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Best Microfiber Towels for Travel 2019

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    What are the best microfiber towels?

    Just scroll down a bit, and you’ll find a table where we compare some of the best travel towels. Most of these are microfiber towels.

    I remember traveling abroad for the first time. My plan was to go on a trip with a small underseat bag. I packed everything I need. My bag was full. And then I remembered that there is one thing missing. I had forgotten my bath towel. Needless to say I didn’t have space for it anymore. And then I didn’t know anything about lightweight towels for travel either. So I started the packing process all over again just to fit in my bulky and fluffy bath towel. Because I knew I’ll need it.

    Now I use a compact microfiber towel.

    It’s highly absorbent, lightweight and dries fast.

    It’s lightweight, highly absorbent and it dries fast.

    And most importantly, it doesn’t take up much space. Sounds too good to be true? But it exists. Actually most of the best travel towels nowadays are like this. You can put them in your carry on backpack. And choice of towels is big. Read on to find out more about the best towels for travel.

    And you’ll probably find one for yourself. If you don’t already.

    Best Microfiber Towels for Travel – Best Travel Towels

    Let’s look at the list of the best travel towels!

    The first ones are microfiber towels. The best microfiber towels. But at the bottom you’ll find a few travel towels made of different materials.To read more about every one of them scroll down. Most of these towels are available in different sizes and colors.

    For more photos, latest price and user reviews check them out on Amazon – just click on the name or image of the towel!

    NAMEIMAGEDIMENSIONSPRICE ON AMAZON
    MICROFIBER TRAVEL TOWELS
    YouphoriaM: 20” x 40” (50.8 x 101.6 cm);

    L: 28” x 56” (71.1 x 142.2 cm);

    XL: 32” x 72” (81.3 x 183 cm)
    Check the price!
    SunlandXS: 12” x 24” (30 x 60 cm);

    S: 16” x 32” (40 x 80 cm);

    M: 20” x 40” (50 x 100 cm);

    L: 24” x 48” (60 x 120 cm);

    XL: 32” x 60” (80 x 150 cm);

    XXL: 40” x 72” (100 x 180 cm)
    Check the price!
    WildHorn Outfitters***S: 12” x 24” (30.5 x 61 cm);

    L: 24” x 48” (61 x 122 cm);

    XL: 30” x 60” (76 x 152 cm)
    Check the price!
    ECOdeptS: 24” x 15” (61 x 38 cm);

    L: 52” x 32” (132 x 81 cm)
    Check the price!
    Micro-miracleS: 14” x 22” (36 x 56 cm);

    L: 30” x 60” (76 x 152 cm)
    Check the price!
    Active RootsOne sizeCheck the price!
    The Friendly SwedeM: 20” x 40” (50 x 100 cm)

    L: 30” x 60” (76 x 152 cm)
    Check the price!
    Sea to Summit DryLiteXS: 12” x 24” (30 x 60 cm);

    S: 16” x 32” (40 x 80 cm);

    M: 20” x 40” (50 x 100 cm);

    L: 24” x 48” (60 x 120 cm);

    XL: 30” x 60” (76 x 152 cm)
    Check the price!
    OTHER MATERIALS
    Cacala***37” x 70” (94 x 178 cm) Check the price!
    Shandali GosweatYoga mat towel: 72” x 26.5” (183 x 67.3 cm);

    Hand towel: 16” x 26.5” (40.6 x 67.3 cm)
    Check the price!
    Secret Sea Collection70″ x 35″ (178 x 89 cm)Check the price!
    *** - our favorites

    Travel Towel Basics: Microfiber Towels

    Travel towels are lightweight towels that are very absorbent, thin, and dry quickly.

    Accordingly they don’t take up much space when folded. They are versatile and perfect for any adventure.

    They are a great choice for backpacking and hiking, when every ounce counts. If you are after ultralight backpacking gear, you’ll be looking at microfiber towels. Apart from that they can be used also as beach towels or blankets.

    Choose the biggest one, if you plan to use it on the beach!

    You can use these kind of towels at home as well.

    They are so lightweight and thin, so they won’t take up much space in your linen closet.

    If it’s very humid in your bathroom, the microfiber travel towel will be the right choice. Because they dry well in humid places, too. Yet another reason why they are so great for travel.

    They are a great choice for backpacking and hiking, when every ounce counts.

    All the lightweight travel towels I have reviewed work a bit differently compared to thick fluffy bath towels. You have to pat rather than rub your body. These towels are super-absorbent and will dry you off surprisingly well.

    One of the best things about microfiber travel towels? They don’t really get smelly. Even if it’s not completely dry put it in its mesh pouch and put it in your luggage. Hang out when possible. The mesh pouch and the towel’s fabric won’t let it get smelly. If you have a carabiner you can attach towel in its pouch to your backpack. Or just hang the towel outside the backpack to let it dry.

    No, I wouldn’t walk like that in a big city, but it’s an option when you are hiking in the woods or mountains.

    As with regular towels you’ll need to wash your microfiber towel eventually.

    The anti-bacterial travel towels stay fresh longer, but still you should wash them regularly.

    The anti-bacterial travel towels stay fresh longer, but still you should wash them regularly.

    Never add fabric softener to microfiber towels!

    It will make them less absorbent. And do not bleach. For more information read the care instructions that come with your towel. You should also wash a travel towel before using it. They might bleed at the beginning.

    Some types of travel towels (like, Turkish cotton) will become softer with each washing and also more absorbent.

    Aside from drying off your body, a microfiber towel can be used also to dry hand-washed clothing.

    Simply roll the clothes inside the towel and wring them out.

    The towel will absorb water coming from the clothes, allowing them to dry faster.

    Bus 3M in Hong Kong

    Lightweight Towel Types

    – Microfiber towels. Thin yet durable lightweight towels that are made of microfiber.

    It’s a synthetic fiber that is made from polyesters, polyamides, or a blend of polyester, polyamide, and polypropylene. Many microfiber towels undergo antibacterial treatment that prevent mold. The microfiber towels have suede finish which makes them soft and supple against your skin.

    They are highly absorbent and dry very fast.

    – Microfiber hot yoga towels. Thin yet durable lightweight towels that are made of anti-slip microfiber material.

    These towels are non-slip, and help to create a solid and slip-free foundation to practice on.

    Just like the regular microfiber towels, the hot yoga towels are highly absorbent and dry very fast.

    – Linen towels. Lightweight and absorbent towels that are made of 100% linen flax.

    These towels are totally hypoallergenic because they are made without the use of any chemicals.

    Linen towels have slightly rough surface.

    – Turkish cotton towels. Soft and lightweight towels that are made of thin cotton.

    These towels dry significantly faster than the regular thick cotton towel. Absorbing moisture very well.

    – Bamboo towels. Lightweight and absorbent towels that are made of organic bamboo and cotton fibers.

    They are chemical-free and naturally antibacterial, thus perfect for sensitive skin.

    The fabric isn’t as rough as linen, and bamboo towels feel as pleasant as Turkish cotton towels.

    A boat from Ao Nang to Railay beach

    How to Choose the Best Travel Towel

    For what purpose do you need a towel?

    Is it a backpacking trip? Or beach? Do you plan to use it mostly at home, and only sometimes take with you on a trip?

    I would recommend you to pay attention to the weight and size of the towel, as well as the material.

    If you want a large lightweight and fast drying towel for a beach then go for the biggest size, like, 40” x 72” (100 x 180 cm). It’s big, yes, but it’s still lightweight, compared to a regular fluffy cotton towel. Choose the material that is sand-free. The sand won’t stick to microfiber towel, also to the Turkish cotton towel.

    For backpacking I, personally, use a smallish microfiber towel that measures approx. 20” x 40” (50 x 100 cm). As these towels are super-absorbent I’m perfectly fine having a small towel.

    For people with sensitive skin I would suggest to use microfiber towels that aren’t antibacterial.

    To make a towel antibacterial, a special chemical is added during the production. This chemical might cause irritation.

    Linen towels and bamboo towels are chemical-free.

    Linen towels and bamboo towels are chemical-free.

    And bamboo towels are even naturally antibacterial.

    If you are sensitive or want a towel that is organic, take one of these. But you should note that linen towels are a little bit rough.

    Are you practicing hot yoga? Then get yourself a yoga mat towel that is made of anti-slip material. It’s great both for yoga and travel.

    Beach towel - Best Microfiber Towels

    Best Microfiber Travel Towels: Travel Towel Reviews

    1. Youphoria Microfiber Towel Review

    The Youphoria microfiber towel is lightweight, super-absorbent, easy-to-carry and quick drying. The microfiber material is made from polyester and nylon blend.

    The towel isn’t antibacterial. To make a towel antibacterial, a special chemical is added during production. Youphoria Outdoors doesn’t use this chemical to ensure that everyone can use these towels, even people with sensitive skin.

    The Youphoria microfiber towel rolls up significantly smaller than any other regular towel. When rolled its size will be equivalent to a size of a toiletry bag. It will take less space in your luggage than a regular towel, which is very important. Especially if you are traveling light. The material is soft and very pleasant to the touch, it’s not catchy.

    The Youphoria towel is one of the best quick dry bath towels available.

    The towel has a hanging loop with a snap button. It comes in a mesh carrying pouch with a drawstring closure.

    The Youphoria multi-purpose towel is ideal for traveling, backpacking, beach and gym. It can be used on a daily basis, too.

    The towel comes with washing instructions. It should be washed in cold water (machine / hand wash). The manufacturer recommends air drying, but you can also tumble dry it on low.

    Available in several colors, and 3 sizes.

    Dimensions and weight:

    Gym size: 20” x 40” (50.8 x 101.6 cm); weight – around 4.5 oz (128 g).

    Bath size: 28” x 56” (71.1 x 142.2 cm); weight – around 8.3 oz (235 g).

    Beach size: 32” x 72” (81.3 x 183 cm); weight – around 12.1 oz (343 g).

    2. Sunland Microfiber Towel

    The Sunland microfiber towel is compact and incredibly light.

    As well as it’s ultra-absorbent and fast-drying. It will be perfect for traveling, gym, pool and beach.

    It’s a synthetic “microfiber” towel, which is made from blend of polyester and polyamide. The material is soft, and has a suede feel to it.

    The Sunland microfiber towel has a snap button hanging loop. You can attach it to your backpack to hang it dry while hiking.

    It comes with a flat zippered mesh pouch which will keep your towel folded neatly and help you to save space.

    The Sunland microfiber towels are available in different colors and sizes. The sets of 2 are available, as well.

    Dimensions and weight:

    – XS: 12” x 24” (30 x 60 cm); weight – 1.7 oz (48 g).

    S: 16” x 32” (40 x 80 cm); weight – 2.4 oz (67 g).

    M: 20” x 40” (50 x 100 cm); weight – 4.5 oz (128 g).

    L: 24” x 48” (60 x 120 cm); weight – 6.2 oz (176 g).

    XL: 32” x 60” (80 x 150 cm); weight – 9.9 oz (281 g).

    XXL: 40” x 72” (100 x 180 cm); weight – 14.8 oz (420 g).

    3. WildHorn Outfitters Microlite Microfiber Towel

    A pack of 3 quick-dry towels.

    There is an extra-large beach towel, a large bath towel, and one small towel.

    This set of lightweight microfiber towels is clearly among the best on the market. It’s affordable and the quality is great.

    These towels are super absorbent. They can hold 3-4x its weight in water. They are made of 100% microfiber material, which is lightweight and fast-drying. The material is soft and plush, and pleasant to the touch.

    Each towel is equipped with snap loops. The set of towels come with one carabiner – for attaching them to a backpack.

    The WildHorn Outfitters towels are easy to pack, and each of them comes in its own mesh pouch.

    Because of the compact size, lightweight material and quick-dry technology, these towels are perfect for travel, outdoor activities, backpacking, pool, beach and gym. The towels don’t take up much space, even the largest one.

    Dimensions and weight:

    S: 12” x 24” (30.5 x 61 cm); 1.5 oz (43 g).

    L: 24” x 48” (61 x 122 cm); 5.6 oz (160 g).

    XL: 30” x 60” (76 x 152 cm); 8.8 oz (250 g).

    4. ECOdept Microfiber Towel

    The ECOdept microfiber towel is antibacterial, quick-dry and lightweight.

    As it is antibacterial, you can use it repeatedly and it won’t smell between washes. The towel is made of plush and soft microfiber fabric which is soft and supple against your skin. It is large, and it comes with a free hand towel. Both towels are packed into a carry pouch and a gift box. Both of them have hanging loops with snaps, so you can easily hang them for quick drying.

    Just like with the other lightweight quick-dry towels. They work a bit differently compared to regular thick towels. You have to pat rather than rub your body.

    There’s one cool feature – a corner zippered pocket on the large towel! It will come in handy on the beach – you can hide your valuables there. This pocket is not really visible which is very good.

    The ECOdept microfiber towels are backed by no-hassle free guarantee. It’s one of the best microfiber travel towels available.

    There are several colors to choose from.

    Dimensions and weight:

    S (free): 24” x 15” (61 x 38 cm); weight – 1.8 oz (50 g).

    L: 52” x 32” (132 x 81 cm); weight – 8.3 oz (236 g).

    5. Micro-miracle Microfiber Towel

    Just like the ECOdept quick dry towel the Micro-miracle towel comes with a free small hand towel. Both of Micro-miracle towels are made of antibacterial microfiber fabric. It’s super absorbent, fast-drying, compact and lightweight, as well as very soft and smooth.

    This advanced microfiber fabric absorbs 7 to 9 times its weight in moisture, and dries in no time!

    Towels come packed into a compact (8” x 8” / 20.3 x 20.3 cm) mesh and nylon carry bag, and each has a hanging loop.

    The carry bag has a carabiner.

    The Micro-miracle towels are versatile. They can be taken on a backpacking trip, to a gym, on a beach, on a kayaking trip, etc.

    Available in several colors.

    Dimensions and weight:

    S (free): 14” x 22” (36 x 56 cm); weight – 1.5 oz (43 g).

    L: 30” x 60” (76 x 152 cm); weight – 8.2 oz (233 g).

    6. Active Roots Microfiber Travel Towel

    A versatile microfiber towel, which can be used as a travel towel, beach towel and picnic blanket.

    It’s very absorbent, extremely lightweight and quick drying. And it comes with a mesh carry bag. Towel is available in 3 colors right now. But only in size. The latter, though, will make things easier for those who just need one, normal-sized travel towel and don’t want to think about what size is the best.

    In case you haven’t heard about it yet Active Roots is a new travel gear company founded by passionate travelers and adventurers Will Hatton and Dj Schoonover. Will has been traveling the world for more than 10 years already. And now he uses his expertise to help others get the best out of traveling.

    What else – for each purchase these guys donate a percentage to the The Elephant Sanctuary in Laos.

    Sitting on the beach reading a book

    7. The Friendly Swede Travel Towel

    These Friendly Swede microfiber towels are super absorbent, quick drying, small, and lightweight. And… affordable!

    The towels are made of 80/20 polyester-polyamide microfiber blend that is durable yet soft.

    They are sold in packs of 2. Each towel comes in a mesh pouch with a drawstring. The mesh pouches let the towels breathe, therefore, they are not getting smelly. The towels take very little space in a suitcase or a backpack, which is very important when your travel often!

    The Friendly Swede microfiber towels are machine washable.

    It’s advised to wash them separately the first 3-4 times as color may bleed.

    Note, that these towels are not antibacterial.

    The Friendly Swede towels are multi-purpose. You can use them as yoga mat towels, as well. Of course, they will move around the mat a little bit, but that’s expected.

    Dimensions:

    Gym towel: 20” x 40” (50 x 100 cm).

    Bath / beach towel: 30” x 60” (76 x 152 cm).

    8. Sea to Summit DryLite Towel Review

    The Sea to Summit DryLite lightweight microfiber towel is among the best microfiber towels for travel. It’s remarkably absorbent and fast drying.

    The towel is made of microfiber fabric, with super soft suede finish. It’s very soft and pleasant to the touch yet durable and will hold up well.

    It’s available in 5 sizes from hand towel size up to a beach towel size.

    These towels are ideal for travel, camping, sports, pool, beach, kayaking, etc. It’s machine washable.

    Just like the other microfiber travel towels the Sea to Summit DryLite towel folds into a compact package. The towel comes with a mesh-faced storage pouch, and has a press-stud tab for convenient hanging.

    Available in several colors.

    Dimensions and weight:

    XS: 12” x 24” (30 x 60 cm), 1.3 oz (37 g).

    S: 16” x 32” (40 x 80 cm), 2.2 oz (62.4 g).

    M: 20” x 40” (50 x 100 cm), 3.6 oz (102 g).

    L: 24” x 48” (60 x 120 cm), 5.1 oz (144.6 g).

    XL: 30” x 60” (76 x 152 cm), 8.1 oz (230 g).

    Resort pool in the jungle

    Lightest Travel Towel

    Most of travel towels nowadays are lightweight.

    However, these 3 are among the lightest travel towels you can find.

    9. Cacala Pestemal Turkish Bath Towel Review

    Made in Turkey, using high quality cotton, the Cacala cotton towels are one of the best quick dry bath towels.

    These towels are not microfiber, but still they are thin, lightweight and absorbent.

    These towels dry significantly faster than the regular thick fuzzy towel.

    Not only can they be used as bath towels, but also can be packed in a backpack or a suitcase, or used as a beach towel. They are lightweight and thin. So they won’t take up much space in your luggage or your linen closet. They fold up to a fairly small size.

    When you’ll take the Cacala cotton towel to the beach, you might be surprised at first to see that the sand doesn’t stick to it. It’s a very cool feature.

    The manufacturer suggests washing the towel before use.

    It will become softer with each washing and also more absorbent.

    The Cacala Turkish towels come in many beautiful colors. Other sizes are available, too. Check it out on Amazon!

    Dimensions and weight:

    37” x 70” (94 x 178 cm); weight – approx. 10 oz (284 g).


    Check out also Cacala hand towel on Amazon!

    10. Shandali Gosweat Hot Yoga Towel Review

    A durable, non-slip yoga towel, which can also be used for travel.

    Using a yoga towel helps to create a solid and slip-free foundation to practice on. Also the yoga towel will come in handy if you don’t have your own yoga mat and practice on studio mats. Your fresh and clean yoga towel will protect you from germs that might be living on a studio mat.

    The Shandali Gosweat yoga towel is made of high grade anti-slip microfiber material. It’s very durable, yet plush and soft. The manufacturer uses eco-ink dye to dye their towels.

    Even though the description says the towel is non-slip, it still may shift a little, especially at first when it’s dry. I would spray down the towel before using. A damp towel will grip to the mat better.

    It can be used for “regular” (not hot) yoga, too. Just spray it with water before use.

    The towel absorbs sweat well, and dries out fast.

    The Shandali Gosweat towels are thin and lightweight and don’t take up much space.

    When folded its dimensions are about 9” x 4” (23 x 10.2 cm).

    The towels are washing machine friendly.

    The Shandali Gosweat towels come in many beautiful colors. Hand size towel is available, too.

    Dimensions and weight:

    Yoga mat towel: 72” x 26.5” (183 x 67.3 cm); weight – around 14.1 oz (400 g).

    Hand towel: 16” x 26.5” (40.6 x 67.3 cm); weight – around 3 oz (85 g).

    28” x 58” (71 x 147 cm); weight – 7.2 oz (204 g).

    11. Secret Sea Collection Bamboo Towel Review

    Another great option if you are looking for an organic lightweight towel for travel.

    This one is made of organic bamboo and cotton fibers, and is chemical-free.

    The organic bamboo fiber material is naturally antibacterial. And it’s 30% less susceptible to odors than cotton. The material is durable and the towel will last long.

    The Secret Sea Collection bamboo towel lightweight and highly absorbent.

    It’s 60% more absorbent than a regular thick cotton towel. The towel dries very quickly.

    Dimensions and weight:

    70″ x 35″ (178 x 89 cm); weight – 10.6 oz (300.5 g).

    This post originally appeared on Una’s blog We Are From Latvia.

    Text: Una Baufala.

    What towel do you use when traveling? Do you have a travel towel?

    1. Book Your Flight. Find cheap flights using Kiwi.com, Momondo.com. Or subscribe to Dollar Flight Club, if you don’t want to be searching for the flights yourself. Kiwi currently is my first choice.

    2. Book Your Accommodation. Booking.com, Agoda.com and Airbnb. I use Booking and Agoda at least a dozen times a year, and Airbnb – when looking for a long-term stay. My best tip is to ALWAYS compare the price. Sometimes the same hotel is cheaper on Booking.com, other times – on Agoda. Always compare the price!

    3. Buy Your Travel Insurance. Ekta and SafetyWings are two companies I can recommend. Ekta offers some extra benefits, that will be important for those doing some higher risk activities (make sure to choose the right plan!), while SafetyWings is better for digital nomads. SafetyWings is also very affordable.



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