3 Things to Know About Reflective Picnic Blankets

Choose a blanket with a silver-coated reflective underside A reflective layer bounces the sun’s heat away rather than absorbing it, keeping the ground temperature surprisingly reasonable. Light-colored cotton or tight polyester works okay in a pinch, but reflective blankets do the best job.

Avoid fleece, dark colors, and thick cotton These materials soak up solar energy like a black car on asphalt. They will make you and your back hot and uncomfortable.

Reflective blankets are thin and pack small They fold up tiny and cost around $15 to $20 online. Your back will thank you for the cooler surface.