What picnic shelters and mats are for
A picnic shelter is for a day out rather than a night: somewhere in the shade to sit, eat and keep the children out of the sun in the park, at the beach or on a campsite. So this range is mostly two things. There are quick shelters, from small pop-up sun shelters to large canopies and one-touch tents, and there are picnic mats and blankets to sit on. A few family tents here suit a picnic by day and sleep the family at night.
Sun shelters, canopies, one-touch tents and mats
Shade that moves with the sun
A picnic shelter is about shade, and shade moves. Pick a shelter you can turn, or one with an adjustable side: the beach sun shade awning here has a rod that changes its angle, and says it blocks 98% of UV. An open-fronted shelter lets the breeze through on a hot day. In wind, peg every corner, or fill sandbags on the beach. A small pop-up shelter suits one or two; for a family, the bigger canopies and one-touch tents give room for everyone and the food.
Choosing a picnic mat
Look at the underside first. Grass is damp even on a sunny day, so a waterproof or moisture-proof backing matters more than a soft top. The mats here range from a 200 by 300cm moisture-proof mat that is machine washable, to a sand-proof beach blanket, a double-sided foil mat that also works as a groundsheet, and a self-inflating mat for up to three people. Check the size against how many of you there are, and the folded size against your bag.
Questions people ask about picnic shelters and mats
Can a picnic shelter be used for camping?
The one-touch and family pop-up tents can. The sun shelters and canopies are for the day.
Do picnic mats work in a tent?
Several are made to: laid on the tent floor, they add warmth and keep the groundsheet clean. See groundsheets and footprints.
How long does delivery take?
Delivery is included in every price and tracked to your door. Each product page says when that tent usually arrives, so check it before ordering for a set date.
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