Picnics and the great outdoors go hand in hand — whether it's a casual day in the park, a fancy celebration, or a weekend by the beach — a picnic with your nearest and dearest is always a good idea.
In this article, we are going to tell you exactly what makes up the perfect picnic rug.
The best part is, will also provide you with a list of unique Australian brands that, through our research, provide exceptional picnic mats which will suit the needs of every adventurer! These rugs are all on trend for a great Australian xmas and 2022 summer!
As an added bonus, we have provided you with some handy tips and tricks and how to plan a memorable picnic with your family and friends.
But where do you have a picnic? We have created a special list of the ideal Australian locations perfect for picnics and your new picnic rugs.
This blog is 'Best Picnic Rugs + How & Where to Plan Your Perfect Picnic'.
Let's get right into it.
What makes an excellent Picnic Rug
Australia's Best Picnic Rugs
How and Where to Plan Your Perfect Picnic
BONUS #2, we have an exclusive The Young Folk Collective discount code below. 😊
What is a Picnic Rug?
A picnic blanket, picnic mat or rug is typically a large piece of fabric to lay on the ground. It instantly creates a space for you to enjoy that is comfortable and free of sticks, sand and bugs.
A good mat is an essential item for your outdoor adventures to the park, the outback, or the beach. They create a safe and comfortable environment for you to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
What Makes an Excellent Picnic Mat?
Below are 5 essential factors which make up a good picnic blanket. We will give you a brief overview of each to help describe how to spot the best picnic mat for you.
- Sized for many people
You want your picnic mat or mats to be able to comfortably accommodate and make a cosy spot for all the guests at your gathering.
Since your picnic blanket will also need room to place your food, be sure to factor in the space required for your platters and nibbles.
- Comfortable to lay on
A picnic is a relaxing, social event; for this reason, you will want to choose a mat that provides enough comfort for the duration of your time outside!
Your mat will need to be durable and thick enough to create a soft barrier between you and the ground and so it doesn't get punctured by rocks or sticks.
- Waterproof
A picnic rug that protects against the elements is the ideal choice. A waterproof barrier prevents water, mud, and other moisture from seeping through and dampening your food, clothing, and ultimately — ruining your picnic.
Look for a picnic blanket that has a water-repellent or water-resistant coating on the underside to keep you dry and comfortable and on top to catch any spills or water, making them easy to wipe off.
- Easy to Clean
As picnics can be messy from split food and the surrounding environment, be sure to choose a picnic rug material that is easy to clean.
A great choice is a mat with a protective water-resistant coating; this makes brushing off dirt, leaves, grass and sand easy.
For rugs that need to be washed, pay close attention to the instructions to see whether it's hand-wash only as placing some mats into the washer and dryer can erode their moisture-proof qualities.
- Portability
Many pieces make up the perfect picnic, so your hands are likely to be packed! A picnic rug that is easy to fold or roll up is essential. An added bonus if your rug has a carry strap or bag to make transportation effortless.
- Design
Luckily, there are now designs on the market to suit everyone's taste! Choose a pattern that represents your personality and adds to the appeal of your picnic.
OK, so now you know the factors of what makes up a quality picnic rug.
Want know the best part?
We have already done the hard research for you and handpicked the best picnic mats Australia has to offer using the criteria outlined above.
Drumroll please.....!
Our list of Best 12 Picnic Rugs to Buy for Xmas Summer 2022
The Young Folk Collective
Here at The Young Folk Collective, we have carefully selected our picnic rugs' design and materials based on the 6 key factors outlined above on what makes a great picnic mat. We are proud to introduce these to you, affordably priced without compromising quality.
Price: $109 (200 cm x 200 cm)
- Our Picnic Rugs are made from the highest quality Cotton/polyester Oxford water resistant material.
- A Foam Core is at the heart of our picnic mats, giving them extra comfort.
- Extremely Water Resistant making them perfect to take them anywhere and everywhere with you!
- They are very easy to clean - A soft damp cloth will clean up any spills.
- Sized at a HUGE 2m x 2m - Our Large picnic rugs will fit multiple people on them.
- A Luxury Leather Strap handmade in Guatemala is *optional*, making them so easy to carry.
- Easy to roll up with our simple fold and roll design keeping them compact.
- They are so durable and will last you for years to come!
- Designs created by our favourite Australian artists!
We are proud to display our Google 5 Star Rating.
Other Australian Brands:
Through our research, we have determined that the below companies are also producing unique picnic mats.
Price: $99 (200 cm x 200 cm)
What we love:
Annabel's Picnic Mats feature cushioning with inner foam, easy to fold and roll up with a velcro closure and carry handle. Available in many colourful designs!
Isla In Bloom
Price: $209.95 (200 cm x 160 cm)
What we love:
Beautiful and vibrant timeless designs are a cornerstone of Isla in Bloom. Inspired by nostalgic memories in the sun, this warm, golden colour palette evokes a true sense of happiness. Their picnic rugs and blankets are woven with 100% recycled cotton. Not only is their chosen material soft, but creates balmy hues of brown, pink, cream and shades of yellow. Proudly designed in Australia, these beauties are a crowd pleaser.
Wandering Folk
Price: $190 (164 cm x 147 cm)
What we love:
These gorgeous rugs are made of cotton canvas which features a unique hand-drawn artwork on the top side that is Ultra Violet Protected, keeping the fantastic hand-drawn designs vibrant for years! Their picnic rugs are just beautifully rolled up with the tassels hanging down and intricate handwoven shoulder strap to carry around easily.
Picnic Season
Price: $199 (290 cm x 290 cm)
What we love:
Picnic Season's beach mats are big, like, REALLY BIG!. They can fit up to 9 adults with oodles of kids. We really like their picnic pegs which purposely fit into reinforced eyelet corners in their mats, preventing the mat from blowing away in the wind.
Hendeer
Price: $159 (200 cm x 1570 cm)
What we love:
The bold geometric nomadic designs meets boho earthy colours makes for a striking picnic rug that will make heads turn!.
These rugs are perfect for picnics or beach blanket outdoors...as a throw or wall tapestry, indoors.
We especially like Hendeer as a brand as for every sale, $1 goes to a charity of your choice.
Kollab
Price: $99 (200 cm x 200 cm)
What we love:
A Kollab waterproof picnic rug is sure to turn heads with its tasteful yet bold floral colourful designs. We especially love their no-fuss canvas strap for rolling or folding up securely, making for a quick getaway from your picnic.
Grampians Goods Co
Price: $249 (175 cm x 157 cm)
What we love:
Soft but durable, you can use these beautiful tartan picnic rugs to snuggle up during winter or enjoy a classy, comfortable picnic in the wild Australian Outback during the warmer months.
If you want authentic Scottish tartan wool picnic rug, then these are perfect for you.
In Her Element
Price: $139 (150 cm x 150 cm)
What we love:
Get ready for an abundance's of picnics, sticky fingers, love and laughter with an In Her Element beach mat. They are designed to be machine washable as they are made from 100% waterproof polyester canvas, making them high quality and durable.
Rudie Nudie
Price: $99 (130 cm x 130 cm)
What we love:
Take your Rudie Nudie mat anywhere you go, with it being super lightweight. From the bed to the beach, Rudie Nudie beach mats can be enjoyed anywhere. Available in three sizes to suit every age and stage, they come with a soft fabric top and a waterproof base. Our favourite part is that they are machine washable!
Salty Aura
Price: $177 (200 cm x 160 cm)
What we love:
A Salty Aura picnic blanket is made from 100% recycled cotton, making them soft and non-irritant with good air permeability. They are great at keeping the wind off your skin on those cold nights. The tightly woven materials also allow them to be used as a picnic rug, shielding you from the sand, grass or prickles.
The quality of blankets from Salty Aura will travel with you everywhere, from the outdoors and right into your home.
OK, you've picked your perfect picnic rug, where to from here?
We've got your back for the info below:
How and Where to Plan Your Perfect Picnic
A picnic set-up can be as straightforward or as extravagant as you like. Impromptu fish and chips by the water are just as enjoyable as a well thought out picnic-style feast.
The ideal picnic includes:
- Nothing more than your favourite people.
- Heading to an enjoyable location, a picnic rug to sit on.
- Packing a trusty picnic basket filled with delicious food and drinks.
- You can also add on some friendly games to liven the mood!
What you need to bring
Something to sit on:
Our Picnic Mats have been purposely made to suit any terrain, made from a thick waterproof material; they will make any ground worth spending time on!
A trusty picnic basket:
Pair our picnic rugs with our best selling Bolga Baskets. They are made from the sturdiest fibre on the market — traditional Elephant grass market baskets can withstand the largest of picnic basket hauls and will last you a lifetime.
A delicious picnic menu:
The best picnic foods are quick to make and easily portable to your favourite outdoor spot. Finger foods such as antipasto platters, fruit, crackers and dips, cold sandwiches, fish and chips, and a selection of salads... and don't forget to pack a chilled drink or warm thermos to make a warm cup for the cooler months.
Picnic games and activities:
- Bocce Ball.
- Trivia.
- Croquet.
- Frisbee.
- Backyard Cricket.
- Sing-a-longs.
- Ring Toss.
Extra fun for the little ones!
- Bubbles - nothing beats the simplicity of bubbles!
- Three-legged race.
- Scavenger Hunt.
- Hide and Seek.
Now, you might be wondering : You have your perfect picnic blanket and goodies all ready, but where do you go to set up your beautiful picnic.
An enjoyable location — Favourite picnic grounds and picnic areas around Australia include:
There's nothing quite like a picnic. Basking in the summer sun, there's something special about enjoying a meal outdoors. And what better place to do it than Australia? With its endless beaches, sprawling parks and stunning landscapes, this country is a picnic paradise.
To help you make the most of your next picnic, we've put together a list of our favourite spots from around Australia. So whether you're looking for an idyllic setting for a romantic lunch or somewhere to take the kids for a fun-filled day out, you'll find it here.
Australian Capital Territory Picnic Spots
ACT home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, making it the perfect place to enjoy a picnic. Here are some of the best places to picnic in Australian Capital Territory:
1. National Arboretum Canberra
Located just outside of Canberra, this arboretum is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature. With over 100 different species of trees, it's also a great spot for birdwatching.
2. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is located just outside of Canberra and is home to an abundance of native wildlife. It's the perfect place to enjoy a bush picnic while spotting kangaroos, wallabies and other animals in their natural habitat.
3. Yerrabi Pond District Park
This park is located in the Gungahlin region of Canberra and features a large pond which is perfect for a summer picnic. There's also a playground and BBQ facilities, making it the perfect spot for a family picnic.
4. Corin Forest Mountain Resort
This mountain resort is located just outside of Canberra and offers stunning views of the Snowy Mountains. It's the perfect place to enjoy a winter picnic, with plenty of blanket-friendly spots to choose from.
5. Googong Foreshores
Located on the NSW/ACT border, Googong Foreshores is a beautiful spot for a picnic any time of year. With sweeping views of Lake Burley Griffin, it's the perfect place to relax and enjoy a bite to eat.
6. Australian National Botanic Gardens, Canberra.
Australian National Botanic Gardens The Australian National Botanic Gardens is located in Canberra and is home to a huge variety of native plants. It's the perfect place for a picnic if you're looking to learn more about the flora of Australia.
New South Wales
1. Centennial Park, Eastern Suburbs, Sydney.
If you're looking for a beautiful spot to enjoy a picnic in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, you can't go past Centennial Park. With its lush gardens, scenic lakes and sprawling green spaces, the park provides the perfect setting for a leisurely lunch or an afternoon snack. And with so many picnic spots to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot to suit your mood. For breathtaking views of the city skyline, head to the Belvedere Amphitheatre. Or if you're after some tranquility, make your way to the lakefront and enjoy the peaceful surrounds. Whatever your picnic style, you're sure to find the perfect spot in Centennial Park.
2. Hyde Park, Sydney.
Hyde Park is one of the most popular picnic spots in Sydney. There are plenty of shady trees to spread out a picnic blanket, and the park is close to many of the city's top attractions. The park also has an impressive array of sculptures and monuments, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring. For those looking for a more active picnic, there are also several tennis courts and a large playground. No matter what your picnic style, Hyde Park is sure to have something for everyone.
3. Palm Beach, Northern Beaches.
A local favourite and known for the best spot for picnicking is undoubtedly at the southern end of the beach, where you'll find a large stretch of grassy area shaded by palm trees. There's also a playground nearby, so it's perfect if you're picnicking with a young family.
If you're looking for a more secluded spot, head to the northern end of Palm Beach, where you'll find several small sheltered bays. These make for ideal picnic spots as they're well protected from the wind and offer stunning views out over the ocean. Whichever spot you choose, Palm Beach is sure to make your picnic an enjoyable one!
4. Ballast Point Park, Birchgrove.
If you're looking for a great picnic spot in Birchgrove, you can't go wrong with Ballast Point Park. The park has a large grassy area perfect for setting up a blanket and enjoying a meal. There are also plenty of trees for shade on hot days, and the views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge are simply unbeatable. Best of all, the park is located just minutes from the city centre, making it easy to get to no matter where you're coming from. So if you're looking for a relaxed spot to enjoy a picnic with friends or family, be sure to head to Ballast Point Park.
5. Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden, Lavender Bay.
For a relaxing picnic by the water, Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden in Lavender Bay is hard to beat. With its lush lawns, secluded seating areas and stunning views of the Harbour Bridge and city skyline, the garden is the perfect place to while away a summer afternoon. And for those who like to take their picnics with a side of culture, the nearby Art Gallery of New South Wales and Museum of Contemporary Art are both within easy walking distance. So whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy a book or an Instagram-worthy backdrop for your next picnic spread, Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden has you covered.
6. Hunter Valley Gardens, Hunter Valley.
The Hunter Valley is a beautiful place to enjoy a picnic, and Hunter Valley Gardens is no exception. With its manicured gardens and stunning views, it's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal with friends or family. There are plenty of picnic spots to choose from, so you're sure to find one that suits your needs. Whether you're looking for a shady spot to escape the heat or a sunny spot to soak up the rays, there's sure to be a spot that's just right for you. So what are you waiting for? Grab your picnic basket and head to Hunter Valley Gardens for a day of fun in the sun!
7. Bateau Bay Beach, Central Coast.
Nestled between the sand dunes and the bush, Bateau Bay Beach is a hidden gem on the Central Coast. This sheltered beach is perfect for a picnic, with plenty of space to spread out a picnic rug and enjoy the view. The sparkling water and gentle waves make it a great spot for swimming, and there are also plenty of rocks to explore. With its sandy shores and lush surroundings, Bateau Bay Beach is a perfect place to while away a lazy afternoon.
8. Bald Rock National Park.
Bald Rock National Park is one of the most popular picnic spots in the country. And it's easy to see why - the views from the top of the rock are absolutely stunning. On a clear day, you can see for miles and miles. But even on a cloudy day, the views are still pretty amazing. And if you're lucky enough to catch a sunset from up here, well, that's just about the best thing ever.
There's plenty of space up at Bald Rock for picnicking, so you can spread out your picnic rug and enjoy a leisurely lunch with your friends or family. There's also a picnic shelter if you need some shelter from the sun or the rain. And when you're done picnicking, there's plenty of hiking trails to explore. So come on up to Bald Rock National Park - it's picnic time!
9. Lake Canobolas, Orange.
Looking for a scenic picnic spot in Orange? Head to Lake Canobolas! The lake is surrounded by a beautiful park, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a picnic lunch. There's plenty of space to spread out a picnic blanket, and you'll be able to take in stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Plus, there's plenty of activities nearby if you're looking for something to do after lunch. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy a quiet picnic or a place to explore with the family, Lake Canobolas is sure to please.
Queensland
- New Farm Park, New Farm.
- Southbank, South Brisbane.
- Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, Brisbane.
- Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Kangaroo Point.
- Toohey Picnic Area, Nathan.
- Goomoolahra Picnic Area, Springbrook.
- Maiala, Mount Glorious.
- Kondalilla Falls, Montville.
- Point Lookout, Stradbroke Island.
- Ravensbourne National Park.
- Cedar Creek Falls, Whitsundays.
- Eungella National Park, Mackay.
- Picnic Point Lookout, Toowoomba.
- Rocks Picnic Area, Karawatha.
- Carlo Sandblow, Rainbow Beach.
South Australia
- Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, Adelaide Hills.
- Botanic Gardens, Adelaide.
- Nepenthe, Adelaide Hills.
- Stradbroke Road Picnic Area, Adelaide.
- Fremont Park, Elizabeth.
- Commodore Reserve, Port Elliot.
- Port Willunga Beach – Old Jetty.
- Rapid Bay Beach, Fleurieu Peninsula.
- Granite Island Recreation Park, Granite Island.
- Belair National Park, Belair.
Tasmania
- Friendly Beach, East Coast.
- Mount Nelson Signal Station, Hobart.
- Cascade Gardens, South Hobart .
- Wellington Park, The Springs.
- Hastings Cave and Thermal Springs, Hastings Caves State Reserve.
- Richmond Riverbank Park, Richmond.
- Russell Falls, Mount Field National Park.
- Pirates Bay Nature Recreation Area, Eaglehawk Neck.
- Geeveston Heritage Park, Geeveston.
- Randall’s Bay Picnic Area, Randall’s Bay.
- Maria Island Grand picnic, Maria Island.
- Boat Harbour Beach, Wynyard.
- Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, Hobart.
Western Australia
- Kings Park, Perth.
- John Oldham Park, Perth.
- Queens Gardens, East Perth.
- South Beach, Freemantle.
- Avalon Park, York.
- John Forrest National Park, Mundaring.
- Eastern Foreshore, Mandurah.
- The Basin, Rottnest Island.
- Serpentine Falls, Serpentine National Park.
- Matilda Bay Reserve, Crawley.
- Houghton Wine, Swan Valley.
- Whiteman Park, Swan Valley.
- Walyunga Lookout, Walyunga National Park.