I rarely enjoy fast food. Sure, it is fast, but it doesn't usually taste that good and it is often super-expensive. Just the other day, I picked up some breakfast at McDonalds while traveling. Even without buying drinks, and only having one adult and three children, I still spent nearly $20. And people were still hungry afterwards.
Later in the day, we were able to stop and make a quick run through a grocery store to pick up lunch. What a difference! We were able to choose fresh fruits and veggies, healthy drinks, and better snacks for just about the same price. We all ate a lot and had leftovers for later in the day.
I still struggle with ideas for road food, but we've found the following things work well. Granted, they aren't always the cheapest choices in the grocery store, but they are so much better than the drive-thru.
- apple slices (add caramel dip if you want to splurge)
- carrot sticks and dip or even get a small veggie tray
- drinkable yogurt (less messy than regular yogurt)
- chicken salad or tuna salad from the deli
- hot soup or chili
- pre-made salads, or the salad bar
- sub sandwiches or party sandwiches
- rotisserie chicken, if you don't mind getting messy
- deli meats and cheeses on rolls or bread
- small cheese (string cheese, BabyBel or individual squares) and crackers
- individual hummus or peanut butter containers
- granola bars, cereal bars and oatmeal bars
- clementines or oranges
- nuts, especially in the little packages
- as much as I hate to say this, Lunchables or similar products can work in a pinch
Sure, this is going to cost more than the Dollar Menu, but it is tastier, healthier, and you won't be hungry again in an hour. What foods do you like to eat on the road?
