The the picnic basket  is a dependable way to transport food and drinks for a day out in the great outdoors. But a well-packed picnic doesn’t just need the right food and beverages: It also needs a sturdy, sturdily constructed basket that holds all of the utensils and accessories that you’ll need to prepare your meal.

Picnic baskets are typically made of wicker, canvas, or wood and feature a handle for easy carrying. They may have a lid or a decorative lining, too.

When shopping for a picnic basket, consider your lifestyle and how often you will be using it. If you’ll be a regular picnicker, it’s a good idea to look for a more robust, insulated option that can keep cheeses and delicate fruit cool.

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What’s more, you should choose a basket that’s crafted from a durable material that won’t be a hassle to clean. You’ll find a range of options from woven and padded wicker to waterproofed canvas and cloth.

If you plan to pack a lot of food or drink, consider picking a picnic basket with multiple compartments and storage for dishes, glasses, and linens. These baskets can be more expensive, but they’ll save you the hassle of packing and repacking your accessories every time you leave the house.

It’s also worth noting that many wicker picnic baskets require more care than their insulated cooler-like counterparts, as the delicate fiber can break down if it gets too wet. To keep your wicker picnic basket looking like new, wipe it down with a dry microfiber cloth after each use.