A Folding “Adventure Wagon”—and 18 Other Ways to Picnic Like a Wes Anderson Character
Whether you’re camping in style, bringing a spread to the park, or hosting a backyard cookout, our picks are sure to set the scene.
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With summer knocking at the door and warmer weather in full swing, the outdoor season is finally coming into focus. Picture grilled veggies, chilled rosé, and a light breeze atop your favorite throw at the beach or park. What better way to lean into the sunshine than a picnic or barbecue with good company? Whether you’re kicking back one afternoon—or getting away for an entire weekend—check out these open-air essentials.
Heading out with drinks and snacks to share? Pack those frosty goods in a puffy cooler. It's insulated to keep your drinks, snacks and other treats cool and cushioned. Everything will be chill :-)
A soft foam lining pads this reversible blanket that rolls and carries from the beach to the park and beyond. A water-resistant backing keeps you comfortable when things get dewy.
Free up your hands for all the other stuff you have to lug to the beach. We designed this cooler to be tall enough for a bottle of wine, large enough for a full picnic, and comfortable enough to haul to the perfect spot. There’s an insulated, waterproof lining, and adjustable padded straps.
The real deal. You know what you’re about. You come into the wilderness prepared—with flavor and class. You’re the friend in the group who makes sure to bring tasty beverages and keeps them cold. You’re the one with a plan for cooking and plating the campfire dinner.
An insulated lining keeps your picnic goodies cool in this charming wicker basket topped with a wood lid that doubles as a cutting board.
Need some cover from sun or rain? The waterproof, seam-sealed REI Co-op x West Elm Outward Day Shelter keeps your dining or lounge area covered multiple ways—in the backyard or backcountry.
Berry nice. Berries and grapes have a happy new home in this clever container. The insert doubles as a colander, so you can rinse your fruit, then pop on the lid for snacking later. Plus, did we mention it’ll help your fruit last even longer? But of course. These just so happen to be stackable, too.
Le tote. Be the envy of all the produce mavens at your local farmer’s market with this hand-woven palm leaf basket. The flat bottom keeps the bag standing on its own while you carefully select the best peaches and the double-woven top edge gives it an extra sturdy finish.
Protect your picnics. Nothing spoils a great picnic or dinner outdoors faster than bugs and gnats. We collaborated with Dot and Army to design these lightweight net food covers, exclusive for us. We wanted something easy to fold up and carry with us, but also pretty to keep our picnics picturesque.
Uncompromising attention to both detail and fit takes Onia’s bags to the next level. Onia means “sailboat” in Hebrew, and we think that’s a perfect name for one of our original partners.
Clean, clear glass with a sturdy stem and bottom make up this contemporary picnic glass that is perfect for outdoor settings.
Ready for adventure, this wipe-clean, nylon-backed blanket has a functional roll-up design and convenient carrying handle. Plaids are woven in our American mills.
Bright and light, designer Aaron Probyn’s sleek, modern update of melamine plates brings unbreakable style to outdoor dining. Rimmed plates make carrying food even easier (no spills!). In summery hues, they’re fun to mix and match anywhere from picnic to pool to dinner party.
A set of three reusable bags, perfectly proportioned for bottles of wine, or olive oil, or sparkling water, or kombucha... the list goes on! Great for picnics, gift giving, or trips to the store. Each bag folds into its own flat pouch, with a keychain loop so it'll never slip away.
Gear for getting outside and having a good time. Tupelo’s mission is simple: make awesome gear that helps people get outside in the first place, and enjoy it while they’re out there.
Our lunches are stacking up to the competition like never before. Why pack a tiffin? Well, it’ll keep your sandwiches in their tastiest, unsquished form. You won’t have to buy any more single-use paper or plastic lunch baggies or containers.
Wherever you go. ...Whatever you do, this insulated cooler tote will be right here keeping your drinks and snacks cool-as-can-be. It’s got a spacious compartment that’s big enough to carry—count ‘em—24 soda cans, and it’s lined with water-resistant PVC that’ll stop leaks right in their tracks.
Brown-bagging. Bring your own bottle in style with Uashmama’s light-as-air wine bag. Made in Italy from water- and stain-resistant paper, each bag is stretched and tanned to look just like leather.
We listened to your feedback and added 5 exterior pockets to our popular coolers so it's easier to organize all your picnic accessories. New flip-top lid stays open when you're looking for a snack inside. Holds 12 to 15 12 oz. cans with ice.
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Duncan Nielsen
News Editor
Duncan Nielsen is Dwell’s design news editor. His coverage includes everything from Frank Lloyd Wright–inspired sneakers to ADU legislation. Share tips or ideas at duncan at dwell dot com.
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