How To Create A Picnic Check List

If you feel frazzled at the thought of going on a picnic spontaneously, it's probably because of the worry of what needs to be taken to ensure a great time. Here are some brief instructions on preparing for a picnic, along with a useful list that you can copy and add to/subtract from to suit your own needs.

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Steps

1) - Check the suggested list of things needed for a picnic set out below

2) - Copy this list to a Word document and alter it to fit with your needs.

3) - Cut and collect recipes you come across that you think would be great for a picnic and put them into a folder, plastic pocket or envelope for later use. Make sure they are somewhere you can find them! Better still, scan them into your computer and make a folder called "Picnic" and you'll never lose them. Google's www.writely.com is perfect for storing and sharing recipes.

4) - If you can spare the items in the list from your daily household routine, pack them in your picnic container ready to go at all times. This removes the biggest hurdle to not feeling like leaving the house!

Tips

• Try to prefer non-disposable items over disposable ones. If you are worried about breaking your favourite plates or losing special cutlery, buy cheap used ones from thrift stores that can provide an eclectic, old-world atmosphere to your picnic.

• Tea, coffee, juice and soft drinks all taste better in glass or metal containers - avoid the throw-away kinds of cups and glasses.

• You can purchase cake covers that will keep food safe from insects. These fold up neatly and are a great addition to a picnic set.

• Keep old pieces of foil used in the kitchen, wash and dry them and put them with your picnic set for a second use.

• Always wash all your picnic items and dispose of food on returning from a picnic and your picnic pack will be fresh and ready for you at all times.

Warnings

Pay attention to weather forecasts. Take raincoats and umbrellas as a precaution if there is any hint of rain. Many places provide a covered area you can resort to if rain starts on your picnic.

Things You'll Need

• Tablecloth, rug, or blanket; if your ground cover isn't waterproof, also take a waterproof groundsheet

• Napkins - cloth is nicest and environmentally-friendly

• Plastic/metal/china/glass/disposable plates, cutlery, bowls

• Mugs, cups, glasses (plastic is best, but re-useable ones work well also)*Cutting or bread board

• Bread knife and perhaps another sharp knife for meats/cheese/tomatoes/fruit

• Servers and/or tongs for salads, meats etc*Food containers & serving plates

• Paper towels

• Small pieces of foil, cheesecloth or plastic wrap for covering food; or get fold-away cake covers

• Thermos flask for keeping drinks warm, hot or cool

• Salt and pepper

• Favorite sauces, pickles, relishes etc