There is nothing quite like a picnic in the outdoors. Whether it is with family, friends, or your significant other, a picnic outing is a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature.

Although, the thought of it can be fun, it’s essential to take necessary precautions to ensure that you stay safe and enjoy your day outdoors. So, we have curated a list of 30 tips to help you make your picnic outing safe and enjoyable.

Pick the Right Location

The location of your picnic is important to make sure your outing is enjoyable. Choose one that provides ample shade, has a fresh water source nearby, and has parking facilities.

Plan Ahead

It’s important to plan ahead before heading out. Pack all the necessary supplies and equipment, such as sunscreen, trash bags, first-aid kit, insect repellent, and a cooler filled with ice to keep your food fresh.

Keep Food Safe

When it comes to picnics, food is the most crucial element. Make sure that you pack food that can withstand the temperature outside. Ensure that perishable items are kept in a cooler with plenty of ice to keep them fresh.

Always check the expiration date of packaged foods you plan to bring to ensure that they are safe to eat.

Food Preparation

Cooking the food before heading out on the picnic seems like a great idea, but it is not safe. Foods that are cooked and kept outside for an extended period can develop bacteria, which could lead to food poisoning.

Prepare the food on the day of the picnic to ensure fresh and safe food.

Be Cautious with Beverages

Alcoholic beverages and picnic outings can be a dangerous combination. It’s always best to avoid alcohol when heading out for a picnic. If alcohol is consumed, please ensure that all guests are 21 or older and drink in moderation.

Practice Sun Protection

Spending time in the sun without proper protection can be dangerous. Always apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside and every two hours after applying it. Wearing a hat and sunglasses could also protect you from the harmful sunlight.

Stay Hydrated

Having enough water throughout the picnic is critical to staying safe and healthy. Bring enough water bottles or a water dispenser. Avoid sugary drinks or drinks with high caffeine content as they can dehydrate you.

Mindful of Insects

Insects like mosquitoes, bees, and wasps can be a real pest on a picnic outing. Bring bug spray and keep sweets and juice containers covered.

Keep Your Surrounding Clean

When you’re done with the picnic, please dispose of the trash and any debris responsibly. Do not leave behind any plastic containers, utensils or paper plates. Leave the environment as you found it so others can enjoy it.

Respect the Wildlife

It’s essential to be mindful of the wildlife when on a picnic outing. Keep a safe distance from animals and refrain from feeding them, no matter how cute or harmless they seem.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Having a first aid kit on hand could save a life in case of an emergency. Familiarize yourself with the kit and know how to use it in case of an emergency.

Be Prepared for Weather Change

Before setting out for a picnic, check the weather forecast. Please be prepared for drastic changes like storms, rainfall, or high humidity. Bring shelter, like an umbrella, or a tarp, a poncho, and extra clothing.

Check for Any Fire Restriction

Before you leave for the picnic, check with the forest service or park rangers about fire restrictions in the area. If possible, avoid fire altogether and use a portable stove or gas grill for cooking instead.

Carry an Emergency Power Bank

A power bank can come in handy when you’re out on a picnic. Make sure your phone’s battery doesn’t die so that you can make any emergency calls when you need to.

Avoid Risky Activities

A picnic is all about relaxation and fun. Avoid risky activities like cliff diving and other water sports that could result in bodily harm or injury.

Bring Necessary Entertainment

Take some games or other forms of unobtrusive entertainment on your picnic with you.

Respect Others’ Privacy

When you’re out on a picnic, make sure you respect other people’s privacy and keep a respectful distance. Nobody likes to have strangers too close to their private family gatherings.

Overpacking is Better Than Underpacking

When heading out on a picnic outing, it’s better to overpack than underpack. The essential items like sunscreen, water, and snacks are useful in any outing.

Carry an Umbrella

An umbrella can come in very handy – whether it’s for shade, safety from the rain, or swatting away bugs.

Wear Suitable Clothes

Wear comfortable clothes that are suitable for outdoor activities. Make sure you’re wearing shoes that are sturdy and good for walking on uneven terrain. Also, don’t forget your sunglasses.

Don’t Forget to Pack a Map

When heading to a new location, ensure that you carry a map or download an offline version on your smartphone. Having a map will keep you on track and help you find your way back.

Familiarize Yourself with the Park Facilities

Before your picnic, familiarize yourself with the park facilities such as bathrooms, drinking water sources, and emergency services.

Watch out for Allergies

If any of your guests have allergies to certain foods or plants, let them know beforehand. Avoid bringing an ingredient that contains their allergen.

Keep an Eye on Your Children

If you’re with kids, keep your eye on them, especially in the water or around the wildlife. Carry toys and games to keep them entertained.

Bring a Good Picnic Mat

A good picnic mat is essential for any picnic outing. It provides a comfortable and level surface to sit on, and you can avoid sitting on the grass.

Carry Enough Food and Snacks

When you’re out on a picnic, ensure that you bring enough food that caters to everyone’s taste. Bring a mix of sweet and savory snacks so that people can munch on them throughout the day.

Bring Park Appropriate Money and Credit Cards

Bring money and credit cards handy with you in case you need to pay for emergency services or park entry fees in the form of a donation.

Keep Valuables Safe

Leave anything that you don’t need for the picnic, like laptops, expensive jewelry, and other electronics, at home. Make sure to keep any valuable items, like wallets, bags, and electronic devices, close to your person.

Have Fun!

At the end of the day, a picnic outing is all about enjoying the outdoors and having a good time with your loved ones. With these tips in mind, you’re all set for a safe and enjoyable outing.