Looking for a proper picnic backpack that will elevate your picnic game? Then you’re definitely in the right place because this guide features ten of the best picnic backpacks money can buy!
The best thing about picnic backpacks is that they come equipped with all the utensils you might need for a picnic. We’ve judged the backpacks by the quality of the included utensils, but also by the build quality and carrying comfort. We also sneaked in a great cooler backpack, for any picnickers who are more concerned with keeping their drinks ice cold.
At A Glance: Best Picnic Backpacks
So, read on to see the best picnic backpacks money can buy, and find the ideal one for you!
![]() | Best Picnic Backpack For Four
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![]() | Most Stylish Picnic Backpack For Two
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![]() | Best Cooler Backpack For Picnics
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![]() | Best Picnic Backpack For Hiking
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![]() | Best Budget Picnic Backpack
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The AveriFields picnic backpack is one of the best (and priciest) options for family picnics. This roomy picnic backpack features a large insulated compartment for perishables, as well as an additional compartment in the front for all the utensils.
There’s a dedicated spot for every single item that’s included with this backpack, and I have to point out that this pack includes the most gear out of all the bags featured here. It’s the only picnic backpack that comes with a wooden tray and an extra tote bag that can carry all the items that don’t fit in the picnic bag.
Additionally, the AveriFields pack also includes stainless steel cutlery for four, plastic cups, plates, napkins, a wooden cutting board, a cheese knife, a bottle opener, and salt and pepper shakers. A picnic blanket with waterproof backing is also included with the bag, as well as a side pocket that can fit two wine bottles.
This picnic backpack also features a small zippered pocket on the front panel, as well as a D-ring attachment point for bulkier gear. It boasts a comfortable back system with padding in the shoulder straps and back panel, and it’s overall one of the best picnic backpacks for groups.
If you want a stylish picnic backpack, this California bag is an excellent option. It’s got a beautiful design with leather-looking straps on the front and a very generous capacity. The main compartment of this backpack is entirely insulated, and it’s got a few external pockets where you can keep some smaller accessories.
So, where does the picnic gear go? You get an additional carry bag with the pack, which is packed full of all the picnic gear you might need. It’s worth noting that this is advertised as a picnic backpack for four, but it only includes enough crockery and cutlery for a couple of people.
You get plates, wine glasses, a cheese knife, a wooden cutting board, salt and pepper shakers, a corkscrew, napkins, and stainless steel cutlery. The backpack also comes with a cute picnic blanket that secures to the bag with leather-effect compression straps.
Additionally, the back system features padding in the shoulder straps and back panel for comfortable carrying. Overall, this is easily one of the best picnic backpacks for two you can get, especially if you prefer something with a roomier food compartment.
Yeti Hopper Backflip 24 is one of the best cooler backpacks money can buy. It’s just too good not to mention it even if it’s not a proper picnic backpack. You won’t get crockery or cutlery with this backpack, you definitely won’t get a cheese knife, and a blanket is not included.
What you will get is a premium cooler backpack with the capacity of 20 cans. That capacity accounts for the 2:1 ice ratio, which will ensure that those cans stay ice-cold for the entire day. Also, the Yeti cooler backpack has just one (insulated) compartment, but it’s got a bunch of external attachment points so you could attach all the other picnic necessities in smaller bags.
This cooler backpack features a dryhide shell that’s made from a high-density fabric. It is waterproof and resistant to punctures, and UV rays, so everything inside this backpack will stay protected from the elements.
The waterproofing also applies to the interior of the bag, meaning that there’s no way something will start leaking from this bag. The Backflip is equipped with Hydrolok zippers, which are entirely leakproof.
This backpack also features thick padding in the back panel, for maximum wearing comfort. It’s got a sternum strap and a hip belt, so you can stay comfortable even if you’re walking around for hours with a fully packed Backflip on your back.
One more thing to note is that Yeti has officially discontinued this backpack in 2022. It’s still possible to purchase it at various retailers, but you might be better off getting the newer version of their classic cooler backpack. It’s extremely similar to the Backflip and the closure (rolltop vs zipper) is the main difference between the two bags.
If you’re looking to get a picnic backpack for hiking, this Vogano backpack for two is a great option. It’s worth noting that the brand has several picnic backpacks for two – the features are similar and the main difference is in the design of the backpack. They include all the same picnic gear and accessories, but the number of pockets and compartments differs.
That’s why we picked this Vogano backpack to feature. In addition to an insulated cooler compartment and a front organizer with all the picnic accessories, this backpack also has an additional front pocket. There’s MOLLE on both front compartments, which is great because it means you can use a carabiner to attach other gear to the exterior of this pack.
This tactical picnic bag also features a comfortable back system with padding in the back panel and shoulder straps. You can definitely use it to carry more than just crockery and food, and that’s why this is by far the best picnic backpack for hikers.
In terms of what’s included in the bag, you get all the standard picnic gear for two. Plates, glasses, cutlery, napkins, and salt and pepper shakers are all neatly organized inside the front compartment of the pack. A picnic blanket is also included, and it has its own dedicated sleeve behind the back panel.
The One Savy Girl picnic backpack for 4 is one of the best options under $50. It’s equipped with full dining sets for four people, including plates, cups, and utensils. Everything is made from stainless steel and it’s dishwasher safe, so cleaning up after the picnic will be super easy.
The backpack also includes an insulated wine bottle holder, a picnic blanket with a water-resistant bottom, salt and pepper shakers, a bottle opener, napkins, and a cutting board. The fact that all the utensils, including the cups and plates, are made from stainless steel is my favorite thing about this picnic set.
The backpack itself is okay, but nothing too special. It’s made from 1680D Polyurethane, so it boasts pretty sturdy construction. This material is water- and abrasion-resistant, so the backpack should perform well in changing weather conditions.
Another thing to note is that this backpack features two main compartments. There’s one insulated compartment where you’re supposed to keep all the perishables, as well as a front compartment with lots of smaller pockets for all the picnic accessories. The front compartment boasts a three-zipper opening, so as soon as you open it you have easy access to everything inside.
If you’re just getting into picnics and you’re missing a bunch of gear, the Sunflora Picnic Backpack is an excellent option. The backpack is sold fully packed with picnic necessities, including a spacious picnic blanket, cutlery, plates, wine glasses, a bottle opener, a bamboo cutting board, and salt and pepper shakers.
This picnic backpack features multiple pockets and compartments, with an organizer for all the cutlery and plates in the front pocket. Everything has its own spot in this pack, which makes it a top choice for people who prefer to keep all their bags neatly organized.
The insulated compartment is separate from the rest, and it’s where you’re supposed to put the food and drinks. This pack also comes with a resealable waterproof bag, so you can easily separate any items that could spill.
In addition to that, you’ll also get an insulated wine holder that attaches to the side of the bag. The blanket also has its spot on the other side of the pack, and it’s worth noting that it’s got a waterproof bottom. Overall, this is one of the pricier picnic backpack options, but it’s great value for money since the only thing it’s missing for a picnic is the food.
Another thing worth noting is that the back panel features several padded panels that are covered with mesh, for excellent breathability.
AllCamp picnic backpack for two is a good option if you don’t really need a picnic backpack for four. However, I have to point out that this isn’t necessarily a more affordable option and that some of the 4-person backpacks are actually cheaper than this one.
This is a good-looking picnic backpack. It’s got a sleek and modern exterior, and it’s made from durable polyester. It boasts a spacious insulated compartment for perishables, as well as a roomy front compartment with lots of smaller pockets so you can keep all the crockery and cutlery organized.
This backpack includes enough picnic gear for a romantic picnic for two – glasses, plates, napkins, and flatware. It also comes with a corkscrew, a picnic blanket, a wine bottle insulator, salt and pepper shakers, and a plastic cutting board. One thing to note is that most other backpacks include a wooden cutting board, whereas the AllCamp pack comes with a plastic one.
It’s a matter of personal preference, but wooden boards are generally better quality. On the other hand, plastic boards can go in the dishwasher, so it’s ultimately up to you.
The Hap Tim backpack for four is an excellent option for a family picnic backpack. It’s got a large insulated compartment that can easily fit enough food for four, plus you’ll get all the utensils four people might need on a picnic.
The backpack is equipped with cutlery, plastic wine glasses, a wine bottle insulator, plastic plates, a bottle opener, and a fleece blanket with waterproof backing. It includes stainless steel cutlery, but everything else is plastic and I’m not too thrilled about that. Also, this is one of a few picnic backpacks that doesn’t include a cutting board, so keep that in mind.
The organization is great in this bag. There’s a dedicated spot for everything, whether it’s a fork or a blanket. Also, the insulated compartment is roomier than on most other bags, making the Hap Tim picnic backpack a good option for people who are more concerned about how much food they can fit in the pack, and not if they’ll get a cutting board.
The back panel of this pack features padded backpack straps, but it lacks a sternum strap and a hip belt. There’s also no breathable mesh on the back panel, so there’s certainly room for improvement with back system airflow.
The Apollo Walker picnic backpack is made from polyester and it boasts an interesting plaid design. If you want a backpack that’s a bit different and stylish, this is certainly a good option. It’s available in both two-person and four-person versions and there are very few differences between the two models, apart from the size and the number of utensils inside.
The insulated compartment is quite roomy and it’s separate from the utensils compartment. All the crockery and cutlery go inside the front compartment, and there’s a dedicated spot for everything, from salt and pepper shakes to plates.
In addition to all the crockery and cutlery you might need on a picnic, this backpack also includes an insulated wine bottle holder and a blanket with waterproof backing. The blanket and the insulated holder can be attached to the sides of the backpack, while everything else goes in the front compartment with an organizer.
The back system boasts padding in the shoulder straps and back panel, but it’s worth noting that the pack doesn’t include a sternum strap or a hip belt.
The HappyPicnic backpack is a good option if you want a modern picnic bag. This backpack is available in multiple different designs and styles, and we’re focusing on the American model here. It’s worth noting that the bags all come with the same utensils, and the size and style of the bag are what differ the most.
The HappyPicnic American backpack features a top-loading insulated compartment that can fit enough food and drinks for four people. The total capacity of this compartment is 26 cans, which is pretty generous for a picnic backpack.
The bag also features a smaller compartment in the front, which holds all the picnic utensils. You get beautiful stainless steel cutlery with wooden accents, plates, wine glasses, napkins, a cheese knife, a wooden cutting board, a corkscrew, and salt and pepper shakers.
The backpack also comes with a detachable picnic blanket. It’s made from fleece and it’s got a waterproof backing, so not even wet ground can interrupt your picnic plans. The pack has stretchy pockets on the sides that can easily hold a wine bottle each. They’re also insulated, so your picnic wine can always be at the perfect temperature.
Getting a picnic backpack that’s just the right size is pretty important. Usually, you can choose between a picnic backpack for two and a backpack for four people. This refers to the number of utensils that you get inside the backpack, so consider just how many people you usually go on picnics with.
There’s no point in getting a backpack for four if it’s usually just you and another person. It might seem like a good idea to get the bigger backpack, but you’ll be stuck carrying around cutlery and plates you don’t actually need. Not to mention that backpacks for four are more expensive than backpacks for two.
Also, it’s worth noting that there’s usually not that much of a difference in the size of the insulated compartment. In fact, most backpacks featured in this review have similar dimensions, and the main difference is the price and just how much stuff is packed inside the bag.
In case you’re thinking about getting a cooler backpack, after all, consider the capacity of the main compartment – how many cans (or pounds of ice) can it hold? This determines how much food you can carry in the bag, but you’ll have to figure something else out for all the picnic accessories.
How serious are you about your picnics? If it’s something you do once in a blue moon, you’re better off just getting an affordable backpack that serves its purpose. But if it’s something you do pretty often, you should consider getting a pricier backpack.
It’s going to last you a lot longer, especially with frequent use. Also, higher-quality backpacks offer better insulation and they will keep the food and drinks colder for longer. That’s great for picnics when you have to hike to the destination for a little while, but also for summer picnics when everything heats up much quicker.
Not to mention that you’ll get better quality crockery and cutlery if you go for a pricier backpack. If it’s a $20 difference between dishwasher safe and hand wash only, it would be the best $20 I ever spent.
This review focuses mostly on picnic backpacks, but we did include one cooler backpack because it’s just too good to skip. Picnic backpacks usually have multiple pockets and compartments, and they often come with loads of picnic accessories.
You get plates, glasses, cutlery, and usually a picnic blanket as well, so you just need to fill it up with food and you’re ready for the picnic! They’re a great option if you want designated crockery for a picnic, but keep in mind that picnic backpacks usually have a pretty small insulated compartment.
Also, a picnic backpack will never have premium insulation in the food compartment. It will work well for a few hours, but you will need to add lots of ice to keep the drinks cold. Cooler backpacks are the better option if you’re mainly worried about the fridge aspect of the backpack, but you won’t have as much space for all the other necessities.
Premium cooler backpacks will include a pocket or two for cutlery and crockery, but their main feature remains the insulated compartment. So, before you bite the bullet and get a picnic backpack, just consider whether you would rather get a true picnic backpack with all the bells and whistles, or just a really good cooler backpack that you can later fill with your favorite plates and glasses.
Still not sure which picnic backpack to buy? Then go with one of our top picks, depending on what features you’re prioritizing in the best picnic backpack for you!
The Vogano Picnic Backpack for two is an excellent option for avid hikers. It’s the only decent tactical picnic backpack, with convenient MOLLE panels all over the front of the bag. This picnic pack comes with all the utensils you need for a picnic (plates, glasses, cutlery, etc.) and a blanket, plus you get the option of attaching anything you want to the front panel.
The AveriFields Picnic Backpack is the best option if you want a picnic pack for four people. It’s the most feature-packed backpack out of the bunch, and it even includes a convenient wooden tray with cut-outs for the included wine glasses.
The bag also boasts a comfortable back system with thick padding, a D-ring attachment point for extra gear, and an additional zippered pocket on the front panel.
Yeti Hopper Backflip is by far the best choice if you want a good cooler backpack. It’s not a proper picnic backpack but it is an excellent cooler, so a great option if you’re more worried about preserving the temperature of food and drinks inside the backpack. It’s also very comfortable to wear thanks to a great back system with padding, a sternum strap, and a hip belt.
Head over to Amazon to see more photos and the prices of all the picnic backpacks featured in this review. Don’t forget to check out our related posts as well, for ideas on other must-have gear to elevate the way you picnic!
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