readers' choice awards

Scary Mommy Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 Best Elevated Picnic Gear Brands

Making the case for picnic-ing in style, no matter the occasion.

by Team Scary Mommy
Scary Mommy 2025 Readers' Choice Awards

There isn’t much better in life than al fresco dining. It can be quiet and peaceful (with or without kids) and it can be so relaxing to sit under the trees eating a meal. Of course, there’s the flip side of that: dirty hands, ants, sticky drinks, and on and on. These brands make the case for picnic-ing in style, no matter the occasion.

Scary Mommy’s readers have spoken! Congratulations to our top Elevated Picnic Gear Brands!

1. Rumpl

What Scary Mommy readers love about Rumpl:

  • Spills and dirt shake right off, it’s totally machine-washable and packs down small enough to live in my car trunk all summer.
  • Gorgeous artist-designed prints made from eco-friendly recycled materials—they’re so cute and comfy that everyone in the family wants their own!
  • From park picnics to chilly kids' soccer games, it’s my ultimate go-anywhere blanket that easily handles sand, grass, and chaotic outdoor adventures.

2. Picnic Time

What Scary Mommy readers love about Picnic Time:

  • They turn a simple outdoor lunch into a full-blown event, from classic woven baskets and cozy blankets to backpack coolers for park outings.
  • Their "Built to Last" lifetime warranty is legit—when we lost our picnic flatware, customer service shipped us free replacements with zero hassle.
  • Thoughtfully designed down to the smallest detail, plus super neat options like Disney-themed gear that my kids are totally obsessed with.

3. Hydro Flask

What Scary Mommy readers love about Hydro Flask:

  • Keeps hot drinks toasty all winter and cold bevies icy all summer—an absolute year-round essential for park dates and my kids’ games.
  • LOVE the stand-up design and clean, minimalist look. Makes packing picnic lunches a breeze and keeps our snacks chilled for up to four hours.
  • It goes everywhere with us! Super-durable and available in fun colors that easily survive being tossed and treated roughly, a bonus for my family.

5. Yeti

Photos Courtesy of Business & Pleasure Co., Hydro Flask, Nomadix, Rumpl, YETI