I finally got my own Dryrobe Advance Changing Robe and now I understand what all the fuss is about

I never really considered myself a proper camper until our recent trip to Devon. We were wet camping, which meant there was no avoiding the rain. My husband already had a Dryrobe and I kept pinching his whenever I needed to head to the shower. After doing this a few too many times, I decided it was probably time I got my own, and one for my son too.

I tried the Black Camo Pink Advance Changing Robe £175, while my son has the Mosaic Palm Kids Advance Changing Robe £110. I originally ordered a large because I’m usually a size 12-14, but it was huge on me, so I sent it back and ordered a medium instead. The delivery was actually really quick.

What I liked about the Dryrobe Advance Changing Robe

The first thing I noticed about the Advance Changing Robe is just how practical it is. This is one of those things that makes you wonder why you didn’t buy it sooner.

The obvious benefit when you’re camping is that it gives you somewhere warm and dry to get changed.The black camo design feels understated and the fleece lining is fast-drying. Exactly what you want when you’re dealing with the British weather.

I particularly love the pink lining in mine. It’s a small detail, but it makes the robe feel a little more fun rather than just being a very practical piece of outdoor kit. I also really like the black camo design. It’s understated enough that I can wear it around the campsite.

The Mosaic Palm Kids Advance Changing Robe in the size 10-13, and he absolutely loves it. His is from the new Golden Hour collection, which is inspired by the glow of sunsets. The Mosaic Palm design is definitely brighter than the one I chose for myself, and while I’m not sure the colour would have been my first choice, I have to admit there is one very useful benefit: I can always see him.

When you’re camping and it’s raining, windy and everyone is wandering around in waterproofs, being able to spot your child easily is actually a big plus. He loves wearing it when the weather is at its worst. On those days when it is absolutely pouring with rain, he is more than happy to put it on.

What I didn't like about the Dryrobe Advance Changing Robe

There is one thing I think anyone considering a Dryrobe changing robe needs to think about before buying, and that is the bulkiness of the coat. When you’re actually wearing it, the generous shape is part of the appeal. You want enough room to get changed underneath it and you certainly don’t want something tight and restrictive. But when you’re not wearing it, these robes are big.

Trying to find somewhere to store them at home is not quite as easy as I expected, and throwing them in the back of the car takes up a fair amount of space too. If you’re already packing tents, sleeping bags, camping chairs and everything else you need for camping, then you need to remember that Dryrobes can take up a lot of space. It might be worth buying the Compression Travel Bag £35 as well.

Overall verdict

I’m officially converted. Before our camping trip, a Dryrobe felt like one of those pieces of camping equipment that everyone else seemed to own but I couldn’t quite understand why. Now I’m one of those people.

After spending a wet weekend in repeatedly borrowing my husband's, I’m glad I finally got my own. If we’re going to become a proper camping family, I think the changing robes are here to stay.

Natalie Dixon is our Lifestyle reporter, if you liked this article and want to read more about fashion, beauty and lifestyle you can follow Natalie Dixon on X here