Best Picnic Food Ideas for Your Next Outing

Whether you’re going on a casual picnic or planning a fancy picnic celebration, check out these eight best picnic food ideas that are perfect for munching on the picnic blanket.

Best picnic food ideas for your next outing.

Best Picnic Food Ideas

When wondering what type of food to bring on your picnic, consider the following points:

1. Easy to Transport 

Opt for foods that are easy to transport and won’t spoil quickly.

Foods such as sandwiches, fruits, and crackers are not only delicious but are some great picnic options.

2. Food Temperature 

Another great quality for a “Picnic food”, is the fact that it can be served at room temperature or cold to avoid refrigeration.

To keep cold items cold on your way to the picnic, pack them in coolers, containers with ice packs, or insulated cold bags.

3. There’s no “Strict” Picnic Foods

Based on the general tips above, feel free to bring any food of your choice to the picnic.  

As long as the items are easy to transport and will not spoil/melt while outside, then bring things that are delicious to you.

That can mean: rice bowls, cookies, pasta salads, and even desserts!

RELATED: 39 Desserts Perfect for a Summer Picnic

Cookies as one of the best picnic food ideas.

4. Consider Prepared Food Items

You do not have to spend a lot or even any time in the kitchen prepping for your picnic.

You can swing by your local grocery store, pick up some sandwiches from the deli, grab a few sodas and cookies, and head straight to your picnic spot.

If you’re feeling fancy, you can order takeout from your favorite restaurant and enjoy it at the picnic.

After all, picnics are all about soaking up the great outdoors, savoring delicious eats, and simply reveling in the joy of being outside.

You may also like: How to Plan a Picnic With Friends

Simple Picnic Food Ideas

5. Sandwiches

Sandwich for picnic.

Kicking off the list, are sandwiches.

They’re easy to pack, don’t require utensils, and you can create all sorts of sandwiches with different fillings.

RELATED: 20 Sandwiches Perfect For Your Next Picnic

6. Salads

Pasta Salad

From pasta to veggie, salads are another great and refreshing option for picnics. 

7. Fresh Fruit

To satisfy your sweet tooth, bring along a selection of fresh fruits like strawberries, pineapple, and grapes.

Check out: 26 Healthy and Refreshing Fruit Recipes

8. Cheese and Crackers

There’s something about the pairing of cheese, crackers, fruits, and nuts that just goes so well together.

Cheese and crackers aren’t just delicious; you can assemble them on a cute charcuterie board that becomes a tasty centerpiece for the picnic blanket.