Emergency Blankets for Your Survival Kit: The Ultimate Guide

When I was stranded on a mountain trail last autumn after an unexpected snowstorm hit, the emergency blanket tucked in the bottom of my pack literally saved my life. That thin sheet of material kept me warm until rescue arrived the next morning. But not all emergency blankets are created equal—and choosing the wrong one could mean the difference between comfort and catastrophe when you need it most.

Whether you're an avid hiker, a cautious prepper, or someone who just wants to be prepared for whatever life throws your way, understanding the different types of emergency blankets and their specific uses is crucial. I've tested dozens over the years, and I'm here to help you navigate the surprisingly complex world of these simple life-saving tools.

Emergency blankets (also called space blankets or thermal blankets) are lightweight, compact sheets designed to preserve body heat in emergency situations. Originally developed by NASA for space missions, these ingenious inventions work through a combination of heat reflection, insulation, and protection from the elements.

The science behind them is straightforward but brilliant: most emergency blankets reflect up to 90% of your body heat back to you rather than allowing it to escape into the environment. This reflection happens because of the metallic coating (usually aluminum) applied to a thin plastic substrate.

When wrapped around your body, these blankets create a barrier that:

• Reflects your radiant body heat back toward you

• Blocks wind from stealing your warmth

• Prevents moisture from soaking through (in most models)

• Creates a microclimate of warmth around your body

What they are: These are the classic, ultra-lightweight, shiny blankets often included in first aid kits.

Mylar blankets are made from a thin polyester film coated with a metallic reflective material (usually aluminum). They typically weigh only 2-3 ounces and fold down to the size of a deck of cards.

Best for: Hikers and backpackers who count every ounce, one-time emergency use, and basic emergency kits.

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight and compact

• Very affordable (often under $2 per blanket)

• Reflect up to 90% of body heat

• Versatile for signaling and water collection

Cons:

• Tear easily with minimal abuse

• Often one-time use

• Can be noisy in wind

• Condensation can build up inside

Top recommendation: Grabber Original Space Blanket offers reliable performance at a budget-friendly price. I keep several stashed in different places—my daypack, car, and home emergency kit.

What they are: These are thicker, more durable versions of standard Mylar blankets.

Heavy-duty emergency blankets use tougher materials and often incorporate woven backing or reinforced edges to prevent tearing. They're typically 40-60% heavier than standard blankets but offer significantly improved durability.

Best for: Regular outdoor adventures, situations where reuse is likely, and harsher environments.

Pros:

• Much more durable than standard Mylar

• Reusable multiple times

• Often include grommets for shelter building

• Better insulation due to thicker materials

Cons:

• Heavier than standard blankets (typically 5-8 ounces)

• More expensive ($10-20 range)

• Still not as durable as fabric-based options

• Slightly larger packed size

Top recommendation: The SOL Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket has saved me during an unexpected overnight stop on a mountain trail. It's tough enough to use as a ground cloth or emergency shelter and has reinforced edges that prevent the frustrating tears that plague cheaper options.

What they are: These are essentially sleeping bag-shaped emergency blankets that provide full-body coverage.

Emergency bivvy sacks enclose your entire body, trapping heat more efficiently than a standard blanket. Most feature the same reflective technology as emergency blankets but in a sealed or semi-sealed tube design.

Best for: Cold weather emergencies, overnight situations, and when you need hands-free protection.

Pros:

• Full-body coverage for maximum heat retention

• Often includes a hood for head protection

• Some models are breathable to reduce condensation

• Hands remain free while body stays protected

Cons:

• Larger packed size than blankets

• More expensive ($15-30 for quality options)

• Entry/exit can be challenging in emergencies

• Some models can cause excessive sweating

Top recommendation: The SOL Emergency Bivvy Sack offers the perfect balance between weight and function. What impressed me most during testing was how it kept me dry during an unexpected rainstorm while still allowing enough breathability to prevent that clammy feeling cheaper options create.

What they are: Traditional woolen blankets designed specifically for emergency situations.

Unlike their metallic counterparts, wool emergency blankets rely on natural fiber insulation. They're significantly heavier but offer advantages in certain situations, particularly around fire.

Best for: Home emergency kits, vehicle kits, and situations where weight isn't a primary concern.

Pros:

• Naturally fire-resistant (unlike Mylar which can melt)

• Provides insulation even when damp

• Silent in use (no crinkly noise)

• Extremely durable and reusable

• More comfortable against skin

Cons:

• Heavy (2-4 pounds)

• Bulky packed size

• Slow to dry when wet

• More expensive ($30-60)

Top recommendation: The Rothco European Surplus Style Wool Blanket has been my go-to for keeping in my truck during winter months. I've used it both in emergencies and on casual camping trips, and its durability is impressive—mine is going on five years of regular use with minimal signs of wear.

What they are: Tube-shaped Mylar or similar material designed to function as both shelter and heat reflector.

Emergency tube tents combine the reflective properties of space blankets with a shelter design. They typically feature a tube-like structure with open ends, allowing them to be used as improvised shelters.

Best for: Wilderness survival situations, bug-out bags, and when shelter is a priority.

Pros:

• Provides both warmth and shelter

• Often includes cord for setup

• Reflects heat while protecting from elements

• Can accommodate 1-2 people

Cons:

• Requires setup time and anchor points

• Heavier than simple blankets

• More specialized use case

• Usually one-time use only

Top recommendation: The Don't Die In The Woods Ultralight Survival Tent has proven itself during multiple backcountry adventures. Its name might be dramatic, but its performance isn't—I've used mine through a surprise thunderstorm in the Rockies, and it kept two of us dry and warm all night.

The magic of emergency blankets lies in their ability to manage heat transfer. Our bodies lose heat in four primary ways:

1. Radiation (emitting heat waves)

2. Conduction (direct contact with cold surfaces)

3. Convection (air movement carrying away heat)

4. Evaporation (sweat turning to vapor and taking heat with it)

Emergency bivvy sacks outperform blankets in sustained wet conditions. Look for fully-sealed options with waterproof seams.The Bearhard Emergency Sleeping Bag Survival Bivy Sack offers exceptional performance in wet conditions due to its fully taped seams and water-resistant zipper.

Emergency blankets primarily address radiation, which accounts for approximately 50% of body heat loss. The reflective surface bounces radiant heat back toward your body instead of allowing it to escape.

Most emergency blankets also create a barrier against wind (reducing convective heat loss) and moisture (preventing evaporative heat loss). Some thicker models even provide insulation against conductive heat loss when sitting or lying on cold surfaces.

The reusability of emergency blankets varies significantly by type:

Standard Mylar blankets are generally considered single-use items. While technically you could reuse them if you're extremely careful, they tear so easily that most people find them damaged after one use. I've managed to reuse them 2-3 times with careful folding and storage, but I consider any use beyond the first as a bonus.

Heavy-duty emergency blankets are designed for multiple uses. Quality options like the Arcturus Heavy Duty Survival Blanket can last through 10+ uses if properly cared for. The reinforced edges and thicker material significantly extend their lifespan.

Emergency bivvy sacks typically last 3-5 uses before showing significant wear. Higher-end models with ripstop nylon exteriors can last much longer.

Wool blankets are the champions of reusability. A quality wool emergency blanket can last decades with proper care. The initial investment is higher, but the cost per use is actually lower over time.

Emergency tube tents fall somewhere between standard and heavy-duty blankets in terms of reusability. Most can handle 2-4 uses before reliability becomes questionable.

The materials used in emergency blankets directly impact their effectiveness, durability, and best use cases:

• Found in: Standard emergency blankets, heavy-duty blankets, bivvy sacks, tube tents

• Properties: Excellent heat reflection, waterproof, windproof, extremely lightweight

• Best for: Situations where weight and space are critical factors

• Found in: The reflective coating on most emergency blankets

• Properties: Superior heat reflection, conductive (can help dissipate excess heat in hot conditions if reversed)

• Best for: All-around emergency use

• Found in: Exterior of premium bivvy sacks, reinforcement in heavy-duty blankets

• Properties: Excellent tear resistance, good durability, reasonable weight

• Best for: Repeated use and rougher handling

• Found in: Traditional emergency blankets

• Properties: Natural insulation, fire-resistant, comfortable, insulates even when damp

• Best for: Home/vehicle kits, fire proximity, comfort priority

When disaster strikes, no one knows how long it will last.

• Found in: Base material for many heavy-duty blankets

• Properties: Durable, waterproof, relatively inexpensive

• Best for: Budget-conscious reusable options

When facing extreme weather, your choice of emergency blanket becomes even more critical:

In these life-threatening conditions, I recommend a combination approach:

1. A heavy-duty emergency blanket as your outer layer to reflect heat and block wind

2. A wool blanket as an insulating middle layer if weight allows

3. An emergency bivvy sack as your primary body enclosure

The Outdoor Research Alpine Bivy leads the pack for extreme cold situations. While expensive, it's engineered specifically for mountaineering and extreme conditions.

Emergency bivvy sacks outperform blankets in sustained wet conditions. Look for fully-sealed options with waterproof seams.

AquaQuest Pharaoh Bivy Sack offers exceptional performance in wet conditions due to its fully taped seams and water-resistant zipper.

Heavy-duty emergency blankets with grommets are your best bet. The attachment points allow you to secure the blanket against powerful gusts.

The Arcturus Heavy Duty Survival Blanket features reinforced grommets specifically designed to withstand high-wind scenarios—I've used mine in 30+ mph winds without issues.

In hot environments, you want protection from sun exposure while allowing airflow. The Snugpak Jungle Blanket works well here, as does a standard emergency blanket used as a shade (silver side up to reflect sunlight).

Yes, emergency blankets can function as improvised shelters, though their effectiveness varies by type:

While possible to use as minimal shelters, standard blankets are challenging due to their tendency to tear at stress points. If you must use one:

• Use smooth stones (not sharp sticks) as anchor weights

• Avoid stretching the material tight

• Create a slight slope for water runoff

These make much more effective shelters. The Arcturus Heavy Duty Survival Blanket features eight reinforced grommets specifically for shelter building. I've created effective A-frame shelters and lean-tos using just this blanket and some paracord.

These are purpose-built for shelter use. The Go Time Gear Survival Life Tent comes with a pre-attached cord and sets up in under two minutes, providing immediate protection from rain and wind.

1. A-Frame: Provides good rain runoff and wind protection

2. Lean-To: Quick to set up and allows fire heat reflection

3. Wrap-Around: For maximum body heat retention in dry conditions

4. Ground Cover: Under another shelter to provide moisture barrier

Selecting the perfect emergency blanket for outdoor adventures depends on several factors:

Weight and space are premium considerations. I recommend carrying a standard Mylar blanket (or two) in an accessible pocket of your pack.

The Swiss Safe Emergency Mylar Blankets come in a compact four-pack that weighs next to nothing—perfect for distributing throughout your gear.

The balance tips slightly toward durability. A heavy-duty emergency blanket like the SOL Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket offers better reliability while adding only a few ounces.

Reliability becomes paramount. S.O.L. Survive Outdoors Longer SOL Escape Insulated Blanket or an emergency bivvy sack provides the durability needed for potential multi-day use in an emergency.

Cold-weather outings demand more substantial protection. The SOL Emergency Bivvy Sack combined with a heavy-duty reflective blanket creates a redundant system that could be life-saving if you're stranded overnight.

Weight concerns are reduced, so consider the comfort and usability advantages of wool. The Rothco European Surplus Style Wool Blanket serves double-duty as both emergency gear and comfortable evening wrap around the campfire.

The water and wind resistance of emergency blankets varies by type:

• Waterproof? Yes, the material itself is waterproof, but water can easily enter from the sides if not properly wrapped.

• Windproof? Yes, they create an effective wind barrier when properly secured.

• Waterproof? Yes, superior water resistance to standard blankets, especially those with sealed or reinforced edges.

• Windproof? Excellent wind protection, particularly models with grommets that allow secure anchoring.

• Waterproof? Most are highly water-resistant, with premium models being fully waterproof. The Mezonn Emergency Sleeping Bag offers remarkable water protection at a reasonable price point.

• Windproof? Superior wind protection due to the enclosed design that eliminates edge flapping.

• Waterproof? No, wool absorbs water but continues to insulate when damp (unlike cotton).

• Windproof? Moderate wind resistance—better than nothing but inferior to synthetic options.

• Waterproof? Yes, when properly set up with appropriate pitch for water runoff.

• Windproof? Good wind resistance when secured properly, though open ends require strategic positioning.

The distinction between standard Mylar and heavy-duty emergency blankets comes down to several key factors:

• Standard Mylar: Typically 12-15 microns thick

• Heavy-Duty: Usually 25-50 microns thick

• Standard Mylar: Single-layer metalized film

• Heavy-Duty: Often multi-layer with reinforcement or backing materials

• Standard Mylar: Basic rectangular sheet

• Heavy-Duty: May include grommets, reinforced edges, colored sides for signaling

• Standard Mylar: Tears easily, typically one-time use

• Heavy-Duty: Resistant to punctures and tears, reusable multiple times

• Standard Mylar: 2-3 ounces

• Heavy-Duty: 5-12 ounces

• Standard Mylar: $1-5 each

• Heavy-Duty: $10-25 each

• Standard Mylar: Weight-critical applications, backup use, multiple kit distribution

• Heavy-Duty: Primary emergency tool, shelter building, repeated use scenarios

I've found that the Grizzly Gear Emergency Mylar Thermal Blanket hits a sweet spot between the ultra-light standard blankets and the more expensive heavy-duty options—it's slightly more durable than basic models without a significant weight penalty.

Emergency blankets make excellent signaling devices, which is a critical secondary function many people overlook:

The reflective surface of most emergency blankets can be seen from miles away in daylight. Go Time Gear Life Bivy Emergency Sleeping Bag actually incorporates an orange side specifically designed for maximum visibility.

1. Flash Reflection: Angling the blanket to reflect sunlight toward aircraft or distant locations

2. Movement: Waving a folded blanket creates noticeable movement

3. Ground Signal: Laying out in specific shapes visible from aircraft (X for emergency, V for assistance, etc.)

4. Contrast: Silver against natural backgrounds creates high contrast visible from distanceWhen disaster strikes, no one knows how long it will last.

Some blankets, like an Emergency Reflective Blanket Kit, include specific signal-enhancing features such as brightly colored backing or printed SOS patterns.

• Standard Mylar: Excellent reflective properties but can be difficult to manage in wind

• Heavy-Duty Blankets: Easier to manipulate for sustained signaling

• Wool Blankets: Poor signaling capability compared to reflective options

• Bivvy Sacks: Can be difficult to use for signaling while serving their primary function

I once used the reflective surface of my emergency blanket to signal a search helicopter during a backcountry rescue operation—the pilot later told me they spotted the flash from over two miles away.

Beyond their primary function of thermal protection, emergency blankets have numerous creative applications in survival situations:

The waterproof nature of most emergency blankets makes them excellent for rain collection or solar stills. Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight includes instructions for creating a water collection system using their included blanket.

• Shock Prevention: Wrapping victims to maintain core temperature

• Improvised Stretcher: Heavy-duty blankets with grommets can transport injured persons

• Splint Binding: Strips cut from blankets secure improvised splints

• Wound Coverage: Clean blankets provide temporary wound barriers

• Ground Insulation: Prevents conductive heat loss when sleeping

• Snow Melting: Dark-sided blankets accelerate snow melt for water

• Fire Heat Reflector: Positioned behind fires to direct heat toward you

• Fishing Lure: Strips of reflective material attract certain fish species

• Food Preservation: Reflecting sunlight to reduce food temperature

• Gear Protection: Keeping equipment dry in wet conditions

• Temporary Repairs: Patching leaks or covering broken windows

• Sunshade: Reflecting sunlight to create cooled areas

• Light Enhancement: Positioning to reflect campfire or flashlight illumination

The TOBWLOF Emergency Sleeping Bag, Lightweight Life Bivy Sacks actually includes printed survival instructions directly on the bivvy—a thoughtful addition that could prove invaluable when stress compromises recall of survival techniques.

Emergency preparedness doesn't have to break the bank—there are quality options at every price point:

• Swiss Safe Emergency Mylar Blankets ($7 for 4-pack): The best value for distributing throughout multiple kits

• Coghlan's Tube Tent ($8): Affordable shelter option with surprising durability

• Grizzly Gear Emergency Mylar Thermal Blanket ($6): Slightly thicker than standard options

• SOL Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket ($15): Excellent balance of durability and packability

• Arcturus Heavy Duty Survival Blanket ($20): Superior grommets for shelter building

• Mezonn Emergency Sleeping Bag ($25): Includes whistle and impressive water resistance

• Outdoor Research Alpine Bivy ($70): Professional-grade protection for extreme conditions

• Rothco European Surplus Style Wool Blanket ($35): Long-term durability justifies cost

• Life Tent by Go Time Gear ($39): Premium materials and reinforced design

The SOL Emergency Bivvy Sack ($17) offers the best combination of protection, packability, and price. I've personally tested it in temperatures down to 20°F (-7°C) as part of a layered sleep system, and it performed admirably.

Proper care significantly extends the life of your emergency blankets:

1. Keep Dry: Store in waterproof containers or bags

2. Avoid Compression: Don't place heavy items on top of blankets

3. Temperature Control: Avoid extreme heat (vehicle in summer) which can degrade materials

4. Accessibility: Store where quickly retrievable in emergencies

1. Air Dry: If blanket becomes wet, allow to completely dry before repacking

2. Gentle Folding: Follow manufacturer fold lines to minimize creasing damage

3. Inspect Regularly: Check for tears or delamination every 6 months

4. Repair Preemptively: Use duct tape to reinforce weak points before they fail

1. Original Size: Practice refolding to original dimensions

2. Air Removal: Press air out gently before final fold

3. Secure Closure: Use rubber bands or small cordage rather than tape

After testing dozens of emergency blankets across various conditions, my recommendations come down to specific use cases:

The Grabber Original Space Blanket earns my recommendation for everyday carry. At just 2.5 ounces, there's simply no excuse not to have one in your daily bag, glove compartment, or desk drawer.

The SOL Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket hits the sweet spot between weight and functionality for trail adventures. It's durable enough to serve multiple purposes while adding only minimal weight to your pack.

The Rothco European Surplus Style Wool Blanket is ideal for vehicles where weight isn't a primary concern. It doubles as comfort item and emergency gear, and won't be damaged by temperature fluctuations in your car.

The Emergency Reflective Blanket Kit provides multiple blankets suitable for family needs during power outages or home emergencies.

The Outdoor Research Alpine Bivy is worth the investment for those regularly venturing into challenging environments where failure of equipment could have serious consequences.

Remember: the best emergency blanket is the one you have with you when you need it. Even the most advanced option does you no good sitting in your closet during an emergency. Consider distributing multiple affordable options throughout your gear, vehicles, and home.

Have you had an experience where an emergency blanket made a difference? What type do you carry? Share your story in the comments below—your experience might help someone else make the right choice when it matters most.