Gas prices have put a crimp in American lifestyles. This summer, you may find that you're taking several day trips, instead of a large family travel vacation.

If that's the case, somebody has to be in charge of food for the trip, and it might as well be you. Plan on stopping out for meals, maybe, but also, consider bringing along snacks and treats to help those miles pass faster.

The following are some suggestions. Pick one or two—not all of them—because after all, the goal is NOT to be stuffing your face every moment of the trip!

Travel Snack Tips

• Give each family member an insulated lunch bag so they can be in charge of their snacks.
• Pack whole-wheat and whole-grain breads, rolls and crackers, easy-to-eat fruits, peeled and prepped carrots, celery, grape tomatoes, broccoli florets.
• Include two to three servings of dairy: low-fat or fat-free milk and yogurt and cheese with no more than 5 grams of fat per ounce.
• In plastic bags, pack nuts, seeds, dried fruit and whole-wheat crackers.
• Shop for the newest individual snacks. Look for peeled minicarrots and ranch dip, unsweetened applesauce and the 100-calorie packages of snacks, which help maintain portion sizes.
• Personalize packs with fun, age-appropriate crafts: coloring books, crayons, storybook, flash cards, puzzles and stickers.
• And be sure to keep a few essentials in the car, such as a first-aid kit, trash bags and paper towels. Happy traveling!

Published 06/06/08