Whether you’re dining on the beach, in the park or in the backyard, any change of scenery is welcome these days. Picnics are a great way to spend your lockdown days, especially now that the weather is beginning to warm up! There can be a lot more to a fun picnic than just packing up your lunch and heading outside. Why not make the most of it, right?! We’ve come up with the ultimate picnic guide to help you plan an exciting outdoor afternoon, whether it’s for two people or twenty people (post-covid of course). So dust off that gingham blanket and wicker basket and get ready for some fun in the sun!
See Also: 10 Essential Day Trips From Toronto to Experience Now
Check Out Our Picnicking Tips In This Ultimate Picnic Guide!
Keep It Comfy
If we’re being honest, we know sometimes sitting on the ground for an extended period of time isn’t the most comfortable activity, even when you’re on a blanket. Packing light is always best for a picnic but if you’ve got the space, throw in a few small pillows as well. Sunscreen, hats and bug spray are also never a bad idea when heading outside for the day.
Packing The Food
The most important part of any picnic is the food of course! Keep the menu simple and easy to eat by avoiding anything messy; eating a rack of BBQ ribs in the park probably won’t be the most enjoyable time. Great picnic food doesn’t need to be complicated. Think charcuterie type foods like cheese, baguette, meats and fruit. Finger foods like sandwiches, crackers and dips make the perfect picnic snacks. Don’t forget plenty of water if you’ll be in the sun all day!
Other Essentials
Don’t forget the plates, utensils and/or napkins or you’ll have nothing to eat with when you arrive! If you’ve got to go disposable then consider something made of bamboo or other biodegradable materials. It’s best not to bring along any glassware to avoid breaking anything. Pack a cutting board and knife if you need to cut anything up fresh. Bring along a few garbage bags and always make sure to pick up after yourself!
The Basket
What’s a picnic guide without mention of a basket? Nothing sets the cute picnic scene like an adorable wicker basket! They come in all shapes and sizes so finding one to fit your needs will be a breeze. Some even come with place settings like this one from Bed Bath and Beyond. If you are travelling a further distance for your picnic you may need to bring an insulated cooler along as well. Make sure to pack your baskets and coolers in reverse order to make it easy to get to the items you need when you arrive at the site. Start with your nonperishable food items and drinks on the bottom followed by your serving utensils and plates and then the blanket on top!
Bring Activities
Even exciting conversation can filter out after a while and you do not want to be stuck without anything to do after you finish your lunch. Bring along a few activities like a good book, a ball to throw around, a deck of cards or a colouring book (adult or otherwise). This will make your day much more enjoyable and will ensure no one gets bored and is ready to head home after the meal!
