January 17, 2019
Whether by plane, train or automobile, eating well when traveling with kids can be hard, expensive and sometimes stressful. Especially if you have picky eaters or kids with food allergies. I have learned that with a little planning and some simple preparation, better eating is possible (and fun) on your next family trip. Sometimes I prep and prepare things beforehand and other times I work with what I’ve got! And yes, we indulge a lot on vacation too — but we do try to find a balance to keep everyone’s energy up throughout the trip! Here are a few tips and ideas for you to consider on your next trip with kids:
At the Airport
Airport terminal food can be super pricey and full of salt. Bring instant oatmeal packets (hot water is always available), squeezable fruit, granola bars, peanut butter crackers, or nuts to stay satisfied and keep your little ones from getting “hangry.” Make homemade banana muffins or oatmeal cookies to satisfy the sweet cravings with less sugar. Bring an empty water bottle to fill after you get through security to keep everyone hydrated.
In the Car
Pack a small cooler with sandwiches (pb&j or hummus with veggies), drinkable yogurts, fresh fruit (we like to fill a Tupperware with sliced apples, strawberries, and grapes & bring cups to fill and eat out of), hard-boiled eggs, fruit and veggie gummies, and bagels with cream cheese. When my girls were little, we also packed dried “O” shaped cereal and string that kids can both string and eat!
At a Hotel
Request a mini-fridge in your hotel room and fill it with yogurt, fresh berries, cheese & crackers — and maybe a beer or bottle of wine for the parents, ahem. You can eat a quick breakfast in the morning with your mini-fridge stash and you will be so happy to come back to your room with some healthy snacks after a day of exploring. If you are staying at a hotel with a breakfast buffet included, find the best offerings. Grab fresh fruit, yogurt, milk, peanut butter packets, and oatmeal—and take any leftovers with you, especially if your kids tend to be distracted at breakfast and super hungry an hour later!
In a Rental
Pre-make some family favorite dishes like lasagna, a casserole or soup that you can cook or reheat in the kitchen. Make grilling easier by prepping spice rubs or marinades before you go since you may not have a stocked pantry. Bring some favorite recipes, visit a local grocery store or market to buy fresh ingredients to cook instead of dining out every night.
At a Restaurant
Try to eat early with kids to avoid peak restaurant hours and order an appetizer as soon as you are seated — edamame, hummus
Out and About
Pack a backpack with water, trail mix and a sweet treat for the kiddos like lollipops or small chocolates. Add a farmers’ market to your itinerary so you can enjoy local food and learn about the area. Throw a light blanket, wrap or towel in your backpack, grab a variety of local foods at the market and enjoy a picnic while exploring.
General Tips
- Don’t forget about drinks — water, juice or other low-sugar options.
- Overpack snacks! Pack more snacks than you think you will need because you just never know.
- Pack some new snacks that you don’t often have at home to make things feel more special and fun.
- Try to get some protein in most of your snacks and meals.
- Try foods you don’t normally have when in new places (dessert included!).
- No matter the age of your kids, bring wipes!
Food and eating is a big part of the travel experience! In the end, I think a little preparation goes a long way plus it helps keep your picky eaters satisfied and addresses family members with food allergies. Try new foods, model good food behavior with your kids, and indulge in special things to make the food and travel process easier & fun!
Read other food and recipe articles and my 5 Tips for Parenting Picky Eaters!
