Summer’s almost over, so with just a few fair-weather days left to enjoy, we’re heading to one of our favorite picnic spots to soak up the last of the sun. As for what we’re packing in  our baskets…  here are the five essentials we always have.

1. Baguette

It’s not a picnic without this most emblematic of French breads. The long, skinny loaf’s name actually means “stick” (and is also used to say “wand,” so Harry Potter had a magic baguette in French!) Not all baguettes are created alike, so seek out only the very best: a former winner of the “Best Baguette in Paris” contest is always a good bet!

2. Wine

While public intoxication is certainly illegal in France, public drinking is not! It’s not uncommon to see folks sitting in a park enjoying a glass of wine or a bottle of beer. Just don’t forget cups and a corkscrew!

3. Rillettes

Rillettes are one of our favorite charcuteries to bring along on a picnic. This spread of shredded meat (often duck) combined with fat is delicious slathered on bread, and it’s sold in most supermarkets in an easy-to-transport tub!

4. Cheese

Is a picnic really Parisian if there’s no cheese? Some easy-to-transport varieties include Camembert and Saint-Marcellin, both of which are sold in a handy container perfect for setting on your picnic blanket (or on the ground).

5. Pastry

Don’t forget about dessert! Most pâtisseries will box up your pastry selection for easy transport, making this the perfect choice for a picnic dessert. Discover some of our favorites with our pastry tour!

Bonus: The Emergency Picnic

Paris sunshine is famously fickle, so when we’re suddenly blessed with a sunny day, speed is occasionally of the essence. That’s when our favorite boulangerie becomes our best friend: local bakeries make fresh sandwiches to offer every single day. The classic Parisien is simple ham-and-butter, and it’s a delicious, truly Parisian treat.