Not convinced by fresh air and food alone?

These 16 reasons we love picnics will have you planning your next outing, stat.

Toss a few throw blankets in your basket just in case the weather gets chilly.

Ethnic family picnicking on a blanket in the grass

Credit: C. Devan/Getty Images

The Perfect Picnic Food

Some foods are just made for summer picnicslike a delicious sandwich.

This spicy hero is filled with sliced meat, cheese, and pepperoncini.

Don’t forget the potato chips and sparkling water so picnic-goers can dig into a full lunch!

picnic side view

Credit: Carson Downing

Transform a plain wicker basket with handles into the perfect picnic accessory.

All you need is a quick coat of white spray paint.

Fill the basket with everything you need for the ultimate outing.

Spicy Three-Meat Picnic Hero

Credit: Andy Lyons

The Cheese Boards

The coolest thing since sliced bread?

A selection of cheeses for topping it, of course!

Fill up on favorites like Brie, cheddar, and Gruyere.

Basket filled with picnic supplies

Credit: Andy Lyons

If you really want to get jazzy, add some meat and fruit to your tray.

No-mess finger foods like bread, cheese and fruit are perfect for picnics.

When you arrive at your picnic location, all you have to do is unpack!

picnic with sandwiches, charcuterie, and pink plates

Credit: Carson Downing

Premade sandwiches are a great optionand they don’t have to be boring!

Ditch the plain old peanut butter and jelly and go for a delicious veggie sandwich.

The Foods-in-a-Cup

Because we can’t bring our china everywhere.

Asparagus-Egg Breakfast Sandwich

Credit: Andy Lyons

Get extra creative by filling plastic to-go cups with salads, snacks, and more.

Invite family and friends to a backyard picnic adorned with balloons, streamers, and themed food.

We love the idea of this adorable mini pie, which is baked right inside a small jar!

Veggie and Dip Cups

Credit: Andy Lyons

Bonus points if you include a jar of whipped cream to share!

The Plaid

It’s no secret we love plaid.

It’s classic, inviting, and screams summer spread.

Cherry-Crumble Pie Bars

Credit: Scott Little

A picnic without it would just be wrong.

Not to mention picnics are a breath of fresh air from your normal routineliterally.

For the most relaxing picnic, choose a pretty spot on a warm day.

man child July party

Credit: Sabrina Helas

The Cake

This viral trend is fun addition to any picnic.

Grab your pals, a cake, and a few wine glasses to have a mess free dessert.

Each person uses their wine glass to cut and scoop up part of the cake.

Apple-Berry Pie in a Jar

Credit: Karla Conrad

The Drinks

Relaxing in sun with your favorite people is the perfect day.

ensure to bring pitcher of arefreshing cocktail(or mocktail!)

to beat any thirst from the heat.

bandanas in bamboo trays

Credit: David Tsay

This basil lemon drop drink is a boozy twist on homemade lemonade.

person on bench with picnic basket

Credit: Rebekah Molloy

picnic basket with pink cake

Credit: Karla Conrad

Mother and daughter picnicking in a field

Credit: harpazo_hope/Getty Images

Six Layer Strawberry Cake

Credit: Kritsada Panichgul

Basil Lemon Drop

Credit: Andy Lyons