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10 Best Camp Towels

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Buying Guide for the Best Camp Towels

Choosing the right camp towel is essential for making your outdoor adventures more comfortable and convenient. Unlike regular bath towels, camp towels are designed to be lightweight, quick-drying, and easy to pack, making them ideal for hiking, backpacking, and travel. To find the best fit, consider how and where you'll use the towel most often: whether it's for occasional day trips, extended camping, or anything in between. Understanding the key features will help you balance comfort, practicality, and performance.
MaterialThe material of a camp towel affects how quickly it dries, how soft it feels, and how compact it can be when packed. Microfiber is the most common material thanks to its fast-drying properties, lightweight feel, and high absorbency. Cotton towels may feel softer but take much longer to dry and are bulkier. If you prioritize compactness and quick drying, microfiber is usually the better option, but for more comfort or use in milder climates, cotton might suit you.
AbsorbencyAbsorbency refers to how much water the towel can soak up, which is particularly important for drying off quickly after a swim or shower. Highly absorbent towels are great for those who expect to get very wet or who use the towel frequently, while less absorbent towels dry out faster but might not be as effective for full-body drying. Match your level of absorbency to your activities: swimming and bathing usually call for higher absorbency, while for casual face or hand drying, lower is fine.
Drying TimeDrying time is how fast the towel dries after use, and it's especially important when space and time are limited, like on the trail or in humid environments. Quick-drying towels are usually made from synthetic materials and can be ready to use again within a short period. People moving to multiple locations or those who need to pack up early should prioritize fast-drying options, while those staying in one place for a while may be able to wait for a slower dry.
Pack Size and WeightPack size and weight indicate how easy it is to carry the towel in your backpack or bag. Lighter and more compact towels are great for hiking, minimalist camping, or travel when every ounce and inch counts. Heavier and larger towels can offer more comfort but take up more space, which might only make sense if you have extra room or primarily go car camping. Consider how much space you have and how far you must carry your gear when making this choice.
Size of the TowelTowel size matters for comfort and utility. Smaller towels are handy for drying hands or face and take up very little room. Medium sizes work well for general use, while larger towels offer more coverage and comfort for full-body drying but are bulkier to pack. Think about your intended use: if you want a towel only for emergency or minimal use, go small; if you want luxury or to fully wrap yourself, a larger towel is worth the space.
DurabilityDurability relates to how well the towel stands up to repeated use, washing, and outdoor conditions. Some materials and weaves resist fraying and tearing better than others. If you plan to use your camp towel frequently or in rugged environments, look for a product known for its tough construction. If it’s only for occasional use, a lighter-duty towel might suffice.
Anti-odor or Antimicrobial TreatmentSome camp towels feature treatments to resist odors and bacteria, making them more pleasant to use over time without frequent washing. This is particularly valuable if you are traveling in hot, humid environments or for extended trips with limited washing opportunities. If you expect long periods between washes, this feature becomes more important.
Ease of CleaningThe ease with which a towel can be washed and dried impacts long-term usability. Towels that are machine-washable and can be easily air-dried are generally more convenient, especially for longer adventures. If you anticipate needing to clean your towel frequently while camping or traveling, look for options made to handle many cycles of washing and drying.