Whether you’re enjoying a picnic at the park, an afternoon at the beach, or a weekend at a campsite, bringing along a water-resistant, outdoor-ready, and easy-to-clean blanket is key. That’s why we rounded up eight of the most packable, highly rated, and lounge-ready blankets we could find. Consider your next outdoor outing elevated.
Eddie Bauer Water Resistant Outdoor Blanket
If you want to protect yourself from getting wet, this blanket from Eddie Bauer has you covered. It features a waterproof backing, a cool, printed top side, and a plush polyester stuffing for warmth, so it can hold up (and stay dry) in the elements. When not in use, it rolls up and carries with a simple shoulder strap.
If you’re more of a traditionalist and prefer a blanket that’s more environmentally friendly than its polyester counterparts, consider the Humboldt Blanket from Trek Light Gear, a boutique outdoor brand based in Boulder, Colorado. It’s made from excess clothing materials—which are shredded into a fine pulp and then repurposed into yarn that’s woven to make this mid-weight goody. It’s a take-anywhere blanket that looks and feels good.
If you could take your most beloved puffy jacket and turn it into a blanket, this 6.5-foot long throw is what you would get. The Kelty Bestie Blanket can fit down into a small packable stuff sack, even though it’s filled with cushy Cloudloft insulation and has a generous size. And don’t shortchange the silky-soft outer material—this blanket can hold its own against pine needles, rocks, and dirt. Plus, it comes in four natural (but bold) colors.
These puffy, insulated blankets are made with a ripstop shell—so they are as warm and element-hardy as they come. They’re the perfect camping accessory, yet versatile enough for everyday use. You can keep them outside, take them to the park, use them for picnics, sporting events—you name it. Plus, they’re made with 100% recycled materials.
NRS CGear Sand-Free MultiMat
If you love the beach but hate getting sand everywhere, the Sand-Free Mat from the water sport specialists at NRS is your best bet. Made from tightly woven polyester, this dual-woven mesh blanket allows sand to pass through so it doesn’t pile up like it would on your traditional beach blanket or towel. Plus, it dries out in a snap and comes with D-rings so you can stake it down on windier days.
If you’re looking for an outdoor blanket that has artistic flair and will stand out, Society 6 offers dozens of water- and UV-resistant outdoor blankets in bold colors and unique patterns from independent artists. No matter what your personal preference is, there’s something for everyone—froma mod suntowhimsical birds of paradisetoKeith Haring tributestoa bear in the wild.
NEMO Victory Blanket XL
At a whopping 120″ x 120″ the NEMO Victory XL is the biggest blanket on this list—and can comfortably accommodate four people. Not only can you use it as a picnic or beach blanket, but also as a carpet for your tent on your next camping trip. The super-soft flannel top is padded for protection from the ground and features a waterproof bottom, so a damp ground poses no threat.
Priced at $200, this is no cheap blanket. But the Lowlands from Yeti is more than a blanket: it’s a ground cover, a cozy accessory, and a luxury item that’s made to last for years. The special fabric repels dirt, burrs, and pet hair. The waterproof outer layer protects the padded and insulated interior, so you stay dry and comfortable.
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