How to Plan the Perfect Beach Picnic

Thank you to the Chinet^® brand for sponsoring this post.

I didn't grow up around the water so I definitely don't forget how lucky I am to live near the beach. When the weather is warmer I try to spend as much time as possible around the water. The views never get old! One of my favorite things to do is to bring a picnic down to the beach and enjoy a meal with some of my favorite people with the best view around. I've got a few friends who love the beach as much as I do, and it's not uncommon for us to give each other a call, clean out our refrigerators and meet in under an hour to share whatever food we have found in our home.

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I love the planned trips to the beach too, which is why I'm sharing with you tips on how you can plan the perfect beach picnic. Not all picnic supplies are created equal, and I've tried a lot of products, which is why I'm excited to share with you my favorite Chinet® Classic White™ products because no beach picnic is the same without them. As long as you have them in stock all summer in your pantry or picnic basket, you will be ready for a picnic just about any time!

 

How to Plan the Perfect Beach Picnic

Always Be Prepared!

As a mom, I try to always be prepared because you never know what your day might look like. I like to have a back stock of supplies so I'm ready for whatever life throws at me, which could be anything! I mentioned before that I've tried a lot of different products through the years trying to get this picnic thing perfect, and well, nothing compares to the Chinet Classic White products. Chinet Classic White products offer premium strength so you don't have to worry about spills and leaks. When your lap is your table, this is important! 

Not only that, Chinet Classic White plates are made from 100% recycled material that can be composted after use and that's important to me so that we can keep our beaches looking beautiful! Cleanup is easy and convenient, you just throw away when you are done!

I have a beach basket pre-packed with Chinet Classic White plates, napkins, cups and utensils as well as a beach blanket {pick something you can wash easily because it will get dirty} and put everything in a convenient location so you can just pack your basket with food and go!

I always pack a wet washcloth in a zippered bag because washing hands in saltwater makes hands sticky. Just don't forget to remove it after your picnic or it will get pretty moldy smelling!

Beach Picnic Food

I like to pack food items that are as fun and exciting as the beach picnic itself! Fresh fruit and veggies are always a hit, just make sure you cut everything up before you go so you don't have to worry about food prep when you get to the beach.

I like to pack fresh bread, cheeses, meats and crackers as well as dips so that people can make their own sandwiches easily using the various ingredients. Of course, a fresh salad is always a welcome addition as well. 

Make sure you pack dessert too, but keep in mind warm temperatures and while I wouldn't tell you not to pack chocolate, just keep in mind that it might end up in a melted mess if you don't have a way to keep it cold.

Pack your Own Shade

Depending on what time of day you go, you might need to bring your own shade with you so you can stay out of the heat and away from harmful rays. 

Don't Forget the Water!

Many public beaches do not allow alcoholic beverages, so be prepared with an alternative. Water is a great drink to bring along so that you can stay hydrated and if you partially freeze it before you go, it can also act as an ice pack for your food.

What Not to Bring on a Beach Picnic

Keep in mind how much time you will be spending at the beach. If you will be there for the whole day, keeping things cold can be a challenge. Some cheese goes oily if it gets hot {like cheddar}, but others like French Brie taste more delicious when they are a little gooey.  Mayonnaise of course can go bad in the heat, so think of a different topping if planning to bring a sandwich or pasta salad. 

Beach picnics are a lot of fun, especially in the summer. With just a little planning, you can be beach picnic ready all summer long!  I was selected for this opportunity as a member of CLEVER and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own. Chinet® and Classic White^™ are registered trademarks of Huhtamaki, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries.