A beginner’s guide to picnic etiquette provides tips on how to have an enjoyable outdoor dining experience. For dos, it is important to choose the right location, bring a picnic blanket, plenty of food and drinks, utensils, plates, and glasses, and clean up after yourself. For don’ts, avoid feeding the wildlife, leave no trash behind, play music at a comfortable volume, avoid bringing glass containers, and respect nature. In case of bad weather, have a backup plan, and check the rules for alcohol and pet allowances. Improvise if you forget something, or ask fellow picnickers for help.
A Beginner’s Guide to Picnic Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts for Outdoor Dining
Introduction
Picnics are a fun way to spend time outdoors with family and friends. However, there are some unwritten rules of etiquette to follow to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable experience. Whether you are planning a romantic picnic date or a family outing, this beginner’s guide to picnic etiquette will help you navigate through the dos and don’ts of outdoor dining.
Dos
- Choose the right location: A good picnic spot should have plenty of shade, a flat surface, and a scenic view. Look for a spot that is away from busy roads, bathrooms, and trash cans.
- Bring a picnic blanket: A comfortable and clean surface to sit on is essential for a good picnic. Make sure to bring a blanket that is big enough to accommodate everyone.
- Bring plenty of food and drinks: A successful picnic requires an abundance of food and drinks. Pack enough to feed everyone, plus a little extra.
- Bring utensils, plates, and glasses: To avoid using disposable utensils and plates, bring reusable ones along with you. Don’t forget to bring glasses or reusable water bottles as well.
- Clean up after yourself: Leave the picnic spot cleaner than you found it. Bring a garbage bag with you and dispose of all your trash properly.
Don’ts
- Don’t feed the wildlife: Avoid feeding the wildlife in the area as it can cause harm to the animals and can attract them closer to your picnic area.
- Don’t leave your trash behind: Leaving your trash behind can harm the environment and ruin the experience for others who may use the area later.
- Don’t play loud music: Loud music can be disruptive to other picnic goers in the area. Keep the volume at a level that is comfortable for everyone.
- Don’t bring glass containers: Glass can break easily and pose a safety hazard. Opt for plastic or metal containers instead.
- Don’t pick flowers or disturb nature: Respect nature and leave it as you found it. Don’t pick flowers or disturb the wildlife in the area.
FAQs
Q: Can I have alcohol at a picnic?
A: It depends on the location. Some parks or public spaces don’t allow alcohol, while others may have specific rules. Make sure to check before you bring any alcoholic beverages.
Q: What should I do if it starts to rain?
A: Have a backup plan in case of bad weather. Bring a raincoat, umbrella, or choose an indoor picnic location.
Q: Can I bring my dog to a picnic?
A: It depends on the location and the rules. Some parks or public spaces allow dogs, while others don’t. Make sure to check before you bring your pet.
Q: What should I do if I forget something?
A: Don’t panic! You can always improvise. For example, you can use a napkin as a makeshift plate or a rock as a bottle opener. You may also ask fellow picnic goers if they have any extra supplies.
