5 min read

Key Takeaways

• Outdoor blankets are designed for warmth and layering, while picnic rugs are made for ground use and easy cleaning.
• Choose an outdoor blanket for cool evenings, firepits, or camping; opt for a picnic rug for parks, beaches, or outdoor dining.
• Outdoor blankets use wool or insulating fibres, while picnic rugs often feature waterproof or stain-resistant bases.
• Grampians Goods Co. offers high-quality options in both categories, crafted for comfort, utility and timeless outdoor style.

Outdoor blankets and picnic rugs are both staples of al fresco living, but they serve different purposes. While they may look similar at first glance, each is designed with specific features and uses in mind. Understanding the differences between them can help you choose the right companion for your next outdoor event, whether it’s a beach picnic, fireside gathering or park lunch.

At Grampians Goods Co., we offer a considered range of outdoor blankets and picnic rugs crafted from natural and performance fibres. Here’s what sets them apart.

What Is an Outdoor Blanket Used For?

Outdoor blankets are designed to provide warmth, comfort and insulation in open-air settings. Typically made from wool or wool-blend fabrics, they are ideal for use at evening concerts, winter camping trips, or sitting around the firepit. Their primary function is to be wrapped around the body or used as a warming layer.

Grampians Goods Co.’s Outdoor Blankets collection features heavy-duty throws that are soft, breathable, and naturally insulating. Many are made with Australian wool, well suited for the country’s variable climate. Their versatility also makes them useful indoors, offering texture and comfort across seasons. Unlike picnic rugs, outdoor blankets focus on thermal performance over ground protection. They’re often taken along for extra cosiness, not just sitting space.

What Makes a Picnic Rug Ideal for Ground Use?

Picnic rugs are purpose-built for use on the ground. They’re designed to create a clean, dry, and often padded surface for sitting or laying down food and drinks. These rugs are typically constructed with a durable base, often waterproof or resistant to moisture, and a woven or patterned top for comfort and style.

At Grampians Goods Co., our Picnic Blankets collection includes options made from recycled wool blends, with stitched edges and easy-care finishes. They’re perfect for family gatherings at the park, beach days, festivals, or backyard get-togethers.

Picnic rugs prioritise practicality, resisting damp grass, spills and sandy terrain, while remaining easy to carry and clean. Many styles also feature classic checks or stripes for a timeless, relaxed aesthetic.

How Do Materials and Features Differ Between the Two?

The biggest distinction lies in material purpose and construction:

• Outdoor blankets are usually made with dense, insulating fibres like pure wool or wool blends. They are soft to the touch, designed to hold warmth, and often feature thicker weaves for draping or layering.
  

• Picnic rugs use lighter materials and have reinforced or waterproof backings, making them ideal for contact with grass, sand or soil. These are often easier to fold and clean after use.

At Grampians Goods Co., we also offer hybrid options that combine the best of both, such as the All-Weather Adventure Blankets, which are designed for versatility in the outdoors.

Other features that distinguish the two:

• Leather blanket carriers for portability
• Roll-up straps or handles for easy transport
• Stain-resistant finishes for spills or light rain
• Picnic rugs are more functional for ground use, while outdoor throws lean toward wearable warmth.

Which One Should You Choose for Your Next Outing?

The right choice depends on how you plan to use it:

• Choose an outdoor blanket if you need something to wrap around yourself, sit with during cooler evenings, or keep in the car for unexpected weather changes. Great for music festivals, camping, or firepit evenings.
  

• Choose a picnic rug if you need a durable ground layer for meals, gatherings, or beach visits. Ideal for daytime picnics, parks, playgrounds or sporting events.
  

If you're planning a weekend away, both can serve a purpose, use the picnic rug during the day and the outdoor blanket when the temperature drops.

Where to Find High-Quality Outdoor Throws and Picnic Rugs

Grampians Goods Co. offers a curated range of products designed for comfort, style, and durability in the outdoors. Whether you’re after a checked picnic blanket for summer outings or a woollen throw for chilly nights, each piece is made to support Australian outdoor living with practical design and natural materials. Browse our full collections of Outdoor Blankets and Picnic Blankets to find the right fit, or contact our team for help selecting the best option for your lifestyle.