Treat yourself to an al fresco feast this summer complete with a roomy picnic blanket to sit on. Looking for a new picnic blanket this summer? We’ve picked out the best waterproof versions that are as stylish as they are practical. Check out our top picnic blanket picks including large designs and tartan styles.
There are a few things to consider when deciding on a picnic blanket, first of which is durability and waterproofing. We looked for designs with sturdy waterproof backing, protecting your picnic from the damp ground or sand on the beach. You’ll also want to consider size so we’ve included a range of large blankets for the whole family and smaller options for couples and friends.
All the picnic blankets are designed with portability in mind, as they roll up into a compact size complete with handles for carrying. Whether you’re going for a hike, a family camping trip or having a beach day, there’s a waterproof picnic blanket for every occasion.
Complete your picnic kit with our best picnic accessories including dinner plates, tumblers, cool bags and picnic baskets. Try our best summer recipes including cocktails, barbecue ideas and fruity desserts.
After, check out Celeste Wong’s lowdown on how to make coffee while camping, so you can enjoy a barista-like drink anywhere you like. For more recipe inspiration, see our best picnic food ideas including sandwiches, wraps, pies and snacks on the go. Don’t forget to pack a portable cocktail or a summer cordial with our best picnic drinks ideas.
Best waterproof picnic blankets at a glance
- Best affordable picnic blanket: M&S Summer Resort Foldaway picnic mat, £14
- Best round picnic blanket: H&M round woven picnic blanket, £24.99
- Best bright picnic blanket: Oliver Bonas checked picnic rug, £65
- Best large picnic blanket: John Lewis & Partners extra large check picnic rug, £30
- Best patterned picnic blanket: H&M patterned picnic blanket, £19.99
- Best classic waterproof picnic blanket: VonShef picnic blanket, £24.99
- Best camping picnic blanket: Greenfield Collection waterproof picnic blanket, £24.99
- Best British picnic blanket: The British Blanket Company waterproof picnic blanket, £126.99
- Best knitted picnic blanket: Sophie Alport lobster picnic rug, £49.50
- Best luxury picnic blanket: Heating & Plumbing wool waterproof picnic blanket, £170
Best waterproof picnic blankets to buy 2024
M&S Summer Resort foldaway picnic mat
- Available from M&S (£14)
Best affordable picnic blanket
This picnic blanket from M&S features a bright pink-and-red checked pattern with blue piping. It’s round, which makes it great for socialising, and folds away with a carry handle making it easy to transport. With dimensions of 135cm x 135cm, this is a great picnic blanket for two, and one of the more affordable blankets on our list.
Available from:
H&M round woven picnic blanket
- Available from H&M (£24.99)
Best minimalist picnic blanket
If you shun bright colours in favour of a muted palette, this picnic blanket from H&M could be a great option, with its rattan-effect material. This is a round picnic blanket, which would be perfect for styling like a tablecloth if you’re planning on hosting a picnic party.
Available from:
Oliver Bonas checked picnic rug
- Available from Oliver Bonas (£65)
Best bright picnic blanket
This checked picnic rug in yellow, pink and cream comes with a pretty pink carry strap for easy transportation. Although it has the look of a traditional picnic rug, this blanket has a waterproof lining to make sure any wet grass doesn’t dampen your picnic.
Available from:
John Lewis & Partners extra-large check picnic rug
- Available from John Lewis & Partners (£30)
Best large picnic blanket
With a cream-and-green checked pattern, this picnic blanket has a PEVA backing to prevent any water transfer from the ground. At 200cm x 170cm, this is an unusually large blanket and would be great for a larger group of people. It also comes with a carry handle in a stylish cream.
Available from:
H&M patterned picnic blanket
- Available from H&M (£19.99)
Best patterned picnic blanket
This brightly patterned picnic blanket has a soft, water-repellent backing and carry handle. It’s available in a range of patterns, including sage green palm leaves, black-and-white sea creatures and blue tropical flowers and animals.
Available from:
VonShef picnic blanket
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Best classic waterproof picnic blanket
In need of extra room for your al fresco feast? Try this large picnic blanket from VonShef in a subtle herringbone pattern. It’s a generous size at 180cm x 147cm, large enough to fit all your snacks and drinks on top. We love this spring colour but it also comes in an understated blue or a neutral beige.
The detachable faux leather carrier is perfect for transportation and the waterproof PEVA backing is sure to keep your picnic spot dry.
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Greenfield Collection waterproof picnic blanket
- Available from Amazon (£24.99)
Best camping picnic blanket
With a classic design, this hard-wearing waterproof picnic blanket from Greenfield Collection will suit those looking for something more traditional. The upper side is made from soft polyester fleece complete with leather-effect PU handles. The underside is fully lined with durable PVC, ensuring it’s resistant to moisture.
Available from:
Amazon (£24.99)
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The British Blanket Company waterproof picnic blanket with straps
- Available from The British Blanket Company (£100)
Best British picnic blanket
Invest in a picnic blanket that’s sure to last year after year, like this one from The British Blanket Company. It’s made from 100% wool from small mills in the British Isles. It also features a durable waterproof canvas backing, ensuring you’ll stay clean and dry all afternoon. The genuine leather handles can attach to a backpack for easy, on-the-go dining. We love the navy blue colour with white stripes but other options are available including pastel pink, spring green and even a rainbow stripe.
Available from:
The British Blanket Company (£100)
Sophie Alport Lobster picnic rug
- Available from Sophie Allport (£48)
Best knitted picnic blanket
Add some character to your outdoor accessories with this lobster print picnic rug from Sophie Allport. The nautical-inspired design would be perfect for a sunny beach picnic or a walk along the coast. The knitted blanket is soft and comfortable to sit on, while the waterproof backing protects from light ground moisture. It comes with sturdy faux leather straps and fringe trim along the edging.
Available from:
Sophie Allport (£48)
Heating & Plumbing Pure new wool waterproof picnic blanket
- Available from Heating & Plumbing (£135)
Best luxury picnic blanket
There’s never been a better time to go all out with an impressive al fresco spread. This luxury blanket from Heating & Plumbing is the ideal option for an eye-catching picnic spot. We love the bright rainbow pattern and the soft 100% pure new wool. The polyester backing is a great touch and the leather handles come in yellow or red. You can complete your picnic stash with a deluxe portable champagne ice bucket for bubbly on the go.
Available from:
Heating & Plumbing (£135)
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