Shopping·8 min read

13 Picnic Accessories to See You Through Summertime

Picnic accessories
Design: theSkimm | Photos: Caraa, Great Jones, Amazon
August 3, 2023

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In the height of summer, there’s no place we’d rather be than outdoors. Whether you’re planning a beach get-together or weekend staycation in your backyard, we’re here to plead the case for the picnic with a few of our favorite picnic accessories. From wooden folding tables you can spruce up to portable lightweight tents you can nap in, these things will help you enjoy the great outdoors (and a few snacks) in style. 

Market Bag
Caraa

A tote that’ll hold all your charcuterie…

Finally, we found a bag sturdy, stylish, and sustainable enough to proudly display at the picnic. This one has space for your snacks, wine, and flowers, thanks to its insulated pockets, bottle slots, and smart ties. Plus, it comes in three neutral colors, so you can match it with your summer outfit. ($128, Caraa

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Tennis bag
Caraa

And a convertible bag that has space for your rackets…

If you’re planning on pitching your picnic next to the tennis courts, this is the bag for you. It has plenty of room for your blanket, snacks, and drinks — and a dedicated pocket for two rackets and tennis balls. Sling it over one shoulder and wear it as a cute tote, or wear it as a backpack for more comfort. That’s what we call bringing the party. ($268, Caraa)

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Portable campfire
Solostove

A portable campfire you can fit in your bag…

If you’re a sucker for s’mores, this smoke-free, non-toxic, clean-burning stove is the perfect addition to your next outing. It has a concrete and bamboo design that’s stylish and sturdy, and it comes with easy-to-use gel canisters that give you up to three hours of cozy fun. ($59.99, Solo Stove)

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Wooden table
WoodenCamptables via Etsy

A low-maintenance table perfect for outdoor parties…

Put your party planning to the test with an elevated picnic gathering. The guest of honor? This wooden folding table that sits low to the floor. It can fit up to eight people and has handles for easy transportation. Deck it out with a classic picnic tablecloth, some dried flowers, and tapered candles to really wow. ($135+, Woodencamptables via Etsy)

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Tiny table
Uncommon Goods

And a table that’s better for two…

Perfect for those dedicated to their vino. This table’s got four holes meant to hold a bottle of wine, two glasses, and a bowl of whatever it is you’re in the mood to munch on. The top folds flat and locks into place and has a fiberglass spike so you can plant it firmly into the ground. Clink, clink. ($60, Uncommon Goods)

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picnic blanket
Great Jones

A cute picnic blanket you’ll wanna spread out on…

What’s big, bright, and has tinned fish all over? This must-have blanket from Great Jones. Designed in collaboration with a Brooklyn-based, woman-owned company, it’s the perfect size to gather with a couple friends on the next sunny day. Snag it in either yellow or green and lounge on. ($145, Great Jones)

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Pop up tent
Target

And an easy pop-up tent to protect you from the elements…

When the sun gets to be a little too much, or the rain makes a surprise appearance, this cute little tent has got your back. It’s got an SPF 50+ UV rating, sets up in seconds, and can fit up to four people comfortably. Pro tip: Bring a couple throw pillows and portable misting fans as the finishing touches to your new oasis. ($66.99, Target)

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Wine chiller
Amazon

A wine chiller that’s easy to carry around…

This good-looking container by S’well will keep your favorite wine cool without any worries about condensation, thanks to its vacuum insulation and copper layer. If you really love it, you can even get an ice bucket, carafe, and wine glasses to match. One super-chic picnic spread, coming right up. ($40, Amazon)

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Visor hat
Antrhopologie

An open-top visor you can roll up after using…

When the sun is out and the streets are hot, the last thing you want to deal with is hair sticking to your face. Enter this chic visor. It’s got an open top so you can wear your hair in a bun or ponytail at the same time, perfect for summer. ($36, Anthropologie)

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Bug spray
Kinfield

A clean bug spray that’ll keep the mosquitoes away…

With notes of citrus and vanilla, this repellent is vegan and DEET-free. It has citronella to keep mosquitoes at bay and lauric acid to soothe your skin. Clove and lemongrass will have you saying buh-bye to that typical bug spray stench. And you can recycle the packaging when you’re done. Spray, spray bugs away. ($22, Kinfield)

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Wines
Hall

A few of our favorite wines to sip on…

Whether you’re looking for a classic sauvignon blanc to cool you off, a light zinfandel to pair with your charcuterie, or an easy canned rosé to share with the group, snag your next refresher from one of these famed wineries and save up to $25 with code “TheSkimm.” Cheers to that. 

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Porter utensils
W&P

A portable utensil set made of sustainable materials…

Crafted of earth-friendly materials, this set comes with a portable insulated tumbler, an airtight bowl, and compact utensil set — perfect for picnics. The tumbler is designed to keep liquids hot for 12 hours and cold for 24, and the bowl is designed to be durable and leak-proof, ideal for salads or soups. Kicking single-use plastics to the curb = the gift that keeps on giving. ($68, W&P)

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