easy anytime picnic ~

Anytime is great for a picnic. Even days when you’re so busy you’ve had no time to think ahead. Or maybe especially when you’ve had no time to think ahead. 🙂 

So, take a picnic over to the pool, soccer field, park or beach and enjoy the long evening time while you can. You CAN make it special in no time, because really, it’s way more fun than eating out of a paper bag or a cardboard box!

Here are my 3 SCBD (SMALL change, BIG difference) tips for a no muss, no fuss picnic ~~~

1) Know your picnic carry-all ~ We all have things that are great for outings and picnics, but sometimes pulling them out (or even remembering where they are!) is just too much effort. Work out a couple of fool-proof carry options, keep them ready to go and then shop to those options. I have a couple of set-ups that have worked for years. The links are examples of my containers, just for reference ~ you can buy them lots of places. I love my Lock & Lock 12×12 square container with a handle. I have a round melamine dish (or a pie plate works just fine) and a few melamine bowls that fit right in and still leave room for other food. Perfect for 2 people. My other option is a similar Lock & Lock 9×13 rectangular container with handle. Same plan but with a rectangular dish and bigger bowls. Perfect for 4 people. These are always ready to go, with a few plates, utensils and napkins. No muss, no fuss.

2) Grab a to-go meal deal that fits your picnic carry-all ~ Every market has a to-go deal. Publix does a family meal deal with fried chicken and sides that is my go-to take away. I also love fruit, cheese, hummus, veggies and small sandwiches. I buy the number of items that work to my carry-all containers & sizes. Stick to what you know works! It takes maybe five minutes to arrange the food from the take-out bag to the carry-all. It is so much easier to transport ~ everything stays in its spot without spills, and no soggy bag or box. Plus, it looks nicer!

3) Have a beverage container you trust ~ Whether it’s individual water bottles, an insulated thermos, or my favorite leak-proof pitchers from this post, just have a beverage container that you can trust not to spill. For short time spans, I bring insulated cups filled with ice and a pitcher of something cold. If it’s a longer time frame, cold bottles of water and lemonade always work just fine.

One container for the food, and one bag with plates and drinks. Done! Obviously, this is meant for a near-by picnic that is quickly enjoyed. No coolers means nothing is on ice, so plan accordingly to keep the food edible. But that is kinda the plan. From “let’s eat down at the park” (or beach or pool), to making it so, with just a market stop to get the goodies. And a few tried and true SCBD tips to keep it simple and looking great!

There’s still plenty of summer to enjoy! Meet you at the pool ~~~