Picnic in Style & With Ease With A Go Anywhere Picnic Backpack
Hello there! If you’re hunting for the best picnic backpack in 2023, you’ve come to the right place. My passion for picnics started in childhood, sparked by a Vonshef Picnic Backpack that my parents received as a gift. That backpack travelled with us all over the UK – on camping trips, beach days, and hikes – until it fell apart!
My mum was a big fan of this portable picnic bag. It was easy to carry and had all the essentials she usually packed in our picnic hamper. My dad was equally thrilled with the Vonshef picnic set. No more backaches from lugging an insulated cool box up a hill! (This was back in the 70s, long before folding trolleys.)
Fast forward to today, and I’ve taken my parents’ love for convenient outdoor dining to the next level. I’ve tested and reviewed countless picnic backpacks and am here to share my top picks with you. I also used the knowledge to give you a comprehensive buyer’s guide so you can find the perfect Picnic Rucksack.
Below, you’ll find my list of bestselling picnic backpacks so you can click, buy and get outdoors. Read on further for my in-depth reviews of my five favourite picnic rucksacks on the market in 2023. These include 2-person to four and six-person picnic bags. Each name is a link that will take you straight to the buying page, making your shopping experience as smooth as possible.
So, if you’re ready to revolutionise your picnic experience, just like my mum did all those years ago, keep reading!
- OVERSIZED INSULATED LEAKPROOF STORAGE COMPARTMENTS: This cooler backpack owns 3 compartments - Biggest central compartment size (L:12.2"xD:12"xW:7.3“）around 20L, better for storing drinks and with ice cubes or packs. Top pocket size:(L:12.2"xD:4.3"xW:7.3") around 6.5L, not 100% leakproof, better for storing dry foods with plastic ice pack. Side wine holder is good for a large bottle. This is an impressed large picnic cooler good for any party or concert.
- ERGONOMICS & COMFORTABLE : For any large size backpack cooler /picnic backpack, wearing on back should be comfortable. Try this one! Ergonormic design make you feel it easy when you carry heavy load with picnic set for long trip,hiking,and camping . Absolutely proudly to be wedding gift baskets for young couples!
- FAUX LEATHER ACCENTS: Picnic in style and comfort with the VonShef picnic backpack, finished with a green woven design and padded straps for a premium picnicking experience.
- PICNIC SET FOR 4: Your picnic rucksack contains all the picnic accessories you need, including four plates with stainless steel cutlery, four wine glasses, four cotton napkins, and a blanket. The recipe for a perfect picnic!
- STYLISH & HANDSFREE - Looks fashional and reliably holds all your essential items for an outdoor picnic party - all while freeing up both of your hands and more comfortable than regular picnic basket.
- HIGH QUALITY & DURABLE - Made of high quality Nylon garment fabric with PU back coating(stronger and much better than polyester,high strength, high wear resistance,good resistance to deformation,comfortable,anti-water material),non-fraying stitching, and strong zippers means you’ll have a bag that lasts for years.
- STYLISH PICNIC SET - Whether you’re planning a day out in the countryside, visiting a park or heading to the beach, the GEEZY Picnic Backpack is perfect for four. The modern beige colour is undeniably stylish. Compact and practical, the backpack features a PEVA insulated cooler compartment to keep food chilled for longer – essential on hot summer days.
- THE PICNIC ESSENTIALS - Everything you need for the perfect picnic for 4! Includes 4 stainless steel knives, forks and spoons, 4 plastic dinner plates, 4 plastic wine glasses and 4 cotton napkins. Also includes one set of salt and pepper shakers to keep your food seasoned, and a bottle opener. The 120 x 135 cm /47" x 53"/ approx. soft fleece blanket with waterproof PEVA backing is easy to store on the side of the backpack using the built in blanket holder. At the other side.
- PICNIC WITH FAMILY & FRIENDS: Take your picnics to new heights with the VonShef 4 person picnic backpack, perfect for alfresco dining with loved ones at the beach, park, or mid-hike.
- ALL YOU NEED: Your picnic rucksack contains all the essentials, including 4 9" dinner plates, 4 stainless steel cutlery sets, 4 napkins, and 4 plastic tumblers. Each component a its secure spot, preventing any unwanted rattling and spillages.
- PREMIUM MATERIALS: The exterior of the Cooler Bag is constructed out of high-density, water-resistant, dirt-proof 600D Oxford fabric making it waterproof and easy to clean. The interior lining is made of food-grade PEVA and padded with 8mm EPE foam for great thermal resistance.
- LARGE CAPACITY: The maximum capacity of the Lunch Bag is 24L and its roomy interior can hold up to 30 cans or a combination of beverages and foods. Whether you're planning an outdoor picnic for the family, packing lunch and snacks for the kids, or packing cold drinks for an outdoor event, lunch bags are a great choice.
- CONVERTIBLE & VERSATILE – Leoh’s cool bag backpack has an effective Insulation Layer, it’s a perfect for beach, camping, work, picnic, trips, outdoors, etc. Its elegant and unisex design is suitable for every member of the family. 1 bag fits all your needs!
- MULTIPLE POCKETS: 1x main insulated cooler compartment; 1x top insulated zipper compartment for fruits / snacks; 1x front zipper pocket for snacks, wallet or iPad; 2x side pockets for 2 bottles or picnic blanket; 1 mesh pocket on the strap for quick access.
If you are in a hurry and want to find out the best luxury picnic basket, I recommend the Sunflora Picnic Backpack for four people.
My detailed Buyers Guide and Best Picnic Backpack FAQs can be found after the reviews. The main things I looked at when reviewing picnic sets to recommend these five amazing portable picnic sets were:
- Contents of the backpack (Plates, Cups etc.)
- Weight & Height
- Size (2, 4 or 6 people)
- Construction (Material, Zippers, Strapping, Insulated Rucksack))
- Price
Sunflora Picnic Backpack for 4 Person (choice of colours) Review
If you’re planning a picnic, camping trip, or beach day, the Sunflora Backpack is a must-have. I’ve personally used this four-person picnic backpack in both Blue and Buff Grey, and it’s not only practical but also a stylish accessory for any outdoor occasion.
The Sunflora Backpack is made from high-quality Cationic fabric with PU decorating, which is not only comfortable but also water-resistant. The stitching doesn’t fray, and the zippers are incredibly durable. I’ve been using mine for years, and it’s still going strong.
One of my favourite features is the large insulated bag area. It’s the size of the entire backpack, so you can pack any meal you want. Plus, it comes with a detachable waterproof pouch that’s perfect for ice or cold beer, and it won’t wet the rest of the backpack.
The backpack also comes with a matching blanket that has a waterproof PEVA backing, so you and your belongings stay dry, even on damp ground. When you’re not using it, you can roll up the picnic blanket and attach it neatly to the side of the backpack with the provided plastic buckles.
However, it’s not all sunshine and picnics. The cutlery doesn’t quite match the picture (the handles feel a bit cheap), and it only fits one wine or drinks bottle. I also think it could do with a set of cups for coffee.
Here’s what you’ll find inside the Sunflora Picnic Backpack:
- 4 Stainless steel forks/knives/spoons with polypropylene handles
- 4 High-quality plastic wine glasses
- 4 Polypropylene dinner plates and 4 cotton napkins
- 2 Salt/pepper shakers
- 1 Stainless steel cheese/butter knife with a Sapele wood handle
- 1 Corkscrew wine and beer bottle opener with a Sapele wood handle
- 1 Bamboo chopping board
- 1 Bottle holder
- 1 Detachable picnic blanket
The backpack measures 40 x 32 x 20cm, and the blanket opens up to 147 x 127cm. Despite a few minor drawbacks, I’ve found the Sunflora Picnic Backpack to be a reliable and stylish choice for all my outdoor dining adventures.
POSITIVES
- Large insulated bag area
- Easy to clean
- Includes Chopping Board/ Bottle Opener
- The backpack is very well made (strong fabric/zippers)
- Choice of colours
NEGATIVES
- Cutlery isn’t like the picture (cheap handles)
- Only fits one wine/ drinks bottle.
- Could do with a set of cups for coffee etc
VonShef 4-Person Picnic Backpack – Grey Picnic Bag Review
As someone who’s been on countless picnics, I can confidently say that the VonShef 4 person picnic backpack has taken my outdoor dining experiences to a whole new level. This backpack, perfect for a day at the beach, a park visit, or even a mid-hike meal, has become my go-to for all alfresco dining occasions.
The VonShef backpack is made from durable polyester and comes in a stylish grey colour. It’s lightweight, weighing just 3.5 kilograms, and its dimensions (42 x 33 x 17 centimetres) make it easy to carry around. But what I love most about it are the faux leather accents and the water-resistant layer – it’s not just practical, but also a stylish accessory.
This picnic rucksack is packed with all the essentials. It includes 4 dining sets with plates and cutlery, 4 cotton napkins, and even 4 wine glasses for a touch of luxury. The corkscrew/bottle opener has come in handy more times than I can count!
One of the standout features of the VonShef backpack is the spacious insulated cooler section. It’s perfect for keeping your food and drinks chilled, making your picnic experience even more enjoyable. The large blanket that comes with the backpack is a great addition, allowing you to settle down comfortably for your meal.
But the VonShef backpack isn’t just about functionality. It’s also about the promise of quality. All VonShef products come with a minimum 2-year warranty, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your purchase.
Here’s what you’ll find inside the VonShef Picnic Backpack:
- 4 BPA-free plates
- 4 Stainless steel cutlery sets
- 4 Plastic wine glasses
- 4 Cotton napkins
- 1 Chopping board
- 1 Set of salt and pepper shakers
- 1 Cheese/butter knife
- 1 Corkscrew/bottle opener
In terms of customer ratings, the VonShef backpack scores highly on sturdiness, value for money, comfort, and being lightweight.
In conclusion, the VonShef Picnic Backpack is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves outdoor dining. It’s practical, stylish, and comes with everything you need for a perfect picnic. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed using it, and I’m sure you will too!
POSITIVES
- Large Storage: The backpack has a large storage capacity, fitting enough food and drinks for a family of four for an entire day.
- Excellent Thermal Seal: The backpack has an excellent thermal lining that keeps items cold for a long time, even in high temperatures.
- Quality of Items: The cutlery, plates, and napkins provided are of good quality and are expected to last a long time.
- Comfortable to Carry: Despite its size, the backpack is comfortable to carry, even for extended periods.
NEGATIVES
- Weight When Fully Loaded: When the backpack is fully loaded, it can get quite heavy, which may not be ideal for long hikes.
- Quality of Wine Glasses: The wine glasses provided are made of cheap hard plastic and may not last long.
- Price: Some customers found the backpack to be a bit expensive.
Greenfield Super Deluxe Two-Person Picnic Backpack Review
The Greenfield Super Deluxe Picnic Backpack Hamper is designed to provide a complete picnic experience for two. It comes packed with all the essential accessories you need for a perfect picnic.
The backpack offers ample space to pack a full picnic, drinks, and even dessert. It features an insulated food holder, two food containers, and separate insulated bottle holders to keep your picnic items in place as you walk. The insulated compartment uses IceTech+ technology, which includes four layers of premium materials to prevent heat penetration, ensuring your food and drinks stay cool or warm for 5-7 hours.
However, it’s not without its drawbacks. My husband found the bag to be heavy, especially considering it’s designed for only two people. The lack of padding in the straps made it uncomfortable to carry, and he also mentioned that the bag felt lumpy due to the way items were packed inside.
I had issues with the packing as well – the salt and pepper shaker kept coming loose, and the forks scratched the plates during transport. The blanket, which is included in the deluxe version, is a standard feature in many other picnic backpacks that cost half as much.
The backpack is made from high-quality 600D Polyester, which is supposed to be both durable and lightweight. However, my husband disagreed with this claim, stating that the stitching wasn’t great.
Here’s what you’ll find inside the Greenfield Super Deluxe Picnic Backpack:
- 2 Polycarbonate Wine Glasses
- 2 Stainless Steel Insulated Mugs
- 1 Stainless Steel Flask
- 2 Melamine Plates
- 2 Sets of Stainless Steel Cutlery (2 Spoons, 2 Forks, 2 Knives)
- 2 Food Storage Boxes
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Cutting Knife
- 1 Waiter’s Friend (corkscrew)
- 1 Bottle Stopper
- 1 Salt and Pepper Shaker
- 1 Tidy-Up Bag
- 2 Mulberry Red and White Check Napkins
- 1 Mulberry Red and White Check Tablecloth
The backpack comes in a choice of Forest Green, Mulberry Red, or Navy Blue and measures 42cm x 32cm x 21cm.
Despite a few drawbacks, the Greenfield Super Deluxe Picnic Backpack Hamper for Two offers a comprehensive picnic solution. However, potential buyers should be aware of its weight and packing issues.
POSITIVES
- Super Deluxe has a picnic blanket, bolt stop, chopping board, tidy bag & storage box.
- Stainless steel Thermos flask & mugs
- Both bottle holders are insulated
- Choice of three colours
NEGATIVES
- 3.5kg – Heavy for a 2-person rucksack
- Wine glasses edges are sharp
- Plates in ours scratched as pressed against forks when the bag closed.
Greenfield Deluxe Picnic Backpack for Four (Forest Green) Review
The Greenfield Super Deluxe Picnic Backpack Hamper is a comprehensive solution for a picnic for up to four people. It’s made from high-quality 600D Polyester, which makes it durable, although it can be a bit heavy when filled with food. This backpack is perfect for a day out at the beach, but it might not be the best choice for a hiking trip.
The backpack has plenty of space to pack a full picnic, drinks, and even dessert. It features an insulated food holder, two food containers, and separate insulated bottle holders to keep your picnic items in place as you walk. The insulated compartment uses IceTech+ technology, which includes four layers of premium materials to prevent heat penetration, ensuring your food and drinks stay cool or warm for 5-7 hours.
However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The backpack can be quite heavy when full, which makes it unsuitable for hiking. The plates, cutlery, and glasses provided are of lower quality considering the price of the backpack.
Here’s what you’ll find inside the Greenfield Super Deluxe Picnic Backpack:
- 4 Melamine Plates
- 4 Sets of Stainless Steel Cutlery (4 Spoons, 4 Forks, 4 Knives)
- 2 Plastic Food Storage Containers
- 1 Wooden Cutting Board
- 1 Cutting Knife
- 1 Salt and Pepper Shaker
- 1 Tidy-Up Bag
- 4 Forest Green and White Check Napkins
- 1 Forest Green and White Check Tablecloth
- 4 Polycarbonate Wine Glasses
- 1 Waiter’s Friend
- 1 Bottle Stopper
- 4 Stainless Steel Insulated Mugs
- 1 Stainless Steel Flask
- 1 Picnic Blanket
The backpack comes in a Forest Green color and is a bit on the expensive side compared to other models on the market. Despite a few drawbacks, the Greenfield Super Deluxe Picnic Backpack Hamper for Four offers a comprehensive picnic solution. However, potential buyers should be aware of its weight and the quality of the included items.
POSITIVES
- Stainless steel flask & cups
- 2 Wine/drink holders(insulated)
- Blanket included on the deluxe model
NEGATIVES
- Cheap plates, cutlery, and glasses for the price
- Very heavy when full – you wouldn’t hike with it
- Most expensive reviewed – perhaps better on the market for less money
Best Picnic Backpack Buyers Guide
When choosing the top five picnic backpacks to review, I focused on five key elements that make a picnic backpack great. These are:
- Contents of the backpack – What picnic accessories are included, and are they of good quality?
- Weight & Height – Is the backpack compact and light enough to take on a hike or to the beach?
- Size – Is it suitable for 2, 4, or 6 people?
- Construction – Is the backpack made of durable materials? Will the zippers last? Are the straps padded for comfort?
- Price – Does the backpack offer good value for money based on the above factors?
Contents of the Picnic Backpack
The perfect picnic backpack for me includes all the essentials I need for a picnic and maybe a few added extras. I don’t want my husband to be weighed down with unnecessary items during a hike. So, every backpack must include the following:
- Plates – 7″ or larger (high-quality non-BPA plastic is fine and lightweight)
- Cups/Glasses (again, quality plastic or stainless steel is fine)
- Cutlery (I prefer metal as plastic doesn’t cut well)
- Bottle opener
- Knife
- Blanket (preferably with waterproof backing)
For those added extras (especially if the backpack will be used for beach trips and car journeys), consider:
- Salt & Pepper Shakers
- Thermos Flask or Hydro Flask
- Chopping Board
- Mugs (must come with some form of a wine glass)
- Napkins
- Tablecloth
- Bottle Stopper
- Food boxes
- Separate ice bag
Weight & Height of Backpack
Buying a backpack is mainly for easy transportation, so it shouldn’t be heavy or cumbersome. Even the best packs don’t have the same quality of shoulder strapping as a true hiking rucksack, so it’s important that the backpack isn’t too heavy when full of picnic food.
I think 3KG empty is the maximum weight a picnic backpack should be (and that’s for a 4-person one). Remember, you could carry up to 5kg of food and drink, so consider whether all those added extras are essential to your picnic experience.
In terms of height, bigger isn’t necessarily better. You want an insulated compartment to fit enough food for your walk or trip. However, the larger the picnic backpack, the heavier it will be!
What Size Picnic Bag Do You Need? – (2/4/6 Person)
Consider who will be using the backpack. Are you a retired couple who needs a pack for yourselves, or are you a young couple planning on expanding the family soon? If it’s a gift, consider carefully who you are buying the pack for, as these are built to last many years. We bought a four-person pack to fit the family before the little people came because we knew we would need more settings soon.
We have only been able to review two and four-person picnic backpacks because there are currently no six-person backpacks on the market. If you come across one, please let me know in the comments, and I will review it.
Picnic Rucksack Material & Construction
Our backpack gets a lot of use on our picnics, far more so than our luxury picnic baskets which only come out for finer dining. Our backpack has been all over the Cairngorms, dragged about Spain & France and is still going strong after four years (we have added new plates & cups in that time to refresh the pack).
I recommend all our picnic backpacks because they excel in five key areas of construction:
- Great fabric is used (waterproof, easy clean & strong)
- Strong zippers (because when you cram it full, zippers can break)
- Well-insulated food compartment or two (we like the ICE+ ones)
- Strapping (well-padded and strong)
- Easy to clean all parts of the picnic pack
It’s important to note that none of the insulated compartments will work as well as a cooler box because they don’t have vacuum sealing. However, most good ones will keep your food warm or cool for a long time, far longer than a normal rucksack. If you need more space for food etc., you should consider an insulated backpack instead. However, they don’t come with any accessories for eating.
Price – Is your Picnic Backpack value for money?
Value for money is so important to us as a family. All our picnicware will be well used and must be robust, easy to use and clean, and last over time. So we base our value for money on this fact.
That said, I also think it’s important what items you get in the pack. We demand all the essentials are in there, plus I always like a lightweight chopping board, ice bag, flask & mugs, and napkins in anything we pick.
Best Picnic Backpack FAQs
Whats the difference between a Picnic Basket and a Picnic Basket?
Picnic Baskets are the traditional choice for outdoor dining, made for carrying a short distance from the car or home.
Picnic Backpacks are the modern way to getabout and eat out, easier to carry, more robust and waterproof too. And they free up your hands to carry extra stuff like a beach tent, or picnic seating with you!
You have to look at when you are more likely to be going to eat out – if its on a hike then a backpack is the way to go.
If your all about a drive out and meal in a nice setting, lazy afternoons and relaxation then get a Picnic Basket. You can really elevate the picnic experience by dining from a foldable picnic table and bring some nice picnic chairs as well.
Whats the easiest way to clean my Picnic Backpack?
Always check the labels from the manufacture before cleaning. Personally I wipe mine out with my favourite lemon non bleach cleaning spray from Scentsy. When its got filthy on the outside i close up the insulated compartment to protect it and machine wash on 40 deg and NO SPIN!
The blanket and Napkins etc I machine wash as well and avoid the spin to keep them in great condition.
Whats the difference between an Insulated Backpack and a Picnic Backpack?
Insulated Rucksacks are bags that just have one or two large, well insulated compartments (they are better known as cool bag rucksacks). They are designed for people who might need a work bag which can stay waterproof and keep lunch cool. They don’t have any Picnicware inside them but may have buckles to carry a Picnic Blanket, but are not supplied with them.
Picnic Backpacks come with an insulated compartment (maybe not as large or good as the insulated rucksack) and all the essentials you need to dine out on the move. Backpacks also come with many added extras like a chopping board, bottle opener, flask etc.
Which one you buy is all about personal taste and need. If I was getting an Insulated Rucksack for Picnics i would choose the Tourit ones (they are strong wearing & great value for money).
Have you used any of these Picnic Backpacks? Then please leave your review in the comments box below. Is your favourite picnic backpack not on the list? Be sure to let me know in the comments below so I can review it.
Last update on 2024-10-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.