You heard us: Picnics are back in a big way. While last summer was full of new outdoor adventures, fanny packs, and sporty sandals, this season we’re settling into the warmer months by slowly reuniting with friends and family we’ve missed and making finger foods that won’t spoil on the walk to the park. So put on your bucket hats, lather on some SPF, and gather your gingham-lined baskets. We’ll see you there!
City dwellers: listen up! It's a picnic blanket that zips up into a tote, freeing up your hands for carrying items like your jumbo Jenga set, or Costco sheet cake.
If the classic checkered or gingham look isn't for you, may we offer a more colorful alternative? (P.S. This also zips into a bag for easy transport!)
"It might not be the most sensible pick, but I honestly favor a classic picnic basket to a modern or insulated version. Yeah I'm going to try to put my dog in it too, Dorothy- and Toto-style." -Katrina
A rolling cart isn't exaclty the most hip or aesthetic pick for a picninc in the park, but it's SO USEFUL and you know it. There's much more room for activities, and it's a lot easier to roll a cart than it is to carry a watermelon, baked goods, or a pack of seltzers from your shoulders.
There are dozens of reputable coolers out there, but a Yeti is the status summer cooler and their 5-star ratings support it.
When it comes to packing for a trip to the beach, the park, or your best friend's stoop, you've got to be strategic. This cute backpack is one of the easiest ways to transport your stuff. And it fits 28 cans!
"This is hands down the most useful item I own. Planning a park happy hour? Done. Looking to keep your road trip lunch cool? Check. Psst it's also six-pack tested! -Olivia
Consolidating your sips and snacks into a single bag is no easy feat. Reusable plastic baggies turn your cooler Tetris game into an organized, minimalist, and easy to clean up situation.
Melamine is the easiet solution to outdoor eating, and helps eliminate single-use plastics. These neutral plates from West Elm have a higer ridge to keep food on your plate, and off the ant-covered grass around you.
"I cannot count how many times this utensil set has come in handy." -Olivia
Every committed beach-goer should invest in this portable table. Not only does it help in the quest to keep sand out of your snacks, but it will keep your umbrella centered and stable.
This the the ultimate beach chair. It has everything—a sun shade, drink holder, and a dry bag.
A tent is truly your all-in-one beach tool. A blanket, umbrella, chair, and "this is my space don't come near me" marker, which is key when claiming your spot. Plus the polyester material is ideal for keeping grass, sand, dirt, and gravel outside, instead of carrying it home with you.
Everyone loves a jumbling blocks game and this portable version is perfect for a group.
We're loving this sweet take take on a classic park game that's easy to travel with.
"Okay hear me out...with a puzzle mat, anything is possible. Why not picnic and puzzle in the great outdoors?" -Alisha
"Do you need an inflatable pool? Well, yes. The answer is always yes." -Olivia
Swans and pineapples are cute and all, but we'll pick the sloth float any day.
Whether it's for the park, the beach, the pool, or to sit on in your apartment, Brooklinen's beach towels are big, plush, absorbant, and just nice to look at.
Yes, this is a pool float for your dog, and yes they should get to lounge poolside with you.
"Wild One's newest color is my favorite yet, it's called BUTTER and it's the most fun summer shade. No surprise that my dog will be my pop-of-color summer accessory and companion." -Katrina
Dogs get hot in the sun too. Prep Fido with a cool and comfy spot of his own with this gel-insert bed that can be put in the fridge/freezer for the EXTRA hot days.
Unsun's creamy formula comes in two shades with a small amount of coverage, while fitting a wide range of skintones.
“I had been recommended this so many times before I tried it, and it’s a cult fave for a reason! I love how light it feels, almost like a primer.” -Mary Anne
"Wear your SPF! Specifically this SPF! It protects against UVA and UVB rays, pollution, and blue light." -Olivia
"Raise your hand if you've ever been personally victimized by mosquitos. Well, this is your new line of defense." -Olivia
"This swimsuit seems too good to be true. It comfortably fits 7 sizes in 1 (US 2-14) and supports an A to G cup. In my opinion, it's been life changing not to have to buy new swimsuits every season when I may flucutate sizes. The pregnant people in my life fullheartedly agree!" -Olivia
For fashion-forward swimsuits that are actually comfortable, look no further than Jade Swim's latest collection.
Lively is best known for comfortable bras, but we're really excited about their new swimwear line. The suits can be bought as separates or a mix and match sized bundle set.
Madewell's Second Wave swim line is made from recycled materials, giving their stylish sets a feel-good factor.
"These overalls are the perfect solution for summer picnicwear — casual but not too casual, great for movement, stretchy and comes with adjustable size (a huge win for us petite folk)." -Alisha
"There's a reason I own 4 exercise dresses. I workout in them (they are breathable!), I stroll in them (they are cute!), I picnic in them (there are built in shorts!), and a million other summer-related activities." -Olivia
It's time to bring last year's house dress out on the town. If you bought into the 2020 nap dress trend, this is season to wear those light, flowy, and floral frocks everywhere you go. Why wouldn't you want to feel comfy in the outdoor summer heat?
"Mark my words. These are the sandals of your summer — colorful and comfortable." -Olivia
"I do not own these shoes, but I do stare at them... not infrequently." -Carey
Last year's sport sandals got a major upgrade from Loeffler Randall. Dare we dub this summer the season of gingham?
"This is season 2 (my second summer) for my EVA slides, and I was so happy to get them back out of my closet once it got warm. They're so comfortable and light, but actually offer some support if you're going for a longer walk or running errands." -Katrina
"Love a good baseball hat for sun protection, and this slightly faded coral color would be a great accessory addition to any 'fit.'" -Alisha
"I've been seeing these straw and rattan material hats everywhere (on the internet) and they're the slighty more upscale version of a bucket hat, which make me feel a little more put-together than the 1990's version of the trend." -Katrina
"These masks just scream summer farmers' market. Oh, they fit perfectly too." -Olivia
"No picnic is complete without music. I've had this one for a year and take it EVERYWHERE with me because it's such a small size, the sound quality is great, the battery life is great, and it connects to your iPhone audio with the touch of a button. Also, it's waterproof in case you're a little clumsy at the picnic. ;)" -Alisha
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