Eating smart and eating well is something that we should all strive for each and every day. And this shouldn’t be any different when traveling. In some ways, this goal should be even more important in our travels. Changing our normal routine can lead to making unhealthy food choices. And who isn’t guilty of this? Road tripping can, of course, be more disruptive to this routine. Why? Because there’s something about the open road that seems to make everyone hungry. Munching on chips while drinking a sugary drink. Sounds familiar, right? Well, I’m here to give you some advice on how to avoid this pitfall. So read on to see my tips on how to eat smart while road tripping.
The most important step is that…
YOU MUST COMMIT TO A ROAD TRIP FOOD PLAN!
You’ve invested time in planning the perfect road trip, chock full of exciting destinations. But are you making the same effort in the area of meal planning? For most, probably not.
Food has evolved as an important aspect of my family’s travel journey. And doing some research has unearthed some foodie gems throughout our travels. This strategy may take some time the first time around but it does get easier with each subsequent road trip.
My road trip travel food plan consists of:
- all the tips that are discussed below,
- researching any food and restaurant stops while driving,
- researching restaurants, markets and food stores in all destinations and, last but not least…
- committing to this plan and following through!
Now let’s take a look at all parts of this “road trip” food plan. First…
PACK A COOLER (or two)
If you are only bringing one, pack a substantial sized one that can hold containers, ice packs and more. Keep in mind that you need ice to keep certain foods cold, especially if you’re traveling in a hot climate.
My family also brings a smaller one as well (usually soft and collapsable) to use for road side picnics, for touring etc..A separate cooler for drinks is also a good idea.
TIP: Frozen water bottles great ice packs and can be used as an alternative or in addition to store bought ice packs.
This leads me into the next tip which is to…
PACK YOUR OWN FOOD (WHEN POSSIBLE)
Starting off your road trip with a full cooler is easy. It’s making sure that you continue replenishing your cooler at your destinations or markets along the way. Bringing a cooler is to be used not just when you start your road trip but throughout your trip!
This requires some meal planning and problem solving to pack the right food items and keep your foods safe from any contamination. No one wants to get sick from spoiled food. To prevent food-borne illness, foods need to be stored at temperatures less than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Cheese, yogurt, mayonnaise, milk, eggs, meat and fish are especially important to keep cool. Make sure that you pack those right next to the ice.
Veggies and fruit can be around the perimeter since being in a cooler will help them last longer, but aren’t as essential to keep cold.
Dry snacks such as nuts, popcorn, granola bars etc.. can be put in a separate bag or in the cooler if there is room.
Also, refillable water bottles are a good option.
So, now let’s make sure that we…
SNACK HEALTHY AND WISELY
Let’s admit it, road trips seem to bring on the munchies! Chips, cookies, sugary drinks seem to be the go to food. But these items can be your worst enemy. And unfortunately, long hours in a car seem to encourage this type of eating.
But you don’t have to succumb to this! Plan well by packing enough healthy and delicious snacks and drinks and you will be much happier (and so will your stomach).
Some suggestions include:
- Pack individual snack bags in small sandwich bags– portions are important. Cereal (not sugary type!), nuts and seeds, popcorn, pretzels, healthy crackers, veggies are all good choices.
- If not preparing individual bags, then pick items that are portable (snack bars, popcorn bags, etc..) Markets offer a variety of foods in snack sized bags.
STICK TO A MEAL ROUTINE
Traveling takes us away from our normal day to day routine. And of course, that’s one of the fun parts of traveling. But leaving an eating schedule back home can do havoc to your intestinal tract. Try to schedule your meals at the same times each day as you would at home.
PLAN YOUR MEALS
Yes. Each and every one of them.
Let’s start with breakfast. This meal may be offered as part of your hotel or b&b stay. Or if you’re staying at a rental with a kitchen, purchase breakfast foods at the loo start each day. If not, choose places that will offer you a healthy variety.
If driving during lunch or dinner hours, determine where you’ll be in your road trip during those hours. Look into the towns in that area and food options. The internet is truly our best friend. Don’t leave these meals up to spontaneity or the famous, “we’ll find something along the way.” This will most likely lead to unhealthy choices. Why do you think all the rest stops have only fast food options? Get off an exit and you’ll most likely find a good restaurant.
Planning meals at your destination is easy. I always suggest researching a couple of dining options for each meal. I also like to mix up the types of cuisines that we eat.
KEEP HYDRATED
Pack plenty of drinks and reusable water bottles. Driving makes one real thirsty!
24 packs of water bottles are a great choice and they last for awhile But plain water can get boring. Mix it up with flavored seltzer and healthy ice teas and juices, if possible. Try and avoid sweet drinks and sodas. And with drinking too much comes the need to stop along the way. Keep that in mind.
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Interested in more insight about food and travel? Head over to my post “Ten Food Commandments for Travelers.” Click here: https://followmyyellowbrickroad.com/?page_id=887