Don’t let rain or snow keep you from enjoying the sunset or your favorite view. A car picnic lets you enjoy tasty food and great company while staying warm and dry. 

A car picnic is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a mini picnic inside your car. It’s cozy, fun, and probably more comfortable than sitting on the ground. Plus, no ants. You won’t have as much space, so the focus is on the view, your friends, and food. 

To keep things simple, use bento boxes or divided dinner plates if you want to serve a few options. Disposable containers are convenient, but reusable ones are better for the environment and your budget. 

When planning your menu, think about foods that are easy to eat with one hand, like: 

  • Soup in a mug
  • Sandwiches, gyros, tacos, and burritos
  • Jar salads
  • Antipasti items like olives, cheese cubes, and cured meats
  • Bread and butter or cheese
  • Cupcakes, brownies, and cookies
  • Fruit salad and whole berries or grapes 

Keep food safety in mind. Use insulated containers for hot dishes and coolers for cold ones. If your car has a refrigerator, this is the perfect occasion to use it. Make the most of the center console, cup holders, door pockets, and other amenities to keep everything organized. 

Like any picnic, setup and cleanup matter. Be sure to bring: 

  • Bags for waste
  • Containers or bags for dirty dishes and utensils
  • Dry and wet napkins
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Cleaning wipes 

You might not want to keep the car heater running the heat for the entire car picnic, so pack a few light blankets to stay cozy. 

Don’t let the weather stop your plans.  Grab your favorite snacks, put on a playlist, and enjoy a car picnic that feels warm, relaxed, and fun. 

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