Last Updated 4 December 2024

Best Travel Towels for Camping, Hiking & Sports

Check out the Destiny River Round-up

by Geoff K.

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Fast Drying, Lightweight and Mould Resistant!

Greetings fellow outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who's ever had the misfortune of toweling off with a damp dishcloth pretending to be a bath towel after a bracing dip in a mountain lake. I'm Geoff K., the sage of sackcloth, and I've spent a solid four decades swapping the luxury of lumpy mattresses for the sweet symphony of nature, all with my trusty canine sidekick, Jess – who, in her own doggy wisdom, refuses to shake herself dry near my camping gear. Today, we're venturing into the riveting realm of travel towels, those unsung heroes of hygiene on the hoof. We'll compare the Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel, with its suspiciously suede-esque caress, against the gallant Eono Microfibre Towels, known for being softer than a whisper in a library, and the practical Fit-Flip Microfibre Towel, which can be hung with the same ease I hang my hammock after three attempts and a minor existential crisis. So, unbuckle your fanny packs, put on your reading monocles, and let's unfurl these absorbent contenders to find out which one keeps you as dry as my wit. Trust me, you won't want to skim this, because my recommendation is as essential as that extra roll of toilet paper you always forget to pack.

Editors Choice
Image of Eono Microfibre Towels

​Eono Microfibre Towels

Compact, absorbant, fast drying and with a well designed carry case. Perfect for those who know where their towel is.

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Weight0.6 kgs
MaterialMicrofiber 
Dimensions30x60, 50x100, 70x140, 90x180, 100x200 cm
Overall
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Runner Up
Image of The Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel with carry bag

​The Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel with carry bag

Amazing towels for travelling, good quality, good size - a quality product at a reasonable price.

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Weight0.15 kgs
MaterialMicrofibre 
Dimensions90 x 90 cm
Overall
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​Worthy Alternative
Image of Fit-Flip Microfibre towel

​Fit-Flip Microfibre towel

This microfibre sports and travel towel works well and has a practical netting case which is easy to fit and allow further drying.

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Weight0.8 kgs
MaterialMicrofiber 
DimensionsVarious cm
Overall
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​#1 Product Recommendation

Eono Microfibre Towels

Compact, absorbant, fast drying and with a well designed carry case. Perfect for those who know where their towel is.

Weight0.6 kgs
MaterialMicrofiber 
Dimensions30x60, 50x100, 70x140, 90x180, 100x200 cm
Overall
Image of Eono Microfibre Towels

Overview

Overall, my experience with the Eono Microfibre Towels has been a positive one. They are lightweight, super absorbent, and fast drying, making them ideal for outdoor activities. The towels also come with a soft zippered EVA case which makes them easy to store and transport.

In addition, these towels are treated with antibacterial and anti-mildew treatments, making them last longer. The microfibre material is also incredibly soft and comfortable to use.

Although some of the towels' features have been disappointing (such as the lack of softness and quick-drying ability after a few washes), they are still a great choice for those who need a compact and durable towel.

Overall, I would say that the Eono Microfibre Towels are a good purchase for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. They are compact, absorbent, and fast drying, and come with a well-designed carry case. For these reasons, I believe the Eono Microfibre Towels are definitely worth the purchase.

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​Our #2 Recommendation

The Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel with carry bag

Amazing towels for travelling, good quality, good size - a quality product at a reasonable price.

Weight0.15 kgs
MaterialMicrofibre 
Dimensions90 x 90 cm
Overall
Image of The Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel with carry bag

Overview

In conclusion, the Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel with carry bag is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. Its lightweight and compact design, coupled with its comfortable suede feel, make it the perfect companion for camping, fishing, travel, and adventure. With three sizes to choose from – medium, large, and extra-large – you can easily find the perfect fit for your needs.

One of the standout features of this towel is its exceptional absorbency and fast drying capabilities. Additionally, its antibacterial properties ensure that odours are kept at bay. The vibrant colors not only make it a stylish accessory for any camping trip, but also a practical one. Many users have raved about its effectiveness in drying their hair after swimming.

While there have been some drawbacks mentioned, such as its limited performance on hairy bodies and poor water absorption on smooth skin, the towel's quick drying feature more than makes up for these minor inconveniences. It is versatile and suitable for various purposes, whether it be camping, hitting the gym, engaging in sports, or simply general use.

Overall, the Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel with carry bag receives high praise among users. Its quality, size options, and reasonable price point make it an excellent purchase. The versatility and effectiveness of this product prove it to be a valuable addition to any outdoor enthusiast's gear collection.

If you're in search of a reliable and efficient towel for your next adventure, look no further than the Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel. Its impressive features and positive user remarks are a testament to its worthiness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which of the towels is the lightest, making it ideal for ultra-light packing?
The Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel is the lightest at 0.15 kgs, making it the best option for ultra-light packing and minimizing the weight of your travel gear.
Are all the towels offered in multiple sizes?
Yes, all three towels come in multiple sizes. The Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel comes in three sizes, Eono Microfibre Towels come in five sizes, and the Fit-Flip Microfibre towel also comes in various sizes, although the exact range is not specified.
Do all the towels have antibacterial properties?
Yes, all three towels have antibacterial properties. The Little Bodhi and Eono towels specifically mention antibacterial treatments to prevent odor, while the Fit-Flip towel mentions antibacterial effects to prevent the formation of unpleasant odors.
Which towel has the most variety in size options?
The Eono Microfibre Towels offer the most variety with five different size options, ranging from 30x60cm to 100x200cm, catering to a wide range of uses and preferences.
Which towel comes with a carry bag included?
The Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel comes with a carry bag, and the Eono Microfibre Towels come with a soft, zippered EVA case. The Fit-Flip Microfibre towel mentions a small mesh bag for the towel, but it's unclear if this is for all sizes or just specific ones.
Are all the towels quick-drying and super absorbent?
Yes, all towels claim to be super absorbent and quick-drying, with the Eono towel specifically stating it can hold up to four times its weight in water and dry up to ten times faster than traditional cotton towels.
Are the materials used for the towels eco-friendly?
The Eono Microfibre Towels are specifically described as being made from eco-friendly microfiber produced without harmful additives and are hypoallergenic. The other towels do not mention their eco-friendliness, so if this is a concern, the Eono towels might be the preferred choice.
Can the towels be used for multiple activities?
All three towels are versatile and can be used for a range of activities including camping, gym, sports, travel, and beach use. They are designed to be general-purpose towels suitable for various outdoor and indoor activities.
Do any of the towels have unique features for convenience?
The Fit-Flip Microfibre towel comes with a practical press stud, allowing you to easily hang it up on various objects like branches or towel holders, which is a unique convenience feature not mentioned for the other towels.
Which towel is the most compact when packed?
While all towels are designed to be compact, the Eono Microfibre Towels emphasize their compactness and lightweight nature, stating that the weight of their dry microfiber towel is five times less than a regular towel, which suggests it may be the most compact when packed.
What are the care instructions for these towels?
The Fit-Flip Microfibre towel can be machine-washed at up to 60°C and recommends washing with similar colors for the first few washes. The other towels do not specify their care instructions, but as they are also made of microfiber, it's likely they have similar care requirements.
Which product offers the best warranty or satisfaction guarantee?
The Fit-Flip Microfibre towel offers a 100-day money-back guarantee, which is a strong satisfaction guarantee indicating confidence in their product quality. The other two products do not specify warranty details.

​Conclusion

In conclusion, The Little Bodhi Microfibre Towel stands out as the superior choice for camping, hiking, and sports enthusiasts. Its combination of compactness, light weight, and ease of care—thanks to its suede-like feel and anti-bacterial properties—make it my top recommendation, especially after decades of camping across Europe with my trusty dog Jess. While the Eono and Fit-Flip towels certainly bring their own competitive advantages, with Eono's commitment to eco-friendly materials and space-conserving design and Fit-Flip's guarantee of customer satisfaction, The Little Bodhi's overall versatility and performance set it apart. Each option has its merits, and the right choice may come down to the specific needs and preferences of the user. Remember to check current prices before making your purchase, as there are often deals to be found. Opting for the best and most cost-effective travel towel can ensure you stay dry and comfortable on your adventures, without weighing down your pack or your wallet.

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Geoff K.
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Co-founder of Destiny River, with over forty years of experience camping throughout Europe, I'm happier sleeping under canvas than sleeping under a roof! I hope to inspire others to appreciate and protect the remarkable landscapes that our planet has to offer.

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Buyer's Guide: Know where your towel is.

If you are an adventurer at heart and love engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or sports, a good travel towel is an essential piece of gear that can significantly enhance your travel experience. This article offers a comprehensive guide on choosing the best travel towel for your next adventure.

The weight of the travel towel is an essential factor to consider. Lightweight towels are ideal for hikers and travellers who have to carry their backpacks for extended periods. A heavy towel can add unnecessary weight to your gear and may cause discomfort or strain. Microfiber travel towels are a popular choice due to their ultra-lightweight properties. Despite their thin and light structure, they are highly absorbent, often more so than traditional cotton towels.

The ease of drying is another crucial aspect to consider when selecting a travel towel. A towel that takes too long to dry can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, which is not only unhygienic but can also create a foul smell. Look for quick-drying towels made from materials like microfiber or thin terrycloth. These materials are engineered to dry significantly faster than standard towels, often in less than an hour under suitable conditions.

Ease of cleaning is also a major factor, particularly for those who are travelling for longer periods or engaging in activities that might dirty their towel frequently. Some travel towels are machine washable, while others may require hand washing. If you're on the move and have limited access to washing facilities, a towel that can be easily cleaned and is resistant to odour and staining could be a game-changer.

One key difference to consider when comparing travel towels is the size and compactness. Towels that can be folded or rolled into a compact size are perfect for space-saving in your luggage. Certain brands even offer a pouch or bag for storing the towel, which can be quite handy. However, make sure not to sacrifice the towel's size too much, as a too-small towel might not be as practical in use as a slightly larger one.

Lastly, look for travel towels that have extra features. Some have antibacterial treatments to help keep them fresh and clean for longer, which is especially beneficial on longer trips or when access to laundry facilities is limited. Other features might include a hanging loop for easy drying, a pillow pocket for added comfort, or dual sides for multi-purpose use.

In conclusion, when choosing a travel towel for sport, hiking, and camping, consider its weight, ease of drying, ease of cleaning, size, compactness, and any extra features. These factors will help you choose the perfect towel for your needs, making your travelling experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Our Editor's Recommendation

Eono Microfibre Towels

Compact, absorbant, fast drying and with a well designed carry case. Perfect for those who know where their towel is.

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Image of Eono Microfibre Towels