As spring comes to a close, summer is officially on the horizon and we couldn’t be more excited to spend a good few lazy summer afternoons in the park with our friends. But there’s more to an impromptu park hang than just a blanket and some snacks, so we’ve rounded up five essential things that will take your park hang game to the next level this season.

1. The Perfect Blanket
Pick a cozy wooly blanket for the park from your linen closet and prepare to stick with it. This blanket is going to wear differently than something you would normally use inside and can make or break the number of people who can sit with you. We recommend finding one that’s at least 5 x 5 feet square made from thick wool, because the ground can sometimes be pretty cold, especially if you’re in the shade. Find a cloth bag to store it in when it’s not in use at home so you don’t mix it up with your other clean blankets!
2. Portable Audio
This one is a game changer. Having a killer playlist is sure to make you the most popular place to sit near. Pay attention to the sound quality of the device you choose too; nobody likes the guy with the abrasive bass or tinny treble. Make sure it’s charged up to last at least three hours and get your playlist ready to rock. If you can find a device that has bluetooth capabilities, everyone can take a turn at playing DJ!
3. Epic Snacks
Trail mix and juice boxes are for boring brown baggers. Kick your park hang up a notch by packing a large wooden or plastic cutting board to display a selection of cheeses, meats, baguette and fruits on (and don’t forget to pre-slice everything or bring a knife to serve it with). If you’re feeling adventurous, pack a full-on meal, like individually wrapped porchetta sandwiches with hot sauce and truffle mayo for dipping along with sliced watermelon for dessert (everybody loves a good slice of melon in the park!). Don’t forget the napkins!
4. Sunscreen & Allergy Medication
Once you’ve got your blanket, audio, and food situation covered, there are a few things you should always make sure to bring with you to the park that most people seem to often overlook. There’s nothing worse than arriving on a super sunny afternoon without a drop of sunscreen or getting caught sitting near the weeds or a shaggy dog without a wink of allergy defense. For us the trusted choice in allergy meds is always REACTINE®. It relieves allergy symptoms quickly in 20 minutes and lasts for up to 24 hours. Not a bad deal. So go ahead and throw some SPF 30 and REACTINE® into your blanket bag now, so you’re never caught unprepared or without any to share.
5. Games
There’s more to being entertained in the park besides food and music, and let’s be honest, sometimes you can get bored or sleepy after an hour or so in the sun. So pack some interactive games, cards, books, or even crafts to keep your friends engaged and entertained. Especially one that pushes everyone outside their comfort zone and leads to more laughter and fun.
This post was sponsored by the makers of REACTINE®. Thoughts and opinions are my own.