Illustration: Aoibhin Pearce Glynn / Strathclyde Telegraph

Even in summer, the Scottish weather is known to change at the drop of a hat; it is imperative that any hot weather is taken advantage of. One of my favourite ways to do so is with a picnic; lying out on the grass, under the sun, smelling of sun cream, eating delicious snacks, I can’t think of a better way to spend a summer’s day. But for it to be a truly great picnic, one must be prepared. So let this article serve as your prep list for the perfect picnic.

Location

First and foremost, to consider when planning a picnic is of course the weather, but once a sunny day has been found, then it is the location. Though some may like the beach for a picnic, I find that the risk of sandy food is not one that I want to run. Instead, I much prefer green parks with plenty of trees; Glasgow Green is a convenient one for me. But there are other spots such as Kelvingrove Park, the Botanic Gardens and Alexandra Park.

Equipment

Of course, if you are having a spontaneous picnic, then maybe you won’t worry about this as much. I am not planning for spontaneity. Key is the picnic blanket, somewhere to lie without worry, and it marks off your little area of the park. Then paper plates, so that you can horde those mini sausage rolls. Reusable cups, because we do care about the environment, and it means that no one else can accidentally use yours. And maybe a few spoons, for the dips. Lest we forget sun cream and sunhats, a picnic is nice, but it is made better when the risk of sunburn is lessened.

Drinks

On a hot summer’s day, it is important to stay hydrated, and what better way to stay hydrated than with a drink you like? Everyone’s preferred drinks do vary, so depending on the number of picnickers, you may have to bring multiple. Or make everyone bring their own. A safe bet is always lemonade, though warm lemonade is not great. You might have to get creative with keeping drinks cool, maybe you are bougie and have a cooler. Or just keep everything in the fridge before the picnic and pray that it stays cold. A nice smoothie is always a good option, especially if using veg or fruit that feels very summery. Just remember that you do have to lug this liquid to the picnic spot, so maybe get some friends to help carry it if you are getting big bottles.

Food

I am of the opinion that everything in a picnic should be mini: mini sausages, mini sausage rolls, mini sandwiches. Mini food just makes for a better experience; you can sample more food in smaller quantities, and you don’t have to worry about crumbs everywhere when the bites are so small. I would definitely recommend packs of mini picnic foods from the shops. To make yourself feel healthier, and because they are nice on a hot day, I feel like cucumber and carrot sticks with dips are a necessity. But you can’t forget the many crisps or breadsticks that are needed to get the leftover dip. Though if you aren’t a fan of cucumber/carrot sticks, it’s always an option to hide vegetables in mini sandwiches. The food doesn’t have to be an aesthetically pleasing charcutterie, if you pack what you like, then you will enjoy it more – even if it is all one colour.

Most of the food so far has been savoury, but you cannot forget dessert. Strawberries. Maybe some other fruit if you must, but strawberries. Possibly with a little brownie or shortbread, but strawberries are the best picnic dessert.

Wishing you a lovely summer and a wonderful picnic.