The best picnic accessories guide: blankets, picnicware and more
Picnic season is in full swing and whether you’re feasting on frittatas in the park or snacking on sarnies in your garden, having the right kit is essential. Check out our round-up of must-have picnic accessories, from stylish hampers to reusable plates.
Want to know where to buy an outdoor picnic blanket? Looking for the best picnic plates? Read on for our guide to al fresco dining accessories to perfect your picnic style this summer. We've got you covered whether you're venturing far afield or just planning to eat in the garden, from lightweight plates and colourful cutlery sets to the perfect picnic basket to carry your lunch in. Plus, we've thought of little extras for a luxury picnic experience, such as ice stones to keep drinks cool or sustainable beeswax wrap to package up sarnies.
Once you’ve got your essentials sorted, check out our best picnic recipes for all the outdoor eating ideas you need. Don’t forget drinks! Read our guide to the best canned cocktails to try and add a few to your next hamper.
Best picnic accessories to buy 2023
Jonny's Sister personalised circular pink picnic blanket
- Available from Not on the High Street (£38)
Add a pop of colour to your picnic with this unique round blanket. Combining wide pink and white stripes with a touch of boho chic in the fringed edging, this soft cotton blanket is large enough to accommodate a crowd. It can also be personalised to make a great summer gift – think wedding presents and housewarmings. Also available in blue.
Available from:
Not on the High Street (£38)
John Lewis & Partners ANYDAY plastic jug and four tumblers
- Available from John Lewis (£10)
Whether you're picnicking in the garden or venturing further afield, this clever jug and tumblers set is ideal. The practical jug has a generous 2-litre capacity and handled lid, while the set of four matching tumblers fit neatly inside – just the thing for carrying home at the end of the day, and for easy storage the rest of the year.
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Available from:
John Lewis (£10)
Wayfair lidded picnic basket with check lining
Add a more retro feel to your picnic with a classic wicker basket. Decorated with a pretty red gingham trim, this basket is perfect for a simple afternoon in the countryside when you have a slightly smaller load to carry or you’re not straying far from the car.
Partner in Wine insulated wine bottle and tumbler
- Available from Selfridges (bottle £35, tumbler £20)
Planning a leisurely lunch in the sunshine? Don't worry about lukewarm wine – Partner in Wine, founded in 2020, is here to ensure it stays perfectly chilled all afternoon. The insulated bottle holds an entire 750ml bottle of wine and is more practical than frozen wine chillers or melting ice packs – it'll also keep contents cool for up to 24 hours. If you don't need a whole bottle, go for the roomy double-walled tumbler with clever leakproof opening.
Available from:
Selfridges (bottle £35, tumbler £20)
M&S floral picnic salad bowl
- Available from M&S (£14)
This colourful floral salad bowl is made from lightweight melamine, and perfect for serving picnic centrepieces (check out our best summer salad recipes for inspiration). Matching melamine plates, bowls and platters are available in the same pattern if you want to complete the whole set.
Available from:
M&S (£14)
Dunelm acrylic wine glasses (set of four)
- Available from Dunelm (£5)
Bring a touch of class to your picnic and serve wine in style. This set of four wine glasses is a bargain at just £5, and we love the subtle ribbed design. Ideal for drinking in the garden or taking on picnics without any fear of smashing.
Available from:
Dunelm (£5)
Lakeland mosaic serving platter
- Available from Lakeland (£12.99)
If you're cooking for a picnic crowd, bring your feast in Tupperware, then serve on this pretty platter. It's generous in size, so it's perfect for piling high with salads or sausage rolls, and is dishwasher-safe for easy clean-up when you get home.
Available from:
Lakeland (£12.99)
Ellen Merchant melamine dinner plates
- Available from Anthropologie (£27)
Our pick of picnic plates is this pretty set from Anthropologie. The set of three combines different floral and mosaic patterns, and the plates are made from bamboo, but are still dishwasher-safe. Use as colourful serving or dinner plates for picnics for two.
Available from:
Anthropologie (£27)
Hi-gear 16-piece cutlery set
You won’t lose your cutlery when camping with this neon green set. This comprehensive set of 16 pieces (four x knives, forks, spoons and teaspoons) will meet the whole family's needs and is perfect for picnics and campfires all summer long.
Sydney The Sloth lunch box
- Available from Rex London (£4.95)
From fruit salads to frittatas, this fun lunch box will keep your food fresh and easy to transport, as well as making sure any leftovers can be carried back with ease.
Available from:
Rex London (£4.95)
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