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6 Best Picnic Blankets in 2024

When you’re planning a picnic, you’ll want a blanket that’s both comfortable and practical. You’ll need something that can withstand the outdoors, keep you warm, and be easy to clean. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? From water-resistant designs to compact constructions, the best picnic blankets offer a range of features that can make all the difference in your outdoor experience. So, what sets the top-rated blankets apart from the rest? Let’s take a closer look at the top contenders.

DOWN UNDER OUTDOORS Quilted Fleece Stadium Blanket

DOWN UNDER OUTDOORS Quilted Fleece Stadium Blanket  Get it now on Amazon.com

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who frequently attends events, camps, or picnics, the DOWN UNDER OUTDOORS Quilted Fleece Stadium Blanket is an excellent choice, thanks to its waterproof and windproof design.

You’ll appreciate its 350 GSM quilted fleece construction, which provides a cozy feel while keeping you dry in rainy or windy conditions.

The blanket is also incredibly lightweight and compact, making it easy to store and transport.

With its secret zip storage pocket and machine washable design, you’ll find it’s a convenient and low-maintenance option for your outdoor adventures.

Plus, it’s backed by a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.

Best For: Kids and adults who frequently attend outdoor events, camps, or picnics and need a waterproof and windproof blanket.

Pros:

  • Waterproof and windproof design with a tough polyester backing
  • Ultrasonically quilted to prevent layers from sliding and provides a cozy feel
  • Machine washable, compact, and lightweight for easy storage and transportation

Cons:

  • No specific temperature rating for the blanket’s warmth
  • Only available in black and white check color
  • Made in China, which may be a concern for some buyers

REDCAMP Extra Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket

REDCAMP Extra Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket  Get it now on Amazon.com

This extra-large picnic blanket is an ideal choice for families or small groups of 2-4 adults with kids, offering ample space to relax and enjoy the outdoors together.

With its 79×77 inches unfolded size, you’ll have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy a meal or simply take in the scenery.

The REDCAMP Extra Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket is designed to be durable and water-resistant, featuring a thick oxford polyester top and waterproof PVC bottom.

You’ll appreciate its portability, thanks to the built-in handle and included carry bag, making it easy to take on your next outdoor adventure.

Whether you’re headed to the park, beach, or camping, this blanket is up for the task.

Best For: Families or small groups of 2-4 adults with kids who want a durable, water-resistant, and portable picnic blanket for outdoor activities.

Pros:

  • Durable and water-resistant with a thick oxford polyester top and waterproof PVC bottom
  • Portable with a built-in handle and included carry bag
  • Easy to fold and clean, and machine washable (though not recommended)

Cons:

  • Some reviewers noted a strong plastic smell at first, though it dissipates with time
  • No specific details on the weight capacity or load-bearing capacity of the blanket
  • Machine washing is not recommended, which may be a drawback for some users

YETI Lowlands Blanket, Multi-Use Blanket with Travel Bag, Fireside Red

YETI Lowlands Blanket, Multi-Use Blanket with Travel Bag, Fireside Red  Get it now on Amazon.com

With its durable and waterproof design, the YETI Lowlands Blanket is the perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and easy-to-clean picnic blanket that can withstand wet ground and harsh weather conditions.

You’ll appreciate the blanket’s padded and insulated interior, which keeps you cozy during your outdoor adventures. When you’re done, simply pack it up in its convenient travel bag and head home.

The waterproof layer is immune to wet ground, and the blanket is machine washable, pet-hair resistant, and easy to shake off dirt.

With an impressive 4.8-star rating from 734 customers, you can trust that this blanket will serve you well on all your camping, hiking, and picnic excursions.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and easy-to-clean picnic blanket that can withstand wet ground and harsh weather conditions.

Pros:

  • Durable and waterproof design makes it perfect for outdoor adventures
  • Padded and insulated interior keeps you cozy during your outdoor adventures
  • Convenient travel bag and easy cleaning make it a practical choice

Cons:

  • No specific drawbacks mentioned by customers
  • May be heavier than other blankets due to its durable design
  • No specific information on the warranty and support information

ONIVA Picnic Tote XL Outdoor Blanket

ONIVA Picnic Tote XL Outdoor Blanket  Get it now on Amazon.com

For large groups or families, the ONIVA Picnic Tote XL Outdoor Blanket is the best choice, offering an extra-large size of 70 x 80 inches to comfortably accommodate 3-4 people.

You’ll appreciate its water-resistant underside, which prevents moisture from seeping through, and its fleece material that provides comfort during outdoor activities.

The blanket is also foldable and compact, making it easy to transport with its adjustable shoulder strap and zippered pocket.

With a weight of 2.2 pounds, it’s lightweight and easy to carry.

Reviewers rave about its comfort, size, and water-resistance, making it perfect for picnics, beach trips, and camping.

Best For: Large groups or families who need a spacious and comfortable outdoor blanket for picnics, beach trips, and camping.

Pros:

  • Extra-large size (70 x 80 inches) to comfortably accommodate 3-4 people
  • Water-resistant underside prevents moisture from seeping through
  • Foldable and compact with adjustable shoulder strap and zippered pocket for easy transport

Cons:

  • Material can be thin and prone to tearing
  • Can be hot to sit on for extended periods
  • Bottom can tear easily if not handled carefully

Little Unicorn Outdoor Family Picnic & Beach Blanket

Little Unicorn Outdoor Family Picnic & Beach Blanket  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Little Unicorn Outdoor Family Picnic & Beach Blanket is designed to be compact and durable, making it an ideal companion for small families and new parents seeking a reliable outdoor partner.

This blanket is perfect for 1-3 people, offering a 5×5 feet space to lounge comfortably.

You’ll love its water-resistant and easy-to-clean material, making it a great choice for outdoor adventures.

The blanket’s compact fold and over-the-shoulder strap make it easy to take everywhere, while its exterior zipper pocket provides convenient storage.

With a 4.8-star rating from 948 customers, this blanket has proven its durability, comfort, and ease of use.

Its lightly padded design keeps it in place even in breezy conditions, ensuring a comfortable picnic experience.

Best For: Small families and new parents seeking a reliable outdoor companion for picnics and beach trips.

Pros:

  • Compact, durable, and water-resistant design makes it perfect for outdoor adventures
  • Easy to clean and maintain, with a convenient exterior zipper pocket for storage
  • Lightly padded for comfort and stability in breezy conditions

Cons:

  • Some customers find the blanket to be a bit heavy
  • Limited to 1-3 people, may not be suitable for larger families or groups
  • No specific warranty information available

Oceas Outdoor Waterproof Stadium Blanket

Oceas Outdoor Waterproof Stadium Blanket  Get it now on Amazon.com

If you need a blanket that can keep you warm and dry in cold and damp outdoor conditions, the Oceas Outdoor Waterproof Stadium Blanket is an excellent choice, thanks to its weatherproof and windproof design.

You’ll appreciate the thicker insulation that provides enhanced comfort, and the water-resistant backing that prevents moisture from seeping in.

This blanket is also incredibly portable, coming with a lightweight and compact design that fits neatly into the included carry bag.

Whether you’re heading to a camping trip, picnic, or sporting event, this blanket is versatile and easy to use.

With its soft and cozy fleece interior, you’ll stay warm and comfortable in any outdoor setting.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and comfortable blanket for camping, picnics, sporting events, and other outdoor activities.

Pros:

  • Provides warmth and comfort in cold weather conditions
  • Waterproof and windproof design keeps users dry in damp environments
  • Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry and store

Cons:

  • Some users have reported issues with size and color options
  • One user experienced a problem with the blanket’s Sherpa side
  • Another user was disappointed with the quality of the fleece side

Factors to Consider When Choosing Picnic Blankets

When selecting the perfect picnic blanket, you’ll want to think about a few key factors.

You’ll need to ponder the material and fabric, as well as the level of water resistance you need.

From there, you’ll want to weigh the size and portability, insulation and warmth, and durability and build to find a blanket that meets your outdoor needs and guarantee you find a blanket that meets your outdoor needs.

Material and Fabric

Picnic blankets made from high-quality materials like polyester, fleece, and Oxford polyester offer a durable, comfortable, and water-resistant experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

When choosing a picnic blanket, you should ponder the material and fabric. Polyester is a popular choice due to its durability, water-resistance, and easy cleaning properties.

Fleece material provides a cozy feel and can be used in combination with other materials to create a water-resistant and insulated blanket. Oxford polyester is another great option, known for its durability and water-resistance.

The thickness of the fabric, measured in GSM, is also vital. A higher GSM indicates a thicker and more insulating fabric, which can affect the blanket’s warmth, comfort, and water-resistance.

You’ll want to weigh the type of fabric and its properties to make certain it can withstand outdoor conditions. By selecting the right material and fabric, you’ll be able to enjoy a comfortable and convenient picnic experience.

Water Resistance Level

You’ll want to think about the water resistance level of your picnic blanket to guarantee it can withstand the outdoor elements, especially if you plan to use it near water or in rainy conditions.

A waterproof blanket is essential for outdoor activities to prevent moisture from seeping through. Look for a blanket with a water resistance level of at least IPX4 to protect against splashing water.

The water resistance level of a blanket can be measured by its ability to withstand water pressure, with higher ratings indicating greater resistance to water penetration.

When choosing a picnic blanket, consider the level of water resistance needed based on the activity.

For example, if you’re planning a beach trip, a waterproof blanket with a rating of IPX7 or higher is ideal.

On the other hand, a water-resistant blanket may be sufficient for park picnics.

Additionally, look for blankets with a waterproof coating or layer, which can provide an added layer of protection against water and moisture.

Size and Portability

Considering the water resistance level of your picnic blanket is only half the battle – now it’s time to think about the size and portability of your blanket to guarantee it fits your group comfortably and is easy to transport.

When choosing a picnic blanket, evaluate a size that accommodates your group comfortably. You’ll want a blanket that’s large enough for everyone to sit on, like the REDCAMP Extra Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket, which measures 79×77 inches and fits 2-4 adults with kids.

Portability is vital, so look for blankets with compact designs that are lightweight and easy to carry.

The DOWN UNDER OUTDOORS Quilted Fleece Stadium Blanket folds up neatly and weighs only 3.1 pounds, making it a great option.

You’ll also want to weigh the benefits of a blanket with a carry bag or strap, like the YETI Lowlands Blanket or the Little Unicorn Outdoor Family Picnic & Beach Blanket, which has an over-the-shoulder hands-free strap and quick-grab handle.

When evaluating portability, think about the blanket’s folded size, like the Oceas Outdoor Waterproof Stadium Blanket, which is compact and easy to store.

Insulation and Warmth

As you weigh your picnic blanket options, prioritize insulation and warmth, two essential factors that can make or break your outdoor experience, especially on chilly days.

A good picnic blanket should provide adequate insulation to keep you warm and cozy. Look for a blanket with a thickness of at least 0.1 centimeters for outdoor use.

The type of insulation used can greatly impact the blanket’s warmth. Fleece materials like 350 GSM anti-pill fleece provide a cozy feel. Heavier blankets generally provide more warmth, such as the 3.1-pound DOWN UNDER OUTDOORS Quilted Fleece Stadium Blanket.

The material used for the blanket’s underside also affects its insulation. Waterproof and windproof materials like polyester help retain warmth.

Additionally, the size of the blanket matters. Larger blankets like the 82L x 55W DOWN UNDER OUTDOORS Quilted Fleece Stadium Blanket provide more space to spread out and stay warm.

Durability and Build

When evaluating picnic blankets, you’re not just looking for a warm and cozy option, but also one that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use and frequent packing and unpacking.

A durable picnic blanket is essential to guarantee it can handle the demands of outdoor adventures. Look for sturdy stitching and reinforced seams that can resist wear and tear.

The material of the blanket also plays a vital role in its durability. For instance, polyester or fleece materials are more resistant to wear and tear than others.

Additionally, a water-resistant or waterproof coating can protect the blanket from moisture and wet ground, prolonging its lifespan. The weight and thickness of the blanket are also key factors, with heavier and thicker blankets often being more durable.

Finally, the construction of the blanket, including the type of filling and the quality of materials used, can greatly impact its overall durability.

Ease of Cleaning

You’ll want a picnic blanket that’s not only durable but also easy to clean, since it’ll inevitably get stained or soiled during outdoor adventures. After all, you don’t want to spend hours scrubbing away at a stubborn stain or worrying about damaging your blanket.

Look for machine washable blankets like the DOWN UNDER OUTDOORS Quilted Fleece Stadium Blanket or ONIVA Picnic Tote XL Outdoor Blanket, which make cleaning a breeze. If you prefer a blanket that’s easy to clean on-the-go, consider options like the REDCAMP Extra Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket, which can be wiped down or shaken clean.

Some picnic blankets, like the Oceas Outdoor Waterproof Stadium Blanket, feature water-resistant or waterproof coatings that make cleaning up spills and stains a snap. Others, like the Little Unicorn Outdoor Family Picnic & Beach Blanket, are made with durable, easy-to-clean materials that can withstand repeated use and cleaning.

When choosing a picnic blanket, consider the ease of cleaning and maintenance to guarantee it remains in good condition for future outdoor adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Wash a Picnic Blanket in a Washing Machine?

When cleaning your outdoor blanket, you’ll want to check the care label first. If it’s machine washable, you can wash it in cold water on a gentle cycle, but it’s best to avoid using harsh detergents or bleach.

Are Picnic Blankets Suitable for Winter Outings?

“March comes in like a lion, goes out like a lamb,” and so should your outdoor adventures. You’ll be happy to know that picnic blankets can be winter-worthy, but it depends on the material and insulation, so choose wisely for a cozy winter outing.

Can I Use a Picnic Blanket as a Beach Towel?

You’re wondering if you can use a picnic blanket as a beach towel? Honestly, it’s not the best idea – picnic blankets are usually thicker and heavier than beach towels, making them less absorbent and more cumbersome to carry.

Do Picnic Blankets Come With Built-In Storage Bags?

Imagine you’re at a music festival, and you’re struggling to pack up your blanket. Luckily, many picnic blankets, like the popular WildHorn Outfitters blanket, come with built-in storage bags, making it easy for you to stash and carry them.

Can I Customize a Picnic Blanket With a Logo or Design?

You can customize a blanket with a logo or design, and many companies offer this service. You’ll need to check with the manufacturer, but most allow you to upload your design or work with their design team.

Conclusion

You’ve got your eyes on the perfect picnic blanket, but which one to choose?

After weighing the options, consider this: the best blanket is one that checks all the boxes – durable, water-resistant, compact, and easy to clean.

The top-rated options deliver, offering a comfortable and convenient outdoor experience.

Visualize your ideal picnic setting, and let the features guide your decision.

With the right blanket, you’ll be ready to soak up the sun and savor every moment.