Packing a 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.