Spring means picnic season, and while picnicking in the UK is something of a risky business due to the almost constant threat of rain, it can still be fun to pack up a basket and head out to your favourite park.  A picnic can vary from a very romantic affair you share with your significant other to a day out with the family.  You can even go on a picnic by yourself if you want to get out and enjoy the crisp outdoors.

When you’re putting together a picnic, it’s important to put some thought into the food.  You don’t want to take food that will be too difficult to handle outdoors.  Most people opt to make sandwiches before heading outdoors.  However, you can also pick up some fried chicken or even fish and chips to take to the park.  Other options include bowls of fruit, crisp veggies, or even a pizza.  Try to avoid anything that takes silverware, although you can certainly take forks and such with you.  You may want to invest in paper or plastic plates and cups, though, so you don’t have to worry about breaking dishes.  If you’re taking a meal, pack it all up in a cooler to help keep it fresh.

If you plan on being outdoors for most of the day, you also want to take along food that won’t spoil quickly for a snack later.  This includes biscuits, crackers, crisps, nuts, and even things like cereal.  Most of this sounds unhealthy, but you can always substitute things like muffins and fruit.  Just don’t take anything for a snack that can’t stand being out of the fridge for too long unless you’ve packed it in a cooler with plenty of ice around it.

You will also want to take along plenty of drinks, especially if you’re planning to run around or be out in the sun.  You may even want to take a separate cooler for drinks.  In addition to soft drinks or juice, be sure to take along some water, too.

Now all you have to do is grab your picnic blanket, a Frisbee or your favourite book, and head out for a fun day outdoors!