Travel may great for the soul but when you have children coming along, they will not only want food for the soul but food period! A further problem is that kids are picky eaters and what you have available for dining options on the road or when you get there, is not necessarily what the kids will eat.

Follow these tips and hints so you can enjoy the food on the way and at your destination, without junior squawking about how the food isn’t the same as back home.

Pre-Departure
Research the food at your destination and introduce the foods you are likely to encounter to the children back at home. Junior is more likely to enjoy a real enchilada if you made him some at home, instead of waiting until he is in a completely strange environment and has it placed on the plate in front of him.

On the road or on any lengthy journey, plan for breaks around when your kids are going to be hungry, so they feel like they want to eat rather than forcing them too. If you are planning any special dining events, you should ensure you do your research before you arrive – you may be looking forward to that great epicurean delight only to arrive at the restaurant and find they don’t like kids or there is no children’s menu.

Packing Essentials
Healthy snacks for everyone are vital, but if you have a taste of home too, this will help your children to adapt to the new food they are being introduced to. Individually wrapped foods, snacks, cereals and juices are ideal and make sure you have a good stock of wet wipes and Ziploc bags to deal with spills and leftovers.

One tip is with respect to baby formula – make sure you bring enough for your entire trip until you get back home. Changing a baby formula is not a good idea for a baby, especially with the associated stress of travel and new surroundings.

Card games or other easy to play games will help pass the time on the longer trips. These can help facilitate family interaction as opposed to using a portable DVD player or something similar.

For On the Road
Always have water with you – this is essential. Try to keep to your eating schedule, even if you are traveling by bus, train or plane – this is very important for children. Use sandwiches and snacks to keep them going until a proper meal is available.

It\’s always a good idea to plan ahead & research where the best bathroom breaks will be. These can be state run rest stops or road side centers, or your favorite fast food restaurants.

Upon Arrival
Instead of hotel catering, try self-catering as this gives you more control over meal times and variety. Avoid uncooked foods where possible as this will reduce the risk of catchy nasty bugs due to hygiene issues. Drink bottled water and always peel fruit and vegetables and make sure your children understand the importance of always washing their hands.

Author Bio: Ronald Harry is a freelance writer, who has a vast knowledge of many topics including custom concession trailers and mobile kitchens.

Category: Travel
Keywords: travel, food, vacation, kids