Planning a Picnic

With winter quickly approaching, the clear days that are perfect for picnics are almost over. Having a picnic with your family can be some of the most fun you'll ever have. However, the most difficult task of a picnic is remembering everything. Make yourself a list of all of the things you might need for a fantastic picnic. Then, as you pack, check off the items that you actually need. Save the list for the next picnic of camping trip. When you return, add the items that you wished you had taken. If you continue to do this, eventually, you'll have the perfect list and the perfect family picnic! A picnic blanket is always a must, but sometimes, the ground is wet. If you bring along a plastic tarp to put underneath the blanket, you'll save your blanket and your clothes! The tarp will last many years if kept out of the sunlight and can be hosed clean at home if needed. Use strategy in picking out your perfect picnic spot! If mosquitoes are problematic in your area, select a higher, drier location that is in full sun and exposed to a breeze. Heat and wind are natural mosquito repellants. On the other hand, if staying warm is a problem, choose a spot exposed to the sun and protected from cool breezes. If you're in an area where it's still hot out, pick a spot that will be in the cool of the shade in the hottest part of the afternoon. Safety is key! If you have kids, make sure there are no hazards near your picnic spot - busy roads, deep water, or cliffs. Speaking of kids, don't forget paper towels for those spills and cleaning wipes to clean dirty hands and faces. Put a dry towel and wet washcloth on your list. Stick the wet washcloth in a plastic zipper bag. Make sure to bring plenty of liquids. Water is the best option, but juices or punches or juices frozen into slushes can work just as well. Active kids playing in the hot sun need to be reminded to drink plenty of fluids. Fresh fruit should be included in your picnic basket. It's a nourishing, refreshing, sweet treat that can take the place of other sweet treats. Add fruit pieces to green salads or tuna or chicken salads. Surprisingly, you need to bring along a cutting board and a couple of good knives. The cutting board is especially useful if you don't have a picnic table. A cooler is a must as well, as perishable foods must be kept cold to prevent the growth of bacteria. Stick a first aid kit in the car and keep it in there at all times. If you have children, chances are you'll need it. If you're planning to go to the mountains or to the woods or anywhere off the beaten path, be sure to let someone you trust know where you are going, and what time you plan to return. This is extremely helpful in case of emergency, as no matter where you may go, your cell phone might be useless if the reception is horrible. But above all else, enjoy yourself! With winter rapidly approaching, we have to use the last warm days to have fun while we can!