Art of Picnicking: What to pack for a perfect outdoor feast

In today's fast-paced world, it is easy to overlook the simple joys in life. With endless digital distractions, work commitments, and social obligations, many people rarely take the time to disconnect and enjoy the present moment.

One of the simplest and most rewarding ways to do this is by going on a picnic.

Well, picnics are more than just a fun outing, they offer a wide range of physical, mental, and social benefits that can positively impact your well-being.

Let us explore how you can prepare and get what you need.

What to pack:

· Kiondo (woven basket), tote bag, or cooler bag

· Ice packs (for perishable items and drinks)

· Trash bags (for cleanup)

Food and snacks

· Fruits; Mangoes, pineapples, bananas, watermelon, or oranges

· Snacks; Mahamri, viazi karai, mandazi, biscuits, or bhajia

· Street food favourites; samosas, or smokies with kachumbari

· Staples; Chapati wraps (with nyama, beans, or veggies)

· Pilau or biryani (easy to pack in containers)

· Pizza or fries

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· Roasted or fried chicken (kienyeji or broiler)

· Mukimo or githeri (as a hearty meal option)

· Salad

· cake

Drinks

· Bottled water or fresh coconut water

· Fresh juice (passion, mango, or tamarind)

· Soda (Stoney, Fanta Blackcurrant, or Coca-Cola)

· Yoghurt

· Traditional drinks like mursik (fermented milk) or dawa (honey, lemon, ginger tea)

Utensils

· Reusable plates, cups, and spoons

· Serviettes or wet wipes

· Toothpicks

Comfort and Setup

· Leso, shuka, or Maasai blanket (for sitting)

· Portable folding chairs (optional)

· Sunglasses, hats, or an umbrella for shade

· Sunscreen (especially for outdoor parks)

· Mosquito repellent (for bushy or lake-side areas)

· Power bank

Entertainment

· Bluetooth speaker for music

· Playing cards or a board game

· Football or badminton

· Storybooks or magazines (for a relaxing read) and journal

· A camera or phone for capturing moments

Spending time outdoors, especially in natural settings, has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

Nature provides a peaceful environment that allows you to take a break from the overwhelming noise of daily life.

A picnic offers the perfect opportunity to bond with family and friends. Without the usual distractions of technology and work, people are more likely to engage in meaningful conversations.

Whether you are reminiscing about the past or making plans for the future, sharing a meal outdoors strengthens relationships and creates lasting memories.

All you need is a blanket, some food, and a nearby park or green space.

Picnics can also be an opportunity to teach kids and adults alike about sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Bring reusable utensils, containers, and eco-friendly packaging to reduce waste. Encourage them to leave no trace and respect nature.

So the next time you feel overwhelmed or disconnected, consider packing a basket and heading to your local garden space. You might just find that a simple picnic is all you need to recharge and reconnect.