Whether you’re on solo maneuvers deep in the backcountry or glamping with everything including the kitchen sink, one common thread joins you together: Being cold is miserable. And while we’ve always packed sleeping bags and camp slippers for evenings aways from home, the best camping blankets add an extra layer of warmth and versatility that once you’ve enjoyed, you’ll always find space for in your pack. Yes, many outdoorsy purists will scoff at this frivolous extra, but the technology behind them has evolved and designs are now doubling as ponchos, extra quilts, waterproof seating and classic knee warmers that pack down smaller while offering an extra dose of cozy whatever the conditions.
Stay cozy in the great outdoors with the best camping blankets.
There are now countless camping blankets available, from luxury merino wool to recycled fibers and ultralight mountaineering designs. But choosing the right option for your needs can be confusing, which is why we’ve tested the best camping blankets in the business and whittled it down to the following nine. Take your pick and we’re sure you’ll enjoy it for countless seasons to come.
- Best Camping Blanket Overall: Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket
- Best Budget Camping Blanket: Kelty Bestie Blanket
- Best All-Natural Camping Blanket: Filson Mackinaw Wool Blanket
- Best Camping Blanket For Sleep: Zenbivy Light Quilt 10 Degrees
- Best Ultralight Camping Blanket: Western Mountaineering Cloud 9 Comforter
- Best Car Camping Blanket: Ignik Topside Heated Blanket
- Best 4-In-1 Camping Blanket: Voited CloudTouch
- Best Camping Blanket For Picnics: Matador Pocket Blanket
- Best Two-Person Camping Blanket: Therm-A-Rest Argo Blanket
Amazon
Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket
Insulation: Synthetic | Shell: Recycled polyester | Weight: 1.8 pounds | Machine washable: Yes
Camping blankets wouldn’t be as popular as they are today were it not for Rumpl. The Oregon-based label got its start back in 2013 when Kickstarter funding enabled them to launch the Original Puffy Blanket. To say it was a success is rather an understatement, and they’ve added many variations, and countless patterns and collaborations since, but for us, the NanoLoft hits the sweet spot for insulation, packability, water resistance and the use of post-consumer recycled materials in the shell.
Unlike its predecessor that uses traditional siliconized insulation, the NanoLoft blanket’s recycled fill mimics the qualities of down to efficiently trap warmth no matter the conditions. Its water-resistant shell avoids disaster if faced with a light shower, and strategic clips allow you to wear it as a cape for hands-free comfort. While the classic one-person size is ideal for bundling up while camping, there’s also a smaller travel version for even more packability.
Pros:
- Stylish
- Packable and practical
- Recycled content
Cons:
- The competition has caught up
Amazon
Kelty Bestie Blanket
Insulation: Synthetic | Shell: Polyester taffeta | Weight: 1.5 pounds | Machine washable: Yes
Not to be confused with those ultra-packable camping blankets made from NASA inspired technology, a no-frills option like the Kelty Bestie still provides loads of comfort and warmth when you need it most. The blanket’s polyester-blended shell delivers next-to-skin comfort while Cloudloft insulation supplies lightweight warmth. It’s durable, lightweight and easy to transport using the included stuff sack. As is tradition for Kelty, the Bestie comes in some fun colors and patterns, and it makes an ideal option whether you’re camping in the backyard or tailgating before the big game.
Pros:
- Bargain price
- Lifetime warranty
- Super warm
Cons:
- No-frills
Filson
Filson Mackinaw Wool Blanket
Insulation: Wool | Shell: N/A | Weight: 5.5 pounds | Machine washable: No
The first Filson outfitters opened in 1897 to cater to the needs of the thousands of fortune hunters stampeding into Seattle. The Mackinaw blanket, along with the iconic Cruiser jacket, was and remains a core favorite, and it’s appearance has barely changed since the gold rush.
The blanket, whether used in the tent, camper, car or at home, offers a huge amount of warmth from the 100% USA virgin wool. It’s a seriously durable and exceptionally toasty design that offers a generous 90 x 72 inches of coverage. The Mackinaw is definitely a no-frills option, but the American-made blanket is finished with a serged edge—a continuous wrap of yarn—to prevent fraying, and will, if kept away from moths, last for decades.
Pros:
- It’s a classic for a reason
- Heavy-duty insulation
- Made in America
Cons:
- Costly
- Bulky if traveling light
Zenbivy
Zenbivy Light Quilt 10 Degrees
Insulation: 800-fill down | Shell: 20-denier nylon taffeta | Weight: 2.1 pounds (regular) | Machine washable: Yes
Zenbivy has been making a name for itself with its innovative modular camp bed systems, featuring inflatable pads, sheets with insulated hoods and quilts. Here, we’re just focusing on the quilt as it works brilliantly as a toasty warm, soft and versatile blanket or sleeping bag. The zipper-less design has a clever drawstring foot box that converts it from blanket to semi-enclosed sleeping bag. This is a game changer for those of us who overheat easily or roll around at night and dislike the feeling of being trapped in our bags.
There’s also a series of clips for attaching to the Zenbivy sheets, and a drawstring that can cinch in the bag around your neck for added warmth. We tested the 10-degree quilt in early fall and found it to be incredibly warm, so fair weather campers should opt for the 25-degree option. It’s all extremely comfortable and versatile, and we can’t guarantee you won’t end up buying the complete set to transform your backpacking sleep. The quilt is machine washable, but with a few asterisks, as down requires a bit of special attention. Luckily, Zenbivy has thorough washing instructions for all of their gear.
Pros:
- Exceptional warmth
- Ingenious design
- Compact
Cons:
- Expensive as a complete system
Backcountry
Western Mountaineering Cloud 9 Comforter
Insulation: 800-fill down | Shell: Nylon | Weight: 1.56 pounds (twin) | Machine washable: Yes
If you’re one of the many hikers who struggle to fall asleep in the confines of a sleeping bag, consider upgrading to a blanket alternative like the Western Mountaineering Cloud 9 Comforter. Weighing in at just over 1.5 pounds, it packs 800-fill power down in a box stitch construction that evenly distributes feathers to prevent unwanted clumping. Available in three sizes (twin, queen, king), the shell fabric is just as soft as it is durable, and that durability comes backed by an unlimited warranty. If you have intentions of replacing your sleeping bag with this blanket, don’t be surprised if you never switch back—countless backpackers tout the wonders of camping blankets that retain warmth without the well-known restrictions of a mummy bag. And when the time comes to cozy up for the night, simply use the blanket’s corner ties to attach it to a pad.
Pros:
- Wonderful warmth-to-weight ratio
- Generous coverage
- Sleeping bag replacement
Cons:
- Pricey
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REI
Ignik Topside Heated Blanket
Insulation: Recycled polyester, 12V heating element | Shell: Recycled polyester | Weight: 3.6 pounds | Machine washable: No
If you’re a camper van owner toying with the idea of installing an expensive heater system to your van, this heated blanket (52 x 72 inches) could be a simple, relatively affordable alternative. It runs off a 12V battery—plug into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter, or via a suitable battery pack from Jackery, Anker or Goal Zero, and you can enjoy up to 48W of heat for 10 hours.
This doesn’t sound much, but a human only kicks out 75W of heat. Trust us when we say this blanket is toasty warm, and may have also made it onto this reviewer’s indoor bed.
There’s three heat zones, with extra warmth at the head and feet, the smart controller remembers your preferred settings, has safety shut off and timers and the material features a 100% post-consumer recycled polyester shell and insulation. Annoyingly, however, the heating element can’t be removed to make cleaning easier, so you can only spot clean rather than machine wash.
Pros:
- Serious warmth
- Adjustable control
- Heated zones
Cons:
- Difficult to clean
- No built-in battery
MOST POPULAR
Voited
Voited CloudTouch Blanket
Insulation: Recycled fleece | Shell: 50-denier recycled ripstop Repreve | Weight: 3.6 pounds | Machine washable: Yes
Voited, much like Rumpl, specializes in stylish, practical and super comfortable outdoor blankets. For warmer months, or when you’re looking to keep weight down, the Ripstop Blanket is highly recommended, but when you want maximum warmth and versatility, the CloudTouch is hard to beat. On one side, there’s recycled ripstop that’s insulated and water resistant, but on the other you’ll find plush fleece that’s as inviting and soft to cuddle as your Labrador, just without the slobber. It’s an ideal choice for car camping or van life, especially as there’s 33 colors to choose from and a solid 46-degree temperature rating.
It has well-positioned poppers, allowing it to be worn as a poncho, or you can fasten two together to create a large sleeping bag. The large stuff pocket means it can also be used as a superb camping pillow.
Pros:
- Stylish and versatile
- Converts into a pillow
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Bulky to transport
Matador
Matador Pocket Blanket
Insulation: N/A | Shell: Polyester, waterproofing | Weight: 0.23 pounds | Machine washable: No
Matador’s Pocket Blanket isn’t a camping blanket in the traditionally warm, campfire vibes sense, but rather, a must-have, undeniably practical extra for any backpack. This ultralight, nylon waterproof picnic blanket folds down to the size of a wallet, but offers enough real estate to keep up to four bums dry on wet or muddy ground. It even has black zinc coated corner stakes to tether it to the ground in windy conditions, and sand pockets for keeping it weighted down on the beach. There’s also a clever stitching pattern across the face that teaches you how to fold it down properly to fit inside the minuscule mesh storage bag.
Pros:
- Packs down tiny
- Practical size
- Dry bum
Cons:
- No insulation
Amazon
Therm-A-Rest Argo Camping Blanket
Insulation: Synthetic | Shell: Polyester, waterproofing | Weight: 1.6 pounds | Machine washable: Yes
There’s nothing worse than a camp blanket that leaves you fighting for every last inch of fabric, so consider upgrading to the Argo if you need extra real estate. It’s big enough to swaddle you like a baby but still compresses into a built-in pocket when the time comes to pack up camp. Synthetic eraLoft insulation reduces weight (without sacrificing warmth) and a polyester lining delivers unrivalled comfort. If you’re smart, you’ll convince others to invest in the Argo so you can use the perimeter snap loops to daisy chain blankets together. But even if you’re the sole owner of such a spacious camp blanket, the unique colors and patterns will have others asking to borrow it on every trip.
Pros:
- Solid value
- Oversized
- Transportable
Cons:
- Little of note
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
We’ve reviewed and tested an abundance of outdoor equipment that’s designed to keep you warm, from sleeping bags to ski gloves and mittens. The gear section here at Forbes Vetted prioritizes durability, efficiency and planet-friendly manufacturing practices when it comes to choosing the best camping blankets.
To identify the best camping blankets, we tested a series of options while car camping, backpacking and hanging around the house. We also turned to friends and family who spend ample time outdoors to better understand what features they prioritize when investing in a camping blanket. The most common considerations include weight, insulation type, material construction and dimensions.
This story is frequently reviewed and updated to ensure accuracy. It was most recently updated in June 2024.
How We Chose The Best Camping Blankets
While camping blankets look incredibly similar from one model to the next (after all, each one is essentially a square piece of fabric), differences exist that dictate which one is right for you.
These include dimensions, insulation types, warmth ratings, weight, packability, durability and more. When rounding up and ranking the best camping blankets, we took these factors into consideration before testing blankets and weighing our experience against that of independent reviews. We also own several blankets on this list, and we relied on our own long-term testing when differentiating one blanket from another. Those recommended here are a result of hours of thorough investigation.
What To Look For In A Camping Blanket
When the time comes to invest in a camping blanket, you’ll want to keep certain specifications in mind to narrow down your options. Consider these variables as you search for a blanket that meets your needs.
Dimensions
There may be no feeling worse than pulling out a blanket for the first time and throwing it over yourself only to discover it’s too small. Before you invest in a blanket, take a closer look at the dimensions and consider whether or not it’ll cover you from head to toe.
Generally speaking, we recommend keeping an eye out for options that measure at least 84 x 48 inches. If you’re taller than said dimensions, be sure to size up accordingly, and if you’re camping as a couple, consider investing in a blanket that’s designed for two.
Insulation
The insulation type will directly impact your blanket’s ability to keep you warm, and the most popular forms of insulation include synthetics, down and natural fiber. Each insulation type offers a unique set of benefits and drawbacks.
Synthetic insulation retains its loft even when wet to keep you warm no matter the weather, and it’s more affordable and durable than a natural insulator. That said, it weighs more as well, and some consider this a hindrance when backpacking.
Down insulation, meanwhile, offers the greatest warmth-to-weight ratio and packs well for trips that take size and weight into consideration. The only downsides to down (sorry) are that it tends to clump when wet and it’s more expensive than synthetic options.
Natural fibers such as wool or alpaca aren’t as widely used, but these fibers have become more popular in recent years thanks to the fiber’s natural properties—it fights odor, wicks moisture and offers next-to-skin comfort. That said, natural fibers are often heavy, difficult to pack and a pain to clean, so we only recommend them if you’re looking for a casual camping blanket.
Weight And Packability
A camping blanket’s overall weight is a direct result of its construction. Unless you’re using your camping blanket primarily for backpacking, weight is of little concern, but the differences from one model to the next still vary widely.
For instance, Western Mountaineering’s ultralight blanket weighs under two pounds while Filson’s durable blanket weighs over five pounds. Most options fall between one and two pounds, but you’ll only need to keep the blanket’s weight and packability in mind if you’re already counting every ounce in your pack and trying to save space.
What Type Of Blanket Is Best For Camping?
The best camping blanket for you depends on the kind of camping you’re planning on doing. For car camping trips where space and weight aren’t top of mind, opting for an all-natural wool blanket will likely you coziest in your tent or around a campfire. If you’re hiking or packing all of your gear into camp, look for a lightweight or even ultralight blanket made from nylon. Blankets insulated with synthetic materials like the Rumpl are quite versatile. They’re warming in all conditions, durable and are often even machine washable. Down blankets and quilts provide lots of warmth and loft and pack down smaller than synthetics but tend to be pricey and difficult to clean. If warmth isn’t what you’re after, a non-insulated pick like the Matador Pocket Blanket makes an excellent choice for a picnic.
What Are The Warmest Blankets For Camping?
While any camping blanket worth its salt will keep you warm outdoors, the warmest blankets for camping are likely those filled with down. As a natural insulator, the loose structure of down feathers trap warm air and retain it for long-lasting heat. Down is also easily compressible, and it’s breathable in the event that you get a little too warm by the campfire. Keep in mind, however, that down shouldn’t get wet and because down products are usually made with thinner materials, they might not be as durable.
Are Fleece Blankets Good For Camping?
We find ourselves enjoying the soft, lovable qualities of fleece on a regular basis, especially as cold, wet weather moves in. While fleece isn’t as warm as a natural insulator such as wool or down, it’s still incredibly versatile for its weight, and it’s durable, too. You can get it wet without worry or let it fall in the dirt and shake it clean in seconds. Wear your favorite fleece blanket like a cape or pair it with a cold weather sleeping bag and you’ll be comfy through the night. Just don’t let your fleece blanket get too close to the fire—as a synthetic polyester material, it’s particularly sensitive to heat.
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