Lazy Daisy’s Picture-Perfect Picnic Checklist

When planning a picnic, it's important to gather the essential items that will ensure your outing is comfortable, enjoyable, and stress-free. Whether you’re heading to the beach, a local park or your front lawn, let Lazy Daisy’s Cafe help you prepare with a list of 25 picnic essentials for a fantastic outdoor experience:

1. Picnic Basket or Bag: First off, you must have a sturdy and spacious container to carry all your picnic items with ease. You can buy one especially for picnicking or modify a bag you already have.
   
   
2. Blanket or Mat: A good picnic blanket must be large enough for the number of people in your party plus room for food and yet pack down small enough for transportation. Waterproof backing is a bonus.
   
   
3. Utensils: Use eco friendly reusable containers, utensils, and water bottles to minimize waste and leave the picnic spot clean.
   
   
4. Napkins: Don’t forget disposable or cloth napkins for cleaning hands and wiping surfaces. Also great for stepping in to mop up spills and other messes.
   
   
5. Food and Drinks: Daisy’s homemade sandwiches, like the Mother Clucker, Hungry Farmer, BLT or any of the 'Rise' Breakfast Sandwiches are perfectly packable! Quench your thirst with our Sparkling Refreshers or perfectly brewed iced coffee.
   
   
6. Sweet Treats: At Lazy Daisy’s, we’re proud to offer the best homemade picnic perfect desserts Toronto has to offer, including brownies, cookies, and distinctly Canadian Nanaimo bars with a unique rice crispy base - you can’t get these desserts anywhere else!
   
   
7. Cooler or Insulated Bag: These items are essential to keep perishable items, like salads and drinks, cool and fresh. And, of course, ice packs to keep your cooler contents cold and safe for consumption.
   
   
8. Condiments and Seasonings: Depenfing on what you are serving at your picnic, salt, pepper, ketchup, mustard, and any other preferred seasonings may be required.
   
   
9. Trash Bags: Keep your picnic area clean by collecting and properly disposing of trash. Leave it the way it was before you got there or even cleaner!
   
   
10. Corkscrew and Bottle Opener:You can now share a glass of wine in some Toronto parks. So, check the list and bring a little bubbly, some coolers or a few beers to your picnic.
    
    
11. Reusable Water Bottles: Be sure to bring water everywhere you go in the summer. The sun can quickly dampen picnic festivities if you don’t stay hydrated.
    
    
12. Sun Protection: Unless you score a picnic shelter, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and umbrellas are necessary at most spots to shield yourself from the sun.
    
    
13. Bathing Suit & Towels: If you’re headed to the beach, towels and a swimsuit are essential. Word of advice: heed the warnings and swim before eating!
    
    
14. Insect Repellent: Your lunch can be a big draw for bugs wherever you decide to picnic. Be sure to keep food covered and pack a reliable insect repellent.
    
    
15. First Aid Kit: Bring bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications. Accidents happen especially when you’re having fun. So, be prepared.
    
    
16. Entertainment: You may want to consider taking a book, magazines, playing cards, frisbees, or other games to keep everyone entertained.
    
    
17. Portable Speaker: If you want to enjoy a little music during your picnic stash take a portable speaker with you. Or better yet invite a friend who plays the guitar.
    
    
18. Camera or Smartphone: Don't forget your camera or smartphone to capture candid moments and beautiful surroundings.
    
    
19. Reusable Containers: If you have the space, a few reusable containers to store leftovers or uneaten food can be helpful to reduce waste.
    
    
20. Cutting Board and Knife: Handy for cutting fruits, vegetables, and other items, be sure to protect yourself from the sharp edge. Use a guard or wrap in a tea towel.
    
    
21. Wet Wipes or Hand Sanitizer: These must-have picnic items keep hands clean and fresh when no soap and water are available.
    
    
22. Map or GPS: If you're heading to a new location, ensure you have directions. Wifi can be intermittent in remote locations. Take a picture of your route, just in case.
    
    
23. Extra Clothing: While this may seem over the top, the weather can be unreliable. If possible bring an extra layer (and an umbrella).
    
    
24. Pet Supplies: If you're bringing a furry friend along, remember to pack their picnic essentials like extra water, a water bowl, poop bags and a leash.
    
    
25. Portable Grill or BBQ Equipment: If you plan on cooking at the picnic spot and haven’t secured a picnic shelter with a BBQ, you’ll have to bring one with you.