Everything heats up during the summer, so why don’t you fire up a grill on your next date? Spontaneity makes your outing spicier. Call your favorite guy or gal pal and set up a little rendezvous in the park. Keep things lightweight with these gadgets from some popular stores and Internet sites. --yvette caslin

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Sidekick
This Mini Grill in Cooler Bag ($29.95) is collapsible and fits snugly in the trunk of your automobile. It comes with an insulated cooler bag to keep the meat and vegetables fresh, and it has a zipper pocket to hold plates and utensils. Available @ Crate and Barrel.

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Laid Back
The Kelsyus Backpack Event Chair ($39.95) features a mesh bag for storing sunscreen, bathing suits, cell phones and other essentials; and it has a cup holder on the right arm. Purchase a canopy for needed shade ($17.95). Available @ www.everywherechair.com.

photo by steed media service

Chow
Civilized people can’t have a picnic without cutlery. This Travel Utensil Set ($12.50) is perfect for picnics. The fork, knife and spoon fold in half for easy storage. Available @ www.eddiebauer.com.

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Made in the Shade
This easy-pitch Sun Shelter ($39.50) protects you from overexposure to the sun and at twilight, it provides adequate coverage if things begin to heat up between you and your mate (wink, wink). Available @ Eddie Bauer.