The Top 60 Small Backyard Patio Ideas
You look out of the window into your backyard and wish for something better. It’s small, but you want to make it into a livable space. Maybe you could turn the patio into an outdoor lounge. Or you could have an outdoor kitchen.
A small patio can still serve you well despite the lack of square footage. You just need to scale down your furniture and be strategic with your design. So why not check these small backyard patio ideas out and do something about your depressing backyard patio?
1. Low Cost Small Backyard Patio Ideas
You don’t have to hire a contractor to come in and transform your small patio. You can DIY the project and have a low-cost backyard makeover. With minimal investment, you can enjoy a beautiful outdoor space.
Source: @awna__oh via Instagram
Source: @blushingbungalow via Instagram
Source: @deb_at_no_70 via Instagram
Source: @funsizevintagehome via Instagram
Source: @inside_number_14 via Instagram
Source: @ramseyresidence via Instagram
Source: @theonebespoke via Instagram
Source: @thepinkfrontdoor via Instagram
If you have a concrete patio, try covering it in Astroturf. The fake grass will look lush green year-round, hide the ugly concrete, and create a comfortable base for your outdoor living space. Other popular small patio ideas are to paint, tile, or stain your concrete. Then you can lay an outdoor rug down and give the space a living room feel.
If you don’t have concrete, then consider using pea gravel. You can tear out the bits of grass, level the ground, lay down landscape fabric, and then spread out the gravel. It’s simple, modern, and easy to care for.
2. Gazebo or Pergola Small Backyard Patio Ideas
Just because you have a small outdoor patio doesn’t mean the sun doesn’t make it unbearable to be out there. If you avoid using your backyard because there’s no shade or coverage, then why not construct a gazebo or pergola? Then you’ll have a covered patio that you can enjoy throughout the year.
Source: @adriennerogerscolor via Instagram
Source: @balmesjamesonjr via Instagram
Source: @barnestowers via Instagram
Source: @houseofniina via Instagram
Source: @jenniferwildingg_ via Instagram
Source: @mydecoimages via Instagram
Source: @o.s_myhomedesign via Instagram
Source: @swiftcohome via Instagram
Source: @triveras_brightwoodlife via Instagram
Pergolas are popular in backyard patio ideas because you can easily scale them to fit the space. A small patio may only need a simple kit that you can build yourself. There are simple ones that are made of wood. Others are fancier and use metal, composites, and concrete.
You could even have the top of the pergola be movable so that you can change the angle of the overhead beams as the sun moves across the sky.
3. Simple Small Backyard Patio Ideas
Having a small patio means you don’t have to go all out to have a beautiful space. Several outdoor patio ideas are full of furniture, plants, and decor. This can make a small backyard patio look overly styled. For some, it will look messy and cluttered.
Source: @arnett_outdoordesign via Instagram
Source: @doxyinterior via Instagram
Source: @montfland via Instagram
Source: @simplewithahintofsparkle via Instagram
Source: @smilecrescent via Instagram
Source: @teaandtapemeasure via Instagram
Source: @thebamhouse via Instagram
Take a pass on all of these overly manicured and meticulously curated patios and look for some simpler small backyard ideas. You could have a few potted plants around a cafe table and a pair of chairs.
Or you could place two love seats across from each other with a coffee table in the middle. For the tiny patio, mount a fold-out table on the wall and place four barstools around it. Now you have an instant pop-out bar.
4. Patio Furniture for Small Backyard Patios
When choosing your outdoor furniture, it needs to fit the space. Scale the size of the furniture to be smaller so that it doesn’t overpower your patio. You want to be able to easily walk around your seating area. Look for furniture that has a more open-frame design and is on legs. This will keep the space feeling more open and airy.
Source: @adornedsouthernhome via Instagram
Source: @big_e_deluxe via Instagram
Source: @blansce via Instagram
Source: @blossom_home_interior via Instagram
Source: @forevergreyhome via Instagram
Source: @keep_things_simple via Instagram
Source: @modafurnishings via Instagram
Source: @radical_botanical via Instagram
Source: @the_view_at_number_3 via Instagram
Source: @vandenberglandscapes via Instagram
Take this same approach with your potted plants. Scale the size of the pots to fit the space you plan to put them in. Instead of choosing a stout and wide planter, you could pick something that’s tall and narrow. This takes up less room and also adds height, which are both beneficial to your patio.
5. Modern Small Backyard Patio Ideas
A modern approach to your small backyard means turning it into a usable space. You could upgrade your barbecue grill and build an entire outdoor kitchen. You could then cook, eat, and entertain without ever going inside. This backyard design requires you to tap into the plumbing and electrical for your home.
Source: @fossil_landscapes via Instagram
Source: @the_wooden_hill via Instagram
Another option is to create a backyard garden that is peaceful. Your small yard will become your mental escape from the stresses of the world. Plant tall trees and bushes and other plants with large leaves. This will drown out the sound noise.
Then add smaller colorful plants that will attract butterflies and birds. Add a small fountain or pond to create the gentle soundtrack of nature. Finish the space with a small sitting area that lets you enjoy the sounds of nature while finding peace of mind.
6. Paver Patios for Small Backyards
Using pavers, bricks, or stone to pave your outdoor spaces can get expensive quick. Thankfully, your patio is small, so you can build a paver or brick patio without breaking the bank. You could even choose something a bit more creative like flagstone and have an elegant stone patio.
Source: @ahousewren via Instagram
Source: @casacoluch via Instagram
Source: @creativedesignandmaintenance via Instagram
Source: @edge_of_barley via Instagram
Source: @outdoorartisan via Instagram
Source: @stonearchlandscapes via Instagram
Source: @thefontaineflat via Instagram
Source: @updatemycape via Instagram
Try using pavers or stone that are varying shades and sides. This will give your patio a design and visual interest. It will also help the space to look more upscale and custom. It’s best to have the professionals lay your pavers or stone. You’ll want it to last and be stable, which means you need to know the best methods for working with these materials.
7. Narrow Small Backyard Patio Ideas
If your patio is long and narrow, then you need to work with the space instead of trying to fight it. Instead of placing your standard patio table and chairs, look for a long and skinny one. Then build a bench seat mounted to the wall and have chairs on the other side. This reduces your width requirement. Another option is to have several cafe tables and chairs. These are smaller and require less room.
Source: @juliannapropertydesigns via Instagram
Source: @littleavonhouse via Instagram
Source: @s.l.f_home via Instagram
Consider hanging a hammock that runs the length of your patio. This is the perfect place to lounge out and relax with a good book. If a hammock isn’t your style, then build a long bench along the length of the patio. Place a patio cushion on it to make it more comfortable. Then you can have a small fire pit and chairs to complete the space.
8. Pools for Small Backyard Patios
Just because you have a small patio doesn’t mean you can’t have a pool or hot tub. Consider adding a small pool to your yard and creating a poolside patio. Your pool could be a wading style that’s perfect for cooling off in the hot summer months. A few feet deep with plenty of built-in seating would be perfect.
Source: @foxterradesign via Instagram
Source: @houseofbutterfield via Instagram
If you have a small patio but a large yard, then you could have a full-sized pool. Turn your small patio into an outdoor shower. Mount a shower head to the exterior of your home and make sure the water flows away from your house. You could even add a bamboo privacy screen to give the shower a bit more structure.
9. Fire Pits for Small Backyard Patios
What’s great about fire pits is that they come in so many styles and sizes, so you’re sure to find one that works with your yard. If you can’t find one that works, you can always build your own by getting inspired by stone patio ideas.
Source: @bijheleen via Instagram
Source: @findhomesweetazhome via Instagram
Source: @floralandpearls via Instagram
Source: @riviera32_gallerie via Instagram
When choosing your fire pit, start with the size. It needs to proportionally fit the space. This is so you can move around it easily while it’s lit, and it is large enough to provide adequate heat during colder months.
You should also consider how you will power it. Some fire pits are meant for use with logs, while others use propane. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the type you choose will depend on your preferences.
10. Lighting Ideas for Small Backyard Patios
Adding lighting to your small yard will create an atmosphere and give the space a pleasant ambiance. It will also allow you to get more use out of your backyard. The sun going down won’t stop you from enjoying your outdoor living space.
Source: @hannah.athome via Instagram
Source: @jade.doutch via Instagram
Source: @sixat21 via Instagram
Source: @theresa_gromski via Instagram
Source: @ulovelucy_rn via Instagram
The most popular option is to hang string lights. These are electrical cables that have large bulbs evenly spaced to give you a warm glow. You could hang them along your fence or string them above to illuminate the entire area. The more strings you add, the more light you’ll have. Be sure to buy outdoor-rated lights that will be durable. You may also need to mount tall posts in the ground to support the lights, as they can get heavy.
Another easier option is to add candles. This is an excellent alternative if you don’t have the ability to plug string lights in anywhere outside. Place large candle holders or lanterns around your small yard to give the space a romantic glow.
11. Small Backyard Patio Decking Ideas
All too often, a small backyard ends up turning into a dirt pit. Don’t feel bad if your yard looks like this. It’s hard to maintain a healthy lawn when it’s tiny in size. The solution is to rip out all of that dead and dying grass and build a deck. Because your yard is small, this is an affordable backyard idea.
Source: @layladudley via Instagram
Source: @this1983home via Instagram
Plan to cover the majority of the space with your deck to create an outdoor living space. Then you can turn it into an outdoor dining area. Or you could set up a firepit and place a couch or seating area in an L or U shape around it. Now you have an outdoor lounge spot that’s perfect for entertaining.
For a natural feel, you can build your deck out of wood. However, if you’re looking for a low maintenance option, consider using a composite. It’s a bit more expensive to install but will save you a ton in long-term maintenance. It also comes in a wide variety of colors, so you can customize the look of your deck.
Small Backyard Patio FAQs
Start by choosing an attractive material for the patio flooring. Create levels in your yard. Look for ways you can incorporate your surroundings or natural plant life. Try to frame the space and provide overhead coverage by erecting a pergola. Look for ways you can create a focal point in the space, similar to how you center your decor around a focal point in your home.
You could create a natural barrier out of plants. Grow bamboo, a large hedge, or a fence with a vining plant. Build an elegant privacy fence that will block the view of prying eyes. You could create a private enclave that’s a tucked-away corner in your yard. A pergola with hanging plants or vines will also provide you with privacy.
Scale your furniture and decor to the size of the space. This will help the space to feel comfortable and not sparse or cramped. Try to keep the yard feeling open so that it gives the illusion of being more spacious.
Where To Buy Art Online: 16 Awesome Stores
A home should represent a person’s personality. One of the very best ways to show off your personality is to have a home with some fantastic art. Even when you have the best furniture, lighting, and decor, no room is wholly complete without artwork. Before you can decide what artwork you want to buy, you need to identify your style.
Think carefully about what type of artwork you gravitate towards, as this will be an excellent indicator of your style preferences. Do you find yourself drawn to seaside watercolors, vintage caricatures, contemporary pieces, or abstract pieces? If you know what you like, you’ll have a better idea of what online art platform you should scope out.
The online art sites on our list are some of the best places you can buy art. We’ve rounded up 16 sites you should consider. At each of these sites, you’ll find unique pieces representing a broad range of artistic styles. Even those who have a smaller budget will likely find the perfect piece for their blank wall.
Additionally, you won’t have to leave your house as online art platforms make purchasing art more accessible than ever. Whether you’re interested in graphic paintings, pieces from up-and-coming artists, fan art, or vintage oil paintings, there’s something for everyone.
1. Artfinder
If you’re seeking authentic hand-crafted art pieces from little-known artists, you might want to have a look at the Artfinder online art website. Artfinder was founded in 2013 by a Swedish art enthusiast who had spent some time working in the prestigious New York art world.
Essentially this website is an online marketplace that advertises original and unique pieces of art from more than 10,000 international artists worldwide. The site conveniently sorts the more than 200,000 art pieces into categories of style and medium, making it easy to identify what you’re looking for.
Artfinder features abstract paintings, sculptures, photographic pieces, fine art prints, digital art, and collages. Additionally, art on this platform is quite affordable as pieces start at $25, but can go up to $65,000. Moreover, unlike other online art companies, Artfinder offers dedicated services for interior designers.
2. Fine Art America
The title for the world’s largest art marketplace and print-on-demand technology belongs to Fine Art America. This company was founded in 2006 in California and ever since has been providing an artistic avenue for illustrators, graphic designers, artists, and photographers.
Fine Art America specializes in print-on-demand art. They have 16 facilities capable of printing the artwork of more than 500,000 independent artists. When selecting artwork, potential clients can choose between wood prints, canvas prints, metal prints, framed prints, and many more.
One of the standout points for Fine Art America is that they also offer artwork that can be printed on pillows, tote bags, clothing, and tapestries. Additionally, unlike a few other online art marketplaces, Fine Art America allows artists to set their own prices for print-on-demand products.
3. Art.com
One of the easiest websites to buy art online at is Art.com. When you’re looking for prints of famous works, or if you’re looking to discover new art styles, this website might be the perfect starting point. Art.com was founded in 1998 in California and is one of the longest-running art platforms.
On the Art.com website, you can search for a particular artist or browse by subject, and you can filter the art pieces by price. If you fancy yourself an artist, you can have your own artwork sent to Art.com, where they can print and frame the photos for you.
Handcrafted framed artwork starts at $79, while large canvas prints start at $129. Additionally, Art.com offers free returns with their zero risk gifting policy, and they offer free design advice seven days a week with one of their art specialists.
4. One Kings Lane
If you’re looking for a one-stop online shop where you can purchase antiques, furniture, decor, and art, you should consider One Kings Lane. Founded in 2009, this company is a home decor business that deals in luxury outfittings. On their online platform, you’ll find a range of up-market styles that include designer and vintage pieces.
One Kings Lane has many quick ship art pieces available and mixed media, vintage reproductions, drawings, paintings, posters, and photographic pieces. These categories comprise more than 5,000 art pieces, and prices range from $45 to $30,000.
5. Saatchi Art
Saatchi Art is not just an online art retailer. They’re also an online art gallery that lets you explore artistic pieces by price point. If you’re looking for more high-end or fine art options that include original paintings, you might want to look at Saatchi Art. However, this company does offer a large selection of affordable prints for those who have a smaller budget.
Interestingly, the Saatchi Art site runs a complimentary art advisory service. This service provides potential clients with a team of curators that can build an art collection based on specific tastes or interior and exterior spaces.
There are more than one million available art pieces from more than 90,000 artists advertised on the platform that include photographic works, canvas prints, oil paintings, sculptures, and collages. Cheaper prints start at $50, and limited edition prints at $95, while some pieces such as sculptures can have a price of $50,000.
6. Etsy
One of the most popular places to buy awesome art online is Etsy. Etsy is a platform that offers not only incredible handmade and vintage art pieces but also thousands of home decor items. This site offers something for everyone, and art lovers can even commission pieces for their homes.
There are many framed and unframed print options, and they even have an instant download option with some art pieces depending on the vendor. The instant download option lets you print the art piece you are interested in as soon as you have purchased it.
Etsy has numerous style pieces that include black and white photographic images and bespoke oil paintings. There are thousands of independent artists and small businesses advertising their art wares at various price points, so it’s likely you’ll find an incredible piece for your home within your budget.
7. Society6
If you need to fill up large gallery walls or require numerous art pieces to give your home or office space character, you’ll want to look at the Society6 website. This online art platform offers an extensive range of affordable, quirky, colorful, and unique art pieces. Additionally, Society6 has a range of giant wall murals that are incredibly eye-catching and show-stopping.
The website features various art pieces from more than 300,000 independent artists and designers in more than 160 countries. At Society6, you can have prints supplanted on anything from clocks to pillows. The site has many categories, and you can find everything from minimalistic line drawings, cheeky sayings, abstracts, nature scenes, watercolor florals, prints, and tapestries.
Society6’s user interface is incredible. Customers can easily search by color, keyword, style, and artist. Additionally, most designs can be purchased unframed or framed. Prices start from as little as $20 for canvas prints, with the more expensive prints costing roughly $300.
8. Sotheby’s
One of the most popular go-to online consignment marketplaces for design enthusiasts eager to buy and sell antique art is Sotheby’s. Those with a mid-range budget will likely find a piece at this online store easily.
There’s a broad range of original art, sculptures, paintings, photographs, and vintage-related items such as posters and prints at Sotheby’s. The vintage-related items might not be one of a kind, but they’re definitely not easy to find elsewhere.
On the website, customers can easily find what they are looking for by filtering their search based on style, period of movement, and even condition. Starting prices for art at Sotheby’s are $150, but many pieces are upwards of $2,000.
9. 20×200
It’s often hard to come across affordable museum-quality art that is limited edition. Not everyone wants mass-produced art that can be found in thousands of people’s homes. Fortunately, there’s an online art company that offers limited edition art pieces that cannot be found anywhere else.
20×200 has an extensive range of modern photography pieces that are incredibly affordable. With more than 1,000 editions, you’re bound to find a photograph that catches your eye. Prices for the art on 20×200 start at $24 but can go as high as $10,000.
Interestingly, one of the most unique aspects of 20×200 is that they offer customers documentation on each piece that is bought. This documentation includes details about the artwork. Additionally, the website announces each launch with an informative description of the artist and project being exhibited.
10. 1st Dibs
The 1st Dibs online platform serves as a middleman and curator for artists and their amazing artwork. This platform is constantly seeking out and acquiring new art. Presently the site is a must-see and go-to destination for anyone looking for originals and copies.
1st Dibs is well known in the art world for hosting a large inventory of art from numerous reputable and established galleries. You’ll find art from contemporary specialists and old master dealers on this site. Most of the artwork displayed is available for purchase immediately, with prices varying between $50 and $2 million.
Additionally, 1st Dibs curated sales on their website is a great place to learn how different art forms can be mixed. It’s also a place where you can search for art by artists you may know.
11. Central & Grand
Should you want to fill your home or place of work with unique photographic pieces, you may want to consider buying artwork from Central & Grand. Each season the website adds new photographic art from 52 photographers. Currently, this website has print artwork from five seasons available for purchase framed or unframed.
Curiously, the photographic prints that are available come in two sizes. Customers can purchase 30 x 30 or 60 x 80 museum-quality prints. The photographers specifically mention that every image purchased is printed directly from the photographer’s master file. Additionally, each photograph is printed exclusively on Hahnemuhle 100% cotton photo rag Baryta paper. The pricing for the photo prints varies, but on average, a 30 x 30 image costs upwards of $2,000 depending on the canvassing and other design print options.
12. Poster Child Prints
Poster Child Prints is arguably one of the best places online to find limited edition and eccentric screen prints that are affordable. The company has a range of accessible artworks that are perfect for novice or seasoned collectors. Every piece the company sells is authenticated to guarantee its uniquely limited edition status.
Poster Child Prints doesn’t only offer limited edition prints. They also have photographic works, minimalistic line drawings, posters, tapestries, original artwork, and art pieces under $100. Unlike many other online art websites, Poster Child Prints have numerous interesting graffiti-style art pieces. Although most pieces featured are incredibly affordable, there are a few that are over $2,000.
13. Minted
Although Minted is well known for their photo gifts and holiday cards, they actually have a broad range of original artwork by many different artists. Much of the artwork featured on their website can be bought in many different sizing and framing options. Minted also offers a limited edition collection that only sells each artwork a few hundred times.
Minted offers customers a variety of different drawings, modern photographic pieces, and abstract watercolor prints. On the website, artists have their own landing pages with links and bios to all their art. Additionally, one of the best benefits for emerging artists on this site is that they can participate in a crowdsourcing system that will allow them to find a platform.
On this site, you can easily navigate it to find what you’re looking for. You can narrow your search by filtering by size, color, medium, style, and artist. Moreover, most pieces on offer are affordable, with the starting price for a print being $24, while most art is around the $100 mark.
14. Tappan Collective
Arguably the best online website where you can buy art from emerging artists is the Tappan Collective. The Tappan Collective was founded in 2012 by Jordan Klein and Chelsea Neman. This artistic platform aims to support and nurture emerging artists by connecting them with seasoned collectors.
The Tappan Collective features numerous different art forms such as ceramics, mixed media, sculptures, and large-scale paintings. Additionally, the Tappan Collective is not only an internet-based platform to sell artistic works. They are also curators that have curated many exhibitions in assorted spaces by different artists throughout Los Angeles.
The pricing for the artwork featured in the Tappan Collective varies greatly depending on the type you select. For example, some ceramic pieces are only $100, while large-scale prints can cost upwards of $10,000.
15. 1xRun
If you’re seeking one-of-a-kind or rare graffiti and streetwear vibe art, you should consider 1xRun. This website is one of the premier online art dealers for this type of art, yet they don’t only sell this style, as customers can find some lovely traditional art and modern photographic prints.
1xRun was founded in 2010 and has since expanded to become a global platform that ships internationally. Many aspiring and seasoned artists have their work featured on this Detroit Michigan based company’s website. Most of the artwork sold by 1xRun is affordable, with prices starting at $100.
16. Buy Some Damn Art
Finding affordable, quirky abstract art can be immensely challenging. Fortunately, the online art gallery Buy Some Damn Art provides funky original artwork that will suit anyone with eccentric or creative tastes.
Buy Some Damn Art was founded by Kate Singleton in 2010. She started the website with the aim for it to be an affordable art platform where emerging artists could showcase their works. Presently most of the creative works on the platform fall into the modern and fine art categories.
Additionally, the artworks on the website are sourced primarily from independent artists from the US and UK. However, a smaller minority of the artists are from further abroad.
See more about - The 10 Most Expensive Homes in America
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
The 12 Best Survival Food Kits For The Outdoor Man
Are you ready to roll when things go sideways? Maybe you want your family to be prepared in case of an earthquake, hurricane, or blizzard. Maybe you don’t want to be caught with your pants down next time there’s a global pandemic or a zombie outbreak.
In any case, you need to be prepared. A survival food kit is a great way to ready yourself for any disaster – natural or otherwise – that may befall you. You’ll be able to focus on other important tasks knowing that nutrition is covered.
All that being said, survival food kits really do come in handy in a lot of real-world scenarios. You can take them hiking or camping, or stock your hunting cabin so you don’t have to worry about food when you get out there this fall. Throw one in your truck in case you break down and have to spend a night somewhere.
There is, of course, a pretty wide range of quality when it comes to survival food. Some could almost pass for a home-cooked meal, while others taste more like warmed-over cardboard. And ultimately you might favor sacrificing taste in the name of convenience. Survival food, after all, is about survival, not savoring every bite.
You’ll find a host of options on this list, from the basic to the luxurious. Here’s to eating well in the end times!
Best Buy
1. ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply
This one will keep you going for a while! Containing 60 servings of meat with a 15-year shelf life, the ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply will have you well-stocked well into whatever apocalyptic scenario may come around.
In all seriousness, this is a great choice for anyone who wants to be prepared for an emergency/survival scenario. The whole Emergency Food Supply weighs just over 5 pounds and comes in a sealed plastic bucket; the individual portions within are more easily portable, should the need arise.
This particular product is ReadyWise’s somewhat comically named (but accurately named, it must be said) Meat Bucket. They also make a Vegetable Bucket and a Fruit Bucket, and it’s a good idea to get all three for a balanced diet.
The Meat Bucket contains 60 total servings of four different entrees: savory roast beef, Teriyaki chicken, Southwest style chicken, and cheesy beef. Twenty bonus servings of long-grain instant white rice are also included.
2. NuManna Emergency Survival Kit
For anyone in need of long-term emergency foodstuffs in larger quantities, the NuManna Emergency Survival Kit is a great option. While it isn’t cheap, it’s head-and-shoulders above many of its competitors when it comes to quality.
Inside this kit, you get a total of 20 pounds of freeze-dried rations. It includes several different dishes to cover every meal of the day, divided into 18 multi-serving individual packs.
The most surprising thing about it is that these meals are actually pretty tasty. Dishes include sweet habanero chili with pineapple, cheesy potato soup, rice pilaf, oatmeal with brown sugar, and others. The shelf life is at least 25 years.
The NuManna Emergency Survival Kit is something you can tuck away and rest assured that it will be there when you need it. NuManna also offers various other kits with different meal options.
3. Mountain House 3 Day Emergency Food Supply Kit
The Mountain House 3-Day Emergency Food Supply Kit is just as it sounds. Inside you’ll find enough freeze-dried meals to keep one person well-fed for three days. They’re pretty good meals too!
The package contains three breakfasts, three lunches, and three dinners, with some surprisingly appetizing options (sausage gravy and biscuits, chicken fried rice, beef stroganoff with noodles). To make each one, all you do is add hot water and wait 10 minutes.
This is a great thing to tuck away in your cabin or RV. You can also pick and choose individual meals to take with you on hiking and backpacking trips. Net weight is just over 2 lb, 7 oz.
One small strike against the Mountain House 3-Day Emergency Food Supply is its packaging. Each meal is in its own foil/plastic pouch, but they arrive loose in a cardboard box. Storing them that way does leave them vulnerable to pests or accidental puncture.
4. Xmre Blue Line Meals
Containing 12 complete meals, the XMRE Blue Line Meals case is made to feed you in any emergency. These are essentially military-style rations, each one already cooked and ready to eat right out of the package.
Each one of the XMRE Blue Line Meals provides 800 to 1,200 calories of balanced nutrition, including an entrée, two to three side items, and a beverage. No heating or refrigeration is needed; shelf life is three years with proper storage.
Spoons, napkins, a condiment kit, and an optional flameless ration heater (FRH) are also included. The whole kit and caboodle comes packed in a high-density water and tamper-proof outer bag, embossed with the pack date.
5. LaunchPro Emergency Survival Kit
If bare-bones survival is your style, the LaunchPro Emergency Survival Kit might be for you. It’s designed to provide your essential needs (hydration, nutrition, warmth) and nothing more. And you know what? There’s nothing wrong with that if that’s what you’re looking for.
The Emergency Survival Kit from LaunchPro contains three days’ worth of food and water for one person, plus a thermal blanket that makes it a well-rounded survival kit. One can imagine it being useful in a shipwreck-type scenario.
The food rations are essentially lemon-flavored energy bars, each delivering 400 calories. You get nine of them. The water is packaged in six pre-measured 4 oz airtight, sterilized packets. Shelf life: five years.
6. The Survival Tabs Emergency Food Supply
These are chocolate-flavored tablets packed with vitamins, and the Survival Tabs company has been making this Emergency Food Supply product since the 70s. You get five pouches, each containing 24 tablets with 20 calories each.
The big advantage here is portability. You can easily store packages of Survival Tabs wherever you want so they’re ready when you need them. They’re relatively lightweight, and ideal when you need to stay mobile.
It’s worth noting that these are not really meant to be your sole source of nutrition in the long term. Eating them for a day or two in an emergency will keep you going, but Survival Tabs are really best used to supplement another food source.
See more about - 10 Best Car Camping Essentials In 2021
7. NorthWest Fork Gluten-Free 30 Day Emergency Food
So, right off the bat, the NorthWest Fork 30 Day Emergency Food Supply is both gluten-free and entirely vegan. Some of you will love that. Others will have already moved on to the next item on our list. That’s totally fine.
This kit gives you 30 days’ worth of freeze-dried meals, all of which contain complete nutrition including plant-based protein. The 30 Day Emergency Food Supply includes 90 total meals, including strawberry oatmeal, green pea soup, and black bean chipotle stew.
The individual meal packets are great for backpacking. They stand on their own, making it easy to add hot water and eat straight out of the pouch. They’re also really nutritious and flavorful and have a 10-year shelf life.
8. AlpineAire Foods Ready Meal Kit
AlpineAire products tend to be marketed more toward campers and hikers than to the prepper and survivalist crowd. Even so, they’re really perfect for anyone who wants lightweight, easily portable freeze-dried meals with a long shelf life.
First and foremost, these are some of the best-tasting freeze-dried meals you can get. With the AlpineAire Foods Ready Meal Kit, you get options like three-cheese lasagna and chicken gumbo that are genuinely tasty.
The AlpineAire Foods Ready Meal Kit contains “28 servings” which could be a little misleading. It includes 14 meal packages, each of which is made up of two servings. Realistically, a person with a reasonable appetite is not going to want to make two meals out of each package.
9. S.O.S. Food Labs Ration Kit
The S.O.S. Food Labs Ration Kit is a well-rounded option that includes 12 portions of purified water, eight S.O.S Food Ration Bars, eight Millennium Energy Food Bars, and a book of survival tips. Each ration is bagged in a polymer-foil sachet with a five-year shelf life.
These tend to get put into a lot of people’s disaster-preparedness kits, and they’re great to have in the event of an earthquake or hurricane. That being said, if you’re looking for nutritious rations for camping or hiking, these fit the bill pretty well.
The S.O.S. Rations also taste surprisingly good, although the flavors get tiresome after a while. These are essentially 16 energy bars, and they’re quite sweet. It’s hard to imagine wanting to eat them for long periods of time.
10. Augason Farms 30 Day 1 Person Emergency Food Supply
A great option for long-term emergency sustenance, the Augason Farms 30 Day 1 Person Emergency Food Supply delivers on its promise to keep one person fed for a month. The meals are nutritious, and pretty tasty too.
This Emergency Food Supply includes freeze-dried entrees like macaroni and cheese and creamy potato soup, along with a powdered milk alternative beverage and banana chips for snacking. It all comes in a handy, watertight 8.5-gallon pail.
It’s Quality Survival Standards (QSS) certified and contains 307 Servings that provide an average of 1,854 calories per day. And with a shelf life of 25 years, the Augason Farms Emergency Food Supply can be safely stored until needed.
11. Patagonia Provisions Kit
Designed to feed two people for two days in the backcountry, the Patagonia Provisions Kit is made with weekend backpackers in mind. But this kit can come in handy in an emergency too.
One of the great advantages of the Patagonia Provisions Kit is that by only including enough food for a relatively short time, they’re able to put more into the quality. These are some genuinely delicious meals, with a healthy assortment of snacks thrown in.
Each meal can be made in 10 minutes or less by adding just hot water, and a cookbook is included with instructions on combining ingredients to create dishes like banana pancakes, or seafood paella. You will need a stove of some sort.
12. Sustain Supply Co. Premium Emergency Survival Bag
The Premium Emergency Survival Bag from Sustain Supply Co. is a handy kit containing a wide range of survival essentials in one convenient backpack. Just stow it somewhere safe, grab it when you need it, and you’re ready to roll.
This kit is meant to sustain two people for 72 hours following a disaster. To that end, it has potable water and food (in the form of freeze-dried meals) and a fully functioning backpacker’s stove with fuel for cooking.
What really makes this kit from Sustain Supply Co. stand out is that it also includes first aid supplies, a survival knife, lantern, fire starters, emergency blankets, signal whistles, sanitary wipes, and a water purification system. You’re basically all set.
See more about - Camping Essentials – Complete Guide To The Basics
Survival Food Kit FAQs
A survival food kit contains non-perishable, easy to prepare food to be eaten in case of an emergency. They are usually (but not always) packaged in an easily portable container, and individual portions may also be packaged separately.
The intended use of most survival food kits is emergency preparedness. You might get one to include in your go-bag in the event of a tornado, earthquake, or similar disaster, or you may carry emergency rations while traveling in case you get lost or have an accident. Some outdoorsmen may also take survival foods with them while camping or backpacking.
The actual contents of survival food kits vary widely. Freeze-dried meals are common, requiring only the addition of hot water to prepare. Some kits contain more complex meals, while some contain ready-to-eat military rations that need no cooking at all. Others may simply be nutrition-packed energy bars.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
The 12 Best Pairs of Dress Pants for Men in 2021
While you may think all dress pants are one and the same, we’re here to tell you that couldn’t be further from the truth – especially nowadays, as there’s a wide variety of styles, fits, cuts, and more when it comes to dress pants. From cotton-blend chinos and linen pants to cropped wool trousers and slim-fit khakis, there’s truly something for everyone in today’s day and age.
So whether you’re looking for a pair of dress pants that can take you from the office to happy hour, or a pair of trousers that will make you look like you stepped out of a business meeting straight onto the runway at fashion week, we’ve got you covered with the 12 best pair of dress pants for men.
Best Buy
1. Oliver Spencer Linen-Blend Canvas Trouser
There’s truly nothing better than a linen-blend trouser, and the Oliver Spencer Linen-Blend Canvas Trouser is the perfect lightweight pair of dress pants for warmer weather. These dress pants boast mismatched pockets for a unique, eye-catching detail from the back, have an elasticized mid-rise waist for all-day wear, and a relaxed fit for ultimate comfort.
Pair them with a white button down – short or long sleeve, depending on the occasion – and throw on a pair of loafers or Oxfords for a casual yet dressy look that’s perfect for attending a beach wedding, going to the office (if your dress code in on the casual side), or any event that requires smart casual attire.
2. Thom Browne Four-Bar Cotton Chino
The best thing about chinos is that they’re dress pants that are incredibly versatile, can be dressed up or down, and come in a variety of colors and styles. If you’re looking for an interesting spin on a classic pair of chinos, the Thom Browne Four-Bar Cotton Chinos should most definitely be on your radar.
Featuring four white bars across the left leg of the pants just above the knee, a design that “derives from the graphic patterns used on the sports uniforms of America’s Ivy League institutions,” these dress pants are sure to set you apart from the rest. Just be sure to check the dress code for whatever occasion you plan on wearing these bad boys too, as they err on the casual side.
3. UNIQLO Smart Ankle Pants
You can always count on UNIQLO for stylish clothes that don’t cost a fortune, and the UNIQLO Smart Ankle Pants are the perfect pair of dress pants that won’t break the bank, all while looking like you spent a pretty penny on your formal wear or business casual look.
These dress pants boast a hidden elastic waist for easy wear, hit right at the ankles as the name suggests, and come in three different colors – navy, black, and grey – so you can stock up on these dressy essentials for half the cost of some of the other dress pants on the market.
4. Bonobos Tailored Fit Stretch Washed Cotton Chinos
Slim fit dress pants are perfect for smart casual settings, so if you’re looking for a pair of dress pants that fit like a glove, the Bonobos Tailored Fit Stretch Washed Cotton Chinos will be a great addition to your wardrobe. These babies are fitted through the hip and thigh and slightly taper to the ankle, feature slant pockets and back welt pockets, and are made of 98% cotton and 2% spandex for ultra-comfortable, all-day wear that’ll take you from the office to happy hour in style.
Toss on a printed short sleeve button down for a laidback look. Roll these pants up at the ankle and pair them with suede Oxfords or boat shoes to polish off the entire outfit.
5. Lululemon ABC Pant Classic 34” Warpstreme
If you’re looking for a pair of dress pants that are comfortable and move with you, then the Lululemon ABC Pants Classic 34” Warpstreme is a wonderful option. Some of the highlights of these dress pants include four-way stretch and shape retention, and you won’t ever have to worry about creasing if you’re sitting in an office chair all day since they’re wrinkle-resistant.
These pants are also breathable and quick-drying, making them perfect for warmer temperatures. The best part? They come in a whopping 14 colors and are available in sizes 26-44, so you’re guaranteed to find your perfect pair of pants.
6. Polo Ralph Lauren Slim-Fit Stretch Cotton Trousers
There’s nothing more classic than a pair of khaki trousers, and the Polo Ralph Lauren Slim-Fit Stretch Cotton Trousers are an essential pair of dress pants that should already be hanging in your closet, so if you don’t have a pair, now’s the time to grab one!
Made from a mid-cotton blend with a hint of stretch to hold the shape and to optimize all-day comfort, these neutral trousers are a building block for any smart casual wardrobe. Dress them up with a classic, crisp white button down, a navy blazer or sport coat, and leather brogues, or wear ‘em with a plain white t-shirt and some loafers for a more casual vibe.
See more about - The 10 Best Smart Casual Dress Shoes For Men In 2021
7. A.P.C. Massimo Cotton Twill Chino Trousers
If you’re on the hunt for a pair of dress pants that will make you stand out from the crowd in a subtle, cool way, then the A.P.C. Massimo Cotton Twill Chino Trousers, which come in a slate grey color, should be right up your alley.
Featuring a straight leg for a more relaxed fit, these trousers are perfect for those days when you want to be stylish and look put together, but also want to be as comfortable as you possibly can be. Wear them with a black button down shirt and black sneakers for a mysterious, edgy, and casual look.
8. Stone Island Logo-Patch Cotton Blend Cargo Trousers
When you think of cargo pants or shorts, the first thing that comes to mind is probably 20-something-year-old frat boys chugging beer bongs on Spring Break. However, if styled correctly, you can totally get away with wearing cargo pants in casual or smart casual settings.
The Stone Island Logo-Patch Cotton Blend Cargo Trousers are cargo pants that don’t necessarily scream “check out my extra pockets” thanks to the monotone dark grey color. Made from a stretch cotton blend, these trousers are perfect for all-day wear and look best when paired with similar dark grey colors for a totally minimalist and streamlined look.
9. Orlebar Brown Brewer Drawstring-Waist Cotton Trousers
If you’re on the hunt for a pair of dress pants that are perfect for a day on the boat or at brunch, then you’re gonna flip when you see the Orlebar Brown Brewer Drawstring-Waist Cotton Trousers, which come in a crisp white and give off maximum sun and summertime vibes.
These resort-style cotton trousers feature a drawstring waist for maximum comfort and have a straight-leg relaxed fit, and will look amazing with a funky printed Hawaiian shirt, boat shoes, and a Mai Tai.
10. Rag & Bone Flynt Nylon-Blend Trousers
While some dress pants may have a reputation for being stuffy and uncomfortable, you don’t have to worry about that with the Rag & Bone Flynt Nylon-Based Trousers, thanks to their cotton and nylon blend, which makes them ultra-breathable, as well as water-resistant.
These trousers are also some of the most comfortable around, as they boast an elasticized waistband for maximum comfort, along with relaxed legs that taper toward adjustable cuffs – perfect for warmer temperatures and smart casual, outdoor settings. Throw on a plain tee and some leather or suede desert boots for a cool and casual vibe, and top with a bomber jacket if the temperatures dip.
11. Acne Studios Cropped Wool-Blend Trousers
If you’re in the market for a pair of trousers that are more on the dressy side, the Acne Studio Cropped Wool-Blend Trousers should be in your online shopping cart, like, now. Featuring a high waist and cropped leg that hits above the ankle, these trousers are the perfect way to give your formalwear a bit of an edge.
Wear with leather boots and a cashmere sweater with a button down underneath for a fashionable twist on formalwear, and make sure you don’t throw these pants in the wash – get them dry cleaned (you’ll thank us later).
12. Sunspel Neut Tapered-Leg Trousers
You can never have too many pairs of khaki dress pants to choose from in your closet, and the Sunspel Neut Tapered-Leg Trousers are the perfect staple to add to your wardrobe. Made from lightweight, comfortable stretch cotton, these dress pants have dart detailing at the waist, two side pockets and back welt pockets, and are tapered at the leg for a fitted, yet comfortable and relaxed feel. Wear a printed button down in a fun pattern to liven up the khaki color, or stay neutral and go with a crisp white button down.
See more about - Smart Casual Dress Code For Men – The Ultimate Guide
Dress Pants FAQs
Dress pants come in a wide variety of styles, but essentially, dress pants are pants that can be worn in semi-formal, smart casual, business casual, or formal occasions, depending on the cut, fabric, and style of the pants.
Dress pants can be made from a plethora of materials, including cotton, wool, linen, twill, and more. Typically, dress pants that are considered on the formal side are made from wool or a wool blend, while more casual dress pants, like chinos, are typically made from cotton, linen, or a cotton blend.
What you should look for in dress pants depends on the style you’re going for, the occasion you’re dressing for, and more. If you’re looking for a pair of dress pants that you can wear to casual events or occasions, then stick to light, breathable materials with a little bit of stretch. You can also play around with color and fit in more casual settings, so you have a bit more freedom when it comes to choosing the right pair of dress pants for a casual occasion.
If you’re on the hunt for a pair of dress pants that are suited for more formal occasions, you want to make sure they’re fitted properly (i.e. not too tight) and are made from wool, linen, or some type of wool blend.
While dress pants can be worn for a variety of smart casual, semi-formal, and formal occasions, there’s really no need to wear dress pants to places like the gym, around the house, running errands, etc. – save your casual wear, like jeans, joggers, athletic shorts, and cotton shorts for those tasks.
