Seven Picnic Gear Essentials for Families

But if you want your picnic to be successful and stress-free, you’ll want to make sure you have the following seven essentials with you.

1. A Quality Picnic Blanket

You can’t have a family picnic without a picnic blanket (obviously!).

A quality blanket provides comfort and keeps bottoms off of damp grass. It also defines your picnic space. 

In addition to selecting a blanket that’s the right size (i.e., depending on the size of your family), look for a heavy-duty option. After all, it will be used outdoors in the elements.

It should also be machine-washable, as spills are bound to happen, and it’s sure to pick up dirt on the underside.

And for an eco-friendly choice, consider a picnic blanket that’s made from recycled materials. 

The Nakie picnic blanket is an ideal option, as it’s large, heavy-duty, machine-washable, and made from recycled plastic bottles. 

Additional features worth considering? They include:

• Built-in handles or straps (for easier carrying).
• Corner loops or weights (to keep it stable on windy days).
• Waterproof backing.

Don’t overlook the importance of choosing the right picnic blanket!

2. A Leak-Proof Cooler

Your picnic food needs to stay fresh. And seeing as picnics almost always take place on warm or hot days, it’s essential that the drinks remain cool. 

So, make sure you invest in a cooler that’ll keep your drinks cold and ensure your food doesn’t perish. 

Pick a quality cooler to make certain it doesn’t leak. (No one wants that!)

And choose one that is suitable for the size of your family. (If your family often has picnics with friends or extended family, you’ll want to take that into consideration.)

Plus, the cooler needs to be lightweight enough to carry comfortably - when it’s fully loaded, that is.

And coolers with multiple compartments are useful for organizing things like snacks and ice packs. 

Opt for durable bases to prevent tipping or sliding on uneven ground.

Other helpful features to consider include:

• Shoulder straps or backpack-style carrying options.
• Exterior pockets.
• An easy-drain plug to empty melted ice.

Remember: a dependable cooler is essential!

Image source: Pixabay

3. A Kid-Safe Tableware Set

Packing safe and durable tableware is key when eating outdoors with kids. 

Opt for materials like:

• BPA-free plastic.
• Silicone.
• Stainless steel. 

Also, choose a lightweight set. It will be easier to transport and handle.

And look for items that stack neatly together to save space during packing.

Are your children young? If they are, you might also choose sets that contain:

• Spill-proof sippy cups or water bottles.
• Utensils with rounded edges - that are designed with safety in mind.

Child-safe tableware will make your outdoor dining experience stress-free - for everyone.

4. Compact Folding Furniture

Comfortable seating and a stable surface are sure to make any picnic more enjoyable.

Compact folding chairs provide the support and comfort that’s required for longer stays, whilst a lightweight table offers a clean area to serve food. 

Look for sturdy outdoor furniture designs that fold flat - for easy transportation.

Other features? You might also look for:

• Anti-slip feet.
• Water-resistance.
• Built-in handles or straps for easier portability.

And if you have young children, you might need to take a smaller child-sized table with you, or lots of cushions to raise the height of chairs.

Image source: Unsplash

5. A Sunshade Tent or Parasol

Protecting your family from the sun’s harmful UV rays during a picnic is (of course) of high importance. 

A sunshade tent or a large parasol/umbrella will provide much-needed relief on hot days. 

Before buying, consider the weight and size of each option to ensure easy transportation. (Though the larger your family, the more hands there will be available to help transport items from the car or RV to the picnic spot!)

Image source: Pexels

6. Bug Repellents

Pesky bugs can ruin even the best-planned picnic.

So, make sure you protect your family with effective bug repellent options that are designed to ward off horrible mosquitoes and other annoying insects, such as: 

• Sprays.
• Lotions.
• Candles. 

If you opt for a bug-repellent spray, choose a DEET-free one to be safe for your kids - or select natural repellents that are made from essential oils.

Citronella candles are a great choice for stationary setups. They offer the dual benefit of ambiance and protection. 

Portable bug zappers can also work well in areas with heavy insect infestations.

You could also consider these solutions:

• Wearable repellent bands.
• Tabletop lanterns.

Also, it’s a good idea to take mesh food covers with you to keep those unwanted and nasty bugs away from your sumptuous food.

7. A Trash Bag Holder or Portable Bin

Keeping your picnic area clean is important - for both convenience and the environment. 

A trash bag holder or portable bin will provide you with a designated place for waste. 

Look for lightweight options that fold flat when not in use - to save space during transport.

And if you’re planning an extended outing, consider a bag holder or bin that has a lid in order to keep odors contained and pests at bay.

Also, you may want to choose features like:

• Clips or ties to secure bags.
• Separate compartments for recycling items.
• Waterproof materials for easy cleaning.

Keeping trash contained ensures your picnic spot remains tidy. And it makes packing up at the end of the day quicker and hassle-free!

Author bio: Harry Wolf is a freelance writer. For almost a decade, he has written on topics ranging from fun travel tips to business leadership for multiple high-profile websites and online magazines.

Image source: Pexels