If you’re planning an outdoor lunch in the park or a romantic beach dinner, the best picnic blankets are a must-have to elevate your experience. Not only are these outdoor blankets comfortable and cute, but most are highly functional, helping to keep you dry on wet grass and cushioned on uneven terrain.
The Business And Pleasure Co Beach Blanket is ideal for two people, and the best part is that ... [+] there’s a convenient hold in the middle of the blanket, allowing you to set up an umbrella over it.
Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailers
As you shop for a picnic blanket to use this summer, it’s important to find one that’s large enough to accommodate all your guests and supplies: “You want it to be large enough to cover a lot of ground and have space for food, people, music speakers and a cooler,” says Renee Patrone Rhinehart, professional party planner and the founder of Party Host Helpers. She recommends looking for a blanket that measures at least 80 x 57 inches.
Portability is another key factor to keep in mind as you compare different products. “Since most picnic blankets are carried into a park or beach, you'll want something that doesn't add to your load,” says Michelle Ison, founder and CEO of Picnic & Peonies, a luxury picnic company. “With that in mind, you'll want a picnic blanket that doesn't take up a ton of space, so it can fit in your trunk for impromptu picnic parties.” Some picnic blankets come with a carrying case or straps that make them easier to transport to and from your destination.
With these considerations in mind, here are the best picnic blankets for all your summertime outings.
An Extra-Large Blanket Packed With Useful Features
MOST POPULAR
Nemo
Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket
Dimensions: 114 x 114 inches | Material: Acrylic, PU Foam, EVA | Machine washable: No | Waterproof: Yes | Case included: Yes
The Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket has all the features you need for a comfortable outdoor dining experience. This oversized blanket comes in two sizes—the XL version is a 95-inch square and the XXL is a 114-inch square—and either option will provide plenty of room for all your guests and supplies. The blanket has a waterproof bottom and soft flannel top, and the colorful striped design will look beautiful in all the photos you snap during your picnic.
However, this blanket isn’t just pretty—it’s highly functional, too. It has a loop at each corner that you can stake down on windy days, and there’s even a built-in mesh pocket to hold your keys and other valuables. The blanket is equipped with straps that allow you to roll it up for easy transport, and it’s backed by the brand’s lifetime warranty, as well. The only downside is that this blanket isn’t machine-washable and should be spot-cleaned only.
Pros:
Available in two large sizes
Waterproof bottom layer protects against wet grass
You won’t have to worry about morning dew ruining your picnic when you have the L.L. Bean Outdoor Blanket in your trunk. This soft fleece blanket has an extra-large design that provides more than enough space for two or more people, and its thick waterproof backing will keep you dry, even when the ground is wet.
The brand offers this blanket in a few different colors and patterns, and it comes with a stuff sack that makes it easier to carry around and store when it’s not in use. Because the front side is a soft fleece material, it can also be used as a blanket for sporting events or while camping, As an added bonus, it can be machine washed and dried for easy maintenance.
Pros:
Fully waterproof backing won’t let water through
Can be used as a blanket for sporting events or camping
Machine wash and dry
Cons:
Can be tricky to pack into carrying sack
Best Pocket Picnic Blanket
A Compact Blanket To Take On The Go
Amazon
Matador Pocket Blanket
Dimensions: 63 x 44 inches | Material: Polyurethane-coated nylon | Machine washable: No | Waterproof: No | Case included: Yes
The Matador Pocket Blanket is one of the most compact picnic blankets out there, making it the perfect option to take on long hikes. When it’s unfolded, the blanket measures 63 x 44 inches, but it folds down into a 4.5 x 2.7 inch form, complete with a handy storage pouch. There’s even handy guide lines right on the blanket that show you how to properly fold it up.
The Matador Blanket is made from puncture-resistant polyurethane-coated nylon, and it is a bit thinner than other picnic blankets, so it won’t necessarily cushion the ground for you. However, it has handy built-in stakes on the corners to keep it secured, and the material is water-resistant to help keep you dry on your outing.
Pros:
Folds down into an extremely compact size
Built-in stakes to hold down the corners
Easy-pack pattern shows you how to fold it up
Cons:
Thinner material than other blankets
Best Large Picnic Blanket
A Machine-Washable Option For The Whole Family
Big Blanket Сo
Big Blanket XL Outdoorsy Blanket
Dimensions: 96 x 96 inches | Material: Polyester | Machine washable: Yes | Waterproof: No | Case included: Yes
As the brand’s name suggests, the Big Blanket XL Outdoorsy Blanket is, in fact, quite big. This oversized outdoor blanket is an 8-foot square, providing plenty of space for your whole family to spread out. It’s made from a puffy polyester material, and it’s water-resistant and quick-drying, just in case you get caught out in inclement weather.
The Outdoorsy Blanket comes in a variety of double-sided colors, as well as some limited-edition patterns, and despite its large size, it can be machine washed and dried in standard washing machines. It comes with a carrying sack for storage and transport, and it’s lightweight enough to bring on any outdoor excursion this summer.
Pros:
Oversized form is perfect for several people
Available in several bright colors
Machine wash and dry for easy care
Cons:
Polyester construction isn’t waterproof
Best Beach Picnic Blanket
A Stylish Cotton Blanket Designed For The Beach
Business & Pleasure Co
Business And Pleasure Co Beach Blanket
Dimensions: 68 x 68 inches | Material: Cotton | Machine washable: Yes | Waterproof: No | Case included: Yes
Most picnic blankets can be used on the beach, but the Business And Pleasure Co Beach Blanket has a few added features that make it particularly well-suited for ocean-front dining. It’s made from 100% cotton for a soft sitting experience, and it’s available in a variety of stylish colors and patterns. The blanket is a 68-inch square, which is ideal for two people, and the best part is that there’s a convenient hold in the middle of the blanket, allowing you to set up an umbrella over it. The cotton construction is fast-drying and machine-washable, and the blanket comes with a handy carrying strap so you can sling it over your shoulder on your walk home.
Pros:
Wide variety of stylish colors and patterns
Convenient hole for beach umbrella
Machine wash and dry
Cons:
Only big enough for one or two people
Best Thick Picnic Blanket
An Extra-Durable Outdoor Blanket That’s Worth The Splurge
Amazon
YETI Lowlands Blanket
Dimensions: 78 x 55 inches | Material: Polyester, rayon | Machine washable: Yes | Waterproof: Yes | Case included: Yes
If you’re willing to spend a little extra on a durable outdoor product, the YETI Lowlands Blanket is a versatile addition to your stash of summer supplies. The blanket comes in five different colors, and it’s fully waterproof and generously padded, making it more comfortable to lounge on rough terrain. It’s also perfect for picnics with your pets, as the durable material repels dirt and pet hair and won’t rip under their nails.
The Lowlands Blanket has loops on the corners, allowing you to stake it down, and it comes with a handy carrying case, as well. After your adventures, it can be tossed in the washing machine for easy cleaning, and its durable construction will last you for years to come.
Pros:
Thick padded construction for comfort
Repels dirt and pet hair
Corner loops can be staked down
Cons:
Fairly expensive, especially for its size
Best Picnic Blanket For Families
A Large Gingham Blanket That’s Easy To Keep Clean
Amazon
Zaze Extra Large Picnic Outdoor Blanket
Dimensions: 80 x 80 inches | Material: Polyester, cotton | Machine washable: Yes | Waterproof: Yes | Case included: Yes
The Zaze Picnic Blanket is an 80-inch square, providing plenty of room for your whole family to spread out in the park or on the beach. Despite its oversized form, this picnic blanket is very budget-friendly. Plus, the classic gingham pattern is available in several pretty colors to choose from. The blanket has a three-layer construction that offers plenty of cushioning against hard ground, and there are built-in straps for easy transport.
If your family spills on this picnic blanket, the liquid will bead up on the polyester surface, allowing you to easily wipe it off. The blanket is also machine-washable, making it easy to clean after each picnic.
Pros:
Affordable price point
Large size can accommodate several people
Stain-resistant and machine-washable for easy care
Cons:
Water can seep through fabric
Best Packable Picnic Blanket
A Waterproof Blanket That’s Easy To Transport
Amazon
Michael Josh Extra Large Picnic Blanket
Dimensions: 79 x 79 inches | Material: Polyester fleece, EVA | Machine washable: No | Waterproof: Yes | Case included: Yes
Instead of carrying around an unwieldy quilt for your picnics, you can simply bring the Michael Josh Outdoor Blanket, which folds up into a compact form complete with a carrying handle. It’s ideal for stashing in your trunk for outdoor outings with the family, and its 79-inch square form is big enough for several people to sit on comfortably.
This blanket is fully waterproof, providing a layer of protection against wet grass, and the top is a soft polyester fleece. The material resists stains, making it easier to keep clean, and dirt and sand can simply be shaken off the surface when you’re done picnicking.
Pros:
Large size is ideal for several people
Waterproof and stain-resistant
Packs up into a compact form with carrying handle
Cons:
Not machine washable
Best Stylish Picnic Blanket
A Beautiful Cotton Rug That Will Look Amazing In Photographs
Isla In Bloom
Isla In Bloom Indie Picnic Rug
Dimensions: 75 x 63 inches | Material: Cotton | Machine washable: Yes, but air dry only | Waterproof: No | Case included: No
If you’re planning a picnic for an event like an engagement or bridal shower, the Indie Picnic Rug will make a gorgeous backdrop for the special moment. The brand offers a variety of bohemian-inspired picnic blankets, all of which are made from 100% cotton and feature bold colors and intricate patterns. The XL blanket is 75 x 63 inches, and it even has delicate fringe around all four edges.
While it’s undeniably beautiful, this picnic rug isn’t as durable as other options, so it may not be the best option for frequent outdoor use. It's not water-resistant, and hand washing is recommended.
Pros:
Comes in a variety of stylish designs
Feature vibrant colors and intricate patterns
Soft cotton fabric can be used indoors or outside
Cons:
Not the most durable option
Best Picnic Blanket on Amazon
A Low-Priced Option That’s A Best-Seller On Amazon
Amazon
Scuddles Picnic Blanket
Dimensions: 75 x 60 inches | Material: Acrylic, PEVA | Machine washable: No | Waterproof: Yes | Case included: Yes
Need a picnic blanket fast? The Scuddles Picnic Blanket is a best-seller on Amazon, and it’s available for two-day shipping if you have a Prime membership. This highly rated blanket is made from acrylic with a waterproof PEVA backing, and it has an attractive striped pattern that will be a pretty backdrop for your event.
This blanket is on the smaller side, measuring 75 x 60 inches, but it’s still big enough for two people to sit comfortably. It folds up into a compact form with a carrying handle, allowing you to grab it and go, but keep in mind that it’s not machine-washable, so you will have to hand-wash any stains.
One of the main factors to consider when shopping for a picnic blanket is its size. If you’re just planning a two-person picnic, a smaller blanket will be fine, but larger gatherings will need a larger seating area—or even multiple blankets. “The average size of a traditional picnic blanket is 50 x 60 inches, which is also the same size as your standard throw blanket,” explains Ison. “While 50 x 60 inches accommodates two people comfortably, we typically like to layer several of these standard-sized blankets to create snuggly lounge areas.”
“Depending on the size of your group, you may want a larger picnic blanket from the jump,” she says. “If this is the case, we suggest a 90 x 90 inch lightweight blanket or quilt, which accommodates five or six people at once.”
Material
Outdoor blankets can be made from a variety of different fabrics, and the best option for your needs depends on how you plan to use it. “The best material for a picnic blanket is situational,” explains Ison. “If you are traveling to the beach or planning on picnicking somewhere that's not the cleanest, polyester is the way to go. It'll be easy to clean off and pack up for your next adventure.”
She notes that cotton blankets are often softer, more aesthetically pleasing and they can generally be machine-washed for easy care. Other options you may see are acrylic, which is a warm material, and EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate), which is often used as a waterproof barrier.
Portability
If you’re planning a picnic in a remote location, it’s important to select a blanket that’s easy to carry. “Having a blanket that rolls up nicely and has a strap to secure it makes it super easy for travel and set up/breakdown,” recommends Rhinehart. “I also like ones that fold up into a small bag.”
Care Instructions
There’s always a chance your picnic blanket will get stained by spills or even dirt, so you’ll want to consider its care instructions before you buy. Many blankets are machine-washable, making them easy to clean after use, but some may be spot-clean or hand-wash only. This can make maintenance a bit more cumbersome and inconvenient, especially if you use the blanket frequently.
What Is The Ideal Size For A Picnic Blanket?
The best size for a picnic blanket will depend on how many people you need to seat. For a two-person picnic, a 50 x 60 inch blanket will work, but you may want to look for a larger option if you’re planning to bring a picnic basket, cooler or even music speaker.
For a picnic with several people, a larger blanket (or multiple blankets) is needed. Ison recommends at least a 90-inch blanket for a party of five or six people—in this case, the Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket, which comes in 95- or 114-inch options, will provide plenty of space for your group.
What Is The Best Material For A Picnic Blanket?
If you’re looking for an aesthetically pleasing picnic blanket, cotton is the way to go. “Our favorite material for a picnic blanket is cotton,” says Ison. “Cotton picnic blankets are the cozier and better-looking option, but you have to be mindful of the colors you choose. For example, white blankets will easily show stains, whereas colorful prints will hide them.”
However, synthetic materials are typically a better choice for heavy use, as they’re more durable and generally resist stains. If you want a waterproof blanket, you’ll likely need one that uses EVA as a barrier against moisture.
Should Picnic Blankets Be Machine Washable?
Some picnic blankets, such as the L.L. Bean Outdoor Blanket, are machine washable, while others, like the Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket, are not. The main benefit of a machine-washable blanket is that you can simply toss it into your washing machine after use to remove dirt, dust, allergens and stains. This is especially handy if you have children or pets who tend to make a mess on the blanket. However, if your blanket doesn’t generally get too dirty, you may not mind having to spot clean it from time to time.
