Why using a travel yogamat? Yoga is becoming an increasingly popular activity for travelers who want to maintain their practice while on the go. Having the right yoga mat can make all the difference for an enjoyable experience. Unlike regular mats designed for home use, travel mats are specialized for portability, compactness and durability. This article will cover everything you need to know about choosing the ideal yoga travel mat.

Video – How to Pack Your Tavel Yoga Mat

Why a Travel Mat is Different from a Regular Mat

Yoga travel mats are designed with portability in mind. They are typically lighter weight, thinner, and made of materials that allow them to be easily rolled, folded or packed away. The best travel mats balance both comfort and packability.

Many are made of lightweight natural or synthetic materials like rubber, cotton, microfiber or TPE (thermoplastic elastomer). These materials provide decent grip and cushioning while remaining thin and foldable. Yoga travel mats also tend to be shorter in length than standard size mats.

Key Features to Look for in a Yoga Travel Mat

Thickness

The ideal thickness is between 1-3mm. Too thick and the mat will be difficult to pack, too thin and knee comfort will suffer.

Material

Rubber, cotton and TPE are common. Rubber provides decent grip but can be on the heavier side. Cotton is lightweight and eco-friendly but not as supportive. TPE is lightweight with good grip, but not as sustainable.

Size and Weight

Average dimensions are 24 x 68 inches when unrolled, and 24 x 4 inches when rolled up. Weight should be under 2 pounds for easy travel.

Grip and Texture

A textured surface provides traction to prevent sliding. Look for a mat with an open-cell texture that absorbs sweat.

Eco-Friendliness

Consider materials like organic cotton, natural rubber or recycled microfiber that are sustainably sourced.

Top 5 Yoga Travel Mats

Here are five top-rated options to consider:

1. Manduka eKOlite Travel Mat – lightweight natural rubber with superior grip.
2. Jade Travel Mat – sustainable natural rubber with excellent cushioning.
3. Gaiam Roll Up Travel Mat – lightweight TPE material under 1lb.
4. Yogitoes Skinny Travel Mat – microfiber with great absorption.
5. IUGA Pro Travel Yoga Mat – hybrid material provides comfort and grip.

How to Care for Your Yoga Travel Mat

It’s important to properly clean, store and care for your yoga mat to maximize its longevity. Roll up tightly and avoid creasing when storing. Clean regularly with gentle, eco-friendly sprays or wipes. Let air dry fully before rolling up. With proper care, your mat can last for years of travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a travel mat for regular practice?

While portable, some find travel mats too thin for prolonged home use. They are best suited for travel or occasional practice.

How do I know if a mat is eco-friendly?

Look for materials like organic cotton, natural tree rubber or recycled microfiber. Also check if sustainability is mentioned.

What’s the best way to fold or roll a travel mat?

Roll tightly and smoothly to avoid creasing. Some can be folded into rectangles. Follow the instructions in the video on top of the article

Conclusion

Choosing the right travel yoga mat involves balancing portability with comfort and grip. Consider the material, size, weight and thickness based on your needs and travel plans. With so many options available, yogis can find the perfect travel companion.