As the weather gets cooler, don’t be tempted to stay indoors. Autumn is a great time to plan a picnic! Enjoy the colorful scenery and gentle breezes while snacking on fresh apples, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and sippin’ on a chai latte.
But don’t head into the park without a plan. Picnicking in the fall can be a little trickier than in the summer. Follow these easy steps to plan the perfect picnic.
Leave no trace
The Girl Scouts said it best: Always leave an area cleaner than you found it. One easy way to do this is to pack your food in reusable Tupperware and bring reusable plates, cups, and silverware. Plastic and glass containers aren’t only better for the environment, but aren’t going to blow away in the wind. Plus, metal silverware isn’t going to snap when you’re cutting through a crisp apple.
Bring layers
One of the positives of fall picnics is the cooler temperatures. You won’t be so desperate to find shade or feel sticky with sweat, but you also might get a little cold if you stay out for too long. Bring an extra sweatshirt, and if it’s especially chilly out, pack one or two extra blankets to wrap around yourself. Bonus points if they’re plaid!
Get moving
One easy way to stay warm is to be active. Toss around a football, kick a soccer ball, or just play catch—anything to keep your fingers and toes moving. Sports and games can be great for family bonding and keeping up with exercise even in the colder months. You could even start the day with a hike, and picnic at the top of a hill. Since the temperature is cool, your food isn’t likely to spoil if you eat it later.
Make it Paleo
Time outdoors can be rejuvenating. Make it even more beneficial by packing healthy Paleo foods! Apples aren’t the only seasonal produce this time of year—grapes, sliced bell peppers, celery, and carrots are fresh and easy picnic foods too.
Don’t feel limited to these simple finger-foods, though. Here are some of our favorite autumn-inspired Paleo recipes to prep ahead of time.
