Healthy Family Travel Tips #5 – Snack Bags

Snack bags are more than the name implies.  Snack bags offer many things to parents both on land and air trips. 

In the car a snack bin is usually more helpful so it won’t get crushed.  Something that is clear plastic works well so everyone can see what’s in it.  With older kids the bin can simply be handed over when hunger strikes.  With smaller children, it keeps the choices close at hand for parents to make a quick decision.  It also can take away the “But I want…” by limiting the choices to what’s in the bin.

It also allows for better organization.  Many times families through all the food in a cooler or bag in the trunk.  When it’s time to eat on a roadtrip the car usually has to be stopped and many layers of food removed before snacks are found.  The snack bag makes this process so much smoother with a single item to find (usually easily found in the footwell of the rear seats).  A sturdy bin will also help prevent critters from invading the stash.

Lastly, packing the bin can be a family affair.  Everyone can have input and there is usually a finite amount of space, so it promotes cooperation and compromise, two ingredients that help a family trip run well.  And picking out healthy snacks before a trip helps keeps your family healthy during the trip.

So whether it’s a bin, a bag or a large duffle full of snacks, take some time before your next trip to make sure your family has healthy snacks ready to be devoured!