How to Pack the Perfect Picnic Hamper

A picnic is the perfect way to spend time with your loved one or even the entire family. What you pack in your picnic hamper can really determine whether you have a good picnic or not. Packing a picnic hamper takes a little skill and there is somewhat of an art to it.

Things You'll Need

• Picnic hamper
• Food
• Beverages
• Silverware
• Tablecloth or ground cover
• Food containers
• Garbage bag
• Napkins
• Plastic sandwich bags
• Ice packs

Instructions

1. Get an accurate count of how many people will be attending the picnic with you. This will be key as to how much food to pack. If there are just two people, then you can make some sandwiches or grill some chicken. Make a list of what you intend to make focusing on an appetizer, an entree or sandwich, dessert and a beverage or two for each person.

2. Purchase plastic containers at the store for the food that you will be taking on the picnic. This will prevent everything from getting crushed and keep food from spoiling as well. Most of these containers can also be reused.

3. Place the cold, perishable food into the basket surrounded by the ice packs. Make certain that all lids are secure.

4. Pack the plates in sideways in the center of the picnic basket. This will give you a divider between the perishable and non-perishable foods in the hamper.

5. Place the drinks in the side of the hamper secured against the food. Find places where you can fit them securely. You can place the drinks inside the cups to save a little more room.

6. Throw a Frisbee in the picnic hamper. Depending on where you will be picnicking at, this may be the perfect time to get in a little exercise and work off that lunch.

7. Place the folded up ground cover on top of everything and close the lid to the hamper. When you open the picnic hamper, it will be easy to grab the cover and lay it on the ground before setting up your picnic.

Tips & Warnings

• Pack a little something extra for a nice touch such as a small vase with a single flower.

• It is always best to bring that is easy to eat. It is hard to cut food with plastic knives.

• It is best to keep everything refrigerated until the last minute to prevent any spoilage.

• Make certain that your picnic basket is sturdy and can hold food, silverware and plates.

• Never pack more than you need. Try to pack the perfect amount of food. Nothing is worse than having to cart extra food around and there may not be a place to throw it away.