When the temperature drops, camping takes on a new kind of magic - misty mornings, fireside stories, and crisp air that makes hot cocoa taste even better. But while winter camping can be deeply rewarding, it also brings one essential need to the top of every packing list: warmth.
Whether you're setting up in the bush, beside a river, or in your own backyard for a weekend “camp out,” having the right blanket for camping can mean the difference between a chilly struggle and a cosy, unforgettable night under the stars.
🔥 Why You Need a Camping Blanket (Even If You Already Have a Sleeping Bag)
Sleeping bags are great - but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. A campfire blanket or camping rug adds warmth, versatility, and comfort that a sleeping bag alone often can’t provide.
Here’s why a camping blanket matters:
- Extra insulation: Use it as a topper or base layer for warmth and comfort.
- All-day usefulness: Perfect for mornings, mealtimes, or stargazing after dark.
- Cosy layering: Ideal for wrapping up during chats, cuddles, or marshmallow roasting.
🪵 Did You Know? Layering a woven rug over your sleeping bag can increase your warmth rating by up to 5°C, depending on material density and air flow!
🧣 What Makes a Great Campfire Blanket?
Before you buy, consider these features:
1. Material & Feel
Look for breathable natural fibres like cotton, wool, or blends. Recycled cotton rugs provide a great balance between softness and durability. They're eco-conscious and get softer with every wash.
🌿 Did You Know? Recycled cotton camping blankets reduce landfill waste by repurposing pre-consumer fabric scraps - sustainability that feels good.
2. Size & Weight
Choose a size large enough to wrap around yourself (or two people) comfortably. A lightweight blanket is easier to carry, but one with a bit of density traps more heat - especially important in winter.
3. Washability
A good warm camping blanket should be machine washable. Camping gets messy, and you want something you can clean with ease.
4. Outdoor Durability
The weave and edge finish should hold up to being used on rough ground or damp grass. Tight weaves are better at keeping out wind and grit.
🏕️ 7 Clever Ways to Use Your Camping Rug Outdoors
Camping blankets are versatile. Here’s how to get the most from yours:
- As a ground mat: Line your tent or set up outside for breakfast by the fire.
- As a sleeping layer: Add warmth beneath your sleeping bag or use it as an extra cover.
- As a morning wrap: Snuggle in while watching the sunrise with a hot drink.
- As a family picnic rug: Share meals on it or use it as a soft table cover.
- As a cosy kids’ zone: Create a soft reading nook or play space for little campers.
- As a makeshift curtain: Block drafty areas in the tent or around a camper door.
- As a storytime stage: Lay it under a tree or near the fire for bedtime tales.
✨ Did You Know? Cotton fibres naturally regulate temperature, helping to keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. This makes them perfect for multi-season use outdoors.
🧳 Packing & Storage Tips for Your Blanket or Rug
- Roll it tight: Secure with a picnic rug strap or carrier.
- Keep it dry: Store inside the tent or hang it on a branch when not in use.
- Shake off debris daily: This helps reduce wear and prevents damp buildup.
- Air it out at home: Let it breathe before storing it between trips.
💡 Extra Winter Camping Tips
- Choose campsites with morning sun exposure for natural warmth.
- Always bring a backup dry blanket stored in a sealed bag.
- Don’t forget socks and beanies - blankets help, but extremities lose heat first.
- Create a warm foot zone: tuck your blanket inside your sleeping bag for added insulation at the base.
🔥 Did You Know? Most heat loss while sleeping outdoors happens through the ground. A thick rug underneath you is just as important as one on top!
🌌 Camping is About Creating Memories, Not Just Staying Warm
At the heart of every trip is the chance to slow down and reconnect - whether you’re watching your kids chase shadows with torches or sipping wine as the fire crackles nearby.
A beautiful camping rug becomes more than a piece of gear. It becomes:
- The stage for shared stories.
- The warmth for morning cuddles.
- The photo backdrop for golden-hour memories.
- A comfort that reminds kids of home, even when you're deep in the bush.
📸 Did You Know? Taking a photo of your rug in each new location creates a visual memory trail - a great tradition for families who camp often.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions: Camping Blankets & Rugs
What is the best type of blanket for camping in winter?
Look for dense woven blankets made of recycled cotton or wool blends. These materials trap heat well and offer breathability. Avoid thin fleece or overly synthetic fabrics - they may insulate, but don’t offer the comfort or durability of natural fibres.
Can I use a picnic rug as a camping blanket?
Absolutely! A tightly woven picnic blanket rug is perfect for camping - especially if it’s large, machine washable, and made for outdoor conditions. Just ensure it’s warm enough for night use and not too lightweight if you’re heading into cold areas.
How do I clean my camping rug after a trip?
Most camping rugs and blankets made from cotton can be shaken clean and machine washed on a gentle cycle. Air dry in full sun for best results. Avoid dryers or fabric softeners to preserve the fibres.
Are camping blankets waterproof?
Most woven blankets are not waterproof - but they can handle light dew or mist if aired and dried properly. If you're concerned about moisture, place a tarp underneath or pair your blanket with a water-resistant base layer.
What’s the difference between a camping rug and a picnic rug?
Often, there is no major difference - it's more about function than definition. A camping rug generally emphasizes warmth and durability, while a picnic rug may focus on size and style. The best options (like Bilby Threads’ rugs) do both beautifully.
🛒 Ready to Cosy Up Your Next Camping Trip?
Explore our collection of outdoor camping rugs, campfire blankets, and picnic accessories designed to go where your family adventures take you. Crafted for real life, and made to wrap around memories.
👉 Shop now
