Nothing is so relaxed and joyful as a picnic in the garden, by the beach or in the park with your family or friends. Getting out of the door with all necessities can be quite a challenge, but with this list, you're sure to remember everything you'll need.
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 hamper
- backpack
Picnic blanket
The first thing that you do when you have found a nice spot is laying out the picnic blanket. Make sure that it is big enough for everyone to sit comfortably, or to be on the safe side, bring more than just one.
If the ground is cold or a little damp, 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'll 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
- Travel mug
- Cutting board
- Corkscrew and bottle opener
- Cutting knife
- Napkins
- Tea towels
- Salt and pepper
- Trash 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
- Sun cream
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Wipes
- Hand sanitiser
Ideas for picnic dishes and drinks
On a picnic you'll need 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
Also see our Beach packing list
