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10 Best Backpacking Towel
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Buying Guide for the Best Backpacking Towel
Choosing a backpacking towel is crucial because it directly impacts your comfort, hygiene, and the load you carry while trekking. Unlike regular towels, backpacking towels are designed to be lightweight, compact, and quick-drying, which makes them ideal for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or traveling, the right towel will help you stay fresh without taking up much space or adding extra weight to your pack. When picking a towel, focus on how, where, and how often you’ll use it—different towels suit different needs and environments.Size and WeightThe size and weight of a backpacking towel determine how much space and load it adds to your pack and how practical it is for your intended use. Larger towels are more comfortable for full body drying or as a makeshift blanket, but they can be bulkier and heavier. Smaller towels save space and weight, making them ideal for ultralight backpackers or for use as face and hand towels. To choose, think about your travel style: if you prioritize minimalism, go for a small, lightweight towel. If you value comfort and versatility, a larger towel may be worth the extra bulk.
MaterialBackpacking towels are commonly made from microfiber, which is known for being both lightweight and highly absorbent, with a soft texture. Alternatively, some options are made from bamboo or other synthetic blends. The material affects how quickly the towel dries, how much water it absorbs, and how soft it feels against your skin. Microfiber dries fastest and is lightest, while bamboo feels softer and is more eco-friendly. Pick a material that matches your comfort needs and environmental preferences—if you’re often in humid conditions, prioritize fast-drying microfiber.
AbsorbencyAbsorbency describes how much water the towel can soak up before it feels saturated. High-absorbency towels will dry you off quickly and thoroughly but can take a bit longer to dry out. Low-absorbency towels may dry out faster but require more effort for full body drying. If you anticipate needing to dry off after swimming or heavy rain, or if you plan to use the towel frequently, a more absorbent towel is ideal. For shorter or dryer trips, absorbency may be less critical.
Drying TimeA towel’s drying time is how quickly it goes from wet to dry. Quick-drying towels let you pack up without waiting or worry about mildew, which is especially important in humid environments or if you’re moving camp every day. You can tell a towel will dry quickly if it’s made from thin, microfiber material. If you need a towel for daily use or you’ll be in places that don’t dry things out fast, fast-drying capability should be a priority. For casual, occasional use, this might be less of a concern.
PackabilityPackability refers to how small and easy the towel is to stash in your bag. Towels that come with their own carrying pouch or that can be tightly rolled or folded are best for saving space. If your backpack is small or you like to keep your gear organized, a towel with high packability will make life a lot easier. Look for measurements when compressed, and if your main concern is minimizing space, smaller and thinner towels win here.
Comfort and TextureComfort is all about how the towel feels on your skin. Some backpacks towels can feel a bit slick or synthetic, while others feel softer and more like what you’re used to at home. If you have sensitive skin or will use the towel to wrap around yourself, texture might be a higher priority. Physically check the feel if possible or read user feedback to decide what suits your comfort preference.
Antimicrobial PropertiesSome towels are treated to resist the growth of bacteria and odors, which is helpful if you’ll go several days without washing your towel. While not always necessary, antimicrobial treatments are a plus for long trips, humid climates, or when hygiene is especially important. If you tend to sweat a lot or anticipate using the same towel repeatedly before washing it, this is a worthwhile feature to seek out.
Hanging Loop or SnapA simple but handy feature is a loop or snap corner, which lets you easily hang the towel from a branch, hook, or your backpack to dry on the go. If you want convenience and ensure good airflow while drying, look for this feature—it makes the drying process easier and prevents your towel from getting misplaced or dirty.