This summer or any summer, picnics are a fantastic way to spend time with family and friends. Here are some picnic essentials and ideas to help you plan your picnics this season.

For Toting & Seating

• Picnic basket or canvas bag

• Cooler

• Picnic blanket (preferably waterproof on the bottom)

• Picnic chairs (if anyone in your group is not happy on the ground)

• Portable picnic table (if that’s the kind of picnic you’re having!)

For Serving

• Plates

• Utensils (including serving utensils)

• Napkins

• Cups

• Drinks (including lots of water)

• Bottle opener

• Cutting board (also useful as a level serving surface, perfect for drinks)

• Sharp knife (even if you don’t plan to cut things, it’s still a good idea)

• Salt and pepper

• Mustard, mayo, ketchup, etc., if needed (a great way to make use of extra packets from a takeout place)

For Clean Up

• Paper towels (and maybe wet wipes)

• A couple of dishtowels (always handy, and useful to buffer and support dishes in transport)

• Extra plastic containers or sturdy zipper-top bags for packing up dirty utensils, leftovers, etc.

• Trash bags

Other Essentials

• Sunscreen

• Hats

• Insect repellent

• Flashlight (if you plan to be out into the evening hours)

• Sport or activity equipment (Frisbees, balls, bubbles, water guns … whatever the crowd likes)

(Essential Picnic List Via foodnetwork.com)