You're packing for a weekend camping trip, a Sunday picnic, or a beach day with friends. You grab a blanket. And then you realize: not all blankets are made for this.
The right outdoor blanket handles damp grass, sandy beaches, cool evenings around a fire, and a trip through the washing machine, without falling apart or losing its shape. The wrong one ends up balled in the back of your car, stained and forgotten.
Here's how to choose the best outdoor blanket for whatever you've got planned.
What Makes a Blanket Actually "Outdoor"?
The term gets used loosely, but a true outdoor blanket should check at least a few of these boxes:
- Water-resistant — repels light moisture from damp grass or sea spray
- Fade-resistant — holds its color in direct sun
- Durable — stands up to sand, dirt, and frequent washing
- Machine washable — because it will get dirty
- Packable — fits in a bag without taking over
Most indoor throws fail at two or three of these. A dedicated outdoor blanket is built differently from the ground up.
Outdoor Blanket Materials: What to Know
Recycled Polyester
The most common material for outdoor blankets, and for good reason. Recycled polyester is lightweight, water-resistant, and quick-drying. It's also the most sustainable option in the outdoor category: In2Green's outdoor throws are made from 100% recycled polyester, with each blanket upcycling 78+ plastic bottles. Durable enough for repeated outdoor use, soft enough for couch nights in between.
Fleece
Warm and soft, but fleece picks up lint, pet hair, and pilling with heavy use. Good for campfire hangs where you're sitting still; less ideal for anything involving sand or grass.
Wool
Naturally water-resistant and warm even when wet, a genuine outdoor performer. The trade-off: heavier, more expensive, and requires more careful washing.
Cotton
Soft and breathable, but absorbs moisture rather than repelling it. Better for dry conditions, a sunny park day, a festival, a shaded patio.
Choosing by Use Case
Camping Blankets
Prioritize warmth, durability, and easy washing. You want something that can handle a cold night at elevation, a damp morning, and still look good around the fire. Recycled polyester outdoor throws work well, they're tough, packable, and dry fast if they get wet.
Shop camping blankets →
Picnic Blankets
The key here is ground contact, you need something that doesn't soak up moisture from the grass. Water-resistant or water-repellent backing is a must. Size matters too: a 50" x 60" throw is comfortable for two; go larger for groups.
Shop picnic blankets →
Beach Blankets
Sand is the enemy. Look for tightly woven fabrics that shake clean easily, and avoid anything with loops or textures that trap grit. Fade resistance matters here too — beach blankets live in direct sun.
Shop beach and coastal blankets →
Patio & Backyard
Style matters more here than pure performance, you'll want something that looks good draped over an outdoor chair or sofa. Choose a color or pattern that complements your outdoor space, and prioritize fade resistance for pieces that live outside regularly.
Size Guide for Outdoor Blankets
| Use | Recommended Size |
|---|---|
| Solo camping / lap blanket | 50" x 60" |
| Couples picnic | 50" x 60" – 60" x 70" |
| Group picnic / beach | 60" x 80"+ or multiple throws |
| Patio chair drape | 50" x 60" |
| Outdoor sofa | 60" x 70" |
In2Green outdoor throws measure 50" x 60" — the sweet spot for solo and couples use, and easy to layer for larger groups.
Why Eco-Friendly Matters for Outdoor Blankets
There's something fitting about caring for the environment with gear you use in it. In2Green's outdoor throw blankets are made from 100% recycled polyester, each one gives 78+ plastic bottles a second life as something soft, durable, and beautiful. They're made in small batches, designed to last for years, and built to wash and rewash without wearing out.
That's the opposite of fast fashion outdoor gear, and better for every trail, beach, and backyard they end up on.
Shop In2Green Outdoor Blankets
Popular for:
- Camping and backyard bonfires
- Picnics and park days
- Beach and poolside lounging
- Tailgates and outdoor concerts
- Festival season
- Patio and deck entertaining
Browse the full outdoor blanket collection , water-resistant, fade-resistant, made from recycled materials, and free shipping on qualifying orders.
