventurer, I have spent years exploring the world and discovering hidden gems in every corner of the globe. From backpacking through Europe to trekking in the Himalayas, I have chased my passion for travel and embraced every opportunity to learn about different cultures and ways of life. Now, as a travel writer and website author, I channel my love of exploration into creating informative and inspiring content for fellow travelers. Whether you're planning a solo trip to a remote destination or seeking family-friendly activities in a bustling city, I am dedicated to providing you with the tools and knowledge you need to make the most of your journey. With a keen eye for detail and a love of storytelling, I bring each destination to life through vivid descriptions and engaging narratives, highlighting the unique experiences and attractions that make each place so special. So join me on this journey of discovery, and let's explore the world together!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

7 Best Foldable Yoga Mats for Travel

Freaking Nomads is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free, helpful content. Learn more

Yoga has become an important part of my routine, but if you're a yogi like me, you know how crucial finding the right mat is. As someone who’s always on the move, I remember the moment I realized my old, bulky yoga mat just wasn’t going to cut it for traveling.

There I was, trying to squeeze it into an already overstuffed suitcase before a flight to Thailand, and it hit me: I needed something more practical. It had to be comfortable and grippy but also light enough to pack away easily and tough enough to handle being unfurled on a variety of surfaces. Easier said than done!

If this sounds familiar, you're in the right place. We’ve researched, tested, and reviewed the top travel yoga mats to find options that stand up to the demands of life on the road. This guide will help you pick a yoga mat that suits your travel and yoga needs , with personal tips from us on how to carry, maintain, and clean your mat while traveling (yes, you need to clean it!). Ready to find your perfect travel yoga mat? We are!

• Image: /content/images/size/w600/2024/03/yogo-ultralight-folding-mat.webp
• Title: Yogo Ultralight 4.0 Folding Travel Yoga Mat
• Description: Best Overall Travel Yoga Mat
• Target: 1-yogo-ultralight-40-folding-travel-yoga-mat-best-overall-travel-yoga-mat
• Price: 74.00
• Link: https://yogo.net/collections/gear/products/ultralight-folding-travel-yoga-mat?rfsn=7889906.61c0df1
• Image: /content/images/size/w1600/2023/10/MIKKOA-travel-yoga-mat-1.webp
• Title: MIKKOA Travel Yoga Mat
• Description: Best for Hot Yoga
• Target: 6-mikkoa-travel-yoga-mat-best-for-hot-yoga
• Price: 89.00
• Link: https://alnk.to/1XVlOMn
• Image: /content/images/size/w1600/2023/10/gaiam-travel-mat.webp
• Title: Gaiam Travel Yoga Mat
• Description: Best Budget Mat
• Target: 2-gaiam-travel-mat-best-budget-mat
• Price: 21.22
• Link: https://amzn.to/3Q4cndt
• Image: /content/images/size/w1600/2023/10/manduka-eKO-superlite.webp
• Title: Manduka eKO Superlite Travel Yoga Mat
• Description: Best Eco-Friendly Mat
• Target: 3-manduka-eko-superlite-best-eco-friendly-mat
• Price: 52.00
• Link: https://amzn.to/46Fn25x
• Image: /content/images/2023/10/SNAKUGA-travel-yoga-mat.webp
• Title: SNAKUGA Travel Yoga Mat
• Description: Best for Versatility
• Target: 4-snakuga-travel-yoga-mat-best-for-versatility
• Price: 30.99
• Link: https://amzn.to/3s9Yp1A
• Image: /content/images/size/w1600/2023/10/yogamatters-eco-travel-yoga-mat.webp
• Title: Yogamatters Eco Travel Yoga Mat
• Description: Best Mat for Barefoot Feel
• Target: 7-yogamatters-eco-travel-yoga-mat-best-mat-for-barefoot-feel
• Price: 47.00
• Link: https://www.yogamatters.com/products/yogamatters-eco-travel-yoga-mat
• Image: /content/images/2024/04/avoalre-travel-yoga-mat.webp
• Title: Avoalre Foldable Yoga Mat
• Description: Best Storage Bag Included
• Target: 7-avoalre-foldable-yoga-mat-best-storage-bag-included
• Price: 28.95
• Link: https://amzn.to/4aNgt2T

Best Travel Yoga Mats: Our Top 6 Picks

Traveling doesn't mean you have to put your routine in the drawer. So, to make sure you can continue your yoga sessions while traveling, we've found the 6 best travel yoga mats on the market . We've personally tested each mat during our travels (yes, we have loads of mats by now), from early morning stretches on the chilly floors of a London apartment to evening asanas on a warm beach in the Canary Islands.

• Yogo Ultralight 4.0 Folding Travel Yoga Mat
• MIKKOA Travel Yoga Mat  
• Gaiam Travel Yoga Mat
• Manduka eKO Superlite Travel Yoga Mat
• SNAKUGA Travel Yoga Mat
• Yogamatters Eco Travel Yoga Mat
• Avoalre Foldable Yoga Mat

In our guide, we’ll give you the 411 of each mat, from their texture and thickness to how well they pack away. We’ll tell you what we love about them, as well as point out any challenges we've found with them because let's be honest—no mat is perfect.

1. Yogo Ultralight 4.0 Folding Travel Yoga Mat : Best Overall Travel Yoga Mat

On my recent backpacking trip through Southeast Asia, the Yogo Ultralight 4.0 Folding Travel Yoga Mat was an absolute lifesaver. Weighing just about the same as a bag of apples and as slim as a notebook at 1.7 mm thick , this mat made it into every travel bag I packed. It is incredibly effortless to carry around , and I would super recommend it, whether you are heading to a beach in Koh Lanta or setting up for some sunrise yoga on a quiet corner in Purto Escondido. And yes, I've been using the Yogo Ultralight 4.0 on different types of grounds, from grassy parks to wooden decks, and it has shown me just how versatile and reliable it can be for a traveling yogi.

What we love about this travel yoga mat

What really sets the Yogo Ultralight apart is its clever folding design. It folds up so neatly that the surface I practiced my poses on never touched the underside that lay on the ground. This was especially handy when I found myself wanting to practice in less-than-spotless locations (and who are we kidding, most of them aren't spotless). I could lay it down anywhere without worrying about getting the top side dirty.

Another thing I really appreciated about this yoga mat is its commitment to sustainability. I love knowing that it's made from FSC-certified natural rubber , which helps protect our rainforests and supports fair labor. Traveling has also opened my eyes to unfair practices towards people from poorer countries, and I don't want to be a part of that. Not to mention, the straps are made out of recycled water bottles , which feels like a small but significant contribution to reducing ocean plastic.

Key Features:

• Weight: 2.3 lbs / 1 kg
• Thickness: 0.07" / 1.7 mm
• Size: 68"L x 24"W / 173 (L) x 60 (W) cm
• Material: Tree rubber and cotton

Pros and Cons:

2. mikkoa travel yoga mat : best for hot yoga.

People always imagine yoga as this serene thing where everyone is calm and centered, and everything around is aesthetically pleasing. Sure, the first few minutes! Then, it gets all sweaty, especially in humid tropical climates where the heat amplifies every session. If you often find yourself in a hot yoga class while traveling , the MIKKOA Travel Yoga Mat is the go-to choice. This mat is tailor-made for intense, sweaty practices. It has a microfiber surface that feels smooth under your hands and feet. But the real magic happens as you heat up— the mat’s grip improves with moisture , ensuring stability no matter how challenging the positions.

Aside from its excellent grip in hot yoga sessions that prevents you from sliding or hurting yourself? Well, it's incredibly travel-friendly! It's lightweight and folds up easily , slipping into your luggage without taking up much space.

• Weight: 2.2 lbs / 1kg
• Thickness: 0.05" / 1.3 mm
• Size: 72"L x 26.7"W / 183 (L) x 67 (W) cm
• Material: Rubber

3. Gaiam Travel Mat : Best Budget Mat

Do you know the thing about reviewing yoga mats? It means you have a lot of them, which means my friends ask me to test them out all the time! A while ago, I was packing for a month-long stay in Tbilisi and all my yoga mats were with my friends (the irony). So I read some last-minute reviews about the Gaiam Travel Yoga Mat , which I was eyeing for its budget-friendly price tag. I purchased it and guess what? As I participated in daily yoga sessions in Tbilisi, ranging from different types of workouts, from energizing Vinyasa flows to grounding Yin yoga, I realized how good this mat was! Despite its modest price , this mat stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the pricier models . It’s just 2mm thick, effortlessly folding down to a neat 10" x 12" square that fits in almost any bag (or travel yoga bag). So yes, it's truly a minimalist’s dream.

Its featherlight build makes it incredibly easy to carry around, perfect if you prefer to travel light (who doesn't?). Plus, its affordability means you don’t have to compromise on quality, even if you're sticking to a tight budget. My friends are already lining up to test it!

• Weight: 1.8 lbs / 0.8 kg
• Thickness: 0.08" / 2.00 mm
• Material: PVC

4. Manduka eKO Superlite : Best Eco-Friendly Mat

As someone who travels frequently, I'm aware of my lifestyle's environmental footprint . That's why I try to make a conscious effort to choose products that align with my commitment to sustainability whenever I can. That goes for yoga mats, too. If you're like me, the Manduka eKO Superlite Travel Yoga Mat will get your curiosity tingling. Not just because it's superbly lightweight and foldable but also because it's crafted from sustainably harvested tree rubber.

It's not perfect, it's just 1.5mm thick , which means it sometimes requires the addition of a towel for extra cushioning during intense sessions. But its durability and eco-friendly design are love at first sight. After returning from a trip to Nicaragua, I can say that it held up like a champ through all sorts of daily use in different places, without showing signs of wear and tear!

What we particularly appreciate about this mat is its eco-conscious manufacturing . I can keep up with my yoga sessions without compromising my environmental principles. The mat's lightweight and easy foldability means I can take it with me anywhere—from a quick city break to a remote retreat—without adding bulk or guilt to my travel experience.

• Weight: 2.2 lbs / 1 kg
• Thickness: 0.06" / 1.5 mm
• Size: 71" (L) x 24" (W) / 180 (L) x 60 (W) cm
• Material: Sustainably harvested tree rubber

5. SNAKUGA Travel Yoga Mat : Best for Versatility

If you're a yogi constantly on the move, struggling to find a mat that keeps up with your nomadic lifestyle, then the SNAKUGA Travel Yoga Mat is probably for you. It was designed with the needs of the traveling yogi in mind , combining the best of both worlds: it’s lightweight and eco-friendly , made from a sustainable blend of natural rubber and suede . This mix ensures you get a soft, non-slip surface perfect for a range of yoga styles, from a meditative flow in your hotel room to a sweat-inducing hot yoga class in a studio.

But a heads-up: the SNAKUGA Mat does score high on environmental friendliness and portability, but it has a thinner construction. While that's great for travel, it may not provide the best cushioning if you need extra support during more challenging poses or when you're practicing on harder surfaces.

The mat's non-slip surface is super , even as sessions intensified, the mat stayed securely in place, allowing me to focus on my poses rather than worrying about slipping. And its compact and foldable nature, complete with a handy carrying bag, made it easy to transport from one destination to the next.

• Weight: 2.6 lbs / 1.2 kg
• Size: 72"L x 26"W / 183 (L) x 66 (W) cm
• Material: Natural rubber and suede

6. Yogamatters Eco Travel Yoga Mat : Best Mat for Barefoot Feel

Sometimes, the choice of a yoga mat really depends on where you'll be practicing. Yes, thick mats offer cushioning, but there are moments when you want to feel grounded and connected with the place you're in . This is especially true if you're practicing outdoors (it's not like anybody wants to feel the parquet floor of a yoga studio). So, a few months ago, we were heading to the Canary Islands, and I could already envision my early morning beach yoga sessions in Fuerteventura. I knew I wanted to be comfortable but at the same time, I wanted a mat that would let me feel the golden sand beneath my feet, you know what I mean? And the Yogamatters Eco Travel Yoga Mat turned out to be just perfect at this. Weighing only 700g and just 1mm thick , it was just the right balance.

It's like having just the right barrier against twigs and pebbles, but you still feel every grain of sand. The thin layer shields but it enhances your yoga session . Just perfect.

• Weight: 1.6 lbs / 0.7 kg
• Thickness: 0.03" / 1mm
• Size: 72"L x 24"W / 183 (L) x 61 (W) cm
• Material: Sustainably harvested natural tree rubber

7. Avoalre Foldable Yoga Mat : Best Storage Bag Included

I recently saw another digital nomad use the Avoalre Foldable Yoga Mat , went online and after seeing all the rave reviews, I thought, why not add an extra one to my collection? Since then, it’s quickly become one of my favorites because it’s so easy to pack away and carry around . What’s really cool is that this mat folds up into a neat square and comes with a bag that can also be used as a small backpack —very handy! Just a little tip: make sure to unfold it and let it air out for a few days when you first get it. This helps clear out any smells and lets it lay perfectly flat.

So…it has a foldable and portable design , it’s environmentally friendly and get this: it even has a double-sided non-slip texture , ensuring stability for various yoga styles no matter which surface you’re practicing on.

• Weight: 4.18 lbs / 1.9 kg
• Thickness: 0.02" / 0.5mm
• Material: Phthalate-free Eco-Friendly PVC

Other travel gear you may also be interested in:

How to Pick The Right Yoga Mat For You

As we saw from our list, yoga mats are not all the same ! This may not be obvious to beginners, but take it from a true yogi. Picking out the right yoga mat can completely change your yoga sessions and your travel experience . Here are a few things to keep in mind that might help you pick a mat that not only suits your yoga style but also fits into your travel routine:

Digital nomads aren't just visiting one country. We're always on the move. So, traveling light is essential , and this extends to your yoga mat, too. You don't want to carry around a bulky mat through a crowded international airport, trust me, I know. I learned this the hard way when I brought a heavier yoga mat on a backpacking trip through Europe. It felt like I was hauling a second backpack. That experience made me start testing out various mats, opting to find something lighter, which drastically changed how I travel. A lightweight mat is invaluable when you're moving often and have to carry your gear yourself. It needs to be light enough not to be a burden , yet substantial enough to provide comfort and support on whichever surface you're practicing on.

Texture & Grip

You don't want to be having a yoga session, worrying about whether your sweaty hand is going to slip away or not, potentially hurting yourself . That's why the right texture and grip can make or break your yoga practice , especially in unfamiliar settings. I once found myself on a sleek studio floor in Puerto Escondido where my mat just wouldn't stay put because it didn't stick well to the surface. After switching to a mat with a cork texture, my yoga sessions became way more stable, no matter the surface. Cork and jute are excellent because they offer natural slip-slip resistance , which is essential whether you're trying to hold a pose on a dewy morning hillside or a humid tropical beach.

We've rolled out everything from PVC to natural rubber mats throughout our yoga journey . While PVC mats are budget-friendly and offer decent initial stickiness, they haven't always matched up with the performance of natural rubber or other eco-friendly options. The shift to natural rubber made a difference for me, especially in terms of grip and eco-consciousness .

Size does matter when it comes to yoga mats. I remember practicing on a mat that was too short in Bulgaria, and it was just so annoying adjusting my poses to stay on the mat. That isn't the type of yoga session I was going for. Ensuring your mat is at least six inches taller than you can make all the difference, offering ample space for any pose. Remember, the width and length of your mats have to be in line with your body and the different types of yoga you'll be practicing during your travels.

Do you know how surgeons wear colorful scrub caps? That’s their way of showing personal style. For us yogis, it’s our yoga mats that do the talking. You can't deny there's something special about unrolling a mat that resonates with your style, especially when you’re in a new environment. While functionality trumps everything, we've found that choosing a mat with a design or color that speaks to us enriches our session, making it feel more intimate and personal. Yes, these stylish mats might cost a bit more, but setting down a piece of your personality in each new location is priceless.

How to Travel With Your Yoga Mat: My Top Tips

Traveling with a yoga mat has turned into a non-negotiable for me, as essential to my trips as a comfortable pair of walking shoes. I use my mat for stretching out in between calls or grounding ourselves when we're in a new city. Here's how I carry them around the world and how we manage to keep our yoga practice going strong, no matter where we are:

Packing Your Yoga Mat

Stuffing your yoga mat into your suitcase is not the way to go. Instead, a reliable yoga mat bag or a carrying strap is essential. I always look for bags with extra pockets —they're perfect for safely tucking away the mat but also other personal belongings like wallets and passports. This setup keeps everything organized and easily accessible , which is crucial when you're moving from place to place.

Air Traveling with a Yoga Mat

In my experience, bringing a yoga mat on flights hasn't been an issue. Most airlines allowed me to bring our mats along as carry-on luggage . I've gotten into the habit of attaching our mats to our backpacks using either compression straps or simply sliding them under the elastic bands that many travel packs come with. It's a simple trick that keeps our hands free and makes moving through busy terminals much easier.

Maintaining Your Mat

I've learned that keeping my yoga mats rolled up too tightly for too long isn't the best idea . So, wherever I land, I make it a priority to find a little nook in my temporary apartment where I can spread out my mat and leave it flat. This helps the mats keep their shape and also creates a ready-to-use space that inviting for regular practice. Once, I turned a small corner of our temporary home into a serene yoga spot with just our mats and a view. Since then it became a daily ritual that grounded me in my routine.

Cleaning Your Mat

Yes, you need to clean your yoga mat , especially after a sandy beach session or a sweat-drenched workout. We stick to a simple cleaning solution — water mixed with a splash of mild soap or a few drops of essential oils . A quick spray and wipe with a soft cloth after each use does the trick. Ensuring the mat is completely dry before rolling it back up is key to preventing any mold or unpleasant odors. This is how we've saved our mats from wear and tear and kept them fresh, no matter the climate or setting.

You may also be interested in:

How Can I Fold a Yoga Mat for Travel?

Packing a yoga mat for travel is like going on autopilot for me. Here's the simple yet effective method I've perfected over the years to make sure my mats are always ready for the next destination:

• Lay it Flat: I start by spreading the mat flat on a clean surface, with the side we practice facing inward. This step is crucial for protecting the mat's surface from dirt and wear while we travel.
• Fold or Roll: Depending on the mat's material and how much space we have, I either fold it into a compact square or tightly roll it up. Folding is great for saving space, while rolling can be better for keeping your mat in shape long-term.
• Place in Luggage: I then carefully place the mat in our suitcase or yoga mat bag. If it’s folded, I lay it flat against the bottom or along the sides to keep it uncreased and ready for use as soon as we land. In a backpack or tote, we find a snug spot where it won’t get bent or twisted.

That was it for this guide! I hope you will find your perfect yoga mat and you will have taken something useful from my tips. Happy travels!

Ready To Practice Yoga On The Go?

If you want more digital nomad guides like these, sign up for our free newsletter and get upcoming articles straight to your inbox!

Sign up for our Newsletter

Receive nomad stories, tips, news, and resources every week!

100% free. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

You can also follow us on Instagram and join our Facebook Group if you want to get in touch with other members of our growing digital nomad community!

We'll see you there, Freaking Nomads!

Irene Lidia Wang

UX Designer and digital nomad. After struggling with feelings of not belonging due to her Italian-Chinese heritage, she co-founded Freaking Nomads to offer a space for people seeking their own paths.

Why you can trust Freaking Nomads

Best International Health Insurance for Digital Nomads and Remote Workers

Heymondo travel insurance review: is it good for international travelers, wise travel card review: fees, exchange rates, limits and how to use it.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Activity + Adventure
• Sports + Leisure

The 9 Best Travel Yoga Mats for Practicing on the Go, Tested and Reviewed

Stay in your flow with these supportive, portable yoga mats.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

You May Also Want

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Finding the right yoga mat is a must for making your yoga sessions the best they can be. Find one you can also travel with and that’s just icing on the cake. We tapped Mandy Ingber, yoga instructor and author of "Yogalosophy: 28 Days to the Ultimate Mind-Body Makeover " to give us the scoop on what attributes you should look for in your next mat purchase. Ingber, who has been the yogi to several A-List celebrities, including Jennifer Aniston and Kate Beckinsale, suggested we make design, comfort, grip, and portability the standards we swear by, noting to pay special attention to things like a mat’s thickness, which if too clunky, can throw off your balance, and whether or not your mat feels like a Slip 'N Slide (not in a good way) or helps you stick your poses with no problems.

Armed with all of this insider information, we tested 40 different mats during multiple yoga sessions, taking careful notes and paying special attention to attributes like excellent balance of cushion and support, great grip, and portable features that made them easy to transport. Check out our favorite yoga mats for travel below.

Best Overall

Aeromat elite yoga pilates mat.

It has a cushy and supportive feel.

The rubber smell, though slight, was bothersome.

When it comes to thickness, consider the Aeromat Elite Yoga/Pilates Mat to be the “just right” porridge, chair, and bed that Goldilocks commandeered in the classic kid’s fairytale. There’s just enough material to support and cushion your body as you flow from pose to pose, but not so much that it gets in your way or inhibits your ability to make solid contact with the floor. It also boasts a textured finish that ensures a secure grip, especially when things get wet. We were able to work up a good sweat without our hands and feet sliding around during testing. The surface also has built-in mesh to help your mat retain its shape. And when you’re ready to pack up and go: sling one of 12 calming hues (think celeste, dusty rose, sea glass green, and chai) across your shoulder (a harness is included with purchase). It’s extremely lightweight — essential for any portable exercise equipment — so toting it around will be as easy as child’s pose.

The Details: .25 x 24 x 72 inches | PVC

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Cindy Erskin

Best Overall, Runner-up

Jadeyoga jade voyager mat.

The great grip keeps hands and feet in place no matter the pose.

Sensitive to smells? This mat has a strong rubbery one that lingers.

There’s nothing worse than having to constantly flow in and out of a pose to wipe the water away from your sweaty hands or feet. The Jade Yoga Voyager solves for this in two ways: its opened-cell surface easily soaks up excess moisture while the textured natural rubber enhances grip. Also, weighing in at just over 1.5 pounds, this lightweight pick is the perfect on-the-go partner, whether you’re headed down the street or across the country for a wellness retreat . Plus it folds down to the size of a yoga block, which makes storing it in a shoulder bag or a suitcase that much easier. Even better: every time you make it to the mat, you’ll know you’re doing so with Mother Earth in mind because this eco-friendly mat not only does away with synthetic rubbers (that’s right no PVC or EVA), using the natural kind by extracting the latex sap from rubber trees, but the brand also plants a tree for every mat sold.

The Details: .06 x 24 x  68 inches | 1.5 pounds | Natural rubber

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Jennifer May
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jennifer May

Best Lightweight

Lululemon the lightweight 5mm yoga mat.

This mat is extremely lightweight to carry and offers a solid, firm grip without being sticky.

If you’re a heavy sweater, you may want to steer clear because it tends to get slippery.

Don’t let this thin, featherlike yoga mat — which is light enough to take anywhere you want to flow — fool you: it’s still supportive and cushy enough to handle every pose from camel to headstand. The hundreds of mini rectangular nubs covering the top of the mat’s surface will help guide your hand and foot grip so you can easily maintain your balance in each of these poses and beyond.

We found this mat very easy to roll out and roll up, and it was supremely lightweight to carry . One thing to note is that the closed cell design doesn’t allow for the absorption of sweat, which can make this mat extra slippery. However, the mat was easy to clean post practice — simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to keep dirt, stains, and bacteria at bay.

The Details: 26 x 71 x 19 inches | 3.3 pounds | Foam

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best for Hot Yoga

Jadeyoga travel yoga mat.

This mat has open cell construction to absorb moisture and a micro ribbed surface that provides grip for sweaty palms.

For multi-hour practice days, this thin mat may lack sufficient support.

When it comes to hot yoga, you should expect to sweat. While this may be good for helping to cool down your body, major water works also leave you open to slipping and sliding across your mat, which is a definite no-no, no matter what the position. Luckily, the Jade Yoga Travel Yoga Mat helps keep you grounded, literally, thanks to its open cell construction, which absorbs moisture, combined with its micro ribbed surface that offers a supreme grip. After testing this mat, we loved it for its exceptional grip that was suitable even with our sweaty palms. We also thought it felt lightweight, easy to carry, and we think it would stay rolled up in transit due to its grippy texture. Feel good environmental bonus: for every mat sold, the company plants a tree.

The Details: 68 x 24 x 0.125 inches | 3 pounds| Natural Rubber

Best for Beginners

Newme fitness instructional yoga mat.

It has 70 printed pictures of poses on its surface.

This mat molds to your body, leaving an imprint that doesn’t instantly go away.

Being a beginner in a room full of established yogis can feel intimidating, but newbies can practice with more confidence thanks to the NewMe Fitness Yoga Mat. Doubling as an asana crib sheet, this handy yoga mat has 70 printed pictures of poses (think crow, cow face, corpse, among others) with their corresponding names in both English and Sanskrit emblazoned across its expansive surface. So, whether you need a quick refresher mid-class or help decoding what move the teacher is asking you to perform (we’re talking about you Chaturanga Dandasana!), this mat has got your covered. We also thought this affordable mat had a great grip that kept our hands in place and felt just as grippy as mats twice the price. It was very easy to roll up and carry around as well.

The Details: 68 x 24 x 0.2 inches | 2.6 pounds | PVC

Gaiam Premium Reversible Lunar Wave Yoga Mat

It features an antimicrobial, waterproof layer that is moisture-wicking and nonslip.

This mat is on the thin side, so if your knees or wrists need extra cushion and support, go with another pick.

The small raised nodes covering this mat’s dual-textured sides gives it a gummy feeling that offers greater traction for hands and feet to keep you steady so you don’t slip. The result: a tremendous grip that verges on almost feeling sticky at times. Don’t let those little nodes fool you, though; they are tiny enough that they won’t disturb those peaceful moments on the mat, not even while you’re letting the day’s work sink in during Savasana. Did we mention we are also moonstruck by the stunningly painted design of moons in its many forms? FYI: if you are a visually stimulated person, a mat with a cool design, like this one, can make your practice more pleasurable, says Ingber. A handy bonus: with this mat you also get access to an online library of yoga content .

The Details: 8 x 24 inches | 6 millimeters | PVC, latex-free

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best Reversible

Manduka yoga mat.

It feels like you're getting two mats for the price of one, thanks to its dual-hued sides.

The mat’s surface is closed-cell, which means it won’t absorb your sweat or any bacteria, so you’ll have to be diligent about wiping it down post flow.

We love that this eco-friendly Manduka mat is not only free from harsh chemical substances but makes you feel like you are getting two mats for the price of one, thanks to the dual-hued sides. Regardless of what mood leads your color choice that day (we are keen on the lavender/fig combo), you can always count on the mat’s firm, textured surface to add stability through traction. There’s also an alignment stripe down the center of one side, which can help better guide beginner’s with hand, foot, and overall body placement.

This well-designed mat held up in a variety of classes — flow, power, and hot yoga — but we think yogis interested in a more restorative practice might do better with a more cushioned pick. Bonus points: it’s light and easy to roll and fold, which makes it a great portable option for yoga-based travel .

The Details: 68 x 24 inches | 2.5 pounds | TPE

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Megan Hartig

Best Budget

Amazon basics yoga mat.

At half an inch inches thick, this cushy mat is a godsend for those with sensitive joints.

The thickness makes it slightly tricky to transport.

Shelling out big bucks for a mat can be off-putting, especially if you’re a newbie and unsure if you’re ready to commit to getting downward-dog on the regular. Luckily this mat is very kind to your wallet—without you having to sacrifice on things that really count like durability, grip, and comfort. Those who spend lots of time pressing into their hands (think Crow or Wheel), will find the thick cushioned surface is gentler on wrists. We used it often for handstands against the wall and planks and never felt like we were slipping, even when sweaty. The ample cushioning also makes this a great choice for floor-based bodyweight moves (hello crunches!), too.

The Details: 73.2 x 24.3 x 0.5 inches | 2.45 pounds | Foam

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Michael Navarro
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Michael Navarro

Other Travel Yoga Mats We Liked

These yoga mats didn’t make our main list, but they still scored well and had a few key standout features that placed them in a league of their own.

YogaAccessories 1/4-inch Deluxe Yoga Mat : At 74 inches long, this foam-based mat is longer than traditional ones, which tend to land around 68 inches, making it more amenable to those over six feet tall. It’s also extra thick, making kneeling poses like camel, low lunge, and cat/cow more manageable, especially for those with extra sensitivity in this area. That said, this 3.6-pound pick can be a little unruly when it comes to transporting it, making it less portable for travelers.

Lululemon The Mat 3mm : This barely-there option — it’s only 0.12 inches thick — is dual-sided, boasting one that’s sticky and nubby to keep you stable and grounded, while the other is smooth and cushioned for workouts that won’t leave you drenched (think a couple of quick stretches versus a full-on power flow). While we love that it comes in six gorgeous shades and has an antimicrobial layer that keeps mold and mildew at bay, we weren’t fans of how moisture marks remained long after we finished our last flow.

Blogilates Beginner Lightweight Yoga Mat: This mat — which is lightweight, easy to roll, and comes with its own carrying case — is the perfect companion for on-the-go flows. At 4mm thick, this thinner silhouette is great for those who who may need extra stability during a superactive and balance-heavy practice (think: Power Vinyasa). As you flow from asana to asana across this 68-inch surface, you’ll be treated to a grippy, textured surface (both top and bottom) that eliminates slippage. One drawback: hair and dirt are commonplace when using this mat.

For this article, we looked over results from two different yoga mat tests, in which we tried a total of 40 yoga mats. In the first round of testing we tried 19 mats from notable brands (think Manduka, Lululemon, and Jade) through three to five yoga classes per week over a four-week testing period. During this time, we assessed each yoga mat for its design, comfort, grip, and portability — all features that yoga instructor Mandy Ingber said can make or break a yoga practice. We continued putting these mats through their paces for an additional six months to collect long-term insights.

For our second test, we tried an additional 21 yoga mats during a yoga class, paying special attention to mat thickness, cushioning, support, and how easy they were to clean. After the class was over, we rolled and packed up the yoga mats, walking around the building, and going up and down stairs to take notes on how portable they were, if they stayed rolled up during transit, how lightweight or heavy they felt to carry, and how easy (or difficult) it was to reroll the mats and pack them up.

In the end, the standout mats put the kibosh on sweat (at least most of them), weren’t overly cushy but left our joints feeling happy, and offered a stellar grip when flowing through poses. Most of all, we felt they were portable enough to travel with.

Tips for Buying a Travel Yoga Mat

Opt for something lightweight.

Lugging around a heavy mat can put a damper on any yoga practice, especially if you're traveling with it — whether that means commuting with a backpack, biking, or packing it away in your suitcase. That’s why it’s wise to reach for more lightweight styles (think under 2.5 pounds) so you can easily transport it to your final destination.

Consider stickiness

As far as yoga mats go, stickiness is equivalent to traction.  So if you’re looking to lower your risk of slipping and sliding all over the place, the stickier, the better (PVC yoga mats have a pretty high stickiness factor). Also handy for staying power: mats with a raised texture.

Plan for extra support

According to Ingber, thinner yoga mats make great travel companions, as they fold easily and usually weigh less. She also notes that barely there mats “will often leave you feeling every bit of the floor,” which is why shoring up your practice space with a towel or shirt to counter any pain points (think wrists or knees) or cushion more weight-bearing asanas is advisable.

Frequently Asked Questions

First determine what type of mat you have, as some are meant to be folded and others rolled. If the former, follow the creases if they are apparent, or simply fold it small enough to fit into the storage space you are aiming for. The latter? Roll it as tightly and evenly as possible. Ultimately, the key is to make it work for the type of luggage you are using, whether that be a backpack, a duffel bag, a tote bag, or something else.

When not traveling, consider rolling up your mat and placing it in a mat bag. This will help you keep the practice surface clean, crease-free, and for the most part unscathed, especially if you have a furry friend roaming around your home.

From Astura Yoga Mat Detox to TreeActiv Yoga Mat Spray to Moxe Yoga Mat Cleaner , there are no shortages of quality sprays lining shelves that can help eliminate sweat, stenches, and bacteria. You can also go the DIY route, mixing apple cider vinegar in a 1:4 ratio and adding a few drops of tea tree oil. No matter what route you choose, proper cleaning will help extend the life of your mat.

Workouts tend to take a backseat while traveling, and having to pack extra active gear can take up precious luggage real estate. These versatile items are not only great for traveling purposes but will also help take your workout to the next level.

Lole Lily Bag : This stylish convertible bag features separate yoga mat and water bottle compartments and can be carried as a backpack or a tote bag.

Thermoflask Stainless Steel Water Bottle : This stainless steel bottle is easy to carry, keeps water cold for hours, and has a reliable, leak-proof lid that was still in pristine condition after being dropped on the floor three times. 

Elastique Athletics L'original Leggings : These compression leggings are great for yoga and long flights thanks to their MicroPerle™ beads, which stimulate lymphatic flow in your legs and help boost circulation.

Brooks Crossback Run Bra 2.0 : The seamless design and combination of support and sweat-wicking makes this sports bra great for everyday and athletic wear.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Rozalynn S. Frazier is a multimedia journalist with more than 20 years of experience reporting on health and fitness. She is also a NASM-certified personal trainer and an avid exerciser, who routinely puts wellness tools and fitness gear through its paces to help access which products are worthy of praise. She has created content for SELF, Shape, Men’s Health, Real Simple, Oprah Daily, and Cosmopolitan, among other publications. Yoga instructor and author Mandy Ingber also contributed insights to this roundup, with all picks tested and reviewed by the team.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter , and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

• Work + Money
• Relationships
• Slow Living

7 Best Yoga Mats With Eco-Friendly Materials (2024)

The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here .

We’ve researched and tested dozens of yoga mats — these are our favorite options for their natural materials, durability, and function across a range of price points. 

If you’re one of the millions of yogis out there, you probably got into the practice while looking to destress or become more flexible. There are so many health benefits in taking the time to stretch several times a week, and the right mat, rug, or accessory can help us practice comfortably and reduce the risk of injury. We’re always searching for low-slip mats with plenty of support and just the right amount of cushion. We’re also prioritizing mat materials to ensure they are as good for our health as they are our practice.

Why use a nontoxic yoga mat?

It may come as a surprise, but regular yoga mats are often made with harmful chemicals (like PVC and phthalates). These can release toxic fumes, especially when you’re working up a sweat. These chemicals can also get into your body through your skin or lungs, and this can cause serious problems for long-term health and hormones.

Nontoxic mats, on the other hand, are made from materials like natural rubber, cork, or TPE, which are much safer. Plus, they’re usually better for the planet since they’re biodegradable or recyclable—win, win! We’ve found a few brands that are all about keeping you eco-friendly and engaged in whatever yoga, meditation, or stress relief you’re into—whether it’s a long savasana or that firefly pose you’ve been aiming to master.

Our criteria:

We’ve personally tested each of the following yoga mats, assessing the materials, quality, padding, and durability. We’ve rounded up the best mats that are perfect for restorative yoga, as well as hatha yoga and sculpt classes. We update this list regularly with our emerging favorites that meet the following criteria:

• NATURAL MATERIALS  | The brands below create yoga mats that are made with natural and non-toxic materials, aiming to stay away from harmful chemicals that are toxic to our health and hormones.
• SUPPORT  | Each yoga mat is made to support your practice by offering optimal padding and grip.
• ETHICS  | Each brand is committed to ethical production and various sustainability initiatives.

Looking for eco-friendly yoga wear, too? Head here for our favorite organic cotton leggings and yoga pants .

1. Brentwood Home

Our Pick | Organic Non-Slip Yoga Mat ($159) Price Range | $159

Brentwood Home has been making mattresses and home essentials with Los Angeles-based artisans for over 30 years, and it does so with organic, nontoxic, and natural materials free of chemical retardants, phthalates, and heavy metals. If you’ve never tried a cotton yoga mat before, you can read our editors’ review to get the scoop on this breathable, stable, comfy option.

2. Jade Yoga

Our Pick | Travel Mat ($70) Price Range | $25–$200

Strong grip? Bold colors? Non-slip? Check, check, and check with Jade Yoga ’s yoga mats. Crafted in the USA with natural rubber, they’re sustainable too, as Jade Yoga plants a tree with each purchase. (Over a million have been planted already!) Plus, it gives back to a number of causes throughout the year, including the fight against ovarian cancer. We’re big fans of the easy-to-carry travel mat, so we can get our stretch on anywhere.

Our Pick | eKO® Yoga Mat 5mm ($95) Price Range | $45–$130

No matter where you are in your yoga journey, Manduka has just what you need. The company carries mats for beginners all the way to those doing performance-minded hot yoga. (Not sure which mat is best for you? Manduka has a quiz to guide you!) Biodegradable and 99 percent latex-free, these made-for-good mats will keep you cool and comfortable in any session.

Our Pick | Performance Jute Yoga Mat ($40) Price Range | $15-$80

One of Gaiam ’s commitments is to sustainable healthy living accessible to all—especially via eco-friendly offerings. From yoga blocks made of 100 percent recycled cork to meditation chairs built from sustainable rattan and kapok, Gaiam goes beyond yoga mats. But even the brand’s mats are made with materials like jute and natural rubber, as well as being up to 8mm thick.

5. YogaKargha

Our Pick | Anti-Skid Mat ($70) Price Range | $60–$150

YogaKargha is an India-based boutique working with artisans and longtime traditions to create pieces for yoga and meditation. Each mat is individually handwoven using materials like organic cotton, natural wool and rubber, and recycled fibers. We especially love the anti-skid grips for those tougher poses and stretches. Thanks to Etsy, YogaKargha orders will be delivered to you in carbon-neutral shipping.

6. Bennd Yoga

Our Pick | Madder Root, Turmeric, and Harda Ayurvedic Yoga Mat ($170) Price Range | $170-190

As you breathe through your sun salutations, you can be confident that you won’t be absorbing any harmful chemicals from your Bennd Yoga mat. These mats are hand-loomed and medicinally dyed with ayurvedic herbs to boost circulation, improve mental performance, reduce inflammation, and support immune and digestive health. Bonus? Made with raw, ethically sourced materials, Bennd mats are naturally antibacterial, antimicrobial, and hypoallergenic.

Our Pick | Yoga Organic Meditation Pillow ($79) Price Range | $79

Okay, this isn’t a mat but we are a big fan of props in our practice and this one is a fave! Avocado is the world’s first Climate Neutral mattress and furniture company, and the same standard applies to their Yoga and Meditation pillow. It’s crafted with organic cotton sourced from India, and filled with vegan buckwheat from the United States. Finished in Los Angeles, every part of the supply chain is ethical and sustainable. We use this pillow for aligning our spines and improving our posture, even when we’re not doing yoga!

Featured image by Manduka

RELATED READING

What Is Quiet Travel—And Why Are People Seeking It Now?

Our Readers Share Their Most Surprising Life Lessons

10 Best Organic Mattresses For Non-Toxic Sleep - 2024

11 Helpful Gifts For New Parents