Essential Picnic Checklist
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For Toting and Seating:
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Picnic basket or canvas bag
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Cooler
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Picnic blanket (preferably waterproof on the bottom)
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Picnic chairs (if anyone in your group is not happy on the ground)
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Portable picnic table (if that\'s the kind of picnic you\'re having!)
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For Serving:
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Plates
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Utensils (including serving utensils)
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Napkins
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Cups
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Drinks (including lots of water)
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Bottle opener
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Cutting board (also useful as a level serving surface, perfect for drinks)
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Sharp knife (even if you don\'t plan to cut things, it\'s still a good idea)
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Salt and pepper
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Mustard, mayo, ketchup, etc., if needed (a great way to make use of extra packets from a takeout place)
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For Cleanup:
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Paper towels (and maybe wet wipes)
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A couple of dishtowels (always handy, and useful to buffer and support dishes in transport)
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Extra plastic containers or sturdy zipper-top bags for packing up dirty utensils, leftovers, etc.
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Trash bags
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Other Essentials:
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Sunscreen
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Hats
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Insect repellent
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Flashlight (if you plan to be out into the evening hours)
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Sport or activity equipment (Frisbees, balls, bubbles, water guns ... whatever the crowd likes)