Picnics are enjoyable since they allow you to take your party on the road, away from home. But that also makes it difficult. You won’t be able to run inside to get the corkscrew or cheese knife for cutting the wedge of brie because you’ll be unable to dash into your home. However, if you’re prepared and use a list, your picnic will provide a welcome contrast to your dining room, restaurant, or own backyard. Here are some things to pack for your next picnic if you want ideas.
A Picnic Basket, Tote, Hamper, Cooler, or Backpack
Whatever you call it and whatever style you select, you’ll need something to carry the food, beverages, and place settings. A conventional picnic basket is lovely if your picnic food isn’t perishable and if you will be driving your car close to the picnic spot. If you’re going deep into the woods for an afternoon adventure, a backpack-style picnic carrier may be easier. And if you’re bringing enough food and beverages to keep cold until served, a cooler would be ideal for your needs.
A Picnic Blanket
Unless you’re having your picnic in a location with picnic tables ready and waiting, bring a blanket to spread out your food as well as a seat. In an emergency, any blanket will suffice, as will an ancient comforter, tablecloth, or even flat bed sheet. A waterproof surface is located on one side of dedicated picnic blankets to assist keep you dry when the grass or sand is wet.
Plates, Utensils, Glasses, and Napkins
Just take the peanut butter and jelly sandwich out of its little plastic bag and wipe your hands on your pants. However, if you want to make your picnic more unique, prepare a decent table setting. Your place settings may be as basic as disposable plates, glasses, silverware, and paper napkins or as elegant as best china, crystal, silverware, and linen for wherever you’re having your picnic. Pack things carefully to avoid breakage.
Corkscrew or Bottle Opener
If you forget to bring these items, you will curse the day you packed your picnic away from the backyard. If your picnic includes a bottle of wine, sparkling water, or any other drink that needs more than your bare hands to uncork, remember to pack a corkscrew.
Cutting Board and Knife
Pack a cheese, salami, charcuterie, fruit, vegetables, or bread on a cutting board and knife. Prepare sandwiches on the go using a new method. You won’t have soggy bread, and you’ll only need to chill the perishable ingredients instead of the entire sandwich this way.
Ice Packs or Thermos
Keep your picnic goodies safe by packing them with enough ice to keep them cold until served. If you’re bringing hot food to a picnic, use a thermos to keep it at or above 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Every temperature range between 40 and140 degrees Fahrenheit is in the danger zone where germs can grow and cause food poisoning.
Trash Bags
If you’re on a picnic without a trash can, bring trash bags with you to collect any food waste or disposable goods. Bring a plastic bag for your filthy dishes and glasses so that your lovely picnic basket does not get dirty.
Paper Towels or Wipes
If you plan on using a picnic table, clean it with paper towels or wipes first, and then wipe your hands before and after eating.
Atmosphere
While planning a picnic, remember that an adequate ambience may be present at your destination, yet if you want to make it more romantic, bring flowers, candles, and a lighter. To begin with, check for fire restrictions in the park or natural area to ensure your safety and the environment. Even a tiny flame as little as a candle or cigarette might cause a brush fire or forest blaze. If you do use candles while camping, be cautious not to let the flame escape and ensure that it is completely extinguished before packing up to leave.
