what to pack for a summer picnic

is there a better month of the year than June? it marks the halfway point of the year and brings with it the first blush of summer. flowers begin to bloom, and the weather is near perfection as the sultry temps haven’t set in. there’s Flag Day and Father’s Day along with graduations to attend and weddings! and this year, we get to take part in all of the festivities. but June is also the month we head back outside to enjoy all of the sunshine and blue skies it offers. so whether you’re headed to a park or your own backyard. today, i share what to pack for a summer picnic. ‘cuz there’s nothing better than a party on the road.

of course, my favorite canine is joining me for a meal alfresco. however, he seems to be more interested in his ball than a glass of wine. well, he did eye the charcuterie tray… but the weather has been so delightful here in Georgia this past week that i decided an impromptu picnic was good for the soul. since it’s hosted in my own backyard, i don’t need to fret about running back indoors for a corkscrew or cheese knife. but most picnics have a change of scenery from your dining room or favorite restaurant, and you decide to hit the highways and byways with picnic supplies in hand. if that’s you, i have you covered!

what to pack for a summer picnic

if you’re like me, you like to keep life simple. that’s when a picnic basket comes in handy. just like a dress, a picnic hamper is one and done. it includes anything and everything you need for the perfect picnic. all that’s left to do is pack the food. in case you don’t want to invest in a basket, i pulled together a list of all the supplies you’ll need. then all you’ll need is a tote to transport all of the items to and fro. but what about those of us who want to hike deep into the woods then picnic? that’s when a picnic backpack comes in handy.

don’t forget a picnic blanket and pillows. a portable low table can be set up to make your dining experience a little easier. that’s on my wish list. or there are portable wine tables that anchor directly in the ground. picnicking has never been easier.

this highlander picnic basket is a-ma-zing. the willow basket is lined with red tartan and includes service for four. there’s a picnic blanket included with a waterproof lining on one side, which keeps you dry from wet grass or sand. salt and pepper shakers, corkscrew, cheese knife, cutting board, plates, wine glasses, cutlery, and a food storage container are included. there’s even an insulated wine duffle!

a dog and his ball. 

shop picnic supplies

today’s ootd is easy peasy! a romper, sandals and simple accessories are all that’s needed. this cute romper from J.Crew comes in three colors but i’m always a sucker for olive green, so into the cart, it went. almost any sandal color works with green, but i chose brown to keep the outfit anchored in neutrals. a gold necklace (old, similar here) and gold hoop earrings complete the look. 

charcuterie boards are easy to put together. a simple rule i follow is one hard cheese, one soft cheese, olives, nuts, crackers, and  cured meat. after that, let your imagination soar. fruit, chocolate, marinated food, dip, veggies, french bread are all good choices. if you need some inspiration with your creations, Platter and Boards will come to your aid.

romper | sandals | gold necklace (old, similar here) | hoop earrings

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oscar and i wish you a lovely weekend! go out and enjoy that sunshine.

Beth Djalali

is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.

She’s 65, 5’8, and size 8.

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