7 tips to use Windows Vista to plan a perfect picnic

1. Find the perfect spot

Having a picnic is as much about the location as anything else, and there are several services on the internet to help you find that ideal spot. Try the location finder service on Picnicshop to search for recommended local spots. Then, to really get a feel for the area, use Live Maps and view an aerial shot. Just enter the location details and zoom in on your picnic position.

2. Check the weather

There’s no greater disaster in the world of outdoor spreads than a downpour turning your perfect spot into the 1997 Glastonbury Festival. Use the Windows Vista weather gadget to check the forecast for your area, and make sure the sun shines on your picnic parade.

3. Get equipped

So you’re chilling out, catching the rays, lying on the grass... when you start getting damned uncomfortable and you find an ant nibbling at your sandwich. It’s time to invest in some picnic paraphernalia: insulated cool bags, rugs and one of those hampers with champagne glasses and forks will make your experience far more agreeable. There are several specialist stores online, such as Picnicshop and Picnicacccessories.

4. Make a meal of it

If you’re taking a loved one or potential loved one on a romantic picnic this summer, a few garage sandwiches and a packet of salt and vinegar are unlikely to impress. There are plenty of web sites on hand to give you ideas for creating delightful alfresco dishes. If you’re feeling adventurous then the BBC web site offers hundreds of picnic recipes from top telly chefs. However, if your cooking skills are a little more basic, Tesco also has some great culinary suggestions.

5. Find your way

When travelling into unknown territory for your picnic, it would be a good idea to know exactly where you should be going. Go to Live Maps for driving directions and a printable map of your route. With turn-by-turn directions, customised maps, trip times and more, Microsoft AutoRoute 2007 will ensure that you never get lost again. The latest incarnation comes with a GPS tracking device, turning your Windows Vista laptop into your very own a satellite navigation system.

6. Avoid food poisoning

While picnics in Britain may be a safer bet than in some countries, with bear repellent and anti-venom jabs not strictly necessary, you may need to protect your ‘inner self’. Consuming perishable food that’s been sitting in the sun for a while can be a recipe for a dodgy stomach and some quality time with the toilet. Check Food Standards Agency and The Eat Well Campaign for food safety advice.

7. Entertain yourself

What could be better than sitting out in the sun, enjoying delicious food with some ambient music? Use your Windows Vista laptop to take your entire music library with you, so you don’t leave that special tune behind. Those without laptops can transfer their music to an MP3 player, and invest in some inflatable speakers, such as the Ellula Hot Air models.