5 Picnic Essentials To Try This Summer

Summer is in full swing. The kids are on vacation and you may be out relaxing with your loved ones. Our favourite way to celebrate with family and friends is to plan a special picnic where we can enjoy nature and share some great food. Here are 5 top picnic ideas to try this summer.

1. The Socially Distant Picnic

You haven’t seen your friends in a very long time – thanks Covid – but this doesn’t mean you need to step into a new year all alone. Why not plan a small picnic with a few close friends or family in a public space where you can socially distance and still enjoy the company! Don’t forget to pack your masks, sanitizers and ensure that the venue is open for picnics in small groups.

2. Plan Your Dishes

Food is essential to that picnic feeling! So, start off by planning ahead and choose foods that do well outside. Finger foods are often best for an outdoor picnic. Opt for a variety of healthy snacks to make the most of your experience. Pre-packaged goods are usually best (especially during a pandemic where sharing isn’t the greatest choice). Alternatively, you could pre-portion meals ahead of time. To preserve crispness, pack your bread and crackers separately. Remember to pack in extra containers where you can store half-eaten goods and keep them away from critters.

3. Choose the perfect picnic basket

You’re gonna need the perfect storage basket once you have all your treats sorted. So, be sure to invest in a quality picnic basket – something that is easy to pack and easy to clean! Many modern varieties come complete with side plates, plastic cups and accessories.

Picnic Basket

4. Don’t forget the drinks

In our hot summer weather, it’s important to stay hydrated. So, let’s not forget to pack drinks. You could choose a smaller cooler bag or box to help keep your drinks cool. Buy extra bottled water or freeze your own plastic bottles of water ahead of time, which can double as make-shift ice packs in your cooler box or picnic basket!

5. Pack all the necessary gear

A summer picnic will require a picnic blanket, sunscreen, hats, lots of liquids and something fun for the kids to do – a ball, frisbee or game may be ideal. You may also want to pack a book or light reading material while you rest under the shade of a tree. But this year, part of your gear should also be cleaning supplies – buy wet wipes and alcohol-based hand cleaners to ensure your family stays safe while outdoors or in public.