Pacmat
Waterproof picnic blankets that fold down small and hold up well. PACMATs are light, tough and easy to carry – made in Britain from soft nylon and durable ripstop. They pack into their own bag and come in handy sizes, from solo sits to roomy family spreads. Warm, washable and brilliantly practical, they’re made for outdoorsy types who don’t want to faff.
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PACMAT Picnic Blankets FAQs
What size picnic blanket is best for a family?
The best picnic blanket size for a family is usually a large or extra-large PACMAT, fitting 4–6 people plus bits and bobs. You'll have space to sprawl, snack, and keep items off damp grass. Made from tough technical fabric, PACMATs fold down small despite their generous size. The XL version is about 2.4m x 2.4m and has corner loops for pegging - handy when the breeze picks up.
How do I fold and pack away a PACMAT?
To fold a PACMAT picnic blanket, simply fold it lengthways, then again widthways until snug in its stuff sack. No need to be perfect - its flexible fabric forgives a rushed pack-up. Weighing under a kilo and rolling to jumper-size, it fits neatly in most rucksacks. Ideal for anyone who’s not keen on making a meal of packing away.
Can you machine wash a PACMAT picnic blanket?
Yes, you can machine wash a PACMAT picnic blanket on a cold or 30°C gentle cycle. These long-lasting picnic mats use technical fabric made to withstand regular washes. Pop it on the line to air dry and avoid tumble drying or fabric softener, which can damage the waterproof layer. Even after sandy days or muddy walks, they come up looking fresh.
What are the longest-lasting picnic blankets available?
The longest-lasting picnic blankets are made from durable, technical materials - like PACMATs. They feature tough ripstop nylon on top and waterproof polyester underneath, making them tear-resistant, washable, and well-suited to repeated adventures. Reinforced corners and pegging loops add to their longevity. Built for real-life use, they earn their keep every outing. See how we test durability on our research process page.
Are PACMATs suitable for damp or cold ground?
Yes, PACMATs are suitable for damp or cold ground thanks to their waterproof polyester base. It acts as a moisture barrier, keeping you dry even on soggy grass or frosty mornings. Though not insulated like a camping mat, you can pop another blanket underneath for chillier days. They’re still light enough to carry without feeling like a pack mule.
What makes PACMATs different from standard picnic rugs?
PACMATs differ from standard picnic rugs by being waterproof, lightweight, and machine washable. They’re made from tear-resistant ripstop and durable polyester that won’t soak through or weigh you down. Unlike bulky blankets, they fold small, weigh under a kilo, and have pegging loops to stop them taking flight. Great for hiking, the park, or just the back garden.
What are some great long-lasting gifts for outdoor lovers?
PACMAT picnic blankets make thoughtful, long-lasting gifts for outdoor lovers - from hikers and festival fans to picnic pros. They're practical, hard-wearing, and built for adventure. You’ll find more top-notch gifting ideas in our durable gift collection - each one picked to last and delight.
How do I care for the waterproof backing over time?
To care for the waterproof backing, gently wash on a cool cycle and always air dry. Skip fabric softeners and steer clear of tumble dryers, as both can damage the coating. If water starts soaking in after heavy use, revive the layer with a spray-on DWR treatment. For more handy advice, visit our care and repair hub.
