Nothing is more relaxing and joyful than a picnic in the garden, by the beach, or in the park with your family or friends. Knowing what exactly to bring on a picnic can be quite a challenge, but with this list, you are sure to remember all your essentials for a great day out!
1. Picnic bag
You need a nice and practical way of transporting all the different things for the picnic. You can either use a
- beach bag
- trolley
- picnic basket
- backpack
Picnic blanket
The first thing that you do when you have found a nice spot is spreading out the picnic blanket. Make sure that it is big enough for everyone to sit comfortably on, or to be on the safe side why not bring more than just one.
If the ground is cold or a little moist, bring a roll mat as an extra layer between the ground and the picnic blanket. If you like a bit of luxury, bring camping chairs and possibly a folding table
- Picnic blanket
- Roll mat
- Quilted blanket
- Camping chairs
- Folding table
3. Cool bags and ice packs for coolers
You want to keep your picnic dishes and beverages cool until you are ready to eat.
- Cool bags
- Ice packs for coolers
4. Tableware, thermoses, drinking bottles
On a picnic, you don’t want your tableware too fragile. Bring paper plates or even better, reusable plastic plates, cups and bowls. Also remember:
- Cutlery
- Drinking bottles
- Thermos
- Cutting board
- Corkscrew and bottle opener
- Cutting knife
- Napkins
- Tea towels
- Salt and pepper
- Bin bags
5. Make the picnic a bit more pleasant
If the sun is shining, bring a small parasol or some mini fans. If it gets dark sooner than you are ready to head home, a solar sting light can prolong your stay.
- Parasol
- Mini fan
- String lights
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Wipes
- Hand sanitizer
Ideas for picnic dishes and drinks
On a picnic you want the food that travels well. Different types of finger food and one or two salads will delight your guest and keep them full. Be inspired by these ideas and put together your own picnic menu:
- Potato salad
- Samosas
- Sandwiches
- Pasta salad
- Meatballs
- Pre-cut fruit and veggies
- Wraps
- Mini pizzas
- Condiments, hummus or pesto
- Chicken skewers
- Mini pies
- Cookies
- Coffee
- Water
Do you have a delicious picnic recipe? Share it with us in the comments! Also see our Beach packing list.