With this glorious weather we've been having in the UK, there's no better time than now to plan the perfect picnic!
It’s time to make the most of al fresco dining whilst we can. Whether you’re in the garden, in a local park or at the beach (maintaining social distance rules at all times of course), we can finally spend more time outside again.
And Brits have planned to do just that, with John Lewis & Partners reporting that customers have been going crazy for picnicware - sales are up 72% compared to last week.
The star purchase? Sales of this cute wheely cooler bag that will keep your refreshments cool are up an impressive 455%. Whilst the more traditional hampers and rugs have also seen sales rise by 106% compared to last week.
SHOP NOW: Fusion Wheeling Picnic Cooler Bag, £45, John Lewis & Partners
Ice lolly moulds are also proving popular for people making the most of their gardens and keeping kids entertained.
SHOP NOW: Zoku Flamingo 4 Ice Lolly Mould, Pink, £12.99, John Lewis & Partners
What else do you need for a perfect picnic?
If you usually shove a mish-mash of bowls, plates and cups into multiple plastic bags when heading out on a picnic, now is the time to invest in great picnic ware.
First on your list should be a beautiful traditional wicker picnic hamper. They come in all different sizes, so consider if you need a two, four, or six-person hamper. The prices also really differ depending on where you are purchasing from. Make sure you read the full product description so you know exactly what comes with your hamper.
- Picnic hamper
- Large blanket (preferably one with a water-resistant backing)
- Cool box or cool bag
- Reusable or eco-friendly plates, cups and cutlery
- A bottle opener - depending on your beverage of choice
- Suncream
- A bag for rubbish
Say no to single-use plastics with a set of reusable or eco-friendly plates, cutlery and glasses. There are so many fabulous designs available in many patterns and colourways, it would be impossible not to find a set you liked.
Stylish picnic buys: our top picks
Four Person Thurlestone Chill Hamper, £62.10 (was £69), Joules
This basket hamper is complete with wood effect handled cutlery, acrylic wine glasses, picnic blanket, napkins, a corkscrew and a chiller bag. This hamper also comes in a larger six person version.
VIEW NOW: Four Person Thurlestone Chill Hamper, £62.10 (was £69), Joules
Gardenia Waterproof Picnic Rug, £25, Dunelm
The stripe design rug is made from hardwearing polyester with a waterproof PEVA backing to keep you comfortable on damp grass. It comes with a detachable shoulder strap.
VIEW NOW: Gardenia Waterproof Picnic Rug, £25, Dunelm
Stacking Plastic Picnic Tumblers, £12 for set of 4, John Lewis & Partners
These colourful set of clear plastic glasses can be stacked to save space. Having different coloured glasses is great, you won't mix up your drinks.
VIEW NOW: Stacking Plastic Picnic Tumblers, £12 for set of 4, John Lewis & Partners
Wheeling Picnic Cooler Bag, £45, John Lewis & Partners
Keep food and drink fresh for longer with this cooler bag. Perfect for picnics and camping trips, it’s sturdy and easy to pull along on its two wheels. It has a 30-litre capacity and you can secure your picnic rug or any extra items on top using the toggle.
VIEW NOW: Wheeling Picnic Cooler Bag, £45, John Lewis & Partners
Les Jardins de la Comtesse Salad Servers, £11, Amara
Printed with a charming Balinese jungle design, they will add even more colour to summer salads. Made from durable melamine, they are shock and crack resistant.
VIEW NOW: Les Jardins de la Comtesse Salad Servers, £11, Amara
LEON Bamboo Picnic Bowls, Set of 4, £18, John Lewis & Partners
Bring contemporary colour and patterning to your picnic with this set of four bowls.
VIEW NOW: LEON Bamboo Picnic Bowls, Set of 4, £18, John Lewis & Partners
Pitcher Jug, £8, Dunelm
Perfect to mix up a jug of Pimm's. Matching tumbler glasses are available.
VIEW NOW: Pitcher Jug, £8, Dunelm
Wine Glass & Drink Holder Picnic Sticks, £15 for a set of 4, John Lewis & Partners
What a simple yet genius product! Perfect for picnics, simply insert these wine glass or drink holders into the ground to keep your tipple safe from spillages and leave your hands free for sandwiches and snacks.
VIEW NOW: Wine Glass & Drink Holder Picnic Sticks, £15 for a set of 4, John Lewis & Partners
Water bottle, 750ml, £31.50 (was £45), S'well
S'well bottles feature Therma-S’well(R) Technology with triple-layered, vacuum-insulated construction designed to keep beverages colder or hotter, longer than all the rest. This pretty water bottle holds a whole bottle of wine and will keep it cold for 54 hours!
VIEW NOW: Water bottle, 750ml, £31.50 (was £45), S'well
Insulated Bottle Carrier, £22.50 (was £25), Joules
With plenty of space for two wine bottles and an attractive hessian style base, this stylish insulated bottle carrier is the perfect picnic companion
VIEW NOW: Insulated Bottle Carrier, £22.50 (was £25), Joules
Marina Plastic Wine Glass, £2.50, Dunelm
Perfect for indoor and outdoor dining.
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