Adding a blanket to your sleep kit can really boost the warmth of your sleeping bag without the need for a winter sleeping bag. If, for example, you have a 3 season sleeping bag, adding a blanket can turn it into a 4 season sleep system. In warmer months you can just use the sleeping bag open or even just the blanket. Below we’ve listed some of best camping blankets available in the UK.
Types of camping blankets
When it comes to camping blankets, there are various types to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types of camping blankets:
Down camping blankets
Down camping blankets are filled with down feathers and are known for their excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. They are lightweight, packable, and provide exceptional insulation, making them ideal for cold weather camping. However, they are not waterproof and can lose their insulating properties when wet. NOTE: If you buy a down blanket make sure it is RDS certified which means the down is sources responsibly and does not involve horrible live plucking from birds (note, if it doesn’t say it is responsibly source and/or RDS, it probably isn’t so don’t buy).
Fleece camping blankets
Fleece camping blankets are made from synthetic materials and are soft, warm, and comfortable. They are also lightweight and packable, making them a great choice for travel. However, they are not as warm as down blankets and can be bulky when packed.
Wool camping blankets
Wool camping blankets are made from natural wool fibers and provide excellent warmth and comfort. They are also durable and can last for years with proper care. If you like your bushcraft and/or getting back to nature, then a wool blanket will suit your needs perfectly. However, they are heavier and bulkier than other types of camping blankets and can be difficult to pack.
Synthetic camping blankets
Synthetic camping blankets are filled with synthetic insulation and are known for their durability and water resistance. They are also lightweight and packable, making them a good choice for camping and travel. However, they are not as warm as down or wool blankets and can be bulky when packed.
Ripstop camping blankets
Ripstop camping blankets are made from ripstop nylon and are known for their durability and water resistance. They are also lightweight and packable, making them a good choice for camping and travel. However, they are not as warm as down blankets and can be bulky when packed.
Waterproof camping blankets
Waterproof camping blankets are made with a waterproof coating and are ideal for wet weather camping. They are also lightweight and packable, making them a good choice for camping and travel. However, they are not as warm as down blankets and can be bulky when packed.
Picnic camping blankets
Picnic camping blankets are versatile blankets that can be used for camping, picnics, and other outdoor activities. They are usually made from durable and water-resistant materials and are lightweight and packable. However, they are not as warm as down blankets and can be bulky when packed.
Sustainable camping blankets
Sustainable camping blankets are made from eco-friendly materials and are designed to minimize the impact on the environment. They are usually made from natural materials such as wool or recycled materials such as plastic bottles. They are also lightweight and packable, making them a good choice for camping and travel.
Here are ten great camping blankets to check out
- Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket – A lightweight and packable camping blanket that is made with a water-resistant nylon shell and synthetic insulation.
- Horizon Hound Down Trek Blanket – A warm and affordable down camping blanket that is lightweight and packable.
- Oceas Sherpa Fleece Waterproof Blanket – A versatile and waterproof camping blanket that is made with a soft and cozy sherpa fleece lining.
- Kelty Bestie Blanket – A lightweight and packable camping blanket that is made with a soft and cozy fleece lining.
- Voited Recycled Ripstop Outdoor Camping Blanket – A versatile and eco-friendly camping blanket that is made with a water-resistant ripstop nylon shell and synthetic insulation.
- NEMO Puffin Blanket – A warm and lightweight camping blanket that is made with a soft and cozy fleece lining and synthetic insulation.
- Kammok Firebelly Trail Quilt – A versatile and packable camping quilt that can be used as a blanket or worn as a poncho.
- Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus Sleeping Pad Blanket – A warm and lightweight camping blanket that can also be used as a sleeping pad.
- Black Diamond Stonehauler Blanket – A durable and water-resistant camping blanket that is made with a rugged nylon shell and synthetic insulation.
- Ibex Wool Aire Camp Blanket – A warm and cozy camping blanket that is made with a soft and sustainable wool insulation.
Ultimately, the best camping blanket for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It’s important to consider factors such as warmth, weight, packability, and durability when choosing a camping blanket.
Related: Interested in camping quilt this year? Check out our Camping quilts available in the UK article. Also, if you’re on the lookout for a bargain tent, check out the one that everyone is currently talking about, the OEX Bobcat 1 tent.
Camping blankets available in the UK – summary
So there you go – there are loads to choose from, and you need to consider the conditions you’re camping in, the weather and temperatures you’re likely to expect. Overall, a good camping blanket is a worthwhile investment for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors. With so many options available on the market, it’s important to do your research and choose a blanket that meets your specific needs and preferences. If for use in winter you also need to bear in mind the warmth rating of the sleeping bag you will be using too. For example, a good quality 3 season sleeping bag, plus a decent blanket should suffice for a lot of the weather in the UK. If you’re hiking up in the Scottish Mountains you are probably better off not using a blanket anyway, and instead having a top notch 4 season sleeping bag. Hopefully this article has not only shown you the best camping blankets available in the UK, but has helped you decide which one to choose too.