Beautifully crafted baskets? Tick. Practical fold-up chairs? Tick. Picnic rugs worthy of a garden party? Tick, tick, tick. These are the essentials for eating outdoors in style.
There are few summer pleasures more reliably cheerful than a picnic – and that goes for almost any iteration, whether it’s a spontaneous lunch in the park, a beach supper as the sun goes down or a day spent watching cricket from a striped rug, eating outdoors has a way of making even the simplest meal feel like an occasion.
But the food is only half the story. Once you’ve parcelled up your
egg and cress sandwiches and Scotch eggs, the next consideration is, of course, the all-important picnic accessory. A sturdy basket keeps provisions organised, a comfortable
rug encourages happy post prandial lolling and a great cool box keeps proceedings perfectly chilled. Happily, there has never been a better selection of picnic kit available, with brands applying the same design-led thinking to outdoor dining as they do to interiors.
So, whether it’s handsome hampers or portable seating you'll use all summer long, these are the picnic essentials worth packing, not forgetting the
food of course.
The Best Picnic Baskets
Whether you favour a traditional wicker hamper or a contemporary market tote, a good picnic basket should be as practical as it is handsome – carrying everything from sandwiches to chilled rosé with ease.
The Best Picnic Rugs & Outdoor Mattresses
A picnic is only as comfortable as the surface beneath you. From classic tartan throws to generously padded floor mattresses, these pieces make lingering outdoors all the more inviting.
The Best Cool Boxes
Nobody wants warm drinks and wilted food on a hot day. These stylish cool boxes and insulated bags keep everything fresh while looking considerably smarter than the average camping gear.
The Best Plates & Glasses
The best picnic tableware strikes a balance between beauty and durability. Think lightweight materials, cheerful prints and pieces that won't cause heartbreak if dropped on the grass.
The Best Foldable Chairs & Tables
For longer afternoons outdoors, portable seating can make all the difference. These foldable designs are easy to transport and comfortable enough to encourage lingering long after lunch has finished.
FAQs: All you need to know about hosting a picnic
What should you pack for a picnic?
The essentials include a picnic basket or bag, a rug or blanket, reusable plates and glasses, cutlery, napkins, drinks, food and a cool box or insulated bag to keep everything chilled. If you're planning a longer outing, foldable chairs can make the experience much more comfortable.
What food travels well for a picnic?
Sandwiches, Scotch eggs, quiches, sausage rolls, salads, fresh fruit, cheeses and traybakes are all excellent picnic choices. Dishes that can be enjoyed at room temperature tend to work best.
How do you keep food cold during a picnic?
Use a cool box or insulated cooler bag along with frozen ice packs. Packing chilled food directly from the fridge and keeping the cooler out of direct sunlight will help maintain a safe temperature for longer.
What is the best picnic rug?
The ideal picnic rug depends on where you'll be dining. Quilted waterproof rugs are practical for parks and beaches, while cotton mattresses and throws offer extra comfort for longer, more leisurely lunches.
Are wicker picnic baskets practical?
Yes. Traditional wicker baskets are surprisingly robust and offer excellent organisation. Many now include insulated compartments, bottle holders and secure fastening systems, making them both attractive and functional.
What should you wear to a picnic?
is key. Linen dresses, cotton shirts, relaxed tailoring and comfortable sandals or trainers are all sensible choices. Don't forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen if you're spending the day outdoors.
How can you make a picnic feel more special?
Simple touches make a big difference. Real glasses, cloth napkins, fresh flowers, comfortable seating and thoughtfully packed food can transform even a casual picnic into an occasion.
What's the difference between a cool box and a cooler bag?
Cool boxes tend to be more rigid and offer superior insulation, making them ideal for longer outings. Cooler bags are lighter, easier to carry and often better suited to shorter picnics or beach trips.
Can you picnic on the beach?
Absolutely. A beach picnic can be one of summer's great pleasures. Choose a larger rug or outdoor mattress, bring plenty of water and opt for foods that can cope well with warm temperatures and a little sea breeze.
What are the best drinks for a picnic?
Homemade lemonade, iced tea, sparkling water, elderflower cordial and chilled rosé are perennial favourites. If transporting wine, a basket with a dedicated bottle holder or a good insulated flask is particularly useful.
