Summertime is all about sweet breezes and sunshine, grassy knolls, and sandy beaches.
Imagine it’s time to head to the lake, the park, or the sea, but as you’re packing you can’t help but feel like you’re forgetting something. Sunscreen: check. Sunglasses, umbrella, picnic basket: check, check, check.
But the picnic blanket? It’s missing, and you definitely need to fix that ASAP. What you might not expect is to find one million options online. Not to worry – this guide will show you what to look for. Plus, it’ll give you a handy list of the best picnic blankets available on Amazon right now.
Quick Answer: Best Blankets for Picnics
- Best Overall: Scuddles Extra-Large Picnic Blanket
- Best Extra-Large: Oniva Outdoor Picnic Blanket
- Best Checkered: Camco Classic Checkered Picnic Blanket
- Best Cold-Weather: Oceas Waterproof Outdoor Blanket
- Best for the Beach: Angemay Extra-Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket
- Best for Travel: Wekapo Compact Picnic Blanket
- Best Recycled: Benevolence LA Authentic Mexican Blanket
- Most Stylish: MIU Color Large Picnic Blanket
- Best Heavy Duty: YETI Lowlands Outdoor Blanket
- Best Foldable: Zomake Extra-Large Foldable Picnic Blanket
- Best Waterproof: Isopho XL Waterproof Picnic Blanket
- Best for Kids: JJ Cole Outdoor Blanket
- Best for Camping: Pike Trail Compact Pocket Picnic Blanket
- Best Budget: Yodo Outdoor Picnic Blanket
- Best for the Park: Redcamp Extra-Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket
How to Find the Best Picnic Blanket
You can sort out the picnic blanket madness by breaking down your choices into priorities and categories. Find your best options all below, from checkered picnic blankets for the park to waterproof, foldable picnic mats for the beach and cute, cheap, cloth blankets for the outdoors.
1. Size: Pocket Size to Extra Large Outdoor Blankets
When it comes to choosing the right size for your picnic blanket, the sky is truly the limit. But it may help to think about how many people are going on the picnic and where you will be going. For two people, a pocket-size blanket (60 x 56 inches) will do. But if the whole fam, including all the aunties and cousins, are along for the outing, go for a supersize blanket (10 x 9 foot). If the number of people falls somewhere in between, a standard size will suit you just fine.
2. Durability: Washable & Waterproof Picnic Blankets
Several durability factors might also come into play, including if the outdoor blanket is machine washable, waterproof, water-resistant, or even sand-resistant. If you know you’ll need to wash your picnic blanket every time you use it, a machine-washable blanket might be best. If you might be spreading it on wet grass, a water-resistant option is fine. But if you’re going to the beach, you’ll likely prefer a waterproof picnic blanket.
3. Style: Picnic Cloth, Picnic Mat, or Picnic Blanket
What you probably didn’t consider was weighing the options between picnic cloth, picnic mat, and picnic blanket. A picnic cloth is often a thin, lightweight material similar to traditional tablecloths used on picnic tables. A picnic mat is usually a foldable outdoor blanket with a thin foam pad and a water-resistant or waterproof bottom side. And a traditional picnic blanket might be made of a thicker, heavier, more durable material that usually isn’t naturally waterproof but may have water-resistant features.
4. Portability: Rollable or Foldable
The main factor for deciding the portability of a picnic blanket is how it’s carried. Decide what’s best for you by considering if the picnic blanket can be rolled up and buckled, tightly folded, or stuffed into a carrying bag. Some picnic blankets will have a handle attached. How big it is and how much it weighs could also be important depending on how far the outdoor blanket will be carried.
5. Material: Picnic Blankets for Beach, Park, or Cold Weather
What kind of material you prefer when choosing a picnic blanket probably depends on when and where you’ll be having your picnic. For example, if it’s cold weather, a thick fleece picnic or foam-padded polyester blanket might be great. If you’re going to the beach, waterproof and sandproof materials are highly desirable. For a lightweight, hiking-appropriate option, the best picnic blankets are typically made with nylon material.
6. Patterns: Cute or Checkered Picnic Blankets
Beyond all of the above factors, choosing the pattern that sets the scene for your picnic might also prove important. Take your pick from an endless rainbow of options, from watermelons and yellow pineapple prints to black and gingham or even that classic and beloved red-checkered picnic blanket pattern.
Best Picnic Blanket Reviews
And now for our picks of the best outdoor blankets for picnics you can buy on Amazon! Peruse this list to discover just how many shapes, sizes, and options a picnic blanket can really come in. By the end of it, you’re sure to find the best blanket for your picnics.
Best Overall Picnic Blanket
Scuddles Extra-Large Picnic Blanket
As far as extra-large picnic blankets go, Scuddles is a front runner with its stylish stripes, big size options (up to 80 x 80 inches), comfort, and convenience. The super-soft striped polyester is waterproof, sandproof, and easy to clean thanks to its PEVA backing. Plus, its three-layer system means there’s foam padding sandwiched between the top and bottom layers for extra comfort. So, if it’s a little extra cush you’re seeking, this one’s got you covered whether you’re going to the park, beach, or bleachers. In addition, this foldable picnic blanket packs up with a nifty handle for the easiest carrying possible. All of these features combined mean the Scuddles Extra-Large Picnic Blanket is one of the best blankets for outdoors.
Best Extra-Large Picnic Blanket
Oniva Outdoor Picnic Blanket
Oniva’s black tartan picnic blanket is an extra-large picnic blanket (70 x 80 inches) when opened up. It’s made of fleece and polyester with water-resistant backing, making it great for any variety of settings. It’s also a cinch to tote with its adjustable shoulder strap and folding size of 18 x 11 x 5 inches. And it has a handy zippered pocket perfect for storing your phone, keys, cash, and more.
Oniva is also a brand you can trust, backed as it is by 40-plus years of business in outdoor recreation. They even provide a built-to-last lifetime promise, guaranteeing this outdoor picnic blanket is a keeper for the long haul. So, it’s a no-brainer to keep one in the car and plan to use it every chance you get.
Best Checkered Picnic Blanket
Camco Classic Checkered Picnic Blanket
If it’s nostalgia you’re after, the classic gingham red-and-white checkered pattern of the Camco Classic is where it’s at. But this isn’t grandma’s typical throw cloth. It’s a modern hybrid that blends the cool, vintage vibe with the contemporary stain-resistance, cushioning, insulation, and durable waterproof backing expected of outdoor picnic blankets today. Plus, it’s affordable, lightweight, and compactable. The standard size for Camco picnic blankets is 51 x 59 inches and weighs under a pound while cinching down to the size of a notebook. It also features a built-in carrying handle and a hook and loop flap to keep it securely closed. It’s the obvious choice for your next tailgate party, picnic, or camping trip.
Best Cold-Weather Picnic Blanket
Oceas Waterproof Outdoor Blanket
When it comes to picnic blankets for cold weather, Oceas clearly knows what it is doing. It all starts with the company’s ripstop polyester, polar fleece, and double layers of polyurethane waterproof coating. It’s so durable it can take on most weather conditions and stand up to extra factors – yoga activity, wind, sand, to name just a few – that others haven’t thought of. On top of that, this oversized outdoor blanket can easily be stuffed into its own water-resistant bag, taking up just 7 x 15 inches of space. Then, if it gets wet or dirty, just toss it in the washing machine. Yes, it’s even machine washable. Still not convinced? Just give it a try risk-free. Oceas promises to back up your purchase with a baffling one-year, no-questions-asked guarantee.
Best Picnic Blanket for the Beach
Angemay Extra-Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket
For those seeking an extra-large picnic blanket size and compatibility, not many outdoor blankets can match what Angemay has accomplished. The fact that it rolls out to 60 x 80 inches and shrinks down to just 7 x 12 inches is probably enough to establish it as one of the best waterproof blankets on the market. But the added perks really seal the deal. This outdoor mat is also thick and soft, waterproof and sandproof, durable, and easy to clean. Plus, it has a foolproof four-way fold system, velcro closure, and a carrying handle that make it easy to both store and tote.
Best Picnic Blanket for Travel
Wekapo Compact Picnic Blanket
There is a clear distinction to be made between the Wekapo and all other extra large picnic blankets. Wekapo isn’t just extra large, it’s a behemoth of a beach blanket. Listed at 10 x 9 feet, it’s a whopping 30% larger than other picnic blankets on the market. Its 100% nylon material also means it’s super lightweight, easily compacted, and quick drying. Plus, it’s naturally machine washable, heat-resistant, sandproof, and water-resistant. The blanket even comes with four anchor pockets you can fill with sand and four stakes to prevent this gargantuan blanket from becoming a parachute on windy days. Wekapo even added triple stitching for maximum strength and durability, assuring you that this beach blanket really can work as a picnic blanket, beach mat, camping accessory, and sunshade.
Best Recycled Picnic Blanket
Benevolence LA Authentic Mexican Blanket
Looking for something a bit more traditional, something more along the lines of a stylish picnic blanket that doubles as a throw blanket? Well, you can certainly skip all the fuss and simplify with the Authentic Handwoven Mexican Blanket offered by Benevolence LA. It’s all about soft and stylish and nothing more. Unless you love products that give back and are made from recycled materials? These picnic blankets are woven by local artisans in Tlaxcala, Mexico, are made from 100% recycled materials, and allocate funds to a charity that fights against poverty and for water rights.
Most Stylish Picnic Blanket
MIU Color Large Waterproof Outdoor Picnic Mat
Keep things sweet and simple with a cute picnic blanket in a fun, pineapple print. The MIU Color Picnic Mat is a stylish, lightweight, compact, waterproof, and wipe-clean picnic mat. And it even folds out from the size of your wallet to an impressive 80 x 60 inches suitable for seating up to five adults. The simple design and ease of use make it perfect to carry along for a picnic, cover the seat in your car, take to the park, or even spread out at the beach. Plus, the cheery pineapple print is sure to bring a smile to your face, leaving you eager to plan the next picnic.
Best Heavy Duty Picnic Blanket
YETI Lowlands Waterproof Outdoor Blanket
When softness takes priority, you can’t go wrong with the YETI Lowland Waterproof Outdoor Blanket. Of course, you’ll pay for this luxury. But the price is worth it for a few reasons. This outdoor picnic blanket is so soft you could bring it home and throw it on your bed. The brilliant red color means it doubles as a super-cute blanket, and it won’t look like you threw a sleeping bag on your bed. Plus, by some miracle, it’s also waterproof, machine-washable, and resistant to pet dander! And this multiuse blanket is especially popular with outdoors folk for its unique soft-sided, zipper travel bag. The case makes it super-easy to protect and carry the blanket, whether it’s on the back of a motorcycle, attached to a backpack, or stuffed in the trunk.
Best Foldable Picnic Blanket
Zomake Extra-Large Foldable Picnic Blanket
Choose from imaginative patterns and environmentally friendly materials when you opt for Zomake. Just like many other picnic blankets, Zomake makes durable, three-layer, waterproof, easy-to-clean outdoor blankets. But they went the extra mile to source thoughtful materials to support hours of fun at the ballgame, park, beach, campground, and more. So what’s it made of? The ultra fuzzy top layer is imitation fleece, the middle cushion is sponge-made, and the bottom layer is PVC and aluminum foil. Moisture, sand, water, and other debris won’t stick to this mat. Just give it a shake or a light wipe, and it’s ready to pack again.
Best Waterproof Picnic Blanket
Isopho Extra-Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket
Why not opt for a dual-use picnic blanket? Isopho has certainly thought of that, coming out with an oversized, lightweight, multifunctional beach blanket that is also sandproof and water-resistant. So what can you do with it? Use it as a rain shelter, emergency mat, water-resistant tarp, ground cover, play mat, or just a good old picnic blanket. The Isopho Extra-Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket is made with a sturdy design with patented visibility technology, 210T polyester, a waterproof rating higher than an umbrella, and four fixed anchors. Plus, its size (79×83 inches) packs away easily inside its own bag to a size barely bigger than your cell phone and weighs less than a pound.
Best Picnic Blanket for Kids
JJ Cole Outdoor Blanket
Go compact with the JJ Cole Outdoor Blanket. Its standard size (5 x 5 feet) and smart design are intended for the park-savvy parent. But this winner is perfect for any style lover looking to spread out at the beach, in the backyard, or for a picnic. The light, packable, quick-fold design is made with durable and water-resistant materials, a wipe-clean interior, a sewn-in storage insert, and a detachable, adjustable shoulder strap. In short, it’s the perfect outdoor blanket for the park, especially for people with little ones.
Best Picnic Blanket for Camping
Pike Trail Compact Pocket Picnic Blanket
Have you ever heard of a pocket blanket? Although it sounds like an oxymoron, it’s actually not! A pocket blanket is an outdoor blanket designed to cinch down small enough to fit into your pocket. And Pike Trail has it down to a science, with a 100% rip-nylon design suitable for two adults that fits into a hand-size bag. But this isn’t just any picnic blanket. It caters to outdoor folk with waterproof, puncture-resistant nylon, corner pockets and loops, and even a carabiner clip. It’s ideal for everyday hiking or picnicking, survival situations, beach days, and even sporting events.
Best Budget Picnic Blanket
Yodo Outdoor Picnic Blanket
When a small, cheap picnic blanket will do, opt for the colorfully striped, versatile, padded, portable, and waterproof Yodo Outdoor Picnic Blanket. The standard size comes in at 59 x 53 inches, perfect for two or three adults. It’s easy to clean and ultra cushy with 2mm of center foam and laminated polar fleece. Yet it still remains relatively lightweight at just over a pound, plus it folds into an easy-to-carry compact tote. All of these features combined make it suitable for a wide variety of activities, including stadium settings, lawns, parks, or even the beach and campsites.
Best Picnic Blanket for the Park
Redcamp Extra-Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket
Saving the best for last? Maybe. At least if quality is of the highest importance to you. Redcamp proves that the best waterproof picnic blankets definitely don’t have to break the bank. It’s the thought that goes into a product and the guarantees that go behind them that really matter. Redcamp is serious about the claims it makes, and its extra-large picnic blanket, with its high-quality 60D Oxford material and waterproof PVC layer, is proof. Plus, the sturdy handle won’t rip, the extended velcro strip makes it super easy to fold up, and the reinforced edges add to its durability. And, to top it off, Redcamp picnic blankets come with a 365-day manufacturer warranty.
So there you have it, a list of distinct options, from compact to oversized, lightweight to plush, and black to cute patterns. We’re sure that among them you’ll find the perfect picnic blanket for you!
Comments