Must-Have Gear for a Picture-Perfect DIY Luxury Picnic
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There’s nothing like spreading out a blanket, unpacking snacks, and just letting the day slow down for a little while. But here’s the secret most people don’t talk about: the best picnics don’t just happen by accident. They feel magical because someone thought ahead about the details that make them comfortable, beautiful, and stress-free.
Over the years of hosting picnics—both for myself and for clients—I’ve learned there are a handful of essentials that completely change the experience. These aren’t fussy, over-the-top extras. They’re the tried-and-true staples that keep things simple but make it feel like something special.
Below, I’ve rounded up my top picnic must-haves (with links so you can grab your own) that I wouldn’t leave the house without.
I have found Hawaiians to be naturally gifted people by way of arts and visual expression. Even still, there is not much to choose from when it comes to craft stores and art supplies around here. The Micheal’s, Hobby Lobby, and Joann Fabrics that you may be used to just are not here. There’s also no IKEA or Dollar Tree so there’s been quite a bit of creative procurement around here in order to get the tools I use for every picnic. For this reason, I have shopped quite a bit second hand as well. If you want a separate post about this process let me know. Anyway, I’ve given links where I can, let’s get into your starter pack.
Tarp & Rug
If there’s any possibility that you will get up from your seat and realize your butt is damp, don’t skip the tarp. It’s less than $10 and it’ll shield everybody from moisture and one layer of critters. The chosen rug(s) will be up to your style and taste, and how often you plan to picnic. The best rugs for this hide spills easily and shake off dirt after each picnic.
Floor Cushions, Pillows & Stools
The bigger the better, nobody complains about too much fluff in a pillow.
Low-Profile Picnic Table
There are many types you could check out to see what best suits your needs. Etsy also has a ton but they are a bit pricier. I built my own and each one was a little different as I learned.
If you’re up for it, a DIY luxury picnic table might make more sense.
Flameless Candles
Since you’ll be outside contending with the elements you may want to forgo candles all together. Or maybe string lights are more the vibe you are going for and your space allows for them. If you’re trying candles, these ones are a little more realistic looking.
Vases & Carafes
Dishes & Utensils
If you’re going re-useable select a style that will easily compliment many picnics. This service-for-four set comes in most commonly used color options. If this is a one-time luxury picnic I’d suggest some disposable bamboo utensils like these ones to get you and your guests thru the meal. They come in a smaller quantity and are already pre-rolled with a disposable napkin. We actually keep this set in our car for the times we decide to randomly eat outdoors without prepping first—we like it outside.
Napkins & Napkin Rings
We use these cloth napkins in my home and so I knew these would hold up to lots of washes for luxury picnics. They come in plenty of colors to suit the aesthetic of your tablescape. Use your napkin rings to fancy them up a little or try some fancy napkin folding.
Table Cloths & Runners
Since these get the messiest, I recommend thrifting a piece of cloth if you’re only picnic-ing once. This will save you money and management time and make you less likely to watch for spills—which will happen.
Should you be in the market for something re-usable I’d try a cling tablecloth like this. If you want it fancier try large amounts of pretty fabrics like cheesecloth, muslin, or organza. I tend to prefer just a runner, so that you can see the pretty woodgrain in my tables. I layer many of these to get a full look. Traditional wipe-clean gingham table cloth here.
Extra Extras for Your Luxury Picnic
It’s easy to get carried away envisioning all the tiny details and touches you can add to your luxury picnic to make it more insta-worthy. You can add sentimental bits and bobs til the cows come home, just keep in mind that you’ll need to carry all of the items back and forth to your location. Here are a few small ideas I have found to be most popular and easy enough to pack:
- Name place cards
- Candy dishes for matches or other small items
- Journal and writing/drawing utensils
- Water color or paint set
- Colored pencils (or markers) and adult coloring book
- Instant camera
- Boho shade umbrella
- Outdoor board games
- Welcome sign or greeting
- Thank you gift or favor
At the end of the day, a picnic is about more than food on a blanket—it’s about slowing down and enjoying the people (or the peacefulness) around you. Having these essentials on hand keeps things easy so you can focus on the good part: making memories. The right essentials don’t just make this picnic easier—they make it more likely you’ll picnic again and again.
And if you’re dreaming of a luxury-style picnic but don’t want to track down all the details yourself, that’s exactly what I love to do. You can book a full setup with me here and show up to find everything styled, cozy, and ready for you.
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