Picnic baskets have evolved from wicker baskets to backpacks, but their purpose remains the same: to carry food, plates, drinks, and cutlery. Classic wicker baskets are still available, but picnic bags are more popular due to their ease of carrying and temperature regulation options. Accessories are also available. Prices range from $20 to over $300.
Historically, a picnic basket was literally a basket used to carry food and other supplies for having a meal, usually lunch, in the wild. Most picnic baskets these days are more like backpacks, but their basic purpose – to carry food, plates, drinks and cutlery – remains the same.
Classic style picnic baskets are still available from a number of manufacturers. These baskets are usually made from wicker or a similar material. They consist of one large storage space, usually with a handle and flaps that open at both ends at the top. These baskets are suitable for transporting food and liquids relatively short distances, but temperature control is not possible and often the food will suffer trauma. More advanced wicker picnic baskets, such as English-style baskets, have clips inside to hold plates, utensils, and a large picnic cloth.
Picnic bags are the other basic type of picnic basket available in the market. These perform essentially the same function as a traditional picnic basket, but more closely resemble a backpack. They feature a variety of clips and sleeves for all types of cutlery, napkins, cloths and dishes. They also usually have holsters on the side or front to hold wine or juice bottles. The obvious advantage of a tote over a traditional basket is the greatly reduced difficulty in carrying it long distances, as the weight is distributed much better. Additionally, the bags are usually well padded to help protect the food from damage in transit.
More expensive bags include systems to help regulate the temperature of foods and liquids being carried. This can involve heavy insulation on the entire bag or different areas for hot and cold foods. Many bags, even those that don’t regulate the temperature of the food, have insulation on the wine sleeves to ensure the wine stays at its proper temperature.
Picnic baskets and picnic bags come in all shapes, sizes and colors. There are varieties available for specific functions, such as plastic beach bags. Prices range drastically, from $20 for a simple traditional basket to over $300 for a durable, well-insulated picnic bag.
A wide range of picnic accessories is usually available wherever picnic baskets are sold. Accessories can include disposable utensils, unbreakable dishes, padded cloths for place settings, and a variety of thermoses, including ones designed specifically for serving wine.
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