Planning a picnic sounds simple enough: pack some food, grab a blanket, and head to your favorite spot, right? Well, not so fast! While picnics are meant to be fun and relaxing, they can quickly turn into a comedy of errors if you’re not careful.
From forgotten essentials to a lack of shade, there’s a lot that can go wrong. But don’t worry. With some planning, you can pull off a picnic that’s every bit as fun as it should be. You only need to know these mistakes to avoid when planning the perfect picnic.
1. Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Water, Especially on a Hot Day
Sure, you might be tempted to focus on fun drinks like soda, lemonade, or even a refreshing bottle of wine, but water must be on the menu. Bonus points if you bring a big, insulated bottle or a cooler filled with lots of ice water to keep everyone refreshed. Toss in some slices of lemon, cucumber, or fresh mint for easy, understated, fancy vibes.
2. Bring Enough Blankets, Cushions, or Portable Chairs
When it comes to comfort, you’ve got to think ahead. No one wants to fight over the lumpy blanket you threw in at the last minute. A plush, spread-out picnic site is the secret sauce to keeping everyone chill and cozy.
Pack a couple of big blankets too. Wool blankets are must-haves at a picnic, as they’re soft and resistant to water and stains. Have a mix of cushions for the loungers and maybe a few portable chairs for folks who prefer a little back support.
3. Prepare for Pests
Creepy-crawlies are usually the reason why many people stay away from eating outdoors, but there are ways to keep your picnic pest-free. First off, don’t forget the insect repellent. Spray it like you mean it, but maybe downwind so you don’t accidentally marinate your watermelon in bug spray.
Next, make sure all your delicious goodies are packed in tightly sealed containers. Not only does this keep the ants from turning your sandwiches into their new hangout spot, but it also prevents accidental spills. For extra backup, bring a food tent or a mesh cover for the snacks that’ll be sitting out.
4. Always Plan for Shade
Whether it’s a blazing hot sunny day or there’s an unexpected sprinkle, shade keeps guests cozy and comfortable. Folding chairs with attached umbrellas? Genius. A lightweight pop-up canopy? Pro-level planning.
And don’t underestimate a good, old-fashioned blanket-under-a-tree situation; it’s a classic for a reason. Shade also protects your snacks from melting into an unrecognizable, gooey mess, so it’s handy all around.
Now that you know how to banish unwanted hurdles and avoid mistakes when planning a picnic, you’re ready for an awesome, stress-free outdoor outing. Just grab your basket, your favorite people, and a good playlist. It’s time to picnic like a pro!
