Choose the Right Picnic Basket

It just wouldn't be a picnic without the basket. There are several options to choose from when getting ready for your next alfresco meal.

• The most complex type of picnic basket comes stocked with dining essentials. Often shaped more like a suitcase than a basket, these have specially designed compartments and straps that hold matching sets of plates, cups, utensils and napkins.
• A classic picnic basket is one with a hinged top that opens from two sides. These are often round in shape and deep enough to hold food and a picnic blanket.
• Not all picnic baskets are actually baskets. A tote bag, old suitcase or folded blanket can also stand in for the basket. Martha Stewart shares instructions for making a picnic basket from a tablecloth.