While people may love the wanderlust and travel, they hate the long hours of plane/train travel. I think we can all agree on that. This is especially true for long bus/train rides and redeye flights. Let’s face the fact – unless you have the budget for business or coach, economy seats are not necessarily the most comfortable. It is our sacred responsibility to help make your journey as seamless as possible with today’s feature – travel blankets.
Our usual plane ride finds ourselves not needing travel blankets at takeoff; chucking it at a side or returning it to the air stewards in hopes for more leg space. Medical studies have shown how high temperatures in planes can trigger Hypoxia, lack of oxygen in our tissues. Thus, airline companies are likely to err on the safe side aka the colder side. En route to our destination on trains/buses, it tends to get colder especially during rainy weather and at night.
We start to desperately scamper around for a jacket or some form of cover mid-journey when it gets chilly; wishing that we had brought something more useful to keep ourselves warm. This is the reason why travel blankets are recommended travel necessity for every traveler.
10 Best Travel Blankets
Now, let us look at the top 10 best travel blankets and why we recommend them. It is not arranged in any particular order.
1. Kingole Flannel Fleece Microfiber Throw Blanket
Often, travel blankets are designed to serve more of a functional purpose than an aesthetic purpose. These blankets may not necessarily complement your outfit well. If you are someone who needs to travel in style, Kingole may be the perfect travel blanket for you.
Kingole aims to produce their products with a balanced sense of style and comfort, not compromising one for the other. Kingole offers a panel of styles you can choose from to fit your fashion. You can now put on a luxurious flannel throw blanket and look good in it. Get to travel in style even when on a budget with Kingole.
Convenience & Comfort
This flannel fleece is a multi-purpose blanket for any season. You can bring it on your travel rides, use it during outdoor camping trips and even snuggle in it at home. You can even leave the blanket on the couch which acts as a décor for your sofa. The best thing about the fleece is the convenience it affords you. The material is shrink-resistant, Anti-fade, Anti-Pilling, Wrinkle-Free, and does not fade even after multiple washes.
Material & Warmth
Using high-grade polyester microfiber with fleece and flannel not only provides a soft texture but also the durability to last. The material is highly breathable and has high warmth retention. Feel the gentle touch on your skin while you are well wrapped in it.
Size
This fleece blanket is available in multiple sizes. Simply pick the size of your choice for different occasions and uses. Thanks to its compatibility, you can easily pack it on the go without occupying much of your baggage space to your ideal adventure.
Users have found the quality of the blanket to be as advertised with no shedding or static problems. In fact, it is super comfy to the touch.
Pros
Multi-functional, suitable for indoors and outdoors
Shrink resistant
Anti-fade
High grade quality
Cons
Limited color range
2. BlueHills Premium Soft Travel Blanket
Bluehills blanket comes in six exciting colors suitable for both genders. With comfort as key, Bluehills specializes in developing one of the softest travel blankets around. If the texture is something you highly value, Bluehills products may be to your liking.
Convenience & Comfort
This soft travel blanket comes in a handy 11.5” x 10” pack. Despite its large size, it is highly compactable, and it could fit another travel pillowcase inside. The highlight of this pack is the soft hand luggage belt and backpack clip; making it easy to attach to any bag, suitcases or luggage to carry along.
Material & Warmth
Bluehills have been known for their quality and soft materials for their bedroom accessories. The material used for this product is no different. The silk-like quality used makes the blanket comfortable to the user’s touch while keeping them warm at optimal temperatures.
Size
Unfortunately, this travel blanket is only available in a single size of 60” x 43”. Despite that, the large size will still be more than sufficient to keep you fully warm wherever you may be.
Positive reviews have been given with users putting the quality of Bluehills product to the test on long distance rides. The verdict – most found it to be comfortable and retains heat well. However, there were some who experienced issues with the zipper and found it a little troublesome to keep properly after use.
Pros
Multi-functional, suitable for indoors and outdoors
Gender friendly colors
Silk like quality
Spacious travel case
Cons
One size only
Lack of ease with keeping after use
High price
3. MERRYLIFE Throw Blanket for Couch
Merrylife provides a plush throw blanket with brilliant colors and designs that are out of this world. Get exotic fabric patterns like the zebra and cheetah to express your desire to be closer to nature. If you are going for a Caribbean cruise, you can consider the island travel style blankets.
Convenience & Comfort
Merrylife’s blankets are machine washable, you can toss them in without any worry of ruining the fabric or expecting crease and wrinkles. Their blankets are also light and breathable, making it easily portable for all occasions.
Material & Warmth
Made from 100% Polyester fabric, these blankets can be suitable even for babies. It is well insulated to keep the entire family warm just under one large blanket. This will be useful especially on plane rides sitting alongside your friends/loved ones. Rather than bringing three blankets, why not just use one large one for all.
Size
Merrylife prides itself on the oversized nature of its products. You can get these oversized products in 50” x 60”, 60” x 90”, 90” x 102” & 90” x 90”. Find the ideal size for you and your spouse to wrap yourselves in!
Good feedback were given for this product with customers calling it the perfect item for chilly weather. Some may find the blanket to be thinner than expected or not liking the actual product design. Well, this is really subjective to the user’s preferences.
Pros
Multiple sizing
Excellent heat retention
Soft to the touch
Easy wash
Cons
Lack of design choices
Limited color range
4. LEISURE TOWN Fleece Throw Blanket Fuzzy Soft Plush Blanket
Leisure Town is confident in the quality of their products. They are willing to provide a 1-month return and replacement service if their products do not meet the said standard. The prized feature – 3D air-fiber allows for better air-flow and better temperature control while preserving the warmth you need.
Convenience & Comfort
Leisure Town’s blankets are highly recommended to be machine wash with cold water. Quality is ensured even after long term washing and drying, it stays new and clean. It is also highly durable with no pilling or shedding after 40 times of washing test. This is an ideal choice for individuals who are particular with a no annoyance smoothing blanket. The blankets are well tailored with strong stitching support on the one-inch hem to ensure breathability and coziness.
Material & Warmth
With the latest 3D Air fleece feature, Leisure Town blankets are extremely breathable and comfortable. While keeping you warm, you will not be feeling the overheat or extra sweat.
Size
These throw blankets are available in 50” x 61” for travel packed sizing. They are also available for your regular twin/queen/king size beds in 66”x 90”, 90”x 90”, 90” x 108” respectively.
Reviews have shown that the blanket’s breathability may become its weakness. It may be too breathable that it does not retain much heat. On the plus side, it is very durable and is still well maintained even after a year of washing.
Pros
Return policy & replacement service
Temperature control
Breathability
Durable
Cons
Size may not fit all users
5. World’s Best 4320 Cozy-Soft Microfleece Travel Blanket
Having to be the main player in the production of travel accessories, World’s Best knows what it takes to bring travelers the comfort they desire. Their goal is to provide first-class comfort for every traveler with the world’s best lightweight blanket.
Convenience & Comfort
World’s best is machine washable and easy to keep clean. It is best washed under low heat with no need for ironing at all! Its light mass makes it portable for travel and backpacking.
Material & Warmth
With 100% Polyester fleece-knit, it is a quality blanket at an affordable price. However, this material is more sensitive, requiring more careful detail in the washing. World’s Best can wrap you comfortably in your seats as you rest up en route to your destination.
Size
These travel blankets are available in 50” x 60”. It is small enough for minimalistic travel and large enough to keep you comfortable. Be it in your homes or on flights, you can ensure that you are well covered throughout.
Buyers found this blanket to be of economic value and a better quality than excepted for its price. It is also not too bulky to bring along for travels.
Pros
Good price
Lightweight
Good heat retention
Cons
One size only
Sheds after wash
6. EASELAND Soft Travel Size Blanket
Offering a myriad of classic colors, Easeland caters to the needs of different people with solid colors that display a simple but elegant lifestyle. Their products show how travel can still be poise and makes a personal statement for the individual.
Convenience & Comfort
These comfy blankets are suitable for both indoors and outdoors purposes – not limited to certain seasons. It is also easily maintained as the blankets can be machine washed with our regular laundry. Easeland also offers customer support services to help resolve any issues related to the product. This reversible blanket is skin-friendly and soft to the touch; making it the ideal comforter.
Material & Warmth
Easeland’s soft and plush blankets comprise of top-quality microfiber material of 330 GSM, enhanced with fade and shrink resistant qualities. Also, their blankets have two different textures on each side – with one side feeling smooth and the other feeling plush. The design allows for excellent thermal insulating ability with a gentle touch.
Size
These travel blankets are available in 50” x 61”. If you desire for more permanent use, they are also available for your twin/queen/king size beds in 66”x 90”, 90”x 90”, 90” x 108” respectively.
Some users have praised the product for helping even children with sensory issues to nap well. On the other hand, others have also highlighted that the fabric at the edge starts to separate after some time.
Pros
Fade & shrink resistant
Lightweight
Good heat retention
Cons
Weak fabric stitching
7. Kelty Bestie Blanket
Next on our list is the Kelty Bestie Blanket. Like its namesake, it is designed to be your best friend in every situation. You can rely on it over campfires, rocky terrains and over as an extra layer of warmth under your sleeping bag.
Convenience & Comfort
This best friend is designed to be easily compressible, light with great heat retention. The stuff sack includes a handle to easily carry along during your travels when it is not in use. Enjoy the ease of transport and comfort without feeling the burden of additional weight today.
Material & Warmth
At Kelty’s, they include a dual-layer of insulation with the cloud loft and shell. Being made from 750D Polyester Taffeta and 190T Poly Pungee, you do not have to worry over heat loss. Simply appreciate the moments and surroundings around you in pleasant comfort.
Size
Bestie blankets are 75.5” x 42.25” in measurements. It is the perfect size for reading under the covers or warming up around campfires. Its large size can keep not only yourself but also your besties warm during adventures together.
Users have enjoyed the stuff sack which made it highly convenient while traveling. Some may have mismatched expectations for its use and purpose; expecting it to be a substitute for a sleeping bag.
Pros
Compactible
Multipurpose
Good heat retention
Cons
Higher Price
Not as big in size to fit two as advertised
8. BEARZ Outdoor Compact Pocket Blanket
Bearz’s products are designed to serve outdoor activities. Their products function as a shield to brave the elements of nature. It sets every outdoor lover free to bask in glee while enjoying the different activities.
Convenience & Comfort
The versatility of this blanket is the main reason why many customers purchase it. This blanket can be used on multiple terrains from beach activities to hiking to makeshift shelters for rainy weather. The possibilities are endless. Its water, puncture and, sand resistant characteristics make it easy for cleaning and washing. Wrap yourself in comfort without having to worry about getting wet or sand grains slipping in. However, to maintain the quality of the material, a little more effort is needed in handwashing the blanket.
Material & Warmth
The material used is a unique fabric that is waterproof and beach proof. As we all know, it is always the wind that makes it colder than the stated temperature. Thankfully, this windproof material can sufficiently keep an individual warm.
Size
This outdoor blanket is 55” x 60” in measurements. It can fit two to four persons, making it an optimal choice for intimate outdoor gatherings. Do consider Bearz especially for family outings or chillouts with close friends.
While Bearz’s blankets are quality goods for the outdoors, some commented on the strong chemical smell upon delivery, requiring time for airing before usage.
Pros
Water and sand resistant
Lightweight
Durable
Cons
One size only
More maintenance effort required
9. Forestfish Fleece Throw Blanket
Forestfish is the perfect travel accessory for any woman. Women can choose from the selection of floral, plaid and navy designs to be not only a comforter but also a fashion accessory. All Forestfish blankets also come with a one-year warranty.
Convenience & Comfort
You can pack the blanket neatly into a drawstring bag, thereby occupying minimal storage space. The product is also machine washable after each use with no fade. Be it in at home, in the office or outside traveling, Forestfish’s soft blankets makes it comfortable to lean on for quality rest. Build your ideal setting for power naps with this cozy blanket and enjoy the soft touch it offers.
Material & Warmth
100% Polyester, it is light, cozy and soft. Forestfish blankets are known to keep you warm for long periods. This is something to consider for long rides as a lap blanket especially for the elderly.
Size
Measuring at 59” x 39.4”, this blanket is good to wrap around your shoulders. However, it won’t be the ideal size if you want to keep your entire body warm. This size will be perfect as a substitute for jackets in colder environments.
This throw blanket has been praised for not only being a substitute for jackets and for being a makeshift pillow during long waits. Delivery was also fast and prompt.
Pros
Soft & Comfortable
Lightweight
Good delivery service
Cons
One size only – may not be sufficient to cover the entire body
10. Travelrest 4-in-1 Premier Class Travel Blanket with Zipped Pocket
Travelrest’s 4 in 1 set consists of the blanket, poncho, zippered pocket and stuff sack. Their trademark HiGear design aims for quality innovation to make travel as relaxing and comfortable as possible – from home to land and air travel.
Convenience & Comfort
Travelrest’s blanket fits well from shoulders down without the issue of slipping off from your body. You won’t have to deal with the frustration of constantly fixing a blanket slipping off. Engage in your activities with ease. The ultra-plush material makes it feel seamless during your travels. The multipurpose set can double as a pillow or lumbar support. Providing great comfort especially for older folks during long-distance journeys.
Material & Warmth
Made from plush coral fleece, Travelrest’s blankets are ultra-soft and tender to the touch. This imported material only enhances the texture and warmth for the user; making every traveler’s experience a delightful one.
Size
This outdoor blanket is 38” X 60” in size, but it folds up easily into a handy 10 x 13 inches when zipped up. When worn over the shoulders, it is commonly feedbacked that it may seem slightly smaller. Hence, it is good to gauge personally if the blanket fits your body length well.
Besides the comfort it provides, users have applauded the front pouch where they can put their personal belongings. This in turn helped to protect their valuables during their rest without having the risk of these items falling out.
Pros
User-friendly features
Good heat retention
Value for money
Cons
One size only – better use as a lap blanket
How to Choose the Best Travel Blankets
In recent years, travel blankets have become essential in the life of a modern traveler. With a variety of options out there, how should we decide which travel blanket suits us best?
Here are five factors to always consider in getting a quality blanket suited to your needs:
Convenience
Traveling light is an ongoing trend. Gone are the days of bulky, thick blankets as we usher in a new era of convenience with compact blankets. Blankets should ideally fit in your carry on without taking too much of space. This becomes highly useful for backpackers on tight budgets.
In a bid to save costs, you are likely to bring only a carry-on backpack instead of buying check-in luggage space. With the given size limitations of these carry-ons, you will only want to pack the essentials. Blankets will be the last thing you want to pack if the given weight and thickness add unnecessary burden to your shoulders and inconvenience.
Comfort
Just as your bed is designed to be your place of comfort, travel blankets are meant to be your essential to a comfortable ride or sleep through a redeye flight. You should feel comfortable enough to snuggle in it than having to toss and turn to find the optimal sleeping posture. Travel blankets are akin to having arms wrapped around you – to provide that security and sense of ease.
Warmth
The primordial design of the travel blankets is to keep you warm. What good will it do if you are freezing throughout your journey despite being well covered? The warmth retention factor is very much dependent on our next factor – the type and quality of material used.
Material
Travel blankets are made differently from the fabrics used in our everyday blankets at home. While the blankets cannot be too thick, it needs to be light, compact and able to keep us warm at the same time. The common types of fabric used are – Polyester, Fleece and Down Blankets.
Polyester fabric is used commonly due to its durability and lightweight nature; making it convenient for travelers to carry around. Fleece is similar to wool in its attribute and touch. While your normal blankets use thicker fleece, travel blankets are made with thinner and lighter ones to accommodate travel. Down Blankets are made with down feathers – which are light and fluffy. It contains water-resistant attributes and provides the necessary insulation for warmth retention.
Size
Ever felt like the blankets given out by airlines are never enough to cover you entirely? You are not the only one. Airline standard travel blankets tend to be small and a single blanket is never enough. You will be fortunate if you can cover half your body with these blankets. The good news is travel blankets are available for purchase in different sizes. Having one that covers your whole body always ensures quality rest. Say goodbye to the struggle of keeping warm during your flights. No more waking up halfway to attempt keeping yourself warm.
Frequently Asked Questions for Travel Blankets
Why should I get my travel blanket when it’s readily available on flights?
Airline blankets tend to be made from upcycling materials which may be rough and itchy to the touch. Airline blankets tend to be smaller and thinner; it may not give you the comfort and warmth that you desire on your journey. Travel blankets help to elevate the quality of rest without having to wake up every other moment to make adjustments.
Where can I purchase these travel blankets?
They are available in retail and online stores. We recommend purchasing them via Amazon which offers a wide spectrum to choose from and trusted customer reviews.
How much should I set aside for a quality blanket?
Travel blankets differ in pricing largely due to the quality and material. We advise you to view travel blankets as an investment especially if you are a frequent traveler. We recommend a budget of USD$20 – $40 for a good travel blanket.
What factors should I consider in getting a travel blanket?
For all products, do look out for the following: Convenience, Comfort, Type of material, Warmth and Size of blanket. We encourage travelers to look at the product specifics and user reviews to select their blankets based on these five factors.
What types of materials are travel blankets made from?
Travel blankets are largely made from Polyester and Fleece. As travel blankets are designed to be lighter than our home blankets for the convenience of carrying around, the materials use tend to be of different type.
Should I get my travel blanket when I am only traveling?
You can get your travel blanket any time! Most of these blankets are multipurpose and suited for different occasions. Some have the feature of being a beach mat while others can be used as furniture accessory for home usage.
Conclusion
Travel blankets continue to be a popular travel accessory for many. A good travel blanket only serves to improve the quality of your travels in the long run. Invest in a good travel blanket today!
