Planning the Perfect Picnic

How to plan the perfect picnic - tips and food ideas

Picnicking has always been a great outdoor tradition, whether on the beach in the summertime or curled up under a warm blanket in the fall. Having a picnic is the perfect way to connect with friends and family, and share and create memories over a delicious meal. Just follow these tips and menu ideas to plan the perfect picnic for you and your loved ones.

Keep it simplepicnic recipes to choose from, or to get ideas for creating your own perfect picnic recipes.

Stay Organized. Create a 'menu list' before you pack and keep it on the refrigerator. Check off each item as you pack it to ensure that you do not forget an essential item. Pack the foods that are to be eaten last at the bottom of your cooler, basket or backpack so you do not have to unpack everything once you start the meal. Organization is key to planning the perfect picnic.

Be Prepared.Here is a list of items that you may want to have on hand for your picnic. These items can help make your picnic a more carefree, enjoyable experience:

• A fully loaded picnic basket, backpack, or cooler pack for carrying all food and equipment. There is a wide range of picnic sets available to meet anyone's needs - whether you are active and prefer the ease and comfort of a backpack, have a large group and need a cooler on wheels to do all the heavy carrying for you, or prefer the romantic tradition of picnic baskets. Pre-packed picnic sets usually come with all sorts of convenient amenities such as plates, flatware, cloth napkins, glasses, and insulated food compartments. Some even come with great extras like salt and pepper shakers, wine bottle openers, cheese knives & cutting boards, insulated coffee mugs and thermoses! It is little details like these that will make an unforgettable impression.
• A quality picnic blanket can make all the difference in your comfort while picnicking, and also serves as a barrier against insects. While you can use a tablecloth, quilt, or sheet, it is a good idea to have a portable picnic blanket that is ready to go at your whim. PicnicFun.com has a great selection of picnic blankets to fit your needs, including blankets with waterproof backing to protect you and your food from moisture.
• Ice or frozen blue 'cold packs' to keep your food and beverages at the right temperature
• Paper towels or, if you are going to have sticky food on hand, pre-moistened towelettes
• Plastic bag or plastic wrap for any leftovers that are not packed in their own container
• A plastic bag for trash
• Condiments: salt, pepper, ketchup, mustard, sugar, etc.
• Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and other sun protection
• Insect repellant
• A small first-aid kit
• A camera, so you can capture the memories of this perfect picnic!