When spring is in the air, we all want to spend more time outside. During the cooler part of the year, having parties or get-togethers indoors is okay. But, when spring comes around, we all want to shake off the cobwebs and enjoy the outside.
Why not arrange a picnic or an outing? Invite your friends and family to celebrate that spring has finally arrived.
Everything You Need to Know About Picnics and Outings
When it comes to arranging a picnic or outing, there are a few things you need to bear in mind. Let’s find out more.
Location, Location, Location
In Australia, we are spoiled for choice as far as locations for picnics or outings go.
If you live close to the coast, you can head for the beach. Many beaches in Australia have public picnic facilities you can enjoy. Make sure there is availability. Some locations are popular and there may be picnic locations that would like you to book ahead.
Larger cities in Australia such as Melbourne and Brisbane have beautiful parks you can visit. Many of the parks have picnic facilities you can access for free.
Having tables and benches already set up is an added bonus.
What Food Should You Bring?
It is best to bring food that is long-lasting and easy to eat. If you are visiting a park with barbecue facilities, you can indulge in a bit of cooking if you like.
However, if you are arranging a picnic or outing without barbecue facilities, it is a good idea to bring prepared food.
The best picnic food choices include:
- Potato salad
- Cold meats
- Quiches
- Deviled eggs
- Salad
- Cold pizza
- Cold meatloaf
- Pasta salads
Safety Is Important
If you are arranging a freestyle picnic, safety is crucial. In particular, this is true if you bring your own barbecue.
Fires take hold quickly whether you are cooking on the beach or in the bush. It is a good idea to bring a fire extinguisher to make sure that you can deal with incidents as quickly as possible.
Also, make sure that you set up your picnic in a safe area. As you know, there are plenty of Australian critters that don’t make the perfect uninvited guests or visitors.
Stay Comfortable
When you want to sit on the ground, you need to make sure you bring ground cover.
Blankets are great, but only bringing blankets or throws may mean you end up doing unwanted laundry when you come home. Investing in a ground sheet is a good idea.
Once you have put your ground sheet down, all you have to do is put your blankets or throws on top.
For less agile picnic guests, it is a nice idea to bring camping chairs. Collapsible camping tables are nice for keeping food on. That way, you keep food items off the ground.
The Best Drinks for Picnics
Bringing alcoholic beverages to picnics is okay. But, you have to remember that not everybody likes a drink.
Also, If it is very hot, drinking alcohol quickly causes dehydration. It is best to bring a selection of beverages. Don’t forget to bring water – this is perhaps the most important beverage to pack in your cool box.
The Best Sweet Treats For A Picnic
If you are planning on bringing sweet treats and cakes, it is best to choose cakes and treats that don’t spoil.
Biscuits such as a selection of cakes, macarons and jam fancies are great for picnics. They are easy to pack and you can order them in boxes. All you have to do is pick up your box and put it with the rest of your picnic foods.
Danishes are also great for picnics. The choice of Danish-style pastries includes cornettos and brioche. Both are excellent for picnics and outings.
Share the Cost of the Picnic
Surprisingly, it is easy to splash the cash on picnics. Before you know it, you have spent as much as you would going out for a 5-star meal.
Even if it is a special celebration, it is best to set a budget.
If you are just arranging a picnic to celebrate Halloween or other fun occasions, it is a good idea to ask guests to contribute. There is absolutely no harm in asking others to bring food, cakes or sweet treats.
Also, don’t forget to cater for picnic guests with food allergies or special dietary requirements such as Halal, Kosher or dairy-free.
What Occasions Are Great for Picnics?
Picnics are not only a great way to get together just to have some fun and play games.
If you have a special occasion coming up, you may also want to consider them for birthdays.
Why not have a wedding picnic? It sounds crazy, but a picnic is a great way of celebrating a wedding or engagement.
Picnics and outings are also great for birthday celebrations – especially kids’ birthday parties. Just remember to order a children’s cake and plan a few party games.
Wrapping It Up
There is no doubt about it – a spring picnic or outing is a fantastic way to make the most of this time of the year.
Sure, you can have a picnic in the summer, but with rising global temperatures, a spring picnic is a more comfortable option.
