How to Pack the Perfect Picnic Basket

With a little planning and careful arranging, you can pack a ton into one picnic basket. From a blanket to eat on to no-fuss food, here is a step-by-step guide to packing everything you need for successful picnic into one basket. These tips include nonperishable foods and eating supplies. Bring along a separate container such as a cooler or ice bucket for beverages and any food that needs to stay cold.

• Place paper towels and cleaning cloths in the basket first since these will be the last items you need. They also provide a cushion for other items if your picnic basket isn't padded.
• Next, add heavier items, such as reusable food containers, thermoses and ice packs.
• Stack cups in the corners of the picnic basket.
• Put utensils wrapped in cloth napkins in the basket next, followed by the plates.
• Place items in soft packaging, such as individually wrapped sandwiches and bags of potato chips on top of the plates.
• Finally, fold up a picnic blanket to put on top. It will help protect the basket contents.
  

Assembling the perfect picnic basket depends a lot on the type of food you put in it. You want foods that are easy to eat, can withstand outdoor temperatures and don't require complicated prep work or cleanup. Fill your picnic basket with selections from our list of delicious, portable food and recipes.

• Mixed nuts or trail mix as an appetizer
• Texas Coleslaw
• Picnic Potato and Chicken Salad Cups
• Super Easy Fruit Salad
• Brownies or dessert bars

Tip: Single-serving desserts such as cookies, brownies or dessert bars pack well in individual containers.

 

 

Besides food and drinks, you will need some basic supplies to help you create a perfect picnic experience. Some picnic baskets come with items such as plates and utensils, but you may need to add them to others. Check out our list of things you need for a picnic, and then read our tips on how to pack them all in your basket.

• Large blanket If you plan to eat on the grass, bring a blanket large enough for everyone to have a place to sit and still have room to set out all the food.
• Tablecloth A plastic or oilcloth covering makes eating on picnic table less messy.
• Insulated Thermos Use a thermos to keep soups warm or salads cool.
• Unbreakable dinnerware Melamine plates and cups hold up well to traveling and eating outdoors.
• Utensils Bring real or plastic utensils if needed for salads and desserts. Don't forget serving spoons and knives.
• Napkins Cloth napkins are a nice touch even for casual outings, and they are less likely to blow away in the wind.
• Cleaning supplies Paper towels and trash bags make clean up quick and easy.