When we think about our picnic setup, people often give the most thought to their picnic hamper, leaving the picnic blanket as a bit of an afterthought.
However, the picnic blanket helps set the scene for our picnic. It establishes our piece of picnic real estate and often, it facilitates the most impromptu picnics. It is the bit of picnic kit we can always have in the car or on hand.
It’s so easy to grab the blanket and throw it down for a takeaway picnic in the park or some wine and cheese at sunset. Use it as a table cover or a place to relax and maybe nap after an alfresco feast. They can also help set the theme at a birthday picnic.
A good picnic blanket will hold you in good stead no matter what your outdoor occasion might be. They also make cherished picnic gifts.
Get More Tips for Perfectly Simple Picnics
Picnics should be simple. These tips for picnic perfection will help simplify any of your al fresco dining endeavors.
Quick Guide to the Best Waterproof Picnic Blankets
Image | Title | Buy |
---|---|---|
Top Top Top | Vonshef Waterproof Herringbone Picnic Blanket. Dimensions: 58″ X 71″ (147.32cm X 180.34cm) | Check Price |
Top Top Top | YETI Lowlands Multi-Use Waterproof Blanket. Dimensions: 55″ X 78″ (139.7cm X 198.12cm) | Check Price |
Top Top Top | Scuddles Extra Large Waterproof & Sandproof Outdoor Blanket. Dimensions: 60″ X 60″ (152.4cm X 152.4cm) | Check Price |
Top Top Top | Good Gain Extra Large Waterproof & Sandproof Picnic Blanket. Dimensions: 60″ X 80″ (152.4cm X 203.2cm) | Check Price |
Top Top Top | Oceas Large All-Weather Waterproof Ourdoor Blanket. Dimensions: 79″ X 58″ (200cm X 147.32cm) | Check Price |
Top Top Top | ONIVA - a Picnic Time brand XL Outdoor Picnic Blanket Tote. Dimensions: 70″ X 80″ (177.8cm X 203.20cm) | Check Price |
Top Top Top | Greenfield Collection Waterproof Picnic Blanket. Dimensions: 58″ X 53″ (148cm X 135 cm) | Check Price |
Why Choose a Waterproof Picnic Blanket?
If you are going to purchase a dedicated picnic blanket, a good waterproof picnic blanket will always be a great investment.
Whether it is cold weather picnics, a perfect spring day picnic, evening concerts in the park or a day at the beach, a waterproof outdoor blanket will keep your bum dry, block out the cold, and help keep sand and dirt out. Often, the waterproof backing can also help the blanket hold its shape, making it easier to move around on. It will also provide extra padding.
ONIVA XL Outdoor Picnic Blanket Tote XL
What to Look For in A Waterproof Picnic Blanket.
These are the key features we look for in every picnic blanket to see if they make the grade. While style is a very important factor of a good picnic blanket, it also needs to be practical for the purpose. Then it becomes a great picnic blanket you will love.
Water Resistance & Durability
Obviously, the first thing you will need to look at is the quality of the waterproof backing. Make sure it is a durable backing that will keep water out and stand up to the rigours of outdoor use.
VonShef Herringbone Waterproof Picnic Blanket
Size
Consider the size of the picnic blanket you need. Too small for your average use is just as unsuitable as a rug so large it is unmanageable.
Portability & Compactness
Does the blanket fold down into a compact and easy to carry size? Does it come with an integrated tote, carry bag or handles? Look for a blanket that will fold compactly so you can keep it on hand in your car or even throw it in the basket of your bike.
Good Gain Extra Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket
Care & Cleaning
One of the reasons we prefer a waterproof picnic blanket is the waterproof backing does the lions share of keeping your blanket (and picnic area) clean. It also helps to make them sandproof – some more than others.
Look carefully at the care instructions when choosing a picnic blanket. Be aware that when you have any waterproofing on a product, the more you wash it, the greater potential that proofing has to break down. While most picnic blankets won’t need more than a shake and a possible wipe down or spot clean, you may want to give it a good wash occasionally.
Many waterproof picnic blankets are designed for spot cleaning only. Some will stand up to a gentle wash now and then. Whereas if you want to invest in a top-quality waterproof blanket, some have the technology to withstand wash after wash without losing any waterproofing such as the Yeti Lowlands Waterproof Outdoor Blanket we review below.
YETI Lowlands Multi-Use Blanket
Comfort & Look
Finally, you need to feel comfortable on your blanket and like the look of it. Whether using it in the traditional sense on the ground or as a table cover. You need to like how it looks and feels.
You Might Also Like: If you want a picnic basket that is both beautiful and practical, we’ve rounded up 6 classic wicker picnic baskets that are classic in style but also practical in design. For romantic picnics; we’ve got gorgeously romantic picnic baskets for 2.
The Best Waterproof Picnic Blankets
With all of this in mind, we have chosen a range of waterproof picnic rugs and outdoor blankets from budget to high end, high tech multi-purpose blankets.
All of these blankets meet our criteria and are aimed to appeal to all picnic budgets. Many are also very suitable investments for all of your outdoor activities, not just picnics.
VonShef Soft Herringbone Pattern Waterproof Picnic Blanket
If you are looking for a classic picnic blanket with a contemporary look, the VonShef Herringbone Waterproof Picnic Blanket is it. VonShef has a gorgeous range of classic fleece picnic blankets with waterproof backings which are very portable and very stylish.
The blanket rolls down quite small, secured with a faux leather carrier with metal buckles which makes it easy to carry and gives your picnic setup a stylish look.
While not as large as some picnic blankets, it is more than large enough for two adults to relax on. Perfect for a romantic picnic for two.
My only complaint with this blanket is that while I love the classic herringbone look, keeping it clean could be a problem. Although it says it is not machine washable, many have had success washing it on a gentle hand wash cycle without an issue. I think the VonShef Herringbone Waterproof picnic Blanket would make a gorgeous picnic gift and a lovely setting for special occasion picnics.
Dimensions
- Blanket Measures: L58″ X D71″ (L147.32cm X D180.34cm)
- Rolled up Measurment: L16.5″ X D6” X H6″ (L41.9cm X D15.24cm X H15.24cm )
- Will fit four adults sitting up or two adults lounging.
Pro’s
- Stylish and classic herringbone design.
- Soft and comfortable fleece top. Especially good for cool weather picnics.
- Waterproof backing to keep you dry.
- Rolls up small with convenient and stylish carry handle.
Con’s
- Not machine washable (although could stand a delicate wash).
- Fleece could be a little warm for hot weather picnics.
- Carry strap does not attach to the blanket.
- Light colour will be prone to getting dirty.
YETI Lowlands Soft Insulated Waterproof Outdoor Blanket
Our Top Pick
The Yeti Lowlands Waterproof Outdoor Blanket is durable, soft, comfortable, waterproof, mudproof, pet-proof, machine washable, and stylish.
While the price tag of this outdoor blanket is a little high at around $199, it seems, it is worth every penny. There’s not a lot about this outdoor blanket you can fault. It is also a very practical multi-use blanket so, I would consider this more than a picnic investment.
It’s incredibly durable yet soft on the outside with a super soft insulated interior layer providing double duty comfort. From the Hydrobarrier waterproof utility layer underneath and supremely soft, insulated interior, to the soft spill/stain-resistant top which repels liquids causing them to bead, not sink in. It is even pet resistant designed to repel dirt, burrs, and pet hair. Easily shake pet hair off the super soft plush finish.
Every detail of this blanket has been meticulously designed to create a one-of-a-kind, all-terrain, ultra-comfortable blanket. It even has utility loops on each corner so you can anchor it down to keep your blanket in place—a proper picnic base camp.
Best of all, it’s easy to keep clean; it is machine washable so you can throw it in the laundry and dryer as you would your regular washing. The blanket folds down into a soft carry case for easy portability.
While the price tag may be a deterrent, it will probably be the last multi-use outdoor blanket you will ever need to buy.
The simple contemporary design comes in 4 modern, stylish colours.
Dimensions
- Blanket Measures: L55″ X D78″ (L139.7cm X D198.12cm)
- Weight: 5.8lbs | 2.63 kg
Pro’s
- Most durable blanket with exceptional waterproof backing.
- Easy to clean – completely machine washable & dryer safe.
- Soft and comfortable.
- Stain and pet resistant.
- Water resistant top.
- Looks great.
Con’s
- High Price tag.
- Some find it difficult to fold back into its carry case. Not a deal breaker.
Scuddles Extra Large Waterproof & Sandproof Picnic Blanket
The Scuddles Extra Large Picnic Blanket is one of the best selling picnic blankets in the budget range thanks to the price, portability and versatility.
One of the larger picnic blankets on the market, it’s not just waterproof, but also sandproof, which makes it perfect for beach picnics.
The blanket has a PEVA waterproof, mould and mildew resistant backing to ensure you always stay dry. It’s also easy to maintain; dirt and sand simply shake off without getting caught in the soft finish and spills wipe off easily. It can also be machine washed occasionally, although a gentle cycle is recommended.
The rug is quick-dry, and while it has a soft and comfortable top layer, it stays cool to the touch for hot weather picnics. Lightweight, the blanket folds up easily and quickly, fastened with velcro into a compact, stylish tote. It also comes with a shoulder strap for easy carrying.
With a nautical stripe design, the Scuddles waterproof picnic blanket will look great at any picnic. A versatile, lightweight, waterproof picnic blanket in the budget range.
Dimensions
- Blanket Measures: 60″ X 60″ (152.4cm X 152.4cm)
- Folded Measurment: L14″ X D9″ (L35.56cm X D22.86cm)
- Will fit four adults sitting up or two adults plus a child and pet lounging.
Pro’s
- Mould and mildew resistant waterproof backing.
- Machine washable.
- Sandproof as well as waterproof.
- Folds down small and is lightweight.
Con’s
- Is thinner than some of the other picnic blankets.
- May not be durable as some in the mid budget range.
Good Gain Wool Extra Large Blended Sandproof & Waterproof Picnic Blanket
One of the largest of all our waterproof picnic blankets, the Good Gain Extra Large Blended Picnic Blanket has the classic picnic aesthetic at the core of its design but with all the practical features you want in a picnic blanket. It is a beautiful picnic blanket in the mid-price range.
The first layer of the picnic blanket is a soft wool feel fleece which gives it a thick, luxurious and comfortable finish. The backing is a durable 300D waterproof material to ensure you always stay dry and is easy to clean.
The fabric is also sandproof, making it very easy to maintain. Shake thoroughly to remove sand and dirt and while not advertised as machine washable; many claim it still looks great after numerous cold cycle washes.
The classic Herringbone design and tassel edge add a beautifully elegant picnic style to your outdoor occasions. The luxury leather look carrier with high quality metal buckles finishes the look and makes it easy to roll and transport. The Good Gain Picnic blanket comes in various colours and classic picnic rug patterns. It makes a beautiful picnic gift.
Dimensions
- Blanket Measures: 60″ X 80″ (152.4cm X 203.2cm)
- Rolled Measurment: 15″ X 8″ (38.1cm X 20.32cm)
- Will fit four adults sitting up or two adults plus a child or pet lounging with room to spare.
Pro’s
- Waterproof and sandproof.
- Extra large size, one of the largest on the market.
- Beautiful classic picnic design.
- Soft, thick and luxurious finish.
- Easy to clean.
Con’s
- It is a little heavier and bulkier than many of the other waterproof picnic blankets.
Oceas Extra Large Warm Fleece Waterproof Outdoor Blanket
The Oceas Outdoor Waterproof Blanket may not be the most beautiful picnic blanket, but possibly one of the most practical multi-use waterproof outdoor blankets. Especially in the budget to mid-price range.
With a double-coated waterproof backing, this blanket is the only guaranteed 100% waterproof blanket on the market. A high quality soft polar fleece on the top keeps you super warm, making it the ideal blanket for winter picnics and outings.
Incredibly durable, 100% waterproof, sandproof, and super soft, the Oceas outdoor blanket is also windproof. These are the reasons people love this blanket. It not only makes an ideal picnic blanket to sit on, but people love it to use as a personal blanket in cold weather to keep wind, rain, and cold out, which makes it an ideal second blanket for cold day picnics.
Also super large, it can comfortably wrap around a few adults if required. Perfect for game day picnics or when the wind picks up at the beach. While a perfect contender for cold weather picnics, this blanket is also super light so perfect to have on hand for all-year-round activities.
The Oceas blanket is so durable; a 30-day Money-Back Guarantee backs it with a free 1-year replacement warranty. The oversize lightweight blanket rolls up, held by an elastic strap and slips into a water-resistant carry bag.
Dimensions
- Blanket Measures: 79″ X 58″ (200cm X 147.32cm)
- Folded Measurment: 15″ X 7″ (38.1cm X 17.78cm)
- Will fit four adults sitting up or two adults lounging with room to spare.
Pro’s
- 100% waterproof, windproof and sand proof.
- Incredibly durable with money back guarantee and 1 year warranty.
- Light weight and versatile.
- Machine washable.
Con’s
- Not as attractive as some picnic blankets.
- Not very thick when used to sit on.
- The layers can shift as they are only attached at the edges.
ONIVA Picnic Time Brand Waterproof Outdoor Picnic Blanket Tote
The ONIVA XL Picnic Blanket Tote has all the essential features plus more and looks great.
A cosy, portable picnic blanket with a soft fleece topside and waterproof underside that packs compactly into a carry tote with shoulder strap for ease of portability.
What I love about this picnic blanket is the extra-large size, one of the largest in our selection, it folds out to a generous 38 square feet. The tote also has a large zippered hidden security pocket where you can stash keys, phones etc. I love this thoughtful feature.
The Oniva Picnic picnic blanket is also covered by the Picnic Time “Built to Last” Lifetime replacement pledge. If for any reason the product fails to perform as promised, Picnic Time Family of Brands will repair or replace your item without hassle – for life.
Comes in six colours and designs.
Dimensions
- Blanket Measures: 70″ X 80″ (177.8cm X 203.20cm)
- Folded Measurment: 18″ X 15” X 11″ (45.72cm X 38.1cm X 27.94cm )
- Will fit 4-6 adults sitting up 3-4 adults lounging.
Pro’s
- Extra large, one of the largest on the market.
- Machine washable & dryer safe.
- Waterproof backing with quality soft top finish.
- Stylish picnic design.
- Quality tote carry design with zippered hidden pocket for personal items.
Con’s
- Some people complain about it being difficult to fold back up. Perhaps due to the large size.
Greenfield Collection Waterproof Picnic Blanket
We use the Greenfield Collection for our picnics and have this blanket as part of our Greenfield Picnic Backpack for 2 set.
The Super Deluxe versions are one of our top choice brands in our round-up of the best picnic backpacks for two and picnic backpacks for four.
With a typically classic picnic plaid design, the Greenfield Picnic Blanket has a lovely soft finish with the waterproof backing to ensure you stay dry. It comes in two colour designs to match the associated picnic bags. I like that the colour choices are quite dark which makes them forgiving on dirt. However, the blanket can be washed on a gentle cycle if needed.
The blanket also folds in its own quality water-resistant tote with velcro closure for ease of portability. The tote stays attached to the blanket, so you don’t have to worry about them separating. There is the possibility of an additional shoulder strap.
It’s very lightweight, yet very durable and has a lovely classic picnic aesthetic. I think, while this blanket can fit four adults, it is best suited to couples.
Dimensions
- Blanket Measures: 58″ X 53″ (148cm X 135 cm)
- Suitable for 3-4 adults sitting, 2 adults lounging.
Pro’s
- Waterproof backing with soft stylish top finish.
- Quality, integrated water resistant tote carrier.
- Packs down slim into the tote.
- Machine washable.
- Has a matching picnic set.
Con’s
- Some people find it difficult to fold into the tote. I don’t have this problem.
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