Would it be right to do a Canadian camping gear test without taking along a Hbc blanket? I don’t think so.

“… introduced into the fur trade in 1780, it is believed that M. Germain Maugenest first suggested to the Company’s London Committee that “pointed blankets” become a regular trade item. The “point” system had been invented by French weavers in the mid 18th century as a means of indicating the finished overall size (area) of a blanket, since then, as now, blankets were shrunk or felted as part of the manufacturing process.”  – Excerpted and paraphrased from Our History: The Hbc Point Blanket

This was the first time I had taken a blanket camping, as I usually go as light and modern as possible, but there are some real benefits to having a good old fashioned blanket on the trip. Here are two: my blanket wasn’t as affected by the moisture of the Maine woods; I discovered that if, while worn by or left near a camp fire, a stray ember will do less damage to a proper blanket than to a synthetic warm wrap.

I wouldn’t suggest the Hbc blanket as the ideal trekking campanion, but for spring/fall camping with a car or canoeing, it makes a welcome addition to the kit. As far as your cottage (or “cabin” for you B.C. folks) goes, this classic piece of Canadiana is a must.

Available in many sizes and weights to suit, see Hbc.com for more details.