As warmer days begin to roll out across Australia, there’s one outdoorsy weekend activity we’re particularly looking forward to bringing back: long, lazy picnics with our nearest and dearest.
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Whether you’re planning a romantic lunch for two, a family day at the park, activities for your next camping trip, or simply an afternoon with friends, the perfect picnic setup starts with the basics: a comfy picnic blanket or rug, a practical picnic basket, and somewhere comfortable to sit.
While your charcuterie spread might seem like the star of the show, choosing the right essentials can mean the difference between a picnic that’s more than a little uncomfortable and one you don’t want to leave. The good news, however, is that you don’t need to go all-out to create a picnic worth packing for. As a picnic enthusiast myself, I’ve rounded up all the must-have pieces I adore (or have on my wishlist) so you can copy my recipe for the ultimate outdoor grazing setup
Tick off this ultimate checklist of picnic essentials
A great picnic setup should be practical first and pretty second – although, if you ask me, there’s no reason it can’t be both.
When choosing your picnic gear, look for pieces that are easy to carry (bonus points if they fold up), simple to clean, and versatile enough to be used at the park, beach, or even in your own backyard.
What to pack for a picnic
☐ Picnic blanket
☐ Picnic basket (or insulated bag)
☐ Outdoor cushions
☐ Mini portable table
☐ Reusable plastic plates & cups
☐ Cutlery
From generously sized picnic blankets and clever baskets for keeping everything organised, to comfy seating that you’ll happily lounge on all afternoon, these are the elevated picnic essentials you’ll reach for for years to come.
Must-have picnic blankets for a stylish spread
A picnic blanket is a core staple in any good outdoor setup. In fact, I personally consider them priority #1 (I’ve been burned by unexpectedly damp grass far too many times).
The best picnic blankets are ones that offer everyone enough room to stretch out, boast carry handles and a water-resistant backing, and can be rolled up for easy transport. And make sure to consider how many guests you usually picnic with; an ultra-large picnic blanket may be overkill for couples, but going ‘too big’ will always be a better option than trying to squeeze a large group onto one tiny mat.
Picnic Blanket in Berry
$169 at Hommey
Bambury Sadie Picnic Rug
$114.95 at Myer
Large Check Picnic Blanket
$39.89 at Amazon
Country Road Brie Picnic Blanket
$179 at THE ICONIC
The Somewhere Co. Amalfi
Picnic Rug
$109 at THE ICONIC
Linen House Sundaze
Picnic Rug
$113.99 $189.99 at Linen House
Picnic baskets & kits for easy packing
A picnic basket is about more than looking the part (although I am partial to a classic woven basket); the right one should make it easy to carry food, drinks and picnicware from the car to your chosen patch of grass. Or better yet, you could opt for one that comes with a full set of plates, cups, and cutlery.
If picnicking isn’t a particularly common pastime for you, however, a versatile bag like Hommey’s insulated Tote Bag could be a better fit. With a design that can take you from park to farmers market to grocery store, and look great while doing so, it’s a real all-rounder. In fact, the Marigold colourway is sitting in my cart as we speak.
Alfresco Picnic Basket Set
$86.95 at Myer
Bambury Sadie Picnic Rug
$349 at THE ICONIC
Salisbury & Co Haven Picnic Set
$99.95 $179.95 at Kitchen Warehouse
Insulated Tote Bag in Willow
$99 at Hommey
Cushions & folding chairs for comfortable grazing
Some people may consider chairs and cushions as optional picnic accessories, but I’m definitely not one of them.
When I’m planning a long, lazy afternoon of outdoor grazing, bringing along a comfortable spot to sit is non-negotiable, and compact folding chairs are ideal for keeping your back happy without lugging a full outdoor setting to the park. If you want something less cumbersome, however, floor cushions are another easy way to add extra comfort to your picnic setup.
Outdoor Cushion
$69 at Hommey
Sunnylife Resort Lean Back Chair
$199.99 at Amazon
Sunnylife Take Anywhere Folding Chair
$119.99 at Amazon
Business & Pleasure Co. The Pam Chair
$349 $499 at THE ICONIC
Take your picnic to the next level with these must-try recipes
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