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How To Pack Your Own Picnic Hamper

18 Jul 2022 by Sophie White

Read time: 6 mins.

 

Picnics seem to be synonymous with British summertime. But did you know that modern-day picnics were first seen in France?

After opening their royal parks to the public following a revolution in 1789, the ‘pique-nique’ became a fashionable French social occasion for which all guests would bring food to enjoy.

As many aristocrats fled France, they took their pique-nique traditions with them, leading to growing popularity on British shores.

Despite coming from a lavish origin, picnics can be as simple or as decadent as you desire.

Fancy a gourmet picnic basket that’s ready to go? We offer picnic hamper delivery UK wide. 

The important thing is to have food you enjoy and great company, whether that be through a picnic with friends, a picnic with family or a picnic for one with a good book.

 

But how do you create your own picnic hamper? Here are our top tips.

 

1. Choose your picnic container

A picnic basket or backpack are great ways to store your items and keep them secure on route to your picnic location.

If you would like to keep your drinks cool or are taking any refrigerated items, you’ll also need to think about bringing some ice packs or a cool bag, which can be placed inside your picnic basket.

When building your own picnic hamper, you’ll also need to consider:

  • Is the picnic box sturdy enough to keep bottles and heavy items secure?
     
  • Is there enough room for everything you want to take (including crockery, utensils and blankets)?
     
  • Which style would you like? If you want the feeling of a traditional picnic or a quintessential picnic look for photos, you could choose a wicker basket. There are also plenty of canvas, tartan, bamboo and multi-coloured fabric baskets on the market, all of which make for a charming picnic aesthetic.

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A picnic basket, backpack or cooler box are all suitable options for storing your picnic treats.

 

2. Fill your picnic box or basket with food and tipples

What food is good for picnics?

When deciding what to put in a picnic hamper it’s important to take into consideration the occasion for your picnic and who will be in attendance.

  • Planning a romantic picnic? Picnics for couples could include a bottle of wine, a tub of strawberries and some chocolate for sharing
     
  • Planning a picnic with the kids? Picnics for toddlers and children could include small portions of fruit, sandwiches and sweets for dessert
     
  • Planning a picnic for a special occasion? Picnics for Mother’s Day, birthdays or anniversaries could include a bottle of bubbly for toasting
     
  • Planning a picnic with the dogs? Picnics with a pup could include some canine-friendly treats so they don’t go munching all your snacks


The classic staples of homemade sandwiches, crisps, scotch eggs and sausage rolls are sure to be enjoyed but if you’re planning a more luxurious affair, you could also include some deli items.

A selection of cheeses, breads, dips and olives will make your picnic a splendid summer feast.
 

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Make it a luxury picnic with some artisan nibbles and a bottle of bubbly.

Beers, ciders and wines are a perfect addition for a weekend picnic for adults, whilst soft drinks, such as sparkling elderflower, are a refreshing choice for non-drinkers. 

Make sure to wrap any bottles carefully and places these towards the bottom of your picnic hamper box or basket in case of any leakages.

Juice boxes are a sensible addition for picnics with children or non-drinkers as they are compact and ready portioned.

 

3. It’s time to add in your picnic accessories

Next, fill your homemade picnic hamper with plates, cutlery, cups, a blanket and any other essentials you’ll need.

  • A picnic or beach blanket is ideal for comfort and keeping your clothing clean on any damp or muddy ground
     
  • Include enough cutlery for everyone attending
     
  • Add in crockery for a luxury picnic or paper plates and cups to keep your basket light
     
  • Making a day of it? Pop a book or deck of cards in your basket for some afternoon entertainment
     
  • Hosting an anniversary picnic or a first date picnic? A bunch of flowers are a charming addition to a romantic picnic
     
  • Taking the kids with you? Remember to bring some games or toys to keep them entertained
     

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Remember to bring plates, glasses and cutlery to enjoy your picnic food hamper with.

 

4. Tuck in and enjoy your homemade picnic

Now it’s time to find your picnic spot and enjoy!

You could choose to set up your picnic in a local park, nature reserve or even your garden.

If you’re looking for ideas on where to go for picnics in London or picnics in Birmingham, check out our top suggestions here

 

We’d love to see your best picnic hamper efforts! Don’t forget to tag us on our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts with a picture of your homemade picnic hampers.

Any other essential picnic items we’ve missed or top tips we’ve missed on what to put in a picnic hamper or how to create your own picnic hamper? Let us know on our social channels.

Facebook - @britishhamper

Instagram - @britishhamperco

Twitter - @BritishHamper

Fancy a luxury picnic hamper without all the fuss or looking for picnic hamper gift ideas? Take a look at our beautifully crafted range of British artisan food gifts for picnics.

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Find the perfect picnic hamper to order for your summertime picnic in our picnic hamper UK range.