One.
Organization is the key to having a successful picnic. Be sure to lay everything out, check and double check that you have something to sit on, the perfect location, family and friends to enjoy it with you and please, don’t forget the delicious food and drinks. That is, after all what makes up a picnic.
Two.
Pick the perfect location. Consider the people you have invited along with you. For me, I would be considering my husband and 7 month old, so somewhere with a lot of shade would be ideal for us. If you have small children, perhaps a park with a playground nearby would be the perfect location. If you live near a lake or beach, that would also be a great choice. If you are wanting to host a romantic picnic with a loved one, pick an appropriate atmosphere.
Three.
Consider the time of day and pack your food accordingly. Are you going in the morning? Pack breakfast foods and don’t forget that thermos full of coffee, sugar and cream. Are you going for lunch? Sandwiches and carrot sticks are perfect for this time of day. If you’re going around dinner time or my favorite time of day – sunset – pack hotdogs or hamburgers fresh off the grill with chips, pasta salad, etc. It is summertime after all. It’s important to plan the perfect picnic menu for the people you are inviting. Consider their preferences, food allergies, etc.
Four.
I know I stated this in my first point, but don’t forget something to sit on. Consider the people who will be joining you. You may need to include a lawn chair for older people, or maybe bring along a bumbo or bouncer for baby to play in. My favorite thing to bring is an old quilt. I have a bit of a quilt obsession. I carry the quilt my grandma made me in my car most of the time because we always find ourselves needing it.
Five.
Pack your food well. Try to keep them at proper temperature and to bring foods that do well at room temperature for a little while. Pack everything in zip-lock bags, jars, tupperware, saran wrap, whatever will keep it fresh. I recommend bringing drinks in bottles. Bottled water, root beer, coke, etc. are all great options. Anything with a screw on lid will help with spills. No one wants to clean up a mess. If you have a small cooler or thermal bag, feel free to throw some bottles in there with an ice pack to keep the drinks cold.
Six.
Pack napkins, paper plates and plastic utensils. Depending on the number of guests you have attending your picnic, you may consider packing a roll of paper towels. They will be easy to dispose of when you start to clean up. Also, be sure to bring any condiments, salad dressing, salt, pepper, syrup, etc. depending on what you’re eating. These things can literally make or break a meal so be sure to remember to pack these in your basket.
Seven.
You may want to bring bug spray, especially if you live in Alabama where the mosquito is our state bird. Sun screen is also a necessity, especially if you’re like me and bringing along a baby. Protect your skin, folks!
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Eight.
Think about entertainment. If you want to bring an Ipod for background music, a good book or magazine, or toys for the kids, be sure to pack those things.
Nine.
Prepare for clean-up. Bring a trash bag, or two depending on the number of guests. Pack wipes for everyone to clean their hands with and maybe even some hand-sanitizer.
Ten.
Have fun. Make good conversation, laugh, relax and enjoy the company and delicious food that you worked so hard to prepare and pack. Everyone loves a picnic. They are the perfect summer day activity for adults and children alike. Enjoy your time with the people you love.
Where do you like to go for your perfect picnic? Have you been on a picnic this year?
I love the plates with the ants marching across! Great tips! I believe the mosquito is SC's state bird, too!
Great tips. I love picnics.
These are great tips- I always forget the trashbag! Your dog is precious!
Thanks for the tips! It has been awhile since I last done a picnic. I'll definitely need these tips for next time.
I havent been on a picnik in a while, however, Ft. toulouse is a great spot 🙂
I love picnics – I am definitely going to follow a few of these next time! <3
I love this! I want to go on a picnic this year with Joe, I'll have to remember this!
I always take something to read to be ready for the quite down x
This is really cute! I love Picnic's!
I'm in picnic mood now!
I'm in picnic mood now!
Hi there! Popping over from Jemma's blog. Such a cute post! I love picnics! I always forget bug spray, though! I need to remember that next time!
Love this! I've haven't had a picnic for a long time and now I'm already planning one 😉
Great tips 🙂 We haven't gone for a picnic yet this year but we will definitely be going soon, always nice to eat in the sun!
I love picnics! If only I could avoid bugs.
I've never had a nice, traditional, in the park, picnic before! But it's definitely on my list! I'd definitely go for a shady spot too, but near the sun if I feel like soaking it up!
Love this, I want to have tons of picnics this summer!
I do believe I'm going to plan a picnic for the kiddos this week!
Honestly, I don't go on picnics. It's Texas and summer, so it's so hot and nasty out here!
How cute are picnic baskets?! I actually had a picnic at the Backstreet Boys concert last month!
Love your post and those plates are adorable! I can't remember the last time I went on a picnic but you've inspired me to do it soon. 🙂
Love those plates! Cute post! 🙂
What a great list that hits all the important points to consider. We are going to picnic this Sunday and I'm looking forward to it!
Mosquitos are the state bird, hahaha I am pretty sure that is NC too!! And we don't go outside without spraying down. Especially my daughter! She went out the other night for like 10 minutes and forgot to apply bugspray and came in with 24 bites on her legs alone!! WTC
Thanks for sharing these tips. I want to take my kids on some picnics this summer 🙂
Thanks for linking up with 3 Southern Gals ThrowBack Thursdays
Great tips. I enjoyed coming by from Best of the weekend. I am following you now.
Have a wonderful weekend,
Sherry
Hi Logan! Love these great picnic tips and perfect for the season! Thank you so much for sharing at Best of the Weekend and pinned. Hope you're having a happy and wonderful week!
Awesome picnic tips – thanks so much for sharing them at the Friday Frenzy.
Thanks for sharing at the Say G’day party. I’ve just pinned your post to the Say G’Day Saturday Board.
Hope to see you again tomorrow!
Best wishes,
Natasha in Oz