Other Travel Blankets We Liked
Four additional travel blankets we tested couldn’t quite earn a spot on our list due to minor issues but still had notable features that may meet the needs of some travelers.
Forestfish Fleece Throw Blanket: Priced at under $20, this blanket offers a good value for those seeking a smaller, lightweight travel blanket, especially suitable for shorter road trips. While it was adequate for drives, it may not offer enough insulation for plane or train rides with less temperature control.
Therm-a-rest Honcho Poncho Wearable Hoodie Blanket: This blanket maintains warmth without overheating, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. While its wearability adds convenience, it does not offer much coverage in poncho mode.
Sagefinds Soft Travel Blanket with Bag: Although deceivingly thin, this option offers a step up from airline blankets, providing warmth and breathability without being overly luxurious. It’s deemed best for budget-conscious travelers seeking portability.
Eversnug Travel Blanket and Pillow: We like the versatility of being able to use this item as both a blanket and a pillow. However, it’s not the best choice for taller people because it’s on the smaller size.
Our Testing Process
Our T+L team tested 19 travel blankets in everyday travel scenarios to assess comfort, ease of use, durability, and value. We followed a comprehensive examination to evaluate each option, including overall construction, fabric choice, design features, warmth, and packability. We used the blankets in a variety of practical scenarios including traveling by plane, train, and car; during outdoor events; and even while lounging at home to determine comfort, functionality, versatility, and durability.
We took notes on how heavy or lightweight the blankets felt, how warm or breathable they were, how large or compact they were, how easy it was to pack or fold them, and any unique features they had to make them more portable or comfortable. For the blankets that were machine-washable, we washed them at least once during the initial testing period to see how they held up and if the materials changed at all.
Our long-term plan includes testing for an additional six months to monitor each blanket’s performance and durability in different travel scenarios. As we continue to test the blankets in various real-world settings, we will continue to take notes on portability, practicality, and any wear and tear, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of each travel blankets’ reliability. We will update these results if our findings should change.
Tips for Buying Travel Blankets
Think of your intended use
When buying a travel blanket, consider your intended use carefully. If you’re primarily using it for flights, prioritize coziness and a compact size — you won’t want something too large or too bulky that will take up too much space in your personal item or spill into the neighboring seat. Look for blankets made from soft materials that provide warmth without being too heavy to carry. Opt for lightweight options that can easily fit into your bag and keep you comfortable during long flights.
On the other hand, if you’re planning to use the blanket for camping or outdoor activities, prioritize warmth and durability. Consider blankets that are larger, thicker, and possibly waterproof (or at least water-resistant) to withstand various weather conditions. Look for materials like fleece or wool that provide insulation and keep you warm even in chilly outdoor settings.
Additionally, pay attention to the dimensions of the blanket. Some blankets are designed for one person, while others are larger and suitable for two. Choose the size that best fits your needs, whether you prefer individual coverage or sharing with a travel companion.
Keep portability in mind
When you’re on the hunt for a travel blanket, don’t forget about portability. Look out for ones that come with a handy carrying case, especially those with luggage sleeves or clips that you can easily attach to your backpack or suitcase. Having a dedicated carrying case helps keep the blanket compact and protected when not in use, preventing it from taking up too much space in your luggage or personal bag. Some blankets can even double as pillows when you fold them up into their cases. Additionally, it helps to not carry one more additional item (look ma, no hands!) and makes it effortless to bring along during travel.
Look at special features
Traveling is hard enough, so when shopping for a travel blanket, consider special features that enhance functionality and comfort. Look for blankets with built-in footrest pockets, which provide extra warmth and coziness during long journeys. Zippered compartments are handy for storing small items like headphones or travel documents, keeping them within easy reach.
You can also opt for blankets that can fold into a pillow, offering versatility and saving space in your luggage. Waterproof blankets are ideal for outdoor adventures, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable in unpredictable weather conditions. Thermoregulating blankets help maintain a comfortable temperature, keeping you warm without overheating. Blankets with sleeves and hoods allow you to wear them like a garment, providing maximum coverage and warmth.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
An expert on shopping trends and a frequent traveler, Maddie Michalik has been professionally reviewing products since 2014. For this story, she combed through T+L’s detailed testing insights for various travel blankets, reading through testing feedback for each blanket, then referenced product descriptions and additional research to create a comprehensive roundup of the best travel blankets today.
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