When you are traveling by car, do you plan your snacks and meals ahead of time or purchase along the way? I used to purchase fast food and unhealthy snacks along the way, however, in the midst of this pandemic and my desire to keep my weight in check, I began planning snacks and meals for the road. This week, I share tips I use to keep road trip meal budgets under control. The distance of your trip will determine if you’re packing snacks, meals, or both.

1. If your trip is under three hours, I encourage you to pack healthier snacks like fresh fruits and veggies, individual bags of chips or pretzels, trail mix or cereal bars, and apple sauce or fruit cups.

2. If your trip is three to six hours, I encourage you to pack one snack and one meal. The meal can be something as light as a sandwich made with cold cuts or peanut butter and jelly. If you prefer something heartier, I would suggest an entree plus one or two sides which can be heated in a gas station microwave.

3. If your trip is longer than eight hours, I encourage you to pack two snacks, one meal from home and buy food for dinner. Most rest stops have very nice picnic areas, so make time to stop along the way and enjoy your meal outside. Create a dinner budget and stick to the amount allocated. Most fast food and sit down chains offer reasonably priced dinner menus.

4. Drinks on the road are EXPENSIVE! If you drink coffee or tea, prior to your trip, purchase a thermal canister that keeps the temperature of the liquid inside for 24 hours. Bring a case of water, soda and juice boxes.