travel picnic blanket review

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• Outdoor gear

The Best Picnic Blanket

By Kit Dillon and Dorie Chevlen

Staging a picnic requires little more than the union of a blanket and a patch of grass. Yet, when combined, those humble elements can elevate a mundane meal to an alfresco fete.

Not all picnic blankets are equal, though: We considered 55 and tested 19 before choosing the Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket as our favorite.

Everything we recommend

Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket

Comfortable and easy to carry.

Our favorite picnic blanket travels easily, feels comfortable to sit on, and holds up to wear and tear. It has, however, increased in price as well as size over the past few years.

Buying Options

Budget pick.

Moosejaw Carpet Diem Outdoor Blanket

Durable and soft.

Less than a third of the price of our top pick, this blanket packs a soft-enough top and a durable bottom, but it has neither padding nor stake loops.

May be out of stock

Upgrade pick

Yeti Lowlands Blanket

The softest, toughest blanket.

This plush-on-top, sturdy-on-the-bottom blanket was the most luxurious and sturdy of all those we tested, and it is the only one that you can machine wash and dry, but it has an eye-popping price tag to match.

Rumpl Everywhere Mat

The most compact blanket.

Available in dozens of colorful prints, this was the most compact of any blankets we tested, folding down small enough to fit in a purse. But it lacks padding and fits fewer picnickers.

Its soft flannel is comfortable to sit on, the waterproof underlining keeps you dry, integrated straps help you transport it easily, and the colorful stripes make your picnic feel like an Impressionist masterpiece .

The four-person, 95-by-95-inch Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket offers the best combination of durability and comfort, thanks to a layer of foam padding and a waterproof bottom. It’s portable too: Rolled up, the Victory Picnic Blanket is just a 16-inch-long cylinder that’s 8 inches in diameter. (It has gotten bigger and become more expensive since we first tested it, though.)

The acrylic flannel top doesn’t trap dirt as some other blankets do, and it also comes in an even larger size—120 by 120 inches, good for roughly seven or eight people—so you can choose the one that best suits your picnic needs. Grommets on the corners let you stake down the blanket in windy weather.

The inexpensive Moosejaw Carpet Diem Outdoor Blanket felt very soft yet didn’t cause overheating. Much to our surprise, crumbs shook off its surface easily, and for larger spills, it can be machine washed, unlike our top pick. The nylon straps are adjustable, so even if you roll the blanket loosely you can still buckle it into a burrito shape (which is easier to do compared with the precise folding demanded by the Yeti Lowlands Blanket or the Rumpl Everywhere Mat).

This Moosejaw blanket doesn’t take up a lot of space when it’s rolled up (and you don’t have to put it face down to roll it); though it’s not as compact as our pick from Rumpl. It lacks the padding of our top and upgrade picks, though, as well as the stake loops.

The Yeti Lowlands Blanket was easily the softest blanket we tested—so soft, we could use it on our bed and sleep soundly. And not only is its sturdy underside waterproof, but its top is spill resistant, too, causing liquid to bead up on the surface but not sink in. Even if it does somehow catch a mess, it can tolerate machine washing and drying—it’s one of the few blankets we tested that can withstand both.

Still, it’s awfully pricey, and with our other picks being nearly as comfortable and durable, it isn’t a worthwhile investment for anyone but the most devoted picnic (or Yeti) enthusiasts.

The Rumpl Everywhere Mat was by far the most portable blanket we tested: It folds down to the size of a paperback novel (about 5 by 11 by 2.5 inches) and is contained by an attached carrying case. But it’s very soft, thanks to a polyester microsuede top, and has thoughtful details like stake loops and a little corner pouch. It comes with a 100-day trial policy—so if you decide it doesn’t meet your needs, you can return it.

This blanket lacks the padding of our top pick and upgrade pick, and it’s pricier than our budget pick. But if you’re someone who likes to always have a picnic blanket on hand, this one offers a great combination of comfort and compactness.

The research

How we picked and tested, our pick: nemo victory picnic blanket, budget pick: moosejaw carpet diem outdoor blanket, upgrade pick: yeti lowlands blanket, also great: rumpl everywhere mat, other good picnic blankets, the competition.

A good picnic blanket should offer several diametrically opposed features:

• It must be large enough to fit a few people and several food items yet pack down small enough for transportation and storage.
• It must be soft enough for a baby to lie on but durable enough to withstand dog paws and errant twigs.
• It should be thick and comfortable to sit on but also water resistant and easy to clean.
• And it must, above all, be utilitarian but still cute. Remember, a picnic is usually a public experience and, for many people, an occasion for beauty.

We kept all of those aspects in mind while selecting our blankets and testing them, as well as the following:

Portability and storage: We looked for blankets that came with attached straps or a separate sack to keep the blanket compactly folded or rolled. We preferred blankets that came with elastic loops, as they usually didn’t have to be folded as precisely as those with Velcro straps or those that had to be shoved into sacks—sacks that, we should add, invariably get lost.

Water resistance: Most blankets without some kind of moisture barrier pull dampness up from the ground like a sponge, especially if you’re lying on them for a few hours (and every good picnic should last at least that long). We tested only those blankets claiming to have water-resistant or waterproof backing.

For an earlier version of this guide, which senior staff writer Kit Dillon wrote, we placed all the blankets on a recently watered lawn in the shade and lay on each one for roughly 10 minutes. We then put a 45-pound plate weight on each blanket and inspected the weighted spot after 20 minutes for dampness.

For the 2020 to 2023 updates of this guide, which staff writer Dorie Chevlen wrote, we had two adults sit on blankets atop grass for one hour. We also poured water on the underside of each blanket to see if it would leak through to the surface. Thankfully for us and the comfort of our afternoons, none of the blankets we tested let any moisture through.

Durability: We looked for blankets that we thought would last. Amazon has plenty of $15 picnic blankets, but they didn’t look like they’d stand up to much wear and tear.

Price: We focused our initial testing on blankets that cost about $20 to $70. This seemed like a reasonable price range for a durable blanket that wouldn’t fall apart after just a season of use. In later testing, we included pricier options as well.

The two-person version of the Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket was our favorite picnic blanket for several years, thanks to its combination of comfort, durability, compactness, and affordability. Nemo replaced the two-person size with the Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket —it’s 95 by 95 inches, and it fits four people with room for food or other items—which is now our current pick. Here’s why.

It’s comfortable. Its acrylic flannel top is soft enough to let you comfortably nap in the sun and gentle enough for the delicate skin of infants or children. The top isn’t quite as soft as the polyester-rayon blend of our upgrade pick, the Yeti Lowlands Blanket , but considering that it costs about 25% less and is over twice the size of that blanket, this disparity wasn’t enough to bump it from its throne. The blanket’s ample padding blocks most of the sticks and twigs underneath you, and the waterproof polyurethane underlayer keeps moisture from seeping through.

It’s easy to clean and keep clean. The Victory Picnic Blanket’s acrylic flannel made it less prone than fleece blankets to trapping particles of food, grime, and dirt, which is important given that a picnic by definition involves food, grime, and dirt. The blanket is not technically machine washable, though one Wirecutter staffer has tossed it into their washing machine anyway without consequence. Still, we easily wiped mud and dirt off the flannel with a damp cloth without leaving a mark.

It’s big enough for the whole gang. At roughly 95 by 95 inches according to our measurements, the four-person Victory Picnic Blanket is bigger than most blankets we looked at, so it’s well suited for larger groups of people or two people who want to fit a lot of board games and snacks. For those who really need extra space, it’s also available in a truly mammoth XXL version (120 by 120 inches) that should accommodate at least seven people.

It includes some thoughtful details. Unlike most blankets we tested, the Victory Picnic Blanket also includes corner loops to stake it into the ground on windy days (though not the stakes themselves; we recommend this inexpensive set ). Both sizes come with two adjustable, clasping straps that keep the blanket rolled up tight, and those clasps can also perform double duty as bottle openers. They each also have a little pocket for stashing small items.

How the Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket has held up

Unlike cheaper, less durable options, our pick should withstand people’s walking, rolling, and jumping across it from time to time. Several Wirecutter staffers own the Victory Picnic Blanket, and all say that even after years of use, it’s holding up well.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• In theory, the Victory Picnic Blanket is simple to fold up; in the earlier version of this guide, Kit specifically praised the blanket for this. Maybe Kit is more adept at folding than Dorie—and he is, without a doubt, taller than she is, which may have helped—because in practice, Dorie had to try two configurations before landing on one that worked well. Unfortunately, unless two people work together to fold the thing, you’ll have to place it face down on the grass to line it up correctly.
• Another drawback is that it comes in only one pattern at a time; our photos show the current blue, yellow, and red striped design, as well as a previous season’s Southwestern-inspired stripes and brown, green, and white plaid.
• Along with the increase in size came an increase in price; when we first tested it for this guide in 2016, the original two-person version cost about $50—a third of what it costs now.

For the casual picnicker, the Moosejaw Carpet Diem Outdoor Blanket is a good marriage of luxury and value. It’s soft—softer than the Rumpl Everywhere Mat, but not quite as soft as the Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket or the Yeti Lowlands Blanket. It rolls up into a unit about the size of a plush paper towel roll, smaller than our picks from Nemo or Yeti, but it’s less compact than our budget pick from Rumpl. And it’s cheaper than all our other picks. This makes it just right for the person who doesn’t plan to trek far with their blanket or isn’t ready yet to invest in something big or pricey.

The Carpet Diem Outdoor Blanket’s synthetic fleece top is soft but doesn’t cause overheating, and much to our surprise, crumbs shook off its surface easily. The nylon straps are adjustable, so even if you roll the blanket loosely you can still buckle it into a burrito shape (which is easy compared with the precise folding demanded by our picks from Yeti or Rumpl ). The buckle itself is pretty tight to get onto that nylon strap (we had to wiggle it around and push for a bit before we could secure it), but after a few uses it became easier to slide. This Moosejaw blanket doesn’t take up much space when it’s rolled tightly; it makes a cylinder about 15 inches long and 7 inches in diameter. And laid out, it’s about 72 by 55 inches—smaller than the Yeti Lowlands Blanket and the Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket , but larger than the Rumpl Everywhere Mat.

We wish it came with stake loops like our other picks—on a windy day, its corners will fly up unless you have them weighted by people or detritus. But we do appreciate that the blanket comes with a built-in bottle opener in its clasp (similar to the Nemo blanket). It’s machine washable (but not dryable) and usually available in three patterns.

The Yeti Lowlands Blanket was easily the softest blanket we tested—so soft, we could use it on our bed and sleep soundly. And not only is its sturdy underside waterproof, but its top is spill resistant, too, prompting liquid to bead up on the surface but not sink in. Still, the Lowlands Blanket is pricey, and with our other picks being nearly as comfortable and durable, it isn’t a worthwhile investment for anyone but the most dedicated picnic (or Yeti) enthusiasts.

Like the Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket , the Yeti Lowlands Blanket has stake loops so you can tack it down on especially windy days, though if your picnic is adequately loaded with snacks, those can work well as an anchor, too—which is good, because stakes do not come with the blanket. And it has plush padding that softens the poking of twigs or rocks below.

Also setting the Lowlands Blanket apart is its washability; unlike most of the other blankets we tested, it can tolerate machine washing and machine drying. Still, that probably won’t be necessary, thanks to its wipeable surface, unless you drag it through mud.

The only less-than-ideal aspect of the Yeti blanket is its transportability. Unlike our pick from Nemo, which has integrated straps to keep it rolled up, the Yeti blanket comes with only a zip-up carrying case. You have to fold the blanket precisely to fit it inside (once you’ve gotten it in there, it measures 19 by 9 by 5 inches), and cases are liable to get lost.

The Rumpl Everywhere Mat is the best blanket for someone devoted to the spontaneous picnic life, who needs to always have a blanket on hand. It’s so compact when folded down (just 5 by 11 by 2.5 inches, smaller than a hardback novel) that you can store it in a backpack, bike pannier, or even a large cargo pant pocket. Still, despite its puny size, it’s a tough item. A ripstop polyester bottom keeps it dry against damp grass while still avoiding any scratches from twigs and pebbles. And its top is treated with a water-resistant sealant that repels stains.

Folding the blanket into its attached carrying sleeve does require more focus than the simple fold-and-roll system of the Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket or the Moosejaw Carpet Diem Outdoor Blanket , and doing it solo on a windy day can prove frustrating. Speaking of wind: We are particularly grateful to stake loops; the blanket’s lightweight construction paired with the fact that it may end up being a picnic blanket for solo use makes it all the easier to fly up with a strong gust. Like all our picks, the blanket doesn’t come with stakes included; we recommend these inexpensive ones .

Rolled out, the Rumpl Everywhere Mat measures 52 by 75 inches—enough for two people to sit cozily with their legs out or four sitting with crossed legs. It is, however, the smallest of our picks, and it lacks padding. It’s available in several colorful prints and patterns, most of which are more interesting looking than those offered by our other picks. The Everywhere Mat is covered by the same 100-day guarantee as the Rumpl Down Puffy, our favorite puffy blanket .

If you value toughness and affordability over comfort: Consider the 80-by-60-inch MIU Color Outdoor Picnic Blanket , which is the easiest we’ve found to clean. Its polyester fabric feels similar to what you might find on outdoor lawn furniture—not soft, exactly, and it doesn’t feel like a traditional picnic blanket, but it will definitely last. And it folds up small enough (just 12.5 by 7.5 inches) to fit in a tote bag or backpack. (We also tried a nearly identical blanket, the Angemay Outdoor & Picnic Blanket , that performed the same but cost a few dollars more. The prices of each blanket have since fluctuated, so now we would recommend getting whichever one costs less or comes in a pattern you prefer.)

If you want something plush and you have the patience for very precise storage: Look into the Little Unicorn Outdoor Blanket , which was the softest of the blankets we tested besides our upgrade pick from Yeti. The light padding made it feel luxurious. Crumbs didn’t stick to its smooth top material, and spilled drinks just pooled at the surface without sinking through, so wiping it down was really easy. The only problem we had with the blanket was storage: It is heavy, and carefully folding it into its Velcro-secured tote bag proved difficult to do solo, since the Velcro needs to be perfectly aligned. Still, with three sizing options (60 by 60 inches, 60 by 84 inches, and 60 by 120 inches), it may be just what you need, and it costs less than the Nemo or Yeti blankets despite being around the same size at its largest.

Crumbs and grass stuck easily to the polyester fleece of the Picnic Time Blanket Tote Outdoor Picnic Blanket (which, confusingly, is also sold under the Oniva brand name) and were hard to brush off. Folded up, the blanket still takes a lot of space (18 by 11 by 5 inches), and you have to fold it precisely or the elastic unravels.

After just one use, the handle of the August Grove Beach Mat Picnic Blanket started to fray, which made us worry about its long-term durability.

The Mambe Essential All Season Blanket doesn’t come with a roll-up sleeve or a built-in way to keep it secured when it’s folded. Walking on it seemed oddly treacherous, like walking on a freshly waxed wood floor in cashmere socks. The fleece felt cheap, too.

The L.L.Bean Waterproof Outdoor Blanket isn’t as easy to roll or fold as our picks, and it doesn’t have integrated straps for carrying. Instead, it comes with a stuff sack, which can be easily misplaced.

The REI Co-op Outdoor Blanket can’t roll up into a sleeve or fold into a tote for easy carrying, and it was smaller than many of the other blankets we looked at. (It’s also currently unavailable.)

We considered the Pendleton Roll-Up Blanket because it’s wool (with a nylon backing) and used to come with a lifetime warranty. (We now see no mention of such a warranty—or any warranty—anywhere on the Pendleton website.) Unfortunately, it’s one of the pricier blankets we looked at, and it will continue to cost you even more: This thing is dry-clean only.

Like the totes we recommend, the Baggu Puffy Picnic Blanket is made from soft polyester and comes in several adorable prints. Though it was comfortable to sit on, the stitching looked tight, and it rolled up easily in the attached straps, the blanket lacked the other features that separate our picks from the competition: No stake loops, no bottle-opener clasp, no ultra-comfortable feel. And the price is high.

The Pendleton Outdoor Packable Blanket has high review scores on Amazon, but ours arrived with loose threads in the stitching.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guides

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Dorie Chevlen

Dorie Chevlen is a staff writer from Youngstown, Ohio, now living in Los Angeles. She has worked as a copy editor, fact checker, and sandwich maker, but this is probably her favorite gig. Beyond her Wirecutter work, Dorie writes screenplays and contributes frequently to other sections of The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The LA Review of Books, and Slate, among others. She has been called—both flatteringly and not—“a lot.”

Further reading

All of My Picnic Guests Ask Me About These Dreamy Tumblers

by Marguerite Preston

Falcon Enamelware’s stylish, durable tumblers have eliminated plastic cups from my summer picnic setup.

The Best Canopy Tent for Camping and Picnics

by Kalee Thompson

The easy-to-set-up REI Co-op Screen House Shelter is our canopy tent pick, with good sun and insect protection and a bright, roomy feel.

The Best Camping Chairs

by Kyle Fitzgerald and Kalee Thompson

The Coleman Cooler Quad Chair is a classic camping chair to keep you comfortable in most situations. But we recommend other seating options too.

5 Offline Games We Love for Camping (That Are Also Great for the Backyard)

by James Austin

Camping has many joys—hiking, relaxing by a fire, appreciating trees—but sometimes nature’s inherent entertainment needs an assist. We have five great games to do just that.

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The 11 Very Best Picnic Blankets

In this article

• Best overall
• Best padded
• Best for the beach
• Best for hiking
• Best all-terrain
• Best for dogs

We’ve still got a few months of picnic season left, even as the weather starts to turn. And whether you’re meeting friends in Astoria Park or heading to the Rockaways, a smooth and preferably waterproof surface to sit on is fundamental. To find the best picnic rugs and blankets for all occasions (from casual hangs to hiking pit stops), I asked outdoorsy types and professional picnic planners for their favorites. Then I tested out those recommendations for myself, while also consulting with fellow Strategist staffers (and their dogs) about what brands they use. Once you’ve picked out your blanket, I’ve also written about the best picnic accessories , outdoor games , and outdoor chairs .

Update on August 22, 2024:  Removed the Pendleton Outdoor Packable Blanket; added testing notes for the Baggu Puffy Picnic Blanket; checked prices and stock of all other products.

What we’re looking for

When buying a picnic blanket, says  Perfect Picnic NYC  founder Wendy Weston, “the biggest thing to consider is size.” A blanket or rug that measures just 40” by 60” is really only suitable for one to two people — then again, at most group picnics, everyone usually brings their own blanket. For families, you’ll want to consider blankets that measure at least 60” by 70”. To help you plan, we’ve noted the dimensions of all our picks, as well as which of them are sold in multiple sizes.

Whether it’s made from polyester, nylon, or cotton, a good picnic blanket “should be durable and able to be put down on any outdoor surface,” says Annie Seddington, president and coordinator of  PikNYC Luxury Events . “You don’t want to worry about it ripping or getting holes in it.” While the term “picnic blanket” might recall the heavy wool plaid of yore, these days we tend to prefer washable and wipe-down rugs that are better suited to the great outdoors — especially if food, kids, or dogs are involved.

I’ve also taken note of where each blanket will work best. “If it’s going to be a windy location, a picnic blanket with loops in the corners so it can stay firm in the ground is very helpful,” says Seddington. “For beach picnics, there are special picnic blankets where you can put sand in the pockets and the sand acts as a weight.” If you’re on soft grass or sand, you can get away with a thinner (and therefore more compact) blanket, but on most other terrain you’re going to want a thicker weave or some form of cushioning. While all these picks are relatively easy to clean, experts advised to stay away from light colors if you’re planning on taking your blanket to places other than the beach. “It’s a pain, once the dirt does get in, you can wash them nine million times and it’s not coming out. Someone’s footprint will never come off.”

Best picnic blanket overall

Size: Eight sizes, from 60” by 60” to 61” by 77” | Fabric: Acrylic | Best use: Park picnics

This classic striped Scuddles blanket is exactly what comes to mind when I hear the word “picnic.” I ordered one after receiving a recommendation from picnic expert Ali Rosen , author of the cookbook Bring It!, and was pleased to find that it’s more substantial and durable than comparably priced picnic blankets from Amazon or big-box stores. It has wipe-down waterproof plastic on the bottom and soft acrylic on top, with a layer of padding in between, which makes it ideal for both grass and sand. There are numerous size options that’ll suit singles, couples, and groups; the blanket also rolls up easily and comes with an unusually sturdy carry handle. Best of all? This blanket is affordable enough that you can keep a couple different sizes around, or keep one in your car and have another stored indoors.

Best puffy picnic blanket

Size: 75” by 52” | Fabric: Recycled polyester | Best use: Park picnics, camping, hiking

After testing this sleeping-bag-like puffy blanket for three years now, I am basically unable to picnic on a non-puffy surface. It feels luxuriously comfortable; the moderate extra bulk is totally worth it. While designed to keep campers warm on chilly nights, it’s great for picnicking — it even has corner loops for staking out (as well as a clip feature that turns it into a cape). I’ve taken mine to friend hangs and on a picnic Hinge date; it was made to sprawl out on. The blanket stuffs down surprisingly small; the Whimsical Woman founder Jennifer Mabus used hers on a summer hiking trip with her husband, son, and dog. “We carried it on the hike and once we were done we had a picnic,” she says. “It’s very light to carry and is so comfortable for even my baby to crawl around on. Even the dog can walk over the blanket and we don’t worry that her nails will tear the material.” The fabric is treated with a durable water repellent finish, and it’s machine washable.

Best (less-expensive) puffy picnic blanket

Size: 72” by 54” | Fabric: Recycled nylon and polyester | Best use: Park picnics, camping

As with all Baggu’s products, from our favorite laptop case to the brand’s beloved tote bag s, this blanket is available in a number of cheerful designs that are updated seasonally. I’ve been testing mine for about a year and have received many compliments on it. The Baggu picnic blanket is thinner than the Rumpl, with a crinklier and shinier surface. But its padding still provides a fair amount of butt protection, and the nylon fabric also happens to be a bit easier to wipe clean. I also like that Baggu’s blanket has a handle attached, which means you don’t have to stuff it into an additional carry bag.

Best hiking blanket

Size: 63” by 44” | Fabric: Nylon | Best use: Hiking and backpacking

I’ve owned this wallet-size blanket for four years, and it has yet to develop holes or show any other noticeable signs of wear. It’s similar to the beach-friendly one above, but even smaller and lighter, making it ideal for taking along on hiking and backpacking trips. I’m a fan of the tiny but mighty built-in corner stakes, which make it easy to stretch the fabric into a taut, waterproof surface when you’re on the trail. Lines of stitching on one side show you where to fold the blanket so it fits into the small included pouch, though I tend to just scrunch up and stash mine. A note: While I do take this blanket on park hangs because I love its packability, it’s nowhere near as comfortable as, say, the Rumpl. You’ll want to clear the ground of rocks and sticks first, and ideally lay it somewhere flat.

Best all-terrain blanket

Size: 60” by 70” | Fabric: Recycled polyester | Best use: Park picnics, beach days, festivals, camping and van life

Nomadix sent me this blanket to test out at the beginning of summer 2022, and it is my go-to for camping and beach trips. Pleasingly thick but easy to fold or roll for storage, it has a unique (slightly towel-like) microsuede surface that is pleasant to lie out on as well as a water-resistant base. It feels extremely durable and doesn’t stain easily. Although I haven’t used it yet for this purpose, I think it would make a perfect tent doormat to glamp up a campsite. One note: Though this blanket has corner loops for anchoring, it does not include stakes. I have occasionally brought along my own, but the fabric is usually heavy enough to hold its own against wind. If you’re looking for just one blanket for a variety of outdoor activities, this is the one.

Best XL picnic blanket

Size: XL 114” by 114,” XXL 95” by 95” | Fabric: Acrylic | Best use: Park picnics, beach days, festivals, camping and van life

Never compete for blanket space at the birthday picnic again with this huge square blanket from outdoor brand Nemo, available in two fairly gigantic sizes. It has a similar all-terrain design to the Nomadix above, with a waterproof base and soft fabric top, but is slightly firmer in feel and designed to be rolled rather than folded up for storage. There’s a secret stash pocket for keeping valuables out of sight should you stray from the blanket for a swim or stroll, and the corners have grommets that slot into the poles of Nemo’s two compatible sun shelters in order to create a carpeted area inside. My fellow Strategist writer Jeremy Rellosa is a happy Nemo Victory owner, saying this investment blanket “works well for parks and also the beach,” because sand doesn’t stick to it easily.

Best picnic blanket for dog owners

Size: 55” by 79” | Fabric: Polyester | Best use: Park picnics and beach days

Yeti’s outdoor products, while expensive, are known for their durability and thoughtful design. As well as of its iconic coolers , we’re big fans of the brand’s memory-foam dog bed , which Strategist writer Arielle Avila calls “indestructible,” adding that it has far outlasted any other bed that she has purchased for her pooch in the past. Avila says that Yeti’s padded waterproof picnic blanket is similarly durable, and has lasted for two seasons of park picnics and beach hangs so far without so much as a loose thread. “It’s expensive, but has withstood lots of spills without staining,” she says. “And our dog loves it — she rolls around and is pretty rough on it and it hasn’t torn at all.” Cook  Dan Pelosi , who doesn’t own a dog but is something of a beach-picnic expert, also raved about this blanket to me, admitting that while it’s “not the cutest,” it’s extremely waterproof and easy to carry. “I’ll use it as the base of my picnic and then I’ll layer a cheap cute beach towel on top of it,” he adds.

Best throw blanket

Size: 50” by 60” | Fabric: Cotton | Best use: Park picnics

If you prefer the aesthetic of a cotton throw blanket, the picnic planner experts I spoke with recommended layering these with a plastic or canvas tarp underneath to avoid stains and that uncomfortable wet grass feeling. This patterned throw, a favorite of Seddington’s, is available in eight muted colors, and the decorative tassels are surprisingly luxe for this price point.

Best luxury throw blanket

Size: 60” by 78” | Fabric: Cotton | Best use: Park picnics, outdoor events

If you’re styling an outdoor event, Weston suggests adding pops of color with Annie Selke’s soft cotton throws. “They’ll elevate any picnic,” she promises. “They’re just a high-quality blanket that’s made from natural fibers and really fits with any environment.” The throws are generously sized and are available in all sorts of bold and subtle striped shades. They’re machine-washable and ethically crafted in India.

Best (less-expensive) throw blanket

Size: 47” by 63” | Fabric: Recycled polyester | Best use: Park picnics

Picnic & Peonies founder Michelle Ison, meanwhile, stocks up on these simple Ikea throw blankets, because they’re “relatively large, soft, and come in a beautiful green color.” Not to mention the fact that they’re extremely affordable, “so you don’t feel guilty if they get dirt or grass stains.” If that is a concern, though, they’re machine washable.

Best durable picnic blanket

Size: 36” by 60” | Fabric: Cotton | Best use: Park picnics, beach days

Thicker and more durable than the picks above, trendy glamping brand the Get Out’s picnic blanket is an investment piece that will — true to its name — look great against any backdrop. Recommended to us by Chelsea Rizzo and Allison Levy, the stylish co-founders of women’s outdoor-gear brand and New York City–based hiking club Hikerkind , the rug is something of a hybrid between a beach towel and picnic blanket, and would look right at home laid out next to a swimming hole upstate. It’s machine washable; aside from picnicking, the brand also recommends using it as a tent-area rug.

Some Strategist-approved picnic accessories

Our experts

• Arielle Avila , writer, the Strategist • Michelle Ison, founder, Picnic & Peonies • Jennifer Mabus , founder, The Whimsical Woman • Dan Pelosi,  cookbook author • Dulce Randall, founder, Chaos in the Desert • Jeremy Rellosa, writer, the Strategist • Allison Levy and Chelsea Rizzo, co-founders, Hikerkind • Ali Rosen, food journalist • Annie Seddington, president and coordinator, PikNYC Luxury Events • Wendy Weston, founder, Perfect Picnic NYC

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The 7 Best Picnic Blankets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The best blankets to spruce up your al fresco dining

Kenedee Fowler is a shopping writer for The Spruce. She's constantly researching and testing the best home products. Kenedee has been a shopping writer for two years and is always on the hunt for the best duvet covers, pillows, sofas, bath towels, and more. If she's not writing about the best home products, you can find her adding plants and decor to her own home.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Other Options We Tested

• How We Tested
• What to Look For
• Why Trust The Spruce

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Whether you prefer to have your al fresco dinner beachside or on a grassy knoll, having the right picnic blanket to host your feast makes all the difference. But any old blanket won't do. The best picnic blanket should be waterproof to keep away damp grass, easy to clean, and comfortable enough to add to your outdoor seating .

Our mission to find the ultimate picnic blanket was no small undertaking. We meticulously selected 31 outdoor blankets and put them through a slew of tests . Each blanket was thoroughly evaluated for its construction, comfort level, ease of cleaning, and durability.

Our testing lab looked like a scene from The Princess and the Pea , with our team placing a rock under each blanket and reporting whether it could be felt when sitting. We even dumped sand and water on each blanket to determine how easily they wiped clean or repelled moisture. All in all, our top picks are just right for your outdoor dining , lounging, or even napping needs.

Best Overall

L.l.bean waterproof outdoor blanket.

Two-sided design

Soft, comfy fleece material

Slick yet soft, water resistant backing

Resists stains

Tricky to get into case

The best picnic blanket is comfortable and plush enough to lounge on for hours, waterproof, large enough to host a party of two or more, and easy to pack up. The L.L. Bean Waterproof Outdoor Blanket checks all those boxes. During testing, it outperformed the competition with its cozy fleece top and durable waterproof backing that easily resisted water and grime.

We also liked how this blanket's waterproof material wasn't plasticky like some of the other blankets we tried. It can comfortably seat two people with its 72 x 58-inch size or a picnic for three with its extra-large size , 80 x 72 inches. While the blanket is the perfect sharing size, it is on the thin side, and we were able to feel rocks poking through. However, it has just the perfect amount of cushion that dulls them out, making it soft and cozy to sit on.

We love how easily this blanket folds back into the carrying case. Nothing is worse than a picnic blanket that’s a hassle to put away neatly. But if you need help folding, the manufacturer includes a visual guide on properly rolling the blanket.

And if an accidental spill occurs (since it is a picnic blanket for food and drinks), you can rest easy knowing this blanket is machine-washable and can be tumbled-dried. However, we recommend using this blanket for park picnics, as smaller debris like sand is a bit tougher to shake off. 

Size: 72 x 58 inches | Materials: Polyester fleece and nylon | Case Included: Yes | Waterproof: Yes

• PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Best Budget

Redcamp picnic blanket.

Easy to fold up

Sand shakes off easily on slick fabric

Resists stains and water

Not the softest material to sit on

The Red Camp Picnic Blanket stood out from the rest of the blankets we tested thanks to its easy-to-fold design, making it simple to clean up after a picnic. While this budget-friendly blanket isn’t the softest to sit on, the polyester fabric easily resists dirt, water, and stains, making it ideal for picnics on the beach where sand can be pervasive. Both sides of the blanket are waterproof, so it's easy to clean up any spills.

While this blanket may not be the largest of those we tested, we think it's a great option for couples or for one person to stretch out on. As we mentioned, we really liked how simple it was to fold up. It has a Velcro closure with a top handle, but it also comes with a drawstring bag for backpack-like carrying.

Although we can't speak to this blanket's long-term durability, we appreciate its affordable price tag and think it's a great option for anyone who wants a simple picnic blanket to offer a barrier between sand or wet grass.

Size: 79 x 59 inches | Materials:  Polyester and PVC | Case Included:  Yes | Waterproof:  Yes

Best Construction

Yeti lowlands blanket.

High-quality construction

Cozy, warm material

Reputable outdoor brand

Utility loops

Tricky to fold into case

If you spend a lot of time outdoors, the Yeti Lowlands Blanket is top-tier in terms of quality. But like most items from the reputable outdoor brand, it does come with a price tag to match. This blanket is similar to a quilted bed comforter , thanks to its polyester-rayon front and a thick layer of polyester insulation.

This Yeti blanket is water-repellent. During testing, liquids puddled up on its surface, allowing us to wipe spills away with no stain left behind. We also easily brushed sand away, making us think this blanket would be especially great for a beach picnic. It’s even designed to repel dirt, burrs, and pet hair, but we did not get a chance to test it with these specific materials. Unlike most of the blankets in our guide, we love that this picnic blanket comes with six utility loops around the edges. There’s nothing worse than a picnic blanket that won’t stay put in windy conditions. However, you will have to provide your own ground stakes. This blanket is also machine washable and can be tumble dried, making it a great option for families with pets and messy little ones. 

The carrying case for this blanket is also quite impressive, yet compact, so you could leave it in the trunk of your car for impromptu picnics and outdoor fun. We did note that the blanket is somewhat bulky to fold and stuff back into the case, but such is the case with most blanket designs. All in all, this blanket is worth the splurge if your family spends a lot of time outside or if you're just a fan of knowing that your money is well-invested in a made-to-last design.

Size: 78 x 55 inches | Materials:  Polyester-rayon front, polyester back | Case Included:  Yes | Waterproof:  Yes

Best Waterproof

Oceas waterproof blanket.

Cozy fleece material

Easy to fold

Super absorbent

Fleece stains easily

Rain or shine, the Oceas Waterproof Blanket is suitable for both. With a waterproof backing and a fleece top layer that stays dry, this blanket wins in the durability department. We've tested a lot of quality picnic blankets but this Oceas blanket is by far the highest in quality. It's the perfect option for a picnic on damp grass.

When cleaning up accidental spills, you'll definitely want to just toss the blanket in the washing machine, as it is suitable for it. We found the fleece didn't repel well to water, and it became a bit stained from our juice test. However, on the other hand, the blanket is pretty residual to dirt, which is perfect for crumby picnics. 

The blanket's elastic band makes it easy to secure into the included drawstring carrying bag, which we really appreciated given its large 79 x 58-inch size. 

Size: 79 x 58 inches | Materials:  Polyester fleece and polyurethane-coated polyester | Case Included:  Yes | Waterproof:  Yes

Big Blanket Co. XL Outdoorsy Blanket

Impressive quality

Extra-large size can hold several people (and pets)

Cozy, padded material

Machine washable

Struggle to squeeze back into the carry bag

We’ve tested many large picnic blankets, but none can compare to the Big Blanket XL Outdoorsy Blanket . At 64 square feet, we were able to comfortably fit two adults and a 60-pound dog, and there was still a lot of extra lounging space. It’s by far the best choice if you’re looking for a large picnic blanket to host the entire family.

Along with its immense size, we were so surprised by the comfort that we lounged on it for two hours without any issues. Like our best construction pick, the Yeti Lowlands Blanket , this blanket is extremely thick and padded, with a similar feel to the best comforter. You’re not even able to feel the ground underneath you.

While we weren’t able to see how well this blanket performed with sand, we did get some dirt on it, and it slid right off after shaking. The blanket is also said to be water resistant, quick-drying, and machine washable, making cleaning a breeze. However, packing up this massive thing inside the carrying bag was a struggle. You’ll definitely need an extra set of hands for help.

The Big Blanket XL Outdoorsy Blanket is quite costly, with a retail price of over $100. But, with such stellar construction and durability, it’s well worth the hefty price tag. Plus, its big size eliminates the need to purchase numerous blankets to accommodate all your friends and family. 

Size: 96 x 96 inches | Materials: Polyester | Case Included: Yes | Waterproof: Water-resistant

• PHOTO: The Spruce / Daniela Galvez

Best for Beach

Little unicorn indoor/outdoor blanket.

Easy to shake off sand and debris

Soft, padded design

Carrying case includes zippered pouch

Thin fabric could rip easily

Unlike many of the blankets we tested, this design does not have a fleece top material, making it a great option to take to the beach. You can go almost anywhere with the Little Unicorn Indoor/Outdoor Blanket, which easily folds up without needing an extra carrying bag. This blanket also has a zippered pocket for storing your keys, sunscreen, or phone. 

We love that this blanket comes in several bright patterns, including floral, plaid, and botanical motifs, and you can choose from three sizes, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your family. While this blanket is the thickest option that we tested, it still protected us from a rocky surface. It excelled during our water test, and stains come out with just a few blots, even on the white fabric. 

We found the sand easy to wipe away with little residue left behind. Our only major concern with this blanket's top fabric is that it is fairly thin and feels like it might rip with rough use. However, this blanket is still a great option, especially when packing for a beach picnic, where many other necessities are in tow.

Size: 60 x 60 inches | Materials:  Polyester | Case Included:  Yes | Waterproof:  Water-resistant

Best for Camping

Down under outdoors stadium blanket.

Large enough for several people

Substantial weight

Zippered pocket on blanket

Fleece material attracts sand

Whether you picnic with a crowd, camp with your family, or just want space to stretch out, the Down Under Outdoors Blanket offers plenty of room, thanks to its 82- x 55-inch size. We found that this blanket is heavy enough not to blow away on especially windy days.

We also liked the soft fleece on one side and a durable waterproof backing on the reverse. And its hidden zippered pocket also allows you to stash your keys or other belongings for safekeeping. We found this design element extremely useful, especially for storing small blowable items, such as wrappers and napkins while picnicking.

Despite the blanket's claims of being waterproof, after 15 minutes, we noticed water starting to soak into the waterproof material but never through the soft fleece side. We tested the black color, so the sand was very noticeable on the fleece side, but a few good shakes removed most of the sand we had poured on it. 

Like other blankets in our roundup, this option is also machine-washable, so cleaning it can be a breeze. This blanket's carrying case was the easiest one we handled during testing. It has an adjustable shoulder strap and a top handle. Overall, we were very impressed by this blanket and thought it was well-priced with unique features despite some durability quirks.

Size: 82 x 55 inches | Materials:  Polyester | Case Included:  Yes | Waterproof:  Yes

Final Verdict

After hours of testing picnic blankets against rocks, sand, and juice stains, our top pick is the L.L. Bean Waterproof Outdoor Blanket . This blanket stood out from the rest thanks to its soft and cozy finish, plus it also resists stains and has an effective waterproof backing. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly picnic blanket that can stand up to gritty sand, we recommend the Red Camp Waterproof Picnic Blanket , which is spacious and can withstand wet surfaces.

Wekapo Sand-Free Blanket : We were excited by this blanket's "sand-free" name, and testing proved that the smooth material allows sand to easily rolls off of it. However, this blanket is not waterproof and we're wary of how the combination of wet bathing suits and nearby sand would affect this blanket's performance.

If you plan to not get in the water at the beach, then this blanket may be for you, but families with eager children may want to opt for a definitively waterproof or water-resistant design, like our best beach pick, the Little Unicorn Indoor/Outdoor Blanket .

How We Tested the Picnic Blankets

After buying 31 highly-rated picnic blankets, we constructed a sand beach at The Lab in Des Moines, Iowa, and subjected each picnic blanket to a number of tests, evaluating their quality, comfort, ease of cleaning, durability, and overall value. 

• Quality: We evaluated each blanket’s quality by laying them on the sand and examining it for loose threads, tears, or other design quirks. We also folded up each blanket and noted how easy it was to follow the manufacturer's instructions and portability claims. If the blanket included a carrying case, we made sure to consider how easy it was to put it back into the case.
• Comfort: To assess the blanket’s comfortability, we put rocks on the sand and spread the picnic blankets over them. We then took turns sitting on each blanket to see if we could detect the rock underneath and note whether any designs stood out for extra cushioning.
• Ease of Cleaning: We conducted two cleaning tests. In the first test we sprinkled sand on each blanket, then tried to shake it off to see whether the sand came off or stuck to the material. Then, in our second cleaning test, we determined how well each blanket resisted staining by pouring grape juice on them and letting the liquid stand for 30 seconds before attempting to blot it up.
• Durability: During our durability test, we evaluated each blanket’s water resistance. We poured a quarter cup of water onto each blanket, let it stand for 15 minutes, then wiped up the moisture with a towel and turned the blankets over to see how much the water soaked through. For blankets with a fluffy side, we also considered whether they would snag easily if caught by jewelry or a standard picnic basket.
• Overall value: After examining the price and performance during testing, we considered whether we'd pay the listed price more for it or wait until it was on sale.

What to Look for in a Picnic Blanket

A picnic blanket's material impacts its comfort, durability, and resistance to moisture. While most traditional blankets are made from fleece and wool, these materials cannot withstand wet and sandy conditions alone. 

Most modern picnic blankets are made from cotton, polyester, or a water-proofed blend. “Look for two things: water resistance and a material that won't attract grass and leaves,” says  Lauren Kimmons , owner of Pop Up Picnic Co. Picnic blankets for the beach are also frequently seen in nylon or polypropylene since both materials are lightweight and make it easy to shake off sand and debris.

Since wet or damp ground can quickly lead to a soggy sitting spot, many picnic blankets include a waterproof backing material, like our best waterproof pick, the Oceas Waterproof Blanket and L.L. Bean Waterproof Outdoor Blanket . As Kimmons suggests, this is a must-have if you want the flexibility of using your picnic blanket in all types of conditions. However, a waterproof backing generally results in a thicker, slightly more bulky picnic blanket that may not be machine washable.

Our best waterproof pick will not only keep you dry but can also be machine-washed for any major messes. If machine washability is a non-negotiable feature for you, be sure to consult a blanket's individual care guide.

Picnic blankets are usually 60 to 70 inches long. Some compact options measure a few inches shorter, while others for large groups may measure 80 inches or more in length. You want to choose a picnic blanket that is spacious enough for everyone in your group to sit on, including any children or pets. Our best large blanket, the Big Blanket XL Outdoorsy Blanket , is perfect for this. 

Keep in mind that ultra-portable picnic blankets, such as those that fold up into a small pouch or pocket, may not offer as much room to spread out. On the other hand, a very large picnic blanket takes up more storage space. In general, it's better to have a picnic blanket that is too large instead of one that is too small to accommodate you and your alfresco spread.

Portability

Anytime you plan an outdoor activity, the required gear can add up quickly. Once an outdoor cooler is loaded with a heavy ice pack and all of your food is in tow, the best picnic blanket should almost be an afterthought if it's lightweight enough. "The lighter you travel, the more likely you are to get out there and not get burnt out on the prep," says Kimmons. "Plus, you'll be able to navigate more varied terrain and find the best picnic spots."

A classic option is a rolled-up picnic blanket with a carrying handle or straps that encircle the blanket. Our best overall pick, the L.L. Bean Waterproof Outdoor Blanket , has two elastic straps that make it easy to keep secure. Many space-saving picnic blankets are designed to fold into a small pocket on the blanket, or an included pouch or case.

Care Requirements

A picnic blanket that is regularly used will need occasional cleaning. Dirt, grass, leaves, mud, spills, and crumbs from food and beverages can all soil your blanket. 

Some picnic blankets, like our best overall pick, the  L.L. Bean Waterproof Outdoor Blanket,  and our best large, the  Big Blanket XL Outdoorsy Blanket , are machine washable. Others, such as some polyester picnic blankets, will be spot-clean only. Plastic mats, such as polypropylene picnic blankets, may not be machine washable, but they can easily be wiped clean or even rinsed with a garden hose.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Kenedee Fowler is a shopping writer for The Spruce, writing everything home-related, both indoors and outdoors. For this article, Kenedee analyzed all our picnic blanket testing insights from The Lab, paying special attention to each blanket’s material, comfortability, quality, and overall value.

Kenedee also recalls the many outdoor lunches at the park with her parent’s picnic blanket wedding gift. It was a gorgeous and durably constructed blanket, but it wasn’t comfortable sitting on for long. Using the testing insights and her personal experience, Kenedee could confidently compile this list of the best picnic blankets

Our Experts:

• Lauren Kimmons, owner of Pop Up Picnic Co., provided expert tips on selecting the best blanket for outdoor activities
• Daniela Galvez , senior editor for The Spruce

More from The Spruce

The Best Picnic Blankets of 2024, According to Experts

Lay, dine or play a game on these cute blankets in small and large sizes.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

A picnic blanket is one of those items you probably don't think too much about — until that moment you realized how badly you could use a new one, say, as you're sitting on a cold, wet ground or when you and your family of four are crammed on to a tiny square of fabric. The right picnic blanket can make a huge difference in your comfort level on any outdoor adventure whether you're looking for a durable option to add to your camping gear or you just need something lightweight to carry along on your walk to the park. Our experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles, Paper & Apparel and Kitchen Appliances & Innovation Labs teamed up to evaluate the best picnic blankets of 2024, from large water-repellent styles to cute blankets fit for babies.

Our top picks:

best overall

Picnic time montecito picnic blanket with harness.

REDCAMP Extra Large Picnic Blanket

best waterproof

L.l.bean waterproof outdoor blanket.

Our pros have tested everything from the best beach towels , travel blankets and outdoor rugs to the best kitchen knives and food storage containers you may use to prep your picnic food. When researching picnic blankets, we paid particular attention to each blanket's construction, materials and ease-of-use features. We then called in four blankets to evaluate in our Lab, spreading out each one and feeling the fabric for ourselves. To see how consumers felt the blankets sized up in real life, we read through online reviews to learn more about their durability.

After our recommended picnic blankets, continue on to find more information on how we test as well as what to look for when shopping. If you're looking for more ways to upgrade your outdoor area come spring and summer, check out our guide to the best outdoor products on Amazon .

The beige gingham is giving boho picnic vibes (same goes for the blue stripe and taupe windowpane patterns this style also comes in). Our pros appreciate the braided harness that makes it easy to carry your blanket to the picnic and then store it rolled up when not in use. However, our experts did find the harness somewhat difficult to secure.

"The cotton top is soft and cozy to sit on, while the polyester backing is more durable and easier to wipe clean," says Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Senior Analyst Emma Seymour . This means that you won't have to worry about dirt or leaves attaching to the bottom side of the blanket — although the pretty tassels may attract some debris. Just make sure to shake it out before rolling it up.

This attractive blanket is great if you're looking for a stylish picnic blanket that is water-resistant, relatively easy to clean and comes with a carrying system. While it's cushy feel means it's great for long stretches of time spent lounging on the ground, it's color and cotton topside may make it harder to keep clean, particularly if you have kids or pets. You can machine wash the blanket, which is a huge perk for a light colored blanket. Note that the brand recommends hanging it to dry.

Size: 60" x 70" | Material: Cotton, polyester, rayon | Weight : 4 lbs

Picnic blankets don't have to be expensive, which is why our pros appreciate this Amazon's Choice blanket that's under $15 with an average 4.5-star rating. It's extra-large size only stretches its overall value even more as the brand claims you can fit up to four people on the blanket. If you're planning an outing with more people, you can buy more than one without spending over $50.

Choose from three striped and plaid patterns that will look nice spread out on the ground. We like that it's designed to be water- and sand-resistant, so you can use it at a park after a rainy day or at the beach. Just wipe dry with a paper towel or clean it with a damp cloth. Our pros also like the carrying handle and included bag so you can transport the compact blanket with ease.

"This blanket is perfect for picnics, sunbathing, reading outside, all of which I have done. It keeps me from getting dirty or wet from the grass, and this is super easy to clean!" said one reviewer. Although other customers have found that it's a little hard to figure out how to fold up.

Size: 79" x 59"; 79" x 77" | Material: Oxford polyester, ‎PVC | Weight : 2 lbs

This outdoor blanket from L.L.Bean, a popular outdoor brand for rugged essentials, is designed to be waterproof with a coated nylon backing to keep the cozy fleece top from getting soaked. It also comes with a bag so you can store it in your car en route or in your home when not in use. Great for families, this picnic blanket can be machine washed and dried if any spills or accidents happen.

The blanket has a 4.8-star rating on the brand's site, with one shopper who called it the "best waterproof blanket" and another "a great investment." One customer adds: "This blanket is great for those cold early morning soccer games or afternoons sitting in the bleachers in the rain. Keeps one warm and dry." However, some reviews note that the nylon backing can be noisy.

Size: 72" x 58" | Material: Polyester, nylon | Weight : Not listed

NEMO Victory XL Picnic Blanket

Although about $150, this sizable blanket is the largest on our list measuring 95 x 95 inches. Our pros appreciate its water-resistant bottom so you can set it down on damp grass without feeling wet. Corner loops let you put stakes down if you want to ensure the blanket stays put in windier conditions, or if you are camping with the fam and will be staying in one location for a bit.

There's a stash pocket on one side to store stakes (not included) or fit your phone and keys or other essentials you want to keep close by. A flannel top fits the camping vibe, although we wish that it was available in other colors as well.

Size: 95" x 95" | Material: Acrylic, PU Foam, EVA | Weight : 3 lbs 14 oz

Little Unicorn Indoor/Outdoor Blanket

If you have little ones, opt for this adorable blanket that's available in three sizes and nine cute patterns from Primrose Patch (pictured) to Midnight Poppy. Online shoppers give it top marks for being easy to fold and clean — a huge perk when it comes to dining with the youngest. It's machine washable, wipeable and water-resistant. Our pros like that the durable polyester blanket folds up into a carrying case with a shoulder strap for easy transport.

"Any outdoor event (like shows, playground visits, etc.) you bring a baby along to, it's good to have a covering that’s compact to carry and easily cleanable," said Lexie Sachs , executive director of strategy & operations at the GH Institute. This blanket checks all of those boxes. One five-star review said: "It’s perfect for my daughter to play on outside and even inside if I need something waterproof under her! It folds up nicely to store in the car or stroller." Some Amazon shoppers did find that the sizing listed on the site wasn't accurate upon opening.

Size: 60" x 60"; 60" x 84"; 60" x 120" | Material: Polyester | Weight : 2.8 lbs

scuddles Extra Large Picnic Blanket

With over 15,800 online Amazon ratings, this budget-friendly blanket goes for under $20 with an average 4.6-star rating. The brand claims that you can fit four seated people or two people if they are laying down. Similar to other blankets, it features a water-resistant bottom and a carrying strap.

Several five-star reviews emphasized its versatility, stating that it's suitable for a variety of surfaces, thanks to its durable bottom. One satisfied shopper said, "I used this blanket at the beach, watching fireworks and for a picnic. Very comfortable to sit and lay on. It is a lovely blanket I will use again and again." Some reviewers wished that the quality was better, although a lower price tag often means the construction will not be as solid as pricer picks. You can choose between four sizes and nine geometric patterns.

Size: 53" x 59"; 60" x 60"; 60" x 75"; 60" x 79"; 60" x 80" | Material: Acrylic | Weight : 0.16 oz

Yeti Lowlands Blanket

Yeti is known for its durable tumblers and travel mugs, as well as its rugged duffels and backpacks. Although the Lowlands Blanket is a hefty $200 — the most expensive pick in our round-up — it features a waterproof exterior and insulated interior to keep you cozy during a late night concert or fall picnic. What's more? If you bring your furry friends along, you'll appreciate that the blanket is designed to not only repel dirt, but also pet hair. It's machine washable and dryer safe too, so you can easily give it a good wash as needed.

Its thick, quilted design offers nice padding for extra comfort on uneven terrain. Although our pros note that a polyester blend such as this one can pill easier — even if it feels softer. Still, our pros appreciate the corner loops and carrying case. The blanket and case are on the bulkier side, but if you want to keep a blanket in the car to use whenever you need it, then this insulted blanket is the one to store in your trunk.

Size: 78" x 55" x 0.3" | Material: Polyester, rayon | Weight : 5.8 lbs

Eddie Bauer Water-Repellent Outdoor Blanket

Although this picnic blanket is on the smaller side (probably best for two people), it's so lightweight that our pros are willing to overlook its size. Seymour uses this Eddie Bauer blanket herself, and finds that its plush feel adds a bit more cushioning while sitting.

Seymour uses this blanket all the time and said, "I love that the carrier is built-in because you don’t have to squish your blanket into a case; just fold it up and you're good to go ." The Velcro can attract some debris, though. But overall, it's a lightweight blanket that would be ideal for those who live in a city or will be walking long stretches of distance before they are able to unfold their blanket.

The entire blanket is made of polyester, meaning you can easily wipe it clean and debris is less likely to cling to the water-resistant backside. Choose from four bright patterns, including blue haze (pictured) and coral.

Size: 59" x 53" | Material: Polyester | Weight : 1 lb 2 oz

Rumpl Everywhere Mat

Our textiles pros have evaluated Rumpl products before, including its blankets in our guide of the best camping gear . The popular Everywhere Mat has a 4.8-star rating online with shoppers praising its versatility and small size that makes it easy to pack up for your next adventure. It has a water-resistant underside to help keep you dry, and a soft polyester microsuede material on top.

The blanket comes with a carrying case that it can fold into, so you can bring it to the beach, hiking or your favorite park. Not only is the blanket small itself, but it folds up neatly to fit compactly in your car, bag or elsewhere. It also has corner stash pockets for storing small items.

One reviewer who gave the blanket five stars said: "The perfect beach mat, forest mat, fossil bed mat, snow mat and marsh mat!!! Unlimited environments...except maybe outer space." More satisfied shoppers chimed in saying it was easy to clean, although one customer said they found it a little difficult to fold into the case.

Size: 38" x 52" | Material: Polyester, TPU laminate bottom | Weight : 1.2 lbs

Nomadix Festival Blanket

Our pros were immediately drawn to the vibrant colors of the Festival Blanket by Nomadix. "The polyester/polyamide top is brushed for a softer feel, while the polyester backing is sleek and smooth," said Seymour. In turn, the blanket won't cling onto debris and will easily wipe clean, making it another kid- and pet-friendly option.

While the synthetic material has its perks, our experts did notice some loose threads and fuzziness in areas, which may mean it isn't of the highest quality. Still, Seymour likes the corner loops for hanging the colorful blanket when not in use, or for putting stakes in the ground so it stays in place while you enjoy your outdoor meal.

One five-star review said: "Absolutely love the blanket. No sand sticks to it and [it's] lightweight to take in your suitcase!" Other customers noted that debris doesn't stick to the underside of the blanket, and that they love the bold colors.

You can choose from 12 patterns and colors, whether you want an energetic tie-dye swirl or a more mellow tropical leaf pattern. If you have an upcoming music festival on the books, then this is the blanket to order.

Size: 60" x 72"| Material: Recycled polyester | Weight : 2 lbs

How we choose the best picnic blankets

At the Good Housekeeping Institute, our experts have spent decades testing almost every home product under the sun, including cozy accessories like picnic blankets. To find the best picnic blankets, our pros researched a wide net of styles and narrowed down our picks based on materials, construction and ease of use.

We considered how each blanket is designed to be carried, as well as its overall appearance and price. We evaluated four picnic blankets in Lab to see how easy they were to unfold and fold back up and how light they were to carry. These evaluations helped us discern which styles we haven't yet tested are worth purchasing.

What to consider when shopping for the best picnic blankets

✔️ Size: We have included blankets of all sizes, from smaller options to medium, large and extra-large styles. If you're shopping online or can't unfold the blanket in the store, it's important to pay attention to the listed dimensions as most picnic blankets can only fit two to three people. Think about how many people will be sitting on the blanket. A smaller size is great for the little ones or for solo excursions however.

✔️ Material: When deciding what material makes most sense for you, think about how you intend to use the picnic blanket (including how likely it will be that it'll get dirty either from the ground or spills). Our experts recommend a blanket with a water-resistant backing for outdoor areas like parks where you may encounter damp surfaces.

A lot of the blankets in our round-up are made of synthetic materials like nylon or polyester. These fabrics are not only durable, but they are also easy to wipe clean if you'll have kids or pets on the picnic blanket. Knitted fabrics may look better, but smooth materials won't pick up as much debris and can be stylish if you opt for a fun pattern.

✔️ Carrying: Some blankets have a carrying system such as attached handles or a separate bag the blanket can fit into when folded up. While this feature isn't necessary, it does make carrying the blanket to and fro a lot easier.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Elizabeth Berry is the updates editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she collaborates with product analysts to ensure our shopping guides reflect accurate information and pricing. She has covered a variety of verticals, including furniture and accessories for outdoor fun. Come spring, you can find Elizabeth sitting on a picnic blanket passing around charcuterie.

To gain insight into what to look for in the best picnic blanket, she collaborated with Kitchen Appliances & Innovation Lab Reviews Analyst Eva Bleyer , who tests kitchen gear, home appliances and more at the GH Institute, as well as Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Senior Analyst Emma Seymour , who has led testing for towels, luggage, pillows and more.

Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping , where she oversees the brand's home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor . In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, "What's in My Cart."

Elizabeth Berry (she/her) is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. Prior to this role, she was an Editorial Assistant for Woman’s Day where she covered everything from gift guides to recipes. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B.A. in English and Italian Studies from Connecticut College.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

Eva (she/her) is a reviews analyst in the Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she tests kitchen gear, home appliances and culinary innovations. She graduated from NYU with a bachelor of science in food studies, nutrition and public health and is a trained chef through the Natural Gourmet Institute. Eva has more than 10 years of experience in the food industry, working as a food stylist, personal chef and marketing manager.

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The 8 Best Picnic Blankets, Tested and Reviewed

Stay comfortable and dry whether you’re at the beach, the park, or your own backyard.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

Our testing process.

• How to Shop
• More to Consider

Take Our Word for It

What is real simple selects.

Real Simple / Dera Burreson

Whether you're headed to the park with a picnic basket, the beach, or an outdoor event, a quality blanket can really elevate your experience. The best picnic blankets provide a comfortable barrier between you and the ground while also keeping you dry and protected from grass, dirt, water, and sand.

To find the best picnic blankets, we tested 30 popular options to see which ones were most comfortable to sit on and easiest to tote around. We also only recommend blankets that are either entirely water-resistant or feature a water-resistant backing to protect you from the elements and make it easier to wipe away spills on the go. Lastly, we spoke with Emily Hecht , co-founder and creative director of Gather Picnic Co., for expert insight on what to look for when shopping for a picnic blanket.

Best Overall

Oniva blanket tote.

Its fleece topside provides cushioning and warmth, while the water-resistant backing protects you from the elements. 

It doesn’t feature any way to keep it in place in windy conditions.

We were really impressed with the quality of the Oniva Blanket Tote, especially considering its affordable price point. Even with its extra-large size, it folds up nicely and weighs just over two pounds. Plus, the attached shoulder strap means you can free up your hands for carrying other items, such as sports equipment or a picnic basket . 

When we laid the blanket over a small rock and sat on it, we could not feel the rock at all—a testament to the comfort and cushion of the blanket. It’s large enough to allow one person to spread out or multiple people to sit. The fleece topside is warm enough to carry you into the cooler months, while the water-resistant backing will keep you protected from the elements. 

In our stain testing, grape juice did leave a faint stain, although this is to be expected with fleece. However, we did find this picnic blanket to shake out sand very easily. On the downside, its lightweight construction comes with a trade-off: We’re doubtful that it will stay put in windy conditions, and it doesn’t feature any way to keep it down, such as stake rings or weighted corners. For this reason, we don’t recommend this towel for the beach, but for pretty much any other purpose—including camping, picnics, outdoor concerts, and sporting events—this easy-to-carry and comfortable picnic blanket is a great choice.

Size: 80 by 70 inches | Weight: 2.2 pounds | Material: Polyester fleece topside with water-resistant backing | Extras: Zippered pocket, carry tote with shoulder strap | Machine-Washable: No

Best Budget

Yodo picnic blanket tote.

At less than 2 pounds, this surprisingly stain-resistant blanket features a carrying tote for easy transport.

There's less cushioning, and sand doesn't shake out very easily.

This picnic blanket costs less than half the average price of all those we tested, yet it was among the best in terms of performance. It’s extremely lightweight at less than 2 pounds and features a carrying tote for easy transport. It really stood out in our spill test: The polyester fleece was surprisingly stain-resistant, and the grape juice mostly pooled rather than soaked into the fabric. For that, we think this makes an excellent choice for people looking to accommodate accident-prone kids or pets.

On the downside, this blanket doesn’t feature as much cushion as our Best Overall pick, and it’s much smaller, so spreading out is not an option for everyone. Additionally, sand didn’t shake out very easily and the blanket doesn’t feature any mechanisms for securing it to the ground, so it’s probably not ideal for use on the beach. Otherwise, it’s very comparable to more expensive fleece picnic blankets on our list, and makes an affordable choice for casual outdoor activities.

Size: 69 by 53 inches | Weight: 1.4 pounds | Material: Polyester fleece topside with vinyl backing | Extras: Carry tote | Machine-Washable: No

Best Splurge

Yeti lowlands blanket.

It features loops on each corner, so you can use stakes to keep it firm to the ground in case of windy conditions.

This is quite heavy compared to other picnic blankets.

We can’t say enough about this premium, all-purpose picnic blanket. Typically with picnic blankets, you have to trade comfort for stain- and weather-resistance or vice versa, but this is not the case with the Lowlands Blanket. 

The feel and comfort of this blanket is similar to that of a bed comforter . According to the manufacturer, the outer layer features a waterproof “hydrobarrier,” which held up remarkably well in our testing: Grape juice pooled on the blanket and left no stain behind, and no water soaked through.

Even if you do experience a little staining, this blanket is machine-washable for easy cleanup. The sand came out with little effort when we shook the blanket, too. We also love that this picnic blanket features loops on each corner so you can use stakes to keep it firm to the ground in case of windy conditions (although it’s already the heaviest on our list). 

The only thing we don’t love about this blanket is the price—it’s the most expensive out of all the picnic blankets we tested. However, if you want a durable and long-lasting blanket that can withstand frequent use, wet conditions, spills, sand, pet hair, and more, this blanket just might be worth the splurge.

Size: 78 by 55 inches | Weight: 5.8 pounds | Material: Polyester/rayon topside with polyester underside | Extras: Carry bag, stake loops | Machine-Washable: Yes

Best Multipurpose

Down under outdoors stadium blanket.

It's large enough to stretch out on and comes with a zipper pocket for holding small items.

It's not particularly stain-resistant and is on the bulky side.

This reasonably priced picnic blanket comes with all the bells and whistles of a more expensive blanket: a soft fleece topside with a waterproof backing, a carry case with an extra-long strap, and a zipper pocket for holding onto small items. We liked that it was large enough to stretch out on and that the soft fleece helped to soften the hard ground, although we could still feel the rocks beneath us just a bit. 

The manufacturer also suggests placing the blanket on the couch or in the car with the water-proof polyester side up to protect your upholstery from pet hair or stains . The fleece side was not particularly stain-resistant in our testing, although the entire blanket is machine-washable. 

Unfortunately, it traps a bit of sand on the fleece side, so we wouldn’t recommend this blanket for the beach. And despite the fact that it rolls up into a convenient carrying bag, it’s on the bulky side of those we tested. However, the soft fleece and polyester backing will carry you into the cooler months for sporting events, picnics, outdoor concerts, campfires, and even indoor use. 

Size: 82 by 55 inches | Weight: 3.1 pounds | Material: Fleece topside with polyester backing | Extras: Zipper pocket, carry bag with strap | Machine-Washable: Yes

Three Donkeys Picnic Blanket

The breathable lightweight is machine-washable and very water-resistant on both sides.

It's a bit challenging to fold up for transport.

This extra-large blanket features a classic gingham pattern that will inspire many family picnics to come. It’s lightweight yet large enough to comfortably seat six to eight adults, and the water-resistant taffeta fabric is extremely stain-resistant. We were able to clean a grape juice spill with just a few wipes, and the sand shook out with ease, making this a great option for those planning on doing lots of eating and drinking on their blanket. Plus, we found this blanket to be very water-resistant on both sides, so laying it over damp grass will be no issue. And for folks with pets or kids, there’s no need to be afraid of this blanket getting dirty, as it’s machine-washable for easy cleanup. 

The taffeta fabric is much more breathable and lightweight than your traditional fleece blanket, making it a great pick for warm-weather picnics, camping, sporting events, and more. However, we do wish it provided a bit more cushion, and we found that folding it up for transport took a few tries to get it just right. But overall, this picnic blanket will accommodate large groups and stand up well to messes and spills.

Size: 79 by 79 inches | Weight: 2.6 pounds | Material: Polyester taffeta topside with oxford fabric backing | Extras: Carry handle | Machine-Washable: Yes

Little Unicorn Indoor/Outdoor Blanket

The polyester fabric wipes clean with little effort, and it's easy to fold up.

It's relatively pricey, considering its small size.

Whether it’s spills, sticky hands, pet hair, or crumbs, this tiny but mighty picnic blanket can handle any mess your baby (or fur baby) throws at it. It’s made with a polyester fabric that wipes clean with little effort; in our testing, the grape juice didn’t even leave a stain behind on the white portion of the fabric. But if you have a stain that proves to be a bit more tough, this blanket is machine-washable, too. 

This picnic blanket is available in three different sizes, and the smallest size is ideal for accommodating kids, pets, or one to two seated adults (but don’t expect to be able to spread out). We appreciated how easy it is to fold up and that it comes with a carry handle, shoulder strap, and zipper pocket. We were also impressed with the amount of cushion it provided. This not only makes it ideal for use outside, but it also provides a soft surface for indoor playtime. On top of all this, the blanket is available in seven different appealing patterns. Considering its size, this blanket is a bit pricey, but parents looking for an indoor/outdoor playtime mat may find it worth the money. 

Size: 60 by 60 inches | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Material: Polyester | Extras: Carry handle, shoulder strap, zipper pocket | Machine-Washable: Yes

Best for the Beach

Roebury outdoor picnic blanket.

It can accommodate multiple people and be zipped up into a small tote with a shoulder strap.

It won't provide much warmth or cushioning.

This lightweight polyester picnic blanket is great for the beach, particularly if you need to accommodate multiple people. The whole thing can be zipped up into a small tote with a shoulder strap, so your hands are free to carry your beach towels and other essentials. Any sand comes off with a simple shake, but where it really impressed was in its ability to repel water: We found that both water and grape juice beaded up on the surface rather than soaking into the blanket, so you won’t be hauling a sopping wet picnic blanket back to the car. However, it is machine-washable if you do have stubborn stains. 

This is definitely a summertime blanket, as it's made with a lightweight and breathable polyester. The trade-off here is that it’s not going to provide much warmth in the cooler months, and it doesn’t provide much cushion, either. However, it will serve as a great basecamp for the whole family while at the beach.

Size: 70 by 55 inches | Weight: 1.8 pounds | Material: Polyester | Extras: Zippered tote with pocket and shoulder strap | Machine-Washable: Yes

Best for Camping

Grand trunk parasheet picnic blanket.

The whole blanket can be compressed down to less than the size of a water bottle and comes with reinforced stake loops and corner sand pockets. 

Water can soak through the parachute material a bit.

Made with 100% parachute nylon, this blanket is the lightest and most portable of all those on our list. The built-in carry sack compresses the whole blanket down to less than the size of a water bottle. The blanket also features two security mechanisms to keep it from flying away in the wind: reinforced stake loops and corner sand pockets.

Overall, this blanket is pretty barebones—it essentially acts as a ground cover between you and the dirt or sand. The water did soak through a bit in our testing, but the blanket dried quickly and the sand shook away easily, so you can pack it back up without worry of mold or mildew. Plus, it is machine-washable. Keep in mind that this will not provide cushion between you and the ground, but it will provide a clean, dry spot to sit when camping, backpacking, hiking, and more. 

Size: 84 by 84 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Material: Parachute nylon | Extras: Anchor pockets, reinforced stake loops, carry sack | Machine-Washable: Yes (hang to dry)

Our top pick is the Oniva Blanket Tote because it's the ideal combination of comfort and functionality at a great value. It features a substantial cushion with a soft fleece topside and waterproof backing, making it an excellent choice for camping, picnics, outdoor concerts, sporting events, and more. Plus, it folds up into a tote with long shoulder straps for easy transport. For a nice budget pick, we recommend the Yodo Water-Resistant Picnic Blanket Tote , which is thinner than other picks but lightweight and easy to tote.

We acquired 30 of the best picnic blankets and tested them in our Des Moines lab over two days. We first examined the material and construction of each picnic blanket, considering its overall quality and look. We also took note of whether it included a carrying case, a storage pouch, or straps. 

To evaluate the comfort of each picnic blanket, we placed a small rock on the floor and covered it with the picnic blanket and then sat on it to see if it could still be felt. We also laid down on each blanket, noting whether there was room to spread out while still remaining entirely on the blanket. 

Next, we evaluated how easy it was to clean each picnic blanket by first sprinkling 1/4 cup of sand on them and shaking off the debris. We also tested each blanket’s stain resistance by pouring one tablespoon of grape juice on the topside of each blanket and allowing it to stand for 30 seconds before wiping it up, noting whether it produced a stain or wiped up easily. 

For our final test, we evaluated the durability of each picnic blanket, including its claim to water-resistance: We poured water over each blanket and allowed it to sit for 15 minutes, then wiped it up with a towel, taking note of how much moisture remained. 

Afterwards, we learned the price of each product and scored its overall value , considering both its price and performance to help us compile our final list. 

How to Shop for Picnic Blankets Like a Pro

Picnic blankets are most commonly made with fleece, nylon, polyester, or some combination of these materials. Fleece offers the most warmth and comfort out of the three, making it ideal for fall and winter camping, sporting events, etc. Picnic blankets made with fleece are usually constructed with a water-resistant backing to protect them from the elements. However, fleece isn’t as stain resistant as nylon or polyester and is known to hold onto dirt and debris. 

For warm-weather picnics, camping, or beach trips, a nylon- or polyester-based picnic blanket is going to be more breathable, lightweight, and water-resistant. Plus, these materials are less likely to hold onto grass, sand, dirt, and crumbs.

When deciding on the size for your picnic blanket, consider where your blanket will be used and by whom. “If you’re having a beach picnic, thin blankets work great, but you’ll want to have more coverage than normal to create a big area that doesn’t get sandy,” Hecht says. Smaller picnic blankets (less than 60 inches long) can be used for kids or pets without taking up too much space when rolled up. But for most people, having a blanket that can accommodate a group is important for a picnic, beach day, camping trip, and more. It’s better to have more space than not enough, but do keep in mind that a larger blanket will take up more storage space when not in use. 

Portability

If you’re planning a picnic or beach day, you may already be juggling a picnic basket, a cooler , chairs, and more—so the last thing you need is a blanket that will weigh you down even further. Classic picnic blankets are designed to be rolled up and carried with a built-in handle, while many space-saving blankets are designed to fold into a small pouch. Some feature a small handle, while others feature a long strap for hands-free transport. 

Ideally, a picnic blanket will be both soft enough to comfortably lounge on yet durable enough to withstand anything from twigs to sand to pet paws. To keep your blanket in good condition, you should refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions—some are machine-washable while others should only be spot treated. 

Although there are plenty of technical factors to consider, at the end of the day, be sure whichever picnic blanket you choose will be one you’re excited to use. “Don't be afraid to pick something with bright colors and patterns!” Hecht says. “Especially if your home decor skews more neutral, picnics are where you can go with something outside of your normal design wheelhouse.” If you have the ability to carry more than one blanket and want a particularly pleasing picnic setup, Hecht suggests layering blankets and rugs of different sizes : “We usually have one large durable blanket in the center, with three to four rugs of varying sizes and textures placed around the blanket.”

Special Features

Security: Losing your picnic blanket to a strong gust of wind is a sure way to ruin any outdoor experience. Look for a picnic blanket that is either heavy enough to lay flat without reinforcement, or one that comes with rings to put down stakes or corner pockets that can be filled with sand to keep it pinned down. The latter can be particularly useful if you're dealing with a lightweight picnic blanket, like those made of nylon.

Storage: Some picnic blankets even feature a zipper pocket for storing small items, a useful feature when you're trying to keep everything in one place.

More Picnic Blankets to Consider

L.L. Bean Waterproof Outdoor Blanket : This blanket is very similar to our Best Overall pick in terms of construction and comfort, but unlike our Best Overall pick, it's machine-washable. However, we found it a bit difficult to roll up into the carrying case, and it doesn't come with a strap. We think it would be a great choice for the cooler months so long as portability isn't your priority.

Oceas Outdoor Waterproof Blanket : If you live in a cold climate, we think this weatherproof blanket would be great for wrapping around your shoulders during outdoor concerts, sporting events, camping trips, and more. The waterproof backing will keep you dry even in the rain and the cozy fleece will keep you warm.

Questions You Might Ask

What's the difference between a picnic blanket and a regular blanket.

Unlike regular blankets and beach towels , picnic blankets are designed to accommodate multiple people. They’re typically constructed out of either a sand-repellent and waterproof fabric or a fleece topside with a water-repellent backing, giving you ample protection from the sand and other elements. And unlike a beach towel, most picnic blankets are not designed to absorb water, and if they do, you may be left with a soggy blanket for quite some time. 

How should you wash picnic blankets?

There is quite a variety of fabrics used to make picnic blankets, so you should always defer to the manufacturer’s care instructions when washing. Many picnic blankets are machine-washable, while others may be spot-clean only. Because so many picnic blankets feature waterproof, stain-resistant fabrics, they’re easy to wipe down between uses and spot-treat or machine-wash only when needed. “At the end of the day, this is a base for a meal and leisure time with friends and family and the last thing you want to be concerned with are spills and cleaning up later,” Hecht says.

This article was written by Melanie Fincher , associate commerce editor for Real Simple with three years of experience writing product reviews and lifestyle content. To compile this list, we tested 30 of the best picnic blankets in our lab. Melanie spent hours evaluating testing insights, considering quality, comfort, ease of cleanup, durability, and overall value. For expert insight she spoke with Emily Hecht , co-founder and creative director of Gather Picnic Co., a luxury picnic company in Atlanta.

Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval . Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.

Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects , from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.

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• Grilling & Outdoor Equipment

To Find the Best Picnic Blankets, I Used Them in the Park and at the Beach (and Fended Off a Few Seagulls)

The Pendleton picnic blanket was easy to pack, pleasant to sit on, and roomy enough for a few people.

Serious Eats / Grace Kelly

The Winners, at a Glance

What we learned.

• What to Look For

Our Favorite Picnic Blankets

The competition, why we’re the experts, straight to the point.

The Pendelton Outdoor Packable Blanket was, as its name implies, easy to pack. But it was also spacious, comfy to sit on, and stayed dry on damp grass. We also liked the soft and compact Scuddles Picnic Blanket as a budget pick.

Picnicking is romantic. Food is packed up and carefully stacked in a wicker basket or cooler , and then you sit on a cute blanket and nosh and laugh and maybe watch clouds. And said cute picnic blanket is what arguably makes a picnic a picnic—without it, you’re just sitting on grass and getting stains on your trousers. 

I love hosting an outdoor dinner or lunch soirée, so I set out to find the best picnic blankets by testing 13 of them. This involved lifting two 20-pound dumbbells, eating ham sandwiches and sushi, fending off seagulls and ants, and of course, having a grand old time in the great outdoors. The result: I found eight of the best picnic blankets you can buy, so you too can have a picturesque outdoor meal without fear of a grass-stained posterior. 

The Best Overall Picnic Blanket

Pendleton outdoor packable blanket.

This blanket is pretty, packs up easily, and kept me, my friends, and our lunch safe from damp grass and sand. (The seagulls were another story.) It’s also lightweight and has a built-in shoulder strap. 

Another Great Picnic Blanket

Nomadix festival blanket.

I loved this blanket for its cashmere-soft material that stayed dry and was hefty enough not to flutter away with a breeze. It also has loops on the corners for stakes. 

The Best Budget Picnic Blanket

Scuddles outdoor picnic blanket.

Cute, comfy, and portable, this little picnic blanket is less than $30. It was an excellent mat for both park and seaside picnicking. 

The Best Splurge-Worthy Picnic Blanket

Yeti lowlands blanket.

Want a luxe picnicking experience? Break out the Yeti. It’s heavy-duty, it won’t flap off the ground on a windy day, and the top material is super soft. It’s also quite spacious. 

The Best Picnic Blanket for Backpackers

Matador pocket blanket.

This is one utilitarian little blanket. It packs up to be the size of a deck of cards and weighs 3.8 ounces—you could toss it in your daypack and not even know it’s there. It also has built-in stakes so you can pin it down securely wherever you want to take a break from your hike. 

The Best-Looking Picnic Blanket

Picnic time picnic blanket with harness.

If a picnic complete with a wicker basket and real china is your dream, this gorgeous blanket can help you realize your vision. Looks aside, it’s also waterproof, soft, and spacious, which counts for a whole lot. 

Another Pretty Picnic Blanket

Oniva elba tote picnic blanket.

This flannel blanket is a whole lotta cozy, and it looks cute, too. I also loved how easy it was to pack up and go: it has a built-in handle and easy loop closure. 

The Best Large Picnic Blanket

Nemo victory picnic blanket.

If you want to host a veritable picnic blowout, this is the blanket to get. It’s a massive 95 by 95 inches—that’s 63 square feet total. (It could fit three of me lying down each way!) While rolling up a blanket of this size was a challenge, the built-in bag straps made it a little less awkward. 

• Damp Grass Test: I placed each picnic blanket on dewy grass and stuck a 20-pound dumbbell on top. After 20 minutes, I checked the blanket for soaked-through wet spots on the top and bottom. I also sat on the blankets to see if they got damp. Afterward, I packed the blankets up, noting how easy it was to do so.  
• Portability Test: I toted each bag around, noting if it was heavy and if the carrying straps were comfortable.  
• Beach Picnic Test: I took the picnic blankets to the beach for a real picnic (complete with potato chips and a ham sandwich one day, and sushi and grapes another). In between fending off hungry seagulls, I noted if the blankets were comfy to sit on, if they felt cramped, and if the sand shook off easily afterward. 

Picnic Blankets That Folded Into a Bag Were the Easiest to Pack

The post-picnic cleanup is the un-fun part of picnicking. You’re left tucking sweaty prosciutto into a plastic bag and deciding whether to finish off a chunk of cheese now or bring it home, where it will inevitably molder in the fridge. With all of this to think about, packing up the picnic blanket should be the least of your worries. 

As someone who can’t fold a towel or bedsheet to save my life, I loved picnic blankets that were easy to fold back up—even better if it was into a self-contained bag. The Pendleton was one such blanket: I just refolded it where it was creased, zipped it up, and it was ready to tote away. Rolled blankets, like the Baggu , were more difficult to pack. I had to squeeze the air out as I rolled, bringing me back to my days as a Girl Scout trying to wrangle my sleeping bag back into its carrying pouch. After a few failed attempts rolling the Oniva Waterproof Stadium Blanket Picnic Blanket , I wound up scrunching it up and shoving it into the bag in defeat. Harnesses were also largely a pain, since I struggled to fold blankets small enough to fit them back in, and wound up just chucking everything helter-skelter into my tote bag . 

Soft, Large Picnic Blankets Were the Most Comfortable

It may sound trite, but I loved soft, comfy picnic blankets. If I’m going to be sitting on the ground, I want to mitigate discomfort as best I can. While some blankets like the CG Gear Sand-Free Picnic Mat prioritized keeping sand off and others attempted to be utilitarian chic with ripstop construction, they just weren’t comfortable to sit on. The CG Gear blanket was itchy and left patterned imprints on my leg, and the Baggu ripstop material felt crunchy and tacky to the touch. Instead, I preferred the soft, cashmere-like topsides of the nomadix and Yeti Lowlands blankets. I could lounge on my side and feel like a Roman emperor plucking grapes on a cushy ottoman rather than a bug-bitten gal fending off ants on an itchy blanket. Picnicking is an attempt to elevate eating outside to a romantic experience, and the picnic blanket should match that vibe. 

Speaking of comfort, most of the blankets I tested were around 60 by 70 inches when opened and could comfortably fit two to three people, plus food. In other words, if you want to have a picnic party with five-plus friends, you might want two blankets. The exception was the Nemo , which is a whopping eight by eight feet—the limo of picnic blankets. 

Most Picnic Blankets Were Somewhat Waterproof

My testing included laying the blankets on dewy grass and putting 20-pound dumbbells on top. After 20 minutes, I removed the dumbbells and checked the blankets for damp spots. Spoiler alert: Nearly all of them remained dry. The exceptions were the CG Gear blanket, which is porous (it’s made this way so sand can slip through), and the Matador, which is made of thin material. The Baggu wasn’t damp on top, but the underside had some visible splotches where dew soaked into it.

The Criteria: What to Look for in a Picnic Blanket

A picnic blanket should be comfortable to sit on, spacious, and easily packable. I especially liked blankets with built-in carrying pouches—they were easy to re-pack and I didn’t have to worry about losing the carrying bag or harness. A good picnic blanket should also stay dry; winding up with a wet or grass-stained bottom isn’t what I want from a picnic. If it can also be used on the beach, that’s a win in my book. 

What we liked: This lightweight blanket easily folded into a bag, complete with a handle and shoulder strap. It was also comfy to sit on, stayed dry on damp grass and relatively sand-free on the beach, and fit three people comfortably. Oh, and it comes in a few fun colors and patterns and is reasonably priced. What more could I ask for? It had to be a winner. 

What we didn’t like: It is light, so it’s best to weigh it down on the corners if it’s breezy. 

• Folded dimensions: 17 x 14.5 x 3.5 inches
• Unfolded dimensions: 60 x 72 inches
• Materials: Polyester
• Weight: 1.15 pounds
• Cleaning: Machine-washable
• PHOTO: Serious Eats / Grace Kelly

What we liked: I loved the silky, soft surface of this picnic blanket (and the fun patterns!). It has loops on the corners for stakes (which are not included), but it’s also heavy enough that it stays flat even on a breezy beach. While it doesn’t have a carrying case or pouch, it folds up small enough to slip into a backpack or tote. 

What we didn’t like: There is no carrying case or pouch, and I couldn’t find cleaning instructions.

• Folded dimensions: Folded as small as possible, it's 9.25 x 7.25 x 2.5 inches
• Weight: 2.2 pounds
• Cleaning: Not specified

What we liked: This lightweight blanket folds up easily into a neat little roll with a handle. The surface was soft and plush and comfy to sit on, even when a rock snuck into the sand underneath. My sister and I had plenty of room to enjoy our beach picnic lunch, too. Plus, it’s less than $20 and comes in a few sizes. 

What we didn’t like: This isn’t a deal-breaker because it wasn’t a real test, but my cat had a grand time attacking this blanket and it did fray easily. It’s also quite light, enough that I had to get a few rocks to hold it down at the beach. It’s also on the smaller side. 

• Folded dimensions: 12.25 x 7.5 x 8 inches
• Unfolded dimensions: 60 x 60 inches
• Materials: Acrylic, cotton
• Weight: 1.3 pounds

What we liked: This is almost like a quilt—it’s that soft, cushy, and comfy. “I’d use it for my blanket at night,” I wrote in my notes. I admit I was tempted to lie down and take a nap on it. But for the good of this review (and my job security), I stayed awake. Okay, back to what else was great about it: It stayed dry in damp grass and, since it’s hefty, it didn’t move a lick even on a gusty beach day. It was also surprisingly easy to roll up and tuck back into its bag, which sports a shoulder strap. 

What we didn’t like: It’s big and it’s heavy—not ideal for a blanket you might want to tote across a park or beach. Not to mention it’s around $200. 

• Folded dimensions: 20.25 x 10.25 x 7 inches
• Unfolded dimensions: 78 x 55 inches
• Materials: Rayon, polyester
• Weight: 6.13 pounds
• Cleaning: Machine-washable and dryer-safe

What we liked: If your idea of a picnic is eating some backpacking food trailside on a hiking adventure, this is the blanket for you. It’s tiny, weighs less than an avocado (I actually weighed an avocado to confirm this), and has built-in stakes to keep it taut on the ground. It’s best for solo picnics, though you could squeeze a friend on it if you don’t mind being cozy. 

What we didn’t like: It stained easily and got damp spots. The wind kept ruffling it up at the beach and the stakes don’t stay stuck in the sand—in other words, it’s not a beach-friendly blanket. 

• Folded dimensions: 4.5 x 2.7 x 1.1 inches
• Unfolded dimensions: 63 x 44 inches
• Materials: Polyester with waterproof polyurethane coating (PFA-free), spandex-blend storage bag, metal ground stakes
• Weight: 3.8 ounces
• The Matador had small stakes attached to each corner, which worked well on turf. PHOTO: Serious Eats / Grace Kelly

What we liked: The top of this blanket is soft and woven with a pretty pattern, while the bottom is lined with waterproof material: It’s the best of both worlds. I’d grab this blanket if I wanted to impress my friends or spouse with a dreamy picnic spread (complete with tea cakes, finger sandwiches, and cold lemonade). The weave construction seemed sturdy, too.  

What we didn’t like: I sat on this blanket while wearing black leggings and when I looked down, I was covered in white lint. It also doesn’t have a built-in bag—just a harness, which takes more effort to wrangle.

• Folded dimensions: 15 x 6 x 6.5 inches
• Unfolded dimensions: 60 x 70 inches
• Materials: Cotton, polyester
• Weight: 3.14 pounds

What we liked: The fleece-lined top of this blanket is soft and comfortable (and screams autumnal picnic date). It’s easy to pack, lightweight, and has a built-in handle for toting and a corded loop closure to keep it rolled up. 

What we didn’t like: It smelled skunky the first time I unwrapped it. But after airing it out the scent dissipated. The fleece top collected bits of leaves and grass, and sand took a while to shake off. It’s also not machine-washable.

• Folded dimensions: 13 x 9 x 4 inches
• Unfolded dimensions: 59 x 59 inches
• Materials: Fleece, polyethylene vinyl acetate
• Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Cleaning: Do not machine-wash or dry. Surface-wash with warm water and mild soap by hand only. Do not dry clean. Do not iron.

What we liked: This is the limousine of picnic blankets: It’s big, and it can hold a lot of food and people. While all of the other blankets I tested were around 60 by 70 inches, the Nemo added about 30 inches per side. (And there’s an even larger offering, too, though I think the XL size I tested is big enough.) The top of the blanket was soft and comfortable to sit on, and I liked that it had a built-in strap system to pack it up—trying to fold this thing and fit it into a bag would’ve been a Sisyphean task. The hidden zipper pouch was a nice touch, too—I put my keys and phone in it when I went for a dip in the sea. 

What we didn’t like: If you’re like me and hate drawing attention to yourself in a public place, this blanket could cause you stress. When I tested it at the beach, more than one person stopped to comment on its considerable size (but this also could have been because it was solely myself sitting on it, which looked kinda funny). Sand stuck readily to the bottom, and it was hard to shake out because the blanket was so massive. Packing it back up felt like wrangling a tent, but once I got it folded, hooking the clasps around it was easy. 

• Folded dimensions: 16 x 9 inches
• Unfolded dimensions: 95 x 95 inches
• Materials: Acrylic, PU Foam, EVA
• Weight: 3.8 pounds
• Cleaning: Spot clean when necessary, machine-wash on a gentle cycle if needed
• Rumpl Everywhere Mat : This was a good picnic blanket, but I found the texture a little crunchy. It was also difficult to stuff into the attached bag. 
• Oniva Waterproof Stadium Blanket Picnic Blanket : This was a nice, soft blanket with a fleece-like top, but the separate bag was small, making it tough to repack. 
• CG Gear Sand-Free Picnic Mat : This blanket performed best at the beach since it’s made of porous material that lets sand fall through. But it wasn’t the comfiest blanket I tested, and it got wet on a grassy lawn. 
• Baggu Puffy Picnic Blanket : Cute, but the ripstop construction was crunchy and got damp spots on the underside. It was also hard to roll up because of the puffiness.
• Tiny Land Picnic Blanket : This blanket is actually two separate pieces: a liner and a top blanket. This meant more to carry, and the harness was difficult to slip onto the folded blankets. 

What type of blanket is best for picnics?

A picnic blanket should be large enough to accommodate at least two to three people (plus food!), and it should have a waterproof underside. While you could just use a towel or blanket, it might get soggy on damp grass. It should also be easy to fold up and carry.

What material is good for a picnic blanket?

In our tests, we found polyester, acrylic, or cotton (or better yet, a combo of a waterproof material and a soft one) were the best in terms of comfort and durability. Ripstop was too crunchy and scratchy, and a blanket solely made of polyethylene was too rubbery and textured.  

How big should a picnic blanket be?

A picnic blanket should ideally fit two to three people, plus food. We did find a larger blanket from Nemo that could easily accommodate five to six people if you want to have a larger picnic party. 

• Grace Kelly is a commerce editor at Serious Eats. 
• She has been testing kitchen gear for almost four years. 
• Grace tested picnic blankets by weighing them down with 20-pound weights on damp grass, sitting on them, toting them around, and setting up a picnic on the beach. 

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The 13 Best Travel Blankets to Help You Get Cozy Just About Anywhere

Goodbye sad little airline blankets, hello comfort and style.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying

You May Also Want

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

If you are tired of freezing on airplanes, chilly train rides, or breezy outdoor excursions, then we’ve got you covered (literally). Whether you're embarking on a long-haul flight, hitting the road for a cross-country adventure, or heading out on a camping adventure, a high-quality travel blanket can make all the difference. From lightweight and compact options ideal for cramped airplane seats to larger, more insulated blankets perfect for sleeping under the stars, we've rounded up the best blankets to suit every traveler's needs. 

Our Travel + Leisure team tested 19 travel blankets for comfort, ease of use, durability, and value. We evaluated and compared each option based on overall construction, fabric choice, design features, warmth, and packability. (Read more about our comprehensive testing process below). We will continue testing our picks for six more months to ensure each option’s reliability and durability, and we will update this article if anything should change. Scroll down below to find your next travel blanket guaranteed to make others jealous of how cozy you'll be on your next trip.

Best Overall

Kashwere travel blanket.

This blanket delivers the perfect combination of comfort, durability, and versatility.

The carrying bag is made of the same chenille fabric as the blanket, so it takes some effort to fit the blanket back inside the fuzzy bag.

If you’re a frequent traveler who values comfort, this travel blanket is worth every penny. We gave this Kashwere option a perfect score for being super cozy and comfortable, versatile, and durable. The blanket itself is made of a soft chenille yarn that feels like being wrapped in a cloud, providing a chef’s kiss balance between being warm but not heavy or too breezy. Size-wise, it might not be big enough to wrap you head to toe, but it covers all the important bits when you're sitting down — perfect for planes, cars, or just chilling at home. The fabric held up well after machine-washing and drying, and we thought the zipper on the carrying bag was sturdy. Bonus points: this blanket comes with its own carrying bag made of the same material, so you can double up the use for the packed blanket as a pillow, although it might not always be the easiest to tuck the blanket back inside the bag.

The Details: 32 x 48 inches | Chenille

Travel + Leisure / Elise Wang

Best for Flights

Travelrest 4-in-1 travel blanket.

We love the wearability and portability of this Travelrest option.

We wish it came with a pillow, but it’s not a total dealbreaker.

This blanket feels just like that favorite throw blanket you'd fight your friends over at an Airbnb — soft, plush, and just right for keeping warm on chilly flights. Its standout feature is the poncho style with plenty of room in the sleeves, and it’s made from plush fleece that covered us from neck to ankles. Perfect for car rides, train trips, and flights, or even just lounging at home or at a sports event, this blanket was a breeze to unpack and repack thanks to its laptop case-like zip around and additional drawstring bag. When we rolled it and placed it inside, we were impressed that it packed down to the size of a water bottle. Snag this blanket if you're a busy traveler who hates lugging around bulky blankets!

The Details: 38 x 72 inches | 14 ounces | Plush microfiber

Travel + Leisure / Chantia Murphy

Best for Camping

Yeti lowlands blanket.

From its waterproof material to its sturdy build, it doesn't get any more durable than this blanket.

This is way too large to use on a plane and is better suited for outdoor scenarios like camping trips, picnics, or beach outings.

First off, let's talk size: this blanket is massive, clocking in at about 6.5 by 4.5 feet and weighing nearly six pounds. While it might be a bit too big and heavy for squeezing onto your luggage for a plane trip, it's perfect for car rides or any outdoor adventure — especially camping. The blanket comes with its own carrying case, making it easy to throw with your other travel items. 

One side of the blanket is soft to the touch, while the other is built for toughing it out on the ground. We love that it has a waterproof layer, making it so convenient against spills and soggy ground. We also noticed how durable it is, and we definitely think it will stand up well to pebbled surfaces while camping while still feeling soft and warm. While the price might seem steep at $200, it's worth the investment for its versatility and durability.

The Details: 78 x 55 inches | 5.8 pounds | 65 percent polyester/35 percent rayon (comfort side), 100 percent polyester (utility side)

Travel + Leisure / Stella Yu

Most Portable

Bluehills travel blanket pillow.

It folds neatly into a plush carrying case and features a luggage strap and a clip to attach it to a bag.

If you tend to run cold, this blanket might be too lightweight for you.

Why use a sad airline blanket when you can bring your own? While some of the other blankets on this list are too large to comfortably use on a plane, this one is the perfect portable size. We thought it was super soft and lightweight, but a tad thin — it’s ideal for keeping cozy on a plane or car ride, but maybe not quite warm enough for those who easily get chilly. We appreciated the stress-free packability when it’s time to deplane (no wrestling with a stubborn blanket here!). When you’re ready to pack it up, it folds neatly back into its plush carrying case, which doubles as a cozy pillow after you zip it up. It also features a luggage strap and a clip to attach it to a backpack that makes it convenient to carry.

The Details: 70 x 48 inches | 1.28 pounds | Plush microfiber

Travel + Leisure / Anya Bayerle

Most Versatile

Away the travel blanket.

Featuring thermoregulating technology, this blanket keeps you comfy in any temperature while remaining lightweight.

 Folding a blanket that's almost 6 by 4 feet into itself on a plane is not the easiest task, but once it's packed, it's super lightweight and compact.

Away’s The Travel Blanket is the Goldilocks of travel blankets on our list — it's never too hot, never too cold, and always just right. Made of lightweight nylon, we thought it was like snuggling up in a sleeping bag . It might not be the comfiest material out there, but its size (it stretches across three airplane seats!), breathability, and versatility for any occasion makes up for it. The blanket also has a foot pocket, but we noticed we couldn’t reach it comfortably without being overwhelmed by fabric while we tried it out on a plane because of how large the blanket is, so we think this blanket is better suited for car rides, Airbnb stays when you need extra blankets, or outdoor activities like picnics or camping trips.

The blanket features 37.5 thermoregulating technology to personalize climate control, and we did notice that we never felt chilly or overheated when using it. “If you get hot, 37.5 active particles help to cool you down. If you get cold, these same particles work to warm you up,” according to the product listing on the Away website . Plus, it has some pretty unique features like snaps to attach it to a travel pillow and a strap to hook onto a bag. We also love that the blanket folds into itself, so there isn’t an extra bag you have to carry around.

The Details: 69.5 x 44.5 inches | 1.05 pounds | 100 percent Cocona 37.5 Nylon

Travel + Leisure / Maggie Andrew

Best Cashmere Set

Naked cashmere 4-piece travel set.

This travel set also comes with a pair of cashmere socks, a sleep mask, and a silk pillowcase.

It’s definitely a splurge as the priciest option on this list.

Look no further if you want to travel in style: this set is a luxury sleep kit in a pouch. It comes with cashmere socks and a silk sleep mask, and the silk pouch transforms into a pillowcase when the blanket's inside. Our T+L team member who tested this set was instantly sold when they slipped on the socks, wrapped up in the oversized blanket, and got comfy on a cross-country flight. They even continued to use it at their destination when they got chilly. This blanket feels like a dream — it’s so soft, it's like wrapping yourself in a designer sweater. Priced at $450, it is an investment, but we deem it worth the splurge (and it makes a luxurious gift for the traveler who has everything).  

The Details: 82 x 50 inches | Cashmere

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Most Durable

Eddie bauer packable synthetic throw.

Not only is this blanket highly packable and portable, but it also withstands all sorts of activities, from camping trips to sports events.

The color and style options are loud and bold.

What to Consider: The color and style options are loud and bold. 

This travel blanket is the ultimate all-in-one travel companion. What sets this blanket apart is its perfect balance between puffiness and smoothness; it's soft to the touch, but when it's time to hit the road again, it rolls up effortlessly into its carry bag. It’s so lightweight that we forgot we were even carrying it! It is also clear that this blanket is built to last. Despite our rigorous testing, it stood up to everyday use — including cat claws, car rides, and wash cycles — while staying soft and cozy. It's the perfect blend of lightweight portability and maximum warmth, making it a top choice for travelers.

The Details: 70 x 50 inches | Polyester

Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto

PAVILIA Travel Blanket and Pillow

With its velvety feel, portability, and budget-friendly price tag, this is a solid choice for anyone looking for bang for their buck.

This travel blanket lacks certain premium features compared to others on the market.

This travel blanket is wallet-friendly without compromising on comfort. Made from microfleece polyester, it's soft, lightweight, and velvety, perfect for covering up whether you're sitting or laying down. Its compact size makes it easy to wear on a train or a plane when you don’t want to encroach on the person sitting next to you, but it’s still large enough to cover you and keep you warm. To pack it up, simply fold it a couple of times, zip it into its carrying pouch, and voila — you've got yourself a pillow. Plus, the pouch has a strap for easy carrying, which you can buckle onto a backpack strap or luggage handle. While it might not be the fanciest blanket out there, it holds up well in the wash and should last a few years. And at its price, it's a steal for the comfort and convenience it offers.

The Details: 60 x 43 inches | Microfleece

Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco

Best Puffer

L.l.bean puffer blanket.

This do-it-all camp blanket is perfect for sitting around the fire, sleepovers, movie night, picnics, and more.

The available patterns might not fit everyone’s taste.

Wrapping yourself in this blanket is like snuggling up with a puffer coat: slick and water-resistant but still comfy to the touch. Despite being lightweight, we found that this option kept us nice and toasty without making us feel overheated. Its flexibility made it easy to fold down this blanket into its travel bag, compact enough to match the size of a 40-ounce water bottle. It also features elastic bands on each corner to turn this blanket into a makeshift cape or coat. We love that this blanket is tougher than it looks, holding up all our testing with no signs of wear and tear.

The Details: 75 x 54 inches | 1.7 pounds | Polyester

Travel + Leisure / Ciara Grovert

White+Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap

Suitable for either a flight or a fancy dinner, we love how practical, chic, and versatile this wrap is for several occasions.

Its material is cashmere, so you have to dry clean it.

This White + Warren wrap may just be our new favorite go-to accessory for chilly airplanes. What sets it apart is its versatility, doubling as a cozy blanket for travel or a shawl that you can wear over your shoulders. It's well over five feet in length and though it's not the widest when compared to more traditional blankets, it’s wider than a standard scarf so you can wear it draped over your body or lap to keep warm in transit. The wrap's premium cashmere material adds to its luxe appeal, and that means you can even wear it out to dinner while looking stylish — and you can’t do that with a regular airplane blanket. Bonus points for making it out of a 14-hour travel day packed into a personal item without any wrinkles!

The Details: 81 x 36 inches | Cashmere

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket

This massive blanket offers ample warmth and coverage, and there’s a huge selection of color options.

It’s not the easiest to stuff back into its carrying case, and it’s too large to use on a plane.

We found your next camping companion with the Rumpl The Original Puff. The generous size of this blanket provides lots of cozy comfort whether you’re covering yourself to sleep or laying or sitting on top of it. With 30 color options to choose from, this travel blanket is great for anyone looking for an airy, breathable, and versatile blanket for outdoor use. The included stuff sack adds convenience, though packing it back up requires some effort akin to rolling and tucking a sleeping bag or camping air mattress back into its case. At $125, it's a worthwhile investment for warm camping trips or outdoor activities but may not be practical for frequent air travel due to its large size.

The Details: 75 x 52 inches | 2.1 pounds | Recycled polyester

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Best Insulated

The north face wawona blanket.

This lightweight blanket delivers on warmth and packability.

We found that this blanket is not the most cozy option.

We recommend this water-resistant North Face blanket specifically for outdoor activities and events, making it ideal for travelers seeking a lightweight, packable option that will keep you warm without taking up much space in your bag. The blanket features recycled synthetic insulation that provides warmth but lacks the soft feel of fleece or yarn. Packing and unpacking the blanket were straightforward, and though it took us a little bit of effort to fold the blanket neatly back into the attached carrying bag, once you get it back inside, the bag helps compress the blanket to a compact size that you can stow away in a backpack. The blanket showed no signs of wear or tear after multiple uses and washes, but we do think it has the potential to get snagged or tear if faced with anything sharp.

The Details: 72 x 55.9 inches | 1.5 pounds | Recycled polyester

Travel + Leisure / Henry Yung

Unhide Lil' Marsh Traveler

It feels expensive for how comfortable and soft it is but is super affordable.

It only comes in a few neutral shades of beige, and it does not include any straps or carrying cases.

Cuddly, comfortable, convenient, and cozy — and those are only the adjectives beginning with “C” when describing this blanket. Despite its ability to roll up small, the Unhide Lil’ Marsh Traveler proved to be a large blanket, providing ample coverage with plenty of extra room while sitting or lying down. This would make a great option for a plane or car ride for how thin and soft it is without any excessive bulk to bog you down or get in your neighbor’s way. We found that this blanket maintained its softness and durability throughout testing, remaining in pristine condition even after frequent use and washes. It can also easily fit into a tote bag or carry-on due to its thin material, making it easy to travel with when you have limited space but want something soft and snuggly to cover yourself with.

The Details: 60 x 50 inches | 1.7 pounds | Polyester

Travel + Leisure / Tatiana Kennedy

Travel + Leisure. /Tatiana Kennedy

Other Travel Blankets We Liked

Four additional travel blankets we tested couldn’t quite earn a spot on our list due to minor issues but still had notable features that may meet the needs of some travelers.

Forestfish Fleece Throw Blanket : Priced at under $20, this blanket offers a good value for those seeking a smaller, lightweight travel blanket, especially suitable for shorter road trips. While it was adequate for drives, it may not offer enough insulation for plane or train rides with less temperature control.

Therm-a-rest Honcho Poncho Wearable Hoodie Blanket : This blanket maintains warmth without overheating, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. While its wearability adds convenience, it does not offer much coverage in poncho mode.

Sagefinds Soft Travel Blanket with Bag : Although deceivingly thin, this option offers a step up from airline blankets, providing warmth and breathability without being overly luxurious. It's deemed best for budget-conscious travelers seeking portability.

Eversnug Travel Blanket and Pillow : We like the versatility of being able to use this item as both a blanket and a pillow. However, it’s not the best choice for taller people because it’s on the smaller size.

Our T+L team tested 19 travel blankets in everyday travel scenarios to assess comfort, ease of use, durability, and value. We followed a comprehensive examination to evaluate each option, including overall construction, fabric choice, design features, warmth, and packability. We used the blankets in a variety of practical scenarios including traveling by plane, train, and car; during outdoor events; and even while lounging at home to determine comfort, functionality, versatility, and durability. 

We took notes on how heavy or lightweight the blankets felt, how warm or breathable they were, how large or compact they were, how easy it was to pack or fold them, and any unique features they had to make them more portable or comfortable. For the blankets that were machine-washable, we washed them at least once during the initial testing period to see how they held up and if the materials changed at all.

Our long-term plan includes testing for an additional six months to monitor each blanket’s performance and durability in different travel scenarios. As we continue to test the blankets in various real-world settings, we will continue to take notes on portability, practicality, and any wear and tear, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of each travel blankets’ reliability. We will update these results if our findings should change.

Tips for Buying Travel Blankets 

Think of your intended use.

When buying a travel blanket, consider your intended use carefully. If you're primarily using it for flights, prioritize coziness and a compact size — you won’t want something too large or too bulky that will take up too much space in your personal item or spill into the neighboring seat. Look for blankets made from soft materials that provide warmth without being too heavy to carry. Opt for lightweight options that can easily fit into your bag and keep you comfortable during long flights.

On the other hand, if you're planning to use the blanket for camping or outdoor activities, prioritize warmth and durability. Consider blankets that are larger, thicker, and possibly waterproof (or at least water-resistant) to withstand various weather conditions. Look for materials like fleece or wool that provide insulation and keep you warm even in chilly outdoor settings.

Additionally, pay attention to the dimensions of the blanket. Some blankets are designed for one person, while others are larger and suitable for two. Choose the size that best fits your needs, whether you prefer individual coverage or sharing with a travel companion.

Keep portability in mind

When you're on the hunt for a travel blanket, don't forget about portability. Look out for ones that come with a handy carrying case, especially those with luggage sleeves or clips that you can easily attach to your backpack or suitcase. Having a dedicated carrying case helps keep the blanket compact and protected when not in use, preventing it from taking up too much space in your luggage or personal bag. Some blankets can even double as pillows when you fold them up into their cases. Additionally, it helps to not carry one more additional item (look ma, no hands!) and makes it effortless to bring along during travel.

Look at special features

Traveling is hard enough, so when shopping for a travel blanket, consider special features that enhance functionality and comfort. Look for blankets with built-in footrest pockets, which provide extra warmth and coziness during long journeys. Zippered compartments are handy for storing small items like headphones or travel documents, keeping them within easy reach.

You can also opt for blankets that can fold into a pillow, offering versatility and saving space in your luggage. Waterproof blankets are ideal for outdoor adventures, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable in unpredictable weather conditions. Thermoregulating blankets help maintain a comfortable temperature, keeping you warm without overheating. Blankets with sleeves and hoods allow you to wear them like a garment, providing maximum coverage and warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ultimately, the size of your optimal travel blanket depends on your personal preferences, intended use, and travel requirements. Determine if you'll be using the blanket alone or sharing it with a travel companion. Look for a blanket that provides adequate coverage for your body lengthwise and widthwise, and think about whether you’ll be using the blanket draped over your lap or shoulders on an airplane or to snuggle your entire body under while sleeping in a tent. Check the dimensions to ensure it will fully cover you while sitting or lying down, especially if you're tall or prefer extra room.

It’s also best to consider how you'll be using the blanket. If it's primarily for air travel, a smaller size that fits comfortably in your carry-on or weekender bag may be ideal. For camping or outdoor activities, a larger size for added warmth and comfort may be more suitable.

Packing a travel blanket is relatively simple and depends on its design and size. If the blanket comes with a carrying case or pouch, fold or roll it neatly and tuck it into the case. Some blankets are designed to fold into themselves, transforming into a compact pillow or storage bag, making them easy to pack. If there's no specific carrying case, fold the blanket into a manageable size and place it in your luggage or travel bag like you would do for a sweatshirt or pair of pants. Consider using compression packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags to further reduce bulk and save space if it’s a bulkier blanket.

Washing a travel blanket typically depends on the material and care instructions provided by the manufacturer. In general, most travel blankets made of synthetic materials like polyester or fleece are machine-washable in cold water on a gentle cycle. After washing, air drying is usually recommended to maintain the integrity of the fabric and prevent shrinking or damage from high heat. There are also some cashmere blankets on this list that are dry-clean only. Be sure to check the care label on the blanket for specific instructions and any additional precautions.

When it comes to traveling, it pays to be comfortable. These items will make your next trip a little easier and a lot cozier, whether you're traveling by train, bus, or plane.

Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow : With a plush memory foam filling, this pillow has an asymmetrical design that can accommodate various neck, chin, and head support preferences. It's no surprise that it came out on top during our best travel pillows tests.

Spanx AirEssentials Tapered Pant : Traveling in both comfort and style has never been easier. This sleek set is crafted from a lightweight and buttery-soft fabric that doesn’t crease or wrinkle.

alo Accolade Hoodie : With an oversized, unisex fit and laid-back dropped-shoulder style, this super cozy hoodie features a soft interior fabric that's ideal for lounging moments and travel days.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

An expert on shopping trends and a frequent traveler, Maddie Michalik has been professionally reviewing products since 2014. For this story, she combed through T+L’s detailed testing insights for various travel blankets, reading through testing feedback for each blanket, then referenced product descriptions and additional research to create a comprehensive roundup of the best travel blankets today.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

7 Best Picnic Blankets of 2024 for the Park, Beach, or Camping

Not every blanket makes the cut as a true picnic blanket.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Is there anything nicer than going for a Sunday afternoon picnic with the fam? You've got the salad packed and ready to go, a sunny cocktail in the thermos for Mom and Dad, and freshly sliced watermelon just waiting for the kids to dig in. But no picnic is complete without the blanket!

Best Picnic Blankets

best overall picnic blanket

Zaze extra large picnic outdoor blanket.

best investment

Geometry beach blanket.

best for fall picnics

Portableand picnic & outdoor blanket.

If you've ever fallen victim to grabbing the nearest throw blanket and packing it along for a picnic, then you'll know the value in having a dedicated picnic blanket that's designed for that purpose. Whether you're laying the blanket out to sit with the kids on a sunny afternoon, prepping for an alfresco dinner on the beach, or gearing up for sunrise coffee on your camping trip , you'll want to have a suitable blanket on hand for your adventure.

We've researched, reviewed, and even tested tons of picnic blankets on the market, evaluating their durability, comfort, size, waterproofing, and much more, to come up with this list of the best of the best (to learn more about the main factors we looked for, scroll to the end of this story). To make it as easy as possible to find the perfect picnic blanket, we've even categorized them for you. So get the basket packed (we've got plenty of picnic food ideas to help with that too). Your perfect picnic is just one click away.

If gingham isn't the perfect picnic print, then we don't know what is. But this blanket is far from just cute (but, really, it's SO cute), it's incredibly functional too.

For starters, the ZAZE picnic blanket is massive — a whopping 80" x 80". That should be plenty of room for four adults to sit or six to eight kids, with food included, of course. It also features a three-ply construction. The bottom layer is waterproof, so you'll never have to worry about pesky dew for an early morning sit. The middle layer is a comfortable cotton that adds a bit of padding, and the top layer is polyester, which also acts as a water-resistant surface, so there's no need to worry about spills. We were also super impressed with the stitching on this blanket. Almost quilt-like, the stitching ensures that this blanket will stand the test of time.

Of course, portability is also a huge factor when it comes to picnic blankets, and this one delivers. It conveniently rolls up with a Velcro closure that reviewers say is quite sturdy. Reviewers also mention that this blanket is perfect for just about anywhere, from sandy beaches to picnics in the park.

Positive review: "Los Angeles had a lot of rainfall and storms the past few months, and I was itching for a picnic (especially with all the greenery that's been sprouting as a result of the heavy rainfall). The picnic blanket is large, just as pictured, waterproof, and super easy to clean! Folding it is a bit of a hassle and is reminiscent of folding up a sleeping bag. Either way, highly recommend! Great purchase."

It's a bit of a splurge in comparison to some of the other blankets on our list, but this option from the environmentally sustainable brand Geometry is the best bet for serious picnickers. This beach blanket was made for just about any terrain. While it repels sand well, it also holds up great against grass, rocks, sticks, and other underbrush. If you often find yourself on an impromptu sit in nature, stash this in your car and thank yourself later.

Since it was designed as a beach blanket, however, it has a leg up in the absorbency and quick-dry departments. Instead of a polyester layer that repels water, the Geometry blanket is made from recycled materials that instead absorb water and rush the drying process. This can be a huge advantage if you don't want to constantly wipe up after kids, pets, or any other mess makers.

As much as we love this blanket, though, there are two areas where we were a bit disappointed. One, this blanket measures 62" x 65", slightly smaller than the competition. It could fit 2 to 4 adults comfortably, but adding in food with a group of 4 would be a squeeze. It's also a bit thinner, and while we don't have much concern about the durability, that might impact comfort.

PortableAnd Picnic & Outdoor Blanket

As much as we love the waterproofing of polyester picnic blankets, the material isn't conducive to heat, so they can get pretty chilly when the temperatures drop. For fall picnics—and maybe even winter picnics on mild days—you'll want this fleece blanket.

Like the ZAZE blanket, this buffalo check option has a three-ply design with a waterproof bottom layer and sponge-fill middle for cushion. However, the top layer on this blanket is fleece, making it extra warm and cozy on fall days. If you live in a wet climate but still want to enjoy a picnic on a chilly day, you'll have no worries about water seeping up through this blanket. We also love the faux leather carrying straps that make it incredibly easy to pack away.

While we love the fleece top layer on this blanket, it is a bit of a double-edged sword. The fabric isn't waterproof, so we'd advise opting for something else if you've got kids or pets on the move while on your picnic. It's also on the smaller side, coming in at just 59" x 69".

Positive review: "I've taken this blanket to the beach and park several times now, and each time I've been grateful for this large blanket. It comfortably fits 4 people sitting, or 2-3 people if you want to lay down. It is soft on one side, with waterproof material on the bottom side (have not had any issue with wet bottoms sitting at the park even in damp areas!). It is so easy to put away, simply roll it up and use the belt strap to buckle it tight, and it's easy to clean as well (have had no issues giving it a quick wash in the tub after using it). Amazing blanket for the price!"

Scuddles Extra Large Picnic Blanket

While we love the extra-large size of the ZAZE blanket, not everyone needs that much space. If you're only packing for two adults or just a few kids or maybe even just yourself, a smaller blanket should be plenty of space. The Scuddles picnic blanket offers a whopping eight size options, starting with 52" x 57" and going up to 60" x 79".

It has a similar three-ply construction to most of the other blankets on this list, with a PEVA waterproof bottom, soft foam core, and acrylic top layer. Just like the ZAZE blanket, the Scuddles option prevents water from seeping into the foam core from both the top and the bottom, making it perfect for kids and pets. The built-in carrier is also similar to the ZAZE blanket, but this one includes a pocket that reviewers love to use for their phone, wallet, or any other small items.

Many reviewers did note, however, that the Scuddles blanket didn't brush clean as well as they'd hope, with debris sticking to the acrylic fabric. It was also mentioned a handful of times that the blanket is thinner than expected, which in addition to being a little uncomfortable also meant that some sticks and weeds found their way through.

Positive review: "This little picnic blanket… I adore it. I have owned it for a couple weeks now and we have used it every day since. I have three young kids and we use it outside and at the park! I have put it on wet grass and have not gotten wet which is a huge plus for me."

WEKAPO Beach Blanket

A picnic on the beach calls for a blanket that's far different from one you might take on your camping trip in the woods. While you might not need a thick blanket, you will want one that quickly ditches any sand and water that might find its way on your blanket.

This 100% nylon blanket feels similar to a travel camping hammock. It repels sand with a quick brush or shake and is water resistant. It's a thin, one-layer blanket, but you shouldn't need much padding just laying on sand. The nylon is ripstop and the seams are triple stitched to reenforce durability. We also love that this blanket comes in three sizes, has an attached compression pack for easy storage, and is designed with weight-able pocket corners on the underside, which you can fill with sand so that you'll never lose it on a windy day.

Reviewers also mention how lightweight and easy this blanket is to travel with. Additionally, since the material is so thin, it's super breathable, which is a necessity for a hot beach day.

The only complaint many reviewers had with this beach blanket was that it faded from sun exposure overtime, but that's to be expected with frequent use. And while it makes a phenomenal beach blanket, we'd never recommend using this when camping or on rough terrain.

Positive review: "I loved how compact & easy [it is] to take with you. It’s light weight, sand doesn’t stick to it and it didn’t get hot. BUT the best part are those handy dandy lil pockets on the corners, you just fill with sand and it stays in place!! Don’t even need the stakes. I loved this blanket so much, I also ordered the larger size also for when the family joins us on the beach. Awesome small business too, which I try to use whenever I can. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!"

UNIKOME Packable Camping Blanket

Looking for a blanket to tuck away with you on a camping trip ? This one will have you cozy as can be, whether you use it as a spot to eat dinner or to curl up in by the fire.

This camping blanket is made with a three-ply design but features more padding in the core in comparison to other blankets we reviewed and the same polyester top and bottom layer. This extra padding insulates from the cold ground to keep users warm, while the polyester layers repel water. When not in use, the blanket rolls up like a sleeping bag and packs into a lumbar pillow shape that weighs just two pounds. It has corner loops to stake into the ground, as well as a cape clip if you'd prefer to wear it as a more traditional blanket.

Positive review: "I'm pretty sure my parents had a blanket like this when I was a kid. This has a great weight, nice little cushion to it which makes it comfortable to sit on, folds up easily, and looks great. Perfect for camping, but the beach, picnics, blanket forts (as the mat), and more too. This will be kept in my car so we are always ready for relaxing outside. I'm going to order another to keep with our camp supplies."

Bersuse Turkish Towel

Calling all frequent flyers! Sometimes you don't have the room to pack a hefty picnic blanket, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy your time outside comfortably! These Turkish towels are traditionally used as beach blankets but work just as well when you need a packable, lightweight blanket to take on the go.

Of course, we'd be remiss if we didn't mention how well this blanket repels sand. It is designed for the beach, after all! While it isn't waterproof, it features a quick-dry technology that you might find you like even more. And with a length of 82 inches, you'll be able to fit quite a few on this comfy towel.

The flip side of having a blanket that's so lightweight and breathable is that it doesn't stand up to rough terrain very well. Make no doubt about it: This is not the blanket you want for a picnic in the woods. But for everyday use in the park, on the ball field, or at the beach, it should be just fine.

Positive review: "I wanted something that would be soft (not plastic-y) and would be big enough for two people and this was perfect. We comfortably fit two of us on it and it's very soft against the skin. It also didn't add any heat despite using it on a hot day. It held up well after washing in cold water and drying on a medium heat. Plus it's lightweight and compact so it was easy to travel with and didn't take up too much space in my bag at all. It's not sand-proof though so sand collected on the top and quite a bit came home with us via the blanket."

What We Looked for When Selecting the Best Picnic Blankets

Waterproofing

A great picnic blanket should not only be able to stand up to the spills and stains your family and friends might inflict on the top layer, but it should offer a layer of protection from the ground as well. Whether you're using the blanket on a morning when there's still fresh dew on the grass or a wet climate on a cool day, you'll want to be sure that your bottom is protected from any moisture that might seep through. While most of these blankets are waterproof or water resistant, some feature quick-dry technology that's more suitable for some circumstances, such as picnickers who have just taken a dip in an ocean or lake.

Some picnic blankets offer size options, but many do not. First step: think about how many people you can usually expect to use this blanket. Anything 60" x 60" and smaller is only suitable for two adults or up to four small children. If you're looking for a blanket that'll fit the whole family, you should opt for one that's at least 70" x 70" or prepare to get two blankets to lay side by side.

Let's be real: No one wants to spend a fortune on a good picnic blanket. That's why we stayed in the under $50 price range, save for one special splurge that's perfect for the frequent picnicker. Save your money for travel, food, and great wine to go with your picnic!

Hannah Jones is the Commerce Editor for Country Living. Her eye is always on the next up-and-coming products to include in gift guides and she's ready to test everything from dog beds to garden tools for product reviews. When she’s not scoping out the latest and greatest items on the market, you can find her hanging with her two rescue dogs.

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The Best Picnic Blankets for Lunch at the Beach, Park, and Beyond

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

In art history class there was one painting subject that always caught my attention. I wish I could say it was an important historical event or a religious scene. I work at a food website though, so of course it was a picnic. From Manet to Monet, everyone was painting outdoor lunch tableaus. But I was always preoccupied by one question: Where were all the picnic blankets? Most guests in Impressionist picnic depictions seemed content to risk wet grass, dirty grapes (because in art picnics, there's always an absurd amount of grapes), tarnished summer whites, and sore seats.

Pendleton Roll-Up Blanket

Scuddles Picnic Blanket 60x79

Picnic Time Zip-Up Picnic Blanket

This summer that does not have to be you. Whether you prefer a natural fiber blanket or you'd like a cushy, waterproof barrier instead, we've found the best picnic blankets available so that you can get out and rival any painterly pastoral scene with your leisurely alfresco summer lunch .

Blankets for the great outdoors, I found out, come in almost as many shapes, sizes, and patterns as those for inside the home do. There are blankets that come in collapsible totes, blankets that come with handsome leather handles, blankets that have zippered pockets for stashing keys and phones. Of course, blanket preferences are varied, but I identified some constant variables in my search. I wanted to find the best picnic blankets that are simple to care for, easy to carry, well made, and comfy to sit on. That way, all the focus can go to the spiked ginger-lemonade soda cocktails and the potato salads . Oh, and buying enough grapes.

The Best Picnic Blanket If You Have Kids: Basil Bangs Love Rug

This cheery picnic blanket by Australian brand Basil Bangs boasts one water-resistant side made out of a soft canvas, and one heavier-duty polyester side that's completely waterproof. There's a little bit of cushion, which makes this blanket especially great for toddling little ones. The circular shape also made it easy to seat a large number of people comfortably without relegating anyone to a weird corner where you're half on the blanket half on the itchy grass.

It's six feet in diameter, but the whole thing folds up into a tidy satchel, with shoulder straps and a small pocket in the back for stashing a phone or keys while you're on the go. I tested the straps walking around the office and found their generous width and soft fabric to be much more comfortable than some of the others; this is especially key as carrying picnic gear coincides with sunburnt shoulder season. When put to the test, the Love Rug resisted splashed milk, and wiped clean with a warm, soapy towel easily. When you're not picnicking, it easily doubles as a living room play mat or nap spot for small children.

Basil Bangs Love Rug

Best Picnic Blanket For Chilly Climates: Pendleton Roll-Up Blanket

If you live somewhere with weather that requires a sweater even during prime melon salad season , look to Pendleton. The Portland, Oregon based brand has been milling pure virgin wool since 1863, and it shows in their roll-up picnic blankets.

Considering its plush coziness, the blanket I tested was surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to tote it along by the handle to a park or trailhead. The handsome tartan patterns come in melanges of greys, blues, or reds—all choices that would look just as good on the front porch or deck year round. The one thing I didn't love about the blanket was its care instructions: It's dry clean only. However, when I accidentally spilled a little tea on it, it came off with a damp cloth without leaving a mark. Plus, the dyed wool of the topside is pretty forgiving of darker spills while the black nylon backing wipes clean easily. Still, if you have kids (or expect the red wine to be flowing particularly freely at your picnic), this might not be the right blanket for you.

The Best Multi-Use Picnic or Beach Blanket: Fuera Adventure Blanket

Unlike the other blankets I tested, this handwoven blanket from fair-trade focused retailer Citizenry does not have any kind of handle, strap, or tie to aid in easy toting. That's the only drawback though: at $75 at the time of writing, I was happy to find a stylish blanket that would be just as at home on the foot of a bed or a sofa as it would be in the park. At nearly six feet by six feet, I was surprised by how lightweight it was tucked into a picnic tote, but I did decide that the lack of hefty cushioning makes it an appropriate park or beach blanket rather than something suited for rocky or rugged terrain. One of the best parts of this blanket: It's made of machine washable cotton so you don't have to worry too much about spills or grass stains.

Fuera Adventure Blanket

The Citizenry

The Best Budget-Friendly Blanket: Scuddles Picnic Blanket

The Scuddles blanket has three layers: a soft, woven acrylic textile on top, an internal foam layer, and a PEVA waterproof backing on the bottom. It folds up into a contained to-go velcro tote that also has pockets for any sort of picnic miscellanea you might need to throw in. It is one of the top reviewed picnic blankets on Amazon. Scuddles blankets come in sizes that can accommodate anywhere from two people to a whole family, but the most expensive options are only around $31.

The Best Water-Resistant Outdoor Blanket for Compact and Lightweight Travel: Matador Pocket Blanket

The Matador blanket is a great waterproof picnic blanket for sitting emergencies. It's inexpensive, foldable, and lightweight, making it easy to slip into a bag, purse, or even a back pocket. Let's be honest: It won't provide you with any cushion, but it does include built-in metal stakes, so you can tack it into the ground and never worry about it flying away on windy days.

Matador Pocket Blanket 2.0

The Cutest Affordable Blanket: Picnic Time Outdoor Zip-Up Picnic Blanket Tote

A list of picnic blankets wouldn't be complete without an entry in red and white gingham, the quintessential picnic blanket pattern. This Picnic Time blanket folds up and slides into a slim tote bag that's easy to sling over your shoulder; it doesn't even look like an outdoor picnic blanket. And once the fun's over, you can throw it in the washing machine, zip it up, and hand it on a doorknob or coat rack until next time.

How I Tested:

I carried the blankets around by their various straps and handles, or if that wasn't an option I just rolled them up and stuffed under my arms or into a tote to test their bulkiness and weight. Then I rolled them out on an uneven surface and sat down with a few friends to see how well we could fit and what the cushioning was like.

Factors Evaluated:

I wanted to find a picnic blanket with enough durability to withstand regular use on grass or sand. While the super plasticky blankets are of course the most durable at first, I also wanted something that would wear well over time, and be useful in other situations. That could mean it's cozy enough to be used as a camping blanket, chic enough to drape over an ottoman or the end of a bed, or cushioned enough for babies to play on at home.

Most of the picnic blankets I tested had carrying straps of some sort. While this wasn't a must, it was definitely a plus—especially if those carrying straps could go over a shoulder, leaving hands free for carrying picnic baskets .

Picnic blankets are going to endure more messes and harsh conditions than the average towel or blanket: You're going to tote them to the park or the beach, where they'll sit on top of sand or dirt. You'll eat packed lunches on them, often with children. For this reason, I did not want a blanket that was difficult to clean or showed messes easily. Fabrics that wiped clean or could be thrown into the washer were the best options.

I wanted to feel like I could lounge on my picnic blanket for a whole leisurely afternoon without getting stiff. A little bit of weight to the weave also means warmth, which is nice if the day gets blustery and you want to drape the blanket over your shoulders instead of sitting on it.

We're not testing something that's for pure function here, like whisks . A picnic is a leisure activity, done purely for pleasure. As such, I am not interested in a blanket that's an eyesore even if it fulfills every other category. Style was an important consideration.

Other Products I Tested

The California Picnic Blankets ){: rel="sponsored" target="_blank" isAffiliateLink="true"} have attractive leather carriers, a waterproof backing, and fun, summery stripes. While I was impressed by the size-to-cost ratio of the both of the ones I tested (the extra large was 87" by 67" and only $36) I found the fabric of both to be thin and scratchy. The blankets also didn't lay flat well due to the puckering of the waterproof bottom layers, and one of the two leather carriers I tested had a finicky, sticky belt like closure.

The most beautiful blanket out of the bunch was the Jenni Kayne Linen Picnic Blanket . Crafted from a soft tan washed linen with a vegetable-tanned leather strap closure, it was easily the most elegant of the bunch. However, while a blanket that could double as a throw (like the winning Fuera Adventure Blanket) was a plus, I couldn't imagine putting this one on the ground. The tan linen is so light it would easily pick up dirt, and the care instructions said dry-clean only. At a cool $225, it was hard to imagine feeling good about a day spent on too-wet grass or a slightly muddy spot. I don't want to be worrying about the preciousness of my seat during leisure time. That said, if you're based in CA (like the designer Jenni Kayne is) or somewhere else coastal, this would be a great blanket for the beach.

The Oniva Picnic Time Vista Outdoor Blanket was the most affordable of the bunch at $24 at the time of writing and it folded up neatly into a handy shoulder tote. However, the synthetic fabric and red check was too reminiscent of the plasticky kid tablecloths of my elementary school days. At 59 by 51 inches, it also wasn't as roomy as some of my favorites.

The Takeaway

Unlike the kitchen equipment we usually review, picnic blanket preferences are highly subjective. That being said, quality fabric, thoughtful design, and easy carrying and care are important to every intrepid picnicker out there. If you're bringing kids along, go with the Basil Bangs Love Rug , which doubles as a play mat and has a bit more cushion. If you want something to use as a throw as well, the handsome Fuera Adventure Blanket is perfect for you. And if you're after an easy-to-carry, waterproof, grown up blanket, there's nothing quite like a classic. Pendleton Roll-Up Blanket .

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I’m An Avid Picnicker — 5 Picnic Blankets I’ve Tried And Loved

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1. Recycled Wool Picnic Blanket, The Tartan Blanket Company

2. valatzu blanket, begg x co, 3. original puffy blanket, rumpl, 4. dii homestore blanket, 5. original blanket, pretty rugged gear.

I’ve always loved a picnic, but it was during the COVID lockdowns that I really started to love them. It was also around this time that I started to take my picnics a lot more seriously. No more stuffing some hastily grabbed sandwiches in a bag and heading out, now I plan my picnics and make sure I have foods I love in there. I also insist on a proper picnic basket and a good quality blanket.

Having a good rustic basket and a blanket makes the experience feel cozier and more special. But it’s not just about creating an atmosphere for the picnic. The blanket is so important because no one wants to sit on soggy sand or damp grass. No one wants to be uncomfortable when out enjoying a picnic. A good picnic blanket also looks really good and sets the scene for your picnic, especially if you’ll be taking photos.

This blanket feels so soft, it’s no surprise to find out it’s made with 70 percent recycled wool. There’s a waterproof backing on the blanket so you can set it down anywhere without having to worry about any dampness on the ground. Apart from its softness and practicality, what I really love about this blanket is how portable it is. You can buy a picnic carrier to go with the blanket, which is a strap that fits around the blanket once it’s rolled up, with a handle for carrying.

You can sling it over your shoulder and take it anywhere. You can even get initials embroidered onto the blanket. It’s washable in the machine on a wool or delicate cycle, and it doesn’t lose any of its brightness or color. The waterproof backing on the blanket means you can use it on any kind of ground, including the beach, but it’s so soft and warm you can also turn it over and lay it over your knees or wrap it around you.

The blanket comes in a variety of colors, all in a plaid design that reflects the Scottish landscapes the blankets are made in. But perhaps the biggest plus when buying a blanket from The Tartan Blanket Company is the knowledge you’re buying from a sustainable company. From the recycled materials to biodegradable packaging, The Tartan Blanket Company is dedicated to doing their bit for the future of the planet.

A traditional lambswool cashmere blanket, the Valatzu blanket from Begg x Co  is a blanket that takes you back to how we used to picnic, only a bit more luxurious. This one isn’t waterproof and if it feels like it’s too good to put on the ground and sit on, I hear you!

It’s a soft cozy blanket that’s lovely to wrap yourself up in around a barbecue or on the sofa at home, but as I said, I like my picnics to be special affairs these days. With that in mind, I would lay this one down on some soft grass and sit on it. After all, a blanket is meant to be used, and this one feels so lovely and soft to sit on. There’s no better way to enjoy a picnic than with the soft thick luxury of a good blanket as your base.

The traditional stitching around the edge of the blanket gives it the authenticity of old durable and usable blankets, which this certainly is. The colors are muted tones, which reflect the landscape around the small-scale factory they are produced in. The large squares of chocolate brown, black, and white represent the earth, the dark nights, and the white skies of a cold day. These blankets are made in Scotland and are shipped for free anywhere in the world.

If you want to travel with your own personal blanket, want to picnic solo, or just like having your own sitting space, the original puffy blanket from Rumpl  is the ideal traveling partner. It’s completely waterproof, so you don’t need to worry about where you place it and the blanket can deal with any drink spills or food drops from your picnic. Everything just wipes right off. This original waterproof blanket feels more like a sleeping bag than a traditional blanket, which means it’s still great for wrapping around you, especially if you’re camping, as it has the technology to keep you nice and warm.

It has a ripstop shell and insulation that reminds me of a quilted outdoor jacket. It also comes in a sherpa version, which is soft flannel on one side and sherpa fleece on the other. This makes a lovely cozy blanket that can be used for picnics and for wrapping yourself up. They both come with carry straps or duffels so they are really easy to carry around while you’re traveling. These are very durable blankets that can withstand any kind of weather and any kind of traveling. They are also the most colorful of all the blankets featured, and if you like an accessory with some character, this one is for you.

You can get this blanket in a simple blue or green color, but you can also get it in meandering colors of pink, orange, and purple. The blanket is even available with picture scenes on it, like the Grand Canyon, Joshua Tree, The Rocky Mountains, Yellowstone, and coverings of bright flowers. The sherpa versions do also have some interesting bright designs, but most of them are either plaid or plain colors.

This range of fringed throws from Dii Homestore  comes in a variety of colors and patterns, but the blankets are essentially all the same in their design and function ability. These blankets look great, are stylish, and can be used in a range of different ways. They’re also great to have rolled up in the bottom of a travel bag for when you need them.

They’re lightweight and easy to carry around, but they’re not waterproof, so they don’t work well on any damp ground. They’re ideal on dry ground when you just want something to sit on to enjoy a picnic on a warm day. You can easily sit two people together on this blanket, or one adult and two children, and they also work well as a throw and to wrap around yourself in the evenings or when it’s cold.

They’re very reasonably priced and make a good budget alternative to the more expensive luxury throws, but bear in mind that at 100 percent cotton, they are not the warm fleecy kind of blanket you’d like to cozy up in. This is a functional blanket that folds down into a compact bundle for traveling and can be used as a good ground blanket for picnics. The fringing element of these blankets isn’t for everyone, but I like the character it brings to an otherwise simple picnic blanket.

I love how luxurious this blanket from Pretty Rugged Gear feels. It has faux fur on one side, that’s so soft and cozy you can wrap it around you and use it as a warm blanket while you watch TV on the sofa or while sitting around a fire pit, but it also has a waterproof backing which is perfect for picnicking. It’s a very versatile blanket, but I love how soft it feels to sit on while enjoying a picnic.

It’s gorgeous to run your fingers through while enjoying the outdoors and it really does feel sumptuous. It’s large enough for four people to sit on comfortably and it comes in a waterproof duffle that makes it very portable and always protected from the elements. This is the largest blanket on the list and also the softest, but if you’re thinking that might make it delicate, you’d be wrong.

You can do just about anything with this blanket and it remains intact, it remains soft and cozy, and it remains just as it was when you bought it. It’s machine washable, so you can spill food on it and get it a bit muddy and it comes up like new when washed. The blanket comes in a range of colors: brown, white, lavender, blue, and mink, all warm tones that fit perfectly with the feel of the fabric.

Now that you’ve selected your blanket, here are some suggestions for picnic snacks:

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Our Favorite Cute (Yet Practical!) Picnic Blankets for a Summer of Outdoor Eating

A new generation of blankets fuses fashion with function

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As warm weather lovers ease into another season of outdoor dining, picnics are everywhere on social media ; we’re not even through June yet, and #summerpicnic has already surpassed more than 17.3 million views on TikTok. Although picnics became a necessity (and burgeoning industry ) during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the appeal of gathering outdoors over a few sandwiches is hardly new.

What has changed is the culture around the humble picnic: thanks to inflation’s impact on both personal budgets and menu prices, along with subliminal social conditioning by certain aesthetics popular on TikTok (see: coastal cowgirl , cottagecore) the picnic in 2023 sits at the intersection of fashion and practicality. So it’s perhaps not surprising that the picnic blanket itself has come to be seen as a symbol of and passport to spontaneity and ease.

Looking for a way to avoid a sad desk lunch? Picnic blanket in the park. Need a cost-effective way to celebrate your kid’s fourth birthday? Picnic blanket(s) in the backyard. Want a second date option that’s as easy to set up as it is to pack up if things go horribly awry? Picnic blanket. The picnic blanket is an open-ended invitation, and being spotted carrying one over your shoulder signals what carrying a yoga mat did in the aughts: an attempt to center oneself through a ground covering.

And while any stained duvet or couch throw will do the job in theory, a new generation of picnic blankets focuses on actual utility in addition to aesthetics, with construction that prioritizes waterproofing, wipe-it-off cleaning, pet-proofing and toss-over-your-shoulder transportability. The picnic blanket of summer 2023 is a study in form-meets-function accessorizing; no matter your picnic destination or personal style, there’s a new-aged blanket to meet your needs. Here are a few of our favorites.

Like so many new picnic blankets, the Internet-beloved puffy picnic blanket from Baggu ($70) was designed by someone who understands that trying to lug around a wadded-up old quilt is less than practical. Baggu’s blanket is easy to roll up, has a carrying handle, and is as soft as an actual quilt, to boot. With hyper-vivid patterns that are reminiscent of Windows 95 screensavers — think clouds, grass, waves — Baggu’s blanket gets meta (look, you’re sitting on a grass picnic blanket, in the grass!) in the best possible way.

Transportability is also one of the big selling points of my personal picnic blanket, a waterproof Pendleton version ($57) that I’ve lugged everywhere from creek beds to grassy patches in parking lots. It folds into a zippered tote so cleanly that even my preschooler can do it, and has a cabin-inspired look that gives even the tamest of picnics gathering-’round-a-campfire sensibility.

For those who skew more classically refined in their picnic blanket aesthetic, a striped and monogrammed version from Mark and Graham ($129) still rolls up for easy toting with leather straps and a handle. It’s also waterproof, which is another common-sense hallmark of modern picnic blanket construction.

To wit, the waterproof, PEVA-backed picnic blanket from Scuddles ($26.99) means you’ll never have a soggy, sand-crusted beach picnic again (and it also comes in a wide range of sizes), while the NEMO Victory picnic blanket ($149.95) has waterproof backing in addition to a cuddly flannel top and grommeted corners for staking it down on windy days. (It also has a secret “stash pocket” for storing keys, phones and other personal items out of sight. Convenient!) And if you value the back-to-the-land energy of old kantha quilts but want to picnic without risk of permanent wine-spill stains, then the waterproof patchwork picnic blanket from Natural Life ($59) offers the best of both worlds.

If you’re concerned about your picnic blanket’s impact on the environment, then Rumpl’s recycled camp blankets ($125) are the water- odor-, and stain-resistant version you need thanks to their ability to repel dirt, spilled drinks and — yes — pet hair. A tree is planted for each Trek Light blanket ($165) purchased, with each fringe-trimmed, Southwest-inspired piece ethically handwoven by Indigenous artists in Mexico using upcycled and recycled materials. (Bonus: there’s an optional leather carrier.) Looking to support National Parks with your picnic blanket purchase? The Parks Project recycled camp blankets are an eco-conscious choice made from recycled polyester that give back to conservation efforts at national parks. And really, who could resist prints like these groovy frogs trippily two-stepping with mushrooms ?

Sarah Baird is a Kentucky-based journalist and author whose work appears regularly in the New York Times , GQ , Saveur , the Believer and beyond. A 2019 Knight Visiting Nieman Fellow at Harvard University, she writes frequently about cultural issues impacting rural America.

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12 Best Beach And Park Picnic Blankets In 2022 For Comfort And Durability

Picnic season is upon us!

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Picnic blankets are an essential for anyone who enjoys the outdoors (or likes to eat out on a budget). Whether you prefer a durable mat you can also use for park workouts , a lightweight sheet for a romantic date night, or a chic and fashionable woven blanket for some cute park selfies, there's an option (or two, or four) with your name on it. In fact, there's even a wearable picnic blanket that turns into a waterproof raincoat—a great gift for the camping lover in your life.

Regardless of where or how you plan on using your picnic blanket, there are a few musts each one should have. It should be comfortable, durable, and lightweight enough to carry but not so light that it blows away with the wind. After that, it's up to you to start thinking about what you're planning on doing on your picnics.

If you're planning on getting a big group of friends together for a beach trip of picnic BBQ, you'll definitely want the extra large option . Or, maybe you just want something small and lightweight to throw in your purse to pair with a date and a bottle of wine— this crocheted blanket is perfect for that. If cold weather isn't going to stop you from your love for picnics, there's even a fleece picnic blanket ideal for chillier temps.

See below for the best picnic blankets for every budget, season, and outdoor situation you could dream of.

Johanna Howard Cozi Throw

Made with wool and cotton, this fabric is expertly designed to keep you warm in chilly temps, and cool during hot summers. 

Plus, the fun design makes this totally versatile. Unlike most picnic blankets that might stay in storage, you'll want to display this on your favorite couch for snuggly movie nights, too.

Likorlove Outdoor Picnic Waterproof Blanket With Stakes

This may be under $13, but it's packed with dozens of features that make it well worth the buy. It's waterproof, sand-proof (a must for kids!), easy to fold, and machine washable, too. 

The best part? It comes with pockets to store items like your phone and has corner loops to put down stakes—something you'll be thankful for on those windy beach days.

Zenviro The Boho Throw

The neutral color on this will go with nearly any of the decor in your home, and the cozy 100 percent cotton makes this a gorgeous fit for a date night picnic, too. 

The gorgeous knitted design is so pretty that reviewers say it's a fan favorite for park photoshoots, too.

"Yucca" Throw

For that person who needs all their belongings to be as chic and luxurious as they are, this one's a must-have. Each of artist K'era Morgan's 100 percent hand-dyed cotton blankets, pillows, and tapestries have stories (literally) woven in to them with the utmost grace and beauty.

CHANODUG Machine Washable Extra Large Picnic & Beach Blanket

It'd be wrong not to mention the classic checkered picnic blanket. The extra large size is primed for a fun photoshoot with your friends and family, and it even comes with a comfy foam bottom—all of which are machine washable.

Wekapo Sand Proof Beach Blanket

This blanket may be seven feet wide and long, but it's compact enough to fold in to the size of your palm—yes, you read that correctly. The sand-proof blanket features pockets at each corner and comes with stakes to nail in the sand on windy days, too. 

The Jaipur Blanket

Equal parts cozy blanket and luxe scarf, this is a must for anyone who loves to go to the park and read often (hear, hear!). Made with recycled plastic bottles and organic cotton, the small and lightweight option is super fashionable, too. 

Inspired by India's traditional Bandhani print, you'll love the way you look on and in it.

El Paso Designs Mexican Yoga Blanket

If you're planning on pairing your picnic with a little sunset downward dog, this uber-soft woven blanket provides support and comfort to either replace or supplement your picnic blanket. It comes in 16 fun patterns that'll look gorgeous on your couch at home, too.

FANCYWING Hooded Blanket Waterproof Fleece Blanket

Consider this the Snuggy (remember those?) of picnics. The fleece, waterproof blanket was built for those who love the outdoors, making it an essential for anyone who loves camping or hiking. 

When you're not lying on it, zip it up in to a coat when it's raining or fold it in to a convenient drawstring bag. Bonus: It's great to store in your car for outdoor sports events, too.

Pratico Outdoors Outdoor Fleece Blanket

Made with an extra thick fleece lining, this blanket is perfect for the person who loves a picnic 365 days out of the year. Even though it's super warm and cozy, the nylon backing is water resistant and machine washable, too. The warmth makes this a great emergency blanket to keep in your car at all times, too.

REDCAMP Extra Large Foldable Picnic Mat

Too tall to lie out on most picnic blankets? This foldable mat comes in a convenient case that extends out to be over six feet long and wide. 

You may not be able to tell by how compact it is once folded, but the blanket also features a super thick top for maximum comfort.

Hivernou Picnic Blanket

Nothing ruins a good nap in the park like feeling a rock stabbing your backside, but this cozy blanket features three soft layers of fleece and airy foam that may even make you prefer outdoor naps over ones at home. 

Neha Tandon is the former senior commerce editor of Women's Health. She has written for New York Magazine, Cosmopolitan, BRIDES, Harper's Bazaar, Business Insider, Byrdie, and Well+Good. 

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The 9 Best Travel Blankets Of 2024, Tested And Reviewed

We spent weeks testing travel blankets to find the best for road trips and long-haul flights.

In This Article

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• Our top picks
• Tips for Choosing

Our Testing Process

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Southern Living / Elise Wang

You don’t often have control over the temperature during travel, whether it’s because your seatmate is blasting their air vent during the flight or someone else is blasting the AC during a road trip. It might seem easy to just grab a blanket from home to take with you, but these can take up too much room in your carry-on bags or checked luggage. 

Consider investing in a travel blanket, which is smaller than a regular blanket or throw but still big enough to keep you warm while on the go. Many of them come with their own carrying cases and stuff sacks, making them easy to pack down to save space and weight while traveling. “A travel blanket is my surefire way of making sure I snooze for part of the flight, time zones and jet lag be damned!” says professional travel writer Katherine Parker-Magyar , who has been to every continent, all 50 states, and 84 countries.

We tested 22 travel blankets for two weeks, evaluating their portability, packability, durability, and ease of use to bring you the best travel blankets for every occasion. From insulated travel blankets to cashmere splurges and everything in between, here are our favorite travel blankets on the market for all of your adventures.

Best Overall Travel Blanket

Kashwere travel blanket.

It comes with a carrying case that doubles as a pillow when you’re not using the blanket.

We wish the travel bag was lined with a smooth fabric that would make it easier to get the blanket back into the bag.

Large enough to cover your lap and waist while seated, Kashwére’s Travel Blanket is an excellent choice for plane rides, road trips, and even long bus rides. It’s made of a soft chenille yarn that’s warm and lightweight without being too heavy or drafty. Plus, the fabric stays put, so you don’t have to worry about the blanket sliding off your body while you sleep. We love it because it doesn’t shed and can be machine-washed and -dried, and because it didn’t shrink after we washed it.

The blanket comes with its own zippered travel pouch as well, making it easy to fold up and stow in an overhead bin, backpack, or purse. We also found that you can use the folded/packed blanket as a pillow instead, which is great for resting against a plane or car window. The pouch opens up along the top and down one side, making it simple to store the folded blanket when not in use, but we did notice that the fabric takes a bit of effort to put back into the pouch, so just make sure you fold it up nicely when trying to store it back in its pouch. 

Size : 32 x 48 inches | Material: Chenille | Weight: 1 pound | Care: Machine was on cold, dry on low-medium

Best Budget Travel Blanket

Travelrest 4-in-1 travel blanket.

It can be worn as a poncho.

You need a bit of space to get the blanket back in its pouch.

As a wearable poncho, body blanket, pillow, or lap blanket, this travel blanket from Travelrest is a great buy that you can use in multiple ways. It’s lightweight enough to throw in your carry-on or purse, and you can easily attach it to a roller bag for zipping around the airport. The entire blanket can be folded back into the attached pocket bag for easy storage, and when it’s folded up and stored, it doubles as a small pillow that’s great for planes and car rides. 

We tested this blanket on a 2.5-hour flight and found that it provided warmth while covering the body from neck to ankles while sitting down. We especially love that it has armholes so you can wear the blanket instead of just covering yourself with it if you want, which increases mobility in case you’re working on a laptop while using the blanket. When folded and inside the pouch, the blanket is about the size of a 13-inch laptop case, which is great for traveling. After washing in cool water and drying on low, we found that the blanket held its shape well and came out feeling brand new. 

Size : 38 x 72 inches | Material: Microfiber | Weight: 14 ounces | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry cool or line dry

Southern Living / Chantia Murphy

Best Cashmere Travel Blanket

White+warren cashmere travel wrap.

White+Warren

It doubles as a warm and fashion-forward scarf in addition to a travel blanket.

It needs to be hand washed or dry cleaned.

As the warmest type of wool, cashmere is sure to keep you cozy while touring around or on long-haul flights. At over 6 feet long, this wrap from White + Warren keeps you covered while in a seated position and looks great as a wrap or folded up into a thick scarf. We tested it on three 6-hour road trips and one cross-country flight and found it to be warm and comfortable, although we prefer to wear it as a scarf since it’s so luxe. And while it is a long and thick wrap, it’s still lightweight and looked good as new after a 14-hour travel day. 

It comes with a dust bag that’s great for keeping it clean and safe while traveling, and lots of different color options are available. The one downside we found is that because it’s cashmere, you have to take extra care with it when washing, or just get it dry cleaned. 

Size : 81 x 36 inches | Material: Cashmere | Weight: Not listed | Care: Hand wash cold or dry clean, lay flat to dry

Southern Living / Anna Popp

Softest Travel Blanket

Unhide lil' marsh traveler.

Despite its large size, the blanket is lightweight and packs down easily.

It doesn't come with an attached strap or carrying pouch.

With a soft top side and a velvety interior side, the Lil’ Marsh from UnHide is a great blanket to take with you on all your travels. It has a large size that’ll cover you up with room to spare when sitting in a car or on a plane. It’s super lightweight and packs up small so you can store it in a tote bag or in your carry-on bag when not in use. We found it easy to pack up and carry around, which made it convenient in the car. Although we do wish it came with a carrying pouch or an attached strap.

Made of polyester, the blanket is thin, but we still found it to be durable and warm. Even when we left it in a cold car, it didn’t take long for it to heat up and keep us toasty. We washed it on a cold, gentle cycle and then laid it out to air dry. It washed well, dried quickly, maintained its softness, and there were no signs of wear and tear at all. The blanket comes in three neutral colors.

Size : 50 x 60 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight: 1.7 pounds | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

Southern Living / Tatiana Kennedy

Best Coverage

L.l.bean puffer blanket.

This generously sized blanket has looped corners and snaps that allow you to hang it up or wear it as a cape.

The blanket’s polyester fabric means it can easily slide off.

For those heading out into frigid temperatures or taking a camping trip, the Puffer Blanket from L.L.Bean is an absolute winner not only for warmth, but style as well. It comes in five different designs, including a national parks theme, and has loops on each corner for hanging and drying. It also has snaps so that you can wear it like a cape, which works great around a campfire or for an outdoor movie night . 

The puffer build means it’s insulated with recycled polyester, but it’s still lightweight and super packable. In fact, it comes with a small drawstring carrying case that’s about the size of a 40-ounce tumbler, meaning you can pack it up and keep it in your car, carry-on, or stored in your rucksack with minimal space lost. The ripstop, polyester outer shell is also soft and warm, just like a puffer jacket would be. We loved how easy it was to repack the blanket up in its carrying pouch and how lightweight it was while still keeping us warm. The size of it was great, too, as it covered us up when sitting and when lying down with plenty of blanket left to spare. 

Size : 54 x 74 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight: 1.7 pounds | Care: Machine wash, dry flat

Southern Living / Ciara Grovert

Best for Outdoors

Eddie bauer packable synthetic throw.

The blanket is lightweight but holds warmth well thanks to the synthetic insulation.

We wish there were some solid color options instead of just patterns and designs.

Whether you want to curl up on the couch, snuggle up by the fire, or be completely cozy on a long-haul flight, this blanket from Eddie Bauer is a great buy for a few reasons. First, it’s stuffed with synthetic insulation that adds loads of warmth without the weight. We found it easy to toss in a bag and have warmth in the car and on the go, and even found ourselves using it at home on the couch as well. The 400-thread-count polyester fabric is also soft to the touch and smooth, but also tough, holding up against pet hair and crumbs, which slide right off. The included stuff sack is also a perk, and it’s easy to fold the blanket up and get it back into the sack when you’re done using it. We also love the size, as it’ll cover you nicely when seated, and it’s great for wrapping up in. To clean it, we washed the blanket in the washing machine on a warm/delicate setting, and then tumble dried it in the dryer without issue. 

Size : 50 x 70 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight: 1.1 pounds | Care: Machine wash warm separately, tumble dry on low with clean tennis ball

Southern Living / Lisa Pezzuto

Best Lightweight Travel Blanket

Away the travel blanket.

The blanket folds down into a much smaller pillow, making it easy to carry while traveling.

It’s a really large blanket for plane use, so you’d need to wrap it around yourself fully to not disturb your neighbor.

If you have other Away products or are looking to add to your collection, the Travel Blanket is a nice addition, as it is easy to take with you and doubles as a pillow as well. It can also connect to another travel blanket with button snaps, which helps to keep you warm from your neck to your toes. Away touts its thermoregulating technology with this blanket, which is designed to help keep you comfortable without being too hot or too cold. Active particles in the blanket help to cool you down or warm you up, and we found that while it’s not the coziest material, it is comfortable and breathable. 

The blanket is designed with an interior kangaroo pocket to stow your phone and essentials, and a foot pocket for added warmth. We found the unfolded blanket to be very large, stretching across all three plane seats lengthwise and then draping down towards the floor. The blanket does pack down into a nice rectangular pillow shape, but packing the blanket into itself is something of a chore on a plane. Once packed though, it doesn’t take up too much space in a suitcase or carry-on bag, and it is lightweight enough to not weigh you down. 

Size : 69.5 x 44.5 inches | Material: Nylon | Weight: 1 pound | Care: Machine washable

Southern Living / Maggie Andrew

Best Design

Eversnug travel blanket and pillow.

It easily converts into a travel pillow.

It could be a bit longer to cover up more of your legs when lying down or reclining in a chair.

Simple but effective, this travel blanket is made from a soft polyester fabric that keeps you warm and cozy. Just unzip the carrying case to unfold the blanket, then fold it back up and stuff it in the case, and it becomes a travel pillow. We love that you don’t have to fold it back up in any particular way, just enough to get it back in the case, and then you can redistribute it to your liking for a pillow. 

We found the blanket to be super soft and comfortable, and it kept us warm on flights without causing us to break a sweat. While seated, it covered from about the neck to mid-shins, but taller people might find it a bit on the small side. Washing was a breeze—we just machine washed it and then dried it on a medium temperature (although the manufacturer recommends air drying). Leave it in your car for road trips, or use the attached luggage sleeve to throw it over your suitcase at the airport. It also has a carabiner, so you can attach it to a backpack as well. 

Size : 65 x 40 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight: 1 pound | Care: Machine wash, air dry

Naked Cashmere 4-piece Travel Set

Naked Cashmere

All components in the set are very soft, making it a luxurious gift for the frequent traveler.

While the blanket can be stuffed into the pillowcase to use as a makeshift travel pillow, given the high price point, we’d like to see a pillow insert included.

With a large cashmere throw, silk travel pillowcase, eye mask, and a pair of cashmere socks, this set is a luxurious gift for the frequent traveler. The throw is very large and covers you entirely when in use, and you can also fold it up and stuff it inside the pillowcase for a travel pillow as well. We like that the pillowcase is silk so you can sleep on it in the car or on a plane and keep your hair in place. The socks are also warm and cozy and complement the throw, keeping you warm during overnight flights and lengthy road trips. The eye mask is a nice added touch as well, especially if you’re seated next to someone who has their overhead light on while you’re trying to sleep. Overall, the set as a whole kept us warm and cozy during a cross-country flight, and we definitely felt luxurious while using all the elements of the set. 

Size : 82- x 50-inch blanket, 9- x 3-inch sleep mask, 11.5- x 15.5-inch pillowcase | Material: Cashmere, silk | Weight: Not listed | Care: Hand wash cold or dry clean

Tips for Choosing the Right Travel Blanket

Portability .

Consider a travel blanket that will cover you nicely when seated but won’t take up too much extra room and gather on the floor or onto the person sitting next to you. If the travel blanket comes with its own carrying case or stuff sack, that’s a great added feature that allows you to pack up the blanket tightly and store it when not in use. Added straps for luggage handles, carry straps, and carabiners can also help you carry the blanket around with ease. Travelrest’s Wrap 4-in-1 Travel Blanket is a great choice, as it can be used as a blanket, poncho, and pillow, and folds up into itself for a carrying bag. 

Most commonly, travel blankets are made from polyester, as it’s a lightweight fabric that’s also affordable and warm. Polyester is great not only because it’s soft and cozy, but because it dries quickly and doesn’t tend to wrinkle. UnHide’s Lil’ Marsh Traveler blanket is a great polyester option that is extra soft and plush. 

If you want something a bit elevated, look for a cashmere option, as it’ll also keep you super warm and comfortable, but it is more expensive. The Kashwere Travel Blanket , our best overall pick, is made of chenille yarn, a type of fuzzy cotton yarn that gives a similar warmth and feel as cashmere but at a much more affordable price point.

For travels that take you outdoors (camping, backpacking, etc.) consider a travel blanket that has insulation, like the Eddie Bauer Packable Synthetic Throw , which is made with synthetic insulation to keep you warm on cold nights.  

Consider a travel blanket that won’t weigh down your luggage or carry-on bag or take up too much space. Away’s The Travel Blanket is super lightweight, weighing in at just over a pound and featuring snaps that allow you to attach it to other Away products and backpacks. The last thing you want to worry about while on the go is trying to meet airline luggage weight requirements, and you don’t want to be lugging around a heavy blanket that’s attached to your backpack or purse. 

Additional Features 

If a travel blanket has additional features such as an included carrying bag, straps and snaps to attach it to a suitcase or backpack, and loops and handles that make it easy to hang and carry, consider it a win. L.L.Bean’s Puffer Blanket comes with snaps that make it easy to throw it over your shoulders and wear as a cape, as well as loops so you can hang it for easy drying. Parker-Magyar also loves the L.L.Bean Puffer Blanket for this feature and its included carry sack that makes it easy to transport. 

Over a two-week period, we tested 22 blankets, bringing them with us on flights, road trips, train rides, and even in the car while running errands. For each blanket, we examined the fabric, fasteners, and construction. We looked at how comfortable the blankets were to the touch, how durable the fabric and construction were, and how heavy or lightweight each one felt. We also looked to see if each had any special design features and how easy they were to use. 

Additionally, we evaluated how warm each blanket kept us, how cozy and breathable it was, and how much it covered us while sitting and lying down. We took note of how easy it was to fold the blanket back into its carrying case (if it came with one), and how much space each took up in our bags. We also noted any signs of wear and tear over time as well.

Finally, we put each blanket through the wash at least once, noting how convenient it was to clean and if there were any changes in the fabric after washing. 

More Travel Blankets to Consider

BlueHills Premium Soft Travel Blanket Pillow : This blanket folded up nicely into its included carrying bag, and it is super soft and covered us well during a flight. The carrying strap on the case is also a nice touch, as is the carabiner to hook it on a backpack. However, it is thinner than other blankets on this list and didn’t keep us quite as warm as others.

Pavilia Premium Fleece Travel Blanket Pillow : This blanket comes with a travel case as well, and we like the luggage strap on it that makes it easy to slide over your suitcase handles. It doesn’t take a lot of effort to get it back into the travel case, but we did find that other blankets on this list had better quality case zippers, linings, and straps. 

What is the best blanket to take on a plane?

A great plane blanket will give you enough coverage while seated without being so large that it falls into the seat next to you. You’ll want something that’s not too complicated to put back into its carrying case as well. Parker-Magyar says she’s always cold on planes and looking to snuggle up, even in the middle seat in economy. “At the very least, I carry with me a huge scarf. I love taking the L.L.Bean Puffer Blanket .” 

Can you travel with a weighted blanket?

If you have the space in your carry-on bag, or enough room in a car or train seat, you can use a weighted blanket if you wish. However, it’s not something we recommend, because you don't want to be weighed down while traveling or deal with excessive weight restraints. 

How do you fold a blanket for travel?

If there are specific instructions on how to fold your travel blanket back into its case, follow those instructions. If not, fold it up as tightly as possible, or you can roll your blanket back up. “I love blankets that roll up into a smaller size,” says Parker-Magyar. “I also channel my inner Stevie Nicks by wrapping myself in a blanket-sized scarf, and wear it as a shawl in the airport. It can look chic, or exceedingly shabby, depending on the rest of the outfit—I've personally been both at various departure gates.”

Why Trust Southern Living? 

Amanda Ogle is a freelance writer and editor with seven years of experience covering food and drink, travel, and general lifestyle topics. For this list, we tested 22 travel blankets, evaluating portability, material, weight, and ease of use. For expert insight, Amanda consulted with travel expert Katherine Parker-Magyar , who has visited all seven continents, all 50 states, and 84 countries. She’s been a professional travel writer since 2018 and has taken hundreds of long-haul flights. 

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7 Cute Picnic Blankets to Pack for Festivals, Park Hangs & the Beach

These outdoor blankets have you and your bottom covered.

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There are a number of good outdoor blankets you can choose from online, but which ones should you actually be buying? To help make the decision easier, Billboard Shopping has broken down the best picnic blankets below to help narrow your options.

What Is the Best Material for Outdoor Blankets?

Sure, you could use any type of blanket outdoors , but the best picnic blankets are made from a waterproof material that won’t soak through if the ground is wet. You’ll want to be on the lookout for fabrics like polyurethane laminate (PUL) and nylon to prevent any water soaking through. Plus, if you go to the beach, these materials are smooth enough to easily brush off sand without trapping it.

What Is the Best Size for a Picnic Blanket?

If you plan on using a picnic blanket for yourself and another person you’ll want to opt for a blanket that can fit you, the other person, as well as additional space for snacks, drinks and more. Outdoor gear brand Kamui suggests using a blanket 50 inches x 60 inches to comfortably fit two people. For five or more people you’ll want to consider an outdoor blanket that measures around 80 inches x 80 inches.

What Are the Best Picnic Blankets?

From beach-friendly designs to budget-friendly picks, below we rounded up some of the best picnic blankets on the market that’ll easily become a travel necessity .

Rumpl The Original Puffy Outdoor Blanket

Rumpl’s outdoor blanket caught our eye not just for its cute designs, but for its puffy material that’ll add some cushion to the ground. The polyester material comes with a coating that’s waterproof and odor-proof to keep it fresh and dry no matter what environment you’re in. It’s also available in a two person size here .

Picnic Time XL Outdoor Blanket Tote

Whether you’re stargazing or watching a movie outdoors, this picnic blanket will help protect your behinds from getting soaked due to dewy, wet grass. The bottom is made with a water-resistant material while the top features an insulating fleece fabric for added warmth. It even folds up into a tote for easier portability.

Maraawa Picnic Blanket

Maraawa’s Picnic Blanket combines quality with an affordable price tag, so you can save money without sacrificing your comfort. The foldable design can be packed into your tote or beach bag, and can fit up to five adults when unfolded. It’s also made with an oxford polyester top, while the PVC bottom will help keep sand and water away.

KingCamp Outdoor Picnic Blanket

You don’t have to ditch warmth when you sit on the ground using this outdoor picnic blanket from KingCamp. The underside of the picnic blanket features a PU coating that aims to be waterproof and windproof while the top side has a soft fleece material to help insulate heat. It can also fit up to two people at once.

Horizon Hound Down Outdoor Blanket

Horizon Hound’s outdoor blanket isn’t just waterproof, it also features a puffy design for extra padding for you to sit on. On top of that, it can be rolled up into a compact pouch for traveling and uses a nylon material that’s tear-proof for added longevity.

Zaze Extra Large Picnic Outdoor Blanket

No one will have to bring their own blanket once you have Zaze’s extra large picnic blanket in your arsenal. It measures 80 inches x 80 inches to fit up to eight adults, and uses three layers of cotton material for added comfort. When you’re done using the blanket, simply roll it up and secure it in place to take with you on the go.

Ocoopa Diveblues Sandproof Outdoor Blanket

This picnic blanket is ready to upgrade your beach days using an extra-large size that’ll easily fit you and a few friends. The sandproof material also means you can brush and shake sand off without worry of dragging it home with you.

For more product recommendations , check out our roundups of the best camping gear , travel backpacks and shoes for travel .

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7 highly rated outdoor blankets for picnics, bonfires and more

If you’re spending a lot of time outside, an outdoor blanket can make the experience much more comfortable. After all, a good blanket can protect you from itchy grass, dirt or dampness on the ground.

While an outdoor blanket is not a substitute for a good sleeping bag , you can use it for a number of other activities like a picnic , lounging as you watch a sporting event or a place to relax as your kids play at a park. 

To help you find an outdoor blanket that meets your needs, we spoke with two experts on exactly what features to prioritize while shopping and based on those suggestions, we found highly rated options from top retailers like Amazon, Target and beyond.

SKIP AHEAD Our top picks | How we picked top-rated outdoor blankets | Top-rated outdoor blankets | How to shop for an outdoor blanket

Our top picks

• Best overall: Good Gain Waterproof Picnic Blanket 
• Best budget pick: Scuddles Extra Large Picnic Blanket
• Best splurge: Yeti Lowlands Blanket

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How we picked top-rated outdoor blankets.

To help us determine what to look for in an outdoor blanket, we spoke with professionals who plan small and large scale picnics for a living. They regularly use outdoor blankets in all types of environments, and they created a list of features to consider when shopping. 

• Size: When it comes to an outdoor blanket, bigger tends to be better. The ideal blanket is large enough that everyone has space to sit or recline, says Lauren Kimmons, who owns San Diego-based Pop Up Picnic Co . Of course, how many people will be gathering on your outdoor blanket may vary. For that reason, we selected top-rated blankets in a variety of sizes. 
• Portability: Whether you’re heading to a picnic or want to take a blanket on a camping trip, being able to pack it up quickly and without fuss makes life easier. Look for something that has some plushness (think thicker than a bed sheet ), but that can still fold up with relative ease, says Candace Perez, owner of The Posh Picnic in Austin, Texas.  
• Water resistance: Both Perez and Kimmons put water resistance at the top of their list of features to look for when it comes choosing an outdoor blanket. This will help prevent damp grass from soaking through and will also be helpful if someone spills their beverage while hanging out on the blanket.   

Top-rated outdoor blankets

Along with the features experts recommended, we also made sure that any outdoor blanket we selected had a 4-star average or above from at least 600 reviews.

Yeti Lowlands Blanket

Yeti, the company behind one of our favorite tumblers , makes a padded blanket with a water-resistant layer. This blanket is 78 inches by 55 inches and comes in three colors — fireside red, smoke blue and canopy green. It also comes with a rectangular carrying case. This blanket has a 4.8-star average out of over 600 reviews on Yeti’s website.

Dimensions: 78 inches x 55 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight 5.8 pounds

Scuddles Extra Large Picnic Blanket

This picnic blanket was a top pick in our story about picnic essentials . It has a 4.5-star average from over 15,000 reviews on Amazon. The blanket has a vinyl backing to prevent a damp ground from seeping through, a padded middle for comfort and a woven vinyl top that feels soft to sit on, according to the brand. When you’re done using the blanket, it folds up into a portable tote with a handle for carrying.

Dimensions: 52 inches x 57 inches | Material: Vinyl | Weight 1 pound

Good Gain Waterproof Picnic Blanket 

Another choice from our picnic essentials story, this blanket is water-resistant and has a vinyl backing that sand will not stick to, according to the brand. It has a 4.6-star average from over 3,500 reviews on Amazon and comes in 13 patterns (like grey stripe , red check , yellow flower and more). This blanket rolls up and can be secured with a buckled strap that has a top handle for portability. 

Dimensions: 78 inches x 58 inches | Material: Vinyl and polyester | Weight 1.8 pounds

Good Gain Waterproof Picnic Blanket

Rumpl the original puffy.

This puffy quilt utilizes similar materials as sleeping bags for a padded, warm outdoor blanket you can sit on or wrap yourself in, according to the brand. It even has clips at the corners, allowing you to fasten it around your neck like a cape so you can cook, sit around the fire or eat a meal while still staying warm. This blanket has a 4.8-star average from over 830 reviews and comes in a variety of colors and prints — including ocean fade , cactus bloom and black . This bag also comes with a small bag so you can roll up the blanket and store it between uses.

Dimensions: 52 inches x 75 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight 9.6 ounces

Little Unicorn Indoor/Outdoor Blanket

This blanket is sized to comfortably sit between three and five people, according to the brand. It’s lightly padded and made from polyester, which you can wipe down if anything spills on it. After use, it folds up into a compact shape with an attached strap so you can carry it over one shoulder. This blanket is also available in a smaller and larger size and comes in various prints, like midnight poppy , tropical leaf and primrose patch . 

Dimensions: 60 inches x 84 inches | Material: Polyester | Weight 2.8 pounds

Horizon Hound Down Camping Blanket

This blanket is filled with duck down and covered in water-resistant nylon. It has a 4.6-star average from over 2,000 reviews on Amazon and comes in a variety of colors, like green , red and blue . It has clips so you can wear it like a warm poncho, or you can spread it out on the ground to provide a comfortable, padded place to have a picnic. 

Dimensions: 50 inches x 77 inches | Material: Nylon | Weight 1.1 pounds

Down Under Outdoors Stadium Blanket 

The top of this blanket is covered in soft fleece, while the bottom is lined with water-resistant polyester. The machine-washable blanket also has a hidden pocket, so you can stash things like your keys or phone. This blanket comes with a sack to store it in and is available in green check , blue , red and more colors and patterns.

Dimensions: 55 inches x 82 inches | Material: Nylon | Weight 2.4 pounds

Down Under Outdoors Stadium Blanket

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How to shop for an outdoor blanket.

If you’re considering purchasing an outdoor blanket, here’s what our experts recommended you keep in mind while shopping: 

• Consider how you’ll use it: If you’ll primarily be using an outdoor blanket for a picnic, you’ll want to make sure it’s large enough to fit a handful of people, can be packed up easily and is made from stain-resistant material, says Kimmons. But if you want something you can wrap yourself in during an evening bonfire or while hanging at an outdoor game on a crisp fall day, a blanket with down filling will be better suited for your needs. 
• Pick something durable: An outdoor blanket won’t last very long if it’s not crafted to be durable. After all, you’re using it to sit on the rough ground, and it’s likely to be exposed to the elements. Both our experts suggested looking for a thicker blanket — noting that something lightweight will be more likely to snag on a rock and tear and may also blow away with a light breeze.
• Look for features that add ease: Chances are you’ll be carrying your outdoor blanket at some point — even if it’s just from your trunk to a park. A strap that you can throw over your shoulder or hook over your wrist will make it easier to carry than something you need to fold up and balance in your arms, says Kimmons, especially since you may also be trying to juggle other items at the same time. Along with a strap, our experts recommend considering blankets that are machine washable. Your blanket will be on the ground, so it is bound to get dirty — being able to throw it in the wash will come in handy, says Kimmons.

Meet our experts

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Lauren Kimmons is the owner of the Pop Up Picnic Co in San Diego, California
• Candace Perez is the owner of The Posh Picnic in Austin, Texas 

Why trust Select?

Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers topics like beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed two experts to gather their guidance on what to look for when shopping for outdoor blankets.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Bethany Heitman is a contributing editor at NBC Select.

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10 best picnic blankets for al fresco dining this summer

Take your pick from woollen picnic mats for the park and multifunctional blankets for the beach, article bookmarked.

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Ah, the Great British picnic. Nothing quite says summer like a punnet of cocktail sausages, a frenzied dog that appears out of nowhere as soon as you open them, and the distant but ever-present threat of rain.

Whether you’re planning a picnic in the park, the garden , the living room or the beach, you’ll need the perfect floor covering upon which to lay your delicious spread. But, when it comes to picnic blankets, not all of them are created equal – so we’ve picked out the cream of the crop.

As any al fresco foodie worth their Himalayan sea salt knows, the right picnic blanket is key to serving up the perfect outdoor meal. Waterproofing is the first thing to check for – and a waterproof or water-resistant base layer is essential to avoid soggy bottoms on wet sand or soggy grass.

Portability is another factor to consider – are you after a blanket to sling in your boot or do you need something with a carry handle that can be lashed to a buggy or bike or something completely hands-free? In this case, size matters, too, particularly if you’re sharing space with kids or animals – or want to be able to lie in the sunshine for a post-picnic doze.

Last but not least, check if your chosen picnic blanket is easy to clean – whether that means it wipes clean simply enough or can be thrown in the wash. Pick something that ticks all those boxes and looks the part, too, and your next picnic will be a walk in the park.

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How we tested picnic blankets

We picnicked like there was no tomorrow to bring you the best blankets on which to eat. We checked to see if each blanket lived up to its promise when it came to waterproofing and that each mat on our list was easy to clean either with a damp cloth or – even better – in a washing machine. We gave extra points for multifunctional features and carefully considered cost when weighing up our winners.

The best picnic blankets for 2024 are:

• Best overall – The Stripes Co Pinball picnic mat with bag: £125, Thestripescompany.com
• Best for traditionalists – Atlantic Blankets kelp green herringbone wool picnic blanket: £149, Atlanticblankets.com
• Best for camping trips – ENO the field day blanket: £49.48, Alpinetrek.co.uk
• Best quick-drying blanket – Pacmat colour block waterproof picnic blanket, XL: £49.99, Buymeonce.com
• Best affordable blanket – Mountain Warehouse patterned picnic blanket: £14.99, Mountainwarehouse.com

The Stripes Co pinball picnic mat with bag

• Best : Overall
• Size : 200cm x 200cm
• Waterproofing : Damp-proof backing
• Machine washable : Yes
• Damp proof backing
• Comfortable, thick design

We love the bright rainbow stripes of this picnic mat from The Stripes Co – it’s a showstopper on grass in the garden or park, and nice and easy to spot on a crowded beach. The quilted blanket has a damp proof backing that doesn’t feel too rigid but is just thick enough to offer some comfort on bumpy ground. Plus, it’s finished with a piped edge and the whole thing feels top quality.

The mat is a roomy 200cm x 200cm, so it’s big enough for the whole family and folds into a separate carry bag. The bag itself pretty substantial to make enough space though – so this isn’t a compact option – but the PVC oilcloth lining means the bag, like the mat, is super sturdy. Team it with the matching striped bunting and you’ll be the envy of your picnicking neighbours.

Atlantic Blankets kelp green herringbone wool picnic blanket

• Best : For traditionalists
• Size : 130cm x 200cm
• Waterproofing : Waterproof backing
• Machine washable : On a cool wool cycle
• Soft and warm
• Longer length good for two people

Designed in Cornwall and made in Britain, this 100 per cent wool picnic mat from Atlantic Blankets is available in various sophisticated colourways. We tested the kelp green, which is knitted in thick herringbone stripes and finished with a cream border and tassels.

Soft and warm, the blanket is slightly narrower than others we tested, but the longer length works well for two people – especially if you want to stretch out and doze after a particularly indulgent picnic. It’s finished with a separate carry strap and handle in one – you can choose this in a grey fabric webbing to lower the overall price to £115, or plump for a luxurious natural leather that finishes it off perfectly.

ENO the field day blanket

• Best : For camping trips
• Size : 180cm x 150cm
• Waterproofing : Water-repellent finish on one side
• Packs up small
• Machine washable

While it’s not specifically designed to be a picnic blanket, we love the multifunctional features of The FieldDay Blanket by ENO, which works well for all sorts of outdoor adventures where the ground is relatively dry. The nylon shell fabric on one side is water-repellent, so we used this side face-down in testing and sat on the soft polar fleece side. That did mean the pattern – a black and green mountain design – wasn’t visible, but it was one of the softest blankets to sit on.

The blanket comes with a travel-ready stuff sack – like a sleeping bag holder – so there’s no need to faff around folding it up, and it packs down nice and small. Because it doesn’t have a rigid backing, you can throw it straight into the washing machine and ours cleaned up really well. Plus, it doubles as a cosy camping blanket complete with a tiny buckle so you can wrap yourself in it and carry on your business, hands-free.

Pacmat colour block waterproof picnic blanket, XL

• Best : Quick-drying blanket
• Size : 120cm x 140cm
• Waterproofing : Water resistant backing
• Longer length
• Packs down very small
• Durable and light

Need a bit more space to spread out? We found the longer length of this Pacmat picnic blanket meant nobody had to sit half-on, half-off. On the flip side, it packed down into the smallest of all the picnic blankets we tested once it was folded and rolled into the mesh carry bag.

The secret is the fabric – the top layer is a technical polyester that sheds water, and the bottom is a waterproof ripstop nylon that’s durable but light. It does mean you don’t get any cushioning from the ground below, but it’s outweighed by the fact it’s so portable and dried the fastest of all the blankets we tested. There are holes in the corners so you can peg it down or hang it up, and you can choose from a selection of muted hues.

Mountain Warehouse patterned picnic blanket

• Best : Affordable blanket
• Machine washable : No

This Mountain Warehouse picnic mat comes in lots of designs, including an all-over dog print that went down well with our younger testers. The playful design is matched by a solid, dark background, which – along with the fact it wipes clean brilliantly – means it doesn’t show the dirt. The underside is water resistant, and we didn’t experience any soggy bottoms on damp grass. It folds to a nice small size and stays shut with a Velcro flap and built-in handle. All in all, we couldn’t fault it for the price.

The British Blanket Co rainbow stripe waterproof picnic blanket with strap

• Best : Woollen blanket
• Size : 140cm x 160cm
• Waterproofing : Water-repellent backing
• Colour options
• Soft wool upper

This 100 per cent wool picnic blanket is available in 13 pretty colourways. We tested the cheerful rainbow stripe design that’s covered in a classic herringbone knit and finished with colourful tassels, which drew no end of admiring comments from fellow picnickers. The soft wool upper feels luxurious and warm to sit on and has a waterproof canvas backing that stood up well to fresh spring grass. It’s machine washable on a cold wool cycle, but like any natural wool it needs a little TLC – and no spin cycles – to keep it looking its best. Beautifully made and finished with dark leather straps, this would make a gorgeous gift for any picnic-lover.

Voited compact picnic and beach blanket

• Best : For beach picnics
• Size : 137cm x 203cm
• Waterproofing : Water-resistant bottom layer
• Water-resistant
• Concealed pockets

There’s a lot to love about this multifunctional picnic blanket made from recycled materials. The top layer is a quick-drying micro-fleece that feels super soft to sit on. Combined with the bottom layer –a durable, water-resistant ripstop fabric – the blanket repels sand, spills, stains and pet hair.

It’s the extra features that really take this up a notch, though, from the stake loops to peg it down on a windy day at the beach, to the smart carry pouch and concealed pocket where you can stash your phone and keys out of sight. We love the poppers round the outside, too – you can use them to snap several blankets together or make a changing cubicle or cloak for the beach. Aside from all the functional features, the retro designs look fantastic – making this a good-value option if you’re in the market for something multifunctional.

Habitat palm print round picnic blanket

• Best : Circular picnic blanket
• Size : 135cm x 135cm
• Built in carry handle
• Lightweight and small once rolled up

This smart, circular picnic blanket from Habitat is covered in a grey palm print with a black backing. We like that the underside is fully waterproof, so there was no dampness when testing on soggy grass. It does mean the blanket is fairly rigid, though, and the patterned side is wipe-clean only rather than machine washable. The carry handle is built-in, so there’s no chance of losing it, and seals closed with a popper. It’s nice and small when rolled up, and incredibly light – making this a handy option when you’ve already got armfuls of picnic stuff to carry.

Marks and Spencer expressive floral round picnic blanket

• Best : For spring style
• Tricky to remove sticky spills from the fleece.

Bright and breezy, this floral picnic blanket from M&S is giving us serious spring vibes. We like the lemon yellow colour, all-over daisy print and racing green trim, and the circular shape makes it stand out from the crowd. The upper layer is made from a soft fleecy fabric that wipes clean, although we did struggle to remove sticky spills from the fleece.

The waterproof underside stood up to soggy grass though, and the blanket folds flat with a Velcro flap to secure it and a built-in carry handle. Team it with matching items from M&S’ expressive floral picnic range – which includes everything from melamine tumblers to picnic trays – and your spread will be as pretty as a picture.

YETI lowlands blanket

• Best : For all terrains
• Size : 139.7cm x 198.1cm
• Waterproofing : Yes
• Machine washable : Yes, cold wash
• Durable zippable carry bag

Looking for a blanket that does everything? It’s not cheap, but YETI’s Lowlands Blanket is as multifunctional as it’s durable. The soft top layer has built-in insulation, and the bottom is completely waterproof. Designed to repel dirt, burrs, and pet hair, it’s ideal if you’ve got animals or mucky kids in tow – and it’s machine washable on a cold wash.

We love the built-in utility loops, which mean you can either peg it down as a picnic blanket or tent carpet, or hang it up as a shelter or shade. The generous size means there’s space for the whole family to sit on it, and the zippable carry-bag is built to last – and means it easily packs down to a neat size.

The verdict: Picnic blankets

In truth, it was incredibly difficult to whittle the list down to one winner – but The Stripes Co Pinball picnic mat feels like an investment piece that will last for years and years. Voited’s compact picnic and beach blanket is our top choice if you’re looking for a multifunctional option, and traditionalists will love the classy 100 per cent wool options from both Atlantic Blankets and The British Blanket Co .

Complete your picnic pack with our pick of the best cool bags and melamine picnicware pieces

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Is It Safe in Moscow?

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When you visit Moscow , Russia, you’re seeing one of the world’s largest, and most expensive, capital cities . While there is a history of violent crime against foreign journalists and aid personnel in Russia, a trip to Moscow is usually safe for mainstream travelers. Most tourists in Moscow only face potential issues with petty crime, though terrorism is also a concern. Visitors should stick to the principal tourist areas and abide by the local security advice.

Travel Advisories

• The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to avoid travel to Russia because of COVID-19 and to "exercise increased caution due to terrorism, harassment, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws."  
• Anyone exploring more of Russia should avoid "The North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus, due to terrorism, kidnapping,   and   risk of civil unrest." Also, travelers should stay away from "Crimea due to Russia’s occupation of the Ukrainian territory   and   abuses by its occupying authorities."  
• Canada states travelers should use a high degree of caution in Russia due to the threat of terrorism and crime.  

Is Moscow Dangerous?

The Moscow city center is typically safe. In general, the closer you are to the Kremlin , the better. Travelers mainly need to be aware of their surroundings and look out for petty crime. Be especially careful in tourist areas such as Arbat Street and crowded places like the Moscow Metro transit system. The suburbs are also generally fine, though it is advised to stay away from Maryino and Perovo districts.

Terrorism has occurred in the Moscow area, leading authorities to increase security measures. Be more careful at tourist and transportation hubs, places of worship, government buildings, schools, airports, crowds, open markets, and additional tourist sites.

Pickpockets and purse snatching happen often in Russia, perpetrated by groups of children and teenagers who distract tourists to get their wallets and credit cards. Beware of people asking you for help, who then trick you into their scheme. Don’t expect a backpack to be a safe bag bet; instead, invest in something that you can clutch close to your body or purchase a money belt . Always diversify, storing some money in a separate location so that if you are pickpocketed, you'll have cash elsewhere. Keep an eye out for thieves in public transportation, underground walkways, tourist spots, restaurants, hotel rooms and homes, restaurants, and markets.

Is Moscow Safe for Solo Travelers?

Large cities like Moscow in Russia are overall fairly safe if you are traveling alone, and the Moscow Metro public transit is a secure and easy way to get around. But it is still a good idea to follow basic precautions as in any destination. Avoid exploring alone at night, especially in bad areas. You may want to learn some basic Russian phrases or bring a dictionary, as many locals don't speak English. However, in case you need any help, there are tourist police that speak English. Also, exploring with other trusted travelers and locals or on professional tours is often a good way to feel safe.

Is Moscow Safe for Female Travelers?

Catcalling and street harassment are infrequent in Moscow and the rest of Russia and females traveling alone don't usually have problems. There are plenty of police officers on the streets as well. Still, it serves to stick to Moscow's well-lit, public areas, avoid solo night walks, and use your instincts. Women frequenting bars may take receive some friendly attention. Females can wear whatever they want, but those entering Orthodox churches will be required to cover up. Though women in Russia are independent, domestic violence and other inequality issues take place regularly.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Russia is not known as a gay-friendly country. However, Moscow is one of the more welcoming cities with a blooming LGBTQ+ community and many friendly restaurants, bars, clubs, and other venues. Hate crimes in Russia have increased since the 2013 anti-gay propaganda law. Openly LGBTQ+ tourists in this conservative country may experience homophobic remarks, discrimination, or even violence, especially if traveling with a partner. Also, while women hold hands or hug publicly—whether romantically involved or not—men should avoid public displays of affection to prevent being insulted or other issues.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Moscow  and other big cities in Russia have sizable populations of various cultures, so discrimination against BIPOC travelers is rarer than in other parts of the country where it can become dangerous. Some people living in Russia who are Black, Asian, Jewish, and from other backgrounds have experienced racial discrimination and violence. Tourists won't usually experience overt racism but may be the recipients of some stares. If anyone should bother you, be polite and resist being taunted into physically defending yourself.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Travelers should consider the following general tips when visiting:

• It's best not to drink the tap water. If you do, boil it before drinking, though showering is safe and the amount used to brush teeth is generally not harmful. Mineral water is widely drunk, especially at restaurants, and if you prefer not to have it carbonated ask for “ voda byez gaz” (water without gas).
• If you need emergency assistance in case of fire, terrorism, medical issues, or more, dial 112 in Russia for bilingual operators.
• Be judicious about taking photographs, especially of police or officials. This can potentially bring unwanted attention to yourself by members of law enforcement who won’t mind asking to see your passport. Also avoid snapping photos of official-looking buildings, such as embassies and government headquarters.
• Carry your passport in as secure a manner as possible. If you get stopped for any reason by the police, they can fine or arrest you if you don't have the document with you. Also, keep photocopies of your passport, the page on which your travel visa appears, and any other documents that relate to your stay in Russia.
• Use official taxis only and steer clear of illegal taxi companies, especially at night. Ask your hotel to call a reputable taxi company.

U.S. Department of State. " Russia Travel Advisory ." August 6, 2020.

Government of Canada. " Official Global Travel Advisories ." November 19, 2020.

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Moscow Tour & Trip Reviews

308 reviews Average rating 4.7 60 trips

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Moscow Tour & Trip Ratings

Tour Reviews

Capitals of the North

some hotels could have been better

It was jam packed with every place I wanted to go and see. I especially love my photo of us setting out on the night time river cruise in St Petersburg and the Peter...

I really did not buy much and what I did buy was small gifts for others .

Johanna-Marie

Good hotels, some better than others. Interesting itinerary

Too rushed. Optional tour rather too short

Moscow Reviews

We saw everything that we wanted to.

Itinerary was fine but coach was below the standard of other Trafalgar tours I have been on e.g video system didn’t work and quite a few times the back door had to b...

Trafalgar took care of all the hassle one would have to go through to get to all the tourist spots and the tricky areas, for example getting a tour inside the Kremli...

The itinerary was good so were the hotels (especially the last one i.e. The Crowne Plaza, Moscow). Dimitri, our driver ensured that the coach was always spotless an...

I was disappointed that we weren't given the option to do the Danish Traditions & Canal Cruise in Copenhagen or the Traditional Helsinki Dinner. I enjoyed Russia...

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