Quick Answer

Choose the Pocket Blanket when you need a clean, dry place to sit for a group, and the Trek Towel when you need a compact, quick-drying cloth for hands, face, or gear. Both are packable, but they serve different jobs.

Why the trade-off matters

The Pocket Blanket and Trek Towel look similar at first glance because both fold down small. But they solve different problems. The blanket gives you a water-resistant surface for sitting, while the towel absorbs moisture. Knowing which one to pack depends on your activity, group size, and whether you expect to sit or get wet.

Neither item replaces the other. If you plan a picnic, the blanket is the obvious pick. If you're hiking and need to dry off after a stream crossing, the towel wins. For trips where you might do both, consider carrying both—they pack so small that the extra weight is minimal.

Trade-offs at a Glance

  • Packability: Both fold down small, but the Trek Towel's silicone case is more compact for a pocket or hip belt. The Pocket Blanket slips into a daypack or large pocket. Choose the towel if you need to save every inch of space.
  • Primary use: The Pocket Blanket is for sitting; the Trek Towel is for drying. Don't expect the towel to keep you dry on wet grass, and don't expect the blanket to absorb water. Match the item to your main activity.
  • Group size: The Pocket Blanket seats 2–4 people, making it a group option. The Trek Towel is sized for one person's hands or face. For a picnic with friends, the blanket is the practical choice.
  • Weather conditions: The Pocket Blanket's water-resistant surface and integrated stakes handle damp ground and wind. The Trek Towel has no wind resistance and won't stay put on its own. In breezy or wet conditions, the blanket is more reliable.

Product Facts

  • NanoDry™ Trek Towel – Small: The NanoDry Trek Towel absorbs twice its weight and packs into a premium silicone case. It's a true quick-dry towel for hands, face, or gear, not a sitting surface.

    NanoDry™ Trek Towel – Small

    NanoDry™ Trek Towel – Small

  • Pocket Blanket™: The Pocket Blanket seats 2–4 people, has a water-resistant surface, and includes integrated stakes for breezy conditions. It gives you a clean, dry spot to sit even on damp ground, and the stakes keep it in place outdoors.

    Pocket Blanket™

    Pocket Blanket™

Which One Fits You?

Best for

  • Day hikers who want a compact towel for quick drying after water crossings or for wiping hands and face.
  • Picnickers or concert-goers who need a clean, dry place to sit for 2–4 people.

Not for

  • The Pocket Blanket is not for drying gear or absorbing moisture.
  • The Trek Towel is not for group seating or providing a dry surface on the ground.