The summer picnic is a cherished British tradition, to enjoy the splendour of the outdoors whilst indulging in a delightful array of food and drink. However, a well-packed picnic basket can make all the difference between a pleasant alfresco dining experience and a less-than-ideal one. Before you set out on your picnicking excursion, we'll guide you through the process of properly packing a picnic basket, ensuring that your next outdoor feast is nothing short of spectacular.

Finding the Right Picnic Basket

The first step in creating the perfect picnic is selecting the right basket. Opt for a sturdy, well-insulated hamper that will keep your food and drinks at the desired temperature. Regency Hampers offers a range of exquisite picnic baskets, each crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail. Our handmade willow baskets, complete with luxurious leather straps and brass fittings, are not only functional but also add a touch of sophistication to your outdoor dining experience.

For those seeking the ultimate in picnic luxury, our Luxury Fitted Picnic Hamper Basket for 6 is an excellent choice. This stunning hamper comes complete with a deluxe cooler compartment with zip, ensuring your food and drinks remain perfectly chilled. The hamper also includes a protective cardboard outer and an insulating duffel bag for your wine, ensuring safe arrival at your picnic destination.

Packing Food

When it comes to packing food for your picnic, the key is to choose items that are easy to transport and won't spoil quickly. Sandwiches, quiches, and salads are all excellent options, as they can be prepared ahead of time and don't require reheating. Be sure to wrap each item securely in cling film or aluminium foil to prevent them from drying out or becoming soggy. If you're including any perishable items, such as cheese or meats, be sure to pack them in an insulated cool bag with ice packs to keep them fresh.

Packing Drinks

No picnic is complete without a refreshing selection of summery drinks. Whether you prefer a crisp white wine, a refreshing gin and tonic, or a non-alcoholic option like elderflower cordial, it's essential to pack your drinks carefully to avoid any spills or breakages. Use insulated bottles or flasks for hot drinks, and consider decanting your favourite tipples into plastic or metal containers to reduce the risk of glass breakages. Don't forget to pack a bottle opener, corkscrew, and any necessary mixers or garnishes.

Keeping Food & Drink Warm or Cold

One of the most important aspects of packing a picnic basket is ensuring that your food and drinks remain at the desired temperature. For hot dishes, use insulated containers or wrap them in several layers of aluminium foil to retain the heat. Cold items should be packed in an insulated cool bag with ice packs, which will keep them chilled for several hours. If you're planning a longer picnic or expecting particularly warm weather, consider packing additional ice packs to ensure your food and drinks remain at a safe temperature throughout the day.

Layering your Picnic Basket

To maximise space and prevent any items from becoming crushed, it's important to layer your picnic basket carefully. Start by placing heavier items, such as bottles and jars, at the bottom of the basket, and then add a layer of insulation, such as a tea towel or napkin. Next, add your food items, starting with the sturdiest containers and working your way up to the more delicate items. Finally, top off your basket with any lightweight items, such as bread rolls or crackers, and secure the lid tightly to prevent any items from falling out during transport.

Our Luxury Fitted Picnic Hamper is designed with separate compartments for each item, ensuring everything remains perfectly organised and secure during transport. It also contains a deluxe cooler compartment also ensures your food and drinks remain at the perfect temperature.

Pre-packed Picnic Options

For those who prefer a more convenient option, we offer a range of pre-packed picnic hampers that take the hassle out of preparing for your outdoor feast. Our luxury picnic hampers are filled with an exquisite selection of artisan food and drink, all carefully chosen to complement each other perfectly. Our Badminton Picnic Hamper comes with smoked salmon, crostini and a variety of cheeses, dips and fresh fruits to satisfy all, as well as a bottle of Paul Langier Champagne to keep the conversation flowing.

In addition to our pre-packed hampers, we also offer a bespoke service that allows you to create your own hamper, tailored to your exact preferences. Simply choose from our extensive range of gourmet food and drink items, and our expert team will carefully pack your hamper, ensuring that every item is perfectly presented and ready to be enjoyed.

Packing a picnic basket may seem like a simple task, but it does require pre-planning and consideration to ensure your alfresco affair goes off without a hitch. Whether you opt for a pre-packed hamper or choose to create your own, we're confident that your outdoor dining experience will be one to remember. So, grab your blanket, find a scenic spot, and enjoy the great British picnic in style with Regency Hampers.