There is something so perfect simple about a picnic it makes me almost giddy.  Properly packing a picnic is something I have done a hundred times–and learning how to properly pack a picnic is a skill I’ve acquired after COUNTLESS spills and mishaps.  How does that saying go?  “Experience is the best teacher.”

Anywho, the point is, packing a picnic is easy pleasy, so long as you have a quick checklist, good lids, and a wee bit of common sense {all of which I am guilty of not having at one time or another.}

First off, decide on a menu.  Think about the proportion of foods you need to keep warm, versus the ones that will need to be kept cool.  They will require different containers, so if space is an issue,  you will want to plan accordingly.

Potato salads, coleslaw {pretty much anything with mayo} are like ticking time bombs.  You really need to keep them cool.  So, if you are planning on these items, a cooler is a must.  Keep them in the fridge as long as possible, and then pack the cooler very last.  Make sure you have plenty of ice, ice packs, etc.

Also, plastic wrap is just plain and simple bad idea.  You MAY get lucky and have nothing spill on the car ride over, but chances are, something will inadvertently tip and you’ll have a mess on your hands.  Choose containers with secure fitting lids–it will save you tons of headache and hassle.  The cooler is also a good place for any condiments you might need:  mustard, relish, ketchup, salad dressings, etc.

For non-perishable items, like french bread, etc. you can pack a basket, box, or grocery bag.  For items that need to be kept warm, I recommend transporting in a crock pot, insulated tote, or dutch oven {because they will all retain heat the longest}.  If you are going to a park, you might even be able to store an outlet for the crock pot.  I also like to put these in a box, if I have one lying around, so that they don’t slide all over the car on the way to the picnic spot.

Once you have the food covered, move onto drinks.  Individual cans work best, because they are easy to transport, and can be easily discarded or packed out later.  Plus, it eliminates the need for individual cups.  You aren’t stuck with just soda, either, you can get lemonade, water, sparkling water, etc.

Finally, think about serving the food.  If your location has picnic tables, bring a tablecloth {that way you won’t be stuck cleaning up the previous picnickers mess–you can just sweep it under the table cloth}.  If not, bring a blanket/s large enough for everyone to sit on.  Next, think plates, utensils.

Finally, remember any tableware you might need.  Plates, napkins, utensils {including serving utensils}.  Little things like a cutting board, knife and corkscrew are easy to forget, so make sure to account for them.

When you’re all finished with your undoubtedly perfect picnic, make cleanup easier by packing wet wipes {or a wet washcloth in a ziploc bag}, trash bags, paper towels, etc.

How about YOU, any picnic essentials that you’ve learned over the years?

~Mavis

Need some picnic recipe ideas, here’s a few to get you started:

• Dijon Potato Salad with Green Onions
• Slow Cooked Boston Baked Beans
• Peach Ginger Glazed Grilled Chicken
• BLT {Bacon, Barley, Lettuce & Tomato} Salad
• Fresh Raspberry Pie