Buying Guide for the Best Packable Down Blanket
Choosing a packable down blanket is all about finding the right balance between warmth, portability, and practicality for your needs. These blankets are popular for camping, travel, picnics, or just as a cozy companion on the go. As you shop, it's important to look at the key features that determine how warm, comfortable, and easy-to-carry the blanket will be. By understanding these specs, you can decide which options are the best fit for how, where, and when you plan to use your blanket.Down Fill PowerDown fill power measures how much loft or fluff the down in the blanket has. This is important because it tells you how well the blanket will insulate and keep you warm without being heavy. Fill power usually ranges from about 500 to over 800. Lower numbers (500-600) mean the blanket is less puffy and a bit heavier for the same warmth, while higher numbers (700-800+) give more warmth with less weight and size. If you need a blanket mainly for chilly nights or colder climates, go for higher fill power. For milder temperatures or occasional indoor use, a lower fill power can be softer on your wallet and still keep you comfortable.
Blanket WeightThe weight of the blanket affects how easy it is to carry and how much warmth it provides. Very light blankets (under 1 pound) are perfect for travel or adding a bit of coziness but might not be warm enough for cold weather. Midweight blankets (1-2 pounds) can offer a good mix of warmth and portability for most outdoor activities. Heavier options (over 2 pounds) might be better for car camping or use where warmth is more important than compactness. Think about how and where you'll carry the blanket: backpackers and frequent travelers will often want lighter options, while those looking for maximum warmth may tolerate extra weight.
Packed SizePacked size tells you how small the blanket becomes when folded or compressed in its bag. This matters a lot if you have limited space, like in a backpack or carry-on. Blankets that pack down small (around the size of a water bottle or smaller) are ideal for travel or hiking. Larger packed sizes are easier to handle if you don’t need to minimize every inch. Your choice depends on how important portability is for your purposes.
Shell Fabric DurabilityThe outer fabric, often labeled with terms like '20D nylon' or 'ripstop polyester,' determines how tough and water-resistant your blanket is. Lighter fabrics (around 10-20 denier or 'D') are lighter and pack smaller but may be less durable against sharp objects. Thicker shells (above 30D) are stronger and stand more abuse but weigh a bit more. If you’ll use the blanket outdoors on rough ground or for pets, look for tougher shells. For sleeping in tents or lounging at home, lighter fabrics are fine.
Down vs. Synthetic FillWhile the focus is on down, some packable blankets also use synthetic fill. Down is warmer for its weight and packs very small but doesn’t perform well if it gets wet. Synthetic fill is bulkier and heavier but keeps some warmth even when wet and is easier to wash. Choose down if you want the best warmth-to-weight ratio and aren’t worried much about moisture. Pick synthetic if you need something that handles damp conditions or easy cleaning.
Size and CoveragePackable down blankets come in different sizes, from small throws to large blankets that cover two people. Smaller sizes (under 60x40 inches) are lighter and great for single users or kids, while larger ones (over 70x50 inches) offer more coverage for full-body warmth or sharing. Think about who will use the blanket and how much coverage you want – do you want just your lap covered, or to wrap yourself completely?
Special FeaturesSome blankets come with snaps, footboxes, hoods, or loops to wear like a cape, making them more versatile. Others have water-repellent coatings or stuff sacks with straps to attach to backpacks. Decide which extras would actually make a difference for you based on your activities: for example, if you’ll use the blanket as a wearable or in wet grass, those features may be worth seeking out.