Tips For Buying a Camping Blanket

A camping blanket can help you stay comfortable and cozy while enjoying outdoor adventures, whether you’re lounging by the campfire, hanging out on a beach or taking in a sunset after a day of hiking. Most of the camping blankets we’ve reviewed are designed to be lightweight and packable, and many feature stuff sacks or pockets that make them easier to carry.

The main factors to consider when shopping for a camping blanket are its overall weight and size, and how you’ll use it. Depending on your exploration style, you may want a compact design that takes up minimal space in your pack, or a bigger option that can double as a ground tarp, picnic blanket or rain cover.

You’ll also need to decide what kind of insulation you prefer. Options include synthetics, down and natural fiber, with each type offering different benefits. Synthetic blankets are often more affordable than down options, and they can also feel comfortable against the skin. Down blankets are the warmest options, but they can be expensive and can lose loft over time if stored for long periods of time.

Finally, you’ll want to choose a blanket that’s designed with sustainability in mind. Rumpl is a clear leader in this area, with their original puffy blanket made from recycled plastic bottles and their down-insulated version using sustainable duck down that’s a byproduct of the food industry (no live plucking). REI’s Camp Blanket offers another solid option that prioritizes sustainability, with bluesign-approved materials deemed safe for workers, consumers and the environment.