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Let me tell you about the camping towels I’ve found to be the best, with a few mini-reviews to give you a sense of what makes them stand out. Afterward, I’ll cover what I think are the key factors you should keep in mind when picking one for yourself. I’m also curious—what towel do you swear by for your trips?
Top 3 Camping Towels
PackTowl Personal Quick Dry Microfiber Towel for Camping
I recently tried the PackTowl Personal Quick Dry Microfiber Towel on a camping trip, and I have to say, it lives up to the hype! As someone who enjoys camping and being outdoors, I always look for gear that’s lightweight and practical, and this towel checks all the boxes.
First off, this towel is incredibly lightweight and compact. I chose the Body size, which is big enough to cover me after a shower but folds down small enough to stash in my backpack without taking up much space. I was amazed at how something so large can fit into such a tiny mesh pouch—perfect for those of us who like to pack light but still want comfort. And that carabiner clip on the pouch? It’s a nice touch for easy hanging when you’re on the move.
What really blew me away, though, is how absorbent and quick-drying it is. This towel can absorb up to four times its weight in water and dries 70% faster than cotton. On a humid day, it still dried in just about 20 minutes when hung outdoors, which was a huge win. I didn’t have to worry about packing a damp towel away, and even if I did, it has Polygiene odor control, so it stays fresh longer between washes—definitely useful when you’re on a multi-day trip without access to laundry facilities.
The towel is also soft, which surprised me. I’m used to microfiber towels feeling a bit rough, but this one felt great against the skin. It’s also made from 50% recycled materials, so there’s an added eco-friendly bonus. Plus, it’s durable—after a few months of use, the towel shows no signs of wear, though the mesh pouch zipper has started to fray a little. Minor issue, but worth noting.
If you’re looking for a quick-dry towel for camping, hiking, or even a day at the beach, the PackTowl Personal is a must-have. It’s a solid investment for outdoor enthusiasts like me who value efficiency and space-saving gear. It might be a bit pricier than some of the other options, but the quality makes it totally worth it. I’m definitely keeping mine for future adventures!
Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Towel
When it comes to camping towels, I’ve always been a bit skeptical—can they really be compact, quick-drying, and still feel good on the skin? But then I gave the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Towel a try, and I have to say, I’m genuinely impressed.
Right off the bat, the compact size is a game-changer. It barely takes up any space in my backpack, leaving me more room for other essentials. When you’re out on the trail, you know how important it is to pack smart, and this towel’s portability is a win. I love that it comes with its own mesh carry bag, which helps keep it separate from other gear when it’s still damp after use.
Speaking of dampness, this towel is a superstar when it comes to quick-drying. I used it after a morning dip in a chilly lake, and within no time, it was dry enough to pack away. This is a huge plus because nobody wants to carry around a soggy towel, especially when camping. And, yes, it really is super absorbent. For such a lightweight item, it does a stellar job of soaking up water—whether I’m drying off after a swim or a quick rinse at the campsite.
I was also surprised at how soft it felt. I’ve used other camping towels that felt like drying off with sandpaper (no thank you!), but the Wise Owl towel was different. It’s made of microfiber, which has a nice, smooth feel on the skin. It’s not exactly plush like your bath towel at home, but for a microfiber towel, it’s one of the more comfortable ones I’ve tried.
One thing that really stood out to me is how versatile this towel is. I initially bought it for camping, but it’s now my go-to for everything outdoors—hiking, kayaking, even trips to the gym. The range of sizes offered means you can grab a smaller one for sweat-wiping or a larger one for full-body use. Plus, it’s available in a bunch of colors, which is a nice touch if you like to add a bit of personal flair to your gear.
If I had to nitpick, I’d say the towel can sometimes hold onto a bit of that “camp smell” if you don’t air it out properly, but that’s an easy fix with a quick wash once you’re back home.
Overall, the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Towel has exceeded my expectations. It checks all the boxes for what I want in a camping towel—compact, fast-drying, lightweight, and absorbent—all while being super convenient for travel and everyday outdoor adventures. If you’re on the hunt for the best camping towel, this one should definitely be on your shortlist.
Sea to Summit Drylite Towel
I’ve always been on the lookout for the perfect camping towel—something compact, absorbent, and quick-drying. The Sea to Summit Drylite Towel has become one of my top picks after taking it on multiple camping trips. If you’re like me and love the outdoors but hate lugging around bulky towels, this one’s a real game changer.
First off, the Sea to Summit Drylite Towel is impressively lightweight and packs down small, which is a huge win when you’re trying to keep your camping gear minimal. I remember the first time I squeezed it into my already-full backpack—it barely took up any space, which was a relief because I needed that extra room for snacks!
One of the standout features for me is how quickly it dries. After a day of hiking and then a dip in a nearby lake, I hung it out to dry, and within no time, it was ready for the next use. I’ve had other towels that just never seem to dry completely, leaving you with that unpleasant damp smell, but not with this one.
Absorbency is another big plus. Despite being so thin, the Sea to Summit Drylite Towel soaks up more water than I expected. After a shower at the campground, it was more than enough to dry off, and I didn’t feel like I had to wring it out after every wipe. It’s also super soft against the skin, which I appreciate, especially after a long day in the elements.
I also love that it comes in different sizes. Whether you need a face towel for a quick freshen-up or a larger one for drying off after a swim, you can pick whichever size suits your needs. I opted for the large, and it works perfectly for me, but I can see how having a smaller one as a backup would be handy too.
One small drawback I noticed, and this is just a personal preference, is that it’s not as plush as a traditional towel, but that’s the trade-off for how compact and fast-drying it is. Honestly, when I’m camping, I’m more concerned about function than fluff, so this hasn’t been a dealbreaker for me.
In terms of value, I think it’s well worth the investment if you’re looking for a durable, high-performing towel for camping or even travel. The Sea to Summit Drylite Towel ticks all the boxes for an outdoor adventure—lightweight, quick-drying, and absorbent. It’s one of those items that has made its way into my must-have camping gear.
If you’re gearing up for your next camping trip and need a reliable towel, I highly recommend giving this one a try!
The Best Camping Towels: Buyer’s Guide
When you’re out camping, having the right towel can make all the difference. Whether it’s for drying off after a swim in the lake, wiping down gear, or freshening up after a long hike, your camping towel needs to perform. After testing out several options, I’ve found that not all camping towels are created equal. Let me walk you through some key considerations that I think make a camping towel truly great.
Price
Let’s start with the obvious: price. Camping towels come in a range of prices, from budget-friendly to top-of-the-line. My advice? Don’t go for the cheapest option just because it’s tempting. I’ve learned the hard way that you often end up with a towel that doesn’t hold up after a few uses. That said, you don’t need to break the bank, either. Look for something mid-range that offers great features without the hefty price tag. Typically, a solid camping towel will run you between $15 to $40 depending on the size and material.Drying Performance and Speed
One of the biggest factors in choosing a camping towel is how quickly it dries. You don’t want to lug around a damp, smelly towel all day. Microfiber towels, in particular, dry fast, which is why I prefer them for camping. When you’re on the go, it’s important to have something that can dry quickly, so it’s ready for your next use. Some brands even offer quick-drying technology, which, in my experience, actually works wonders.Absorbency
You’d think all towels absorb water well, but camping towels can vary. Some are incredibly thin and barely soak up water, which can be super frustrating. A good camping towel will absorb a surprising amount of water without feeling like a sponge. In my experience, microfiber towels are the winners here, offering a nice balance between absorbency and fast drying. A towel that can quickly mop up after a swim or wipe down sweat after a hike is a must-have in my book.Anti-Microbial Properties
Let’s face it, camping can get sweaty and dirty, and the last thing you want is a towel that smells like mildew after a couple of days. That’s where anti-microbial treatments come in. Towels with anti-microbial properties can resist odor, which is especially useful if you’re camping for several days without washing. I always look for towels with this feature because they stay fresh longer, even when you’re miles away from the nearest laundry.Material
Camping towels are often made from microfiber, but not all microfibers are the same. You’ll want something soft, durable, and comfortable against your skin. Some cheaper towels feel rough or plasticky, and trust me, after a day of sunburn or sweat, that’s the last thing you want. I prefer a towel that has a softer, suede-like feel, even if it costs a bit more. The material also affects how compact the towel is when packed away, so you want something that balances softness with packability.Size, Weight, and Packability
Let’s talk about size. Towels come in everything from face cloth size to full body wraps. I like to keep a couple of different sizes on hand depending on the trip. For a weekend hike, a medium-sized towel is perfect – large enough to be useful, but small enough to pack easily. Weight is also important. You don’t want to carry around extra bulk, especially if you’re backpacking. Look for towels that come with a compact carrying case or strap – they pack down small and take up minimal space in your bag.Comfort
There’s nothing worse than a towel that feels scratchy or irritates your skin, especially after a long, hard day outdoors. Comfort is something I never skimp on. A camping towel should feel soft and comfortable, even if it’s made from quick-drying synthetic material. When shopping, I give it the old “cheek test” – if it doesn’t feel good against my face, it’s probably not worth it.Extras
I love it when a camping towel comes with thoughtful extras. Some towels come with handy loops for easy hanging, which is incredibly practical when you’re camping. Others might come with a small, matching pouch or mesh bag for storage. I’ve even seen some with built-in snap closures, so you can use them as a makeshift wrap or attach them to your backpack to dry as you walk. These small features can make a big difference in convenience, so keep an eye out for them when you’re shopping.I’ve personally been using the Sea to Summit Drylite Towel on my last few camping trips, and I have to say, its drying speed is impressive. It’s super compact and fits easily in my pack, which is a bonus for those longer hikes.
I’ve also noticed that it stays fresh longer than other towels, thanks to its antimicrobial treatment. Another great option I’ve tried is the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Towel, which is a bit softer and feels great against the skin after a day of exploring. It’s also super absorbent
Camping towels might not seem like the most exciting piece of gear, but trust me—they’re total game-changers when you’re trying to stay dry and comfy in the great outdoors. If you’re not sure what to look for or how to make the most of your towel, here are the top three questions I get about camping towels—and my answers to keep things fun and functional.
1. What makes a camping towel different from a regular towel?
Oh, where do I begin? Camping towels are the superheroes of the towel world. They’re super lightweight, dry faster than you can say, “Is the coffee ready yet?” and don’t take up half your pack like your giant beach towel would. Plus, most are made from microfiber, which is crazy absorbent and doesn’t get that gross, damp smell as quickly. Trust me, once you use a camping towel, you’ll wonder why you ever lugged a fluffy bath towel into the woods.2. Are camping towels really as absorbent as regular towels?
Yes, and sometimes even more so! It’s wild how much water those thin, compact towels can soak up. The first time I used one, I thought, “There’s no way this tiny thing will dry me off.” Spoiler: it did—fast. Just remember, they work best with a little technique. Instead of rubbing like you’re trying to win a towel-off, try patting or dabbing to get the job done. It’s gentler on the towel and your skin.3. How do I clean and care for a camping towel?
Good news—it’s easier than you think. Most camping towels are machine washable, but skip the fabric softener (it messes with their absorbency). If you’re camping for multiple days, rinse it out and hang it to dry after each use—most come with handy loops for hanging. And here’s a fun tip: if it starts to get a little funky, a quick rinse with a tiny drop of soap and fresh air will work wonders. Bonus points if you dry it in the sun—it’s like a mini spa day for your towel.Camping Towels: Lessons Learned the Hard Way
I never thought much about camping towels—until I learned what not to bring into the wilderness. If you’re new to the world of lightweight, quick-drying towels, let me save you from making the same mistakes I did. 🚀
🛑 Mistake #1: Bringing a Regular Bath Towel
My first trip, I packed my soft, fluffy, oversized bath towel. Huge mistake. By day two, it was a damp, smelly, soggy mess that refused to dry. Not to mention it took up half my backpack. Lesson learned.
💦 Mistake #2: Thinking “Quick Dry” Meant Instant Dry
Yes, camping towels dry fast, but let’s be real—they’re not magic. I once balled mine up and stuffed it in my pack, expecting it to dry. Nope. It smelled like a wet dog by the end of the trip. Always hang it up, even if it’s just for a few minutes!
🏕️ Mistake #3: Not Bringing a Backup Towel
I got cocky and brought only one towel on a five-day camping trip. Then, I accidentally dropped it in the mud mid-drying. Pro tip: a tiny backup towel is worth the extra few ounces in your pack.
🚿 Mistake #4: Using My Camping Towel for Everything
Drying dishes? Check. Wiping sweat? Check. Sitting on it by the campfire? Yep. By the time I actually needed to dry off, it smelled like a mix of sunscreen, campfire smoke, and regret. If you’re gonna multitask, at least rinse it between uses.
Camping towels are lifesavers—but only if you use them right! What’s your biggest camping towel fail? 😂
Can We Talk About How Soft These Towels Are?
Okay, let’s be real. When you hear “microfiber camping towel”, you don’t exactly expect it to feel like luxury spa material, right? But some of these towels are shockingly soft. Like, “I might ditch my home towels” soft.
🎯 Here’s why I love a good, soft camping towel:
- No more scratchy, cheap microfiber – Some feel like sandpaper. The good ones? Smooth and comfy!
- Perfect post-swim coziness – Wrapping up in a warm, soft towel after a chilly morning lake dip? Chef’s kiss.
- Doubles as a blanket – I’ve 100% used mine as a blanket during a cold night by the fire. No regrets.
That said, I have felt some camping towels that were about as soft as a dish sponge. So, if you’re shopping for one, make sure you check the reviews before buying. Your skin will thank you.
What’s the softest camping towel you’ve ever used? Or are you still drying off with that stiff old thing you bought five years ago? 😆
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