Top 5 Camping Blankets for Outdoor Adventures
USGI Industries Woobie Blanket
This blanket is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for comfort and warmth in various conditions.
- We found it incredibly versatile, suitable for both camping and everyday use.
- The material is durable and weather-resistant, offering great protection against the elements.
- However, its bulkiness can be a concern for backpackers.
REDCAMP Large Waterproof Stadium Blanket
We think this blanket is ideal for spectators at outdoor events, due to its waterproof feature.
- We appreciated its generous size, providing ample coverage for two people.
- The waterproof backing keeps you dry during unexpected weather.
- However, it may feel a bit heavy for some users during long hikes.
Kelty Bestie Blanket
We found this blanket to be a great option for casual camping, with a focus on comfort.
- The soft lining makes it feel cozy, perfect for snuggling at night.
- It’s also machine washable, which simplifies cleaning after trips.
- However, its bulkiness makes it less suitable for backpacking.
Get Out Gear Down Camping Blanket
This lightweight option is great for those who prioritise packability without sacrificing warmth.
- We loved its excellent insulation properties, keeping us warm in cooler conditions.
- Its compact size when packed makes it easy to carry on long hikes.
- However, the price point may be higher than some budget alternatives.
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Down Under Outdoors Large Waterproof Extra Thick Quilted Fleece Stadium Blanket
This blanket is suited for family outings, providing warmth and comfort for all ages.
- We appreciated its extra thickness, making it incredibly warm for chilly evenings.
- The waterproof layer ensures you stay dry on damp grass.
- However, it may take up more space in your bag than other options.
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The Best Camping Blankets
When planning a camping trip, it’s essential to ensure a good night’s rest, which includes selecting a suitable camping blanket. While many campers focus on sleeping bags and air mattresses, a high-quality camping blanket is crucial for staying warm and comfortable.
Even during mild weather, nights can turn chilly, making a camping blanket invaluable. Designed to provide warmth and comfort, these blankets are also built to withstand various weather conditions, often featuring a durable, water-resistant exterior. The best camping blankets are lightweight and packable, ensuring they won’t weigh down your backpack for those who hike to their campsite.
Searching for the perfect camping blanket? You’ll need to consider the right type, materials, and weather conditions to ensure a cozy experience on your next outdoor adventure.
Choosing the Right Camping Blanket
Types of Camping Blankets
Different types of camping blankets cater to various conditions. Lightweight camping blankets are easy to pack and suitable for camping, hiking, picnics, and other outdoor activities. They are often warm enough to replace sleeping bags on shorter trips.
Sleeping quilts are designed for ultralight packing, making them more compact than traditional sleeping bags. They lack a hood and back, allowing for a more streamlined pack while still providing substantial warmth.
Emergency blankets, typically made from Mylar, are not for sleeping but are excellent for preventing heat loss in critical situations. They fold down to a very thin size, making them ideal for first aid kits during camping excursions.
Weather Considerations
Your camping blanket choice should reflect the weather conditions you’ll encounter. In colder climates, a heavy camping blanket with insulating properties is essential to keep you warm without causing overheating. Look for a blanket that balances insulation with moisture-wicking capabilities.
For warmer conditions, opt for a lightweight blanket that offers some insulation while also protecting against insects and the elements. It’s vital to choose a blanket that is both lightweight and moisture-wicking to enhance comfort.
In rainy weather, a waterproof camping blanket is essential to prevent getting wet. Materials that wick moisture away from your body are also beneficial.
Materials Used in Camping Blankets
Camping blankets come in various materials suited to different conditions, including:
- Wool: Renowned for warmth, wool blankets wick moisture away from the skin and provide insulation, even when damp. They are fire-resistant, making them a safe option at campsites. However, wool can be itchy for some, so look for Merino wool to avoid irritation.
- Cotton: Soft and comfortable, cotton blankets do not wick moisture and can become heavy when wet. While some blends with synthetic materials are better for camping, pure cotton can pose a safety risk due to its flammability.
- Fleece: This synthetic alternative to wool offers warmth and insulation while drying quickly when wet. However, it is highly flammable, so caution is needed around fires.
- Polyester: A fire-resistant synthetic option, polyester blankets are lightweight, highly insulating, and moisture-wicking, making them suitable for various weather conditions.
- Acrylic: Another synthetic material, acrylic blankets resist stains and mildew but are flammable, requiring caution when used near campfires.
- Nylon: Strong and waterproof, nylon blankets are excellent for wet conditions. Look for ripstop nylon for added tear resistance.
- Mylar: Used in emergency blankets, Mylar is lightweight and effective for trapping body heat.
Features to Consider in Camping Blankets
Size
Camping blankets come in various sizes, typically accommodating the average adult. Some are as large as a queen-size mattress, while others may be smaller, around 42 inches, which might not wrap fully around you for warmth.
If camping with a partner, consider a double blanket, which usually measures between 69 to 72 inches wide. Keep in mind that these blankets tend to be heavier and more expensive.
Weight and Packability
Some camping blankets are designed to be lightweight and packable, making them ideal for biking or backpacking. Options weighing as little as one pound can easily fit in any backpack.
Conversely, larger blankets may weigh over five pounds and can take up more space. Most fall in between, weighing around two pounds, striking a balance between portability and comfort.
Waterproofing
Camping can expose you to unexpected rain, so a waterproof blanket is a wise choice, particularly if you’ll be outside your tent. A waterproof blanket won’t absorb water, helping you stay dry and making packing easier.
Durability
A sturdy fabric shell protects the internal insulation of many camping blankets, enhancing their durability. The thickness of a blanket’s fabric is characterised by its denier rating; higher ratings indicate stronger materials. For a balance of durability and packability, look for blankets with ratings between 20D and 50D.
Some blankets are designed to be worn as ponchos, allowing you to keep your hands free while staying warm.
Additional Camping Accessories
Camping Cots
For those with back issues or camping on uneven ground, a camping cot can provide essential elevation and comfort, improving air circulation.
Camping Sleeping Pads
If a cot feels too cumbersome, a sleeping pad can offer cushioning and insulation from the cold ground, making your tent more comfortable.
Camping Hammocks
For a unique outdoor experience, consider sleeping in a camping hammock. It allows for stargazing while you drift off, perfect for mild weather.
Pricing of Camping Blankets
Budget Options
Inexpensive camping blankets generally feature materials like cotton or fleece and may lack waterproofing. They typically cost between £30 and £60 but may not be warm enough for colder conditions.
Mid-Range Choices
Mid-range blankets, often made of synthetic materials, offer some water resistance and generally range from £60 to £175. Wool options are also available for wet conditions.
Premium Selections
High-end camping blankets combine lightweight, packable styles with excellent insulation and durability, costing between £175 and £400.
Useful Tips
- Layering for Warmth: Bringing multiple blankets allows for layering, ensuring you stay warm during colder nights.
- Using Your Blanket as a Pillow: Rolling up your camping blanket can provide a makeshift pillow, saving space in your pack.
- Compression Bags for Storage: To save space, use compression bags for your camping blankets; they also help during off-season storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How warm are camping blankets?
A. Warmth varies by blanket; some are insulated for cold weather, while others are lightweight for milder conditions.
Q. How do I wash a camping blanket?
A. Always check the care label; most are machine washable, though some wool blankets may require special care.
Q. What’s the best way to pack a camping blanket?
A. Highly packable blankets can be folded like regular bedding, while others may compress better when rolled up.