Whether you’re going for a walk in the woods, at the nearest outdoor pool or on a bike tour in the countryside: there’s always time for a picnic, no matter where you are. The basis for this are essential things such as a blanket, cutlery and crockery as well as some provisions – for example small snacks and cool drinks. All accessories are stored in a classic picnic basket. In contrast to the past, the models today have far more functions. Also to keep food fresher for longer outdoors. What these are and what you should definitely pay attention to when packing is explained in more detail in this article.
An open rattan basket may look nice, but it’s not particularly practical for a picnic. On the one hand there are no mounting options, on the other hand there are no cooling functions or protection against insects. The following three models are more suitable for an outdoor lunch.
Typical of the wicker basket is its rectangular shape, which is usually closed with one or two flaps. For safer transport, the Display4top model has two straps and a carrying handle. It is also particularly practical that the basket is already filled: it contains four sets of dishes including cutlery, wine glasses, napkins and a bottle opener. And so that the sets don’t roll around in it, they can also be attached to the picnic basket.
On a hot summer’s day, perishable food doesn’t keep long outdoors – and drinks that are best enjoyed chilled warm up faster. Here it makes sense to use a thermal basket with an integrated cooling function: as with this model from Navaris. Thanks to the inner lining, which is fully insulated with food-safe PEVA film, and a zipper, your food and drinks stay fresh longer in the foldable basket.
A well-filled picnic basket is not always light, so your arms quickly get tired on long journeys. For longer routes or bike tours, a picnic backpack is a good idea, which can be easily shouldered and is therefore less of a burden. There are also suitable models (in different colours), for example from Sunflora, which are already equipped with crockery and cutlery as well as a blanket – and also have an insulated cooling compartment.
In addition to the basket filled with food and drinks, a few more important details are needed for the upcoming picnic:
A classic outdoor picnic usually takes place on the ground. For this reason, a large blanket is one of the absolute must-haves. Ideally, you should opt for a foldable model that is waterproof and well insulated at the same time.
If the picnic basket does not have a cooling function, it is advisable to store perishable food in food storage containers. You can also put ice packs in the basket to keep the snacks and drinks cold for as long as possible.
If the picnic basket is supplied exclusive of crockery and cutlery, you must use your own. It is best to choose reusable plates and glasses – or at least recyclable single-use crockery and cutlery.
It should go without saying, but it has to be mentioned: take enough garbage bags with you to every picnic so that you can properly dispose of your leftovers. To protect the environment, especially flora and fauna.
Since finger foods that are eaten with your hands can make your fingers dirty and sticky, you should think of adult napkins or children’s wipes. Alternatively, a tea towel and some water will do.
Last but not least, it’s a good idea to sunscreen for an al fresco picnic when the sun’s shining – and pack some sunscreen in the basket. In addition, it is a good idea to take something with you for the prevention and aftercare of mosquito bites.
For an outdoor lunch with friends or family, you can take (almost) anything you like with you. Bite-sized snacks and finger food, for example, can be easily prepared at home and stowed in the picnic basket. However, care should be taken with desserts, as they not only stick to your fingers, but also attract hungry insects such as flies and wasps. Treats such as chocolate, which melt faster in the sun, should also stay at home – “dry” desserts such as cakes or muffins are more suitable. And what other foods are missing from a picnic?
The following list of snack suggestions should serve as your inspiration:
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