If you’re like most families I know, you have plans to travel this summer. Whether your mode of transportation is plane, train, or automobile, eating healthy on the road can be a real challenge! Remember, vacation is a time to relax and rejuvenate so make an effort to feed your body right when you’re away from home. Here are some ideas to help make your travel adventures happy, healthy, and delicious:

  • Water! Dehydration can lead to fatigue and worsen hunger. Pack gallon jugs of high-quality spring water and refill personal water bottles at each pit stop.
  • Vegetables are nature’s “fast foods.” It only take a few minutes to chop a bag full of carrots, celery, jicama, bok choy, romaine lettuce, radish, etc. Veggies are hydrating and packed with essential nutrients.
  • Fruit is another healthy and delicious “fast food.” Grapes, cherries, berries, and bananas travel well and will satisfy a sweet craving.
  • Rice cakes are a great base for raw nut butters. If my family is really hungry we’ll add sliced banana on top.
  • Avocado is another fantastic topping for rice cakes. They are packed with fiber and healthy fat to keep you going! Use a plastic spoon to scoop out the luscious green flesh.
  • Hard boiled eggs are the perfect travel food. Packed with protein and easy to eat on the run!
  • Organic, nitrate-free lunch meat always has a place in our cooler. My girls love making “roll-ups” with turkey or ham, romaine lettuce, and avocado.
  • Jerky is another great protein source that travels well in the heat of summer. Look for natural, nitrate-free products.
  • Roasted chickpeas are easy to make and a great source of plant protein for the vegetarian traveler.
  • Trail mix is fun to munch on in the car or on the run. Make your own using raw nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and a few dark chocolate chips for fun!
  • Homemade energy bars are a family favorite. If you’re short on time, my favorite store-bought variety is LaraBars. They contain only a few wholesome ingredients, with no added sugar.
  • Homemade granola and yogurt travel well and really keep you going! My family is dairy-free so we pack coconut or almond yogurt. This combination makes for a great breakfast on the go or a hearty snack after a long hike.

I hope these ideas help to make all of your adventures healthy and stress-free. Until next time, make every bite count!