There's no doubt that picnics are one of the easiest outdoor activities to enjoy delicious food with great company, but they can create more mess and waste than one might expect. The disposable plates, plastic cutlery, and single-use bottles quickly accumulate, and most of them end up in the landfill after an afternoon of eating. Fortunately, there are some simple, creative changes you can make to your picnic to keep it low waste without sacrificing convenience or style.
In the United States, there are some of the most sustainable picnic products available, including reusable blankets made from recycled materials and compostable plates. The only problem is that not all of these brands ship outside of the United States. That's where Ship7 comes in with a free shipping address in the US, where you can order your favourite American store and have your eco-friendly picnic supplies shipped anywhere. We've listed the most essential eco-friendly picnic accessories you should put in your basket this season.
The first step to enjoying a green meal outdoors is to select the appropriate picnic blanket, which can be constructed from recycled polyester or from organic cotton. Typically, these blankets are lightweight, easy to fold, and durable enough for repeated outdoor use.
Why People Love It: It helps to prevent plastic bottles from going to waste in landfills. The waterproof back also eliminates grass stains and wet ground.
This blanket is my basic necessity for every park trip. It folds up compactly enough to fit in a backpack, dries off rapidly if it gets soaking wet, and remains new after the summer's use. It is even easier to recommend when you know it's made from recycled material. I bought it from a U.S. retailer, and it arrived exactly when I expected it to.
– Cameron K.
Recycled fabric insulated cooler bags keep food and drink items cold while reducing plastic waste. They maintain their temperature and are very durable for use as an everyday carry bag after the picnic season is over.
Why People Love It: It reduces the quantity of ice packs and one-use cooler bags that are used, but still maintains a cold temperature for hours. Recycled materials provide a means for buyers to minimize their environmental impact without compromising performance.
This cooler bag is a lifesaver for trips to the beach, hiking, and backyard gatherings. It remains cold well into the afternoon, and the stuff has become quite tough, so it should hold up when fit around in the car. I like that it's from recycled fabric and not new plastics.
– Dylan E.
A simple change to make is to switch out the plastic forks and cutlery for a bamboo set. Bamboo adds a fast-growing, natural, and strong material that can be used for anything from sandwiches to salads.
Why People Love It: Avoids disposable plastic utensils that are typically discarded after a single use. Most sets have their own carrying case, so cleaning up is as easy as putting them back in the bag.
I keep this cutlery set in my bag for any spontaneous picnic or lunch outdoors. Unlike some bamboo sets I've used before, it's sturdy enough for real meals. Resists splitting after dozens of washes. I ordered through a US retailer, and it was delivered without any problems.
– Sierra S.
Beeswax wraps are a sustainable and reusable alternative to plastic cling film and sandwich bags. They can be shaped around food or containers with a little warm hand shaping and can be washed and used for months.
Why People Love It: It reduces the amount of plastic wrap and sandwich bags that most people use in one picnic season. The wraps also keep food, such as sandwiches, fruit, and cheese, fresh until ready to eat.
These wraps have saved me plastic wrap in the kitchen. I use them for sandwiches, cut fruit, and even on top of bowls of leftovers. Simply rinse them with cool water, and they can be used again. I placed my order at a US company, and the items were packaged nicely and delivered on time.
– Sam K.
A reusable stainless steel bottle will remain cold for hours and reduce the use of disposable plastic bottles for all outdoor meals. Most versions are designed to withstand drops, scratches, and years of everyday use.
Why People Love It: Cost-effective over the long term and reduces plastic waste at parks and beaches. The insulated bottles also keep drinks colder for longer than a regular reusable bottle.
I have been using this bottle for a year now, and it has never failed me when it comes to keeping water cold all day outside! It has no leaks, no dents, and is still as nice as the day I bought it. It has become my new default beverage of choice for every outing instead of a bottle of water.
– Ali E.
When it's not possible to use reusable tableware, compostable plates and bowls, which are made from sugarcane or palm leaf, are an excellent alternative to plastic. They do not remain in a landfill for centuries but decompose naturally after use.
Why People Love It: It provides a way for large groups to wash up without using plastic that never decomposes. The thick texture is also good for heavier items such as grilled foods or pasta salads.
I have replaced the regular disposable plates with these plates for use at family picnics, and no one has noticed the difference! They keep their shape when they eat heavier meals and don't get soaked in the middle of eating. They break down naturally after, so you don't have to feel guilty about cleaning up. I purchased them in the USA, and they arrived well and in excellent condition.
– Ray A.
Pack snacks, sides, and leftovers in reusable silicone food storage containers instead of plastic bags. They are available in various sizes and fold flat for convenient storage between trips, and they seal tightly.
Why People Love It: It helps to reduce the number of plastic bags people use for packing snacks for one day. The tight seal also helps to maintain the freshness of the food for longer than normal disposable packaging.
I've replaced nearly all plastic bags in the kitchen with these containers. I always take fruit, sandwiches, even dip in them for picnics, and nothing ever spills. They are compact when empty and don't take up much space in my travel bag when I'm going home. I ordered theirs from a US retailer, and they arrived undamaged from Ship7.– Kevin G.
An eco-friendly picnic basket, crafted from wicker, bamboo, or natural materials, adds a traditional look and promotes sustainability. A lot of them have compartments for plates, utensils, and glasses, making everything organized.
Why People Love It: It's something that looks great and will last for years, instead of plastic bins and disposable bags. Compartments are also fitted, making packing and unpacking easier without having to go through the bag.
This basket has become a permanent fixture in our picnic routine. The compartments keep it neat, and the natural material has proven to be durable and sturdy for numerous outdoor adventures. It's much prettier than any plastic bag I've ever used before.
– Gary P.
Arranging a sustainable picnic doesn't mean sacrificing the best products available in the U.S. marketplace. As a Ship7 member, you can shop the best eco-friendly picnic supplies from the top US retailers, and they will be shipped anywhere in the USA. You can get a free U.S. address, free repackaging, and low-cost international shipping. Sign up now, its free!
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