12 Summer Picnic Essentials You Need for the Perfect Summer

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Picnic season is upon us! And while it may be the case that restaurants and bars will be opening up soon, we have a feeling the popularity of picnics is here to stay. You can bet it will be tough to find a reservation in the coming weeks, so why not catch up with your friends in an outdoor setting instead?

If there’s anything we’ve learned as of late, it’s how to host an awesome picnic. Trust us when we say that no good picnic happens without a bit of planning. Keep scrolling to see what we always bring along, whether we’re going to the beach or chilling in the backyard.

12 Summer Picnic Essentials to Make This Summer the Best One Yet

Cooler Bag

Business & Pleasure co, PREMIUM COOLER VINTAGE YELLOW STRIPE ($100)

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This vintage-style cooler bag is both cute and practical. Nobody likes warm drinks or sweaty grapes. But likewise, lugging around a bulky esky can be a bit of a pain. This bag solves all those problems: Magic!

Travel Wine Bottle/ Glasses

Ever brought a bottle of wine to a picnic, only to find that nobody remembered glasses? This handy kit ensures that never happens again. Plus, the insulated material means that your summer whites and rosés will stay fresh all afternoon.

Mini Truffle Hot Sauce

mini truff hot sauce — Truff, Mini Hot Sauce Pack ($50)

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All hot sauce lovers know that it just makes everything that extra bit better. Truff takes it to a new level with truffle-infused spice that’s truly unbeatable. Don’t just take our word for it, though, it’s also one of Oprah's favourites. In the mini size, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more convenient sauce to throw in your picnic basket.

Reusable Sandwich Bags

stasher sandiwch bag — Stasher, Reusable Sandwich Bag ($20)

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We all know by now that single-use plastic is not the way to go! But bringing multiple glass containers to the park can be a bit much. Thankfully, these reusable sandwich bags are just as convenient as the plastic ones, but more sustainable by a country mile.

Sliced Prosciutto

sliced proscuitto — FABBRIS, PROSCIUTTO ($20)

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To pair perfectly with your wine and cheese spread, it’s always a good idea to bring along some cured meats. This sliced prosciutto is a fan-favourite. High-quality, and perfect for grazing all day long.

Picnic Basket

No picnic is complete without a trusty picnic basket. In addition to being straight-up adorable, this picnic basket is insulated to keep its contents cool, and the lid doubles as a cheeseboard. And yes, it’s big enough to fit a bottle of champagne — we knew you were wondering.

Picnic Rug

Just as important as the picnic basket is a picnic blanket. Upgrade your usual beach towels with this lovely cotton canvas printed picnic rug. It even comes with a woven strap, for easy transport to and from your outdoor meetups.

Healthy Crackers

mary's gone crackers — Mary’s gone, herb crackers ($11)

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I know what you’re thinking. A cracker is just a cracker. Well, anyone who says so has never tried these. They sound so basic, but they’re so delicious. Even your pickiest of friends will enjoy munching on these. Best of all, they’re made with healthy whole grains and seeds — great for sneaking in a bit of extra nutrition.

Picnic Chairs

Not everyone enjoys sitting on the ground for hours at a time. If this sounds like you, this handy picnic chair may be right up your alley. Not only does it look great, but it’s also made of durable materials to last you through the summer (at least). It even collapses down, so that you can easily carry it to and fro with the attached straps.

Picnic Table

Keep your picnic somewhat tidy by investing in a portable picnic table. This option from Stanley Rodgers includes a bottle holder and slots for six wine glasses. No more messy spills!

Vegan Blue Cheese

Don’t know what to pack for your plant-based friends? This vegan blue cheese is sure to impress. Made of cashew instead of cow’s milk, it’s animal-free but just as delicious as the original.

Spiked Iced Tea

local spiked tea — local, 4 pack spiked iced tea in lemon ($24)

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If you’re over drinking beers and ciders all summer long, why not try a spiked iced tea instead. Even though spring has only just sprung, these teas from local are already gaining massive traction. Refreshing, sweet, and just about 100 calories per can. What more could you ask for?

Finska

We’re calling it: Finska is the outdoor game of the summer. First released in 2009, this eco-friendly Aussie game only continues to grow in popularity. It’s easy to play, super-addictive, and great for all ages.

Gearing up for warmer weather? Check out the summer accessories we’re shopping for now.

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