Summer vacation is here, and it’s the perfect time for a road trip! Whether you're heading to the serene hills of Himachal, the sandy beaches of Goa, or the historical treasures of Rajasthan, the journey is as important as the destination. A well-planned road trip not only involves mapping out the route and ensuring your vehicle is in top condition but also packing the right foods to keep everyone energized and satisfied along the way.
Having the right snacks and meals can make a significant difference in your travel experience. It saves time, money, and ensures you have healthy options on hand. Instead of relying on roadside eateries, which might not always offer the best quality or hygienic food, carrying your own food ensures that you and your family stay well-fed with nutritious and tasty options.
Take a look at these some simple and quick foods to carry on a road trip. These options are easy to prepare, travel-friendly, and perfect for munching on the go.
Simple and Quick Foods to Carry on a Road Trip
Sandwiches
Sandwiches are a classic road trip food. They are easy to make, versatile, and convenient to eat on the go. Use whole wheat bread, multigrain bread, or wraps as the base. Fill them with a variety of ingredients like paneer, cucumber, tomato, cheese, lettuce, and chutneys. For non-vegetarians, chicken or egg sandwiches are a great option. Wrap them in foil or parchment paper to keep them fresh and easy to handle.
Parathas
A staple in Indian households, parathas are filling and travel well. Prepare stuffed parathas with aloo, paneer, gobi, or mixed vegetables. Cook them with minimal oil to avoid sogginess. Wrap them in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Pair with pickle or yoghurt for added flavour.
Fruits
Fresh fruits are healthy and refreshing, perfect for a quick snack. Select fruits that are easy to eat and don't require peeling, like apples, bananas, grapes, and berries. For more convenience, pre-cut fruits like watermelon, mango, and papaya and store them in airtight containers. Use cooler bags or ice packs to keep them fresh during the journey.
Dry Snacks
Dry snacks are ideal for munching and have a long shelf life. Pack a variety of nuts, seeds, roasted chana, trail mixes, and namkeens. These are not only tasty but also provide a good energy boost. Store them in ziplock bags or small airtight containers to maintain their crunchiness.
Yoghurt and Smoothies
Dairy products like yoghurt and smoothies are great for a nutritious snack. Carry single-serving packs of flavoured yoghurt or make your own smoothies using fresh fruits, milk or yoghurt, and a bit of honey. Use insulated bottles or cooler bags to keep them chilled.
Homemade Energy Bars
Energy bars are convenient and packed with nutrition. Make energy bars at home using oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and a binder like honey or peanut butter. These bars are perfect for a quick energy boost. Wrap them individually in parchment paper and store in an airtight container.
Vegetable and Fruit Salads
Salads are refreshing and healthy, perfect for a light meal on the road. Prepare vegetable salads with cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and carrots, or fruit salads with a mix of your favourite fruits. Add a dash of lemon juice and some chaat masala for extra flavour.
Pack in airtight containers and keep them in a cooler bag to retain freshness.