How Fit n Busy Family Stays Healthy on the Road

So I've been feverishly packing for the last 2 days, getting us all packed and ready for our 8 day long trip for Spring Break.  It's not an easy task to get 4 kids packed, laundry done, and snacks/meals planned.  We are leaving in the morning for St Louis, MO.  We will be there for 4 days, then we're driving to Branson, MO for 4 days!  Going on a road trip can be very trying on not only your sanity, but also your health.  It is MUCH easier to go through the drive-through or stop at the gas station and get candy, snacks, and soda.  But, I have been working very hard and planning ahead to ensure that it doesn't happen that way.  Yes, there are times that we get fast food or stop and get snacks at the gas station, that's part of the fun of a road trip after all!  But, I want to minimize that as much as possible.  Here are some of my tips for staying healthy on the road and during travel:

1.  Get a cooler for the car and pack it with some healthy snacks & drinks.



The blue & yellow one has several compartments and it's insulated.  It is on loaner from my mom and it is from Target.  I fill it with some of my ice packs to keep it cool.  On the left, is a smaller, personal size.  I have filled it with drinks when we go to the zoo or theme park.  Here are some of the things I will have in my coolers:

I will have these mini cucumbers washed & ready come tomorrow morning.  My kiddos like these and they're easy to eat in the car or on the go. 

2.  Make your own "dry" snacks, such as:

• Protein Bars

 These are great to throw in your bag if you have a long day planned at the theme park or a long drive.  Here is the recipe. 

• Trail mix.

 You know what's great about making your own trail mix?  You can literally put whatever you want in there!  In mine, I put dry roasted unsalted peanuts, dry roasted unsalted almonds, mini pretzels, banana chips, raisins, flax oat chips, and cinnamon hearts (kashi cereal).  Oh and the kids highly approve! 

3.  Try to find lodging that has a kitchen & kitchen essentials.  Or, most hotels will get you a mini fridge upon request.  This saved a ton of money last summer when we took out family trip to San Antonio.  We bought cereal, milk, turkey, cheese, bread and creamer.  I think we ate breakfast once outside of our room and many days, we had turkey & cheese sandwiches for lunch! 

When we go to Branson, we will have a full kitchen, equipped with all the necessities!  I called today and they do have blenders in the room, so guess what?  I think I'm going to be making some green monsters while we're there as a quick breakfast on the go! 

4.  If staying at lodging that has a kitchen, plan your meals!  I already have meals planned out for while we're in Branson: 

• Clean enchiladas, spaghetti pie, and black bean burgers.  SUPER easy dinners, so much healthier and cheaper than eating out with a family of 6! 

Find out what grocery store is nearby your lodging and plan a trip there as soon as you arrive in town.  I already have my shopping list put together so that it will be a quick trip in & out.  

5.  Bring some of your staple items from home to make up a quick meal while you're on vacation. Here is some of the stuff I have packed:

• Whole wheat pancake mix

•  Bread, tortillas, pitas, peanut butter, agave

• Box cereals, such as Mom's Best Naturals, Cheerios, and Kix

 6.  If you eat out at a restaurant, here are a couple tips to making more healthy choices:

• Have your kids share a kids meal.  We all know how big the portions can be.
• Try and share a meal with your spouse, if you can come to an agreement on what to get.  Not only will these first 2 things save you a lot of money, but it will force you to eat a more normal size portion.  
• Sub that side of french fries with a side salad, soup, fruit cup, or steamed veggies
• EVERYONE DRINKS WATER!!  I know how easy it is to order a soda or tea, but any choice here other than water is going to have tons of added sugar and empty calories.  If you need a pick-me-up, opt for hot tea or coffee, if available.  Oh and just a side note, I used to work in the restaurant business and this is where many restaurants make their money.  $2-$3 for a cup of soda???  That's highway robbery!!
• Stay away from any of these type of dishes:  fried, cheesy, buttery, creamy, or greasy
• Stick with grilled or baked lean meats, steamed veggies (no creamy or cheesy topping), soups, and salads (dressing on the side, hold the cheese and croutons).  Even sandwiches can be your worst choices, they're grilled in butter with tons of cheese most of the time.  I would stay away from them most of the time too.  
• No dessert at dinner.  Who's hungry for dessert anyway after all that?  If you still want something sweet, then opt for some frozen yogurt, light on the toppings, if any at all.  Or, stick with fruit toppings only.  You are on vacation after all!  You should be able to splurge every once in a while without feeling guilty!

7.  Get out & get active with your family.  This is a no-brainer for our family.  We are up and out and all around when we are on vacation.  Pack your tennis shoes and active wear so that you can go on a family hike or bike ride.  Many hotels or local shops have bike rentals available.  

Well I hope some of this helps!  With a little planning, you can stay healthy even when traveling.  Thanks for reading!!