Article & Photos by Renata Haidle

There is something irresistibly charming about a picnic. Maybe it is the way fresh air stimulates the appetite, or how a humble sandwich tastes much better when eaten under an open sky in the company of people we love. Whatever the magic is, a well-packed picnic basket can turn any ordinary afternoon into something memorable.

But not all picnic baskets are created equal. The best ones balance simplicity and style, thoughtful preparation and a spirit of ease. Whether you’re heading to Riverfront Park, hiking the Rims, or sprawling on a blanket at Pioneer Park with friends, here’s how to assemble the ultimate picnic basket, with an eye on sustainability, deliciousness, and local flair.

START WITH THE BASKET (OR SOMETHING BETTER)

The classic woven basket is charming, but we have plenty of other options nowadays. An insulated tote, a backpack, or a wooden crate can work just as well. Check out Base Camp’s supply of fashionable yet practical coolers for something that blends utility with good looks. They have a good selection of durable outdoor gear, including soft coolers and insulated totes that double as weekend adventure bags.

If possible, try to avoid single-use plastic bags, dinnerware, and containers. Instead, opt for beeswax wraps, stainless steel bento boxes and plates, or reusable silicone pouches (Frae Everyday Goods has a good selection). Not only are they eco-friendly, but they also look better and keep your picnic essentials fresher.

FOCUS ON FOODS THAT TRAVEL WELL

Picnics are no place for fussy food. Think low- maintenance yet high-flavor. For a no-cook lineup that delivers, consider the following:

• Sandwiches or wraps. Pre-slice the bread or make sandwiches in advance and wrap them individually. Opt for hearty breads that won’t go soggy, like a multigrain country loaf with seeds from Town & Country Foods. A bit more elegant, a baguette with brie and fig jam is always a hit.
• Cheese and charcuterie. Choose two cheeses (one creamy, one firm) and a couple of cured meats. Town and Country Foods has plenty of options to choose from. Add olives, dried fruits, a handful of nuts, and some local honey from Yellowstone Valley Food Hub.
• Fresh produce. Grape tomatoes, snap peas, strawberries, and cherries are easy to eat by hand - no peeling or cutting needed. Town & Country Foods offers a good selection of fresh produce to pack along.
• Salad in a jar. Think grain salads with farro, roasted veggies, and a zesty vinaigrette. Avoid mayo-based anything.
• Sweet bites. Stop by Flours Bakery and pick up their yummy cookies, scones, or muffins, for a lovely finish to your meal.
• Drinks. Sparkling flavored water, kombucha, or a canned wine (yes, it’s a thing, and surprisingly good). Don’t forget water. Always bring more than you think you'll need, especially on warm days or longer outings.

BRING THE RIGHT TOOLS (AND SKIP THE WASTE) 

A few thoughtfully chosen tools will make your picnic feel organized rather than chaotic:

• A sharp pocket knife
• A lightweight cutting board
• Cloth napkins (pretty and reusable)
• Real cutlery wrapped in a tea towel - not much added weight and more elegant than plastic utensils
• Enamel, stainless steel, or bamboo plates
• A corkscrew or bottle opener
• A small trash bag
• Mosquito repellent
• A cozy, washable blanket (ideally one with a waterproof underside if you're picnicking on dewy grass or riverbank rocks)

KEEP IT COOL AND CLEAN

Billings’ summers can get toasty, so temperature control is key. Freeze a couple of water bottles the night before and tuck them in with your perishables. Once melted, they will keep everything cold and then double as refreshing drinks. Use stackable, leak-proof containers to prevent spills, and pack your basket or tote in layers, placing heavier items on the bottom and delicate fruits and pastries on top.

Pack a few damp cloths in a sealed pouch for quick clean-ups. You’ll feel much more civilized when wiping berry juice off your fingers with something more effective than a crumpled paper napkin.

SHOP LOCAL, PICNIC BETTER

One of the joys of building a picnic basket is gathering the goods, and in Billings, that means visiting shops where quality and community matter. Here are a few local favorites:

• Base Camp
• Town & Country Foods
• Yellowstone Valley Food Hub
• Flours Bakery
• Frae Everyday Goods

GO LIGHT ON EFFORT, BIG ON ATMOSPHERE

A picnic shouldn’t feel like hosting a dinner party at a park bench. Keep the food simple, the company good, and the expectations low. A Bluetooth speaker, a deck of cards, or a book of poems can elevate the experience without overcomplicating things. If you're feeling extra fancy (or if it's a romantic outing), add a small mason jar filled with wildflowers from your backyard or a garden bouquet from Roots - it will make the communion with nature even more meaningful.

A successful, sustainable picnic isn’t just about what you pack, but how you enjoy it. Leave no trace, share leftovers, and support the small businesses that help make your picnic possible.

A FINAL WORD

At its core, a picnic is an act of joy: a loaf of bread, a bit of cheese, and a patch of grass beneath the big Montana sky. Whether you like simple things or are a maximalist, remember that perfection is not in the details but in the spirit. Assemble your basket with care, but don’t forget to slow down, sip something bubbly, and savor the moment.

Picnic season is calling. All you need: a cozy blanket, brie and berries, chilled rosé, and a basket packed with love.

Originally printed in the June 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

Check this article out in the digital issue of Simply Local here!

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