I first wrote this article back in 2020, when a backyard picnic was less “cute idea” and more “the only way David and I were seeing another human beings.” Fast forward a few years, and what started as a quarantine safeguard has turned into one of our favorite regular traditions — right up there with our weekly date nights. We have swapped out a few pieces, upgraded others, and after this many picnics in our backyard, dare we say that we have achieved expert status?
So I am dusting off this list and giving it the 2026 refresh it deserves — same easy, low-effort backyard picnic setup, just with the pieces that have actually held up over time. If you are looking for backyard entertaining ideas that do not require a full patio remodel, this is your list. Tell me in the comments what is on your backyard picnic essentials list these days — I am always looking to add to mine.
This article was originally published in June 2020 and has since been updated and recirculated for September 2026.
Why a Backyard Picnic is Still One of Our Favorite Ways to Entertain
There is something about moving a meal outside that makes it feel like an occasion. No reservations, no dressing up — just good food, good company, and (if we have done our job) zero mosquito bites. Here is everything that is still in our regular rotation.
10 Backyard Picnic Essentials for 2026 (Updated Favorites We Still Swear By)
Acrylic Stemware
Self-proclaimed sommelier status means I like nice stemware, even outdoors — acrylic just means I am not picking up glass out of the fire pit area the next morning. If you want recommendations, here are some of my favorite red wines and white wines to try, and if you are looking to support local, I have a whole post on North Carolina wineries worth checking out too.
Another great option are these Corkcicle wine glasses. I have a set of two that I bring when traveling as well as using outdoors.
Beverage Cooler or Good Wine Cooler
This one is non-negotiable. We use ours to keep drinks cold and to make the trek out to the fire pit or front porch a one-trip job instead of three. I actually use this side table that doubles as a cooler. I will put a bottle of already chilled wine in my Vinglacé inside my cooler table.
Comfortable Seating
Blankets, portable chairs, or something more permanent like Adirondack chairs — whatever gets you off the ground. We added a set of ottomans and a small table to our front porch a while back, and they migrated to the backyard more often than not. See more of our porch favorites here.
Mosquito Repellent (a Thermacell Is Still Worth It)
Our Thermacell is still one of the best backyard investments we have made. Pair it with a few citronella candles for ambiance that also happens to be functional.
A Portable Speaker
No backyard picnic is complete without music and this portable speaker is so cute. My go-to Spotify playlists are Jazzy Dinner and Adult Dinner Party — both are my most-played for when we have guests over.
Reusable Napkins
Double duty: keeping food covered outdoors and going straight into the wash when we are done. Plus, I like a good linen napkin, and these are a great price.
Reusable Plates
While I do not love hauling out my “real” place settings, paper plates are not it either. A cute set of reusable outdoor plates solves both problems. These have been my favorites for quite a while.
Reusable Silverware
Small thing with the same sentiment as the reusable plates for outdoors.
A Serving Platter
A nice serving platter turns “we’re eating outside” into an actual spread. A cheese and charcuterie board is always a great go-to move for an easy backyard picnic dinner.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen and a good hat — maybe the least glamorous, most essential item on this list. Put your sunscreen in the cooler to keep it cool on warmer evenings.
Backyard Picnic FAQ
What do you need for a backyard picnic? At minimum: a blanket or seating, plates and utensils you can reuse, a way to keep drinks cold, and something to keep bugs away. Everything else is a nice-to-have.
How do you keep bugs away during an outdoor picnic? A Thermacell (or similar mosquito repellent device) paired with citronella candles has been the most effective combination we have found for backyard entertaining.
What is a good easy menu for a backyard picnic? A cheese and charcuterie board on a serving tray is the lowest-effort, highest-payoff option — no cooking required, and it looks intentional with almost no work. We also enjoy getting pizza from one of our favorite spots.
What’s on your backyard picnic essentials list these days? Tell me in the comments — I am always collecting ideas!
