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8 Smart Tools to Make Your Picnic Planning Perfect

From the latest in camp chairs to an ingenious folding table, your outdoor eating problems solved

Published on: April 22, 2016

Summer is on the horizon and that means lots more opportunities for time outside. One of the best parts of warmer weather is dining alfresco. Bring these must-have picnic products along to make all of your outdoor meals — whether they're eaten around a campfire or on a picnic blanket — fantastic. 


The Melrose by Picnic Time

1. Picnic basket 2.0

The traditional wicker picnic basket is picture-perfect but not exactly practical. Get the best of both worlds with the Melrose by Picnic Time. This luxe picnic basket has an aluminum frame, making it light but sturdy. Inside, a water-resistant interior fits service for four including tumblers, napkins, silverware and plates. It’s the perfect companion for visits to the park, zoo and more.


The Blanket Tote XL

2. Outdoor comfort: Blanket tote 

Any outdoor occasion requires a good blanket to sit on (bonus points if it’s durable enough for the standard kid wear-and-tear). With 38 square feet of sitting space, the Blanket Tote XL easily folds into a carry tote. The top of the blanket is cozy, soft polyester fleece while the underside is water-resistant fabric. Read: This works for both damp or dry dirt.


Picnic Time Portable Folding Table with Aluminum Frame 

3. Bring your own table  

For those who prefer sitting higher off the ground, BYOT (that’s "bring your own table”). This portable and retro-looking picnic table seats four and has an easy-wipe formica top. The legs and seats fold into the table for transportation and storage, making it easy to bring out anytime you need extra seating or table space. 

For even more compact-ability, this other folding picnic table combines two picnic essentials: a table and a cooler. Perfect for a trip to the beach, a weekend camping trip or even just the backyard, it keeps your goodies cool while you lounge in one of two folding stools. The wide wheels and trolley handle make it easy to transport, too.


The Cape Cod Beach Chair

4. Easy outdoor seating 

Don't settle for uncomfortable camp chairs. The Cape Cod Beach Chair provides a relaxing way to enjoy your outdoor time. And it’ll stand up to the elements with the weather-resistant yellow ball wood and stainless steel hardware. 

Looking for an even more relaxing seat? Check out the cacoon chair with options for both one and two occupants (easy snuggling time!). The Bonsai model is particularly good for playtime, giving you time to fire up the grill. 


The Great Coaster 

5. Keep it sand-free 

Kids spill. It's just a fact of life. The Great Coaster helps prevent messes by providing a steady spot for sippy cups, water bottles and other glassware. Made of BPA-free polypropylene, the Great Coaster is dishwasher-safe, reusable and recyclable.


The Koolmax Rolling Cooler

6. Chill out 

The Koolmax Rolling Cooler keeps up to 48 cans of your favorite beverage cool — perfect for large parties! It even has a media player and built-in bottle opener!

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