Plastic Free July: 5 steps to a fun and frugal picnic

In a season where outings can quickly become expensive, a picnic offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy summer without compromising on fun! Instead of feeling like going out means spending on cafés, takeout, or entry fees, it’s simple to create memorable moments at a park, a beach, or even in your backyard. And with a little planning, it’s easy to make your picnic not only economical but also plastic-free!

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Pack with reusables

The easiest way embrace zero waste at a picnic is to opt for reusable alternatives like stainless steel or bamboo cutlery, durable cups, and enamel or bamboo plates. Cloth napkins are washable and reusable too. Food can be packed in glass jars, beeswax wraps, or stainless steel containers, eliminating the need for plastic bags or wrap. Don’t feel the need to purchase new items – some of my favourite camping kitchen pieces came from the thrift store!

I generally mix reusables with compostable items and I even have a few plastic items, but ones that will last for a long time. For example, my picnic blanket is foldable and easily carried, waterproof, and made of plastic woven material, but I’ve used it many times over the almost 20 years I’ve had it!

Choose plastic-free food

When planning your picnic menu, consider including some locally sourced items that don’t come wrapped in plastic packaging. For example, I’ve signed up for a CSA box box again this year, so much of the vegetable content in my picnics will be locally sourced. Another great way to avoid packaging is to shop a local bulk food store and purchase items for your menu in reusable containers. I can’t promise, though, that any picnic of mine won’t have a bag of chips or two!

I’ve found that the best way to bring a picnic in on budget and minimize waste is to make at least some of the items myself – here are some great ideas for easily prepared items. Alison has previously shared her favourite vegan snacks, which are also great picnic food options!

Skip the single-use drinkware

Plastic cups, bottles, and straws are some of the most common littered items. Instead, bring your beverages in glass bottles, stainless steel flasks, or refillable jugs. Mason jars make cute and eco-friendly serving glasses, and can be paired with silicone or metal straws.

Skip juice boxes, soda cans, and bottled water altogether. A large jug of fruit-infused water or herbal iced tea is just as refreshing and maybe even tastier! Drinks like lemonade or iced tea can be made at home and poured into reusable bottles or jugs.

Leave no trace

The most important part of any sustainable picnic is making sure you leave the site as you found it—or better. Before packing up, do a quick sweep for any stray crumbs, wrappers, or trash—even if it’s not yours. Bring a dedicated container for compostables and another for recycling or trash.

Enjoy the moment

A plastic-free picnic isn’t just about avoiding waste—it’s about being intentional. When you choose reusables and prepare thoughtfully, you create a meaningful and mindful experience.

The next time the sun is shining and the outdoors are calling, grab your eco-friendly essentials, prepare some delicious food, and enjoy a picnic that’s as good for the planet as it is for the soul!

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