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10 Best Picnic Baskets UK 2024

For many of us, there's no better way to spend time with our nearest and dearest than sharing food, drinks, and fun, but if we can do it in the sunshine, all the better. The right picnic basket will not only make packing and transporting everything a whole lot easier, but it can also keep your food cool or warm, or most importantly, intact! 


Whether you'd like a traditional set for a romantic trip or a family hamper for travel, this guide will help you work out which type of basket to go for. Chosen from Amazon, eBay and Argos for their great quality, features, and prices, we've also compiled the ten best options for 2, 4 and more, including wicker and insulated baskets and even backpacks. 

Last updated 25/03/2024
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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Picnic Basket in the UK - Buying Guide

Depending on where you're planning on enjoying your picnic, and with how many lucky guests, there will be certain materials, capacities, and features that suit you best. In this section, we'll go through them all to ensure no one goes hungry! 

1

Choose Between Traditional Wicker or Modern Fabric Baskets

As well as wicker baskets and hampers, nowadays there's a more diverse range of styles and materials available to suit the modern-day picknicker. They both have their merits, so take a look at the details before you go ahead and choose. 

Fabric Baskets Are Usually Insulated to Keep Food Fresh

Fabric Baskets Are Usually Insulated to Keep Food Fresh
Source:amazon.co.uk


The latest picnic baskets are similar to cool bags, and made from hardwearing, lightweight fabrics such as polyester canvas to make them easy to transport. They can even be foldable, making them great for winter storage or taking on holidays or camping trips.


Their biggest draw is that they're usually insulated to keep the contents hot or cold. The degree to which they are insulated, however, can vary. For example, for top-tier insulation, look for a cool bag-style basket, preferably with foam padding, or if you require less, consider settling for an insulated compartment or bottle holder. 

Wicker Baskets and Hampers Are Sturdy and Stylish

Wicker Baskets and Hampers Are Sturdy and Stylish

Nothing says picnic quite like a wicker basket, especially one with a pretty fabric lining. Looks aside, wicker is a durable, sturdy option that will protect any fragile food items from becoming squashed or damaged, and will withstand years of romantic lunches or family fun. 


There are two things to be aware of with wicker, though. The first is the lining – it's usually cotton fabric that's not so easily cleaned in the case of spillages, so be wary of any leak-prone containers or consider packing them in additional bags or boxes. 


Secondly, insulation. In general, wicker baskets are best for picnics with a shorter transport time or for storing food or drinks that won't spoil at room or outside temperatures. That being said, some hampers do include thermal-lined compartments, so keep an eye out if you'd like this practicality. 

2

Make Sure You Get the Capacity You Need

Make Sure You Get the Capacity You Need

There are several variables when it comes to how much food you're looking to pack, such as whether you're going for a full meal or more of a laid-back snacking affair, and whether you'll be using the basket for tableware as well as food. 


Most brands list how many people can be catered for, usually two, four, or six, but you could also check the dimensions. Loosely, around 40 x 25 x 30 cm would be sufficient for two, whereas 45 x 35 x 30 cm and over would be better for four or more. 


You may also like to check how the basket is organised, for instance, whether the dimensions include any inner compartments, or any outside ones, for that matter, to make the most of the space available.

3

Straps, Handles and Wheels: Consider Your Portability Requirements

Straps, Handles and Wheels: Consider Your Portability Requirements

If you're anticipating a long walk to your picnic spot, efficient portability is a must. Similarly, if you have lots of other things to carry, the right straps could mean the difference between an easy walk and a dropped hamper disaster.


Wicker hamper designs and handled baskets traditionally feature no more than a single small handle which better suit shorter trips, though these days some do offer carrying straps, and even wheels.


Most fabric baskets also come with a single handle, but, unlike wicker, they can also offer comfortable padding and shoulder straps. Dreaming of mountaintop picnics? Look for a rucksack design to carry right on your back

4

Do You Require Crockery and Cups? Check What's Included

Do You Require Crockery and Cups? Check What's Included

Finally, the contents. Are you looking for a fully-filled basket with everything you could need for a three-course meal? And if so, would you prefer to set the tone with proper crockery, or is plastic more sensible with kids around? 


Additionally, some baskets also provide other handy bits of picnicking paraphernalia, such as chopping boards, corkscrews, and even blankets. Consider how useful all of this would be while you scroll through the options. 


On the other hand, if you prefer to take a Tupperware-and-spoon approach when dining al fresco, or simply want more room for food and drink, perhaps an empty basket is more your style.

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Top 10 Best Picnic Baskets in the UK 2020

We've taken all of our points of consideration to mind and used them to pick ten fantastic picnic basket recommendations, which it's now time to share. Classic or modern, practical or pretty, get your requirements at the ready and read on! 
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Fine Food Store

Picnic Basket

Fine Food Store Picnic Basket  1

£114.95

High

A Winning Combination of Pretty and Practical

2

Allcamp Outdoor Gear

Large Insulated Picnic Basket

Allcamp Outdoor Gear Large Insulated Picnic Basket  1

£29.99

Low Mid

Top Pick for a Large-Sized Insulated Basket

3

Fineway

Wicker Hamper, Round Top Hut Design

Fineway Wicker Hamper, Round Top Hut Design  1

£49.95

Mid

A Hand-Woven Basket in a Timeless Design

4

HappyPicnic

Wicker Picnic Kit

HappyPicnic Wicker Picnic Kit   1

£88.99

High Mid

Perfectly Designed for a Romantic Date

5

Livivo

Picnic Hamper Trolley

Livivo Picnic Hamper Trolley  1

£89.95

High Mid

Wheel Your Way to the Best Spot in the Park

6

Andrew James

4 Person Picnic Backpack

Andrew James 4 Person Picnic Backpack 1

£45.99

Mid

Take Your Picnic Anywhere You Like

7

Fine Food Store

Luxury Boat Style Picnic Basket

Fine Food Store  Luxury Boat Style Picnic Basket  1

£69.95

Mid

Best for Wine and Nibbles

8

Eono by Amazon

Insulated Picnic Basket

Eono by Amazon Insulated Picnic Basket  1

£20.99

Low Mid

A Simple Insulated Basket With Easy Storage

9

VonShef

6 Person Holdall Picnic Bag

VonShef 6 Person Holdall Picnic Bag 1

£54.99

Mid

Family-Sized With Everything You Could Need

10

Trespass

Basket Style Cool Bag

Trespass Basket Style Cool Bag 1

£15.99

Low

A No-Frills Insulated Basket on a Budget

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Fine Food StorePicnic Basket

Picnic Basket  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Picnic Basket  2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£114.95
High
Reference price
£114.95
High

A Winning Combination of Pretty and Practical

Love the idea of a wicker basket but don't want to sacrifice modern practicalities? With this hamper you can! It's as quaint as they come, but it also includes an insulated compartment and bottle holder, and even a stainless steel flask for serving up a round of tea.


With most of the tableware stored in the lid and a removable additional basket with steel mugs, it's also very versatile – remove the extras and pack it with food for a bigger feast, or put them to good use when the occasion arises. This is a top-quality basket to keep and use for many a picnic. 

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No.2

Allcamp Outdoor GearLarge Insulated Picnic Basket

Large Insulated Picnic Basket  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Large Insulated Picnic Basket  2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£29.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£29.99
Low Mid

Top Pick for a Large-Sized Insulated Basket

Whether you're after a basket for big family lunches or planning an outdoor party with friends, this basket should provide all the space you need. It's foil-insulated and comes with a couple of free ice packs too, so it should keep your grapes crisp and your wine chilled even on hotter days. 


Build-wise, it's sturdy and durable, with an aluminium frame, a waterproof fabric outer, and a padded inner to keep delicate food from becoming squashed. It can also double up as a drinks cooler, or even a shopping basket for fridge and freezer produce. 

No.3

FinewayWicker Hamper, Round Top Hut Design

Wicker Hamper, Round Top Hut Design  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Wicker Hamper, Round Top Hut Design  2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Wicker Hamper, Round Top Hut Design  3
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£49.95
Mid
Reference price
£49.95
Mid

A Hand-Woven Basket in a Timeless Design

If traditional charm is what you're after, this robust, hand-woven basket is your pick. It does still offer some functional features, however, such as the easy-access folding lid, an insulated lunchbox container, and a padded, backed blanket. 


Though the handle may be best suited to shorter trips from transport to field, it'll all be worth it when you get there and enjoy a first-class picnic with real linens, crockery and glassware

No.4

HappyPicnicWicker Picnic Kit

Wicker Picnic Kit   1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Wicker Picnic Kit   2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£88.99
High Mid
Reference price
£88.99
High Mid

Perfectly Designed for a Romantic Date

Whoever you're looking to impress, why not wine and dine them in style with this fully-filled hamper set? As well as a real crockery, stainless steel cutlery and wine glasses for two, it also features a fold-out bamboo table with cup holders to ensure no awkward spillages ruin the mood. 


There are also some other thoughtful and practical touches worth mentioning, such as the additional waterproof-backed blanket, the inner foam padding to protect food and drink items, and the real leather straps which keep everything in place.

No.5

LivivoPicnic Hamper Trolley

Picnic Hamper Trolley  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£89.95
High Mid
Reference price
£89.95
High Mid

Wheel Your Way to the Best Spot in the Park

Essentially a hamper on wheels, this truly brings the classic wicker picnic basket right up to date! The back wheels and telescopic handle are just like those on a trolley suitcase, so you can cart it from car to idyllic spot without breaking a sweat. 


Inside, there's dinnerware for four (made from real ceramic and glass), as well as a 5-piece barbecue serving set, rather uniquely. Though adequately kitsch, the lining is made from cotton linen, so you'll have to take care with cooked foods or leaky containers. 

No.6

Andrew James4 Person Picnic Backpack

4 Person Picnic Backpack 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£45.99
Mid
Reference price
£45.99
Mid

Take Your Picnic Anywhere You Like

Designed for the adventurous picnicker, this backpack and its large, comfortable straps will grant you and up to three others the freedom to to take your dinner party wherever you like. 


The tableware is all made from plastic and steel and the bag itself is waterproof, so it'd be a welcome addition to a camping trip too, particularly if you're heading off the beaten track. Just bear in mind that the only insulation is a detachable bottle holder

No.7

Fine Food Store Luxury Boat Style Picnic Basket

Luxury Boat Style Picnic Basket  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Luxury Boat Style Picnic Basket  2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£69.95
Mid
Reference price
£69.95
Mid

Best for Wine and Nibbles

Compact and cute, this is a must-have basket for special occasions, or just to have on hand for impromptu posh picnics. The fabric-lined compartment is spacious enough for sandwiches or nibbles, and there's upright storage for two bottles of whatever you fancy. A fleece blanket is also included.


It is a tad on the pricey side for a smaller basket with limited functionality, but if you're treating a loved one or would like to invest in quality, you may not mind the extra splurge.

No.8

Eono by AmazonInsulated Picnic Basket

Insulated Picnic Basket  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Insulated Picnic Basket  2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£20.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£20.99
Low Mid

A Simple Insulated Basket With Easy Storage

Amazon's own-brand picnic basket offers an affordable, modern alternative to a wicker design, and favours simplicity in both looks and features. It's fully insulated and can be used with or without ice packs, and its heat-sealed, leakproof lining allows for easy cleaning


Though completely foldable and weighing just 700 g, it can still withstand a mighty 30 kg of food and drink. With only one outer pocket and a fairly small capacity, it is best for smaller, casual picnics as you'll have to squeeze in your own plates or carry them separately.

No.9

VonShef6 Person Holdall Picnic Bag

6 Person Holdall Picnic Bag 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
6 Person Holdall Picnic Bag 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£54.99
Mid
Reference price
£54.99
Mid

Family-Sized With Everything You Could Need

If practicality takes priority and you've got a larger get together planned, how about this Marry Poppins-esque picnic holdall? Cleverly, the pockets containing plastic servingware for six are on the outside, which means more space in the fully-insulated main compartment for food and drink. 


It's fashioned from a lightweight polyester, and includes both canvas handles and a carrying strap for easy transportation. The fact that it's more of bag than a basket means you'll have to be careful not to overload it, however, and there's not as much protection for fragile food items.  

No.10

TrespassBasket Style Cool Bag

Basket Style Cool Bag 1
Source:argos.co.uk
Basket Style Cool Bag 2
Source:argos.co.uk
Basket Style Cool Bag 3
Source:argos.co.uk
Reference price
£15.99
Low
Reference price
£15.99
Low

A No-Frills Insulated Basket on a Budget

This cool bag-style basket is about as pared back as it gets, and very affordable as a result. Add this to the fact that it's fully foldable, and you've got a great pack-away picnic holder to stash in the car for holidays or day trips. 


Whilst the capacity is measured in litres rather than how many guests it's suitable for, it's pretty roomy, and can fit the equivalent of 30 drinks cans. For occasional use that doesn't warrant a big spend, it'll certainly do the job. 

Perfect Picnic Additions

Perfect Picnic Additions

In the market for more useful picnicking accessories? Follow the links below to find out just what you need to eat, drink and be merry in the great outdoors. 

Summary

Whether you're planning a food-filled get-together with friends or orchestrating the quintessential first date, we hope you've found the ideal picnic basket from our list. So long as you consider its main uses, the size, and how practical (or chic) you need it to be, you'll be well on your way to a prudent purchase.  


Author: Natasha Dziubajlo

Top 5 Picnic Baskets

No. 1: Fine Food StorePicnic Basket

No. 2: Allcamp Outdoor GearLarge Insulated Picnic Basket

No. 3: FinewayWicker Hamper, Round Top Hut Design

No. 4: HappyPicnicWicker Picnic Kit

No. 5: LivivoPicnic Hamper Trolley

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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