Imagine this: you’ve just finished a refreshing dip in a crystal-clear mountain lake, or perhaps a much-needed wash after a long day’s hike. But then comes the moment of truth – reaching for your towel. Is it bulky and heavy? Does it take forever to dry? These are the real struggles of a backpacker!
Choosing the right backpacking towel can feel like a surprisingly big decision. You need something that dries quickly, doesn’t weigh down your pack, and actually gets you dry. Too often, hikers end up with towels that are either too thick, taking up precious space, or too thin, leaving them feeling damp. It’s a small item, but it makes a big difference in your comfort on the trail.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. We’ll break down what really matters when it comes to backpacking towels, from the best materials to the smartest features. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for, so you can finally ditch that soggy, heavy towel and embrace a lighter, drier, and happier backpacking experience.
Our Top 5 Backpacking Towel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Backpacking Towel Detailed Reviews
1. Rainleaf Microfiber Towel Perfect Travel & Gym & Camping Towel. Quick Dry – Super Absorbent – Ultra Compact – Lightweight. Suitable for Trip
Rating: 9.2/10
The Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is your go-to companion for all your adventures. Whether you’re hitting the gym, exploring the great outdoors, or just need a quick dry after a swim, this towel does it all. It’s super absorbent, dries fast, and packs down small, making it easy to carry anywhere.
What We Like:
- It soaks up water like a sponge, holding up to five times its own weight.
- The quick-drying feature means you can hang it up with the snap loop and it’s ready to go again in no time.
- It’s incredibly compact and lightweight, so it won’t take up much space in your bag.
- The included reusable carry bag has ventilation holes to keep it fresh.
- It feels soft and gentle on your skin, like a suede blanket.
- The largest size (40×72 inches) even has a zippered pocket for your small essentials.
- With six sizes and sixteen colors, there’s one for everyone in the family.
- It’s machine washable, resists sand, and is built to last.
What Could Be Improved:
- The zippered pocket is only on the largest size, which might be a drawback for smaller towel users.
- While it’s great for warmth, it might not be as cozy as a traditional blanket for very cold weather.
This versatile towel is a smart choice for anyone who needs a reliable and portable drying solution. It’s designed to make your travels and activities much more comfortable.
2. Eunzel Quick Dry Camping Towel
Rating: 9.4/10
The Eunzel Quick Dry Camping Towel set in Army Green is a fantastic option for anyone who loves adventure or just needs a reliable towel for everyday use. This set comes with three different sizes, so you have the perfect towel for any situation. Whether you’re hitting the gym, heading to the beach, or camping under the stars, these microfiber towels are designed to make your life easier.
What We Like:
- You get three towels in one pack, with sizes perfect for hands, travel, and showering.
- They soak up a lot of water and dry really fast, up to three times quicker than regular towels.
- The towels are super soft and feel nice against your skin.
- They come with a bag to pack them in and a loop to hang them up easily.
- They are also odor-resistant, meaning they stay fresh longer.
- Cleaning them is simple – you can wash them in the machine or hang them to dry.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the sizes are varied, some users might prefer more customization options for the sizes included.
This Eunzel towel set is a smart buy for its versatility and performance. It’s a great companion for all your adventures, big or small.
3. OlimpiaFit Quick Dry Towel – 3 Size Pack of Lightweight Microfiber Travel Towels w/Bag – Fast Drying Towel Set for Camping
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of bulky, slow-drying towels? The OlimpiaFit Quick Dry Towel set is here to solve your problems! This pack includes three lightweight microfiber towels in different sizes, all designed to be super compact and fast-drying. Whether you’re heading to the gym, the beach, or on a camping trip, these towels are your perfect companion.
What We Like:
- Compact Design: These towels fold down to be 4 times smaller than regular camping towels, making them super easy to pack.
- Fast Drying: Their special fibers absorb more water and dry up to 3 times faster than standard microfiber.
- Versatile Sizes: You get three towels: a large 50″x30″ for the beach or drying off, a medium 30″x15″ for the gym, and a small 15″x15″ for quick wipes.
- High Quality & Soft: Made with premium, smooth material that feels like satin. They are absorbent, resist odors, and stay fresh.
- Gentle on Skin: The extra plush microfiber is super soft and gentle on your face and body.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the towels are great, the included bag could be a bit more robust for long-term durability.
- The smooth surface, while nice, might be a little slippery for some if used as a yoga mat towel.
Overall, this OlimpiaFit Quick Dry Towel set is a fantastic investment for anyone needing a reliable, quick-drying, and compact towel solution for all their adventures.
4. Camping Towel
Rating: 9.5/10
Conquer your next adventure with this 2-pack of Army Green Microfiber Camping Towels. They are super absorbent, dry quickly, and are incredibly soft, making them perfect for all your outdoor and fitness needs. These towels are designed to be compact and lightweight, so they won’t weigh down your backpack. Whether you’re hitting the gym, practicing yoga, heading to the beach, or backpacking through the wilderness, these towels are your reliable companion.
What We Like:
- They come in three different sizes (S, M, L) to fit your specific needs, from a small hand towel to a large beach blanket.
- The microfiber fabric is gentle on your skin, won’t fade, and stays fresh without any bad smells.
- These towels soak up a lot of water and dry super fast, so you can use them again quickly.
- They are easy to pack thanks to a handy carry bag and have a loop for easy hanging.
- You can toss them in the washing machine, and they are resistant to sand, making them durable and easy to care for.
What Could Be Improved:
- The set comes in a specific color (Army Green), so color options might be limited.
- While designed for travel, the larger sizes might still take up a bit more space than some ultra-minimalist travelers prefer.
These versatile towels are a fantastic choice for anyone who enjoys an active lifestyle. They offer great performance and convenience for any trip or workout.
5. Youphoria Microfiber Travel Towel Fast Drying Lightweight – Quick Dry Towel for Camping
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready for your next adventure with the Youphoria Microfiber Travel Towel! This super absorbent and fast-drying towel is designed to be your go-to companion for camping, beach trips, hiking, sports, and anything else you can dream up. It’s lightweight, compact, and incredibly convenient for anyone on the move.
What We Like:
- Versatile Sizes: With three different sizes (20×40, 28×56, and 32×72 inches), you can pick the perfect towel for any need, whether it’s a small gym towel or a large beach towel.
- Super Absorbent Power: This towel can soak up five times its weight in water, making it incredibly effective after swimming or a sweaty workout.
- Quick Drying: It dries up to ten times faster than regular towels, so you won’t be left with a damp, heavy towel in your bag.
- Easy to Pack and Hang: Each towel comes with its own carry bag, and a handy snap loop lets you hang it anywhere to dry quickly.
- Soft and Gentle: The premium microfiber blend feels soft against your skin, making it comfortable for everyday use. It also does a great job of shaking off sand.
- Great Customer Support: Youphoria stands behind its products, offering excellent support if you ever have a problem.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the towel is very absorbent, some users might prefer a thicker, plusher feel for extended drying.
The Youphoria Microfiber Travel Towel is a fantastic choice for anyone who needs a reliable, quick-drying, and easy-to-pack towel. Its versatility and performance make it a smart addition to your travel gear.
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Perfect Backpacking Towel
When you’re out on the trail, every ounce matters. Your backpacking towel is a small item, but it can make a big difference in your comfort and hygiene. A good backpacking towel dries quickly, packs small, and feels good against your skin. Let’s dive into what makes a great backpacking towel.
Key Features to Look For
1. Absorbency
A backpacking towel needs to soak up water efficiently. You want it to dry you off without leaving you feeling damp. Look for towels that promise good absorbency.
2. Quick-Drying Ability
This is super important. You don’t want a wet towel hanging around in your pack, making everything else damp. Quick-drying towels are a lifesaver. They also help prevent mildew and bad smells.
3. Compactness and Lightweight
Space is precious in a backpack. Your towel should fold up small and not add much weight. Many backpacking towels are designed to be rolled or folded into a tiny bundle.
4. Durability
You’ll be using this towel a lot, so it needs to hold up. Check for strong stitching and materials that won’t fray or tear easily after many washes and uses.
5. Softness and Feel
While performance is key, comfort matters too. Some towels can feel a bit rough. Read reviews to see if people find the towel soft enough for their skin.
Important Materials
Microfiber
This is the most common material for backpacking towels. Microfiber is made of very fine synthetic fibers. It’s known for being super absorbent and drying really fast. It also packs down very small.
Cotton Blends
Some towels use a blend of cotton and synthetic materials. These can sometimes be softer than 100% microfiber but might not dry as quickly. They can also be a bit heavier.
Hemp or Bamboo Blends
These are becoming more popular. They are often eco-friendly and have natural anti-microbial properties, which helps prevent odors. They can also be quite soft and absorbent.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Towel Better:
- High-quality microfiber: Finer fibers usually mean better absorbency and faster drying.
- Reinforced edges: Strong stitching around the edges prevents the towel from unraveling.
- Integrated hanging loop: A small loop makes it easy to hang your towel to dry.
- Good size: A towel that’s large enough to dry you off properly but not so big it’s bulky.
What Can Make a Towel Worse:
- Cheap synthetic fibers: These might not absorb well or could feel scratchy.
- Poor stitching: This can lead to the towel falling apart after a few uses.
- Thick, heavy material: This adds unnecessary weight and bulk to your pack.
- Lack of a hanging loop: Makes drying much harder.
User Experience and Use Cases
Everyday Use
Even if you’re not backpacking, these towels are great for the gym, swimming, or even at home if you like fast-drying options.
Camping and Hiking
This is their main purpose! After a long hike, a refreshing dip in a lake, or just washing up at camp, a backpacking towel is essential.
Travel
If you’re staying in hostels or budget accommodations, a personal towel is a good idea. Backpacking towels are perfect because they are compact and dry fast.
Emergency Preparedness
Having a lightweight, quick-drying towel can be useful in various situations where you need to dry off quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I wash my backpacking towel?
A: Most backpacking towels can be machine washed with mild detergent. It’s best to wash them separately or with similar synthetic fabrics. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can reduce absorbency.
Q: Can I use a regular bath towel instead?
A: While you can, a regular bath towel is usually much heavier, bulkier, and takes much longer to dry. This can lead to dampness and smells in your backpack.
Q: How big should my backpacking towel be?
A: A common size is around 24×48 inches (60×120 cm). This is large enough to dry yourself but still manageable and packable.
Q: Will a microfiber towel snag on things?
A: High-quality microfiber is usually quite durable. However, it’s best to avoid snagging it on rough surfaces like sharp rocks or burrs to keep it in good condition.
Q: Do backpacking towels get smelly?
A: Like any towel, they can get smelly if left damp for too long. However, quick-drying materials like microfiber are less prone to mildew and odor buildup than traditional cotton towels.
Q: How do I dry my towel quickly on the trail?
A: Hang it from your backpack while you hike, or find a sunny spot to spread it out. The sooner it dries, the better.
Q: Are there different thicknesses of backpacking towels?
A: Yes, some are very thin and lightweight, while others are a bit thicker for more absorbency. Thicker towels might take slightly longer to dry but can feel plusher.
Q: Can I use my backpacking towel for cleaning dishes?
A: It’s generally not recommended to use your personal drying towel for washing dishes. It’s better to have a separate, smaller cloth for cleaning camp kitchen items.
Q: How often should I replace my backpacking towel?
A: With proper care, a good backpacking towel can last for many years. You’ll know it’s time to replace it when it loses its absorbency, starts to fray badly, or develops persistent odors.
Q: What’s the difference between a backpacking towel and a beach towel?
A: Backpacking towels are designed for performance: lightweight, compact, and fast-drying. Beach towels are usually larger, heavier, and made of cotton, prioritizing softness and absorbency for lounging.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Gareth Lewis, and I’m the voice behind CampingGuider.com.. I created this space to share my passion for camping and the great outdoors. With years of experience and countless adventures under my belt, I aim to inspire and guide fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a curious beginner, my goal is to provide you with practical tips, honest reviews, and insights to help you make the most out of your outdoor escapades. Join me on this journey, and let’s explore the beauty of nature together!