by Andrea Hegyi, owner of Nap and Sun
Let’s be real: not all picnic blankets are created equal.
You head out with the family, snacks packed, drinks chilled, and you’re feeling good until you spread out your so-called blanket and realise it’s more like a bathmat. Small. Soaks through. And the sand? Everywhere.
We hear this a lot at the markets. People stop by the Nap and Sun stall, spot our setup, and ask: What size should I get? Will it hold up on wet grass? What’s that umbrella hole in the middle all about? Honestly, we love these questions because finding the right picnic blanket really does make a difference to your outdoor plans.
If you’ve been wondering what makes a picnic blanket great, here are answers to the questions we get asked the most (plus a few you might not have thought of).
Whether it’s a beach trip, a park picnic, or a road trip stopover, the right blanket can totally change the vibe.
1. How big should a picnic blanket be for two people? What about families?
For two people, something around 130×150 cm will usually do the job. But bigger is better. More room to stretch out, lie down, invite the dog — it just makes everything more comfortable.
That’s why we recommend extra-large picnic blankets if you’ve got kids or a group. A size around 180 cm can comfortably fit four adults with snacks in the middle and plenty of elbow room, and even more with a 2-metre option.
2. What’s the best fabric for a picnic blanket?
You want something soft on top (because no one wants to sit on scratchy fabric) and tough underneath to handle grass, sand, and damp ground.
We use RPET—made from recycled plastic bottles—for a soft, spill-resistant top layer that’s also eco-conscious. Underneath, there’s a waterproof layer to keep moisture out and give the blanket some grip.
So yes, comfort and practicality are absolutely possible.
3. What’s the difference between a beach towel and a beach blanket?
Great question. A towel is for drying off. It’s usually smaller, bulkier when wet, and tends to collect sand (unless it’s one of the sand-free towels, which shake the sand right off—super handy at the beach).
A beach blanket, on the other hand, is your hangout base. Bigger, flatter, and made to handle outdoor conditions. Look for ones that are waterproof, easy to clean, and roll up compact. Towels and blankets serve different purposes, and you’ll want both for a great day out.
4. What type of blanket is best for picnics?
Look for something that ticks these boxes:
- Waterproof base to keep you dry even on damp grass
- Spill-proof top layer for easy clean-ups
- Machine washable (because life is messy)
- Lightweight and easy to carry (bonus if it comes with a strap)
- And here’s a game-changer: a built-in sun umbrella hole
The last feature gives you better shade coverage by placing your umbrella in the centre, not off to the side. It’s a practical design that our customers love the most for maximizing comfort and staying cool.
5. What kind of picnic blanket lasts the longest?
It’s all in the materials and design.
Look for reinforced edges, quality stitching, and durable fabrics like RPET paired with a strong waterproof base. Cheap picnic rugs tend to fray or lose shape over time.
Good ones? They’ll last you through many summers, road trips, park hangs, and ice cream spills.
6. What is the best picnic blanket for wet grass?
Any blanket with a solid waterproof underside will do the trick.
Sitting on damp ground is the worst. With a strong base, you don’t have to hover or shuffle around to stay dry. Our large picnic rugs are designed exactly for this, so you can relax no matter the conditions.
7. How do you clean an outdoor picnic blanket?
Easy: cold cycle, mild detergent, hang dry. That’s it.
Ours are machine washable and low fuss, no special treatments required. Clean-up should be quick so you can get back outside faster.
8. Is a beach blanket worth it?
Absolutely.
The extra space, comfort, and ease of use make a huge difference. A good blanket gives you a solid base for lounging, snacking, or even a cheeky nap. And when it’s lightweight, folds up small, and doesn’t bring half the beach home with you? 100% worth it.
Bonus points if it comes with smart extras like that built-in umbrella hole.
9. What can I use instead of a beach blanket?
If you’re heading out solo or want something more compact, a sand-free towel is a great alternative. These towels are lightweight and quick drying, making them perfect for beach days or outdoor adventures.
But if you’re with family or just want more room to sprawl, nothing beats a large picnic blanket.
10. Why our picnic blankets are worth a look
We designed them for real life, beach days with kids, park catch-ups, unexpected weather, and everything in between.
Here’s what makes them a favourite:
- 180×180 cm size (fits the whole crew)
- Built-in umbrella hole for effortless shade
- Waterproof base + spill-proof top
- Machine washable
- Folds up compact with carry strap
- Weighs under 1kg
- Made from eco-friendly RPET
They’re practical, good-looking, and built to last. Check out our picnic blanket collection here.
