Picnic Packing Checklist

Food and Beverages

• Casual foods, preferably sandwiches or other things you can eat without utensils

  Avoid foods with mayonnaise. Pack everything in lightweight, resealable containers.

• Ice pack or bags of ice

  Food can spoil and harbor bacteria when not stored at the right temperature. Keep everything cold with refreezable ice packs, or fill a couple of resealable bags with ice cubes: They'll chill food as it's transported. Add ice cubes to drinks during the picnic. Empty out whatever remains before you go, for a lighter trip home.

• Drinks

  Bring an assortment of kid-friendly and adult beverages, such as bottled water and juice.

• Condiments

  Some ketchups and mustards come in mini jars that are small enough to throw in your tote. (Keep the jars to refill at home for your next picnic.)

• Salt and pepper

  Allow everyone to season their food to their liking on the spot.

Tableware

• Cups and plates

  Whether you choose eco-friendly paper, plastic, or bamboo, lightweight, stackable dishes make packing easy. Tip: Stalk Market plates ($4 for 15) are made from renewable sugar cane fiber.

• Utensils, if needed

  Opt for reusable utensils.

• Serving utensils, if needed

  If you're serving salads, you may need tongs or serving spoons.

• Cutting knife

  Look for one with a cover for safe transporting. Or wrap the blade in a kitchen towel.

• Small cutting board

  It's always handy to have a firm surface for slicing meat, cheese, and bread.

• Corkscrew or bottle opener

  Or both.

• Napkins

  If you prefer not to use cloth, look for ones made of recycled paper or other materials.

Cleanup

• Trash bags

  Don't leave a mess behind. Dispose of everything you bring to the picnic site.

• Moist towelettes

  When you don't have access to running water, these make it easy to wash up after eating.

• Paper towels

  Keep a roll on hand for mopping up spills and wiping bowls, containers, plates, and utensils before you pack them back up.

Miscellaneous

• Blanket

  It should be large enough to comfortably hold all your picnic-goers and food. A light one that folds small is a bonus.

• Tote, backpack, or picnic basket

  Stow everything in a lightweight, roomy carrier.