You’re off to your next adventure, but a long and winding path lies ahead of you. If you’re a snuggler, you will definitely need a cozy and plush travel blanket to keep you comfortable as you make your way to your destination. Choosing a good travel blanket is more complex than you think; you need something that will endure the trip, make you comfortable, keep you warm, and can even double as a pillow. Because the demand for travel blankets has increased, so many options are currently available to choose from. Below are some tips on what to look for when purchasing your new travel blanket.
Why you need a travel blanket
Whether you’re in the habit of packing light or if you’re travelling on a smaller plane that doesn’t allow excess luggage, you may often feel like you don’t need a travel blanket. But the truth is, the best travel blanket available these days is the compact one that can be rolled up and easily stored in your bags. A lightweight travel blanket is ideal for camping or hiking trips or a long plane or train ride to your destination. Airplane travel blankets aren’t the most comfortable to use, and who knows when they were last washed? Use your own to keep you warm, snug, and comfortable. Before you decide on the best one, there are some factors to consider:
It’s in the fabric
Travel blankets don’t come in a “one fabric fits all” situation; they are actually made from an assortment of fabrics, different than your average home blankets. Polyester is the most common fabric found in travel blankets and is often blended with nylon. They’re lightweight and highly durable. The fleece may feel like and give the same warming effect of wool, but it’s much lighter to carry and thinner. There are also allergy-friendly blankets made out of silk so as not to carry around any dust mites.
Controls temperatures and brings you comfort
Depending on where you’re travelling, some blankets need to keep you extra warm. Choose your fabric wisely because the whole purpose of a travel blanket is to keep you warm on cold airplane rides or cold camping nights. You want a blanket that is soft, smooth, and makes you feel warm and cozy. If you’re going somewhere warm, cooling blankets will definitely help in regulating your body’s temperature and avoid overheating.
Easy to pack and carry
Opt for a travel blanket that has storage suggestions. Some of them can be rolled and held together with straps making it much easier to carry around. Others come with their own pouch, so you can fold the blanket and fit it in the pouch. Choose a travel blanket that is ultra-light so it won’t add weight to your bags.
Size matters
Make sure you buy the right size of travel blanket. You don’t want one that takes up too much space in your bags, or one that is too small that it doesn’t cover you fully and you end up being very cold. Choose a convenient sized blanket that can be tucked under your feet and fits both ends of your body perfectly.
Durable and easy to maintain
You want a blanket that can last for a few trips and not just one or two. Blankets have the ability to last quite a while if used and stored properly. Choose one that comes in its own pouch to protect it from getting torn or damaged. Opt for high quality brands, and not cheap ones, because they’re manufactured with the finest of durable materials. Many blankets can be easily washed and air-dried in no time.
Practicality
Blankets can come in many practical functions. Some of them can double up as a neck pillow, others are made out of stain-proof material, while others are wearable and meant to be worn as a jacket.
Choose your purpose for a blanket and you’re guaranteed to find one that will fit your needs. A travel blanket and go miles in keeping you warm and cozy while remaining durable. Keep these factors in mind when trying to find the right blanket for you.