Snacks Should Be Nutritious For Kids Even When Traveling

Other than the usual carrot sticks and apple slices, what kinds of convenient and wholesome snacks should you take for children on a long car trip?

Treat nutritious snacking like a mini-meal, says Karen Gale Chew, registered dietitian at Mercy General Hospital in Sacramento, Calif. A few substantial balanced snacks may be more satisfying than constantly nibbling, she says.

Here are some nutritious snacks to pack in your travel cooler: fresh vegetables and fresh or dried fruits; low-fat, whole-grain crackers, pretzels, reduced-fat cookies or a box of low-sugar dry cereal; and nuts such as peanuts, or pumpkin or sunflower seeds. For protein, pick up low-fat packaged string cheese or small cartons of yogurt. For beverages, pack low-sugar juices, ice tea and low-fat milk.