How to Choose the Best Picnic Blanket

The material is one of the most important factors to consider because it affects how comfortable, durable and practical a picnic blanket will be. While there are plenty of synthetic options available, natural fibres like Merino wool offer several benefits that make them well suited to outdoor use.

When comparing picnic blanket materials, consider the following:

• Comfort: A picnic blanket should provide a soft and comfortable place to sit, whether you're enjoying lunch, reading a book or relaxing with family and friends.
• Breathability: Breathable fibres allow air to circulate more easily, helping improve comfort across different weather conditions.
• Temperature regulation: Natural fibres such as Merino wool help provide warmth on cooler days while remaining comfortable during milder weather.
• Durability: A well-made picnic blanket should withstand regular outdoor use and continue looking great for years with proper care.

Choosing a picnic blanket made from quality materials often provides better long-term value, especially if you enjoy spending time outdoors throughout the year.

If you're looking for a premium wool picnic blanket, Waverley Mills' Traditional Picnic Rugs are woven in Tasmania from 100% Australian Merino wool, combining natural comfort with timeless design.

The ideal picnic blanket size depends on how you plan to use it. While a compact blanket may be easier to carry, it can quickly become crowded once you've added food, drinks, bags and other picnic essentials. Choosing the right size helps ensure everyone has enough room to relax comfortably.

As a general guide:

• For one or two people: A medium-sized picnic blanket provides enough space to enjoy a meal or unwind outdoors without taking up unnecessary room.
• For families: A larger picnic blanket gives children more room to play while accommodating picnic baskets, bags and other essentials.
• For groups: If you regularly picnic with friends or attend outdoor events, a larger blanket provides greater flexibility and shared seating space.

If you're deciding between two sizes, choosing the larger option often gives you more versatility across different occasions.

If you'll be walking to your picnic destination, portability is another important factor to consider. A picnic blanket that's bulky or difficult to carry may end up staying at home more often than you'd like.

When comparing picnic blankets, think about:

• How easily it rolls up after use.
• How comfortable it is to carry, particularly if you'll be walking longer distances.
• How much storage space it requires when packed away.
• Whether accessories, such as a carry strap, are available to make transport easier.

A picnic blanket that's easy to pack and carry is more likely to become something you take on spontaneous picnics, beach days and weekend getaways.

Different outdoor activities place different demands on a picnic blanket, so it's worth thinking about how you'll use yours most often. Choosing a picnic blanket that's suited to your favourite activities will help ensure you get the most value from it.

For example:

• Parks and gardens: Comfort is often the priority, as you'll typically spend longer sitting, relaxing or enjoying a picnic.
• Beaches: A durable picnic blanket provides a comfortable place to sit while enjoying the sand and coastline. Choosing one that's easy to carry also makes getting to and from the beach much more convenient.
• Wineries: A comfortable, well-crafted picnic blanket is ideal for outdoor wine tastings, long lunches and relaxing on the lawns at your favourite winery.
• Camping: Frequent camping trips call for a picnic blanket that's durable, comfortable and designed to withstand regular use.

If you enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, choosing a versatile picnic blanket means you'll be able to use it in a wide range of settings throughout the year.

If you prefer a more contemporary look, Waverley Mills' Traditional Check Picnic Rugs combine the same premium Merino wool craftsmanship with modern check designs.

A picnic blanket is something you'll hopefully enjoy for many years, making quality craftsmanship just as important as the material itself. Careful construction helps a blanket retain its appearance, comfort and durability through regular use, making it a worthwhile investment if you spend a lot of time outdoors.

When comparing picnic blankets, look for:

• Premium materials that provide lasting comfort and durability.
• Quality weaving and finishing that help the blanket withstand regular use.
• Timeless designs that will continue to look good for years to come.
• Experienced manufacturers with a long-standing reputation for producing quality textiles.

For more than 150 years, Waverley Mills has been weaving premium wool textiles in Tasmania, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary Australian design.

Choosing the right picnic blanket comes down to understanding how you'll use it. By comparing the material, size, portability and quality of craftsmanship, you can find a picnic blanket that's comfortable, practical and suited to your outdoor lifestyle.

Before making your decision, ask yourself:

• What material best suits my needs?
• How much space do I need?
• Will I be carrying it regularly?
• Where will I use it most often?
• Is it made to provide years of reliable use?

Taking the time to consider these factors will help you choose a picnic blanket that's ready for everything from relaxing afternoons in the park to camping trips and outdoor adventures.

Once you've chosen the right picnic blanket, a quality carry strap can make transporting and storing it much easier.

The Leather Carry Strap is designed specifically for Waverley Mills picnic and travel rugs, allowing you to keep your rug neatly rolled while making it more comfortable to carry to parks, beaches, wineries and camping trips.