I’ve been using a picnic blanket on my day hikes for years, and although I loved my old blanket it is really bulky. When I saw the Matador pocket blanket (#sponsored) at REI, I knew it was time for an upgrade! I was a little skeptical at first because the blanket was so lightweight. But now I’ve retired my old blanket for car camping, and always have this one in my day pack. Read on for my full Matador pocket blanket review.
Perks of a Matador Pocket Blanket
I’m really impressed with this ground blanket. It’s basically a lightweight tarp to make sitting on the ground a little nicer. It folds up neatly into a pocket sewed on at one corner, and there are small stakes attached at each corner to make it easier to stay spread on the ground.
The blanket is made of puncture resistant ripstop nylon. It stood up really well to my dog walking and napping on it. It also did a good job keeping my seat dry when I spread it on damp, dewy ground.
Using the blanket while backpacking
We recently used our Matador pocket blanket while backpacking overnight in the Pisgah National Forest. It was perfect for sitting on while we made dinner and again when we made breakfast the next morning. Our campsite was full of roots and small rocks, so my boyfriend used his foam sit-upon, too, but I was just fine with only the blanket. It got a little dirty on the ground side, but didn’t get any holes or worn spots. It’s definitely going to make it into my pack for the next trip!
Other ways to use it
Besides for hiking and backpacking, the Matodor pocket blanket is also great for outdoor concerts, a day at the beach, or a picnic at the park. The one I bought comfortably seats two people and a dog (63″x44″), but there’s also a mini version that’s perfect for one person (44″x28″).
It’s always fun to find a versatile, lightweight piece of gear that makes spending time outside more enjoyable. This one won’t disappoint. At 3.6 oz for the full size and 1.4oz for the mini, it won’t weigh you down, either way.
