How to Build the Perfect Picnic Basket at Trader Joe’s

As the weather warms up, it’s time to embrace outdoor dining. 

Trader Joe’s is a treasure trove of snacks ready to pack for any al fresco escapade. Load your basket with your favorite fresh produce, and hit the road with these convenient—and delicious—finds. No need to roam the aisles because we’ve curated a shopping list to cover all the picnic essentials.  

Whether you’re lounging in a local park or basking in the beachy sunshine, good food will amplify your social experience. Savor these sandwiches, snacks, sweets, and something to sip on while you spend time with your loved ones. 

From exciting new releases to beloved classic buys, here’s what to buy this spring to elevate your picnic game: 

Egg Salad ($4.99) on Brioche Buns ($3.99) 

Courtesy of Trader Joe’s

Courtesy of Trader Joe’s

Easy to prepare and portable, sandwiches are a must. This vegetarian-friendly entrée option is sure to satisfy. Just spread some of this creamy egg salad onto fluffy, buttery brioche buns. The bread’s subtle sweetness will complement the salty, Dijon tang. 

Savory Squares ($3.99) with Ivy’s Reserve Somerset Red Cheese ($5.49) 

Courtesy of Trader Joe’s

Courtesy of Trader Joe’s

Savory Squares are a new vegan, gluten-free version of timeless cheddar cheese crackers. 

Their satisfying snap is only optimized by adding on slices of fresh cheese. Trader Joe’s April 2024 Spotlight Cheese brings nutty and fruity notes for a mellow creamy addition to your snack. Fun fact: This cheese is made at Wyke Farms, whose carbon-neutral cheddar line prioritizes sustainable cheesemaking processes. 

Piquant Popcorn ($2.99) 

Courtesy of Trader Joe’s

While you’re picnicking, nibble on this savory seasoned popcorn. It’s a light accompaniment perfect for snacking in the sunshine. 

Salted Caramel Swirl Danish ($3.99) 

Courtesy of Trader Joe’s

Every outing requires a sweet treat. This limited edition dessert, crafted by a Danish bakery, features layers and layers of dough filled with almond cream and custard swirl.

Sparkling Green Tea with Pineapple Juice ($3.99) 

Courtesy of Trader Joe’s

This bubbly beverage adds a pineapple punch, infusing springtime fruity flavors for the most refreshing of drinks. 

Lavender Reusable Insulated Bag ($7.99) 

Courtesy of Trader Joe’s

You’ll need something to keep all this food fresh! Lucky for you, Trader Joe’s is stocked up on insulated totes to keep about eight gallons of goods cool. Even luckier, it comes in an adorable pastel purple.