Here are our top tips for making healthy snacks (and meals) for your next road trip:

1. Create a plan – consider the length of your trip and the time you are leaving so you can be sure to have enough goodies to last until you arrive at your destination. Do you need to cover off lunch and a snack or two? Be sure to create a list for your grocery shop so you will have all the ingredients you need to take on the trip with you. Bring a little extra more then you need just in case.
2. Keep it cool – if you are bringing protein or other items that need to stay cool with you be sure to have a cooler and some ice packs ready to keep the items from spoiling during your trip.
3. Pack some protein – it’s easy to carb out on road trips however make sure you have some protein to keep your blood sugar stable and your appetite satisfied. Such things as nuts and seeds, preservative free jerky, cheese or yogurt for example.
4. Make your own snack mix – it is really fun for the kids to make their own trail mix. On the grocery shop before you leave grab an assortment of bulk items such as nuts, raisins, seeds, pretzels, chocolate, etc. Have everyone create their own to their liking. This way there won’t be any complaints from the back seat!
5. Bring your water bottle and stay hydrated – avoiding sugary drinks and opting for water instead will keep your blood sugar level and you feeling energized.
6. Keep it litter less – in an effort to save mother earth try to avoid plastic baggies, plastic wrap and plastic beverage bottles. There are lots of great options for reusable containers and food storage/wraps.
7. Choose wisely if you do stop – if you do end up stopping for meals or snacks ensure you are choosing the least processed options possible and opting for lean protein and veggies.

Here are some ideas for some travel worthy snacks. Fill a cooler with ice or cool packs and load it with plenty of nutritious, easy-to-eat snacks such as:  

• Fresh fruit
• Homemade DIY trail mix
• Dried seaweed snacks
• Preservative-free meat jerky
• Homemade popcorn
• Hummus with veggies
• Plain yogurt with honey, nuts and seeds
• Celery sticks with cashew/almond/peanut butter
• Homemade energy bar or bites 
• Guacamole with veggies or whole grain chip
• Cheese and whole grain crackers
• Homemade muffin 
• Salsa and veggies or corns chips
• Apple slices with cheese
• Rice cakes topped with hummus and cherry tomatoes
• A hard-boiled egg
• Cheese and grapes
• Kale chips
• Dark Chocolate 70% or higher