THERE is nothing like tucking into a perfectly presented picnic.
Sales of al fresco eating accessories have shot up by 122 per cent at Hobbycraft this month.
So today we bring you five budget-friendly ideas for putting on a fine spread . . .
PORTION CONTROL: Food storage containers are vital to maintain freshness.
Look for ones that are airtight and leak-proof so goodies do not spoil, and bulk buy to save money.
Asda’s colourful 21-piece container set is £7 and includes 3-litre to 125ml tubs.
Reuse for packed lunches.
KEEP IT COOL: Ice packs are a great way to keep food and drinks cold.
Get some bright cactus and pineapple-shaped reusable novelty ice blocks at Wilko for £2, or make your own.
Fill zip-top sandwich bags with water and freeze, before popping into your picnic basket or cooler.
Most read in Money
Empty when melted, take the bags home and refill.
DRINK IT IN: Drinks decanters with taps can be pretty.
But try washing out large milk cartons thoroughly and fill with squash to keep kids happy.
Another option is to make your own version of the Capri Sun cartons.
Get 20 reusable clear drinks pouches with reusable straws for £5.29 at Amazon.
Just add juice and freeze.
TUCK IN: Forget sandwiches! Buy a pack of 12 300ml glass jars with lids at hobbycraft.co.uk for £7 and make jar salads by layering veg before adding dressing and shaking.
Make healthy yoghurt and frozen fruit jars that will keep other goodies cold — but thaw by the time you eat.
CARRY ON: A picnic basket is a stylish way to keep everything together.
But if it is not insulated, food will spoil quicker.
Line with foil to give grub the best chance of lasting, plus help keep dust and bacteria at bay.
A CUT ABOVE: Cutlery and utensils can be brought from home.
But if you want a reusable set, check out the Dunelm sale.
The classic 25- piece picnic set includes plastic cups and four small containers, plus cutlery, and is reduced from £8 to £5.60.
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
Deal of the day
DON’T sleep on the Malmo Li bedframe deal at DFS.
Previously £599, it is now £300.
SAVE: £299
Cheap treat
A BOTTLE of Vimto raspberry, orange and passion fruit squash was £3, but is now £2 at Morrisons.
SAVE: £1
What’s new?
EAT into your phone bill with the Airtime Rewards app.
Get ten per cent cashback towards your monthly mobile costs when eating at Burger King.
Sign up at airtimerewards. co.uk, add your card details and start saving as you spend.
Top swap
FRESHEN up with Jo Malone sea salt and wood sage cologne, £55 for 30ml.
Or try the similar M&S sea salt and neroli 100ml EDT, for £12.50.
SAVE: £42.50
Leah’s little helper
GET up to 75 per cent off summer fashion at everything 5pounds.com.
The site sells leftover high street stock and current bargains, including shoes from £2.50.
Shop & save
KIDS can get some summer fun on a Scuttlebug XL scooter, perfect for two- to four-year-olds.
Usually £36.99, now £27.99 at Very.co.uk.
SAVE: £9
Hot right now
GET up to 20 per cent off Method products.
Wild rhubarb & peach blossom handwash was £3.50, now £3 at Sainsbury’s.
PLAY NOW TO WIN £200
JOIN thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle.
Every month we’re giving away £100 to 250 lucky readers – whether you’re saving up or just in need of some extra cash, The Sun could have you covered.
Every Sun Savers code entered equals one Raffle ticket.
The more codes you enter, the more tickets you’ll earn and the more chance you will have of winning!