The Ultimate Romantic Picnic: What You Need for One

Who said a cheap date can’t also be a really romantic one? Just because you may not have a ton of money in your bank account right now, that doesn’t mean you and yours have to forego the fun, passion and even flirting that comes with dating one another. You just need to be creative.

Technically, going on a picnic is not the most original date idea on the planet. But it is a classic one that never gets old. If you do it right---and by that, we mean being as traditional as possible---it can be something that you and your spouse will love so much that you’ll want to make it a regular occurrence. No matter how much money you do or don’t have.

1. A wicker basket

Only those who are truly serious about picnicking are going to have a wicker basket. It’s the signature staple for going on one! Aside from how cute and elegant (yes, at the same time) wicker baskets are, there’s a practicality to them too. Wicker is lightweight and extremely durable. It can also handle just about any weather that comes your way in case you get caught in a storm. Some home supply stores may carry wicker picnic baskets. But you might find just the one you’re looking for on websites like Etsy. Go to the site and put “wicker picnic basket” in the search field.

2. A blanket

Why sit on the dirt if you don’t have to? It’s always smart to bring a blanket along; one that’s big enough for you and yours to stretch out on. You might think that any blanket will do, but you need one that isn’t too thick (comforters? No) or too thin (like the throw on your couch). You also don’t want to sit on it and immediately feel the small stones underneath. No need to spend a lot here. Try a cost-effective store, like Wal-Mar or Target, who are bound to have a selection of blankets perfect for picnics. 

3. A homemade meal 

The awesome thing about picnics is they tend to be healthier than going to a restaurant. That’s because you are able to prepare the food yourself (which means you know exactly what’s going into it). Sandwiches are a traditional picnic food, but don’t limit yourself to those. Salads, salmon, baked chicken, fruit kebabs, grilled vegetable skewers, fig crostata---the sky really is the limit! Get some great homemade picnic food recipes here.

4. A bottle of wine (or sparkling cider)

Here’s where the romance starts to come in. Picnics are made for spending quality time reflecting on the love you share. Use those feelings and memories as an opportunity to toast one another with a bottle of wine or sparkling cider. A lot of wicker baskets come with holders for flutes. Our suggestion is to look for one of those.

5. Chocolate-covered strawberries

Chocolate-covered strawberries are a sexy and nutritious dessert. Dark chocolate contains antioxidants to keep your immune system healthy, it increases blood circulation and lowers your blood pressure. Dark chocolate is also on the list of aphrodisiac foods (always good to know). Strawberries contain a high amount of Vitamin C, ellagic acid that helps to fight cancer and bad cholesterol, and phytochemicals that decreases joint inflammation. The combo of the chocolate and strawberries makes it one of the best ways to show your love for one another’s health. You can make your own. Click here for an easy recipe.

6. A sunrise or sunset

You need one more thing to set the tone. The right atmosphere. A perfect romantic picnic is all about the details, so try and avoid going at noon when all of the kids and pets are in the park. Go instead very early in the morning before work or after work while everyone else is sitting in rush hour traffic. Sunrises and sunsets are beautiful landscapes for picnics. Don’t limit them to warm weather either. Bundling up with soup and hot cocoa in the dead of winter can be just as sweet and memorable for you both.