What to Pack for a Picnic: 7 Essentials

One of my hats is that of a writer for Delysia Chocolatier, a fabulous chocolate company based in Austin, Texas. The following is an excerpt from an article I wrote for their blog recently. Since the weather is finally breaking here in Chicago, I’d like to pass on this picnic checklist to Chicagoings’ readers. Grab a basket and head to the park with these 7 essentials.

See also: {Ask a Local} 3 Places in Chicago and 14 Songs for a Summer Picnic

What is it that makes spring picnics so special? Perhaps it’s the sun beaming down on our face, the warm breeze kissing our skin, or the beautiful birdsongs gifting the air. Plan your most romantic picnic yet with this go-to checklist.

What to pack for a picnic: 7 Essentials

1. A water-resistant blanket. The ground’s wet with fresh dew, and at least one drop of wine is bound to find itself outside of your glass. Invest in a well-made water resistant blanket to alleviate any big spill-induced anxiety. Extra points if you decide to make your own.
2. A compartmentalized basket. Lugging more than a few shopping bags to the park can strain both your back and the mood. Keep it simple and organized with a great picnic basket. The perfect tote should be lined, with a separate space for chilling wine, charcuterie, and neatly hidden utensils.
3. Chinaware you don’t mind breaking. Form your own set of mismatched plates and utensils, specifically for picnicking. You won’t be too upset if one piece gets broken or goes missing, and the old-school charm will add a bit more romance to your spread.

4. A bottle of your favorite wine + two glasses + a corkscrew! Okay, that’s actually four things. Grab your favorite red or white and two real glasses. Wine just isn’t the same sipped from a plastic cup. Oh, and don’t forget about the corkscrew!

5. A charcuterie and cheese assortment. Fine sausages and a rich cheese variety will keep any nibbler satisfied. Pair this with the wine you’re bringing.

6. Fresh fruit. We recommend grapes, seedless cherries, and berries which are perfect for snacking.

To continue reading visit Delysia.com.

1. Acapulco Picnic Blanket by SunnyLife// 2. Bamboo Picnic Basket from Bed Bath & Beyond // 3. Coastal Coral Dinner Plates from Williams-Sonoma // 4. Picnic Wine Stakes by Dot & Bo// 7. Wine Truffles by Delysia Chocolatier