The 11 Best Travel Blankets of 2023 | by Travel + Leisure

Travel blankets are an excellent way to keep warm and cozy during a flight or train ride. They are usually more compact and lightweight than regular blankets but the best options offer much more than temperature regulation — they can be multitasking powerhouses depending on the style and type you choose.

Throw blankets made from luxurious fabrics, for example, can also replace the need to pack a jacket since they double as an evening shawl. Others, designed explicitly with cold weather and rugged conditions in mind, can serve as picnic blankets or a water-resistant base layer for a sleeping bag. But, no matter what, travel blankets are about maximizing comfort.

Scroll down to see our top picks for the best travel blankets for any adventure.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Sagefinds PGI Traders Soft Travel Blanket with Bag at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Blanket Set:EverSnug Travel Blanket and Pillow at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Cashmere:Naked Cashmere 4-piece Travel Set at Nakedcashmere.comJump to ReviewBest Multi-use:Travelrest Travel Blanket at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Coverage:L.L.Bean Stowaway Blanket at L.L.BeanJump to ReviewBest for Camping:Yeti Lowlands Blanket at AmazonJump to ReviewBest for the Beach :SlowTide Opt Out Cotton Throw Blanket at NordstromJump to ReviewBest for Kids:Roamwild Kids Travel Pillow at AmazonJump to ReviewMost Stylish:White + Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Weighted:Gravity Flex Travel Blanket at AmazonJump to Review

Best Overall

Sagefinds PGI Traders Soft Travel Blanket with Bag

View On AmazonWhy We Love It

It’s compact and easy to clean.

What to Consider

The fabric is not very thick.

A packing list of versatile items is essential, especially if you like to travel light as it will save space and ensure you are well-prepared for any adventure. Travel blankets certainly fall into that category. We picked this PGI Traders blanket as our top choice because it perfectly blends form and function and checks all the boxes of the perfect general-use travel blanket.

At 65 x 40 inches, it is large enough to cover a 5-foot 7-inch person from the chest down. Thanks to a warm blend of polyester and cotton, it will keep you cozy during a long-haul flight or a breezy summer evening. However, keep in mind that the fabric is not super thick, which is good news for those who care about how well it packs. It allows the blanket to fold into a very compact rectangle that can then be stored in its own case to double as a pillow. Thanks to the high percentage of polyester in the fabric, the blanket is extra soft and will dry much faster than one made entirely from cotton (beach-bound travelers, take notice).  

Finally, once you’re back from your travels, throw it in the washing machine and wash it in cold water to keep it clean and in perfect condition. However, avoid drying it at high heat because it will shrink the blanket.

Price at time of publish: $30

The Details: 65 x 40 inches | Polyester, cotton | 13.1 ounces | Machine wash

Best Blanket Set

EverSnug Travel Blanket and Pillow

View On AmazonWhy We Love It

The fabric is next-level plush.

What to Consider

Despite having the same dimensions, it is bulkier than our best overall option.

If you want the softest, plushest, most lightweight blanket for your next long-haul flight, you’ve come to the right place. This polyester blanket is so soft and fuzzy that it will instantly set you up for a cozier in-flight experience.

It has standard dimensions (65 x 40 inches), and when folded, it transforms into a comfy pillow that you can store and carry in its equally soft pouch. Also nice: the fleece fabric doesn’t pill, so its fibers won’t end up all over your clothes. 

The blanket does not require dry cleaning, but since it is made from 100 percent polyester, you should wash it in cold water and let it air dry afterward. 

Price at time of publish: $35

The Details: 65 x 40 inches | Polyester fleece | 1.17 pounds | Machine wash

Best Cashmere

Naked Cashmere 4-piece Travel Set

View On Nakedcashmere.comWhy We Love It

It’s a bundle of four cashmere in-flight essentials.

What to Consider

The set is pricey since all the items are made from cashmere.

There’s a reason why cashmere is one of the most expensive and luxurious fabrics. Divinely soft, it perfectly regulates body temperature by keeping you warm when it’s chilly and cool when temperatures rise. 

This four-in-one cashmere travel set will certainly elevate your in-flight experience even in coach. It offers a sleep mask (cashmere is hypoallergenic and, like silk, feels very soft against the delicate eye area); a pair of stylish cable-knit socks with an elastic hemline for a more secure fit; a cashmere throw that can easily double as a blanket; and an elegant matching scarf. When not in use, you can store all these items in their pouch, which is also 100 percent cashmere and serves as a pillowcase.

As for dimensions, cashmere is pretty compact so, if you want to store the set in your carry-on, it won’t take up nearly as much space as other travel blankets.

Price at time of publish: $450

The Details: 82 x 50 inches (blanket) | Cashmere | Hand wash cold or dry clean

Best Multi-use

Travelrest Travel Blanket

View On AmazonView On WalmartWhy We Love It

The case is attached to the blanket so that you won’t lose it.

What to Consider

It has a poncho-style fit, so it might only partially cover your legs, depending on your height.

Thanks to a smart design, this travel blanket is a multitasking wonder. If you tend to toss and turn a lot during flights (let’s face it, airline seats are not exactly a Four Seasons bed), the poncho-inspired cut of this blanket will ensure it stays put and doesn’t end up in your lap or by your feet. We love that the head opening is big enough so it effortlessly slips on and doesn’t feel tight. It also has short sleeves for some extra arm coverage.

Another very helpful feature? While most travel blankets come with carrying pouches, this one is designed with a zipper case attached to it. You’ll never lose or forget that, and you can use it to store small in-flight essentials such as your glasses, lip balm, or earphones while using the blanket. Lastly, it comes in two sizes both made from a machine-washable plush fleece. 

Price at time of publish: $30

The Details: 38 x 72 inches or 40 x 60 inches | Polyester | Machine wash

Best Coverage

L.L.Bean Stowaway Blanket

View On L.L.BeanView On Pikeandrose.comWhy We Love It

It is extra large and has two distinct sides.

What to Consider

Fitting the blanket into its carrying pouch is difficult.

If you find standard airline blankets too small and thin, then this L.L.Bean travel blanket is the right choice for you. While standard blanket dimensions are usually 60 x 40 inches, this one measures 75.5 x 42 inches, giving you plenty of extra fabric along the length (and, if you travel with a child, this blanket will be enough to cover both you and the child).

L.L.Bean is also known for its well-made outdoor gear, and this blanket is no exception. It has two faces — a smooth base side and a softer, slightly more textured microfiber side, transforming it into a sturdy option for camping trips or other more rugged adventures. 

Despite the thicker construction and larger size, this blanket is still pretty travel-friendly and, when rolled tightly, fits into a drawstring bag that can be attached to a backpack.

Price at time of publish: $40

The Details: 75.5 x 42 inches | Polyester | Machine wash and dry

Best for Camping

Yeti Lowlands Blanket

4.7

View On AmazonView On REIView On Cabelas.comWhy We Love It

Its waterproof side repels dirt and pet hair.

What to Consider

It is heavier than standard travel blankets.

Outdoor and camping enthusiasts need a travel blanket that keeps them warm, holds up well in rugged conditions, and lends itself to different uses. And Yeti’s Lowlands blanket does it all.

The extra-large blanket has three distinct layers: the bottom side which is waterproof, the mid-insulating layer which ensures you stay cozy on a cold night, and the top side which is made from a blend of high-performing polyester and rayon for extra softness and comfort.

Six utility loops on the sides allow you to stake down the blanket and use it during picnics or beach bonfires. Another handy feature pet owners will appreciate? The fabric repels pet hair and dirt, so your four-legged friends can enjoy its warmth without making a mess.

Price at time of publish: $200

The Details: 78 x 55 inches | Polyester, rayon | 5.8 pounds | Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

Best for the Beach

SlowTide Opt Out Cotton Throw Blanket

View On NordstromView On RevolveView On Slowtide.coWhy We Love It

The chambray fabric is super lightweight and gets softer with time.

What to Consider

It doesn’t come with a carrying pouch.

Don’t forget to pack this SlowTide multipurpose beach blanket for the warm summer days and breezy evenings ahead. Why do we love it so much? It is more than just a blanket. Cut from high-quality organic cotton, it has the lightweight feel and airy texture of Turkish towels, which means it dries super fast and can double as your go-to beach towel. 

It is generous in size, so if you use it as a picnic blanket, it has enough room for a couple of adults to sit. And if you take it on your next flight, you can fold it mid-length and still be left with enough fabric to cover most of your body for an added layer of warmth. And, lastly, we especially love the fun fringed trim and the wave-inspired print. 

Price at time of publish: $65

The Details: 66 x 80 inches | Organic cotton | Machine wash, tumble dry

The Best Sleep and Eye Masks for Restful Travels

Best for Kids

Roamwild Kids Travel Pillow

View On AmazonWhy We Love It

The armrest cover turns it into a cushion.

What to Consider

The armrest cover is pretty wide, so it may slip off.

Traveling with kids is challenging, from carrying their travel gear to keeping them entertained and ensuring they are comfortable enough to nap. Well, this cute travel blanket is here to make the latter a bit easier.

It is made from soft and fuzzy polyester that will immediately make them cozier. But the best thing about it is the penguin carrying sleeve, designed to slide over the armrest and turn it into a cushion. The entire case is padded, so your child will stay comfortable as the penguin rotates around the armrest.

And, yes, the sleeve and the blanket are machine washable, so cleaning messes is easy (you’re welcome!)

Price at time of publish: $30

The Details: 33.5 x 23.5 inches | Polyester | 10.6 ounces | Machine wash

Most Stylish

White + Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap

View On AmazonView On Maisonette.comView On Saks Fifth AvenueWhy We Love It

 It does quadruple duty as a chic wrap, a shawl, a blanket, and a pillow.

What to Consider

At this price, it is an investment piece. 

The moment your skin touches the ultra-soft surface of this gorgeous travel wrap, you realize why so many travelers are obsessed with it. The two-ply, buttery cashmere fabric feels like a cloud enwrapping your body. And you can probably wrap your entire body, too, since this blanket has a very generous size. 

Once you get off the plane, you can style it as a chic scarf around your neck or drape it over your shoulders as a shawl. The possibilities — and stylish looks — are endless. And with 19 color options, the hardest thing we had to do was pick just one (we opted for regal blue). This wrap is also available in silky cashmere with more of a sheen to it.

Yes, you do have to hand wash or dry clean it, but that’s a small price to pay for this level of softness and luxury.

Price at time of publish: $350

The Details: 81 x 36 inches | Cashmere | Hand wash or dry clean

Best Weighted

Gravity Flex Travel Blanket

View On AmazonView On Gravityblankets.comWhy We Love It

The weight is always uniformly distributed due to the gridded stitching pattern. 

What to Consider

It is bulky.

Weighted blankets reduce stress, calm you down, and make it easier to catch your Zs while traveling. So if you struggle with flight anxiety, one way to make those hours in the air more bearable is to pack this travel blanket. While regular weighted blankets weigh 15 to 25 pounds, this one is designed with glass beads and weighs in at 10. This means you still get that snuggly feeling without having to carry a super heavy blanket around. Also helpful: the fabric wicks away moisture to keep you cool.

And, speaking of carrying, this blanket comes with a drawstring pouch to keep it clean. However, keep in mind that when folded, it is still on the bulky side.

Price at time of publish: $100

The Details: 48 x 66 inches | Cotton | 10 pounds | Spot clean

Best With Sleeves

Therm-a-rest Honcho Poncho Wearable Hoodie Blanket

View On AmazonView On REIView On Thermarest.comWhy We Love It

It is insulated to provide extra warmth.

What to Consider

The hood is not removable.

If you’re always cold, whether at the airport or on a camping trip, this poncho-slash-blanket will be your favorite travel item from now on. The secret to its impossibly cozy feel is the insulation — compressed water-resistant synthetic fill — that keeps you warm without bulking up the blanket.

If you prefer to wear it as a poncho, it has side snaps to help you create the sleeves, which, depending on how long your arms are, will reach your elbows. The kangaroo pocket is handy for storing small essentials, while the hood keeps your head warm and dry (although we wished it was removable).

Price at time of publish: $135

The Details: 79 x 56 inches | Polyester | 1.8 pounds | Hand wash or machine wash on delicate, hang dry or tumble dry on low heat

Tips for Buying a Travel Blanket

Get the right material for your intended use

Travel blankets come in many fabric varieties and blends. One of the most frequently used fabrics is polyester, and a combination of polyester and cotton usually make up those standard plush fleece airplane blankets. The benefits of polyester are that it is extra soft, dries fast, and doesn’t wrinkle.

However, if you’re looking for a natural alternative, invest in a good-quality cotton or cashmere blanket. Premium cashmere is known for its superior softness and temperature-regulating qualities. A cashmere blanket can also easily double as an elegant wrap as it drapes well and looks sophisticated.

And if you need something sturdier to take on camping or glamping trips, look for an option that provides insulation — those are usually made from polyester or nylon and have synthetic fill as insulation.

Consider care needs

Fact: your travel blanket will get dirty so, to make your life easier, check the care instructions before you hit “add to cart.” Blankets cut from fabrics that need special care will make it more time-consuming to clean by hand or more expensive due to dry cleaning fees.

Polyester and cotton blankets are usually machine washable, while cashmere or wool blankets should be hand washed (with special detergent) or dry-cleaned.

Look for extras that enhance convenience 

Shopping for a travel blanket doesn’t mean you have to compromise on useful features to get a compact size — quite the opposite. 

These products are designed with many extras with travelers’ comfort and convenience in mind. Some blankets, for example, come with foot pockets to keep your feet warm, and others have zippered kangaroo pockets to store small travel essentials. 

And there’s an entire section of travel blankets that can be worn as ponchos with sleeves and hoods for added warmth and coverage. Fortunately, most travel blankets also come with carrying pouches that help keep them clean and double as pillowcases.

Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat size should a travel blanket be?

The size of your travel blanket will entirely depend on your preferences. Many adult blankets measure 60 x 40 inches (or the size of a standard airline blanket). If you are tall or prefer to have some extra fabric, some companies offer styles up to 80 inches in length and 60 to 70 inches in width. A similar size blanket is enough to cover two people.

How do I wash a travel blanket?

Always check your travel blanket’s care label before throwing it in the washing machine. This will ensure your blanket stays in top condition for longer. 

Most blankets should be washed in cold water and air-dried. Avoid high heat with polyester and cotton blankets since this damages the fibers and may shrink your blanket. 

And if you have purchased a cashmere or wool travel blanket, hand wash it in cold water with a mild detergent and lay flat to dry.

How do I pack a travel blanket?

Since most travel blankets come with their own carrying pouches, they are very convenient to pack. Many must be tightly rolled to fit into that bag while others can be folded and placed inside (or even simply stuffed into the corresponding pouch).

We recommend you hand carry or hang bulkier travel blankets on a backpack or suitcase handle since they can take up a lot of room inside a bag. If you can’t fit the folded blanket inside your personal item, you can also drape it on your body when boarding instead.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L contributor Dobrina Zhekova always packs a travel blanket during her trips, so she has tested and reviewed dozens of styles including travel wraps and shawls. For this story, she also referenced other travel professionals’ recommendations and customer reviews to select the most reliable, long-lasting, and comfortable travel blankets on the market right now.

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