Picnic hikes are a fun way to enjoy a summer day, whether you’re relaxing by a mountain lake or watching the sunset from a beautiful viewpoint. But if you’ve never packed food for a hike before, you might be unsure about what to bring.
The key is to find the right balance between what you need for the hike and what you need for the picnic, while still keeping your backpack light and easy to carry.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to pack for a picnic hike and give you tips to make your adventure as fun as possible!
1. Food: Portable and Tasty Snacks
The key to a great picnic hike is choosing food that’s easy to carry, non-perishable, and enjoyable. Here are some options to consider:
Sandwiches or Wraps
Sandwiches and wraps are great choices for a picnic hike. They’re easy to make, don’t take up much space in your bag, and are filling after a long walk. You can pack them with your favorite ingredients, like turkey and cheese, or veggies and hummus. Just make sure to wrap them tightly so they don’t get squished in your backpack!
Snacks
Snacks are a must for a picnic hike! They give you quick energy while you’re hiking and are easy to munch on when you take a break. Some great snacks to pack include trail mix, granola bars, fruit like apples or oranges, and crackers. Choose snacks that won’t melt or get messy in your backpack, so they stay fresh and easy to eat on the go!
Fresh Fruit and Veggies
Fresh fruits and veggies are healthy and refreshing snacks for a picnic hike. You can pack things like baby carrots, cucumber slices, apple slices, or grapes. They’re light, full of water to keep you hydrated, and easy to eat. Just be sure to pack them in a container so they don’t get squished in your backpack!
Sweet Treats
Sweet treats are a fun way to end your picnic hike! You can bring cookies, brownies, or even a small chocolate bar. Just make sure to choose treats that won’t melt or crumble in your bag. A little something sweet is the perfect reward after a good hike!
2. Beverages: Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is super important during any hike, especially on warm days. Here’s what to pack:
Water
Water is one of the most important things to bring on a picnic hike! Staying hydrated keeps your body energized and feeling good. Pack enough water for your whole hike, and consider bringing a reusable water bottle or a hydration pack. If your hike is longer, it’s a good idea to bring extra water or a way to filter water from streams or lakes. Always drink plenty of water while hiking, especially on hot days!
Other Drinks
Besides water, you can pack other drinks to enjoy during your picnic hike. Juice boxes, sports drinks, or flavored water are great options for a tasty treat. Just remember that drinks can add extra weight to your backpack, so keep it light. Avoid sugary drinks that might make you thirsty later, and always prioritize water to stay hydrated!
Tip: Use insulated bottles to keep your drinks cool throughout the day.
3. Picnic Essentials: Keep It Convenient
You don’t need a lot of bulky items to enjoy your picnic. Here are some must-have items:
Picnic Blanket
A picnic blanket is a fun addition to your picnic hike! It gives you a comfy spot to sit and enjoy your food, whether you’re by a lake or at a scenic viewpoint. Look for a lightweight and easy-to-carry blanket that can be folded up small. Some blankets are even waterproof, so they’ll keep you dry if the ground is damp. Don’t forget to pack one for a cozy and enjoyable picnic experience!
Reusable Containers and Utensils
Reusable containers and utensils are a great way to pack your picnic food! Using containers helps keep your food fresh and prevents spills in your backpack. You can also bring reusable forks, spoons, and napkins to make clean-up easy. Choose lightweight options that won’t take up too much space. By using reusable items, you help the environment and reduce waste, making your picnic hike even better!
Trash Bags
Bringing trash bags on your picnic hike is super important! They help you clean up after your meal and keep the outdoors clean and beautiful. Always pack out what you pack in, which means taking all your trash with you when you leave. This helps protect nature and makes sure everyone can enjoy the trails. You can use a small bag for your trash and a separate one for recycling if you have recyclable items. Being responsible keeps our parks and trails nice for everyone!
4. Safety Gear: Be Prepared
Hiking safety is crucial, especially when you’re carrying extra items for a picnic. Here’s what you should have in your backpack:
Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
Bringing sunscreen and insect repellent is essential for a safe and enjoyable picnic hike!
- Sunscreen: Protects your skin from harmful sun rays. Make sure to apply it before you start hiking and reapply every couple of hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming. Look for sunscreen with a high SPF for the best protection.
- Insect Repellent: Helps keep bugs like mosquitoes and ticks away, which can be bothersome during your hike. Apply it before you head out and reapply as needed. Choosing a repellent with DEET or natural ingredients can be effective in keeping insects at bay.
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is a must-have for your picnic hike! It helps you be prepared for any minor injuries or accidents. Here are some important items to include in your kit:
- Band-aids: For cuts and scrapes.
- Gauze pads and adhesive tape: To cover larger wounds.
- Antiseptic wipes: To clean any cuts or scrapes before applying a bandage.
- Pain relievers: Like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for headaches or aches.
- Tweezers: To remove splinters or ticks if needed.
- Emergency contact information: In case someone needs help.
Having a first aid kit means you’re ready to handle small emergencies while enjoying your hike. Always check your kit before heading out to make sure everything is there and not expired!
Map or GPS
Bringing a map or GPS is super important for your picnic hike! It helps you find your way and explore safely. Here’s why you should have one:
- Map: A physical map shows trails, landmarks, and important features in the area. It’s a good idea to learn how to read a map before your hike, so you can understand where you are and where you want to go.
- GPS Device or Smartphone App: If you prefer using technology, a GPS device or a hiking app on your smartphone can help you track your location and guide you along the trail. Just make sure to download maps ahead of time in case you lose signal in remote areas.
5. Extras: Little Touches for Comfort
These extras can make your picnic hike even more enjoyable:
Portable Cooler Bag
A portable cooler bag is a great way to keep your food and drinks fresh and cool during your picnic hike! Here are some reasons to consider bringing one:
- Keeps Food Fresh: A cooler bag helps maintain the right temperature for perishable items, like sandwiches or fruits, so they stay tasty and safe to eat.
- Convenient Storage: Most cooler bags are lightweight and easy to carry. They can fit nicely in your backpack or attach to the outside
Portable Speaker
A portable speaker can add some fun to your picnic hike! Here’s why you might want to bring one along:
- Music for the Mood: Listening to your favorite songs can make your hike and picnic more enjoyable. It sets a cheerful atmosphere while you relax and eat.
- Lightweight and Easy to Carry: Many portable speakers are small and lightweight, so they fit easily in your backpack.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Most portable speakers connect to your smartphone or other devices via Bluetooth, making it easy to play your music or listen to podcasts.
