This Labor Day weekend, leave the kitchen table behind and head outdoors! Nothing’s better than a scenic view and a family meal everyone can enjoy. Whether you need tips about prepping or packing, this guide will help you when it comes to planning a family picnic to celebrate the end of summer and to welcome fall.

 

Food

 

When prepping your menu, consider dishes that travel well. Also, less is definitely more when it comes to packing picnic baskets. The best picnic dishes require little to no silverware. It’s also best to stick with food that can be served at room temperature or can be kept cool with ice packs. Nothing is worse than having food that spoils quickly from the heat.

 

 

Basket and Blanket

Besides the food, a picnic basket and blanket are must-bring essentials. Although it’s a classic, you don’t need an old-fashioned wicker picnic basket. Instead, think about using a cooler to keep those perfect picnic dishes at the perfect temperature. For the full picnic effect, invest in a waterproof blanket so you can sit on the ground.

Location and Time

Planning the location and time of your picnic is just as important as planning the menu. Find a park with a play area for the kids and, most importantly, a bathroom for everyone. If you plan on picnicking at a popular park, make sure to arrive a little earlier than expected to claim that special spot for your family.

 

 

Toys and Games

If the park you choose doesn’t have a playground or splash pad, it’s important to bring your own entertainment. Bring balls, a pack of cards, or even some bubbles to keep your family entertained. Try getting even more creative by planning an outdoor scavenger hunt at the park.

Clean Up

 

 

You probably chose your outdoor picnic location because of its scenic view. However, if you don’t clean up your trash, it won’t be beautiful for very long. Make sure to throw away and pick up any food or belongings you’ve brought. It’s important to leave our green spaces better than when we arrived.

If you follow these planning tips for your outdoor family picnic, you’ll be able to make a simple picnic successful. And don’t forget that final, essential ingredient: an action-ready outdoor camera to capture the best (and most hilarious!) moments. This Labor Day weekend, get outdoors and get ready to make lasting family memories!

 

Text by Kendal Harris

 

Are you still struggling to find that perfect gift for the world’s best dad? Here are some items that every dad is sure to love for this upcoming Father’s Day.

 

 

1. Southern Marsh Men’s Hawthorne Bermuda Performance Polo

 

This shirt is a must-have for all dads. Its moisture-wicking fabric provides perfect comfort. Plus, this polo is versatile enough for a family cookout or for that family trip to Mt. Cheaha.

 

2. Patagonia Men’s Back Step Shirt

 

Who said dad fashion is always bad fashion? With this breathable short-sleeve button up, dad will ready to take on warm-weather adventures in style.

 

3. Yeti LoadOut 5 Gallon Bucket

 

Remember that big plastic bucket that held all of dad’s tools and supplies when he did yard work? While it may have been big, it was never durable — but dad will have no worries with this bucket. Its hefty handle and high-density polyethylene material guarantee this bucket will last for generations to come.

 

4. Yeti Hopper Back Flip 24 Backpack Cooler

 

Before heading out on that hiking trip, you want to make sure that dad has this backpack cooler. Made with waterproof fabric, its closed-cell foam insulation makes storing cold drinks or packing lunch a cool breeze. Plus, a cooler you can wear on your back leaves your hands free for hiking and rowing.

 

5. Qalo Men’s Outdoors Silicone Wedding Band

 

Does your father complain that his wedding band sometimes gets in the way during a work-out or outdoors activities? Made of medical-grade silicone, this wedding band is the perfect way for your dad to celebrate his commitment while remaining committed to the outdoors.

 

6. Helinox Chair One

 

This portable chair is perfect for every outdoor or indoor occasion. With its lightweight, durable and compact features, dad can relax his back on the next weekend camping trip. This chair is great for that extra seat on the back porch or in the living room for family occasions, so it’s kind of a gift for mom, too.

 

7. Osprey Manta AG 28 Daypack

 

This backpack is just what dad needs to store any gear for that day trip to Oak Mountain. Backpacks can cause discomfort, but the comfy shoulder harness and weight-distributing hipbelt will keep dad moving right along. The large zipper and panel pockets allows for quick and easy access to gear while staying organized.

 

8. Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack – 20L

 

Whether it be a day trip in the woods or a long climb up in the mountains, this daypack has endless uses. It can also attach to other Osprey packs for longer trips or fly solo for day trips. No matter its use, this pack’s mesh pockets and front zippered pockets provide the perfect amount of storage.

 

9. Yeti Rambler Mug – 14oz

 

Is dad tired of his coffee not staying hot enough? Or of his ice melting the second he steps out on a hot summer day? This mug is the perfect solution. Its vacuum insulation and stainless steel design keeps cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot.

 

10. Free Fly Men’s Breeze Shorts 

 

These moisture-wicking, lightweight shorts are perfect for whatever adventures summer has in store. Whether it’s a hike in the woods or just a jog through the neighborhood, dad is going to be on-the-go in style.

 

11. Free Fly Men’s Lightweight Bamboo Long-Sleeve Shirt

 

This stylish and comfy shirt works for a fishing trip or just going to dinner with the family. With its UPF 15+ sun protection and moisture-wicking material, dad is sure to feel as cool and smooth as his shirt.

 

 

12. On-Running Men’s Cloud 2.0 Shoes

 

With their CloudTec sole and great step-in feel, these shoes are the perfect fit. Their grip pads and central channel design make for a smooth walk (or run) on any terrain.

 

13. Mountain Khakis Men’s Poplin Shorts

 

Tired of dad wearing the same pair of cargo shorts for every occasion? He’ll be sure to set the next fashion trend when he shows up to the family cookout wearing these shorts. An added bonus: there’s no need to worry about wrinkles because of their cotton/poly blend.

 

14. KÜHL Men’s Rydr Pants 

 

Dad will be thanking you for these long-lasting and comfortable pants for years. With a some stretch for freedom of movement and their reinforced pockets, these pants are sure to be dad’s favorite pair of pants for quite some time.

15. Your Time

Remember, there is one gift your dad will want more than any other: spending time with you. It’s guaranteed to be his very favorite gift.

 

Text by Jonathan Mendoza