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We rounded up our favorite Away luggage pieces, all based on first-hand testing.
Away
It’s hard to believe that the ultra-popular luggage brand Away is now nearly a decade old. In 2015, Away launched its colorful polycarbonate suitcases, and thanks to the brand’s influence, hard-shell carry-ons went from being a rare sight in airports to the new norm. These bags (and the imitators they’ve spawned) are now staples among stylish travelers thanks to their sleek designs, smart added features like built-in TSA-approved locks, and Instagram-worthy color options.
Away makes some of the best carry-ons and best luggage we’ve tested, but the brand also offers a wide range of chic and useful bags and travel accessories, including totes and pet carriers.
We pulled together the best Away luggage and travel accessories worthy of your consideration — all put to the test by our team of trusted product experts and travelers.
The 3 best Away pieces we tested
What makes Away luggage worth it
Away was the first luggage brand to pioneer features like integrated locks, internal compression, and roll-up laundry bags in hardshell suitcases. The brand has spawned dozens of imitators in the last few years, so this once-unique luggage design may no longer seem particularly novel. However, in our testing (and we’ve tested the suitcases numerous times over the past few years), Away’s bags trump imitators in functionality, ease of movement, and durability. In fact, Away’s bags have fared the best among hardshell suitcases in our durability testing, usually emerging with scuffs and scratches, but no major damage.
Perhaps the biggest reason to consider Away is the brand’s lifetime warranty policy. We have firsthand experience trading in an Away bag under the warranty; you get a brand-new bag and there are no costs for shipping or returning the damaged bag. An Away bag is truly a bag for life — well, or as long as the company is around.
The Carry-On
By far one of the most popular Away bags, The Carry-On has thoughtful design features like in-bag compression, TSA-approved locks, and a fold-away laundry bag.
Maliah West/Business Insider
One of the first things my husband and I registered for when we got married was a set of Away’s carry-on bags — he opted for the standard-size carry-on while I upgraded to the Bigger Carry-On. He loves his Away suitcase’s smart details: a built-in lock, an interior compression system, and a fold-away laundry bag. The smaller size is particularly helpful on smaller international airlines: on a Ryanair flight in Italy, he didn’t have to check this bag, but I got dinged with my Bigger Carry-On. We’re both a little upset that the brand did away with the option to add a removable battery. I thought that really set Away luggage apart from others, but I can see why they did, since airlines are really cracking down on having batteries in the luggage hold and overhead bins. —Lauren Savoie, deputy editor
I have always hated packing, especially the dreaded experience of trying to squish my clothes and shoes down to zip up my suitcase. Using Away’s Carry-On showed me that packing can be easy and even fun. The Carry-On comfortably fits five days of outfits with room for more. As a fan of all things bright and unique, I also love the range of colors that Away offers. The Away Carry-On is a luggage staple that won’t let you down. —Kinsley Searles, Insider Reviews contributor
The Bigger Carry-On
For those who want a little more packing space and take more cross-country flights than tiny jumper planes, the Bigger Carry-On is an excellent option.
Lauren Savoie/Business Insider
While my husband opted for the smaller Carry-On, I sized up to the Bigger Carry-On because I tend to travel with more stuff. It’s not a dramatic difference in the sizing over the Carry-On, but I love that it has all the same features and offers me a bit more room when packing. I actually recently had the opportunity to exchange the bag under the brand’s warranty program when the lining started to tear after 100+ flights with the bag. I found the process really simple: customer support responded to my request within 24 hours, and after I sent photos of the damage, they sent me a brand new bag (I got to choose the color). All I had to do was ship back my damaged bag once the new bag arrived, and Away provided the shipping label at no charge to me. The whole experience was incredibly positive and made me feel really great about the quality of the brand. —Lauren Savoie, deputy editor
As a notorious overpacker, I’ve experienced many trips that involve me attempting to maneuver several suitcases down large flights of stairs, through crowded airports, and onto small overnight trains. So it’s safe to say that I need all of the space I can possibly get when traveling. I purchased the Bigger Carry-On at the same time as the smaller Carry-On and I love that the bigger version offers slightly more space while still being able to fit in the overhead compartments of most major airlines. I’ve already taken this carry-on with me on several small getaways over the last year and can’t wait to travel with it internationally. —Maliah West, former home & kitchen reviews fellow
The Bigger Carry-On Flex
The Bigger Carry-On Flex expands to reveal an additional 2.25″ of space available when fully flexed—perfect for those last-minute items.
Lauren Savoie/Business Insider
After trying out this bag in our latest round of luggage testing, it’s my new go-to. I love that the expansion features allow me to still travel with only a carry-on, but not have to worry about fitting souvenirs and other items I pick up in my travels into my suitcase. The expansion panels also make it much easier to close the bag: I haven’t had to wrestle the suitcase closed like I usually do. Instead, I typically pack it with the expansion open, and then zip up the expansion panel when the suitcase is fully closed. I think this will result in a lot less wear and tear on the bag from overpacking. Keep in mind that you may be asked to check the bag when it’s fully expanded, though this has yet to happen to me. —Lauren Savoie, deputy editor
The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition
Aluminum luggage is extra durable and, let’s be honest, looks extra cool.
Hannah Freedman/Business Insider
I love this carry-on so much that I named it the best aluminum luggage in our guide to the best carry-on luggage. Built to last, this bag is seriously sturdy and has come out of several trips completely unscathed. What most impressed me, though, was the huge amount of packing space. I took this bag on a weekend ski trip and was able to fit my long underwear, sweaters, ski pants, gloves, and a light jacket on just one side. I easily fit a weekend’s worth of everyday clothes on the other side. The only downside is the weight. At just under 11 pounds, this bag is heavy, so I tend to use it more for car and train trips. —Hannah Freedman, former associate travel editor
The Large
The Away Large has all of the same features we know and love in the brand’s carry-on bags, including interior organization, 360° spinner wheels, and more thoughtful details.
Hannah Freedman/Business Insider
I’ve been using The Large Away suitcase for about five years as my main checked bag. Though I tend to try to fit everything in a carry-on whenever possible, there are times that’s just not feasible, and this bag has come in seriously handy for everything from monthlong treks through Asia to big ski trips in Europe when I needed to fit all my gear, plus my clothes. Checked bags, in particular, need to be durable since they get tossed around, and though it has a few marks and scratches, this suitcase has held up really well. I also like that the Carry-On nests inside it for easy storage. —Hannah Freedman, former associate travel editor
The Pet Carrier
The third-party crash-tested Away Carrier is loaded with features for the safety, comfort, and convenience of you and your cat or small dog.
Shoshi Parks/Business Insider
Editor’s note: At the time of this update, the pet carrier was out of stock with a waitlist. We’ve left it in our review in case it comes back in stock before our next update.
Away’s sleek Pet Carrier has a roomy interior fitted with a plush sherpa mat and privacy screens, and plenty of pocket space on the exterior to hold essentials. Its padded shoulder strap is comfortable and you can slip its luggage strap over the handle of a carry-on for easy rolling through an airport or train station. Best of all, this carrier is as safe as they come: it’s been both crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety. I ended up naming it the best for car travel in our guide to the best cat carrier. —Shoshi Parks, former Insider Reviews contributor
The Everywhere Bag
The Everywhere Bag is a great easy duffle for weekend getaways. Made from durable nylon, it is available in several colors.
Kinsley Searles/Business Insider
The Everywhere Bag is a fantastically flexible addition to Away’s luggage line-up. I have used it as a work tote, a personal item, and an overnight bag. This bag’s versatility is incredible: features like a padded shoulder strap and luggage sleeve make it equally at home at the gym or at the airport. Whatever you use it for, I definitely recommend this bag for both daily use and traveling. It lives up to its name: you can take it everywhere. —Kinsley Searles, Insider Reviews contributor
The Insider Packing Cubes
The Insider Packing Cubes help you store items efficiently in your suitcase.
Emily Hochberg/Business Insider
I’ll admit it: I always thought packing cubes were pointless. I stubbornly stuck with this idea for my entire life until it was time to pack for a monthlong trip for my destination wedding. There were just too many things to organize, so I tried Away’s Insider Packing Cubes Set.
With six options in varying sizes, I was able to use each cube for a type of clothing — dresses used a large cube, swimsuits a smaller one. During the course of this trip, I stayed in seven hotels, and seven times the cubes not only helped me find what I wanted to wear, but made it easier to pack up quickly when it was time to move on. And, when I overpacked and had to remove items from my Large (see above), all I had to do was pull out a cube and throw it in my carry-on to remove weight quickly. For long trips especially, this packing cube convert thinks these are totally worth it. —Emily Hochberg, former travel editor
Similar to Emily, I used to be a packing cube skeptic, but now I don’t travel anywhere — even for 1-2 night trips — without them. Away’s are flexible and stretchy and keep all my different clothes neatly organized. I own them in black, but if I could go back I’d choose one of the lighter colors so it’s easier to spot the contents behind the mesh cover. —Connie Chen, former senior reporter
As a digital nomad, I’ve found Away’s packing cubes to be an easy way to stay organized. They are spacious and feature a sturdy mesh lining to keep your clothes fresh (and also to let you see what’s inside). Best of all, these bags can really fit a lot of clothes. I own the set of four, which comes with two slim and two wide cubes and is just right for most of my trips. Together they weigh just 0.32 kg, so they don’t add much weight and can be stored flat. — Jamie Ditaranto, Insider Reviews contributor
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The Business Insider Reviews team has tested hundreds of pieces of bedding — including my testing of over 100 mattresses — to find the best options for your personal needs.
Erin Brains
Are you seeking the best mattress or other sleep products to solve your sleep woes? You’re not alone. During Sleep Week 2025, Business Insider’s Reviews team is tackling your toughest sleep questions. Our sleep experts have tested hundreds of sleep products and understand that quality rest is essential for mental and physical well-being.
From overheating to shoulder pain to partner disturbances, we’ve gathered your most pressing sleep concerns and matched them with personalized solutions to help you — and others like you — finally get the restorative sleep you deserve.
I’m a side/back sleeper who wakes up with shoulder pain and tends to sleep hot. My wife sleeps exclusively on her side and feels cold at night. What sleep products would accommodate both our needs while addressing my shoulder discomfort? – Spencer
Based on your shoulder pain and different sleeping preferences, I’d recommend the Tempur-Pedic Cloud mattress. Since you’re a combination sleeper who runs hot, this memory foam mattress will supply outstanding pressure relief for your shoulders while adjusting to your position changes throughout the night. Read my full Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress review.
If you’re not ready to replace your mattress, addressing your shoulder pain might be as easy as improving your spinal alignment during sleep. The Coop Sleep Goods Eden Cool+ Adjustable Pillow allows you to customize the loft height, ensuring your head and neck are properly supported when side sleeping, which reduces pressure on your shoulder joints. This proper alignment can significantly reduce morning shoulder discomfort. The pillow’s cooling properties will also address your tendency to overheat. Check out our guide to the best cooling pillows for more ideas.
Alternatively, consider adding a memory foam mattress topper to your existing bed. A 2-to-3-inch topper can supply the pressure relief your shoulders need by allowing them to sink slightly while supporting the rest of your body. The GhostBed Memory Foam Topper is your best bet since it keeps you cool. Visit our best mattress topper guide for more options.
I’m a hot sleeper constantly disturbed by my husband’s movements in bed. I alternate between sleeping flat on my back without a pillow and curling up on my side with my soft pillow. What sleep product would minimize motion transfer so I can sleep undisturbed while accommodating my varying sleep positions and tendency to overheat? — Cori T.
I use a bowling ball and vibrometer to test how well a mattress dampens movement, known as motion isolation. The better the motion isolation, the less you’ll feel your partner tossing and turning.
Erin Brains
A split king mattress would be perfect for someone sensitive to your partner’s movements — essentially giving you two separate beds side by side. This virtually eliminates motion transfer while allowing you to share the bedroom space. Saatva and Purple are two top brands offering split king options for all mattresses.
If that’s not appealing, I highly recommend the Leesa Sapira Hybrid Mattress. In my testing, it provides exceptional motion isolation while accommodating both your back and side sleeping positions. The hybrid construction supplies the ideal balance of support when lying flat and pressure relief when you curl up on your side.
The Leesa Sapira also features cooling technology in its top layers that address your tendency to sleep hot. The breathable foam and airflow through the coil system help dissipate body heat throughout the night, keeping you comfortable regardless of your sleeping position. Read my full Leesa Sapira Hybrid Mattress review.
I constantly sleep hot despite having a Sleep Number bed that I can adjust for body support. What solutions would help me stay cool overnight while using my adjustable mattress? – Kandy R.
While the Sleep Number Climate360 provides advanced cooling technology, its $10,000 price tag isn’t practical for more people. Fortunately, you can transform your current Sleep Number bed into a cooler sleep environment with strategic bedding choices.
Start with the Nest Bedding Easy Breather Pillow, which uses breathable shredded memory foam and a cooling cover to help dissipate heat from your head and neck area. You can also adjust the fill for a custom feel. Pair the pillow with the Buffy Breeze Comforter, which is designed specifically for hot sleepers and has temperature-regulating properties.
Complete your cooling system with high-quality cooling sheets. Look for alternatives made from natural fibers, like Tencel, cotton percale, or bamboo, which provide better breathability than synthetic materials. These sheets wick moisture away from your body and allow for better airflow throughout the night, helping you maintain a comfortable temperature while enjoying the customizable support of your Sleep Number mattress. Check out our guide to the best cooling sheets and our roundup of the best cooling products for better sleep.
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Cacique/Parade/Business Insider
As someone who’s passionate about stylish plus size clothing, I can tell you that a flattering fit begins with the right pair of underwear. The most comfortable pairs won’t roll down your stomach, dig into your skin, or feel like total granny panties. To find the best plus size underwear, I spoke to designers, stylists, models, and fellow fat folks on which brands are getting it right.
One pair I’ve worn over the last two years is the Parade Dream Fit High Rise Boyshort. And while I love the full-coverage biker short look, I’m also collecting more lingerie pieces like the Curvy Couture Allover Lace High Cut Thong. I usually avoid thongs, but I appreciate its true-to-size fit and a cotton-lined gusset that keeps my private area protected.
Below are more of our favorite inclusively sized women’s underwear, which we love for their comfort, shapely cuts, and hygienic designs.
Best affordable briefs: Wirarpa Cotton High Waisted Briefs
Amazon/Business Insider
Body Neutral content creator Lindsey Baker started wearing these Amazon undies after her search for an affordable (and better fit) alternative to major brands on the market.
“[Wirarpa’s] high-waisted briefs give me the best coverage for my apron belly and stay put no matter what activity I’m doing,” says Baker. The extra thick stretch band fits snugly on the stomach to avoid fabric rolling down, and the cotton fabric is breathable and comfortable for a full-coverage fit that moves with your body.
Best cotton briefs: Slick Chicks Highwaist Panty with Velcro Fasteners
Slick Chicks/Business Insider
Inclusive adaptive-wear brand Slick Chicks proves that the industry could use more underwear innovation like theirs. The breathable cotton lining of these bottoms protects you from leaks, and the Velcro fasteners make self-dressing or dressing with assistance easier.
Best moisture-wicking briefs: Goddess Keira Full Coverage Briefs
Amazon/Business Insider
Long live the granny panty — after all, many of the plus-size shoppers we interviewed for this guide agreed that full-coverage briefs are the way to go. These stretchy, silky bottoms from Goddess offer the comfort of a granny panty without the loose fit. Its ultra-soft microfiber material moves with you and absorbs moisture. With a vintage-inspired silhouette, you can embrace this traditional style with its matching Goddess Keira Satin Side Support Bra.
Best cheeky briefs: Cacique Comfort Bliss Cheeky Panty
Lane Bryant/Business Insider
These super soft briefs sit high around the waist and hips, but still offer a subtle booty moment from their cheeky cut. They’re perfect if you don’t necessarily want to wear a thong but still want less coverage in the rear.
Best gender neutral briefs: TomboyX Iconic Briefs
Amazon/Business Insider
You can wear any underwear regardless of your gender. However, if you’re looking for a brief that takes into consideration transitioning and multiple genitalia at once, TomboyX should be on your radar. Each product from the brand is fit-tested on diverse bodies that inform their tailoring. These briefs are designed for breathable movement and offer extra space in the gusset.
Read more about this inclusive brand (including the fit on different body types) in our full TomboyX review.
Best brief multipack: Hanes Just My Size Women’s Cotton Brief Underwear
Amazon/Business Insider
Whenever in doubt, Hanes cotton underwear gets the job done. This bundle is one of my favorites that I’ve been wearing (and repurchasing) for over 10 years. On my first day of college, I awkwardly realized that I didn’t pack enough underwear and quickly ordered a pack of these from Amazon. Thankfully, they arrived before I even started classes. Make sure you order your true size to keep the band from rolling down.
Best affordable thong: Auden Seamless Pull-On Thong
Target/Business Insider
Love them or hate them, thongs are a style of underwear that almost every woman has worn at least once (though I’m a big proponent for the thongs on all genders). This seamless thong from Target’s brand Auden is comfortably stretchy and affordable to boot. Your cheeks will be on full display, but you don’t have to fear thin material digging into your body with the full-coverage design in the waistband.
Best lace thong: Curvy Couture Allover Lace High Cut Thong
Curvy Couture/Business Insider
Stylist Monet Maxwell recommends Curvy Couture underwear for its comfort and fit. The soft lace on this thong is semi-sheer for modest coverage in the right places, with glimpses of skin throughout. Cotton lines the gusset for the health of your privates and the breathable material offers a seamless look for a smooth base. I wore this thong under my Gia/IRL Gabrielle Maxi in Black during NYFW for that “no underwear” look without actually going commando, and they stayed up all day.
Best cotton thong: Snag Tights Thong
Snag Tights/Business Insider
Fat fashion digital creators Hannah Ogilvie and Lindsey Baker both recommend Snag Tights’ underwear for its inclusive size range and their focus on body positivity among fat and differently abled people. This thong offers ample coverage in the front with a snug high-waisted fit to minimize fabric rolling down the stomach. Consider sizing yourself based on waist and hip measurements to find the best fit.
Best moisture-wicking thong: Harper Wilde Bliss Thong
Harper Wilde/Business Insider
Being fat in the summertime usually means sweaty body parts, folds, and chafing — it’s the reality of having a big body. That’s why you need undies that can keep up with you and curb moisture without irritating your private areas. This thong is able to stretch to fit around large stomachs and behinds without bunching up, and its cotton-lined gusset offers more moisture-wicking breathability.
Best mesh: Adore Me Rosa Solo Thong Plus
Adore Me/Business Insider
Move over lace — mesh is taking over as the sexiest lingerie option. The stretchy fabric on this thong keeps it secured on your hips without rubbing uncomfortably against the skin. Consider sizing down, as the fit skews slightly larger with the 4X fitting a 28W in bottoms.
Best thong multipack: Amazon Essentials Pack of 6 Thongs
Amazon/Business Insider
As a skeptic of plus-size fashion on Amazon, I was pleasantly surprised by the comfort and coverage of these soft and stretchy no-show thongs from the Amazon Essential collection. Its buttery material is cut to rest on the low hip for ample coverage in the gusset area. If you have a wide-set stomach or apron belly, consider sizing up to avoid material rolling down the stomach.
Best affordable bikini: Parade Silky Mesh High Rise Cheeky
Parade/Business Insider
Parade entered the underwear scene in 2019 (under the tutelage of founder and former CEO Cami Téllez) to fill a gap in the size exclusive intimates market, and it’s become a staple in many fat folks’ underwear drawer ever since. I keep these high-rise cheeky panties in heavy rotation and always pick up a pair during sales because they offer decent coverage in the gusset area and give the illusion of a bigger bottom.
Granted, I’ve found Parade can be hit or miss for its vanity sizing and slow-to-develop size extensions. Ultimately though, their comfortable materials, cute styles, and low prices keep plus size shoppers like content creator Emmy Zorbitz and myself coming back for more.
Best seamless bikini: Knix Zones+ Ultra Leakproof Bikini
Knix/Business Insider
Knix is known for its super absorbent period panties. These ultra leakproof bikini undies have become my favorite around “that” time of the month when blood and sweat become a non-stop issue. Its material molds comfortably on the body and the waistband rests above the hip for a secure seamless base.
Fat Body Pro Tip: Whether you have hyperhidrosis or you’re sweaty from humid weather, content creator Abby Bible advises that period panties are ideal for any time you need extra moisture control in the crotch area.
Best stretchy bikini: Universal Standard UltimateS Mid Rise Bikini
Taking a page from her book, I tried these mid-rise bikini panties for a more cheeky cut that still offered ample coverage in the gusset while stretching with every move of my body. The modal material is extra soft and comfortable combined with the cotton and elastane blend for the best stretchy plus size underwear that’s both breathable and moisture-wicking.
Best color variety: Women’s Stretch Cotton Bikini
Nordstrom/Business Insider
MeUndies makes it easy to have a regular influx of your favorite characters in your top drawer with its subscription model and bundle offers. The cotton stretch bikini bottoms are designed with a no-roll elastic waistband that stays secure yet flexible to rest on large stomachs and bottoms. Each pair is made with MicroModal and elastane for a soft and breathable texture. If you have excess skin and fat around the lower abdomen, otherwise known as a panniculus or “FUPA,” consider sizing up for proper coverage.
Best luxury bikini: SKIMS Ultrafine Mesh Bikini
SKIMS/Business Insider
SKIMS still has work to do regarding extended-size offerings and gusset coverage. However, many fat shoppers and size influencers that we spoke to (including Bible) agreed that they gravitate towards this brand for a trendy luxurious option.
This mesh bikini brief fits true to size and offers medium coverage with a 100% cotton gusset for the security and health of your private parts. Complete the sexy sheer look with the plus size-friendly Ultra Fine Mesh Scoop Bra.
Best bikini multipack: Amazon Essentials Cotton Bikini Brief
Amazon/Business Insider
Another win for Amazon plus size underwear. These bikini briefs have a classic fit and inexpensive price. I like how the elastic doesn’t dig into my skin and the cotton material lasts with each wash — no matter how long I keep these durable undies in rotation.
Best affordable boyshorts: Auden Seamless Boy Shorts
Target/Business Insider
Over a dozen people in a Reddit thread discussion for plus-size shoppers called out these seamless boy shorts from Target’s brand, Auden. This comfortable and affordable pair are easily the best budget plus-size underwear for their stretchy material that doesn’t roll down your stomach. If you prefer a snug fit, I recommend sizing down since the 4X were slightly large on a US 28-30 bottom.
Best cotton boyshorts: Comfort Choice Cotton Boyshort
Amazon/Business Insider
Whether you’re looking for a simple pair of boyshorts for lounging around the house or you need a durable pair of undies for a 6X+ body, this multipack is for you. Each pack features three 100% cotton boyshorts with 3-inch inseams — so you don’t have to worry about thigh chafing or tight material constricting your stomach. Its waistband is made with Spandex for a stretchy and secure fit.
Best high-waisted boyshorts: Parade Dream Fit High Rise Boyshort
Parade/Business Insider
Zorbitz says some of her favorite plus size underwear comes from Parade. In particular, she likes their high-rise boyshorts the best. They fit snugly like a pair of biker shorts with the breathability of mesh and cotton.
“They’re the perfect combo of coverage and comfort — I have both the 3X and 4X and don’t see a huge difference in the sizing,” says Zorbitz. However, if you have a wide-set stomach and a large butt, you should size up to avoid the band rolling down.
Best lace boyshort: Hanky Panky Plus Size Signature Lace Boyshort
Hanky Panky/Business Insider
Hanky Panky is a popular intimate brand that celebrities like Rihanna and Cameron Diaz swear by, but it’s often forgotten in the plus size community. The largest size is a bit oversized and fits a 24W-26W bottom, so there’s wiggle room for any fat shoppers who usually shop a 4XL. And yes, this is me officially begging Hanky Panky to expand their sizing more so I can wear these lacy options even when I’m bloating or in between sizes. Its lacy material stays up on the body while creating a confidence-boosting effect.
Best boyshorts for exercise: American Eagle AEO 6″ Temp Tech Boxer Brief
American Eagle/Business Insider
Boyshorts are often described as a “women’s boxer,” but their long inseams can suit anyone dressing for the gym. These temperature regulating boxer briefs from American Eagle have an interior pouch that offers space for additional jockstrap packing.
Lauren Herndon reaches for these as their everyday boxer brief with a cooling material that feels like a second skin. “Besides the comfort aspect, these boxer briefs also have an anti-roll waistband which keeps them from sliding down and in place while sitting & standing,” says Herndon.
Best boyshort multipack: Woxer Women’s Boxer Briefs
Woxer/Business Insider
Woxer designed these boxer briefs for women with a shorter inseam than traditional male boxers to eliminate gapping in the gusset. The ultra-soft modal gives a soft, silk-like feel without chafing or digging into the skin. While the bottoms are snug for a secure fit, the waistband is loose-fitting to support a lot of movement — whether you’re working out, sleeping, or running errands.
Best affordable hipster: Cacique Intimates Cotton Hipster Panty
Lane Bryant/Business Insider
Bible says that she mostly shops at Lane Bryant for underwear. “I know that their underwear is going to fit me comfortably and cover all the things I want to be covered,” she says, despite the plain designs leaving something to be desired. These hipster panties offer full coverage while keeping the sexy look of a high-leg cut.
Best cotton hipster: Calvin Klein Modern Cotton Plus Hipster
Calvin Klein/Business Insider
Similarly to her Snag Tights collection, content creator Ogilvie has an underwear drawer filled with plus size Calvin Klein underwear. “I was honestly so surprised to see Calvin Klein catered to plus sizes with their iconic underwear, and I knew I had to try it to feel like a proper ‘It Girl’,” she says. These panties protect private areas with a full gusset and rear coverage.
Best stretchy hipster: B-Smooth Seamless Hi-Cut Panty
Amazon/Business Insider
Emma Zac, founder of size-inclusive vintage boutique Berriez, goes hard for her underwear and swears by these hi-cut panties from Wacoal, which she’s been wearing for eight years. After trying them for myself, I can confirm that these seamless undies fit securely, and they don’t show when paired with tight clothing. Consider sizing up if you have a wide-set stomach or apron-belly that needs extra coverage.
Best lace hipster: Adore Me Diara Hipster Panty
Adore Me/Business Insider
In 2022, AdoreMe was purchased by Victoria’s Secret & Co, proving that plus-size bodies are a valuable demographic for lingerie. Lace appliques adorn the front of this hipster underwear for a traditional sexy look upgraded with cheeky mesh paneling. Its thin lightweight material rests on the lower hip with minimal coverage in the gusset, however, those with large FUPAs should consider sizing up to avoid over-revealing.
Best hipsters for sleep: Torrid Leakproof Cotton Mid Rise Hipster Panty
Torrid/Business Insider
Whether you’re a sweaty sleeper or prone to waking up with a surprise period, you’ll want to pick up a few pairs of these leakproof hipster panties for bedtime. The mid-rise and medium-coverage bottoms are made from naturally absorbent cotton. You can twist and turn all night and they’ll stay put.
Best hipster multipack: EBY 3-Pack Hipster Briefs
Nordstrom/Business Insider
This multipack of plus size hipsters have a chic, seamless look that’s perfect for any outfit that calls for a smooth base. They’re soft and stretchy with a cotton-lined gusset added for protection of your private areas.
FAQs on the best plus size underwear
How do I choose the right size?
As a fat person, shopping is already a challenge with availability issues, but another main concern is the discrepancy in size guides. Knowing your exact waist and hip size measurements will make it easier to translate your needs to brands’ size guides. If you don’t have your exact measurements, you can base your “proper fit” on the underwear you currently own that fits the best.
Another way to choose the right fit is by selecting underwear from brands that cater to fat bodies. “It is key to fit on a live model who is representative of the body type that the product is aimed at,” says Liesl Goodman, Elomi and Goddess designer.
What are the best materials for underwear?
Vaginal hygiene and genitalia health should always be front of mind when selecting underwear regardless of size. One key way to keep your body health in mind is with underwear made from cotton, specific to the gusset lining where your private parts rest. Krista Molinaro, Senior Merchant at Bare Necessities recommends cotton above all. “It’s breathable and good for your downstairs health because it keeps you comfortable and cool,” says Molinaro.
Nylon, Spandex, and Modal are other commonly used fabrics for underwear that many plus size underwear brands gravitate towards for softness and stretch. “Nylon is a breathable, super soft, second-skin synthetic. It comfortably molds to your body while offering a bit of stretch,” adds Molinaro.
What’s the best plus size underwear that won’t roll down?
Every fat person knows the struggle of feeling their underwear slowly roll down the stomach, only to bunch up and fall into whatever bottoms you’re wearing. Certain styles with less material around the waistband like hipsters, thongs, and bikinis are usually prone to rolling down the stomach. Instead choose high-rise underwear that’s true to size or slightly sized up to guarantee a secure fit.
What underwear cut is best for a big stomach?
If you have a wide-set stomach that usually calls for more material, look towards high-cut or high-waisted underwear that keep in mind your body rolls, folds, and crevices. Parade’s Silky Mesh High Rise Cheeky underwear is a prime example from this list that’s designed to fit across big stomachs and large backsides.
