(BPT) – When the sun’s out and the weather is warm, there’s nothing better than enjoying a meal al fresco! Skipping a fancy restaurant patio for a relaxing outdoor picnic is not only fun, but much more affordable! It doesn’t have to be overly planned — just fill a basket with your favorite foods and head outside!

Whether you’re packing for the park or enjoying a backyard hangout, these five smart tips make it easy to put together a delicious spread with minimal effort, no mess and all the flavor.

1. Skip the Prep with Ready-Made Sides

A winning picnic doesn’t have to mean making everything from scratch. Combining a few homemade favorites with high-quality, prepared dishes allows you to ditch the prep and kitchen mess. Reser’s delicious deli salads — like their Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad, Cole Slaw and Rotisserie Chicken Salad — taste just like homemade and are ideal for sharing. Add a few fresh fruits, sliced meats and crackers to round out the spread. The deli section of your local grocer can be your best friend.

2. Pack Smart Essentials

Cut down on overpacking by choosing items that do double duty. Use frozen water bottles instead of ice packs to keep your cooler cold and serve as drinks later. A large scarf or lightweight blanket can double as a picnic cloth. Compostable or recyclable plates and cutlery will save clean-up time, stackable containers mean fewer trips to the car, and trash bags are essential for when it’s all done.

3. Keep Safety in Mind

Pack sunscreen and consider a shady spot to keep clear of harmful rays. Place deli salads and dips over ice to prevent food spoilage. Citronella or bug spray can help repel insects, while towels and wet wipes keep hands clean and spills at bay.

4. Add a Personal Touch

Thoughtful details like fresh flowers, throw pillows or a hand-written menu create an Instagram-worthy presentation and make the day special.

5. Turn Up the Fun

Bring along a card game, Frisbee or football for some laid-back fun. Remember to pack a Bluetooth speaker to let the good times roll. Solo picnicking? A book or journal is a great way to take in the natural surroundings and relax.

“With these simple tips, you can spend less time prepping and more time enjoying the day,” comments Megan Torres, brand strategy manager, Reser’s Fine Foods. “We’ve been helping our fans create good times and fun memories for 75 years. The key to packing for a picnic is making it easy, delicious and stress-free!”