For the family schelp I leave my fancy picnic basket at home and usually use cardboard boxes or paper grocery bags, and coolers, with Ziplock bagas and containers in them. I think Tubtrugs would be great for the purpose, as well. Easier to carry, and with less failure, but then we always have lots of bags and boxes that need reusing so I've never gotten any. There are all kinds of interesting bento box configurations that would work for a small group. Also stainless tiffins. My favorite picnic basket for concert in the park kinds of things is a woven rectangular cube with a shoulder strap. It has a removable soft cooler that fills the interior, and sides that hinge up with wire legs so that the top forms a small table. It can with dishes, but those never get used. As you mentioned, they take up too much room. On those occasions we use disposable, even if they're coming home for reuse, because they're lighter and take up less space.

Annielu~ I sure envy those of you who can pick a pattern so quickly and get it done. ha I have 3 baskets that have been waiting for me to pick the "perfect" thing to paint on them for a loooooong time. 2 of them I got at the TS for $1 each as well so it's not like I'm out a lot of money if I don't get them "perfect". ha Your's looks great. I love the fall stuff. Looks good there with your little scarecrow. ~Anj

another great idea...i love picnic baskets, and collect them myself! yours all go so well together :D kudzu

We have a wooden basket like that, that has been used for holding dog toys for many years. We do however also have a picnic backpack that has plates, utensils, wine glasses, a cheese knife and a cutting board, a rolled up blanket, storage for a wine bottle and an insulated compartment to keep food warm or cold.