There is something quite magical about a summer picnic and bringing the indoors outdoors. It’s a great way to spend quality time with family and friends and to relax and unwind. Whether held on the beach, at the park, or even your own backyard, a picnic provides you with a wall-less dining room with endless possibilities.
What to Pack
Without a doubt, the food steals the show at any great picnic. Everybody wants to know what’s under that gingham cloth or inside the basket! The key is choosing foods that are not only easy to transport but are easy to eat away from the convenience of a dining table. Here are some ideas for picnic-friendly foods and beverages to give you inspiration:
- Sandwiches with an assortment of fillings cut into bite-size squares or triangles
- Potato chips
- Wraps with an assortment of fillings
- Watermelon slices
- Chicken wings
- Meat and cheese platters
- Potato salad
- Coleslaw
- Pizza slices
- Donuts, and cookies
- Quiche
- Lemonade
- Fruit juice and sparkling water
How to Pack
After you’ve carefully prepped a selection of delicious food, don’t let all that hard work go to waste with poor packing or missing picnic supplies. A good quality cooler or picnic basket and some study containers will ensure that your picnic stays looking and tasting its best when you arrive at your chosen spot. Oh, and it’s only when you plan a picnic that you realize you can never have too much Tupperware!
Here are some packing ideas to ensure your food stays intact, easy to eat and absolutely delicious:
- Make sure you factor in the temperature outside when packing your picnic, especially on very hot days. Use ice packs to keep your picnic foods fresh and cool. Put the most perishable items closer to the ice packs.
- If you are short on space and want to avoid taking cutlery, add some cocktail sticks into your bag. These are incredibly space efficient and will allow people to pick up olives, cheese, meats, and other foods with ease.
- Plan for an efficient clean-up by planning ahead and packing a few trash can liners. Empty sandwich bags are also perfect for transporting leftovers.
- Don’t forget the essentials, such as a picnic blanket, cups, plates, and cutlery if you really need it. Add a touch of luxury with the addition of cloth napkins.
Finally, Don’t Put Up With Uninvited Guests!
One of the problems with eating outside is that wasps and other insects can often be attracted to your picnic food. That doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun or avoid packing certain foods.
A good bug repellent will ensure that insects are kept at bay and you have a perfect picnic. Wiley’s is currently offering 20% OFF of all insect repellent in-store. Don’t let insects ruin a great day. Pop in and see us today.