Traveling with kids requires extra preparation, and providing kid-friendly snacks is an important part of the equation. And not just any type of snack will do, it’s essential to focus on health and energy.
Relying on processed or takeout food can leave your kids feeling drained and exhausted once you reach your destination. Instead, pick nutritious snacks that will keep your kids energized and happy throughout the journey. By doing so, you can ensure they are well-fed and healthy during the trip.
6 Good Travel Food Ideas for Kids
- Whole Grain Crackers or Bread
A whole grain bread or cracker is a perfect base for spreading peanut butter or cheese and having it with you in the car or wherever you stay during your trip. These options are great for keeping your child’s fiber intake high while traveling.
- Nuts and Nut Butter Sandwiches
Carrying nuts is probably the best way to keep your child’s tummy full without going through the hassle of cleaning afterward while traveling. Almonds, pistachios, walnuts, cashews, peanuts, etc., are some nuts you can pack on a plane or a road trip. Because they are full of proteins, minerals, good fats, and vitamins, these are a great way to keep your child full for a long time.
Apart from a packet of nuts, you can carry peanut butter (PB without the J) sandwiches or any nut butter sandwich. These sandwiches don’t need any effort – simply spread the butter on the bread, and you’re ready to go!
- Cereals
Cereals are yet another ultimate snacking item that every child loves eating. However, not every cereal you find in the market is healthy. They are loaded with sugar and other junk items you definitely don’t want your kids to eat. But you can always do some research and pick the best cereal for your little one to accompany you on your vacation!
- Fresh Fruits and Veggies
Fruits are filled with essential minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants needed for developing kids. Besides being healthy, fruits are also considered good travel foods to carry when traveling with kids. You can get fresh fruits like berries, apples, plums, and grapes by cutting them and packing them in an airtight container for long hours of freshness.
Fresh vegetables like roasted sweet potatoes, peas, and carrots are great travel-friendly foods. They are a great snacking option for the beginning of a trip since they are perishable and won’t last long unless kept in an insulated cooler.
- Popcorn
Get your child’s fiber and energy needs sorted while on the go with natural popcorn. Look for popcorn with only corn, salt, and oil in the ingredients list when buying from a natural foods store.
The best option is to pop popcorn at home with olive oil or butter and salt for a wholesome snack. Avoid microwave popcorn, as it is often loaded with chemicals.
- Protein Bars
Like cereals, you also need to choose your protein bar wisely. A lot of them are full of sugar, additives, and preservatives. So, always look for natural, organic, and sugar-free bars loaded with nutrients that give energy, not a sugar rush.
Tips to Keep Your Kids Healthy While Traveling
Concerned about contracting sickness while on holiday? The common cold, the flu, or any number of other illnesses can ruin an otherwise joyous holiday. You’ve spent money and energy organizing your family’s trip, so don’t let illness damage your time away. Utilize these tried-and-true tips to learn how to remain healthy while traveling with kids.
- Get Antibacterial Wipes
Antibacterial wipes are a must-have for parents when traveling with kids. Use them to clean surfaces that harbor germs, such as plane tray tables and armrests. Also, use these handy wipes to clean the remote controls, doorknobs, and light switches in your hotel room or vacation rental so they don’t spread germs.
- Wash Your Hands
Washing your hands is the best way to keep germs at bay, especially while traveling. However, this simple act is often forgotten in a rush. Hence, always carry a sanitizer spray or gel in your purse for quick germ-free hands!
Also, if your child carries their own bag everywhere, attach a small hand sanitizer to it and help them form the habit of sanitizing their hands after touching any surface.
- Drink Plenty of Water
While traveling, getting carried away and forgetting to drink water is normal for kids (even parents). However, you want to avoid that because traveling to places with high altitudes can lead to severe dehydration. Carry your water bottle everywhere and keep making pit stops to refill it.
Making Smarter Food Choices While Traveling
It’s difficult to keep your child healthy during a vacation, but it is essential to do that so they don’t get sick afterward, especially if they have low immunity. I hope these six better travel food choices and healthy traveling habits help you in some way.
