The Benefits of a Blanket
One of the most important pieces of gear to bring on a hike is a blanket. A blanket can provide warmth on a cold night, shelter from the sun, and extra padding for sleeping. Blankets are also light and easy to pack, making them a great addition to any hiker’s gear. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of bringing a blanket on a hike.
Protection from the Elements
A blanket can provide much-needed protection from the elements when you’re out on a hike. If the weather turns cold or wet, a blanket can help you stay warm and dry. Similarly, if it gets hot, a blanket can provide shade and help you stay cool. In short, a blanket is an essential piece of gear for any hiker who wants to be prepared for all conditions.
Insulation
One of the most important functions of a blanket is insulation. By definition, insulation is material that does not allow heat to flow through it easily. This is why blankets are often used in cold weather because they trap your body heat and prevent the warm air from escaping. This trapped heat then keeps you warm throughout the night.
While most people associate insulation with cold weather, it can actually be very beneficial in hot weather as well. In hotter climates, a blanket can help you stay cool by blocking out the sun’s rays and preventing your body from overheating.
There are many different types of materials that can be used for insulation, but some of the most common include down, wool, cotton, and synthetic fibers.
Extra warmth
A blanket can provide extra warmth on a cold night, and it can also be used as an extra layer of protection when camping or engaging in other outdoor activities. Some people use blankets as makeshift tents when they are not near a regular shelter.
How to Choose a Hiking Blanket
A hiking blanket is an important piece of gear for hikers, providing both warmth and comfort on the trail. Choosing the right hiking blanket can be the difference between a comfortable night’s sleep and a cold, uncomfortable night spent shivering under the stars. There are a few things to consider when choosing a hiking blanket, such as size, weight, material, and fill.
Material
The material of your hiking blanket is important for two reasons. The first is weight and the second is insulation. You want a lightweight blanket that will not weigh you down on your hike, but you also want something that will keep you warm.
There are a few different options when it comes to material. The most common are down and synthetic. Down is made from goose or duck feathers and is highly compressible. It is also one of the best materials for trapping heat, making it a good choice for colder climates. The downside to the down is that it does not insulate well when wet and can be more expensive than synthetic options.
Synthetic materials, on the other hand, tend to be less expensive and insulate even when wet. They are also often treated with water repellents, making them a good choice for humid or wet conditions. The downside to synthetic materials is that they are not as compressible as down and can be heavier, making them a less ideal choice for backpacking.
Weight
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a hiking blanket is weight. If you are trekking any significant distance, you will want a blanket that is as light as possible without sacrificing warmth or durability. goose down is an excellent option for ultralight blankets, but synthetic fill can be almost as good and is usually cheaper.
Another important factor to consider is size. Most ultralight blankets are cut quite small to save weight, so if you are a larger person or plan on using your blanket for more than just sleeping, you may want to size up.
Size
One of the most important considerations when choosing a hiking blanket is size. You need to make sure the blanket is big enough to comfortably fit you and all your gear, but not so big that it’s cumbersome to carry. If you’re unsure about what size to get, err on the side of caution and go with a larger blanket. You can always make a smaller blanket work, but it’s much harder to make a larger blanket work if it’s too big.
Color
Choosing a color for your hiking blanket is important for a few reasons. First, you want to be able to find your blanket easily if you drop it or set it down in the middle of a hike. A brighter color will be easier to spot than a darker one. Second, different colors have different heat-reflective properties, so you can use this to your advantage. If you tend to get cold easily, you might want to choose a blanket that’s on the lighter end of the spectrum.
Hiking Blanket Care and Maintenance
A good camping or hiking blanket is an essential piece of gear, but it’s often overlooked. A decent blanket will last for years with proper care. Here are some tips on how to take care of your blanket so you can enjoy it for many hikes to come.
Washing
Washing your hiking blanket is important to do every now and then to keep it clean, fresh smelling, and in good condition. It is best to use a gentle cycle on your washing machine, or hand washes if possible. Do not use fabric softener, as this can coat the fibers of the blanket and make it less effective at wicking away moisture. You can line-dry your blanket, or tumble dry on low heat.
Storage
Once you have found the perfect hiking blanket, you will want to take care of it so that it lasts for many years. Here are some tips on how to store your blanket.
-Your blanket should be stored in a cool, dry place.
-If you are not using your blanket for a long period of time, you may want to store it in a breathable bag or container.
-Avoid storing your blanket in direct sunlight or near a heat source.
-Before using your blanket after storage, make sure to check it for any signs of damage or wear.