Planning to have a picnic soon? Here are some essentials for creating the most perfect picnic aesthetic for you and your friends.

I love picnics. There is something about laying on a blanket on the grass or sand, and eating food criss-crossed that is so wholesome and refreshing.

Additionally, picnic food often means having a variety of bites to snack on, which I am always on board with. It’s the perfect gathering if you’re indecisive like me and want a taste of everything!

Living in Hawaii, I am lucky to have access to some beautiful parks and beaches that are perfect for picnicking. But even if you don’t live on a tropical island, gathering with friends in the outdoor breeze and eating delicious food is never a bad idea. 

Whether you want to go all out for a special occasion or have a low-key, casual gathering with friends, picnics can truly be dressed up or down. With a few core elements, you can put your own personal touches and create the perfect picnic everyone will love.

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The Essentials:

1. Super Large Blanket

Bigger the better – no harm in having a lil extra space! Plus, the bigger the blanket, the more room available to lie down and bask in the sun. If your picnic happens to take place on a harder surface, perhaps pick up a thicker blanket or bring some throw pillows!

Here are some great options:

1. ZAZE Extra Large Picnic Outdoor Blanket (it’s waterproof!)
2. Sand Cloud Party Blanket (So cute and lightweight)
3. scuddles Picnic Blanket (3 layers for extra comfort!)

2. Low Foldable Table/Tray

For me, this is a must. And it should be for you, too! A low table or tray to eat on helps to prevent any messes on the blanket, and provides a neater surface for all your goodies. There are many affordable options and this will seriously elevate your picnic! 

I also suggest adding a cute table cloth. If you have a theme for your picnic or you’re going for a certain aesthetic, your table cloth can really play a big factor! For a fall picnic you can use a warm-colored plaid cloth or Halloween-patterned cloth. Maybe you’re planning a floral-themed party, in which case you can use a floral cloth. If you don’t have an actual table cloth, use a blanket or even a bed sheet. Be creative!

1. This one has cup holders built in! SASIDO Portable Wine Picnic Table
2. A simple tray perfect for your goodies: KKTONER Bamboo Bed Tray Table
3. For bigger groups and lots of food: ROCK CLOUD Portable Camping Table

3. Picnic Basket/Bag + Cooler

There can often be many components to your picnic, so having a handy picnic basket or bag is important! I also recommend bringing a small cooler to keep certain food items and your drinks cold.

Here are a few suggestions:

1. Insulated and many different sizes: LIQING 35L Large Picnic Basket
2. For a more aesthetic look: Vintiquewise(TM) Rectangular Basket
3. Perfect for keep drinks and snacks cool: Everfun Small Cooler Bag

4. Delicious Food

This is arguably the most important part. What’s a picnic without good bites? There are many different directions you can go in terms of picnic food. While picking up food to-go at your favorite restaurant or snacks at your local supermarket is certainly not a bad choice, here are some fun options you can make yourself:

1. Homemade sandwiches: Simple yet delicious, you can never go wrong with a homemade sandwich and chips. Plus, these are easy to transport to wherever you may be picnicking! Whether you make tea sandwiches with cucumbers and cream cheese, big Italian subs, or ham and cheese croissant sandwiches, there are so many ways to customize your perfect sandy.
2. Chocolate Covered Strawberries: These are one of my favorite sweet treats! If you’re able to bring a cooler with you, I highly recommend whipping some of these up, as they are the perfect addition to any picnic! Again, use white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even dress them up with toffee bits or sprinkles.
3. Homemade Cookies: Another yummy sweet treat is some homemade cookies! You can go as simple or elaborate as you want, but they are easy to pack up and bring along. If you’re having a summer picnic, perhaps try a raspberry white chocolate chip or a lemon cookie. Or if you’re having a picnic in the Fall, make pumpkin oatmeal or chai cookies. The possibilities are endless.
4. Charcuterie Board: A couple summers ago I worked at a cheese & charcuterie boutique. Not only was it a wonderful learning experience, but eating the extras was a fantastic bonus. These boards are easier to create than you think! My favorite cheeses include manchego and brie with fig jam. Watch a couple tutorials if you want, but ultimately, be creative and have fun with it! Besides cheeses and meats, you can add anything from chocolates to fruits to candy! These cookie boxes are perfect for a transportable charcuterie board.

5. A Beautiful View

Lastly, a beautiful view doesn’t hurt! Not only do you have a perfect photo opportunity, but nothing beats food and view. Whether that means sitting amongst skyscrapers, gazing at a body of water, or people watching in a park, choose a place that feels right to you. This is truly a must for creating your ideal picnic aesthetic for you and your friends.

Bonus Tip:

Bring an activity. If you’re artistic, grab some water colors or an embroidery kit. You can also bring card games like Uno, Cards Against Humanity, or Monopoly Deal. It will give you and your friends something to do while you snack on your delicious food.

Related: 30 Fun and Unique Fall Bucket List Ideas to Romanticize This Season

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You’re Set!

With these essentials, you’ll surely create the most perfect picnic aesthetic, no matter the season. Grab your friends, pick a spot, and have a great time!