Guides and Tips

Best Travel Beach Towels for Camping

January 17, 2025
Tips and Tricks

When it comes to camping, a good quality, lightweight beach towel can make all the difference. Whether you’re drying off after a swim, lounging under the sun, or wiping down gear, choosing the right towel is a camping essential. This is especially true if you are on a Big Lap budget where space and durability matter. Not all towels are created equal, and camping-specific options are designed to save space, dry quickly, and be durable to stand up to the rugged outdoors. Let’s explore what makes the best beach towels for camping and which is our favourite quick dry travel towel that will suit your needs.

Table of Contents

Why Choosing the Right Beach Towel Matters for Camping

Camping often means limited packing space and unpredictable weather. Any towel that dries quickly, packs compactly, and can handle the elements is invaluable. The right beach towel can make your camping experience more comfortable and convenient, saving you time and effort during your trip—whether you are Daintree camping or enjoying Yorke Peninsula camping.

The Difference Between Regular and Camping-Specific Beach Towels

Unlike regular towels, camping beach towels are designed with features like quick-dry materials, lightweight construction, and sand-resistant fabrics. They’re tailored for the demands of outdoor adventures, making them a must-have for campers. If you’ve been looking for beach driving tips for beginners, you’ll know that keeping sand out of your vehicle is a top priority! Regular beach towels are typically made from cotton and are much more thick and plush. This is great for absorbency, however the trade-off is the sand sticks to them and they take hours longer to dry.

Key Features to Look for in Camping Beach Towels

Quick-Dry Materials for On-the-Go Convenience

There is NOTHING worse than a soggy wet towel. Camping towels made from materials like microfiber wick moisture away quickly and recycled bottles, ensuring you’re never stuck with damp gear.

Compact and Lightweight Designs for Easy Packing

Space is at a premium when camping, and bulky towels are a hassle. Opt for towels that fold down small and won’t weigh down your backpack or clutter your Caravan Parks Australia setup.

Durability and Sand-Resistance for Outdoor Use

Camping towels take a beating, so they need to be tough. Look for options that resist wear and tear, as well as sand-resistant fabrics that keep the grit where it belongs—on the beach, not in your tent.

Top Materials for Camping Beach Towels

Microfiber: Lightweight and Quick-Drying

A favourite among campers. They’re super lightweight, fast-drying, and easy to pack. These are ideal for those who prioritise performance and practicality, even on a rugged Tasmania road trip.

Cotton: Soft and Absorbent, But Bulkier

Cotton towels are soft and luxurious, making them a great choice for those who value comfort. However, they’re bulkier and take longer to dry, so they might not suit every camping scenario.

Hybrid Options for the Best of Both Worlds

Hybrid towels combine the softness of cotton with the quick-drying properties of microfiber. These are great if you want comfort without compromising on functionality.

Sustainable Option: Made From Recycled Products

The technology in creating quality goods from recycled products continues to amaze us and towels are just another example of this. Eco-friendly travel towels are taking camping products to a whole new level and are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and beachgoers alike. Made from recycled materials, including repurposed plastic bottles, these towels are not only stylish and functional but also contribute to reducing waste and protecting the environment. Lightweight, quick-drying, and designed to repel sand, these towels are ideal for camping and beach adventures.

Best Beach Towels for Camping: Our Top Picks

Will and Wind Sand-Free Towels

Made using recycled post consumer plastic

Will and Wind’s sand-free towels are a game-changer for beach camping. Made from recycled bottles to create durable, quick-drying fabric, these towels are lightweight, stylish, and, best of all, repel sand effortlessly. They are a great addition to your gear, right alongside essentials like Starlink for Caravans Australia.

What we love: Apart from being durable and sustainable, these towels are designed with a variety of images taken by photographers of iconic locations and animals around Australia. They’re stylish enough for glamping Australia but tough enough for the Gibb River Road.

Meander Wild Kids Hooded Towels

Perfect for families, these hooded towels are designed for kids but are durable enough for all camping adventures. Made from 100% cotton, they have an absorbent terry towel interior making them warm and snuggly for the kids on cooler days. They are perfect for rinsing off after a day on the Old Telegraph Track or at showground camping sites.

What we love: They come in fun designs that kids will love (and you!) of caravans and palm trees.

How to Choose the Best Tevel Beach Towel for Your Needs

Matching Towel Size to Your Activities

Think about how you’ll use your fast dry towels for travel. For lounging on the beach, larger sizes are better, but for backpacking, compact options are more practical.

Budget-Friendly Options Versus Premium Choices

Camping beach towels come in a range of prices. Budget options are great for casual campers, while premium towels offer enhanced features like sand-resistance and eco-friendly materials.

Sustainability Considerations: Eco-Friendly Towels

If sustainability is important to you, look for towels made from recycled materials or organic cotton. Many brands now offer eco-friendly options such as Will and Wind that don’t compromise on quality.

Caring for Your Camping Beach Towels

Cleaning and Storing Tips to Extend Lifespan

After your trip, rinse your towel to remove salt, sand, and dirt. Use mild detergents and let it air dry before storing to prevent odours and wear.

Avoiding Common Mistakes Like Using Harsh Detergent

Harsh chemicals can damage your towel’s fibres, reducing its lifespan. Stick to gentle cleaning products and avoid fabric softeners to keep your towel in top condition and avoid reduced absorbency and discolouration.

Where to Buy the Best Beach Towels for Camping

Online Stores and Trusted Brands in Australia

Websites like Meander Wild, Will and Wind, Snowys and Anaconda offer a wide range of camping towels, including trusted Aussie brands. If you prefer to shop in person, check out your local camping or outdoor gear stores. You can also look for them while browsing for pet friendly cabins or checking caravan insurance options at trade shows.

Local Camping and Outdoor Gear Retailers

If you prefer to shop in person, check out your local camping or outdoor gear stores. Caravan and Camping shows also attract many high quality retailers. Check out our Australian Caravan and Camping Shows Calendar to find the next show happening near you.

Recap

Invest in a camping-specific beach towel to make your next trip easier, cleaner, and more enjoyable. Check out our recommended picks and trusted retailers to find the perfect option for your next camping getaway.