Picnicking Like a Pro
Summer is such a lovely season; everyone is looking to spend their time outdoors with great activities and entertainment. Perhaps there is nothing more relaxing and enjoyable than having a picnic with friends and family. Not only is it an enjoyable way to spend a summer day, but it's also a great way to soak up a bit of healthy fresh air and sunshine.
Here, we're giving you the steps to having the perfect picnic. One of the best parts of a picnic is the preparation for it! With the right meal and equipment, you are sure to have a wonderful time and if you follow these steps you will be picnic-ready in no time!
Pick Out the Right Picnic Bag
Are you looking for the perfect picnic bag? Read on for tips on finding the best bag for you. First, you'll want to consider the size of your picnic. If you want to bring a large party, you might need a large bag like a backpack or even coolers. Or, if you're an individual who likes to bring a variety of food, a large bag would also be ideal.
Next, you'll want to consider the material of your bag. It's best to get a bag made of high-quality material that's resistant to the elements and won't easily tear. Plus, it should be washable!
Might we suggest one of our favorite (and quite stylish) totes perfect for the job?
With our Nicolas Vahé Canvas Tote, you'll be able to bring more than enough food and drinks for yourself or a small group of friends. It is easy to carry meals and drinks with you in this handy high-quality bag. This reusable canvas bag is approximately 14" x 2" x 14". Our Nicolas Vahé Canvas Tote is reasonably priced and reusable for years to come.
Carry Non-Breakable Items
While most people think of using regular glass containers as an alternative to paper, it's more suitable to use a type of container that is not breakable. One option is enamelware as they have special properties that make them great for picnics. They are lightweight, so you don't need to worry about them weighing you down. Plus, they are waterproof, so you can leave them out for several hours without having to worry about getting anything wet. Enamelware can be used for things other than storing your picnic, for example, storing paper goods or for a stylish way of serving food.
Bring Something to Do
Learning how to entertain at a picnic can be a lot of fun. Here are a few tips to help with that. One of the best ways to deliver a good time at a picnic is to stash some games in your picnic bag. Make sure you bring options for everyone so you'll all enjoy the time you spend together. A deck of cards, a soft frisbee, or bubbles are inexpensive fun add-ins to toss into your picnic bag.
If you don't have enough games, you can always try a few more traditional activities for keeping busy. Eye-Spy while looking up in the clouds is a wonderful way to relax together. And, it may sound silly, but singing is a great way to spend time with family and friends. And it's even more entertaining when you make up songs together!
Bring a book or two because read-alouds are fun even for adults! Try a choose-you-ending type of book for an engaging way to incorporate a book with your outdoor adventure.
Occupying your time with light conversation with your family and friends is easy to do when you're involved with activities together. That's one of the best ways to keep the atmosphere light and enjoyable.
The time spent together is a healthy way to bond and grow in your relationships. Consider picnics with any group that does a lot of "working" together - the break from the ordinary will be refreshing and bring life to the work environment.
Have an Eco-Friendly Menu
Picnics are a great way to celebrate spring and summer, get some fresh air, and enjoy delicious food. But it's important to remember that you don't want to harm the environment you're enjoying!
You'll want to pack picnic food in your Canvas Picnic Tote. You don't want to create waste just to have a party, so plan on serving snacks and dishes on reusable items such as an Acacia Wooden Cheese Board. Plan the menu around this idea, too, so you're not inclining anyone to leave waste behind.
Be sure to properly store or dispose of any trash. Use nearby trash cans or take trash with you. Don't leave it behind for others to clean up! (Tip: We pack extra grocery bags to use as trash bags. Plus, it is always our hope to leave a place nicer than when we arrived, so we pick up any stray trash.)
Storing and Serving the Drinks
For a summer picnic, you’ll want to be sure and keep everyone hydrated, so you’ll need enough drinks. Here are a few recommendations. Choose drinks that are easy to transport and serve. Prepare the drinks beforehand and use a container that keeps the drinks cool. Pick out a variety of drinks that are nutritious and delicious, homemade lemonade is always a win! Then, pack them in a cooler. Keep the drinks in the cooler until the picnic begins. Make sure there is enough ice to keep the drinks cool. Frozen water bottles work great in coolers specifically designed for drinks.
Have a Bug Plan
What do you do if bugs decide to visit your picnic? Make sure you have a Bug Plan! Here are some tips to limit the number of bugs at your picnic.
First, place your Blanket down in an area that doesn't have a lot of trees because they're a popular place for bugs to live. Next, be cautious of small bushes. Bugs also tend to hide there, so avoid sitting too close to them.
Last, bring a spray bottle of your favorite all-natural bug spray in your tote bag for sharing. Be sure to spray exposed skin away from any of the food or serving pieces. Remember citrus and peppermint are natural bug repellents and are safe around food.
Got flies? Here’s a quick tip to try with things you should have on hand. Take a clear glass or jar and add water. Then, toss in a few pennies (the older, the better!). You can set them around the picnic blanket to keep flies at bay.
Some Extras You Shouldn't Forget
Food and drinks are the main elements of a picnic, but there are a few extras you should never forget! In addition to the basics, other necessities include blankets, sunscreen, a camera, a hat, and plates and utensils. While it may not seem important now, it is a good idea to bring some extra cash for parking, in case you need to buy something you forgot, or if you choose to do some local activities. You may just find that the extra money will be a lifesaver, especially if an ice cream truck happens to pass by. If you are hiking, a map of the area may be helpful. And, of course, don't forget the paper towels!
Summary
For most people, the term picnic brings to mind warm summer days, green grass, special foods, and fizzy drinks. And for some, it also means blankets, sitting on the grass, eating and chatting with family and friends, and enjoying the summer weather together.
But what else should you take along to a picnic? Packing your picnic bag is important! To ensure that your meal is pleasant, you must be able to organize your picnicking items logically and efficiently. You will need to get a good-sized Picnic Tote, a Blanket, some plates, and of course yummy food. You should make sure that you have it all packed well so everything does not slide around and make a mess.
Once your bag is ready, enjoy your time outdoors with your friends and family, or even co-workers during a lunch break! Or, rejuvenate on your own with a solo picnic. Either way, you may just find picnicking is your new thing!
Here is a Quick Rundown of TEN Benefits of Picnicking:
Breathing the great outdoor's CLEAN AIR is good for the lungs
Fostering a feeling of belonging with FAMILY BONDING
Allows for more COMMUNICATION between the parties
And, also time for SELF-REFLECTION
HEALTHIER MEALS from homemade goodies instead of processed foods
The games, sports, and nature walks keep you ACTIVE
Sunshine and fresh air are great natural MOOD BOOSTERS
Plus, a little Vitamin D is good for STRONGER BONES
Headed outside to eat is a natural STRESS REDUCER
SAVES MONEY by eating from your fridge (Plus, parking is usually a breeze.)
