Having a picnic is a great way to spend some quality time in nature with your family. What’s more, picnics don’t take a lot of time to organize, and you can have them both in your backyard, on the beach, park, or up in the mountains. However, you must think about a couple of things before grabbing a blanket and heading out to nature.
Picnic Essentials
A good blanket is one of the first things that should be on your list of picnic essentials. Consider investing in those with a waterproof back if the grass is slightly wet. However, the old blanket you are not using every day can come in handy as well.
Be sure to invest in a good and large picnic basket that can hold all the food you’ve prepared for the feast in nature. Every family member can also bring a small backpack and put inside everything they need, and some of the stuff that couldn’t fit in the basket. A small cooler is vital, because you’ll want all your beverages fresh and cold.
If your picnic is going to last a whole day or if you’re going to a remote location, make sure to equip yourself with camping essentials, just to to make sure that you’re prepared for every scenario.
Food
When you say picnic, we think ‒ finger food. The easier to prepare, the better. Bread, cured meat, cheese and other finger food is all you need for a delicious meal. You could also make sandwiches, shortbread, or your favourite superfood salad and have a healthy meal as well.
Try to avoid making sandwiches with eggs, mayonnaise dressing or poultry, because they can go bad in high temperatures. Pack the food in disposable and reusable containers, and bring plenty of paper, bamboo, tin, or sturdy glass dishes. Don’t forget about napkins, and cups as well.
Location
The beach can be a great location for a picnic. Kids would have numerous activities to enjoy, and you could also take a quick swim and maybe even get a little tan. Consider a local park, a lakeside, campground, the mountains, or maybe the countryside.
However, before you decide, think if there is a restroom close by, running water, do you have to hike there and is it large enough for a big group of people. Additionally, regardless of the location you choose, make sure you bring along a natural mosquito repellent because mosquitos always appear from somewhere and you don’t want them to ruin your picnic.
Don’t forget extra paper towels, a bottle opener, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer. If you have small children, antibacterial ointment and bandages should also be on top of the list.
Toys and Games
Kites, Frisbees, bubbles, balls and racquets will keep the kids occupied for an entire day. They should use the day in nature to entertain, run and enjoy as many activities as they can. Play volleyball or football with them, teach them how to fly a kite, and throw Frisbees or boomerangs together. Badminton is another great activity an entire family can enjoy together.
Final Thoughts
When you want to spend some quality time with your family, organize a picnic. Grab a blanket, pack some food, games and other picnic essentials and you’ll have a great time no matter where you decide to go.
