PACK-AND-GO TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL PICNIC

TICK THE RIGHT BOX

Use airtight containers. This isn’t just tokeepthingsattheirbestbutalsoto stop leaks and spillages ruining your picnic basket or cool bag.

NO STICKY FINGERS

Don’t forget to pack napkins and hand wipes: both essential.

NO BITES OR STINGS

Packcitronellacandles(and matches) and insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay.

NO BREAKAGES

Invest in eco-friendly melamine plates and reusable wine glass-style plastic glasses. Apart from anything else, drinking chilled fizz or rosé outofaflimsywhiteplasticcupjust doesn’t cut it.

KEEP IT COOL

Vacuum flasks aren’t just for keeping things warm: use them to carry chilled fruity punch or Pimm’s without spillages. If you want to serve ice in your drinks, put the cubes in a Thermos flask to stop them melting or in an airtight container in a cool box. Freeze soft drinks in plastic bottles to double up as ice blocks. They will keep the food cool while they slowly defrost – and they should be perfectly chilled by the time you want to drink them.

AND DON’T FORGET...

• Bin liners to take away rubbish and to put down on the grass before laying out your picnic rug if it’s been raining. • A portable speaker – if music’s your thing.

• Twinkly fairy lights – for gatherings that roll on into the evening.

• A large umbrella or two – in case of showers or ( joy) too much sunshine. • A sharp knife for cutting and slicing (Kuhn Rikon makes a variety of knives that come with a safety sleeve; kuhnrikon.co.uk).

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