A picnic with the family might be one of the most uncomplicated pleasures: fresh air, delicious goodies, and no need to be anywhere else. But if you’ve ever gotten halfway to the park to realize you’ve left the drinks or picnic mat behind, you’ll understand that a small amount of planning makes all the difference. The perfect picnic isn’t about perfection; it’s about being prepared just enough to have a good time without anxiety.
Source:https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-family-having-a-picnic-during-day-time-8208799/
Think About Your Base First
The location makes or breaks the picnic. You should have a rough idea of where you’re going before you begin packing. Would the kids have a nice tree to hide under? Are there any loos available? Are you parking nearby or going on a trek? Knowing this ahead of time, you then pack accordingly—light loads for longer treks and luxury items if you’re pitching up by the car.
Food That Travels Well
Simplicity is the key when it comes to picnic food. Children care less about eating and more about having fun anyway, so finger food is the way forward. Mini sandwiches, carrot or cucumber sticks, sausage rolls, fruit skewers, and cheese and cracker snack pots work a treat. Pack each of these things in individual containers so they don’t get soggy on the way, and don’t hesitate to include a stash of treats on the side as a bribe later when exhaustion sets in.
The Picnic Kit You’ll Actually Use
It’s easy to want to take half the kitchen, but ruthlessness pays. The big soft-sided cool bag, toughened-up picnic blanket with a water-friendly underside, wet wipes, a pair of lightweight plates, and a lot of napkins are the must-haves. Paper straws are useful as well, particularly if small hands are dealing with juice boxes. We packed our picnic kit quite neatly into the boot of our Kia Models and had enough room left over for scooters, leaving the children with loads of things to do once they’d eaten.
Keeping Children Occupied While You Unwind
Even the most beautiful location loses its sparkle when the “I’m bored” loop sets in. A simple ball, a kite, or a bug-catching sheet will rescue your sanity. Consider low-key entertainment that’s not screen-based—a pre-printed scavenger list makes wonders happen and brings a touch of questing adventure into the afternoon.
Pack Smart, Not Heavy
Rather than a single huge bag where everything gets mixed up, take small bags for each of the different things — snacks in one, games and entertainment in another, plasters and sun cream in the third. It’s easier to just pick up what you want without spilling everything.
The Little Comforts Make a Big Difference
A couple of spare cushions added to the car can make a simple picnic a cozy spott. Particularly if you’re going somewhere like the beach or a cliff top, a little extra padding makes a big difference. Don’t forget sunhats for shade, and take layers even on hot days — the British weather’s notoriously unpredictable.
Don’t Forget the Aftermath
Take two bin bags: one for trash and one for dirty crockery or muddy clothing. Having a bottle of hand sanitizer stuffed away in the side of a cool bag will gain you hero points when sticky fingers start prodding sandwiches. Don’t leave a trace behind, and keep the places that matter most beautiful.
Laura x