5 Canadian Picnic Essentials For One Last Summer Hurrah

Summer isn’t over just yet (cue Taylor Swift’s August), there are still a few sunny weeks left to lay out a blanket and savour snacks under the sky. If you’re planning a picnic, here are a few Canadian-made must-haves to make it feel like a spread worth lingering over. —Vicki Duong

kilne cutting board set. Canadian brand Kilne keeps things simple with its thoughtfully designed set ($145). Made from solid acacia wood, the boards are durable, lightweight, and naturally antibacterial. Bonus: the grooves are a handy touch to catch any runaway juices, and when you’re done chopping, they’re stylish enough to double as serving boards for appys or charcuterie.

nice cans smoked sardines. Nice Cans makes sardines feel anything but old school. With flavours like tomatoes and peppers, rosemary and fennel pepper, and organic olive oil with sea salt, this Canadian brand pairs quality fish with quality ingredients. The tins ($9.99 each) themselves are just as fun; cheeky, colourful, and downright chic.

tocha spiced sauce. Bottled right here in Vancouver, Tocha’s is all about big flavour without overwhelming heat. Branded as “spiced sauces” rather than hot sauces, they’re perfect for anyone who wants a little kick without going overboard. There are three flavours ($12 each): the Original, with Roma tomatoes, caramelised onion, and Fresno peppers; the Verde, a pineapple base lifted with tamarind, lime, jalapeño, and Anaheim peppers; and the Yuzu, a citrusy mix of real yuzu, peaches, and umami miso.

tofino towel co. A picnic blanket is a non-negotiable when it comes to comfort, and Tofino Towel Co.’s blanket ($95) is one you’ll actually want to bring along. Made from recycled materials, it’s both water and sand resistant, easy to clean, and packs down with a shoulder strap for easy carrying. 

roam the brand. Nothing kills the vibe of a picnic or patio hang faster than bugs, but Roam’s Wild candle ($36) is here to help. Made with lemon eucalyptus, citronella, and cedarwood essential oils, this natural candle wards off pests while its cackling wooden wick adds a cozy ambiance.