Everything You Need for the Perfect Picnic

Summer is here, and with it, comes picnic season. Perhaps the most whimsical way to enjoy a meal, there's something undeniably fun and wholesome about a good old fashioned picnic. At the park or by the beach, or even in your own backyard, who doesn't love to get together on a sunny day and indulge in some snacks?

To make the most of picnic season, we've put together a list of essentials (and some strongly suggested optional extras) for your best picnic yet. So, if you're the planner of your friendship group or family, get ready to take some notes — and win some serious brownie points with your lucky invitees.

The quintessential symbol of picnicking, a good basket helps transport your goodies safely and stylishly. Look for one large enough to fit your food and drinks, but compact enough to be easily portable. Bonus points if it includes compartments for dishes and utensils, plus insulation to keep your food fresh.

No picnic is complete without a comfortable and spacious picnic rug. Choose a rug that’s large enough for your group and made from a durable, easy-to-clean material. A picnic rug with a little padding is a plus, helping to keep you and your guests comfy.

Bring along some outdoor cushions for that extra touch of comfort. These can make lounging more enjoyable and keep your picnic cosy. Opt for cushions with removable covers for easy washing in case of spills or stains.

Keep your drinks chilled and food fresh with a portable cooler. Depending on the size of your group and your menu, you might consider a hard-sided cooler for longer cooling or a soft-sided bag for lighter, shorter trips.

Opt for reusable plates and utensils to minimise waste — plus, you'll save money by not having to purchase new ones each time you picnic. Materials like bamboo, melamine, or stainless steel offer durability and can withstand outdoor use without breaking.

Don’t let the harsh sun put a damper on your day out. A wide-brimmed sun hat will protect your face and neck from sunburn while adding a stylish touch to your picnic outfit.

Versatile and practical, tea towels are essential for any picnic. Use them to line your basket, wrap warm bread, or clean up spills. They're lightweight, easy to pack, and quickly absorb moisture.

Pack small jars or containers with your favorite condiments and seasonings. They're great for enhancing flavors and making simple picnic foods feel like a gourmet feast.

Sunscreen is a must-have for any outdoor activity, especially during the summertime. Apply it generously before heading out and bring extra to reapply as needed throughout the day.

Don’t get caught out buying an overpriced bottle of water from the nearest cafe or corner shop — bring your own refillable bottles along. Between the heat of the sun and any beach exercise you partake in, you want to stay hydrated.

Not because you’re going for a shop at the beach — because it’s always good to have a place to put your rubbish (you never know if a beach will have bins in the vicinity, or how quickly they’ll fill up).

Finally, consider what kind of entertainment you’d like. Whether it’s a deck of cards, a portable speaker for some music, or a book, adding entertainment to your picnic will help to keep the good times rolling — even after everyone has reached their snacking limit.