Don’t you just think “FUN” when you hear the word “picnic”? Even though Fall and its cooler weather is upon us, there’s still a little time left in the colder regions of the country for a few more picnics — which is a good way to bid bon voyage to a great summer!
We suggest that you start a picnic checklist, improve it over time, and keep it handy for picnic or camping preparation. Here's a list to start with. Scratch out items you don't need and add others until you have the perfect list for your family. (If you keep the list on your computer, you can print out a new copy whenever you need it.)
IDEA: Keep picnic and camping items in large containers in the corner of your garage where you can grab them in a moment and be ready for an outing. (Thanks to
Prepared Pantry for this information.)
Cooler
Ice for cooler (we prefer those "blue ice" blocks that can be frozen in the freezer and reused)
Eating and serving utensils
Tablecloth or picnic blanket
Cutting board and two sharp knives-a serrated knife for bread and a paring knife to cut vegetables and other foods
Napkins and paper towels
Cleaning wipes
Moist washcloth in a zipper-type plastic bag
Hand towel
Seasonings (we keep a small plastic tub filled with seasonings plus salt and pepper)
Sugar
Condiments
Vegetable oil for cooking
Grill and propane or charcoal and fire starter
Cooking pans and utensils
Camping stove if you use one
Drinking water
Beverages
A good book and family games with which to wait out a summer storm
Repair kit (we keep a tiny repair kit with a strip of duct tape, a sewing kit, a small pocket knife, and a length of pliable wire)
Matches
Flashlight
Can opener
Insect repellant
Sunscreen
Calamine lotion
First aid kit
Roll of aluminum foil
Trash bags for refuge
Camera
Bathing suit
Folding chairs
Map
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