The Ultimate Guide to the Perfect Picnic (Solo, with Kiddos, or Your Gal Pals!)

The Ultimate Guide to the Perfect Picnic (Solo, with Kiddos, or Your Gal Pals!)

May is finally here, and that means it’s time to shake off the cozy indoor feels and get ourselves outside! There’s something magical about enjoying fresh air, yummy food, and a moment to slow down—and a picnic is the perfect way to do that. Whether you’re planning a solo date with your journal, some quality time with your kiddos, or a laid-back hangout with your bestie, I’ve got all the tips and tricks you need to make your picnic simple, fun, and totally stress-free.

Let’s dive in!

1. Decide What Kind of Picnic Vibes You’re Going For

First things first—what’s style of picnic?

-Solo time? Bring your journal, a good book, or some paints and treat yourself to a little quiet in the sun.

-Kiddo adventure? Grab some snacks and bubbles and let them run wild at a park while you kick back.

Gal pal catch-up? Bring the snacks, something fun to sip on, and maybe a game or two—instant quality time.

Whatever your picnic goals are, we’re here for them.

Step 2: Let’s Talk FOOD (a.k.a. the star of the show)

Food is the most important part of a picnic—no question. Here are some of my favourites:

🍓 Fruit Galore: Grab whatever’s in season—berries, watermelon, pears… wash them up and pop them into glass jars if you’ve got time. It’s a small thing, but it makes it feel so intentional.

🥐 Croissants or Baked Treats: If you’ve got a local bakery you love, stop by and grab something special. If not, grocery store baked goods work just fine (let your kiddos pick their own for extra fun!). More of a savory girl? Throw together a mini charcuterie board with some cheese, meats, and crackers—super simple, super cute.

Drinks: I love bringing a thermos of hot tea or coffee, but if it's warm out, San Pellegrinos feel fancy and refreshing. Whatever makes it feel like a treat to you.

🍕 No-Fuss Option: Listen—if you’re short on time, just grab a hot pizza on the way and call it good. Pizza at the beach? Absolute perfection.

Feeling a little extra? Here are some easy recipes I love for a picnic lunch:

Thai Peanut Noodle Salad

Croissant Havarti & Turkey Sandwich

Cowboy Caviar

Snackle Box Ideas

P.S. I’ve got all my fave picnic supplies (and some fun extras!) linked over on my Amazon storefront, in case you want to peek at what I use in the photos! 

Step 3: Choose Your Spot

You don’t need anything fancy—just a good view and a little space to spread out!

-A beach or lake view? Yes please.

-A big grassy field? Perfect.

Step 4: Add a Little Something Fun

Snacks are important—but don’t sleep on the activities! Here are some of my go-tos for making your picnic even better:

-Bring some paints or a sketchbook and draw what’s around you (or collage your week!).
-Journaling is always a good idea—especially with a cozy drink and a little quiet.
-Join the Cheerful Colouring Club! Whether you're solo, with your kids, or just chatting with a friend, colouring is such a relaxing, fun way to be present.
-Games! Monopoly Deal, Crib, Skip-Bo, Yahtzee—easy to pack and perfect for outdoors.

So there you have it! A no-stress guide to pulling off the cutest, easiest picnic that feels fun, intentional, and a little bit special. All you really need is a blanket, a few snacks, and a bit of sunshine.

Now go pack that basket and get outside—your dream picnic is waiting! 🌤️

 

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