Summer and picnics go together like hot dogs and mustard, but planning a successful picnic is harder than it looks.  You’ll need food that everyone likes, drinks, something to sit on, and some kind of entertainment (besides, you know, eating).

Before you throw the entire contents of your house into your car, slow down and make a quick plan.  Here are some things that will maximize your picnic fun and minimize hassle.

Go with a group

If you’re into potlucks, you can divide the work by teaming up with another family or two.  Choose a shady and mutually convenient spot and divide up the food list.  An added benefit is that if your kids are getting sick of each other (and what siblings aren’t after a few weeks of summer vacation), they’ll be very happy to see some fresh faces.  You probably will too.

Be realistic about food

This sounds obvious, I know, but bear with me: only bring food your family will eat.   Will your children eat carrots when potato chips are available?  If not, just leave the carrots at home (along with the sugar snap peas, cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumber).  If in doubt about what to put in and leave out of the picnic basket, just stick to finger foods and keep them simple.

Don’t skimp on cold drinks

A cooler full of ice and a selection of drinks is heavy and bulky, but don’t be tempted to skimp on this picnic essential.  As with food, be realistic about what your family will want to drink.

Ditto seating

Some people don’t mind sitting on a picnic blanket for hours on end, but I am not those people.   Give me a nice folding chair with plenty of back support any day.  Kids seldom seem to sit still for long at picnics, but if you have room in the car, pack a chair for each adult.

Boost the fun factor with games

Once the kids are done eating (see also: two minutes after you’ve laid out the spread), they’ll be ready for some fun lawn games.  We always bring a wiffle bat and a few wiffle balls.  Kick the can is fun for groups too if your picnic spot offers plenty of good hiding places.  If you don’t feel like organizing something quite that ambitious, just grab a red playground ball and teach your kids how to play Spud.  Have fun and bon appétit!