What Are Some Uses for Mylar Blankets?
Mylar is the trade name for a polyester film. Mylar blankets are also called thermal blankets. Originally developed for space flight, these blankets can be used to retain body heat. A resourceful outdoorsman will find a number of other uses.
-
Reflector Signal
-
Mylar reflects 99 percent of sunlight, so it is a great reflector to signal airplanes or ships in a survival situation. Either unfold it and wave it in the sunlight or fold it to a smaller size and manually focus a beam on the target.
Campfire Reflector
-
Hang up this blanket behind you while sitting at a campfire to get even heating on both sides. An alternative is to put it on the opposing side of the fire from your tent to direct the heat where you need it most.
-
Water Collection
-
By making a pin-sized hole in the middle of the sheet and hanging it from four sides, a Mylar blanket can be used to collect rainwater. Place a container below the hole in the middle and any rain that falls on the Mylar will trickle down into the cup.
Poncho
-
Mylar is impervious to water, is lightweight and can be cut easily. In case of heavy rainfall, cut a head-sized hole in the middle of the blanket and wear it as a poncho.
Ground Blanket/ Tarpaulin
-
Again, the waterproof nature of Mylar makes it useful as either a ground blanket or tarp. It can be put underneath a more conventional tent to prevent water seepage overnight.
-
