The best kit for a stylish, sustainable picnic – with no soggy sandwiches
It’s summer, so time to brave the wasps, dodge the drizzle and, fingers crossed, soak up the sunshine with a picnic. But there are alternatives to unsustainable single-use food packaging, plastic cutlery and paper plates.
From compostable plates to enamel cutlery, rechargeable lights to a citronella candle, interiors expert Kate Jacobs has chosen the best kit for a waste-free, British weather-proof picnic.
Cool bag
This breezy cool bag oozes 1950s charm, but has thoughtful, modern features such as a front pocket for cutlery. Its durable, insulated, waterproof lining will keep food and drink fresh, and a shoulder strap makes it easier to lug.
Buy: £50
Hamper
For picnic traditionalists, this grass fibre picnic basket is handwoven by a cooperative in Ghana. A softer material than the usual wicker, it would also make a great storage basket back home.
Buy: £79
Rug
This colourful, graphic-print rug can handle damp ground thanks to its waterproof backing, and rolls up neatly with a grab handle.
Buy: £10
Plates
In a mix of pastel shades, these charming plates are made from bamboo, woodfibre and sugar cane so they’re compostable, post-picnic (and available in other sizes).
Buy: £11 for a pack of eight
Napkins
Made with FSC-approved recycled and recyclable paper, and decorated with a gorgeous wildflower print, a pack of 20 should last for a picnic or three.
Buy: £4.75 for a pack of 20
Flask
This classic 470ml flask is made from durable and practical stainless steel – with a twist-to-pour, no-remove stopper – and is British weather-proof: it will keep cold drinks chilly in a heatwave, and tea hot if the weather turns.
Buy: £23 thermos.co.uk
Tumblers
Made from 100% recycled plastic, these elegant tumblers are large enough for water, wine and everything in between.
Buy: £10 for a set of four
Cutlery
Banish disposable plastic cutlery forever and invest in enamel: this timeless cream and red-edged set (also available in sage green) will last a lifetime of outdoor fine-dining.
Buy: £30 for a set of four
Gazebo
Stay away from harmful rays with this jaunty blue and cream-striped gazebo-style sunshade. It is made from UPF50 sun protection fabric, has an umbrella-style mechanism and a drawstring carry bag.
Buy: £130
Citronella candle
Keeping pests away and emitting a fresh, lemony fragrance, this is an alfresco win-win. Made by a candle company on a farm in North Cornwall, it has a burn time of up to 45 hours, to see you through the summer.
Buy: £14.65
st-eval.com or
£19.94
Outdoor light
Keep the picnic vibes going as the sun sets, with this pleasingly simple dimmable and rechargeable design. Hang from trees or bushes for a magical atmosphere after dark.
Buy: £24.95
Ice brick
This smiley character provides a joyful take on a picnic essential, and will keep food fresh and drinks nicely chilled. Simply keep in the freezer before placing in the bottom of your cool bag (also available in other sizes.)
Buy: £12
