Summer means road trips to the cottage, the lake, and other vacation destinations. Don't let road-trip weight-loss anxiety get in the way of your summer fun. Instead, read our tips for the best road trip snacks suited for any kind of travel. Whether you're traveling alone, with your significant other, or the kids, these snack ideas are designed for easy access, and most importantly, to steer you away from the fast food stops along the road.
If you're driving alone
Driving alone can be a cathartic experience, especially with the windows rolled down, and the wind blowing through your hair to the sounds of your favourite tunes. Don't let a grumbling stomach pull you from your happy place. Instead, come prepared with these easily accessible snacks that don't require help from someone in the passenger seat.
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Summer berries are in abundance! Throw together blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, or any mix of berries in a plastic container. This snack can get messy, so unless you've got a bunch of napkins tucked away in your glove compartment, you should leave this snack for the rest stop.
- Grape tomatoes. These miniature tomatoes, when ripe, make a delicious snack. This is a no-mess, grab-and-go snack. You're sure to be reaching your hand in the bag over and over.
If you're with that special someone
Sometimes it can be hard when you're traveling with your significant other, and they are looking forward to all the high fat foods they are going to indulge in on the road. Fear not! As your loved one dives into a bag of ketchup chips, you are armed with a bag of popcorn sprinkled with Parmesan cheese or chili pepper flakes. When you inevitably end up at the drive-thru window, you can either sink your teeth into a delicious sandwich you made, or make a smart choice from the menu. Whatever you do, remember to spin the situation positively, and when it's time for you to eat your healthy snacks, the extra pair of hands will help you open your yogourt, or pull the plastic off your string cheese.
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Popcorn. Sprinkle it with low fat Parmesan cheese, cinnamon, hot chili peppers, or any other light topping alternative.
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Yogourt with nuts. Open the lid of your yogourt and toss in some nuts for a little extra crunch. Be sure to pull over at a rest stop before you prepare this one.
- Cheese and fruit. Pair an apple, or grapes with your favourite low fat cheese, and portion them out in plastic bags for easy access. You can use string cheese and snack on it by itself too!
If you're with the family
You can prepare these snacks in bulk to pass around the car and share with the whole family. These foods are sure to keep the kids happy so they don't start asking to visit the nearest fast food drive-thru window.
- Core an apple and cut it into pieces. Throw it in a plastic container. Bring along a jar of peanut butter, and a plastic knife. If you're not driving, smother apple pieces with peanut butter and indulge! This is one the whole family can enjoy.
- Banana-Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins. These bite-size treats will curb your cravings throughout the journey.
If you're with a stranger
If you're grabbing a ride with a friend of a friend, or giving someone you don't know very well a lift to your destination, you might consider bringing along snacks that won't create crumbs (if it's the other person's car,) and that you can easily share with them as a nice gesture (don't forget to pack a little extra!) If you're worried the other person is going to stop at fast food restaurants along the way, you can pack yourself some portable main meals too. Also, packing foods with more neutral ingredients will minimize the possibility of strong smells filling up the car.
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Meringue cookies: These light cookies made from egg whites and sugar make a delicious low SmartPoints sweet craving satisfier. Y
- Sandwiches. Try one of the delicious sandwiches you can find in our recipe database, like this Turkey Reuben.