When picking out the perfect spot for a picnic, make sure to pick an area that’s open and grassy. If other people are also picnicking in the area, be sure to set your blanket down far away from others; it is important to find a balance between the desolate and the overcrowded. Although people-watching can be a fun pastime, too many people nearby can make your picnic unenjoyable.

Make sure to keep weather in mind when planning your picnic. It doesn’t have to be sunny out, but make sure to check the forecast for rain. While clouds are OK — they even help to block out too much sun — a rainy picnic is not fun for any parties involved.

Having the right food and drinks can make or break your picnic. Foods that require cutlery are a no-go — you don’t want your picnic to get too crowded with unnecessary utensils. So, make sure to pack lots of small finger foods to complete your meal.

Fruits, like strawberries and watermelon, provide a nice refreshing taste and also help you to feel healthy. Sandwiches are a classic picnic food for a good reason; they’re easy to eat and require little to no clean-up. Chips are also a nice side item. For a twist, try layering plain-flavored chips into a savory sandwich to add a satisfactory crunch.

Good drinks could include lemonade or water. Or, if those aren’t for you, try sparking grape juice to give your picnic a sophisticated flare. To enhance the romantic feel of the picnic, bring champagne flutes for your non-alcoholic drink of choice.

For food or drinks that require refrigeration, make sure to bring a cooler. There’s nothing worse than accidentally making your lemonade warm or your ice cream melt. Be sure to pack all the necessary supplies to enjoy your picnic meal.

For an ideal picnic, the perfect supplies are vital. Because you’re probably going to be out in grass, make sure to pack a blanket that’s large and comfortable to sit on. A quilt typically works best for this — that way, you avoid the uncomfortable heat of a fuzzy blanket but can also sit on something that’s cushioned.

To pass the time when you’re not eating, bring along a frisbee, a good book or art supplies. Or, just pack something that you like to do. Bringing inside activities to the outdoors can be a fun change, and the fresh air helps to make the experiences even better.

Lastly, make sure to bring friends to share your picnic with — good company, after all, is one of the most important aspects of a good picnic. Talking and laughing with friends in such a friendly atmosphere is extremely beneficial, and helps to make a picnic truly perfect.