Healthy holiday travel: How to keep kids’ nutrition high while on the go

Holiday season is around the corner, and families everywhere are gearing up for exciting vacations and trips. While travel brings joy and adventure, it can also pose challenges, especially when it comes to maintaining healthy eating habits for kids on-the-go. But fear not, with a little planning and some expert advice, you can ensure that your children stay nourished and energised throughout your holiday adventures.

Incorporate healthy eating tips for kids during travel

Travelling with kids often means frequent stops for snacks and meals, which can sometimes lead to less-than-ideal food choices. Here are some tips to help you keep your little ones eating healthy while on the move:

• Pack smart: Before you embark on your journey, pack a variety of nutritious snacks such as fresh fruit, whole grain crackers, and vegetable sticks. Avoid sugary and processed snacks that can leave your kids feeling sluggish.

• Hydrate often: Make sure your kids stay hydrated throughout the journey by packing plenty of water bottles. Limit sugary drinks and opt for water or diluted fruit juice instead.

• Choose wisely: When dining out or grabbing food on-the-go, opt for healthier options like salads, grilled chicken wraps, or fruit smoothies. Look for restaurants that offer kid-friendly healthy choices on their menu.

• Mindful eating: Encourage your children to eat mindfully, paying attention to their hunger and fullness cues. Limit distractions like screens during meal times to help them focus on their food.

Pack vitamins for deliciously convenient nutrition

In addition to healthy eating, supplementing with vitamins can ensure that your kids are getting all the nutrients they need, especially when travelling. Nutriburst, in collaboration with Universal's Minions and inspired by Despicable Me 4, offers a range of convenient and delicious vitamin gummies designed specifically for children aged 4 and above:

• Mighty Bones - Calcium & Vitamin D3: Boosted with Calcium and Vitamin D to support normal growth and bone development. These easy, chewable gummies come in a natural strawberry flavour, making them a tasty addition to your child's daily routine. Shop now

• Defence Dynamo - Immunity Support: Packed with Vitamin D3 for immunity support and Vitamin C to help reduce tiredness and fatigue. These chewable gummies have a delicious natural blueberry flavour that kids will love. Shop now

• Mega Multi - Multivitamin: Formulated with 13 essential nutrients to support your child's general health and well-being. Boosted with Vitamin D for bone development and growth, Vitamin C for energy metabolism, Iron for cognitive development, and Iodine for normal childhood growth. These chewable gummies come in a delightful natural orange flavour. Shop now

These Minion-inspired gummies make taking vitamins a fun and enjoyable experience for kids, ensuring they get the essential nutrients they need even during busy holiday travels.

Bring family-friendly travel snacks 

Don’t let hunger strike while on the go. Here are some nutrient-packed snack ideas that are perfect for travelling:

• Trail mix: Combine nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for a portable and energy-boosting snack.
• Homemade granola bars: Make your own granola bars using oats, nuts, seeds, and honey for a healthy and satisfying treat.
• Greek yoghurt cups: Pick up individual servings of Greek yoghurt topped with fresh berries for a protein-rich snack.

Plan your nutrition based on your travel 

While the general tips provided earlier are applicable to various travel situations, here are some specific suggestions tailored to different types of holiday travel:

Road trips

• Pack a cooler with healthy snacks such as sliced vegetables, hummus, yoghurt tubes, and cheese sticks to keep handy during rest stops.
• Plan ahead and research healthy dining options along your route. Look for restaurants that offer salads, grilled options, and whole grain sides.
• Take breaks for physical activity to stretch your legs and keep everyone active. Look for parks or playgrounds along the way where children can burn off energy.

Air travel

• Bring refillable water bottles to stay hydrated during flights. Remember to fill them up after passing through security.
• Pack nutrient-dense snacks like nuts, dried fruit, and granola bars in your carry-on bag to avoid relying on expensive and often unhealthy airport food.
• Encourage children to walk around the cabin periodically to prevent stiffness and promote circulation during long flights.

Camping trips

• Plan and prepare meals ahead of time to ensure you have nutritious options available. Consider prepping foil packet meals or one-pot dishes that can be easily cooked over a campfire or portable stove.
• Pack lightweight, non-perishable snacks such as trail mix, whole grain crackers, and jerky for hiking and outdoor activities.
• Embrace nature by incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables into your camping meals. Look for local farmers' markets or roadside stands to stock up on seasonal produce.

Cruise vacations

• Take advantage of onboard dining options by choosing dishes that include lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
• Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid overindulging in buffet-style dining. Encourage children to fill their plates with a balance of different food groups.
• Participate in onboard activities like swimming, dancing, or exploring ports of call to stay active and incorporate exercise throughout the day.

By considering these additional tips for different travel scenarios, you can ensure that your family stays healthy and nourished no matter where your holiday adventures take you. Safe travels.