After several disgusting encounters with hotel towels whose cleanliness were questionable or, at the least, embedded with hair, I swore off “public” towels. Alternately, bringing my own towel during travel wasn’t as practical as you would think. Traditional towels are too bulky to pack and they never dry fast enough resulting in packing a heavy, wet mass. By the time I’d unpack the towel at a new destination it smelled awful and was just as wet as when I packed it.
Years ago, I stumbled on a discount camp-outdoor store outside of Salt Lake City. It was having a good ol’ fashioned sidewalk sale so I had a peek. While browsing the discontinued or out of season wares, I spotted a section of neatly bundled packets hanging from polyester loops and carabiners. “Travel Towels” I read as I fingered the colorful, 2-inch squared swatches dangling from their display. So, I bought one thinking I’d try it out on my next adventure.
Since that adventure, the travel towel (or camp towel) has been a game changer. It’s on my short list of travel things that I can’t live without. Made of microfiber, these dry up to five times faster than regular towels and weigh next to nothing. Also, they’re impressively absorbent despite their size. Most importantly, travel towels are compact and don’t take up space; they’re great for backpacks, luggage or elsewhere real estate is precious. In addition to affordability (as low as $7.99), they’re low maintenance and versatile. Use isn’t restricted to travel, but also camping, beach, and many outdoor recreational activities where a towel and space are valued.
Travel towels typically come in three sizes and accompanied with their own carrying case. If you should come across them at TJ Maxx or Marshalls get them. Their prices are agreeable, check for quality. If not, Amazon would also suffice. Apart from these three retailers prices increase drastically. You can thank me later. 😉 – MMR
DID YOU KNOW? The wax like substance used in dryer sheets and fabric softeners that prevents wrinkles also coats towels averting absorption. Refrain from using on towels.
