While embarking on a family road trip is exciting, we all know that keeping the little ones fueled with snacks is the key to a happier journey. We also know that picking healthy snacks is important but it can sometimes be hard to think of an alternative to the crisps. Well forget the sugary temptations often associated with road trips as my suggestions are kid-friendly, healthy and convenient. So while you are sorting your ultimate motorhome packing list make sure you grab some of these snacks options. Some suggestions are for eating on-the-go in the motorhome while others are ideal for when you have a pit stop at a picnic site or somewhere similar.
Cooking in the Motorhome
Cooking in a motorhome adds an extra dimension to the travel experience, requiring creativity and resourcefulness in the kitchen. With limited space and resources, it’s about embracing simplicity and making the most of your ingredients. When at a rest stop we have the option to cook in our oven and hob or outside on a BBQ. While on the road however, especially on big travel days, having some kid-friendly snacks that are easy to prepare keeps everyone happy and energised. And also limits the dishes we accumulate on the way, which is extremely important to me.
5 Kid-Friendly Snacks
1. Fresh Fruit
Pre-cut fruit packs, like apple slices, grapes, or berries, conveniently packed in individual portions can be handy for eating on the go. However, we normally just pack a large box of fresh fruit like bananas, apples, pears and small oranges as well as berries in the fridge. Fruit is important for kids because it provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support their growth, development, and overall health.
2. Fresh Vegetables and Dip
Portion out carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks into snack-sized containers or keep them intact and cut them when you stop. Pair them with hummus, cream cheese or any other healthy dips your kids enjoy. Vegetables are important for kids because they are rich in nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are essential for supporting their immune system, growth, and overall well-being.
3. Yogurt and Toppings
Choose yogurt in portable tubes or pouches for mess-free enjoyment on the road. Look for options with low sugar content and high probiotic content to support digestive health. Yogurt is important for kids because it is a rich source of calcium, protein, and probiotics, which promote healthy bone development, aid digestion, and support a strong immune system. We also pack large tubs of natural yogurt and raw honey for picnic stop snacks to go with our berries. We also add chia seeds, nuts and ground flaxseed at times – the combinations are only limited by your imagination.
4. Cheese and Crackers
Create cheese and cracker packs by combining crackers with individual cheese slices. It’s a satisfying combination that offers a balance of protein and carbohydrates. Cheese is important for kids because it provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein, which are crucial for building strong bones and muscles, as well as supporting overall growth and development. Cheese is also great with fruit and we make up these cheese, cracker and fruit picnic plates for our kids at rest stops.
5. Homemade Energy Bites
Prepare homemade energy bites using oats, protein powder, nut butter, honey, and mix-ins like low sugar chocolate chips. Roll them into bite-sized portions for a delicious and nutritious treat. Energy bites provide a quick and convenient source of energy, essential nutrients, and fiber to keep kids fueled and satisfied during activities and adventures. I also love to pack these for hiking trips.
Share your ideas with me
Road trips with the family become even more enjoyable when fueled by a selection of kid-friendly, healthy, and conveniently packed snacks. These options not only cater to young taste buds but also ensure a balance of nutrients to keep everyone energised for the adventures that lie ahead. Make sure you share your ideas for other healthy kid-friendly snacks with me in the comments.
Meg
I also like dates as a quick snack, although they have lots of calories, but excellent energy for kids on the go and they have lots of fibre. Great snack ideas there. Have you a recipe for the energy balls please?
Jennifer
I will put that together into another post Meg and share it on the blog – thanks for commenting