Your PIcnic Hamper Guide

Mother's Day issues in the Spring picnic season.There's nothing like a day out whether at your favorite beach or park. It means fresh air and a change from eating inside. Just make sure you have some of the basics  namely a good hamper.before you hit the great outdoors

One of the most important items to have is some kind of container to haul the food and drinks.Size matters if you like to have a big, meal with sides.then splurge for an English style hamper. These come complete with metal cutlery, wine glasses (!) and pretty cloth  napkins. Salt and pepper shakers and even a bottle opener are included. The price is a good one - forty three dollars on Amazon. The hamper is made from sturdy wicker which will last for years. It's deep enough for a bottle  - or can. of wine along with a whole roast chicken and sides. Family and friends can definitely dine in style with it. A more practical one is from Scuddles which comes in a form of a large backpack. This is weather resistant and can take a few drops and dings.Like other hampers it comes complete with all the accoutrements you need for a successful picnic. It is insulated so you can bring both hot and cold foods and drinks with you. The price is reasonable -only forty-seven dollars on Amazon.One of my favorites is Igloo's Soft Cooler which is no bigger than a lunch box. It is deep and it can hold two sandwiches , two  sandwich full sandwich bags of either fruit or veggies and a sixteen ounce  can of soda. It's perfect for a small picnic and it's easy to tote around.It was around nine dollars from Stop & Shop.

If you're planning on a big picnic that requires a barbecue, then think about what's known as a hard cooler. This is a container made from a sturdy kind of plastic and come in a variety of different sizes. It's perfect for bringing marinated chicken and steaks along with hamburgers and hot dogs.These also keep bowls of refrigerated sides nice and cool too.Keep in mind that the bigger the container the higher the price. Coolers will last  for a long time if you take good care of them.Igloo also makes stainless steel ones that not only guarantee a long life but a completely chill meal. These are used for hauling drinks around and they're usually seen at tailgate parties. You can bring them to the park if you have meats to grill or to the beach , filled with water and seltzer.Another aspect to consider if you want one on wheels or a convenient carry around.If you plan big dos outdoors , then get the one on wheels. If it's  just a few sandwiches and small containers  then think about a carrier  that is half the size and weight.

A picnic doesn't start with food. It starts with the containers that bring the food. There is a wide variety to choose from. Pick one that suits your needs and will last a long time.