As summer approaches, more and more people will be catching up outside. And what’s a better way to get fresh air than to sprawl out on a picnic blanket with a great jarcuterie spread and a bottle of vino? Not much. You could get away with a beach towel or old sheet, but after months spent indoors, we’re ready to make dining al fresco an event. And naturally, that calls for the right backdrop. Read on for the 10 best picnic blankets for any scenario.
The 10 Best Picnic Blankets for Any Outdoor Adventure
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1. Benevolence Mexican Blanket
This beautifully handwoven Mexican Blanket by Benevolence LA is perfect for anyone looking for a picnic blanket that won’t break the bank. Not only is this find just under $20, it has more than 8,500 five-star reviews on Amazon and can be used for picnics, yoga, beach days or as a chic throw. Plus, it even gives back, since a portion of each purchase benefits Benevolence LA’s charity partners, who are dedicated to eradicating poverty worldwide.
2. Yeti Lowlands Blanket
Most Splurge-worthy
The Yeti Lowlands Blanket may be a bit more expensive than you imagined your next picnic blanket would be, but it’s so much more than a place to plop down and eat your lunch. It’s soft, padded, insulated and waterproof, making this all-terrain blanket durable and perfect for any event—from tailgates and concerts to camping and hiking.
3. Mark & Graham Waterproof Picnic Blanket
Best Waterproof Picnic Blanket
If you’re able to bump up your price range for a waterproof blanket that doesn’t fall short aesthetically, the gorgeous Waterproof Picnic Blanket from Mark and Graham is calling your name. The top layer is a soft wool blend that comes in two different gingham colorways, as well as a navy herringbone pattern with fringed edging. Underneath is a waterproof layer so you don’t have to worry about ruining it by laying it out on dewy grass.
Oh, and if that’s not enough, you can also have it monogrammed.
4. Picniking Picnic Blanket
Best Waterproof Blanket Under $35
Similar in look to the waterproof gingham blanket above, the PicniKing Picnic Blanket gives you that same level of water protection for roughly $30. Designed with three layers (including a spong foam layer and a polar fleece outer layer), the slick waterproof bottom doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. This layered design also makes for easy cleanup of any spills—you can just toss it in the washing machine.
5. Cgear Sandlite Beach Mat
Best for the Beach
Sure, any blanket could be a beach blanket if you want it to be, but the CGear Sandlite Beach Mat is a game changer. The clever (and patented) two-layer design was created to only allow sand to travel one way through the fabric: down, giving you a virtually sand-free experience. Should sand work its way onto the mat from the sides (not through the fabric), a simple swipe of your hand will send it right back where you want it, since the blanket is designed to pull down any dirt or sand that may sneak onto the surface.
6. Pratico All-purpose Blanket
Best for Game Day/Best Multi-Purpose Picnic Blanket
Sports fans or parents, picnicking outside of ball games is always fun, but with the Pratico All-Purpose Blanket, it’s a total win (no matter the weather). The reinforced polyester and nylon design on one side makes it weather-resistant to withstand the elements, while the polar fleece lining retains heat to keep you warm. It’s great for using as a picnic blanket, wrap or makeshift poncho, making it a versatile pick for whatever the day brings.
7. Matador Pocket Blanket
Most Compact Picnic Blanket
Hauling everything you need for a picnic can be cumbersome, which is why we love the Matador Pocket Blanket. It folds up small enough to fit in your pocket when stowed away in its pouch. It may not have the best padding, given its foldable nature, but it is ridiculously portable. It’s a trade-off, but if you’re always on the go—and like to be prepared for anything—it could be well worth it.
8. Vonshef Picnic Blanket
Best Bargain
Just when you think finding a comfy, chic and durable blanket for under $25 is hopeless, the VonShef Picnic Blanket proves you wrong—and we’re not mad about it. Not only is the rustic herringbone pattern and faux leather carrier adorable, but the low price even gets you a waterproof PEVA lining, so sitting on damp ground won’t disrupt your al fresco dining.
9. L.l. Bean Waterproof Outdoor Blanket
Most Comfortable Picnic Blanket
It’s no surprise that L.L.Bean’s Waterproof Outdoor Blanket is taking the cake for comfort. After all, of course the brand known for its fleeces and sherpas would make the coziest fleece picnic blanket. Made of 100 percent (plaid) polyester fleece on top and 100 percent nylon on the bottom, it’s safe to say L.L. committed 100 percent to making this outdoor throw equal parts durable and comfy.
10. Portableand Blanket
Best Overall
Narrowing down from this list of incredible picnic blankets can be difficult, but if you’re looking for the best value, you’ll want to consider the PortableAnd Blanket. Featuring three layers of cushioning—waterproof PEVA backing, soft sponge and fleece on top—this picnic blanket gives you the best of all worlds: budget, comfort, waterproofing and style.