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10 Best Travel Towels 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel Perfect Travel & Gym & Camping Towel. Quick Dry - Super Absorbent - Ultra Compact - Lightweight. Suitable for Trip, Beach, Shower, Backpacking, Pool

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,402
Size
Drying Time
Absorbency

Most important from
28627 reviews

Size
The compact size is extremely handy for travel, especially when luggage space is limited.
Drying Time
The towel is perfect for saving space in a gym bag and dries quickly, making it ideal for active routines.
Absorbency
Despite being thin, the towel absorbs water impressively well and dries within a few hours.
Packability
The towel is perfect for saving space in a gym bag and dries quickly, making it ideal for active routines.

The Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is a great choice for travelers, campers, gym users, or beachgoers who want a towel that is easy to carry and quick to dry. Made from microfiber, it is super absorbent—holding up to five times its own weight in water—which means it can dry you off quickly and efficiently. It also dries fast thanks to a handy snap loop that allows you to hang it up easily. This towel is very lightweight and compact, making it ideal for packing into limited luggage space without adding bulk.

The 24 x 12 inch size mentioned is on the smaller side, which is convenient for portability but might feel a bit small if you need a full body towel. One nice feature is a zippered pocket on the corner, useful for storing small items like keys or money when at the beach or pool. The fabric feels soft and gentle against the skin, almost like suede, so it’s comfortable to use. Additionally, the towel is sand-resistant, breathable, and can be machine washed, which helps keep it fresh and hygienic for repeated travel use.

Since the microfiber material typically resists odor better than cotton towels, this towel fits well for anyone valuing quick drying, portability, and softness in a travel towel, especially when you want something that packs down small and light. If a larger size is preferred, there are several size and color options available from Rainleaf.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,402
Size
Drying Time
Absorbency

Most important from
28627 reviews

Size
The compact size is extremely handy for travel, especially when luggage space is limited.
Drying Time
The towel is perfect for saving space in a gym bag and dries quickly, making it ideal for active routines.
Absorbency
Despite being thin, the towel absorbs water impressively well and dries within a few hours.
Packability
The towel is perfect for saving space in a gym bag and dries quickly, making it ideal for active routines.
#2

Wise Owl Outfitters Microfiber Camping Towel - Quick Dry Towel for Travel, Backpacking, Hiking, Beach, Gym & Yoga - Compact, Fast Drying & Lightweight

Rating
8.8
Material
Size
Weight

Most important from
8041 reviews

Material
Sturdy stitching and high-quality materials ensure the towel stands up to years of use.
Size
Multiple sizes are a plus, making it versatile for different needs, from wrapping hair to drying off after a swim.
Weight
Compact and lightweight, it's easy to pack and bring along on all adventures.
Drying Time
The Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Travel Towel is incredibly absorbent and dries quickly, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
Absorbency
The Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Travel Towel is incredibly absorbent and dries quickly, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
Antimicrobial Properties
Easy to clean, these towels use less detergent and water and dry fast, reducing bacterial growth.
Packability
Compact and lightweight, it's easy to pack and bring along on all adventures.

The Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Towel is a versatile choice for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. Made from microfiber, it boasts quick-dry properties, which means it won't stay wet for long after use. It's also highly absorbent, making it effective for drying off after a swim or a shower. The towel's antimicrobial properties help keep it fresh, reducing the risk of odors or bacterial growth over time.

Lightweight and compact, this travel towel packs conveniently into its carrying bag, making it easy to fit into your backpack or carry-on luggage. The package includes a full-size towel (30x60 inches) and a washcloth (12x24 inches), offering flexibility for different uses. Its softness is noted, with a suede-like feel that's gentle on the skin, even after multiple uses. The durable interlocking stitching ensures the towel can withstand regular use without fraying or falling apart. Available in vibrant colors like marine blue, it also adds a touch of style to your travel gear.

Some may find the towel's size to be slightly bulky compared to ultra-compact travel towels, and while it is lightweight at 10 ounces, there are lighter options available. Additionally, while the microfiber material is effective for quick drying and absorbency, it may not provide the same comfort and plushness as traditional cotton towels. The Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Towel offers a solid balance of quick-drying efficiency, absorbency, and durability, making it a reliable companion for activities like camping, hiking, yoga, and general travel.

Rating
8.8
Material
Size
Weight

Most important from
8041 reviews

Material
Sturdy stitching and high-quality materials ensure the towel stands up to years of use.
Size
Multiple sizes are a plus, making it versatile for different needs, from wrapping hair to drying off after a swim.
Weight
Compact and lightweight, it's easy to pack and bring along on all adventures.
Drying Time
The Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Travel Towel is incredibly absorbent and dries quickly, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
Absorbency
The Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Travel Towel is incredibly absorbent and dries quickly, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
Antimicrobial Properties
Easy to clean, these towels use less detergent and water and dry fast, reducing bacterial growth.
Packability
Compact and lightweight, it's easy to pack and bring along on all adventures.
#3

Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Towel Ultra Soft Compact Quick Dry Microfiber - Great for Fitness, Hiking, Yoga, Travel, Sports, Backpacking & The Gym - Free Bonus Hand Towel 24x48 MB

Rating
8.5
Material
Size
Weight

Most important from
8041 reviews

Material
Durable enough to withstand multiple washes and dryings, maintaining its quality and appearance over time.
Size
Folds down small enough to fit anywhere while still feeling full-sized when in use, perfectly balancing portability and coverage.
Weight
Lightweight design allows it to dry quickly even when attached to a backpack during hikes, making it great for extended camping trips.
Drying Time
The towel offers excellent softness and dries incredibly fast, making it ideal for camping, gym, and beach use without ever feeling damp or smelly.
Absorbency
Absorbs water well relative to its size, suitable for full-body drying without the heaviness of traditional towels.
Packability
The included carrying case is genuinely useful, helping keep the towel compact and easy to pack without adding bulk.

The Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Towel is designed specifically for travelers, campers, hikers, and fitness enthusiasts who need a lightweight, quick-drying towel that doesn’t take up much space. Made from microfiber, it’s soft and highly absorbent while drying much faster than regular cotton towels, which helps prevent that damp, musty smell. Weighing only about 6 ounces and folding neatly into a mesh carrying bag, it's easy to pack even for minimalist travelers. The Large size (24"x48") is a decent middle ground for full body use without being bulky, and the included small washcloth adds extra convenience for face or hand use. Another handy feature is the snap loop, allowing you to hang the towel easily to dry outdoors or in gym lockers.

The towel is built to be durable and machine washable. Its fabric is a low-pile synthetic blend that resists sand and dries quickly but being thin, it might not feel as plush as traditional towels. Available in three colors, it balances style and practicality well.

If you want a travel or camping towel that packs small, dries fast, and handles active lifestyles, this towel covers all the essentials effectively. For those who prefer a thicker, more luxurious feel or need a very large towel, other options might be worth considering.

Rating
8.5
Material
Size
Weight

Most important from
8041 reviews

Material
Durable enough to withstand multiple washes and dryings, maintaining its quality and appearance over time.
Size
Folds down small enough to fit anywhere while still feeling full-sized when in use, perfectly balancing portability and coverage.
Weight
Lightweight design allows it to dry quickly even when attached to a backpack during hikes, making it great for extended camping trips.
Drying Time
The towel offers excellent softness and dries incredibly fast, making it ideal for camping, gym, and beach use without ever feeling damp or smelly.
Absorbency
Absorbs water well relative to its size, suitable for full-body drying without the heaviness of traditional towels.
Packability
The included carrying case is genuinely useful, helping keep the towel compact and easy to pack without adding bulk.

Buying Guide for the Best Travel Towels

When choosing a travel towel, it's important to consider factors that will ensure it meets your needs while on the go. Travel towels are designed to be lightweight, compact, and quick-drying, making them ideal for various travel scenarios, from backpacking to beach vacations. Understanding the key specifications will help you select the best travel towel for your adventures.
MaterialThe material of a travel towel is crucial because it affects the towel's weight, absorbency, and drying time. Common materials include microfiber, cotton, and bamboo. Microfiber towels are lightweight, highly absorbent, and dry quickly, making them a popular choice for travelers. Cotton towels are soft and absorbent but tend to be bulkier and take longer to dry. Bamboo towels are eco-friendly, soft, and have natural antibacterial properties, but they may not dry as quickly as microfiber. Choose a material based on your preference for softness, drying time, and environmental impact.
SizeThe size of a travel towel determines how much space it will take up in your luggage and how effectively it can dry you off. Travel towels come in various sizes, from small hand towels to large beach towels. Small towels are compact and easy to pack but may not be sufficient for drying your entire body. Medium-sized towels offer a balance between packability and coverage, making them suitable for most travel needs. Large towels provide maximum coverage but can be bulkier to carry. Consider the type of travel you will be doing and how much space you have in your luggage when choosing the size.
WeightThe weight of a travel towel is important for keeping your luggage light and easy to carry. Lightweight towels are ideal for backpacking and other activities where every ounce counts. Heavier towels may offer more comfort and absorbency but can add unnecessary weight to your bag. Look for a towel that balances weight with functionality, ensuring it is light enough to carry but still effective for drying.
Drying TimeDrying time is a key factor for travel towels, as you want a towel that dries quickly to avoid carrying around a damp, heavy item. Quick-drying towels are typically made from materials like microfiber, which can dry in a matter of hours. Towels with longer drying times, such as cotton, may not be as convenient for travel. If you are frequently on the move or in humid environments, a quick-drying towel will be more practical and hygienic.
AbsorbencyAbsorbency refers to how much water a towel can hold. Highly absorbent towels can dry you off more effectively but may take longer to dry themselves. Microfiber towels are known for their high absorbency and quick drying time, making them a popular choice. Cotton towels are also very absorbent but may not dry as quickly. Consider how much water the towel needs to absorb and how quickly you need it to dry when making your choice.
Antimicrobial PropertiesAntimicrobial properties help prevent the growth of bacteria and odors, keeping your towel fresher for longer. Some travel towels are treated with antimicrobial agents or made from materials with natural antibacterial properties, such as bamboo. This feature is particularly useful for extended trips or when you may not have frequent access to laundry facilities. If hygiene is a top priority, look for a towel with antimicrobial properties.
PackabilityPackability refers to how easily the towel can be folded or rolled up and stored in your luggage. Travel towels are designed to be compact and come with features like carrying cases or straps to make packing easier. A highly packable towel will take up minimal space in your bag, leaving more room for other essentials. Consider how much space you have in your luggage and how important it is for the towel to be compact when making your selection.

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