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I pack my picnic basket and take it with me? Tips for an outdoor lunch
With a picnic basket, food and drinks can be transported comfortably and easily
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With the first warm rays of sunshine, nature really blossoms – and with it the desire for a long picnic outdoors increases. Everything you need for this is stowed in a basket. In the following you will find out which models are well suited for this and what you should do without when picnicking.
Whether you’re going for a walk in the woods, at the nearest outdoor pool or on a bike tour in the countryside: there’s always time for a picnic, no matter where you are. The basis for this are essential things such as a blanket, cutlery and crockery as well as some provisions – for example small snacks and cool drinks. All accessories are stored in a classic picnic basket. In contrast to the past, the models today have far more functions. Also to keep food fresher for longer outdoors. What these are and what you should definitely pay attention to when packing is explained in more detail in this article.
A comparison of three types of picnic baskets
A open rattan basket It may look nice, but it’s not particularly practical for a picnic. On the one hand there are no mounting options, on the other hand there are no cooling functions or protection against insects. The following three models are more suitable for an outdoor lunch.
wicker basket
Typical of the wicker basket is its rectangular shape, which is usually closed with one or two flaps. For safer transport, the model has Display4top two straps and a carrying handle. It is also particularly practical that the basket is already filled: it contains four sets of dishes including cutlery, wine glasses, napkins and a bottle opener. And so that the sets don’t roll around in it, they can also be attached to the picnic basket.
Basket with cooling function
On a hot summer’s day, perishable food doesn’t last long outdoors – and even drinks that are best enjoyed chilled warm up faster. Here it makes sense to use a thermal basket with an integrated cooling function: as with this model from the company Navaris. Thanks to the inner lining, which is fully insulated with food-safe PEVA film, and a zipper, your food and drinks stay fresh longer in the foldable basket.
picnic backpack
A well-filled picnic basket is not always light, so your arms quickly get tired on long journeys. For longer routes or bike tours, a picnic backpack is a good idea, which can be easily shouldered and is therefore less of a burden. There are also matching models (in different colors), for example from Sunflorawhich are already equipped with crockery and cutlery as well as a blanket – and also have an insulated cooling compartment.
Pack a picnic basket: This is important
In addition to the basket filled with food and drinks, a few more important details are needed for the upcoming picnic:
A classic outdoor picnic usually takes place on the ground. For this reason, a large blanket is one of the absolute must-haves. Ideally, opt for one foldable modelwhich is waterproof and well insulated at the same time.
If the picnic basket does not have a cooling function, it is advisable to store perishable food in it food storage containers to stow. Besides, you can cold packs put them in the basket to keep the snacks and drinks cold for as long as possible.
If the picnic basket is supplied exclusive of crockery and cutlery, you must use your own. It is best to choose reusable plates and glasses – or at least recyclable disposable tableware and cutlery.
It should go without saying, but it has to be said: take enough with every picnic garbage bag so that you can properly dispose of your legacies. To protect the environment, especially flora and fauna.
Since finger foods that are eaten with your hands can make your fingers dirty and sticky, you should think about adult or adult napkins wet wipes think for children. Alternatively, a tea towel and some water will do.
Last but not least, it’s wise to sunscreen for an al fresco picnic in bright sunshine—and one suncream to put in the basket. In addition, there is nothing wrong with adding something prevention and aftercare take away from mosquito bites.
Which foods are suitable for a picnic?
For an outdoor lunch with friends or family, you can take (almost) anything you like with you. Bite-sized snacks and finger food, for example, can be easily prepared at home and stowed in the picnic basket. However, care should be taken with desserts, as they not only stick to your fingers, but also attract hungry insects such as flies and wasps. Treats such as chocolate, which melt more quickly in the sun, should also stay at home – “dry” desserts such as cakes or muffins are more suitable. And what other foods are missing from a picnic?
The following list of snack suggestions should serve as your inspiration:
- Sliced fruit, such as melon
- Carrot and cucumber sticks (plus dips)
- Pizza snails or dumplings
- Olives, grapes and nuts
- sandwiches or sandwiches
- pasta or potato salad
- cheese cubes
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