Venturing into the great outdoors is a nostalgic pastime for many and a current passion for others. However, without proper preparation, you may find yourself out in the cold, and we’re not speaking metaphorically. Although the forests and mountains are stunning and often hot during the summer days, they get pretty cold at night all year round. Next time you plan to scout out the must do hikes in Utah or the best overnight camping spots, make sure you add warm and fluffy blankets like the ones below to your packing list.
Puffy Blankets
You may have already seen these popular blankets, which seem to be made from the same material as sleeping bags or puffy coats. They are durable, warm, comfortable, and large enough to wrap entirely around you. They are also easy to clean, making them a great option for sleeping on the ground or sitting around a campfire.
Minky Blankets
Minky blankets are incredibly versatile. They are so soft and beautiful that we tend to think of them as too nice for outdoor activities like camping, watching fireworks, or romantic picnics. However, they are surprisingly easy to clean. Plus, they come in various gorgeous designs, feel luxurious, and keep everyone cozy, no matter the temperature.
Wool Blankets
As long as your skin isn’t sensitive to wool, these blankets are ideal for camping, hiking, hanging out around the firepit, and more. They are durable, warm, and simple to wash. They are ideal for laying down under your sleeping bag or throwing over it for an added layer of warmth.
Denim Quilts
If you don’t quilt, you may want to start before your next camping trip. Although making your own is a lot of work, a quilt sewn from old blue jeans makes a fantastic camping accessory. It’s heavy-duty, super warm, and can have lots of fun pockets and zippers. It’s also possible to buy one if you aren’t ready to take on this project and can’t convince your mom or grandma to do it for you.
Fleece or Flannel Blankets
Fleece and flannel make great blankets for all occasions. They’re easy to find, easy to make, and easy to throw in the washing machine. Plus, you can choose from virtually any pattern and color of material at your local craft store and make them in any size you want.
How to Choose Which Blanket is Best
The best blankets for your outdoor adventures need to have a few important characteristics. They need to be warm, durable, large, and easy both to pack and clean. Minky blankets fit all these criteria and more. Imagine sitting next to your pals around the campfire, wrapped in a luxurious, fluffy blanket, making s’mores and telling ghost stories.
A good rule of thumb for camping is to bring at least one blanket that is just for you but large enough to share. If it gets really cold, you can cuddle or move your sleeping bags close together and put a blanket over both of you.
How to Clean a Minky
If you do decide to bring a minky, you’ll want to know how to get the dirt and campfire smell out of it when you get home. Fortunately, it’s easier than you might think. Wash it on the cold or delicate setting and avoid using detergent pods, dyes, scents, or fabric softener. Detergents for sensitive skin are good options, or you can use ¼ cup of baking soda and ½ cup of white vinegar.
Once the wash cycle is finished, you can hang or lay the blanket flat to air dry. You can also use the dryer if you choose a no-heat setting. Hot water or air can cause the fabric fibers to melt together and become hard, so remember to be strict about avoiding heat during the cleaning process.