How to Have the Perfect Picnic

The movies make outdoor picnics look so easy, fun, and romantic. But, if you don’t know how to plan the perfect picnic, you will discover it is much harder than it looks. Unless you are planning to just take a blanket and grab a pizza and some bottled drinks, you need to do some planning to pull it off. (Note – pizza, drinks, and a blanket is one of my family’s favorite types of picnics.) If you want the kind of picnic spread you see in the movies, here’s what you need to do.  

Find the Right Location

During the pandemic, location is more important than ever (if you want to go beyond having a fancy picnic in your backyard). For example, some state parks are restricted and other public parks are overcrowded. Bathrooms may also be closed.

Beyond these pandemic-related issues, there are other things you need to consider about your picnic location, such as distance. Yes, a hike to a beautiful lookout point sounds lovely, but is it realistic? How far will you have to carry your picnic supplies from your car to the picnic spot? Are there tables at the location? Will you need to bring your own or take a blanket?

Invest in the Right Picnic Gear

If you want to have a perfect picnic, then you need to invest in the right picnic gear. It will be much easier if you have separate picnic supplies rather than having to assemble an assortment from your kitchen. For example, a picnic basket or an insulated picnic backpack that includes plastic plates, utensils, and glasses is great to have on hand. If you do not have a picnic basket, a cooler is a good idea since you can keep food insulated and they have handles for carrying or pulling.

Additionally, you need to have multiple storage containers for the food you take on your picnic. If you are taking any food that needs to remain chilled, invest in food containers with attachable ice packs. These also work great for kids’ school lunches or work lunches.

Hydration Tips

In addition to having the right gear to transport your food, you need the right gear for hydration. Insulated water bottles are always a great idea – especially if you plan to hike to your picnic spot. If you plan on enjoying some adult beverages during your picnic, consider purchasing an insulated wine canteen. There are canteens available that will hold an entire bottle and retain the temperature for 24 hours.

Plan the Picnic Menu

When planning a picnic menu, you want to aim for as many finger foods as possible. That’s why sandwiches and charcuterie boards are popular for picnics. However, you want to avoid anything sticky or messy because you are eating with your hands.

You should also plan for how many. If you pack too much food for the picnic, it is going to be harder to carry to the picnic spot (and you will have more wasted food to throw away and carry back home).

Speaking of packing your picnic, this is great advice from Taste of Home: “Pack your basket in reverse order to make it easy to get at the items you need when you arrive at your picnic site. Place nonperishable food on the bottom, then serving items and tableware, and finally the tablecloth on top.”

Also, check out this list of 101 Delightful Picnic Food Ideas.

Must-Haves for Outdoor Picnics

• A large, waterproof blanket

• A basket, cooler, or tote

• Food and drinks

• Hand sanitizer

• Napkins or paper towels

• A trash bag

• Bug spray

• Sunscreen

• Bottle opener or corkscrew

• Extra cutlery (especially a knife for opening stuff and spreading on condiments)

• Wireless Bluetooth speaker

• First aid kit

5 Summer Backyard Goals

If you have ever had summer backyard goals, summer 2020 is the year to get it done. With many places still closed or at limited capacity due to COVID-19, our summer vacations are bound to look different. Since we will be spending more time in our own backyards, it just makes sense to make our backyard an oasis for our families.

If you want a perfect backyard escape, these are the five things you need. Keep in mind, this is for families lucky enough to have a backyard. If you are in an apartment or simply don’t have adequate backyard space, think of ways you can incorporate these ideas into your indoor space.

Comfortable Seats for the Whole Family

Your outdoor space needs comfortable seating for the whole family. After running and playing in the sun, you need somewhere comfortable to sit and relax. One of my favorite backyard décor items is my swing chair. It is stylish and comfy. I also splurged on an adorable chaise lounge designed for kids.

Somewhere for Food and Drinks

In addition to seats, you need somewhere to sit your food and drinks. Whether you purchase an old-fashioned picnic table or go all-in for sophisticated patio furniture, choose a quality piece. Outdoor furniture should be made to be long-lasting and to withstand a variety of outdoor elements.

A Playground for Your Kids

Unfortunately, some cities and counties are still restricting kids from playing on their outdoor playground equipment because of the coronavirus. But kids need playground equipment! It helps develop their motor skills and gives them endless opportunities for imaginative play. If you’ve been debating whether you should get your own play set for the backyard, the answer is yes.

And, if your kid is a little too big for a play set, then opt for building (or buying the supplies) your own American Ninja Warrior Backyard Course. Plus, this is an excellent way for kids to wear themselves out playing so they’ll sleep better at night!

PHOTO: www.ltdcommodities.com

Games for the Adults

Kids shouldn’t be the only ones who get to enjoy the backyard. With all the different outdoor games available, choose the one that will be the most fun for you and your spouse and friends to play. You can choose from corn hole, giant yard dice, and giant Jenga. All of these yard games can be DIY or be purchased.

A Way to Cool Off

Last but not least, you need a place to cool off. It may not be super hot right now, but we know it is coming. That’s why it is so important to have a way to cool off in your backyard. Of course, it would be amazing if we all could have our own backyard pools, but I know that isn’t feasible. But, go ahead and stock up on the water toys, like sprinklers and slip and slides.

When it comes to other ways to cool off, start with finding shade. If you have natural shade, place your seats here. If you do not have natural shade, invest in an umbrella.