7 best picnic blankets to buy in Australia 2023

Picnics are a perfect, casual way to catch up with family and friends, so it might be time to grab a few key essentials for your next outing.

Marina Tatas and Philippa Tonkin

4 min read

September 1, 2023 - 3:43PM

Every picnic needs a good quality picnic blanket. Picture: iStock.

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When it comes to going on a picnic, there are a few essentials that you simply cannot forget. A good quality picnic basket, delicious food, a casual outfit, and of course, a comfortable picnic blanket.

Shopping around for a new one? We’ve scoured the web to find all the best picnic blankets and rugs you can add to your shopping cart.

BEST PICNIC BLANKETS AND RUGS

Picture perfect

Sunnylife Wash Me Beach & Picnic Blanket, $99.99

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

If you’re enjoying the great outdoors, don’t skimp on a good-quality rug that’s comfortable for your family and friends to sit on. Bonus points if it looks cute – and this one from Sunnylife ticks that box.

We love that it comes with a removable carry handle and is washable. But we particularly love how pretty it looks, especially if you’re planning on taking some photos on your picnic adventure.

On sale

Chyka Home Picnic Blanket, $29.99, Harris Scarfe

WHAT SHOULD YOU KNOW

This cute rug from Harris Scarfe is made of comfortable cotton on the top and hardwearing polyethene on the back. It has a light foam filling and packs up neatly into a flat shape to make it easy to transport and store.

Down Under Outdoors Picnic Rug, $52.99

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

This picnic blanket is thicker than the usual rug making it super comfortable. It also features a special double coating sprayed in between the two layers for extra waterproofing. A secret pocket for your keys and other personal items is another reason why this blanket tops the list.

WHAT REVIEWS SAY

With more than 2,200 reviews and an average rating of 4.7 out of five, this Outdoor Picnic Rug from Amazon is one to check out. One reviewer said, “the quality is fantastic, it is very convenient and very easy to fold back”.

Another five-star review raves about the blanket saying, “The quality is fantastic. It is very convenient and very easy to fold back. And most importantly, it is machine-washable, because who wants a picnic blanket you can’t wash?”

Simpeak Large Picnic Mat, from $29.98 (down from $33)

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

If you’re looking for something affordable, you can’t go wrong with this pick. It’s padded with three layers so it’s comfortable enough to sit on, but it’s also lightweight to make it easy to carry around. It is 1.5 x two metres wide so it’s big enough for around four to six people.

WHAT REVIEWS SAY

The Simpeak Picnic Mat has racked up an average rating of 4.6 out of five, with one reviewer stating it has a “good quality feel to it, large and easy to fold and carry away.”

Another five-star review says, “It is a perfect size for lazing in the sun, with space for your items alongside you. Top material looks good and is comfortable. Waterproof backing works well on damp grass.”

SONGMICS Outdoor Picnic Blanket, $46.08

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

When it comes to portable and convenient picnic blankets, this one from Amazon takes the cake. The blanket folds into itself and the handles transform into a bag with a shoulder strap.

It’s lightweight and easy to clean, and also comes in a variety of fun colours and prints.

WHAT REVIEWS SAY

From 260 reviews on Amazon, this product is currently sitting at 4.6 stars. Customers love the functionality of the rug with one five-star reviewer noting, “Bought this as it’s the only fold-away blanket I could find that’s machine washable.”

Others love the size as well as the waterproof feature.

The Somewhere Co Golden Girl Picnic Rug, $112

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

This blanket screams good times. Featuring a bright colourful print, it is sure to be a fun afternoon when this one is brought out. It’s made from recycled polyester but still comes with all the necessary picnic blanket features. This includes a water-resistant side, and a built-in carry case secured with velcro.

WHAT REVIEWS SAY

One five-star review on adventuresnacks.com.au says, “I really love the easy carry handle/strap. Well made and the design is very cute. The only downfall is that it’s spot clean only.” But, if you don’t have young children (or a clumsy friend) then you should be good to go.

“Chic style, soft, comfortable and easy to roll out and roll up!” says another five-star review on The Somewhere Co website.

HulaFish Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket, $101.65

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

This bright blanket is sure to look good in any setting whether in the park, the beach, or simply in your own backyard. The rug is made from three layers for extra cushioning while the bottom layer is PEVA material lined to protect from the ground below. It folds up super easily and the strap allows you to carry it around with ease.

WHAT REVIEWS SAY

From 483 reviews, this blanket is currently at 4.7 stars. Customers love the functionality of this blanket with one five-star review saying, “it was perfect for a picnic on the beach. The straps remove for easy washing and then the whole thing rolls back up for storage.”

WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A PICNIC BLANKET?

When choosing a picnic blanket, there are a few factors we recommend keeping at front of mind.

Firstly, make sure it’s a good size. In reality, the bigger the better – because there’s nothing worse than not having enough room to sit and enjoy your food.

Next up, we recommend looking for one with a waterproof backing. It’s easier to clean, especially when you’re placing the rug on all sorts of grounds.

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Lastly, it should be convenient to carry. Nowadays, so many blankets on the market come with in-built handles, so you can easily roll it up and carry it on your next picnic adventure.

If you’re looking for more picnic essentials, don’t forget to check out our guides on the best picnic baskets and the hottest picnic outfits.

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