How To Find The Best Picnic Basket For This Summer!
Design
There are a range of picnic basket designs available from traditional wicker baskets to plastic insulated styles. Traditional wicker baskets often contain everything you need for your picnic. Many include china plates and metal cutlery so you can picnic in style. These baskets also keep the cutlery and china safe in transit as they have straps to hold everything securely in place.
Insulated options do not usually include dining accessories. However, they have plenty of room for food and keep your picnic cool for hours. They are also durable and easy to clean. These are a great option for family picnics as you can take along your own child-friendly plastic cups, plates and cutlery.
Size
The size picnic basket you choose depends on how many people will be attending your picnic. Having a nice large-sized picnic basket can allow you to take lunch and snacks so it is worth considering if you want a slightly larger size than you need for just one picnic. With picnic sets, you will find they come with enough plates and cutlery for two or four people.
Material
Materials are an important component to consider when purchasing your picnic basket. If you are after a traditional picnic basket then look for good quality wicker. This gives it a traditional look and feel. It’s important that the wicker is of good quality as this will help it to hold up when being transported. Wicker baskets often come with a foil liner to keep the food cool.
If you choose an insulated basket, look for one that has a foil lining as this will help it to maintain its temperature for longer periods of time. A sturdy basket will help keep your food in perfect condition while you transport it, so look for one with an aluminium frame.
Compartments
Having interior compartments can help you to organize and manage your picnic baskets. Some come with no compartments and this isn’t necessarily a bad thing as you can use your own containers. This can make keeping your picnic basket clean and organized easy.
Some have compartments to help with specialized tasks, for example, an insulated basket might have an ice pouch. This keeps condensation from the ice packs getting into your food.
If you choose a complete picnic set, look for good quality straps for your cutlery and plates help to keep everything in your basket organized and secure in transit.
Some picnic baskets come with an additional bottle cooler which can be stored in the basket or separately.
Easy to carry
Having a good handle can make transporting your picnic basket to your picnic location comfortable and easy. Some baskets use simple wooden handles, and these can be comfortable and strong. Another good option is baskets with leather straps that are soft and durable. This makes carrying your basket and a comfortable and pleasant experience. Insulated picnic baskets often have aluminium carry handles, and these are robust and comfortable to carry.
Insulation
Insulation is a key part of your picnic basket, especially if you plan on being in the great outdoors all day. Wicker baskets often have an insulating liner whereas insulated baskets are fully insulated and will keep food cool for hours. Pop in a few ice packs before you leave to make sure your food stays cool and safe to eat.
Conclusion
Picnic baskets are a great addition to a day out. They allow you to enjoy eating al fresco whenever you choose. This way you can avoid the queues at cafes, save money and enjoy all your favourite picnic foods. Whether you want a practical insulated picnic basket or a traditional hamper with china plates for a luxury picnic experience there’s sure to be a perfect picnic hamper for you.
My favourite is the Luxury 4 Person Wicker Chiller Picnic Hamper Basket as it includes china plates, metal cutlery and a traditional wicker basket so you can picnic in style.
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