Picnics

12 tips for the Pro Picnic’er:

1. “The Essential Picnic Kit” (things every picnic basket should include):  Salt, pepper, sugar, a small all-purpose knife, a corkscrew, a can opener, matches, paper towels, trash bags, wet wipes, bug repellent and sunscreen.
2. Coolers: Lightweight, soft-sided coolers are the most convenient. The rigid ones on wheels are also very user-friendly .
3. Umbrellas: Since picnics are rarely held in cool weather (intentionally), a lightweight, folding umbrella is a must. At the very least, to shade the food and, at the very best, some of the guests as well.
4. Flexible Cutting Board: Always pack two. They take up practically no room and will prove indispensable.
5. Lightweight, Folding Chairs: Great for anyone who isn’t comfortable sitting on the ground. Since it’s not practical to tote one for everyone, they are a VIP item.
6. Good looking, re-usable plastic tumblers and stemmed wine glasses. Glass is often impractical and flimsy plastic glassware can sap the elegance right out of a special meal. This is also the most sustainable choice.
7. Pack condiments in small containers rather than taking whole jars.
8. Pack everything possible in light, flexible, heavy-duty re-sealable bags. Take them home to rinse and re-use.
9. Precut easy finger-food sized portions. Perfect picnic food is easy to eat without utensils.
10. Take citronella candles to ward off flying insects.
11. Pack the ice for beverages in heavy-duty plastic bags and tuck it around the food. That way it serves double duty—chilling the food until you need it for drinks.
12. Put the cooler inside the car (where the air conditioning is running) not in the hot trunk.