Traveling with kids can be stressful, especially when it comes to mealtime. As a parent, you want to ensure your child is eating healthy and nutritious foods, but finding healthy snacks while on the road can be challenging. Below are some tips for healthy snacks for traveling with kids that will keep them satisfied and energized throughout the trip.
Fruits and vegetables are the perfect snacks for kids while traveling. They are portable, easy to eat and full of nutrients. Some great options include sliced apples, bananas, grapes, carrots, celery, and cherry tomatoes. You can also pack some hummus or peanut butter for dipping.
Nuts and seeds are a great source of protein and healthy fats. Some options include almonds, walnuts, cashews, pistachios, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds. Just be sure to check if anyone in your family has a nut allergy before packing them.
Granola bars are a convenient and healthy snack for traveling. Look for bars that are low in sugar and high in fiber. Some great options include KIND bars, Larabars, and Nature Valley bars.
Yogurt is a great source of protein and calcium. Look for Greek yogurt, which has more protein than regular yogurt. You can also pack some fresh fruit and granola to mix in with the yogurt.
Cheese is a great source of protein and calcium. Some options include string cheese, cheese sticks, and babybel cheese. You can also pair the cheese with some whole-grain crackers or sliced apples.
Smoothies can be a great way to get some fruits and vegetables into your child’s diet while on the road. Pack a blender bottle and some pre-cut fruits and vegetables. When it’s time for a snack, just add some yogurt or milk and blend.
Can I pack homemade snacks?
Yes, you can pack homemade snacks. Just be sure to pack them in airtight containers to keep them fresh.
Can I pack snacks that need to be refrigerated?
It’s best to avoid snacks that need to be refrigerated while traveling. However, if you have a cooler, you can pack some perishable items such as cheese and yogurt.
Can I pack snacks with nuts if my child has a nut allergy?
No, if your child has a nut allergy, it’s best to avoid packing snacks with nuts. Instead, opt for seeds or other protein sources.
How do I keep snacks fresh while traveling?
Pack snacks in airtight containers or ziplock bags to keep them fresh. You can also use a cooler to keep perishable items cold.
Can I pack snacks that are high in sugar?
It’s best to avoid snacks that are high in sugar while traveling. Look for snacks that are low in sugar and high in fiber and protein.
How many snacks should I pack per child?
Pack enough snacks to last the entire trip, plus a few extra just in case. It’s better to have too many snacks than not enough.
Can I pack snacks for the entire family?
Yes, you can pack snacks for the entire family. Just be sure to pack enough to last the entire trip.
What should I do if my child refuses to eat the snacks I packed?
Try to involve your child in the snack-packing process. Let them choose some of the snacks they want to bring. If your child still refuses to eat the snacks, try offering them again later or offer a different snack.
Pros
Healthy snacks can help keep your child energized and satisfied while traveling. They can also help prevent hunger-induced tantrums and meltdowns. Packing your own snacks can also save you money and time, as you won’t have to stop at fast food restaurants or gas stations for snacks.
Tips
When packing snacks for traveling, be sure to pack a variety of options to keep your child interested. Try to involve your child in the snack-packing process to get them excited about the trip. Also, be sure to pack enough snacks to last the entire trip, plus a few extra just in case.
Summary
Packing healthy snacks for traveling with kids can be a challenge, but it’s worth it to ensure your child is eating nutritious foods. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, granola bars, yogurt, cheese, and smoothies are all great options for healthy snacks while on the road. Be sure to pack enough snacks to last the entire trip and involve your child in the snack-packing process to get them excited about the trip.