Shop for a large soft-sided cooler with a hard plastic liner and lots of zippered and open pockets. The more pockets and compartments, the better.
Step 2
Go to the kitchen accessories department and find a thin rectangular cutting board that fits over the top of the cooler liner.
Step 3
Equip the cooler with a good knife, like a rounded steak knife for spreading and cutting sandwiches, and a good opener with a corkscrew. Add plastic utensils, paper plates and napkins to the various pockets.
Step 4
Pack drinks in cans or small bottles at the bottom of the cooler, add a layer of ice to cover drinks, then pack sandwich and snack items in plastic containers. Pack a small jar of mayonnaise, bottle of mustard, bagged lettuce or other condiments and add another layer of ice.
Step 5
Place the cutting board over the top of the plastic liner and zip up all the compartments. Now you are totally prepared for the ultimate picnic basket.