Going on a Picnic

It is time to pull out your picnic basket and prepare for an enjoyable day out. There are lots of different items to think about packing to ensure that your picnic is a success. See below for some really helpful suggestions and ideas before you go on your picnic.

Items to consider:

The items you pack in your picnic basket really does depend on the type of picnic you are going to have and the different foods you are going to take on your picnic. Careful planning and packing can make all the difference in having an enjoyable time.

Picnic Basket

There are a lot of different types of picnic baskets and hampers to choose from. The popular wicker basket is perfect for carrying all your plates, cutlery, glasses as well as most of your foods and drinks. Once you have filled your basket it becomes very heavy so do keep the weight of your basket in mind when filling it.

Depending on the location of your picnic you may want to consider a picnic basket or cooler with wheels. You don’t want to be exhausted from carrying your picnic to its location. Even better is to take along your radio flyer wagon. Depending on the size of your wagon you may be able to tote your picnic basket along with your blanket, chairs, and umbrella, cooler and any other items you have decided to take.

Blankets/Throws/Tablecloth

You will want to take a blanket or throw with you on your picnic unless your picnic is going to be held around tables of some sort. The best picnic blankets are the ones that have a plastic or vinyl backing and a cloth top side. You may choose to pack a tablecloth if you are going to a spot where you are going to use picnic tables.

Blanket weights

The easiest and most practical way to hold down the corners of your blanket on a windy day is to use your picnic basket and any other heavy items you carried with you to your picnic spot. An alternative is to find some big rocks, stones or objects in the picnic area to hold down the corners of you blanket as you really want to carry as little as possible to cut down on the weight.

Backpacks/Rucksacks

Backpacks or rucksacks are great for helping to carry some of the items that you are taking for your picnic as the weight of the backpack is evenly distributed. Carrier bags start to cut into your hands if they are heavy and shoulder bags put a lot of pressure on your shoulder. The different types of bags all depend on how far you are planning to walk before you stop to set up camp and how heavy the bags are.

Cutlery

Cutlery can be very essential depending on the different types of foods and drinks you choose to serve at your picnic. Also, which do you prefer to use - plastic or metal cutlery? Bear in mind that a lot of things will end up in your trash bag for throwing away and if you choose metal cutlery it may find its way in the rubbish sack.

Items to consider for packing are; knives, forks, spoons, cork opener, veggie peeler and bottle opener

Drinking Glasses/Cups

If you pack wine, champagne, mixed drinks, bottled beer and/or large drinks bottles then you will need to have the proper drinking vessel. Ideally it is best if your take plastic for several reasons – lighter in weight and also no broken glass to worry with.

Plates/Bowls

Ceramic plates and bowls can weigh you down and are breakable. If the foods you are having require the above you may want to consider using plastic or paper and then they can be discarded in the rubbish bin after use.

Napkins/Paper Towels

Serviettes are very handy to have for several reasons. Messy hands and spills always require a clean up.

Trash bags

Be sure to pack a bag or two to collect all your rubbish and leftovers. Don’t leave behind any litter; take away all your belongings when you leave the site.

Wet Wipes

Wipes always come in handy, especially when you have little ones.

Ice

You may consider taking along some ice and/or ice packs. If you can, chill or freeze cold drinks so that there is no need to supply ice. Ice packs are good to help keep your foods chilled. If it is a really hot day, find some shade and place your cooler chest there until you are ready to eat.

First Aid Kit

Pack a small first aid kit for the types of incidents that you think you may encounter during your day out.

Band-aids, antiseptic crème, insect sting spray, insect repellent, sun block,

Outside Elements

Some other items to consider taking with you on your outing are sun glasses, sun hats, insect repellent, jacket, sweater and plenty of water.

Entertainment

Games – Frisbees are always great fun during a picnic. All sorts of ball games are good to bear in mind (kickball, volleyball, softball, football). Horseshoes, crochet and bikes are just a few others to consider

Reading material – you may be looking forward to some real down time and peace and quite. Newspapers, puzzle books, novels, or even course study material are some good reading and chill out time occupiers

Parasol/Umbrella

If you do not want to be in the bright sunlight you may consider packing a small parasol or umbrella to help keep out of the sunshine. If you have a baby or small children it is a good idea to take a brolly with you as you may not be guaranteed a shady tree.

Deck Chairs

Deck chairs, sun chairs are nice to have if you find it difficult to get down to the ground level and/or get up from the ground.

Location

Some great locations to think about having your picnic are - in a Meadow, in a Park, in the Mountains, in your Backyard/Garden and by the Seaside.

Look for an area that is flat with grass. If you have little children you may require a spot in the shade. If you set up under a tree you will need to move any broken branches, twigs, pine cones or any other debris before laying your blanket.

Tip:  Keeping a picnic simple makes it enjoyable!!!