First, choose a container that suits the personality of the person who will be using the kit. It might be a traditional basket, a large canvass bag, or even a small backpack.

 

Next, use the list below as a guideline for what to keep in your kit. Maybe you won’t need all of the items, but these are good essentials to have on hand so you’ll always be prepared for spur of the moment picnics.

Utensils — forks, knives, spoons, plates — Coleman (the camping folks) make a very nice, portable service for 4, or use some from home or even paper plates and plastic cutlery.

Non-perishable foods — dried fruit, peanut butter, crackers, nuts, etc.

Beverages – bottled water, juice boxes, etc.

A corkscrew (if serving wine) and can opener, or better yet, multi-tooled Swiss Army knife.

Salt and pepper, either small shakers or disposable packets.

Small packets of condiments such as mustard, ketchup and mayonnaise.

Napkins and Paper Towels.

Matches and possibly a candle. (Use caution and make sure candles for picnics are enclosed so they can’t blow over and start a fire, and never use in a high fire danger area.)

A large trash bag to clean up the mess later.

A small plastic bag containing sunscreen, lip balm, insect replellent, band-aids, wet naps and a bandana.

A blanket or sheet to spread the whole thing out on, should you need or want to sit on the ground

If you bring your dog along, don’t forget a bowl, water, and food for the pooch.

Options: You might also want to pack some fun extras, depending on the amount of room in your container:

Single use camera

Inflatable beach ball

Frisbee

Small bottle of bubble mix

Deck of cards, crossword puzzle book, etc.