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The Best Outdoor Blanket Mats

These versatile blankets double as floor mats for your campsite, the beach and your next tailgate

By Tim Chan

Tim Chan

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February 21, 2021

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One of the most practical items you can have in your outdoor kit or keep in your car is an outdoor blanket mat. As its name suggests, the best outdoor blanket mats are fabric-lined covers that double as both a cozy blanket, and a mat for sitting or laying out on the ground.

These outdoor blankets are great for keeping warm during a campfire or cookout, and they’re must-haves for tailgating too. Unfurl them, and they become versatile mats, that are great for laying on top of the sand for a beach day, or for a picnic in the park.

The best outdoor blanket mats are made from rugged, durable materials that hold up to repeated use and stress. Don’t worry about tossing them on the ground; the thick material won’t scratch or rip, even if there are a couple branches or rocks underneath. We’ve found options made from waterproof materials too, so they’ll stay dry in all weather conditions. If they get dirty, toss these blankets in the wash and they’re as good as new.

Our favorite outdoor blankets are all easy to pack and carry, with all three of our picks folding (or rolling) up into a pouch or bag that you can sling across your shoulders. They’re lightweight enough to not weigh down your gear, but heavy-duty enough to put under your hot (or cold) food, your favorite drinks, and yourself.

1. JJ Cole Outdoor Blanket

This durable blanket mat is great for the beach, park, camping or your next tailgate. It’s made with a water-resistant fabric that’s easy to wipe clean. The solid-colored side goes down on the ground, while a quilted, printed side is great for laying out your picnic spread or lounging the day away. A sewn-in insert provides a little bit of padding for comfort.

We like that this blanket folds up into its own tote bag. An adjustable shoulder strap lets you take it with you easily.

This blanket measures 5 x 7 feet, though other sizes are available. Other colors and prints available too.

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Buy JJ Cole Outdoor Blanket

2. PortableAnd Picnic and Outdoor Blanket

Get the best of both looks and functionality with this outdoor blanket, which features a soft fleece top and a waterproof PEVA material on the bottom. There’s even a thin layer of foam in the middle, to make the blanket extra comfortable to lie on or sit on.

At 4.9 x 4.6 feet, the picnic mat can comfortably seat up to four people. When you’re done, roll it up and tie it down with the included leather-like straps.

We like the retro, camp or cottage-inspired style of the blanket, which makes it cozy enough to use as a throw too, say around the campfire or for chilly nights at the beach.

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Buy PortableAnd Picnic and Outdoor Blanket $24.99

3. Laguna Beach Textile Company Blanket

This blanket is waterproof, wind-proof and sand-proof, making it great for the outdoors — and great for keeping you dry.

One side is made from a waterproof oxford fabric to repel rain and sleet; the other side is made with a cozy fleece lining, to keep you warm and comfortable.

Use this as a blanket for an outdoor movie night, tailgating or camping. Or throw it down on the ground to use it as a mat.

The blanket is machine washable, though it’s best to hang dry. The blanket rolls up into a sleeping bag-style sack for easy carrying. Sling it over your shoulders with the included strap. The sack includes a pocket that’s great for your keys, phone and other small accessories.

At 6 x 4.7 feet, there’s enough room to fit up to three adults, or a family of four.

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Buy Laguna Beach Textile Company Blanket

4. ONIVA Outdoor Picnic Blanket

We love how easily this outdoor blanket folds up into an 11 x 18-inch tote. The carrying strap lets you hang it over your shoulders too, rather than having to hold it with your hands. There’s even a little pocket in the tote for your essentials, like your phone, wallet, keys and sunglasses.

At 6.7 x 5.8 feet, this is the largest outdoor blanket on our list and the XL size makes it great for families. Get a cozy polyester fleece on one side (available in a half dozen prints and patterns) with a water-resistant backing, that repels water, sand, dirt and dust.

Keep one in your car as an emergency blanket, or for use at the beach or park. It’s great for outdoor concerts and festivals, and at the park or playground with kids too.

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Buy ONIVA Outdoor Picnic Blanket $34.77

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