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It’s finally that time of year where you can bring your family outdoors to enjoy the warm and sunny weather! Having a picnic with your family and friends is a great way to enjoy a meal, try new foods, and be outdoors. Plus, packing your own food means healthier options and more money saved. Because your kitchen won’t be easily accessible, it’s important to plan ahead to make sure you have everything you need. Read on to see what you’ll need for an easy, delicious, and safe family picnic.
| Packing for a picnic! | |
| Cooler | For storing lunch and snacks. Make sure to keep cold foods cold by putting one or two ice packs inside. |
| Food | Keep it simple and pack easy items you can eat with your hands such as apples, watermelon slices, strawberries, sandwiches, trail mix, sliced cucumbers with hummus, carrot sticks, and cheese sticks. |
| Blanket | For spreading out on the grass. |
| Plates, garbage bags,paper towels, bug spray and hand sanitizer | It’s easy to forget these important items! |
| Toys | Because kids can only be entertained by lunch for so long. Bring along a kickball, jump rope, or Frisbee to let them get a good dose of physical activity. Music and bubbles are also entertaining! |
| Sunscreen | Avoid sunburns by applying sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply often. |
| Water Bottles | It’s easy to get dehydrated when spending time outdoors. Pack everyone their own special water bottle and don’t forget to fill it with ice! |
For more information on food safety, please visit: http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Food/FoodborneIllnessContaminants/UCM239489.pdf
Written By:
Meaghan Sutherland, RD, LDN, CLC
Nutrition Education Specialist for the Massachusetts WIC Program
Nutrition Education Specialist for the Massachusetts WIC Program
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