The ritual of a picnic starts with a picnic basket filled with surprises: a complete guide to choosing, storing, and matching

Choosing the perfect picnic basket is the first step, and it's crucial to carefully select it based on the occasion and your needs. For a vintage, artistic look, a wicker picnic basket is the top choice. The natural rattan material has a timeless feel, and with leather handles and metal buckles, it creates a retro-inspired photoshoot. Families with children are more suited to canvas picnic baskets, which are durable and foldable. The waterproof coating on the bottom keeps moisture out of the grass, ensuring no matter how many snacks or toys you pack, they won't leak. For practicality, an Instagram-style handheld basket with a tiered design is worth considering. The top layer holds cutlery, the bottom layer holds food, and the side can even hold a thermos. It's lightweight and versatile, making it a great value for under a hundred yuan.

The secret to both storage and aesthetics lies in storage. First, lay a plaid tablecloth or floral cotton and linen towel on the bottom of the basket to protect your food and serve as a photo backdrop. Use airtight glass jars or silicone containers to separate fruit and sandwiches to prevent food from transferring flavors. Crispy snacks like fried chicken and French fries can be placed in a brown paper bag and lined with oil-absorbing paper to preserve their texture. Don't forget to tuck a folded placemat and a few packs of wet wipes into the corners of the basket for easy access.

Details can add personality to a picnic basket. For a fresh look, place a few chamomile or daisies around the edge. For a vintage vibe, add an old book or a small brass lamp. If you're planning on having wine on your picnic, choose a picnic basket with compartments for bottles and stemware to prevent them from tipping over. Finally, a vintage camera or woven straw hat is practical and adds dimension to your picnic photos.

A well-prepared picnic basket holds more than just food; it also holds a passion for life. Follow this guide to choosing, organizing, and arranging your items, and you'll create unforgettable memories.