Picnics are a great way to enjoy nature, soak up the sun and spend quality time outdoors with your loved ones. Whether planning a romantic picnic with your partner or a fun-filled day out with friends, ensuring you have all the outdoor essentials packed is important. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to bring for the perfect picnic, from food and drinks to utensils and games.
What to Bring to a Picnic – The Essentials
To ensure your picnic is a success, make sure you bring these outdoor essentials:
Picnic Basket, Cooler or Esky
The first and most important thing to bring is a picnic basket or cooler to keep your food and drinks fresh and organised. Make sure it’s big enough to fit everything you need.
Picnic Rug or Blanket
A picnic rug or blanket is a must-have. Choose a durable, waterproof one that’s big enough for everyone to sit on comfortably.
Portable Table
If you prefer a more formal setting, bring a tablecloth and a small table to set up your picnic.
Utensils and Plates
Bring utensils and plates, including forks, knives, spoons, and paper or plastic plates. If you plan a fancier picnic, consider bringing reusable utensils and dishes.
Cups and Glasses
Bring cups and glasses for drinks. Plastic cups are a good option as they are lightweight and won’t break.
Napkins and Paper Towels
Bring napkins and paper towels to clean up spills and messes.
Sun Protection
When you’re outdoors, protecting yourself from the sun’s harmful rays is essential, especially under the Australian sun. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect yourself and your guests from sunburn. You can also bring an umbrella or shade tent to provide extra protection.
Insect Repellent
No one wants to spend their picnic swatting away pesky insects. Bring insect repellent to keep bugs at bay, especially if you picnic near water or in an area near the bush.
First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen, even on a leisurely picnic. Be prepared by bringing a small first aid kit. It should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any other medications that you or your guests might need.
What to Pack for a Picnic – Food and Drinks
Now that you have the essentials covered, it’s time to pack some delicious food and drinks. Here are some ideas:
Sandwiches
Sandwiches are a classic picnic food. Choose your favourite fillings and pack them in airtight containers.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables are a healthy and refreshing option. Cut them up and store them in containers.
Snacks
Pack some snacks like crackers, chips, and nuts. They’re easy to eat and will keep everyone satisfied.
Beverages
Remember to bring drinks! Water, juice, and soda are all good options. For adult picnics, consider getting wine, beer or a little bit of bubbly. Please check local laws and restrictions if you picnic in an alcohol-free zone.
Desserts
End your picnic on a sweet note with delicious desserts like cookies or brownies. Maybe you could try out some of these Easy Easter cakes to delight your kids!
What Do You Need for a Picnic – Entertainment
Apart from food and drinks, you’ll need entertainment options to keep everyone busy. Here are some ideas:
Board Games
Pack some board games to keep everyone entertained. Classics like Monopoly, Scrabble, and Chess are great options.
Frisbee or Football
Bring a Frisbee or football to play a few pickup games.
Books
Bring a book or two to read for a relaxing and peaceful picnic.
Music
Create a playlist or bring a portable speaker to listen to music and set the mood.
Outdoor Essentials For Your Picnic
A perfect picnic is a fun and exciting activity for all ages. But with that comes preparation and organisation, from selecting the ideal location to packing the outdoor essentials like food and drinks or sun protection. Remember to bring a comfortable blanket or chairs, utensils, plates, and cups, and consider the weather and temperature to ensure you have everything you need to enjoy your day out.
At the end of the day, the perfect picnic is about making memories and enjoying quality time with friends and family. By following the tips and tricks in this article, you can make your next picnic successful and create unforgettable moments that will last a lifetime.
Picnic FAQs
Can I bring my grill to a picnic?
It depends on the location of your picnic. Some picnic areas have designated grilling areas, while others do not. Check with the park or where you plan to picnic to determine if a grill is allowed.
What should I do with leftover food after the picnic?
Make sure to dispose of it properly. Pack it in airtight containers and throw it away in the trash.
Can I bring my pets to a picnic?
It depends on the location and rules. Some parks allow pets, but others don’t. Make sure to check beforehand.
Q: How many blankets should I bring for a picnic?
A: It depends on the number of people attending your picnic. Make sure you bring enough blankets to accommodate everyone.
Can I bring alcohol to a picnic?
You should check local laws and regulations before bringing alcohol to a picnic.
