12 Best Camping Blankets (Review) In 2021

How Do We Choose Our Selection Of Camping Blankets?

Brand – Our selection of camping blankets include brands that have a stellar reputation for producing great quality blankets specifically for use in outdoor situations. These are brands that use quality materials to ensure the blankets live up to customers’ expectations.

Reviews – The customer experience is always a good indication of a product’s performance. Reviews can be a vital tool in wheedling camping blankets that may not perform as they should. We don’t just check the good reviews. We also check some of the negative ones to see if there are any aspects of our selected camping blankets that we need to keep an eye on.

Quality – Camping blankets need to withstand a lot of rough treatment. In the wilderness they are dragged over twigs and sharp rocks, and even on beaches, sand can scratch at the outer lining causing it to wear out faster. That’s why the camping blankets in our selection must be tough and durable. This is only possible with those made from high quality materials and with high quality control standards.

Price – Camping is the one getaway that can be enjoyed by rich and poor alike. For this specific reason, we chose a selection of camping blankets to suit all budgets. We also made sure that even the camping blankets at the lower price ranges are just as good as some of the higher priced ones.

Features To Look For In Camping Blankets

Type – There are many different types of camping blankets and the main thing to look at when choosing the right type for you is how and where you plan on using it. If you like to hike to your camping destination, then you need a lighter blanket that packs well and it light and not bulky. This would include some of the synthetic fabric blankets or perhaps thermal ones. If you usually camp in extremely cold situations, then a thicker, heavier wool blanket may be a better choice.

Size – When it comes to camping blankets, size does matter. Single blankets may be easier to transport, but if you’re a little taller and bulkier than most, a single blanket may not cover enough of you to keep you warm. Then too, if you plan a romantic weekend camping trip, you most certainly want a blanket big enough to envelop you and your companion. Choose a blanket size that will give you adequate coverage. This is something you will definitely appreciate in colder climates.

Weight – The weight of your camping blanket is a matter of personal choice. Some people prefer a thick, heavy blanket when camping. Others want something light, yet warm. Then too, your choice of blanket may depend on how far you need to carry it. A few pounds of weight may not seem like much when you need to carry it a short distance. But if you need to cart it halfway up a mountain, those few extra pounds can feel like a ton.

Portability – A good camping blanket needs to pack well into its stuff sack for easy portability. That’s where a nice, light, airy blanket works well. Even though it puffs up when removed from its stuff sack, much of the air can be squeezed out when you need to repack it. This equates to a less bulky backpacking blanket that is easy to stuff into a hiking backpack.

Material – The outer material of any good camping blanket should be durable. But it should also be water resistant and windproof to keep you warm and dry in any weather. A waterproof outdoor blanket can be a lifesaver if you get caught in the rain. Thermal materials are also great features in camping blankets as they maintain the warmth in even the most extreme conditions.

Weather Support – No matter what the weather reports may tell us, the climate can change quite drastically, especially in the mountains where many people love to camp. A waterproof camping blanket can get you through an uncomfortable situation. Not only will such a blanket help keep you warm, you will also be able to remain relatively dry. Thermal blankets are a better choice in really cold situation because the technology that does into producing the fabric ensures such a blanket will preserve your body heat within the folds of the blanket.

Versatility – Most people don’t want to buy a whole bunch of different blankets just to go camping or use outdoors. That’s when an all-round blanket is a better choice. This would include a waterproof blanket that can be used for camping, picnics or to keep warm during the kids sporting events or just sitting outside on cool nights.

Types Of Camping Blankets

Wool Blankets – Wool blankets have been around for centuries and it is one of the most durable materials when used in blankets. Wool is also relatively good at repelling water and it is naturally breathable. Ordinary wool can be a little scratchy on the skin but a merino wool blanket is much softer, but also a little less durable. Merino wool is also more costly and may not always be suitable for outdoor use.

Fleece Blankets – Synthetic or polar fleece blankets are a great alternative to wool camping blankets. The material is usually more durable and incredibly soft and warm. They are usually quite inexpensive making them a very popular choice for camping blankets.

Synthetic Fabric Blankets – Camping blankets made from synthetic fabrics are often waterproof and tend to be more durable when used in outdoor situations. Many have been specifically designed to be windproof as well so you can stay warm and dry on rainy days outdoors.

Pocket Blankets – Pocket blankets are amazing. They keep you warm and dry when you need them to, and when you are done with them, they fold up into a neat small bundle that can fit in your glove compartment or you backpack. These are super handy for backpackers and hikers.

Emergency Blankets – These blankets are made from heat reflective materials and are usually very thin. They are handy to have in emergency situations, particularly where hypothermia is an issue.

Thermal Blankets – Thermal technology is everywhere. We see it in hiking apparel and for those who spend a lot of time outdoors. The same works with blankets. Thermal camping blankets may be thinner than other blankets, but the technology behind them will keep you warm, even on the coldest camping trip.

Camping Blanket FAQ

Q: Which type of Camping Blanket should I choose?

A: The type of camping blanket you choose will depend on the intended use. Do you just want a blanket in the car for when it gets cold outdoors or do you need something warmer for camping? Consider what you will be using it for and you’ll be able to choose the best one for you.

Q: What is better? Multi-purposed blankets or specific use blankets?

A: If you only need a camping blanket to go camping at a specific time of year, than a specific use one is fine. However, if you’re like most people you engage in different outdoor activities so a multipurpose blanket may be a better option.

Q: Why is a regular blanket not a good fit for camping?

A: A regular blanket is not good for camping because it simply won’t have the features needed for outdoor activity. This includes waterproof materials, weight and thermal properties.

Q: How easy are camping blankets to wash?

A: Most camping blankets are machine washable which makes them easy to keep clean. However, some heavier wool blankets may need a little extra care that only a dry cleaner can offer.

Q: Are camping blankets really water resistant?

A: The outer shell of most camping blankets is made from synthetic materials that repel water. This means the inner layer stays dry. The water resistant side is also makes these camping blankets suitable as picnic blankets.

Q: What is the difference between polar and coral fleece?

A: Coral fleece tends to be thicker than polar fleece and it also had a tendency to fray and shed. This means, coral fleece edges need to be finished while polar fleece does not. Coral fleece is also more expensive than polar fleece. Both have their virtues, but the one you choose will be based on your preferences.