Vogue Australia may receive advertising or affiliate commission if you buy through our links. Read morehere.If you haven’t felt the warm, fragrant embrace ofspringyet, you’re probably not living in Australia. All around the country, there’s been a shift in the air—a gradual winding down of winter that’s certainly a welcome respite from the chill. And if there’s one way to embrace the new season, surely it has to be with an outdoor picnic with your closest and dearest?If you’re looking to enjoy the spring sunshine by eating outdoors, then you’ll want to add some seasonal picnic essentials to your arsenal. These days, it’s easy to forgo the paper plates and plastic cutlery and stock up on a bunch of stylish, ’gram-worthy investments that will see you through more than one outdoor activity.Shopping sustainably(or at least, with longevity in mind) is not only better for the environment, it also serves as the greatest excuse to get yourpicnic style sortedonce and for all.From blankets and baskets to cutlery and even outdoor accessories for your pets; here, we’ve compiled a list of perfect picnic essentials that will have you dining alfresco in no time. And yes, there’s nary a plastic plate in sight…Sign up to theVogue Living newsletterThe best picnic essentials to shop nowForget tipped wine glasses and messy food spills—this foldable picnic table is perfect for enjoying alfresco wine and cheese platters with up to four people.Shop now: Alex Liddy Acacia Picnic Table, $139.99 from My HouseThere’s nothing better than bringing your furry friend along for an afternoon in the sun, but you need to ensure they’re hydrated. With Frank Green’s chic new pet collection, which offers a sleek silicone bowl that’s been designed to attach onto your one litre water bottle, that’s never been easier.Shop now: Ceramic reusable bottle 1L, $59.95 from Frank GreenShop now: Silicone pet bowl, $19.95 from Frank GreenMatch your dog’s accessories to its stylish new silicone bowl while you’re at it. Available in a variety of on-trend hues, there’s a colour for every pet.Shop now: Dog gift box set, $119.95 from Frank GreenA stylish and fully insulated picnic basket with a lid that doubles as a cheese or cutting board? We’re completely sold. Did we mention it fits a champagne bottle too?Shop now: The Beach People picnic basket, $199 from The Beach PeopleWith a design harking back to 1977, this icon of Scandinavian craftsmanship will keep your drink warm for up to six hours, and comes with a screw top which is perfect for transporting to your ideal picnic spot.Shop now: Stelton EM77 vacuum 1-litre jug in dusty green, $111 from Finnish Design ShopAn indisputable fashion classic, Loewe’s baskets are summer essential—and this large style is perfect for beach and picnic days.Shop now: Loewe large leather-trimmed basket tote, $855 from MyTheresaA classic wicker picnic basket never dates, so it’s an investment you’ll enjoy for years to come. This four-person set comes with everything you need, including a picnic rug, stainless steel cutlery, glasses, napkins, plates, salt and pepper shakers and a bottle opener.Shop now: Alfresco Deluxe 4 Person Picnic Basket, $114.95 from MyerThis reusable, lightweight cutlery set is made from plant-derived material, so it’s biodegradable within about 2-3 years, meaning it’s good for the planet and easy to carry around for picnics and camping trips.Shop now: EcoSouLife All Natural Biodegradable 12-piece Cutlery Cluster in Sand, $33.50 from Flora and FaunaPrefer to keep your hands free when carting around your picnic essentials? This highly organised backpack contains all the picnic paraphernalia you’ll ever need, from a cheese knife to a tablecloth, and it even has pockets to store everything.Shop now: Safari four person picnic bag set, $55 from CatchThere’s nothing more chic and picnic-appropriate than a gingham tablecloth, and we love this sustainably sourced linen version from Thekla.Shop now: Thekla olive gingham tablecloth, $180 from TheklaNot all picnic locations are created equal—some require a bring-your-own shade option. We love the muted green hue of this beach/picnic umbrella that will be a staple for years to come.Shop now: Sunday Supply Co. Tallow beach umbrella, $249 from Sunday Supply Co.There will be no chance of breaking anything with this resin bowl from Dinosaur Designs.Shop now: Earth medium marbled-resin serving bowl, $200 from Dinosaur DesignsIf you haven’t got the memo yet:sage green homewaresare having a major moment. Take the trend outdoors with these beautiful linen napkins—they work for picnics and at-home soirees, too.Shop now: Bed Threads 100% Linen Scalloped Napkins in Sage & Olive (Set of Four), $70 from Bed ThreadsWhere to buy picnic baskets and rugsWe’ve outlined a few sources to buy picnic baskets and rugs above (think: Myer, The Beach People, Catch and Amazon) but most good quality homewares stores will stock fully equipped picnic baskets and special picnic rugs with a waterproof underlayer (to stop any moisture seeping through if the ground is wet). Ideally, most picnic rugs should fold up easily for storage, so look for Velcro or buckled fastenings and carry straps to help you fold and carry your rug around the great outdoors.What should you look for in a picnic basket? It’s really a matter of choice, but we suggest looking for a classic wicker option stacked with plates, cutlery, glasses, napkins and a rug. Look for insulated options that will help to keep your food fresh and drinks cool on a warm day.What picnic food to packThe sky’s really the limit here, but popular picnic food options include cheese platters (which pair perfectly with a bottle of wine), salads, sandwiches, cold cuts and antipasto plates. Be mindful of the weather and how long your food might be out of the fridge, too. For example, you might want to the skip seafood, meat and anything frozen like ice-cream if your food is going to sit out for a while. If you’re worried about food spoiling, consider packing it in an insulated lunch bag with an ice-pack or esky packed with ice. And don’t forget the bug spray!Subscribe to Vogue Living and you will become a member of our Vogue VIP subscriber-only loyalty program and be rewarded with exclusive event invitations, special insider access, must-have product offers, gifts from our luxury partners and so much more.Subscribe today.