travel food hacks

33 Easy Travel Snacks for your Airplane Carry-On Bag

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When I travel, the foodie in me always has to bring snacks for the trip. I always plan for easy travel snacks for a few reasons. For starters I’m not always sure what terminal I’ll be in at the airport so the food choices might get dicey once I get past security. Next, depending on the airline I’m flying there might not be great options once I board the plane (we’ve all been there). Lastly, I like to be prepared when I’m traveling even when I arrive at my final destination to have quick portable fuel sources on hand for when *hangry* hits in the form of easy travel snacks.

In this blog post I’ve compiled all of my favorite easy travel snacks into one ultimate packing list for your carry-on bag and I’ll walk you through my process for what to consider when selecting the best snacks to bring on a plane.

How to Pack Easy Travel Snacks for your Carry-On Bag

Depending on the length of my trip I usually bring a variety of snacks intended to carry-on a plane. I consider these easy to pack snacks, snacks that travel well, and also snacks that fall into the healthy(ish) convenience food category following these guidelines: 

• Food I can’t find at my final travel destination

Drink Mixers

• Airport Snacks (snacks to bring on a plane and at the airport terminal)
• Emergency snacks (for when I’m super hungry)
• Perishables
• Non-Perishables
• Sweet Treats/Comfort Items

These categories might look a little different for you but it helps to determine what you might need at least a week before your trip so that you have time to shop around. This will also help to keep your trip planning a little less stressful so that you can spend your time concentrating on the last minute things you need to do before you go out of town.

To verify what easy travel snacks you can and cannot carry on flights check out TSA’s security guidelines and the rules of each country for International flights. Keep in mind that TSA considers foods like yogurts and cooked oatmeal as “gels” and they will be confiscated at security (I learned this the hard way). For any other liquids review the guidelines but generally speaking most liquids and gels are allowed if they are less than 3.4oz/100 ml.

How to Transport your Easy Travel Snacks

My last consideration for packing easy travel snacks are the containers the food will travel in. For the most part I lean towards things that are easy to dispose of like foil, wax paper, plastic baggies, and repurposed takeout containers. However, in consideration of the environment I often try to lean to more sustainable options if I can, such as: silicon bags, collapsible cups, collapsible bowls, insulated containers, and beeswax paper. 

The con to these items is you will have to carry them in your luggage throughout your trip. But the pro of these items is being environmentally responsible, having a vessel you can reuse throughout your trip for something else, and some of these containers can keep your snacks from getting crushed, hot, or cold (triple bonus). 

I like Stasher Bags and Zip Top Bags for a reusable bag option. Both of these brands are super durable, always hold up really well for traveling, and are great to repurpose for other easy travel snacks on a trip. 

Silicone Bags

Stasher Bags

These are great reusable bags for packing your travel snacks on the go.

Zip Top Bags

We love these bags for items that can’t lay flat! The structure of the bag makes it easy to carry your snacks and keep them from being crushed in your carry-on luggage.

Collapsible bowls have also been one of my favorites for eating things like oatmeal on the go and pre-made meals I might travel with (in an effort to clean out my fridge before I head out of town). I also like these collapsible cups from Stojo to make drinks portable and they don’t take up much room. If you have space for something bigger I like using the Snack Swell thermos containers for some travel foods on my trips since its a small insulated container to keep food hot or cold.

Bowls and Cups

Stojo Collapsible Bowl

We are loving the STOJO Collapsible Bowl. This holds 36oz and is a reusable silicone bowl for hot and cold food which makes it perfect for travel, meal prep, to-go Lunch, camping, and hiking. This is also microwave & dishwasher safe.

S’well S’nack Food Container

We love the S’well S’nack Stainless Steel Food Container. It’s 24 ounces and great for holding food you are traveling with that you want to keep hot or cold. This will keep your food for 8 Hours Hot for 6 Hours Cold.

This is a smaller version of the bigger S’nack by S’well Food Container. Its 10oz and has Double-Layered Insulated walls to keep food and drinks cold for 10 hours and hot for 4 hours!

Stojo Collapsible Travel Cup

This collapsible travel cup comes with a straw and holds 16oz of liquid. Its reusable and pocket size for hot and cold drinks making it perfect for travel, camping, and hiking. Like the other Stojo products its microwave and dishwasher safe.

If you are traveling with any items that must stay at a colder temperature these PackIt Freezable pouches are a great option to transport your food. The PackIt Freezable pouch has groundbreaking cooling technology that includes freezable gel that is permanently built into the bag so that you don’t need to deal with separate ice packs.

To start collapse the bag flat and freeze in the freezer overnight until you are ready to use it. You can add any of the easy travel snacks that are perishable items in this post to store in this bag. You can also keep this item throughout your trip for other easy to pack snacks.

PackIt Freezable Pouch

This is our favorite travel product for traveling with items that are perishable and need to remain cold like yogurt and cheese. Simply pop the pouch in the freezer the night before your trip and it will keep your perishable snacks at the correct temperature for a few hours. This collapsible and folds up and comes in many colors!

My last favorite sustainable travel item is reusable wax paper. I like using the Bee’s Wrap brand. It takes a bit to get used to if you normally use regular wax paper. If you have a few baked goods, sandwiches etc. to carry while traveling it comes in handy to reuse a few times and store it completely flat in your carry on bag.

Bee’s Wrap

This Bee’s Wrap is an assorted 3 Pack great sustainable option. It’s plastic and silicone free reusable beeswax in 3 sizes great for traveling with sandwhiches.

Freezable Pouch

Freezable pouch

Order of Operations For Your Easy Travel Snacks

If you are planning to take some snacks to the airport for future travel plans my suggested cheat sheet of how to go about eating your easy travel snacks includes a simple order of consumption:

• Eat your perishable items first (for obvious reasons)
• Pack napkins and/or wet wipes (these are not always available as you are on the go)
• If you are bringing whole fruit wash these items before you get to the airport and use your napkin or paper towel as the vessel to carry the item (it also doubles as a napkin as you eat your fruit)
• Pack some travel utensils (for any snacks that require some deep diving or for complete meals)

Travel utensil set

Portable utensil set

Bamboo utensil set

My favorite snacks to bring on a plane.

Below is an easy travel snack list I’ve compiled of my favorite airport (and TSA) friendly snacks. I’ve grouped the items into perishable vs. non-perishable categories since I often will travel with a few perishable items that I strategize to eat first and then work my way through the rest of my snack stash either on the trip or eat other items during a longer flight to tide me over until I reach my destination. 

Perishable Easy Travel Snacks

For perishable easy travel snacks I always tend to pack food that can last a while at room temperature. Regardless of the length of your flight you’ll want items that won’t go bad in case it takes a while to get through security or to the airport (we’ve all been there!). Or even worse if your flight is delayed (done that!). On my list I usually include:

Cured Meats and Deli Meats

This includes salami, pastrami, pepperoni, ham, and turkey. These are great options because they can travel well at room temperature for short periods of time.

I think everyone loves cheese (even us lactose intolerant folks) and it travels well for short periods of time at room temperature. Some of my favorite cheese options are the Babybel Gouda Semisoft Cheeses. I like these because they have their own carrying case with the wax they are packaged in which qualifies the product as easy travel snack in my book.

My next favorite is Trader Joe’s Tapas cheese (it’s amazing! Grab it if you have a TJs near you). This includes several slices of three types of cheese including: Iberico, Cabra Al Vino (a.k.a. “ Drunken Goat “), and Manchengo. I really enjoy how the flavors in this set are so different and it feels very fancy while you are enjoying them.

Boiled Eggs

Boiled eggs are one of the best snacks for traveling. I typically boil eggs once a week so I’ll grab 2-4 for a flight or whatever is left over in my fridge for the week (this is also a good way to clean out your fridge before you head out of town). You can also purchase eggs that are already boiled from almost any local grocery store for an easy travel snack on an airplane.

Another fun option for hard boiled eggs is from a brand called Perfectly Peckish which sells hard boiled eggs in packs with a fun crunchy dip. Their selection includes:

• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & EVERYTHING Dip
• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & FRIED RICE Dip
• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & RANCHEROS Dip
• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & SALT & PEPITAS Dip
• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & RANCH Dip

Check out their store locator to find a store that sells these near you .

Crackers and/or Bread

I personally can’t have cheese and cured/deli meat without crackers or bread! These are easy to transport and can be stored at various temperatures which make them a great addition to your carry-on bag for an easy snack pairing (and crunch)!

I love fruit for an easy snack that travels well. The fruit that travels the best are apples, bananas, oranges, kiwi, and grapes. I like these fruits because they have their own “skin” which can serve as its own carrying case so that they don’t get squashed (thanks mother nature!).

For oranges you can even pre-slice these and add them to a travel container or baggie to eat right out of the peel (or peel them later). And for kiwi I like slicing these in half and using a spoon to scoop out the insides for easy eating. If you have never tried Golden Kiwi its a real treat (they taste like a cross between a mango and a strawberry)!

Putting It Together

Combining these items also creates a nice balance for traveling to ensure you have enough protein, fat, and carbohydrates for fuel while on the go. You can also pair the meats, cheese, and crackers or bread and make a makeshift sandwich in a pinch (great easy travel snack idea!). You can also grab some pre-made snack boxes for a perishable option to take through security.

Non-Perishable Travel Snacks

My favorite non-perishable easy travel snack list is a bit longer. I group these by foods I might eat on the plane or at my final destination as I get hungry or peckish.

I eat oatmeal almost daily when I’m home for breakfast so it’s an item I always travel with especially internationally since it’s not something that all countries will provide for breakfast. It’s also a really nice snack on a plane since you just need water to make it. You can use one of the collapsible bowls or cups I mentioned above as the vessel to make these in or any disposable cup at the airport. I typically use the McCann Irish Oatmeal brand because it’s very hearty as a travel snack or the Unsweetened Individual Oatmeal packets from Trader Joe’s .

Bringing nuts on a flight can be controversial so be sure to read your airline’s individual rules regarding what is allowed. I like going for the individually portioned nuts that are completely sealed in case I can’t eat them on a particular flight due to restrictions or nut allergies. If that’s the case I can always have them as a snack at my final destination.

My favorite nut options for an easy travel snack include: 

• Macadamia Nuts
• Trail Mix (for something different)

Crunchy Snacks

Personally I’m a big fan of crunchy snacks in general but definitely when I travel. I think it’s nice to have a variety of items on hand. For this category I pack:

I usually air pop popcorn and bring it in my reusable silicon bag for trips. Did you know that you can air pop popcorn in a brown paper bag in the microwave? I also like these individually wrapped White Cheddar Popcorn bags from Smartfood .

Peanut Butter Crackers

I also like bringing Peanut Butter Crackers as easy travel snacks for my final destination. These have saved me many times while traveling to have something to tide me over until my next meal.

There’s something nostalgic about Chex Mix that just makes it a travel staple! I use to have these all the time as a kid on trips. I usually will grab the individual baggies for my carry-on bag.

I also always grab Cheez-Its for a fun crunchy cheesy snack.

Moon Cheese

These are a newer to me product. I saw them once at Starbucks and then purchased them last year from Target and I’m a fan! These are little cheese balls that come in different flavors. If you like cheese and something with a crunch you’ll like these little cheese balls as a snack.

Anytime I think of pretzels I think of that Seinfeld episode “these pretzels are making me thirsty” but they still make for a great easy travel snack!

Veggie Straws

Veggie straws are the perfect easy travel snack to take on the go! They are both crunchy and salty which you is always needed on the road.

Marinated Vegetables

This might be an odder pick but eating vegetables on the go is hard so I love this option. POSHI Vegetable Snacks offers a marinated steamed portable snack option. If you like pickled vegetables you will like these! Plus you can add a little fiber to you day while in transit.

Snack Olives

If you’ve never had olives while on an airplane you are missing out! Something about eating olives at 42,000 feet cruising in the air is a totally different experience. I like buying these Olives to Go from the grocery store and Trader Joe’s also sells individually packed Olive packs which are so yummy. I was inspired to add Olives to my easy travel snack list after having the Mediterranean Travel Snack box on a United Flight which has a great mix of olives, bruschetta, hummus, and chocolate almonds as a great snack mix.

Dried Fruit

Dried fruit is a really fun easy travel snack! My favorite picks are dried apples and mangoes. They make such a sweet treat and they are also crunchy (or chewy).

When traveling with dips always choose brands that are shelf stable so that they can fall into the perishable category. If you go this route you should plan to consume the entire package in your trip since they will need to be refrigerated once opened.

Something Sweet

Honey stinger organic waffles.

Honey Stinger Organic Waffles are sweet yummy waffles that double as a healthy(ish) treat. These pack really easily in your carry-on or a day pack on your trip and make them one the best snacks for traveling.

Brownies & Cookies

Brownies and Cookies fall into a comfort item category for me. It’s nice to always have a sweet treat on hand but also something you are familiar with. I like the Nature’s Bakery brand Brownies and old faithful Nabisco Cookies like Oreos.

Fruit Snacks

Pink panda/snack owl.

I recently discovered a new brand called Pink Panda which offers high fiber fruit snacks. Why high fiber fruit snacks? Because fiber is such a hard micro nutrient to consume when you are traveling and I like that these snacks trade the sugar for fiber when it comes to carbohydrates in the snack. These come in two varieties: Astro Blasters and Treasure Chews. I’ve had both and think they taste yummy (you’d really never know there is no sugar in these)! And it’s only 90 calories for the entire bag.

If you are interested in trying out this new brand use our code “BREADANDBUTTERPANDA10” for 10% off if you order directly on their website . Pink Panda fruit snacks are also available on Amazon below.

Smart Sweets

I’ve been eating SmartSweets for years! They are similar to the Pink Panda brand but I’m not really sure which I like more. These are also high fiber fruit snacks and I really enjoy them for traveling. My favorites to date have been the Sour Blast Buddies and the Peach Rings.

Other Fruit Snacks

As you can tell I really love fruit snacks! My other favorites for travel and just as a general comfort item are Gushers and Fruit by the Foot. I also really like fruit leather and the “That’s It” brand is a great option for something healthy(ish) when it comes to fruit snacking.

Honey Stinger Energy Chews

Honey Stinger Energy Chews is an organic candy that’s great to chew and eat before, during, or after activity (especially when flying if your ears ring at high altitudes). It has multiple carbohydrate sources including glucose, fructose, maltose, sucrose.

I discovered this candy while on vacation in Hawaii. I think the best way to describe these are somewhere between candy and a gummy since they are chewy. I like Mango as my favorite flavor. Amazon offers a variety box if you want to check these out.

Protein Snacks

Protein is always hard for me to get in even when I’m not traveling so I always like to bring some protein snacks with me just in case. These are really great to cure hangry when you need some  stabilizing energy.

Pepperoni Sticks

These are new to me but I started eating Pepperoni sticks last year as a quick snack when I was out doing errands. That makes them perfect for an easy travel snack! The two brands I’ve liked so far are Vermont and Applegate Naturals. To me the flavors of these taste the most neutral for dried meat and come in a casing so it’s easy to eat and move on to the next thing.

Protein Bars

Protein Bars can sometimes leave an aftertaste in my opinion so there are not too many tasty ones that have a balanced calorie to protein ratio. My favorite pick so far as been Barebells Protein Bars which come in a variety of flavors and have 20 grams of protein per bar. I’ve been able to find these on Amazon and at Trader Joe’s so far. If you don’t typically like protein bars give these a try for something a bit different.

Protein Powders

I like to travel with protein powders that are individually wrapped since protein is often difficult to fit in when on the go. Most protein powder servings will have at least 18 grams of protein which is a great boost to hold you over until your next meal.

You can mix your protein powder in with some bottled water at the airport. As a great hack you can also find a bistro, Starbucks, or Dunkin Donuts in the airport and request a milk of your choice in a bigger cup to add your protein powder for an easy travel snack.

Collagen Peptides

I’m also a big fan of collagen peptides! Collagen is not a complete protein but it works well in a pinch to supplement other sources of protein for the day. It’s not completely tasteless but the flavor isn’t too strong. I prefer to dissolve these packets in water or hot coffee while traveling. They come in individual sticks which make them easy to transport. Collagen is also really great for nail and hair growth and has really helped my joints.

Granola and Fruit Bars

Something about granola bars are so nostalgic to me and I love to bring them as an easy travel snack. They travel really well on planes and are also great for in your day bag at your final destination.

I like the Nature Valley, Made Good, and Nature Bakery brands.

Peanut Butter

Again, a controversial pick for travel since usually peanuts are not allowed on all flights but I must have peanut butter with me as a basic comfort food while traveling! If I can’t have these on the plane I just eat them at my final destination. I like the JIF To Go Natural Peanut Butter cups that come individually packaged and will eat them as is, or with something I buy at the airport for some extra fat and protein. My second pick is the Justin’s Honey Peanut Butter brand which comes in a packet making it one of the best snacks for traveling.

Dehydration is real when you travel! I have two easy solutions to stay hydrated when you are on the go. These are not exactly an easy travel snack but they will come in handy while on the go.

I recently started using GoHydrate this spring as a way to stop my leg muscles from cramping and get my water levels up. GoHydrate is a water enhancer which makes it a great option if you are not particularly a fan of drinking water. I started thinking that this would also be excellent for travel due to the individual packets which make them great for on-the-go. GoHydrate provides almost instant hydration by delivering 5 electrolytes immediately to your body. Those electrolytes are: calcium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorous, and potassium.

This water enhancer also provides 40%+ of the recommended daily Vitamin D dose that most of of are deficient in due to sitting inside so often. To use GoHydrate just pour the pre-packaged stick into 20-24oz of water and drink. If you’d like to order GoHydrate I suggest ordering their mixed 10 stick sample box or their 30 stick sample box to see which flavor you like before stocking up on their 30 box sets of one flavor. My favorite flavors so far have been Lemon Citrus , Kiwi Strawberry , and Fruit Punch if you need a flavor recommendation.

True Honey Tea

We found this brand True Honey Tea at a farmers market last year and its been our favorite tea! Based in Virginia these are tea bags that have honey granules already in the tea. We really like the Earl Gray (add some half and half to make a London Fog) and also the Peppermint tea for a really great non perishable travel snack.

My next favorite drink mixer to travel with is from Cusa Tea . This brand was recommended to me by a friend who uses them while hiking. The best part is you don’t have to walk around with a wet tea bag once you prepare your tea. The flavors Cusa Teas has are unreal. I started with their Iced or Hot Variety Pack and the flavors are so delicious, truly premium tea with no sugar or artificial ingredients. I’ve tried this both in iced and hot tea and they work great. You can use these just by ordering hot water while on at the airport, on the plane, or at your final travel destination. 

If iced tea is more your style I’ve used them in even room temperature water (though cold water is better) and they dissolve no problem with no grainy stuff at the bottom. They are not sweetened so if you like sweet tea I suggest adding a sugar packet or something like Truvia to lightly sweeten the drink. My favorite flavors so far have been Blueberry Chrysanthemum and Hibiscus Rose . I recommend starting with the variety pack so that you can figure out which flavor you like before committing to an entire pack.

I typically buy a large water bottle once I get through security to keep with me in the airport and on the plane. If you don’t like buying water I suggest traveling with a stainless steel water bottle that you can fill up at the airport and throughout your trip. Our favorite travel options include Swell , Iron Flask, Yeti, and Stanley water bottles as great options that close.

Travel Water Bottles

S’well Stainless Steel Traveler

This S’well Stainless Steel Traveler is 20 Fl Oz and is Triple-Layered Vacuum-Insulated to keep Coffee, Tea and Drinks Cold for 36 Hours and Hot for 15 Hours.

Stanley IceFlow Tumbler

Stanley IceFlow Stainless Steel Tumbler with Straw is a Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle for Travel, the Office or a road trip. Its a reusable cup with a straw Leakproof Flip. The Stanley IceFlow will keep your drink cold for 12 Hours or Iced for 2 Days. This comes in various colors!

YETI Rambler Bottle

The YETI Rambler Water Bottle holds 26 oz of liquid and is vacuum insulated with a Chug Cap.

Which Easy Travel Snacks Are Your Favorites?

What easy travel snacks do you like to bring on your trips ? Did I miss any easy to pack snacks that you would recommend? Keep these travel snacks in mind for your next trip to beat hangry.

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This post is perfect timing! We’re taking the family to Disney World in two weeks and I have “travel snacks” on my to-do list! I love the high fiber gummy options, my little one struggles while we travel, so these will be perfect! Oh, and I have both the Emerald Nut Packs and the Nature’s Bakery bars as my car snacks, they are perfect, so I never have to hit the drive-thru!

Disney World sounds so fun! Yes, any sort of extra fiber on a trip makes things so much easier for all of us. And in candy form even better. I hope you get to try them 🙂 -Monica

I often bring a small container (2-3 TBSP to 3.3 oz) of reconstituted PBfit (or other powdered peanut butter) with sugar snap peas or carrot sticks for a tasty healthy snack. Also bring small containers of the powdered peanut butter to mix with water later. Frozen grapes and frozen bean/veggie or egg and spinach wraps can be used to keep food cold and are healthy snacks when thawed.

Those are great ideas!

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THE ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP FOOD LIST: 50 Scrumptious Travel Snacks

Post Summary: The definitive road trip food list with 50 snack ideas and meals to keep you happy the entire car ride. Plus, tips for what else to bring and recommendations for the best road trip coolers.

Road trips are the classic adventure that everyone needs to do at least once in their life, whether you’re traveling solo, with your best buds, or packing in the whole family. What’s the secret to a great road trip? Besides having your maps already downloaded to your phone (travel must #1), it’s to have a collection of the best road trip food at your disposal. Being prepared with good travel food will ensure you don’t:

• Kill your travel mates because you’re hangry.
• Get killed by your travel mates because they’re hangry.
• Get lured in by every gasoline stop and somehow end up with bright orange Cheetos and Slim Jims.
• Waste your travel budget dining on Subway and Wendys road trip meals.

After road tripping with a toddler for half a year around the US, we’ve figured out the ultimate road trip food list so we can enjoy the journey together feeling nourished and happy. Our list includes road trip food ideas for adults and kids as well as healthy car snacks.

After the road trip food list, we’ve included non-food items you’ll want to bring and some tips on choosing the best road trip cooler.

Need More Road Trip Tips? Check out our other articles below:

The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 41 Essentials For The Road 160 Fun, Deep, and Sometimes Silly Road Trip Questions 41 Fun and Challenging Road Trip Trivia Questions 17+ Fun Things To Do On A Road Trip How To Survive A Road Trip With A Toddler 40 Must Have Items To Have In Your Camper

*This road trip food list post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you purchase from them. This is at no extra cost to you! We only recommend products and services we genuinely think are helpful.

The Ultimate Road Trip Food List

Healthy snacks for a road trip

We’ll start with healthy snacks for the road. I don’t know about you, but when we go on road trips, we tend to fall back on fast food and junk food. In an effort to have a quasi healthy road trip we make sure to include some healthy options so we can at least feel like we’ve balanced out all our snickers bars and Wendy’s frosties. Here’s our list of the best road trip foods that won’t leave you feeling sluggish at the end of the day. We also added in a few recommendations of some of our favorite brands.

Healthy Snacks For Car Rides 1. Fruit: Bananas, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, grapes, apples, oranges 2. Sliced veggies: carrots, cucumbers, celery, bell peppers, pickles, radishes 3. Cherry tomatoes 4. Olives (buy the pitted kinds) 5. Salsa 6. Deli sandwiches or wraps (already made from home or pre-purchased) 7. A simple charcuterie spread (summer sausage, pepperoni, sliced cheese, dried apricots, olives, crackers, etc.) 8. Popcorn 9. Yellow corn chips, blue corn chips, kale chips 10. Granola Bars and Energy Bars ( Munk Bars are our favorite! ) 11. Dried Fruit 12. Crackers (cheese crackers, saltines, whole wheat crackers, these almond crackers are my favorite!) 13. Pretzels 14. Nuts (almonds, peanuts, cashews, macadamia, walnuts, pecans) 15. Trail mix 16. Tuna (Get the kind that doesn’t need to be refrigerated! It can become a snack on crackers, a sandwich, or added to a salad) 17. Coconut chips ( Dang chips are our favorite. ) 18. Dark chocolate 19. Wasabi peas 20. Fruit leather 21. Whole-grain muffins 22. Bread (pretzel rolls, pita bread) 23. Water (Preferably in a water bottle like a Hydro Flask that will keep your water cold for hours.) *The following are all still healthy snacks for a road trip but will require a cooler. Skip them if you are going sans cooler. Further down, we’ll talk about the best road trip coolers. 23. Hard-boiled eggs 24. Small yogurt containers or drinkable yogurts 25. Humus 26. Guacamole 27. Pasta salad 28. Lentil salad 29. Grocery store salad kits (Can be eaten out of the bag! Just cut the top, pour in the salad dressing, and shake it away. You can also opt to do salads in a jar) 30. Cheese

Essential Road Trip Snacks

These road trip snacks might not be the healthiest, but look…you can’t always be perfect!

Road Trip Snack List 32. Beef Jerky 33. Chips 34. Fun candy (Any kind of candy that brings you joy for your road trip. Gummy bears, reeses pieces, airheads) 35. Ranch dip to go with your healthy veggies 36. Fun drinks (Just make sure the drink is able to be resealed or small enough that you’ll drink it all quickly. My favorite road trip drink is coconut water!) 37. Cookies

Road Trip Snacks For Kids And Toddlers

While we don’t put a distinction between road trip food for the adults and road trip food for kids, here are some fun ideas you can add in addition to the travel food listed above. We found that allowing for leniency with what we let our kid snack on will mean a more fun time for everyone in the car.

Road Trip Snacks For Toddlers and Kids 38. String Cheese or Babybels 39. Peanut butter pretzels 40. Clementines 41. Squeezable applesauce 42. Squeezable nut butters (peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter) 43. Graham crackers 44. Goldfish 45. Fruit snacks 46. Fruit roll ups 47. Peanut butter and jelly sandwich 48. Dry cereal 49. Nutella 50. Snap pea crisps ( I love the wasabi ones from Harvest Snaps . I can only get them online because my grocery store never has them!)

Essential Non Food Items

Now that you’ve got your travel food and made your road trip food list, let’s talk about non food items to have on your road trip packing list. We are both advocates for minimal waste living so we do advise using reusable items like real utensils, glass containers, and reusable straws rather than single-use items. I know it can feel like a nuisance, but once you get used to doing it, it’s easy to integrate it into your habits. We’ve provided links to different products, so you can check out some good options.

-Trash bags (old shopping bags work well) – Stackable glass or plastic containers (While glass may feel like a hazard, I find that most of them are built for endurance and would require some extreme throwing around to actually break. Either way, bringing containers rather than an entire bag of snacks is a great space saver.) -Reusable straws (we like this multipack option here ) -Bento boxes (another option is to make individual bento boxes with everyone’s preferred snacks put in. It’s essentially a healthier version of a Lunchable. Great option if you’re traveling with kids.) Check out these cute bento boxes here . -Utensils -Plates -Paper towels -Hand sanitizer -Ziplock bags -Wipes -Cups if you want to share drinks -Ice packs for the cooler (We prefer to use reusable ice packs like these , but frozen water bottles or ice cubes in a ziplock back will do the job as well.) -Reusable grocery bag to carry your non-perishable stuff -Plastic tub (If you’re going on a long road trip and will have lots of snacks, a good option is to pack all your non-perishable items in a tub like this .) -Cooler

Related : A Comprehensive Guide To the Best Toddler Carriers For Traveling

Best Road Trip Coolers

If you’re going on a long road trip, you’ll definitely want to bring a cooler so you can have more options for the journey. Things to consider when deciding what kind of road trip cooler to bring.

• How much space will you have in your car?
• How many days will you be driving and subsequently how much food will you need?
• Cost of the cooler
• If you road trip or camp a lot and will use a cooler several times a year.

Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler

Our choice for the best road trip cooler is the Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler . It’s a mid-sized cooler that can fit a bottle of wine standing upright. We like its lightweight design and that its compact size can fit on the ground behind the passenger seat.

It has a mid-range price point, so if you are wanting something more economical, you’ll probably want our next pick.

Igloo MaxCold Cooler

If all you need is a no-frills cooler to keep your food cold, the Igloo Maxcold Cooler is a great option. The thin design also makes it a great choice for someone wanting to save room in the car.

Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze

If you like a soft cooler, the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze consistently offers the best bang for your buck.

Yeti Tundra 45

Lastly, if you are wanting a high-end cooler that will be great for camping and can take the wear and tear of consistent use, the Yeti Tundra 45 is your best bet. Yeti is the reigning champion of coolers and you can’t go wrong with anything you purchase from them.

Before you head out on your epic road trip, we suggest packing the night before. Alleviating as much stress as possible on the day you leave, especially when you’re doing a road trip with a toddler , is key to enjoying the road trip journey. We find that the night before, it’s best to:

• Wash, cut, and peel all vegetables and fruit.
• Pack up all non perishable food and supplies.
• Prepare any road trip sandwiches you plan to eat.

Lastly, don’t forget to make sure all your tasty road trip snacks are within reaching distance in the car.

We hope you enjoyed our complete road trip food list. Happy road tripping!

** For more road trip inspiration follow us on Instagram . We travel… a lot.

NEED SOME TRAVEL INSPIRATION? A Complete Guide To A Utah National Parks Road Trip How To Plan A Cross Country Road Trip + Fun Routes To Take 10 National Parks To Visit In The East 50 Family Bucket List Experiences In The US

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Hi, we’re Christina and Brad, Idaho based writers and photographers who live to explore. We did a short stint of traveling full time with our two year old and discovered we're much happier as part time nomads. What does that mean? We travel a lot! And then we go home. We love helping fellow parents and everyday adventurers discover new places and experiences.

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25 Healthy-Eating Travel Hacks That Will Change Your Life

By Leah Ginsberg for Yahoo! Travel

It’s not always easy eating when you’re traveling. But these 25 easy tricks, tips, and hacks will help you eat better and healthier no matter where your journey takes you.

HACKS AT THE HOTEL:

Choose wisely from the free hotel breakfasts.

Staying at a hotel that offers a free breakfast? Usually they’re packed with pastries, bagels, and sugar-covered cereal, all of which you want to avoid. Instead go for fresh fruit (there’s usually at least a banana or an apple), eggs, plain greek yogurt (fruit-flavored has tons of sugar), or whole grain cereal.

Use the coffee maker to cook instant oatmeal.

It is the most important meal of the day, after all. So if you don’t want to leave it to chance, try this handy trick: Pack some instant oatmeal packets and use the coffee maker in the room to heat water to prepare it. You can also bring nuts and dried fruit to mix in.

Related:  22 Things I Learned at the Biggest Loser Resort

Ask for a mini-fridge and make your own breakfast.

Most hotels will accommodate. Then you can buy some fresh fruit, nuts, and something like Greek yogurt and plan to eat breakfast in your room so you know you have one good healthy meal under your belt for the day.

Put plastic wrap on the stems of your bananas.

Want to leave stash of bananas in your hotel room to eat for breakfast or take as a snack? Carefully break them apart and wrap the individual stems of each banana in plastic wrap. It can  help them last  up to five days longer. (It hinders the release of ethylene gas from the stem, which is what promotes ripening and creates the brow color).

Buy a shaker bottle for shakes on the go.

A protein shake can be a great choice for breakfast on the go. And you don’t need a blender. Just add a packet of powdered shake and some almond milk or even water to your  shaker bottle , close it up tight and shake your little hear out. Another trick? Add some powdered peanut butter, which is  made to be mixed  with water or added to smoothies directly. It gives great flavor but only has 45 calories (a regular serving of peanut butter has more like 200).

TRAVEL-SNACK HACKS:

BYOP — bring your own protein — in the form of jerky.

Take a cue from gas station staple Slim Jims and pack beef, turkey, or salmon jerky —  just make sure to pick a nitrate- and chemical-free brand (like  Krave ). Eating protein is one of the  best things  you can do to lose weight and stay fit, and jerky is so travel friendly. There are also  meat bars  if you prefer that.

BYOG — bring your own greens, in the form of real veggie snacks.

You don’t exactly think of veggies as road food, but they can be. Throw a few bags of things like  seaweed chips ,  Trader Joe’s Crispy Crunchy Broccoli Florets  (lightly fried but still low-fat), or  Snapea Crips  into your carry-on. Eat them with a couple of pieces of beef jerky and it’s the perfect on-the-go snack.

Know which bars are the healthiest.

There’s nothing quite as convenient as a protein or nut and fruit bar for fast snacking, but these babies are not all created equal. Many are packed with chemical and/or sugar you just don’t need. Three you can feel good about eating are Quest Bars, Kind bars (the varieties without added sugar), and Lara bars. (It’s a good idea to eat the largely fruit-based Lara bars with a few nuts to get some protein.)

Carry flavored stevia for your coffee.

The chemical-laden sweeteners popular in the U.S. are not good for you, and because of that, if you travel abroad you may be hard pressed to find anything but sugar in certain countries. Instead, travel-sized bottles of  flavored stevia  (an all-natural plant extract) and some low- or non-fat powered milk. They can turn bad road coffee into a vanilla latte-inspired treat.

Buy squeeze chia.

Yes, it’s a thing, it’s portable, and it’s  packed with healthy omega 3’s . Just don’t overdo it; too much chia can, er, back you up.

Use coconut oil packets in place of butter.

Not only is coconut oil (which is solid when cool) a healthy alternative to butter on your toast (studies show the oil helps promotes weight loss), but you can also use it as a handy-dandy, delicious-smelling moisturizer, too. Who doesn’t love a multi-use product when traveling? Just makes sure you buy a brand that is safe to eat and that comes  individual packets  for easy transport.

HACKS FOR EATING OUT:

Always start with a salad, dressing on the side.

Even if all you do differently is start with a salad (very lightly dressed with something healthy like a little olive oil and vinegar), it will help fill you up, so you’ll eat less of other things that might not be as good for you. One caveat: If you’re traveling in a foreign country where the water isn’t fit to drink, skip salad and veggies like lettuce or tomato where you eat the skin. Cooked veggies and peeled veggies are safer.

Order vegetarian — then add meat, poultry, or fish.

When trying to eat healthy, you want to load up on as many veggies as you can. An easy trick to do that when you’re eating out a lot on the road is to order a vegetarian dish and ask them to add a protein, like chicken. Or if you’re eating something like Chinese, ask for double broccoli or order a side of steamed broccoli and mix it into your dish. Broccoli takes up a lot of space leaving less room in your belly for the unhealthy stuff.

Order an appetizer for dinner or split a main.

Appetizers are usually closer to recommended serving sizes and main courses are usually enough food for two, especially in the U.S. So even if you eat something not totally healthy, you’ll eat less. Plus, it can save you money. Throw in a side salad or a broth-based soup if you think you’ll still be hungry.

Eat the protein first.

Protein fills you up  and satiates you, which can help you eat less. So start with your meat, chicken, or fish, then eat your veggies, then if you’re still actually hungry, move on to complex carbs. It’s good way to cut back on starchy foods like potatoes or bread.

Blot the oil off pizza.

Pizza can be an easy and not completely unhealthy choice on the road (especially if you top it with veggies). Just blot the excess oil off your slice. It can save up to 50 calories, according to  Cosmopolitan.com .

Use your hand as a guide for portion sizes.

If you’re trying to watch your portion sizes (which is key to losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight), you can use your hands as a guide: Two cupped hands equal 1 ounce (of dry snacks like pretzels or crackers); one cupped hand holds a half cup (of foods like rice or ice cream); a fist is the size of one cup (of chopped veggies, berries or cereal, for example); from the middle joint to the top of your thumb is equivalent to one teaspoon (for things like salad dressing, peanut butter, and mayo); from the bottom joint to the top of your thumb estimates 1 to 2 tablespoons; the palm is about the size of 3 to 4 ounces (of meat, fish, or poultry).

TSA-FRIENDLY SNACK HACKS:

Pack food in a plastic baggies if you’re flying.

Just no aluminum foil if you’re flying. It could set off scanner when going through security and then they will likely want to search your bag and you’ll have to unwrap your food.

Use TSA-friendly-sized spreads.

If you bring spreads like hummus or natural peanut butter, make sure they’re 3.4 ounces or less. Justin’s makes individual almond butter and peanut butter squeeze packets that are 1.15 ounces.

Bring an empty water bottle.

It will make it through security and then you can filler up at a water fountain in the airport. Just don’t fill it up on the plane unless you can see that the water is coming from other bottled water.  Tap water on planes  (whether from the bathroom or the galley) is a no no.

Related:  10 Things You Should Never Touch on Planes

HACKS FOR GAS STATION OR CONVENIENCE STORE FOOD:

Use food math to compare picks at the convenience store.

Which bar is better? Which snack makes more sense? Basically, when trying to find the best product to buy and eat in a pinch, you can calculate which one has the best balance of protein and “effective carbs.” You do this by looking at the carbs, fiber, and protein. Here’s the formula: Take the total grams of carbs and subtract the grams of fiber and protein. The resulting number is the “effective carbs,” which you’d ideally like to keep below 10.

Customize pre-packaged trail mix.

Trail mix can be an easy snack to buy on the road, but when it comes to eating healthy, there’s usually too much dried fruit and/or chocolate (which means lots of sugar). We suggest tweaking the ratio by buying a bag of trail mix and also a bag of nuts. Add the nuts to the trail mix to correct the protein and good fat to sugar ratio.

Choose dark chocolate over milk chocolate.

Though neither one is great in large quantities, the dark chocolate choice will most likely have a bit  less sugar . Make it even better by choosing one with nuts for some added protein.

APPS THAT HELP HACK:

Use technology to help you find healthy places to eat, wherever you are.

Three to try:  Food Trippin  “locates the closest eateries, juice joints, farmers’ markets, microbreweries, and more,” according to iTunes.  Eat Out Well  provides nutrition information for menu item in restaurants around your location.  Can I Eat This?  is from the Center for Disease Control and helps prevent travelers’ diarrhea based on where you are and what you’re thinking about eating or drinking.

BONUS: EXERCISE HACKS

Learn some moves you can do anywhere, not equipment required.

There are actually tons of exercises you can do in your hotel room or even in the park or on the beach. The most you might need is towel on the floor or table, bench, or window sill for balance. Think:  planks ,  lunges ,  squats, and  push-ups  for strength-building and  jumping jacks  and  burpees  for cardio.

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41 No-Cook Meals for Your Next Travel Adventure

We’ve challenged ourselves to come up with the easiest dishes to prepare on a trip. You’ll love these no-cook meals for traveling!

Let’s be real … nobody wants to cook on their vacation. However, it isn’t economical to eat out every meal, and if you are off the grid camping, then you can’t anyway. Luckily, there are lots of great no-cook meals for traveling out there! They might take a bit of preparation beforehand, and you’ll definitely need a cooler or refrigerator of some sort, but it can be done! 

While the options for minimal-cook or prepare-before-hand meals are endless, we are going to challenge ourselves today. For this guide, we will only use only recipes that you need absolutely no heat source for, once you’re on the road.  That’s not to say, you couldn’t modify some of them to make even better meals cooked over a campfire or stove—like s’mores! 

App-Guided Travel Adventures

While you’re traveling, don’t forget to download our app and search for nearby scavenger hunts ! Each adventure is designed to help you get to know new places and learn fun facts. Search through hundreds of tours , pub crawls , art walks, and ghost hunts and find one perfect for you!

No-Cook Breakfast Meals for Traveling

​Breakfast is the most important meal of the day right? It certainly is if you plan on taking a long hike or spending the day in one of the blazing hot national parks of the Western United States. While packaged doughnuts are totally an option, let’s what else we can find!

1. Overnight Oats

Overnight oats are a simple and nutritious way to start the day. All you need is something to keep them cold. There are a million ways to make overnight oats.  Most recipes call for milk of some sort, your favorite nut butter, and then embellishments. For a banana bread flavor, try oats, almond butter, milk, cinnamon, and maple syrup. Mix, and allow to sit in the refrigerator or cooler overnight. You want your mixture to be fluid and runny, as the oats will absorb the milk overnight. Add cut bananas in the morning and enjoy! Many people choose to add flax seeds, yogurt, or chia seeds for extra protein. There’s no wrong way to do it, whatever ingredients you have on hand will do!

2. Peanut Butter Protein Balls

Chilled peanut butter balls are not only an amazing-tasting snack but they’re also packed with protein and all the sugar you need for a long hike. You can make them before you leave the house, and just throw them in the cooler. Five easy ingredients of chocolate chips, ground flaxseed, peanut butter or other nut butter, honey, and oats are all it takes for this perfect camping trip power breakfast.

3. British Bean Bites

Sounds weird to Americans, but the brits eat cold beans and bread for breakfast all the time. Open a can of baked beans and served atop crunchy french or focaccia bread! The British version would be more akin to Showboat Pork and Beans than saucy baked beans. They’re usually in a thin, tomato sauce, not a sweet, thick BBQ sauce. 

4. Yogurt Parfaits

Low-sugar yogurt is packed with healthy protein. Add a little granola and fresh fruit for a complete breakfast. We love this one because the ingredients are available at pretty much any grocery store and can be used for other quick meals as well. A large can of rolled oats and a big tub of original Greek yogurt should be on everyone’s packing list for a road trip or camping trip. 

5. Boiled Eggs

This is the one cheater on the list. You’ll have to cook them before you leave, but boiled eggs are valuable to have around. You can at them on their own, or use them in several of the recipes on our list. Boil a batch of 12 before you leave the house, and they will keep for a few days in the cooler. Eggs will keep you full for a while, have healthy protein, and pack easily. Just peel and eat! Plus, you can use them for several of the other recipes on our list.

6. Bagels and Cream Cheese

Don’t know about you, but there’s nothing much better than an “everything bagel.” Pack a brick of cream cheese or goat cheese in your cooler, and you are good to go. You can top with blueberries for some extra anti-oxidants, or sprinkle with un-salted sunflower seeds for a little extra belly-filling protein. 

7. Banana and Peanut Butter

It’s simple, but it’s effective. Just beware with this one if you are sensitive to sugars. Bananas are a high sugar item, so you might consider pairing them with organic nut butter with no extra sugar added. Add a glass of your favorite milk, and you are good to go!

Better yet …

8. Banana Cereal

Nope, we don’t mean put bananas on your cereal, we mean make banana cereal. This was grandma’s specialty. We loved it, and your kids will love it, assuming they like bananas. Cut up the banana in thin slices, sprinkle with a bit of cinnamon and douse in milk. Eat up!

9. Avocado toast

There’s nothing you can’t do with the superfood avocado. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it will show up everywhere on this list. It’s easy to pack, easy to find in most stores, and works to eat by itself, as a garnish, or as a spread or dip. It truly is a superfood. Since you likely won’t have a toaster, and it’s not as good on untoasted bread, consider grabbing some English muffins from the store. Mash your avocado a bit, making it soft. Spread over your muffin. Shred some of your boiled egg over the top and add a few diced tomatoes or spicy salsa … breakfast of champs!

10. Muffins

One of our favorite road trip treats is Otis Spunkmeyer Chocolate Chocolate Chip muffins. There is just something about them that screams wreckless vacation abandon! 

11. Chia Pudding

Like overnight oats, chia pudding can be made beforehand and kept in the refrigerator. A good chia pudding base only needs 3 ingredients: Chia seeds, milk, and something sweet. For a little extra flair, combine chia seeds, your favorite milk, pureed strawberries, or another berry, and a bit of yogurt. Let it sit in the fridge overnight, and the chia seeds will suck up all the liquid, expand, and turn into a kind of gelatinous pudding. Top with almonds and coconut shreds or cacao nibs for the perfect treat! Add a bit of honey if you need some sweetness. 

12. Just be gross, you’re on vacation

When all else fails, Poptarts are tasty. It’s not ideal on the health front, but there is no shame in having some easy, premade stuff on your vacation. While you certainly don’t want to eat 5 Little Debbies a day (well, you might want to, but you probably shouldn’t) it never hurts to have one. There’s nothing better to celebrate conquering that beast of a hike than a Cosmic Brownie. You earned it. If you are absolutely against big-brand packaged foods and all their harmful grossness, there are some stellar organic options out there for granola bars, breakfast bars, and even brownies. 

No-Cook Lunchtime Meals for Traveling

Lunch on a trip needs to be quick, easy, and filling. If you are traveling alone, that’s super easy, but if you need to please a whole picky family, we don’t envy you. That job is much harder. Good luck to you! Hopefully, you’ll find something below that your clan will enjoy. 

13. Charcuterie board

You’ll be the fanciest road-trippers at the RV park with this one. Cold cuts, salami, fresh cucumbers, cubed cheese, an assortment of nuts, grapes, and some tomato slices, and you have a lunch that not only fuels your body but looks super pretty! We love charcuterie boards because they’re easy to feed a lot of people with, and littles can come by and pick up a healthy bite as they play. It can be stuck in the fridge and pulled out later too, so it just works great. 

14. Egg Salad Sandwiches

You still have those boiled eggs right? Turn them into yummy egg salad and slap it on a sandwich. Pair with some potato chips, and get back on the trail!

15. Good Old Peanut Butter and Jelly

Hey, don’t knock it. It’s an American classic, and it is tasty whether you are 3 or 93. 

16. Tuna salad

Tuna salad is another protein-packed option that is easy to carry on the road. Buy some packets or cans, or better yet fresh tuna if you live somewhere you can get it. Add your favorite fixings. This tuna salad recipe with red onion, dijon mustard, and celery is super tasty! Serve with crackers or as a sandwich. It doesn’t get much easier. Tuna is handy to have around, as you can also add it to pre-bought pasta salads for a little extra protein or make tuna-stuffed avocados for dinner (later). 

17. Chicken Caesar Wraps

Chicken Caesar wraps are one of the best backpacking recipes. Whether you choose to grab a rotisserie chicken at the store before you leave or go with canned chicken, either way, it makes for a delicious meal. This chicken Caesar recipe with whole wheat tortillas , parmesan cheese, and cherry tomatoes is simple and yummy! 

18. Crab Salad

The grainy mustard and sharp cheddar in this creamy crab salad recipe make it extra delicious! However, like tuna or chicken salad, you can pretty much throw everything but the kitchen sink in a crab salad or put nothing but mayo, and it will be just fine in a pinch. Plop it in a pita bread pocket, and pair it with some fresh veggies, and you have the perfect lunch.

19. Berry Salad

Add a little extra beauty to your boring salad with some colorful berries.  Romaine lettuce topped with strawberries, blueberries, shaved almonds, and feta cheese or goat cheese is a quick, healthy camper lunch. Throw on your favorite dressing, we love this Brianna’s blueberry balsamic vinaigrette . 

20. Pimento Cheese Sandwiches

Pimento cheese is one of those things that we rarely eat unless we are traveling. Grab a tub at the store and use it on sandwiches, crackers, or as a spread for fresh veggies. It also makes a good addition to veggie tortilla wraps, lettuce wraps, or pinwheels.

21. Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Here’s where those ten cans of shredded chicken you bought are going to come in handy. Chicken salad can be very plain or really fancy. We love this cranberry pecan chicken salad recipe ! For a healthier option, omit the bread and serve as a lettuce wrap!

22. Smoked Salmon Stacks

A few packets of pre-cooked salmon are also nice to have around for fish tacos, to throw on your salad for a little extra filler, or to make this tasty lunch treat. This flatbread salmon stack is an easy option that requires just a bit of meal prep, so you might want to start the night before. If that is too much work, just load up some Ritz crackers with a bit of salmon, a slice of avocado, and a dash of salt and pepper for a quick and easy lunch. 

No-Cook Dinnertime Meals for Traveling

Dinner is probably the hardest category on the list, at least for Americans. We tend to save our largest meal for the end of the day, and we generally want something warm. So, a completely no-cook dinner is out of the normal for many of us (though sandwich or cereal night is certainly not unheard of in our house)! 

23. Greek Salad

A traditional Greek salad is not only healthy and tasty, but goodness it is pretty. While recipes vary all over the Mediterranean and the Balkans, they generally consist of fresh diced tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and sometimes bell peppers, red onions, and cucumbers. You can make it any way you want, with whatever you have. Toss in a little olive oil or vinaigrette and a pinch of salt. Magnifique!

24. Stuffed Avocados

This is one of our favorite no-cook camping meals. Split an avocado, and remove the pit. Fill the center with a plop of your favorite meat salad. Sprinkle with salt and pepper or paprika. You can use any of the meat you have, salmon, chicken, tuna. Use the leftover tuna salad from yesterday’s lunch. Another option is to make taco-stuffed avocados . All you need is a taco-seasoning packet to add to the meat and veg you already have on hand!

25. Crab Ceviche

Ceviche is a cold seafood dish, popular all over Central America. It is traditionally made with fresh fish, lime juice, peppers, red onion, and whatever else you have on hand at the time! You can use any of the packaged or prebought fish you have to create “ camping ceviche .” For a side dish, whip up some 7-layer dip and tortilla chips for a complete no-cook dinner!

26. Veggie Gyros

These vegetable gyros feature our favorite item-avocadoes, plus chickpeas and yummy tzatziki spread. Chickpeas are packed with protein and all these veggies will get you to your daily allotment of vitamins and fiber. For the meat lovers in the group, you can easily add chicken you have on hand! 

27. Mexican 3-bean salad with guacamole

… Oh, sorry! Just dreaming about this Mexican 3-bean salad ! It might be a favorite meal idea on this list. Hiking and exploring make you hungry, and all the beans in this baby give you the fiber you need for a good night’s sleep! Pair it with fresh guacamole for the ultimate easy camping meal.  

28. Layered Taco Salad

Take some of that chicken you brought and mix in some taco seasoning. In a large bowl, layer it with cheese, beans, lettuce, and crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos. Alternate your layers of each until the bowl is full. Let everyone choose their own toppings of guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. 

Mexican food is the easiest no-cook dinner to make. Layer nachos with shredded canned meat, beans, and all the veggies and toppings you like! If you can warm your meat and beans, that’s great, but it is just as good cold!

Snack Ideas or Side Dishes

You’ll likely be more active on your vacation than you are in normal daily life. It seems most of us need a vacation from our vacation by the time we get home. So, you are going to need more fuel than usual. Plus, if you have kids in tow, then snacks are a primary food group (maybe the only food group)! Make sure you have some good ones on board!

30. Veggies and Hummus

Nothing super inventive here, but it’s easy and effective. Plus, you might get your picky ones to eat a carrot or bell pepper stick if it is slathered in yummy hummus or guacamole. You could make a big batch of homemade hummus before your trip, or make it easy on yourself and buy some tasty flavors at the store.

31. Trail Mix

No surprise here, trail mix is a great idea to have on hand. It fits easily in the backpack for long hikes. You can throw the bag at a kid in the backseat when needed, and it is filled with tummy-filling protein. Make your own trail mix , or snag a giant premade bag from Amazon before your trip!

32. Fresh-Fruit Salad

Nothing screams summer like a bowl of fresh fruit. This fruit salad with citrus dressing is delightful and is the perfect anecdote for that summer heat! You might even convince your kids to eat something healthy today. 

33. Beef Jerky

Beef jerky just belongs in a backpack. They go hand in hand. 

34. Pesto Pinwheels

Pinwheels are a classic party appetizer, but they also make a great one-bite snack. We love these pinwheels , but there are many great ones out there, so use what you have on hand! It does take a little bit of meal prep time as they need to sit in the refrigerator or cooler for several hours to set up. 

35. Deli Rolls

Don’t know about you, but to us, there isn’t anything better than a slice of your favorite cheese, rolled up inside of a piece of deli meat. Admit it, you have done it. You can make it fancy with a hummus spread or olive-decorated toothpick! It’s quick, easy, filling, and budget-friendly. We love it!

No-Cook Snacks for Traveling

36. s’mores.

Okay, so the best s’mores require a little smoking on a campfire, but technically you can make them with uncooked marshmallows. They’re still super tasty!

37. To-Go Banana Pudding

The banana version is the best, but you can try this treat with any premade pudding cup of your liking. Crush a bag of Vanilla wafers. Add it to your pudding cup. Slice up a banana for garnish and plop a dollop of Cool Whip on top. Yummm.

38. No-Bake Lemon Tarts

Lemon pudding snack packs can easily be turned into a tart. Line a small bowl, or just make a pile of finely crushed Graham crackers. Slather on a healthy slab of cold lemon pudding, and top with your favorite whipped topping. Sprinkle on nuts or coconut shavings to taste!

39. Cottage Cheese and Dried Fruit

This one won’t please everyone, but if you love it, you love it! Cottage cheese has healthy fat and is a good source of protein. It will keep you full, and if you top it with some sweet dried pineapple, it’s pretty tasty!

40. Fresh Strawberries and Whipped Topping

Strawberries topped with a little sugar take on a totally different flavor! If you don’t use granulated sugar, honey works just as well. Slice them up, add your honey or sugar, and allow them to sit in a cold environment for at least 4 hours. If you want a lush dessert, stock up on some pre-made angel food cakes or make one at home before your trip. The decadent strawberry mixture on top of some food cake with whipped topping is a fantastic dessert any day of the week!

41. Fruit Pizza

Pizza! Create this delectable treat with granola, nut butter, cinnamon, and chopped almonds. Combine together to make a delicious crust. You can add honey if you use unsweetened nut butter. Press into a pie pan or dish, or just press flat on parchment paper. Let chill in the refrigerator or ice chest for at least an hour. Cover in yogurt or softened cream cheese, then sprinkle with your favorite fresh fruits, cacao nibs, or drizzle with chocolate syrup!

Other Staples To Keep On Hand

If you tried to make everything on this list, your entire camper would be full of food and ingredients. Instead, try to group your choices by recipes that use and reuse a smaller number of ingredients. Remember you can always repurpose your leftovers from day 1 lunch for day 2 dinner. Get creative. With this sample shopping list, you’ll be able to create several dishes.

• Canned or packed meats: tuna, salmon, and chicken
• Canned beans of several varieties
• Boiled eggs
• Lots of fresh fruit and veggies
• A tub of your favorite “crumbled” cheese – Feta or goat.
• A jar of nut butter
• A large bag of mixed nuts and seeds
• Your favorite multi-purpose bread
• Mayonnaise and brown mustard
• Granola or oats
• Olive oil and lemon juice or a vinaigrette dressing
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder

Closing Thoughts

Just because you don’t want to cook doesn’t mean you can’t eat like a king on your vacation. With a little forethought, some smart shopping, and perhaps a small amount of meal planning before you leave, you can ensure that you have everything you need to whip up fast, easy meals on the go. 

What are your go-to camping or travel meals? Let us know in the comments!

Going on a long hike? Here are a few more “ Healthy Travel Snack Ideas To Keep Your Belly Full. ” 

If you want an epic camping adventure this summer, check out our list of the “ 20 Best National Parks In The USA .”

Frequently Asked Questions

No one wants to cook on vacation. Some of the best no-cook traveling meals are not only filling but healthy too. While camping, try stuffed avocados, crab salad, or camping ceviche.

Travel food should be easy, and the ingredients versatile. Some of the best no-cook traveling meals can be made with bread, nuts, seeds, fresh fruit, and vegetables. And don’t knock canned ingredients!

It’s always best to seek travel advice from experts ! For starters, download travel apps to save on fares and an adventure app for fun. Also, plan some no-cook meals to fuel up between adventures.

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Road Trip Food List: Easy to Pack Meals & Snacks

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Are you looking for a road trip food list that includes the best road trip snacks and other food to bring on a road trip?

Road trips can range from being budget-friendly to out-of-this-world expensive if you do not plan ahead, especially when it comes to eating food.

The temptation to grab a snack at every gas station, as well as to eat out at restaurants or gorge on fast food, can really start to add up in terms of money and wasted time.

One way to save money and time while road tripping, however, is to bring your own food!

By making a road trip food list and packing fun road trip snacks, you’ll avoid having to stop and spend as much.

Our road trip food list includes easy road trip snacks, as well as portable breakfast, lunch, and dinner options – plus, a FREE Road Trip Food List printable to take with you to the grocery store.

The links on this page are Amazon affiliate links. If you click on the links and make a purchase, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Road Trip Food List: Breakfast

One of our absolute best family road trip tips is to leave bright and early in the morning when starting a long road trip.

As the most important meal of the day, luckily, having breakfast on the road is the easiest meal to eat cold and on the go.

If you decide to hit the road early, or if your hotel en route doesn’t offer a free breakfast, plan ahead by bringing along these simple road trip breakfast foods.

Our tried-and-true road trip food list awaits!

Road Trip Breakfast Ideas

• Yogurt tubes and granola bars
• Muffins, donuts, and scones
• Bagels and cream cheese
• Squeezable applesauce
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Peanut butter, banana, and granola wrapped up in a tortilla
• Make-Ahead Fruit & Yogurt Breakfast Parfaits

Additional planning tip: For added morning fun, use the category “breakfast foods”, “brands or cereal”, or “types of fruit” while you play a road trip word game .

Road Trip Food List: Lunch

When it comes to planning for lunch and beyond, your road trip packing list should always include a reliable portable cooler .

Whether you chill made-ahead sandwiches, salami & cheese, fruits, or veggies, there are so many awesome road trip food ideas when it comes to having lunch on the go.

What we love about these road tip lunch ideas is that they keep us out of congested cities and fast-food drive-thrus during the busy noon hour.

Road Trip Lunch Ideas

• Premade sandwiches with deli meat and cheese (make them extra fun by using shaped sandwich cutters !)
• Peanut butter sandwiches (skip the jelly to avoid sogginess)
• Pita pocket with mozzarella, tomato, basil, turkey, cheese, hummus, cucumber, and/or tuna salad
• Home-ade Lunchables with summer sausage, cheese, and crackers
• Tortilla with cream cheese, sliced olives, and pepperoni
• Veggies and single-serve packs of ranch dressing, hummus, or guacamole
• Pre-assembled Salad In A Jar

Road Trip Food List: Dinner

If there is one meal that you choose to splurge on, I recommend stopping to have dinner at a roadside restaurant or cafe.

Though this may not be your final destination, experiencing another city in this way will help you check more places off of your family travel bucket list !

If you’re not keen on stopping, however, here are the road trip foods we enjoy that are tasty and hearty enough to serve as dinner.

Road Trip Dinner Ideas

• Cold rotisserie chicken, chunked and served with a garden salad (package in a disposable salad container )
• Pre-made pasta salad, such as Pizza Pasta Salad
• StarKist ready-to-eat tuna salad in an avocado half or on a bun
• Chicken and pickled veggies in pitas
• Hummus veggie wrap

Additional planning tip: If you’re road tripping in the winter when driving conditions are much more unpredictable, packing extra road trip food is an essential component of your winter road trip packing list .

Road Trip Food List: Snacks

In my opinion, snacks   are the No. 1 way to keep everyone (including you!) happy on a family road trip.

Homemade snack mixes and individual pre-purchased snacks are also a great way to help cut costs associated with buying food on the road.

For this reason, I suggest assembling an entire tub filled with fun and appetizing snacks and surprises that you know your kids will love.

We use these  16-quart storage tubs from Sterilite  that are the perfect size, price, and durability!

Road Trip Snacks Ideas

• Chips and pretzels
• Animal crackers (Suprise them with Barnum’s Originals !)
• Filled crackers (peanut butter, cheese)
• Nuts (cashews, almonds, peanuts)
• String cheese, Babybel, Laughing Cow cheese wedges
• Fresh or dried fruit
• Healthy no-bake cookies
• Candy and gummy candy

Be extra organized for your family road trip by clicking the following image to get your FREE family vacation packing list that is both customizable and printable!

Travel Snacks for Toddlers

Road tripping with toddlers presents its own set of challenges and requires additional thought when it comes to toddler-friendly road trip activities and food.

(It’s much harder to keep a close eye on them when they’re in the backseat, and you’re in the front.)

When considering toddler road trip foods, the most important thing is to avoid giving them anything to eat that could be deemed a choking hazard.

In addition, opt for healthy versus overly sweet options that may give them a tummy ache.

Our favorite healthy toddler car snacks and road trip foods include:

• Graham crackers
• Snap pea crisps
• Applesauce and/or yogurt pouches
• Cheese sticks
• Soft mini muffins
• Whole-grain crackers
• Bananas and/or this apple slices

9 Essential Tips For Traveling With Food

As seasoned travelers, we’ve assembled a list of tips for traveling with road trip foods and make-ahead hotel room meals.

• Use up your most delicate fruit first when on long-haul road trips.

In other words, start by eating bananas and berries, then move on to more sturdy produce such as apples and oranges that don’t spoil as easily.

2. Every family needs an organized packing strategy !

When it comes to road trip food, tortillas, pitas, or other sturdy flatbreads work better to bring along than do loaves of bread. They take up a lot less room and do not risk getting smashed.

3. When packing a cooler with items that need to stay chilled, be sure to lay the ice on the top, versus the bottom of the cooler.

This is because cold air sinks and will, therefore, disperse itself more evenly if laid on top of the food.

4. Aim to open the cooler only 1 or 2 times a day in order to maintain its refrigeration and keep the ice from thawing.

5. Also, make all food, including snacks, easily accessible throughout the duration of your family road trip.

This prevents someone (likely mom or dad!) from having to constantly bend over the back seat or stop to open the trunk every time hunger or boredom hits.

6. Avoid bringing anything made of glass on your road trip, including glass food containers. Glass is heavy, bulky, and very dangerous when broken within the confines of your family vehicle.

7. Assemble and bring along a road trip kit with the following road trip essentials for spills, clean-ups, and car sickness:

• Anti-bacterial wipes
• Hand sanitizer
• Garbage bags
• Ziplock bags
• Napkins/paper towels
• Saltine crackers and motion sickness medicine

8. Each time you stop while on a road trip, don’t forget to pitch any garbage that has accumulated.

This prevents build-up and smelliness.

9. Head to the grocery store with our FREE printable checklist and purchase all of your road trip food in one shopping trip!

If you enjoyed reading our best Road Trip Food List , click here to check out our Related Posts:

• Top 10 Tips for Planning a Family Road Trip (And Enjoying it Too!)
• 7 Road Trip Word Games to Play in the Car With Kids
• 18 Amazing “Are We There Yet” Road Trip Activity Bags
• Top 16 Tips for Flying With Kids & Ways to Keep them Calm
• The Ultimate Guide for International Travel with Kids
• 8 (Unexpected) Benefits of Traveling With Kids

*Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find our exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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Thank you for the road trip food list and travel tips.

You’re welcome! Was there something you saw that you hadn’t thought of before? Happy travels!!

This is a great list as we also big in road trip. Snacks is so important especially to keep them from asking are we there yet. Haha… I myself like peanuts to keep me awake when it’s my turn to drive.

Thanks for reading and for sharing your favorite road trip snack!!

This is such a comprehensive list and it is so helpful as I predict a lot of us will be going on more road trips once we can. Prepping these meals will definitely save some money and help the kids feel less bored. I know that my kids are usually pleased munching stuffs during road trips. I also like that it is more likely for the road trip snack to be more healthier than what you’ll buy elsewhere.

Thank you! Yes, the health factor of pre-packing is a big one, as is the enormous cost savings 🙂

I like to have a good mix of healthy (kids like apples, those are easy to eat) and snacky/salty. I am also very particular. about road trip drinks. Big coffees, la croix, iced tea!

I like your ideas! We’d be good road trip buddies!

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99 Travel Hacks To Make Your Next Trip A Little Easier

I’ve never cared about brand-name purses or clothing, much less cars or makeup. Instead, I spend whatever leftover money I can on travel. Traveling has exceptional “memory dividends” long after the money’s gone and is the best way to experience all the world has to offer (at least, in my humble opinion).

I’ve now been to 30+ countries and hundreds of cities—from rural northern Thailand to Moorea in French Polynesia to most of the United States—so I’ve picked up quite a few hacks here and there to make traveling the best experience it can be. Below, I’m sharing 99 of my best tips so you can spend less time planning and questioning and more time experiencing and enjoying. Got more? Share them in the comments; we don’t gate-keep here!

Wherever you’re heading—whether by plane, train, or bus—safe travels and happy exploring! 🌍

1. To save time, only pack a carry-on ; no more waiting at baggage claim! 

2. If you decide to check a bag in, throw an Airtag into your suitcase, so you can always track where it is and ensure it’s reached your destination.

3. For the best possible travel deals, be flexible on your destination and dates. I’ve scored deals to multiple European cities for under $200 by leveraging that flexibility.

4. Perhaps the most important tip of all: Always buy travel insurance . Always.

5. Allocate all your spending on a credit card that racks up points which can later be redeemed for travel—my preferred option is Chase Sapphire Reserve or the AmEx Gold.

6. Sign up for credit card bonuses that offer up to 150,000 points once you hit a minimum spending bonus—I like to check Nerdwallet’s top credit card offers (updated monthly) to see the best bonuses.

7. Search for flights leaving at off-peak times (for example, mid-week, red eyes, or with a layover) if you’re trying to save money.

Prioritize early morning flights; they’re the least likely to be delayed or canceled.

8. If convenience is more important than money, prioritize early morning flights; they’re the least likely to be delayed or canceled.

9. Use Google Incognito or a VPN to search for flights. Searching on the same browser and internet connection tells the airline that you’re looking to book and allows them to hike the price up. 

10. Once you find a flight you like—if you’re not ready to book—set up an alert to be notified if the price changes. If it drops, great! If not, you’ll know to book soon or keep an eye on it in case it comes back down.

11. Not sure when to go? Check out apps like Skyscanner or Hopper to find the best prices and times of year to head to your destination.

12. Sign up for loyalty programs with every airline you can; you never know when you’ll need to use them, and you can rack up miles for later use.

13. If you’re used to one specific airline, see if they have an airline-specific credit card for additional bonuses and perks. For example, United Airlines has major hubs in both our hometowns and our current cities so we have the United MileagePlus cards, which offer early boarding, free baggage, and 60,000 points each.

14. Keep an eye out for points sales , like Black Friday or Cyber Monday deals, 30% off transfer premiums, and more. (This is always a good option to keep in mind if you just need a few more points for a mostly-free flight!)

15. Look into mistake fares (deeply discounted fares mistakenly shared by an airline). They can sometimes be canceled or refunded, but many times, airlines will honor them anyway. One time, I was able to travel to Milan, Prague, and Amsterdam for $197 one-way from New York.

16. Subscribe to real-time alerts from The Points Guy , The Flight Deal on Twitter, and more.

17. If you have a few bucks to spare, sign up for flight deals from Going (previously known as Scott’s Cheap Flights). You’ll share your departure airports of choice, and you’ll receive deals right in your inbox.

18. Sign up for TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, or Global Entry to expedite the security process.

19. Once you’re past security but before you get to the gate, check out the Priority Pass, which will give you access to hundreds of lounges around the world. Both Chase and AmEx offer cards with Priority Pass access, and once you get to a lounge, you can stock up on free food, drinks, WiFi, and more.

20. Heading abroad? Use a third-party encrypted program like WhatsApp, Viber, or Signal for international texts and calls—you can avoid extra data and call charges!

Alert your credit and debit card companies about your travel so you don’t get flagged for fraud.

21. If you need access to international calls, buy a SIM card locally—you can usually find kiosks in the airport after arrival, or sometimes your carrier will offer a global SIM card for temporary use.

22. Alert your credit and debit card companies about your travel so you don’t get flagged for fraud.

23. Get a no-fee ATM for international destinations; my favorite is the Charles Schwab.

24. Only ask for ATM withdrawals in the local currency, not your native one.

25. Same for credit card charges; if you’re in Italy, pay with your card in Euros, not USD (for example). Then you’ll avoid fees and often score better conversation rates.

26. Download the airline app before you fly for easy access to your boarding pass, checking in, and seat or meal selection.

27. While you’re at it, you can check out the seat map on most flights to see what’s open and change seats accordingly.

28. You may even find an open seat in First or Business Class—consider politely asking for an upgrade. You never know if they’ll say yes!

29. If your travel plans are flexible, volunteer for a later flight when they’re offering compensation to offset the cost of the airfare.

30. If you decide to volunteer, try and wait to see if they’ll increase the compensation before you agree. Sometimes, you can get thousands of dollars in flight vouchers if you hold out long enough.

31. Buffer in extra time for delays—always.

32. Have a connecting flight? Aim for at least a 90-minute layover in between to avoid missing your flight in case of delays, security issues, etc.

33. Travel during shoulder season (i.e., not quite peak time yet). For example, if June-August is the best time of year to visit Greece, consider going in May or September for lower prices but still preferable conditions.

34. Don’t cut costs over convenience either, though—if you know you suffer from insomnia and back pain, taking a red eye in economy to save $100 may not be worthwhile. Similarly, don’t go for the cheapest hotel without thorough vetting; you don’t want to be stuck three miles from the beach without a bike because you didn’t know how far it was!

35. Check out alternative modes of transport besides the typical plane or car: Trains, bikes, public transportation, buses…the list goes on. These are often cheaper, better for the environment, and more accessible.

Create a default packing list for yourself that you can copy and tailor for each trip.

36. Create a default packing list for yourself that you can copy and tailor for each trip. This way, you’ll know you’ve included all the necessities most important to you, like specific medications, chargers, and toiletries.

37. Wear layers while in transit—it’s easier to pack your luggage, and you can stay warm (or cool) as needed.

38. If you suffer from swollen ankles or potential blood clots when sitting in one place for hours, get a pair of compression socks. There’s a reason many travel pros swear by them!

39. Another must? A reusable water bottle. Perfect for refilling inside the airport after security, carrying with you on tours, and having in case of emergency.

40. Heading to a place without clean, potable water? Don’t forget to bring a water filter or purifier for when you’re on the go.

41. Easily organize your suitcase (and save space!) with packing cubes .

42. If you’re really in need of space, consider vacuum bags to compress all your clothes.

43. If you know you’ll want to shop or bring back many souvenirs, get a secondhand suitcase at your local thrift store for cheap and fill ‘er up.

44. Don’t bring too many valuables. Many women travel pros will wear fake wedding rings to avoid burglaries or attacks.

45. Always tell someone at home what your itinerary is and where you’ll be. Even better if you can tell someone you trust locally in case of an emergency. #safety

46. Turn on location services and sharing, too, for good measure.

Print out extra copies of your passports and travel docs; keep digital copies in your email as well.

47. Print out extra copies of your passports and travel docs; keep digital copies in your email as well. Losing your passport is all too easy! 48. Need to drive worldwide? Don’t forget to pick up an International Driver’s Permit , which are readily available at most AAA locations.

49. Want to save money or avoid excess noise? Stay slightly away from downtown city centers and tourist spots—usually going even two or three blocks away can make all the difference.

50. Another way to cut costs is to consider house-sitting or couch surfing, depending on your level of comfort. 

51. Hostels are another great budget-friendly accommodation option; it’s also a wonderful place to meet like-minded people and organize local tours.

52. Weigh the cost of laundry versus the cost of a checked bag. Sometimes packing light and doing laundry will be far cheaper than paying for an extra suitcase.

53. Pack a capsule wardrobe for easy mix ‘n matching for your daily #lewks.

54. Think about items you may need at a destination that you’ll end up paying a premium for later and see if you can get them beforehand. For example, sunblock at a tropical destination will be far more expensive than getting it in the off-season in the Midwest.

55. Pack an essentials kit in case you need certain toiletries or accessories while in transit—for example, a small bag with spare underwear, ear plugs, eye mask, tampons, and charging wires.

56. Carry a purse or travel bag that you can keep close on your body, closed with zippers rather than buttons or flaps. This will help stop pickpockets!

57. Pack extra snacks. Just trust me on this one! You never know when you may need sustenance and can’t find anything worthwhile.

If you can, take the day off after you get home so you can ease back into everyday life.

58. If you can, take the day off after you get home so you can ease back into everyday life. Then you can finish up any chores or errands like laundry, grocery shopping, and more without worrying about rushing back into the office.

59. In your carry-on backpack or purse, keep an extra set of clothes, a toothbrush, and undies in case your luggage gets lost. (Which is another reason why you always want travel insurance!)

60. If you’re not using data and/or are heading to a remote area, download offline versions of Google Maps and take screenshots of any information you need.

61. If you’re heading to a foreign country and the local language isn’t one you speak, download the Google Translate app. You can then converse with locals, take photos of written text to translate, and more. (This was an invaluable tool when I was stranded in northern Thailand during a downpour once!)

62. Download media a day or two before you leave, so you can access it while traveling—think audiobooks, ebooks, Netflix, etc.

63. Get the best portable charger you can afford if you know you’ll be relying on your phone throughout the trip. You’ll never regret it.

64. Pack a universal adapter so you can use your electronic devices around the globe.

Pack a universal adapter so you can use your electronic devices around the globe.

65. Don’t forget a converter too, if your electronics’ voltage doesn’t match up to the outlets abroad.

66. Getting a rental? Book the reservation on a credit card like Chase or AmEx, which offers auto insurance and collision insurance for rentals.

67. If that’s not an option, it’s well worth getting auto insurance from the rental company. 

68. Take photos of everything important: The condition of your rental when you pick it up/drop it off, receipts if you’re going to be reimbursed or splitting costs, WiFi passwords, and so on.

69. Make sure you’re up-to-date on your vaccinations and shots , which vary by country. (And don’t wait until the last minute to book your appointment!)

70. Read. The. Reviews. Make sure you look for any bots or planted reviews, and keep an eye out for any red flags, whether you’re searching for accommodations, a tour, or restaurants.

71. Similarly, seek out vetted tour groups if you’re traveling alone. A few of my favorites for women include El Camino Travel , Stellavision Travel , and G Adventures .

72. Sometimes DIYing a trip can be helpful, but other times, a good travel agent is the most valuable. They’ll get access to exclusive discounts, tours, or accommodations that you couldn’t leverage otherwise.

73. If you’re considering traveling with a friend or partner, ensure your travel priorities are aligned before leaving. Nothing will be more frustrating than having a companion sleep in when you’re a morning person or dealing with a racket first thing in the morning if you’re a night owl.

74. In the same vein, learn many of your destinations’ cultural nuances and customs—it’s important to be considerate and mindful of the communities you’re visiting.

75. Heading to a faraway destination? Try pairing nearby cities together on this trip so you knock out two at once.

76. Stay hydrated, especially when traveling. We’re already adjusting to new environments, time zones, etc., and hydration is key for our bodies to adapt.

Get sunlight as early as possible when you’re in a new time zone to help reset your circadian rhythm. 

77. Get sunlight as early as possible when you’re in a new time zone to help reset your circadian rhythm. 

78. Napping to adjust a timezone is okay, but try staying awake the whole day and sleeping at night to beat jet lag once and for all.

79. Chew gum while taking off or landing if your ears pop while in flight.

80. Invest in a quality skin mask or moisturizer, lip balm, and lotion during and post-flight when our skin is driest.

81. Luggage scales can be clutch—if your baggage is overweight and you can’t rid yourself of any items, you’ll be on the hook for hefty excess fees.

82. Traveling with kiddos? Bring a “busy bag” to keep them entertained throughout the day, stocked with coloring books, toys, a tablet, snacks, and whatever else your little one prefers.

83. If you’re dealing with long-haul travel, you’ll want a quality neck pillow—this is mine and I’m obsessed.

84. If you can , opt for a backpack over a suitcase or duffel. There’s a good chance transportation carriers won’t bother to weigh your backpack!

Whatever you’re budgeting for your trip, add another 10-20% in case of emergency.

85. Whenever you get samples like shampoo, moisturizers, or sunscreen, throw them in your travel toiletry bag. That way, you don’t need to bring the bulk items or worry about the liquid limit.

86. Throw a lavender satchel or a dryer sheet in your bag to keep things smelling…fresh. 🙂

87. Pack at least two extra large plastic or ziplock bags for shoes, dirty clothes, etc.

88. Opt for a bright-colored suitcase so it’s easy to spot at baggage claim or while in transit.

89. If you’re flying with another person and can book your seats in advance, one of you can take the window and the other can take the aisle. That way, the middle seat will likely be left open for you both to enjoy.

90. Always keep a spare pen on you, especially if you know you’ll have to fill out customs forms or write down directions.

91. Take a picture of your car or write down where it is in your notes app so you don’t forget where you’ve parked, whether at an airport parking lot or a new hotel.

92. Bring extra wipes or a sanitizer spray for when there’s no washroom or when things need some tidying…like your tray table.

93. Whatever you’re budgeting for your trip, add another 10-20% in case of emergency.

94. Check out local walking tours in big cities; they’re often free or pay-what-you-can and are a great way to see the most important sights and get acquainted.

95. Some businesses offer deals if you book with a partner company—for example, United MileagePlus members earn savings if you book a car rental through Avis or Budget.

Travel is one of the most valuable experiences there is in life. Enjoy every moment, be mindful and respectful, and explore as much as you can.

96. Don’t forget to check if you’ll need a visa for specific countries! Or, prioritize countries where you won’t need one for ease of access and to save money.

97. Eat street food (as long as it’s cooked in front of you and looks safe!). It’s often one of the best ways to enjoy a local culture.

98. Make lunch your biggest meal—it’s usually cheaper than dinner while being just as filling.

99. Most importantly, remember: Travel is one of the most valuable experiences there is in life. Enjoy every moment, be mindful and respectful, and explore as much as you can.

Henah Velez  (she/her) is a Contributing Editor at The Good Trade. She is the Executive Producer at  Money with Katie  at Morning Brew, a personal finance brand for women including a chart-topping podcast, blog, and newsletter. She’s also a long-time writer at The Good Trade. Henah holds a Master’s in Social Entrepreneurship and is a proud Rutgers grad. Originally from NJ, Henah’s now in Atlanta where she loves shopping small, hanging with her pets, or traveling.   Say hi on  Instagram !

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Road Trip Food List: The Ultimate Food for Road Trips

If you want to make a road trip food list for a family vacation that involves a lot of car travel, then you’re in the right place. We’ve taken many family road trips over the years, so we now have some experience in picking out the best food for road trips.

Kids are notorious for asking ‘are we nearly there yet?’ along the way, but surely the second most commonly heard words involve how hungry they are! This is why a good stash of the best road trip snacks is always the number one priority on our road trip grocery list.

While some treats will help to keep kids happy, we’ve tried to include as many healthy road trip snacks as possible. If the children are going to be eating more or less constantly, we want at least some of what they consume to have nutritional value. Too much refined sugar might only make them hyperactive, anyway, which isn’t great when they need to stay in their seats.

So what can you include on a long road trip food list? That is of course your call, but we cover everything from make-ahead meals for your road trip to non-perishable road trip food you can keep in the car for those snack attacks.

Whether your priority is road trip food on a budget, making a healthy road trip food list or simply finding ideas for good road trip snacks, this guide is here to help you stave off the hunger pangs (as well as the boredom of a prolonged car journey).

Don’t go anywhere before you’ve checked out this guide to road trip snack ideas and make ahead meals for a road trip. All the best food for traveling in the car as a family can be found here, saving you time as well as money!

Why write a road trip food list?

There’s a whole bunch of reasons why a little planning can go a long way when it comes to road trip food ideas, as follows. Just pack your favorite travel backpack with some snacks to keep handy when you need some.

Road trip snacks help beat the boredom

Many of us are tempted to eat when we’re bored, so packing plenty of food for long road trips can quite simply help to keep the kids entertained. Especially when you include the best travel snacks – such as favorites of theirs or even exciting new foods to try.

Healthy car snacks can become reality

It’s often hard to find healthy foods to eat while traveling in a car when you stop at gas stations or make other quick pitstops. Selecting your own snacks to take on a road trip in advance helps to ensure you have more control over what your kids are consuming – and gives you more choice too.

You can buy cheap food for road trips

Stock up on good travel snacks – or even make-ahead meals for traveling – and you can save a small fortune. Whether you take homemade road trip snacks or buy them already packaged, it can be so much more cost-effective to buy from the grocery store before you leave than from the likes of the overpriced gas station shops you’ll pass along the way.

What to look for when choosing food for road trips

Before you make a final decision about what food to take on a road trip, it’s worth bearing these factors in mind.

The messiest road snacks

First, let’s take a look at what we don’t recommend! The best road trip food is not that which will leave a permanent mark on your car’s upholstery . Who wants to spend the first part of their vacation cleaning up the car interior?

Even when it’s not that warm, chocolate will quickly melt when held in little fingers, and if wiped on the car seats may either leave a brown stain or a greasy mark you can’t clean off. Chocolate is also high in both sugar and fat.

Potato chips

Potato chips are full of salt – and again they can leave greasy imprints behind. When crumbled into lots of tiny pieces they are also really hard to clean up – even with a powerful vacuum cleaner. Too much salt will also make children more thirsty.

Yes, fresh and dried fruit is a must for any snack list for a road trip – but choose carefully. Certain fruits, like berries in particular, really can stain clothing and your car interior. So while blueberries make great finger food and are packed with goodness, they’re not so great when it comes to cleaning up.

Check out the fruits listed below for some good family road trip snacks that will not leave a permanent reminder of your trip on your kids’ favorite clothes or the car seats. As well as berries, avoid oranges, mandarins and tomatoes, which can squirt out juice everywhere and leave stains.

Drinks other than water

We’d recommend giving the kids nothing but water to go with those snacks for traveling in the car. Soda can make a really sticky mess if spilled, and as for milk – you might never get rid of the remaining sour odor. Even fruit juice might taste so good that they drink more than they need, leading to cries for a restroom stop before another is actually due.

Nothing more than a bottle of water is really required to keep everyone hydrated. If it will be warm in the car, you could freeze the drinks bottles the night before to make sure each person has their own chilled drink.

Car trip food prep time

When you’re planning those road trip lunch ideas and snacks for car rides, don’t forget that you’re taking a vacation. Before you even leave you’ll therefore have to pack all the bags, check over the car and leave everything at home as tidy and organized as possible for your return.

So how much time will you really have to prep healthy road trip meals and snacks? Realistically, would a good supply of non-perishable road trip food work better, or perhaps a combination of both?

Could the kids help with car trip snacks?

Depending on the age and abilities of your children, could they help with the prep? If you can depend on them to make easy road trip meals or pack the best car snacks for all the family, then you may be able to delegate.

It’s also worth getting them involved when it comes to the next factor on the list – keeping the car in as clean and tidy a condition as can reasonably be expected!

Cleaning up after road trip sandwiches and snacks

Getting everyone to clean up after themselves as they go will make life much easier all around. Cleaning the car when you get there will thus be much less of a chore.

Where this is concerned, investing in certain items to pack alongside those easy meals for road trips and snack food for a trip can really make life much simpler – and cleaner!

In-car trash can

Buying a trash can for your car means there’s a place to put all the wrappers and packaging – rather than on the floor or all over the seats.

Most types hang over the headrest of a front seat, so they’re easy for the kids in the back to access. They’re generally very affordable and should last for years.

Click here to check out car trash cans

Paper napkins

Taking a stack of napkins is always a good idea – you can use them for wiping fingers and faces, mopping up spills and they could even be drawn on or used as origami paper if the kids run out of things to do.

Choosing recycled napkins is better for the planet – and may also help to ease any guilt you have about using some throwing away packaging!

Click here to check out packs of recycled napkins

Wet wipes or baby wipes really come in handy when a dry napkin isn’t quite up to the job of cleaning up a sticky or oily mess. Especially if you have younger kids.

As they’re designed for sensitive skin they shouldn’t cause any irritation, and again choosing eco-friendly baby wipes means doing your bit for the future.

Click here to check out eco-friendly wet wipes

Stain remover

If you have kids, keeping a stain removal product in the car is a good idea, period. Tide to Go makes a handy stick, which is easy to store in a door pocket or the glove box.

Click here to check out Tide to Go stain remover sticks

Carrying food to bring on a road trip

Finally, think about how you can carry all your food for a road trip. You may have items to use for this already, or it may be worth buying some of the following for future family adventures.

Rubbermaid take alongs

Take Alongs by Rubbermaid or other similar containers can be used to hold everything from essential road trip snacks to those simple road trip meals you want to pack. They come in all sorts of packs, shapes and sizes.

Click here to check out a range of Rubbermaid Take Alongs

Take & Toss cups

Rather than using them for drinks, take and toss cups can be used for sharing out and holding snacks while on the move.

Click here to check out Take and Toss cups

Ziploc bags

A ziplog bag is great for carrying those snacks to bring on a road trip. It can even help reduce mess by catching the spills or crumbs as you go if you munch while leaning over the open bag. (It may also come in handy in the event of travel sickness too.)

Click here to check out Ziploc sandwich and snack bags

A cooler is a must unless you want to stick solely to road trip snacks that are non refrigerated when the weather’s hot. Think about where you’ll keep it when choosing, as in some cases a bag might be easier to squeeze in if space is tight.

Click here to check out car cooler boxes and bags

Cooler ice packs

Don’t forget to buy some cooler ice packs if you’re ordering a cooler to keep everything cold and fresh. Pop them in the freezer the night before – perhaps along with your water bottles if you want chilled drinks.

Click here to check out cooler ice pack products

Water bottles

Don’t forget about having to hydrate! A good water bottle for each family member is ideal to take on vacation, as you can save on costly bottled drinks. A reusable water bottle is also again better for the environment.

Click here to check out water bottle options

Food for road trips: The best food for road trips ideas

Here are some of our top suggestions regarding what food to take on a road trip. Where possible, we’ve gone for less messy, more healthy options!

PB & J sandwiches

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches – or one or the other – make good finger food. Cut into ready-to-eat pieces; bite-sized is ideal for younger children.

Pita fingers or bagels

As pita bread and bagels are less crumbly than other breads, they make the best road trip food for those who love baked goods. Cut them into fingers or pieces beforehand to minimize mess.

Cooked pasta

Many kids love pasta so much that they will happily munch on it cold. Stir in some red or green pesto after cooking to add a little flavor.

You can cut a block of cheese up into cubes if you like – or go for Babybels which require no prep at all.

Buy Babybels here

Hard boiled eggs

Packed with protein and iron, these are a great way to supplement all those in-car carbs. Ask the kids to peel the shell off over a ziploc bag or container – or you could do that part for them if they pass it to the front.

Ham or poultry, such as chicken or turkey, are ideal for cutting into cubes to eat as protein-packed finger food.

Mini salami

Mini salami is great for a salty umami hit and again can be bought individually wrapped.

Buy mini salami here

Being less juicy, bananas are also a less messy fruit option.

For the younger ones, don’t forget to cut grapes in half as they’re a choking hazard.

Apples & pears

Pears and apples are also among the least juicy fruit choices and require no prep at all.

Dried fruits

Dried fruit is one of the best foods to take on a road trip, and there are so many kinds available. As well as ever-popular options like raisins and apricots, there are freeze-dried fruits and dried fruit slices too. Plus fruit bars, roll-ups and other options that may seem more like a sweet treat than a healthy alternative!

Buy kids’ dried fruit packs here

Lots of kids will happily eat cucumber, and you can either cut it up or buy mini ones that are ready to munch on.

Sweet or bell peppers are often popular with children, especially in the case of the sweeter, milder varieties. You can either buy tiny ones or slice them up.

Many children love the sweet taste and bright orange color of a carrot. Buy baby ones, or cut them into sticks.

Sugar snap peas often appeal to kids, and they’re also one of the least messy veggies around!

Some children do like the savory flavor of celery, and it’s simple to slice up into pieces or fingers.

Cheerios come in family sized bozes or individual pots, and are also available in a range of flavors.

Buy Cheerios here

Froot Loops

Kelloggs’ Froot Loops come in small pots or as bars, as well as in the usual bigger boxes.

Buy Froot Loops here

Chex come in various flavors and are ideal for packing into snack containers.

Buy Chex here

As with Chex, Kix come in a range of flavor options.

Buy Kix here

Variety cereal

Kids’ multipacks of cereal comes with lots of little packs they can munch on in the car. The Kellogg’s variety packs contain cereals such as Apple Jacks, Mini Wheats and Frosted Flakes, and come in boxes or even small bags or pots of Tiger Paws, Raisin Bran, Pops and more.

Buy Kellogg’s Variety cereal here

Other non-perishable foods

Cereal bars.

Granola bars are normally the best option here, as they contain slow-release sources of energy like oats. They also tend to be lower in sugar than other kinds of cereal bar.

Buy granola bars here

Fig Newtons

Fig Newtons also make great snack bars for kids on the road.

Buy Fig Newtons here

Kids’ snack bars

There are all kinds of kids’ snack bars available, from fruit-filled ones to cereals drizzled with chocolate.

Buy kids’ snack bars here

Energy balls

Energy balls are usually packed with goodness, and make very easy foods to take on a road trip. Great for adults and kids’ snack attacks during the journey.

Buy energy balls here

Trail mix is a great compromise, as there are little goodies in there to tempt the kids. As long as they actually eat the nuts, seeds or dried fruit as well as the sweets!

Buy trail mix here

Graham crackers

These come in so many shapes, flavors and sizes to suit every kid (and grown-up), and they contain fibre as well as energy.

Buy graham crackers here

Rice crackers

As in-car snacks go these are pretty good – and often gluten-free too.

Buy rice crackers here

Savory crackers

There are various multipacks of savory crackers. Love Corn make packs with four different savory flavors, while Nabisco offer boxes packed with two types of Ritz plus Cheese Nips and Wheat Thins.

Buy savory crackers here

Pretzels also come in handy snack packs and a range of flavours and shapes.

Buy pretzels here

Individual bags of nuts make a good savory snacking alternative to potato chips.

Buy nut packs here

Mostly it’s made from beef, but some dried meat strips are made using other products like pork, turkey or even salmon.

Buy jerky here

Savory treats

Pirate’s booty.

A little better for kids than standard potato chips, as these are baked cheesy snacks.

Buy Pirate’s Booty here

Goldfish are also baked instead of fried, making them a little healthier.

Buy Goldfish here

Not so good for you, maybe, but it is a vacation! Get the kids to eat these less crumbly potato chips over the carton to minimize the mess.

Buy Pringles here

Sweet treats

Lollies don’t only make small sweet treats, they can also be good to suck on if you’re going up and down hills as it can help stop kids’ ears from popping.

Buy lollipops here

What kid – or adult – can resist a mini pack of Haribo Gold Bears, Mini Rainbow Frogs or a tube of Mega Roulette?

Buy Haribo here

Which food for road trips will make it onto your road trip food list?

What will you choose as the best food for a road trip? There are lots of healthy and tasty options to pick from, and sometimes it’s easier to snack as you go rather than sticking to regular mealtimes.

We hope this list of road trip food ideas has given you some inspiration regarding healthy snacks for traveling, road trip lunch ideas and road trip snacks for adults and kids.

Even just a little forward planning can make all the difference when it comes to good food for long journeys taken in the car as a family!

If you liked this guide, why not check out our Disney cost calculator , best hiking boots under $100 or list of free printable road trip games ?

Christine is a Disney World annual pass holder and overall Disney expert and fanatic. She often visits the Disneylands around the world naming Disneyland Paris her favorite. To continue reading, click more about me .

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10 Clever Flight Hacks for A Better Travel Experience

• In the City / Travel Gear

Although some airlines do a better job than others, we all know that airline meals aren’t going to be your favorite meals (including if you’re flying first class). Even when meals were free, they were barely edible. Well, we’ve discovered some in-flight hacks to help keep your belly happy while cruising to your next destination.

10 CLEVER TRAVEL HACKS FOR A BETTER IN-FLIGHT DINING EXPERIENCE

1. collapsible water bottle.

Any empty water bottle will do, but we always travel with our favorite collapsible water bottle . These are the best travel water bottles we tested on the road. You can fill up at a water fountain after you pass through security, or if you have access to a lounge, fill it with anything you have there! You can even ask your flight attendant to fill your bottle for you if they are not low on their supplies. Once you arrive at your destination, you have a convenient bottle to refill for all your adventures, too.

2. Foodie Spice Kit

This is a great way to remedy any meal on your travels, which includes your airline meals. If you don’t want to pay the high price tag for the pretty packaging, you can pick up one of these and pour in your own favorite spices from home instead. Or if DIY is your thing, you can even put together your own ultralight spice kit !

3. Sriracha 2 Go

What I think is even better than a mobile spice kit is my mobile sriracha! Everything is better with Sriracha, right?! Okay, maybe not everything, but most things can be vastly improved. This is my favorite way to make a less-than-average meal decent, and these travel-sized Sriracha bottles  are the perfect way to take sriracha on the go. If you’re not a fan of Sriracha, you can still use the bottles for your other favorite condiments.

4. Edible Souvenir

What better way is there to prolong your trip than bringing on an edible souvenir? Whether it’s a snack, sandwich, or baked goods, pick up some yummy local eats to enjoy on the flight home. The photo above shows one of our favorite banh mi sandwiches in Atlanta paired with our Sriracha2go. I already stress out about not being able to eat through all my food options. If you have a short trip, this is one way you can fit in one more meal.

In whatever you’re packing, make sure you’re following the TSA rules. You can carry on up to 3.4 ounces (100 ml) of liquid or gel-like foods: Creamy dips and spreads (cheeses, peanut butter, etc.), jams, salad dressing, salsa, soups, wine, liquor, and beer.

5. Packing Healthy Snacks

As much as I love the peanuts and pretzels that airlines have to offer, nothing is worse than feeling bloated or dehydrated on a plane. Pack some healthy snacks to enjoy and be the envy of others. I always like to pack away some Kind Bars to keep my hanger at bay, and lately, we’ve been obsessed with these . Veggies and fruits are also great and require little prep. If you bring fruits, try to get firm fruits as they travel better (think cherries, plums, apples, and pineapple chunks). Get a collapsible food container , so it doesn’t take up much space when you’re done! Oh, and don’t forget, if you’re on an international flight, you must finish those fruits before you land!

6. Cup Noodles

These cup noodles are our favorite and make for a great meal alternative. It’s not the most nutritious, but tastes delicious compared to what you’re offered on an airline! All you’ll need is to ask for hot water from the stewardess, and you’re good to go. Don’t forget to bring a plastic fork or disposable chopsticks.

7. Bring Your Own Tea Bags

Bring a few bags of your favorite tea to enjoy on the flight. It’s especially great if the flight is cold! We’ve been doing this on all our recent travels, especially since tea bags take up so little space.  This is my favorite one lately. I may have gone a little overboard on this flight:

8. Bring Your Own Bar

If you enjoy a good cocktail, check out these Carry On Cocktails . You have your choice of Old Fashioned, Gin & Tonic , or Moscow Mule , and each kit includes everything you need to mix up two cocktails. You will still need to get the alcohol and mixers on the flight, which adds up to one pricey drink, but this steps up your alcohol game. If you try to sneak on some of your own booze in 3 oz bottles or ones you buy in the airport, know that it is under federal regulation that you can’t drink alcohol that wasn’t served to you by a flight attendant.

9. Freeze Your Drinks to Bring With You

Did you know you can bring your own drinks on and through TSA as long as it’s frozen solid? We haven’t tried this yet, and the catch is that it has to be completely frozen solid, but it’s been confirmed to be true on the TSA blog .

10. Pack Some Wet Wipes

This helps when you’re on an inside seat and don’t want to bother other people. You can also use them to wipe down your trays and seats if you are a germaphobe like me. You can also wipe down your face and body to help you stay refreshed during your flight. They also always come in handy at your travel destination too.

BONUS. Clean Teeth

Don’t get stuck on a flight with slimy and icky teeth. Pack a portable soft toothbrush , a small container of toothpaste, and floss so that you can brush after any meal or right after you board. We’ve even used wisps before, but they don’t do as thorough of a job.

How many of these have you tried? What in-flight dining hacks are we missing? What kind of snacks/food do you like eating on a plane?

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70 Travel Hacks That Will Change Your Travel Game Forever

With 57 countries under my belt and more than a decade of traveling regularly, I think it’s safe to say that I’m an expert in the field. I’ve made every mistake you could imagine—missed flights, lost baggage, exploding hair irons—but with each disastrous experience, I’ve grown a little bit wiser, and a LOT savvier when it comes to traveling like a seasoned pro.

These travel hacks for flying, packing, saving money, getting hotel upgrades and more are the secrets I swear by. I hope they’ll help make your next trip pleasurable, memorable, and stress-free.

70 Travel Hacks That Will Blow Your Mind

1. use my “contact lens case” hack for makeup and skincare products ..

This is one of my best space saving packing hacks. People tend to take up unnecessary room in their toiletry bags by bringing full-sized products.

Here’s the trick: put your foundation, moisturizer, eye cream , and any other liquid products into contact lens cases. Every inch counts!

2. Be strategic in your seat selection when booking a flight.  

There’s nothing worse than getting stuck in a seat that doesn’t recline, or ending up in a row next to the lavatory with people hovering over you for the entire flight. I avoid these kind of mishaps by checking SeatGuru before I choose my seat on flights.

Occasionally, I’ll even choose a flight based on the type of plane that SeatGuru tells me I’ll be flying on. The website and app shows you photos of the plane’s interior so you’ll know in advance whether you’re booking an outdated 747, or a brand spanking new plane.

Plus, it gives you warnings about seats that have potential issues, like limited recline or a misaligned window.

3. Pack your own DIY amenity kit for long-haul flights.

I loooove the amenity kits that you get when you fly First or Business, but since I don’t always have that luxury, I decided to start making my own. My “DIY kit” stays in my carry-on bag at all times, and includes a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, sheet masks, moisturizer, hand cream, eye masks , lip balm, and socks.

4. Avoid cankles by wearing compression socks.

They’re basically Spanx for your calves and feet, because feeling swollen after a long-haul flight is the WORST.

5. Consider choosing an “alternate destination” when you search.

If the city you’re flying in or out of isn’t a main hub, consider flying into a bigger city and connecting or finding a flight (or other mode of transportation) out of that city.

Not only will you save money, but you have the potential to earn more mileage points.

6. Download the Google Translate app to help with language barriers.

You can use it to take photos of text in another language, and it will translate the words in real time. (I have a separate blog post featuring the best travel apps for savvy jetsetters , which you should check out as well!)

7. Use packing cubes.

Another space saving packing hack that I swear by? Packing cubes! I truthfully thought these were a scam until I tried them out for myself.

They not only compress your items to give you additional space, but they also help keep you organized—I use a small one for socks and underwear, a medium-sized one for tops, another medium-sized one for comfortable walking shoes and sneakers , and a large one for jeans , pants, and dresses.

8. Look out for price errors.

Often times, there will be glitches on airline or third party sites that offer a ridiculous low fare. Sign up to these sites to keep an eye on them. But know that you will have to act quick, as these companies will typically fix the fare as soon as they catch it. Here are some great resources to keep an eye on for low fare deals.

• Scott’s Cheap Flights (or Jack’s Flight Club for UK-based people)
• The Flight Deal
• Secret Flying (if you’re based out of Europe)
• Holiday Pirates
• Airfarewatchdog.com 
• FlyerTalk Mileage Run (discussion board)

* Bonus Tip: Fill your social media with these sleuths by following them on Instagram and Twitter!

9. Take advantage of generous credit card offers.

The greatest travel hack of all time? Credit cards and points. Open up a credit card that has a sign-up bonus (assuming you can be responsible enough to pay your bills!), and transfer the points to an airline for a pricey international flight.

Check out my full step-by-step guide to using points and miles for free travel if you haven’t already!

10. Be strategic with flight cancellations.

If you book a nonrefundable ticket and your plans change or you know you won’t be traveling on that flight—do not cancel the ticket until the last possible moment.

Or…just don’t show up. Here’s why: in the rare case that there’s a flight cancellation or schedule change, your nonrefundable ticket could entitle you to a credit or refund. Had you cancelled the ticket, you wouldn’t be entitled to anything.

11. Learn how to avoid long airport security lines.

TSA-precheck, Global Traveler, and Clear have been an absolute gamechanger for me, and if you travel more than a few times a year, they are absolutely something worth investing in. If you’re not familiar:

• TSA Precheck enables you to use a separate line for domestic (US) flights, and you won’t be required to take off your shoes or take out your laptop.
• Global Traveler is for international flights and (as far as I know) is for the US only. When you’re returning to the US, you use a machine that scans your passport rather than having to wait in line at customs.
• Clear lets you scan your fingertips at security and then get escorted to the front of line at airports where it is offered.

12. Take a hydration multiplier for long flights.

While everyone will tell you to “drink as much water as possible” and “try to stay hydrated” on a long-haul flights, the reality is that if you’re drinking a liter of water on a plane, you’re going to find yourself getting up to go to the bathroom repeatedly.

My hack for this is to use Liquid IV. It’s a “hydration multiplier” that hydrates you 2-3 times faster than water alone. You pour the little packet of powder into your water bottle, shake it up, and then drink.

It tastes pretty similar to Gatorade (the lemon/lime is my preferred flavor) and will keep you hydrated without sending you to use the restroom every 30 seconds.

13. Keep track of itinerary ideas in Google Docs.

I use Google Docs for all of my itineraries—especially when I’m planning a girls trip and there are multiple people involved. I’ll share the link with everyone I’m traveling with to make it more collaborative. It’s also where I keep a running list of recommendations from people for the destination that I’m visiting.

14. Challenge yourself not to check a bag.

Avoid lost baggage nightmares by packing carry-on only for trips under a week. In need of luggage that actually fits a lot of stuff? Here’s a list of the best carry-on bags that help save space with packing.

15. Order a “special meal” in advance of a long-haul flight.

Most major airlines will offer the option to order a special meal when you book your flight—these include vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, kosher, vegan, low fat, and sometimes even low sodium options.

People who place orders for “special meals” will always get served first, so if you’re hoping to catch some z’s on the flight, you’ll have more time to sleep while everyone else is waiting for their food to arrive.

16. Save local currency from the country you’re visiting as a souvenir.

My husband and I started doing this many years ago, and now we have what we jokingly call a “world bank” at home. It’s a cool alternative to buying a dumb keychain or t-shirt you’ll never wear.

17. Create a framed collage of foreign currency from your trips after you get home.

I often find foreign currency to be incredibly beautiful. We’ve taken some of the best-looking bills from various places we’ve visited, and framed them.

18. Do the same with hotel room keys, airline tickets, and baggage tags.

You can use a place like Framebridge to arrange and frame them for you—they’ll even send you a pre-paid envelope to mail in your items.

19. Talk to taxi drivers.

Often, a simple taxi ride from the airport to your hotel will turn into an impromptu city tour if you ask the right questions.

20. Build your itinerary using Go ogle Maps Trip Planner.

This might be the greatest travel hack of all time. Did you know that there’s a FREE tool within Google Maps that you can use to create an entire itinerary for your next trip? It’s called Google Maps Trip Planner and it’s incredible.  

21. Don’t exchange money at the airport.

Wait and go to an ATM near your hotel for better exchange rates.

22. Take advantage of layovers as often as possible.

Sometimes, I’ll even choose flights with 12+ hour layovers as a way to see another city for a day.

23. Never miss another photo opp.

Take photos in “burst” mode so you don’t need to worry about missing the shot.

24. Carry a photocopy of your passport in your wallet.

Just in case.

25. Speaking of wallets… invest in a good travel wallet.

Trying to keep track of boarding passes, passport photocopies, foreign currency, and receipts can get a bit messy if you’re trying to stuff everything into your regular, everyday wallet.

The best way to stay organized while you’re heading out of town is to use an inexpensive but chic travel wallet that has additional compartments for travel-related items. 

26. Use a travel agent or tour operator for special trips or multi-city itineraries.

They can often get you better rates and preferential treatment at hotels.

27. Become a points and miles pro.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—I’ve learned everything I know about points, miles, and travel hacks from my friend Brian Kelly, aka The Points Guy . Browse through his site for all the secrets.

28. Easily share photos with friends/family.

Start a shared album with your the people you’re traveling with at the beginning of a trip, so you’re able to easily exchange photos.

29. Get the experience of a luxury hotel without staying at one.

Dying to stay at a fancy hotel but can’t afford the nightly rate? Pop in to the lobby bar for drinks instead.

30. Plan your trip during “shoulder season” to take advantage of better hotel rates and less crowds.

Shoulder season = the period between high and low season, when the weather is still great but the destination is less busy. In places like Positano , Santorini , and Mykonos for example, shoulder season is generally April through the middle of June, and September through October.

31. Avoid jetlag by getting onto the local time zone as soon as you board the plane.

If it’s technically morning in the destination you’re going to when you board the plane, do NOT go to sleep—even if it’s midnight where you’re leaving from. If you work on adjusting to the time zone while on the flight, you’ll have a better chance of battling jet lag when you arrive.

32. Hire a local guide during the first day of your trip in a foreign city.

It’ll help you get the lay of the land. Then ask your guide for non-touristy recommendations to hit up during the rest of your trip. Also: if you’re traveling with a big group, DEFINITELY hire a guide. It takes the pressure off of one person being put in charge of the itinerary.

One of the best things I’ve ever done was hire a guide for my five-day trip to Tokyo since I wanted to see as many things as I could in a short period of time.

33. Use a sheet mask on long flights to replenish the moisture back into your skin.

I love using these sheet masks on the plane. Instead of looking haggard when you land, your skin looks super glowy and fresh.

34. Hire a passport/visa expediting service if you’re in a pinch.

I used a company called “It’s Easy” to renew my passport when I was super tight on time, and they were able to get it to me within a few days.

35. Keep a “packing checklist” in your phone.

You can refer back to it every time you’re heading out of town. I have an example of my travel packing checklist here .

36. Always keep your boarding pass.

I usually keep mine until I see that my miles have posted on my frequent flyer account—if you end up having to claim missing miles from your airline, you’ll need to have your ticket number and confirmation number as a reference. Which leads me to my next point…

37. Create a frequent flyer account on every airline you travel with.

There’s no reason not to. If you don’t you’ll be missing out on valuable miles that could potentially be put toward your next trip. I personally have FF account with: American, Delta, JetBlue, United, Cathay Pacific/Asia Miles, British Airways/Avios.

38. Keep your iPhone photos organized.

Save all of your favorite trip photos into an album in iPhoto so that you can find them quickly.

39. Turn your travel photos into cool animations using free apps.

One of my favorite ways to jazz up my photos following a trip is by using apps like KiraKira and Enlight Pixeloop. (For example, I have a little tutorial that shows you how to add falling snow to your photos in 30 seconds.)

40. Use a pants hanger to ensure blinds stay closed over night.

There’s nothing worse than waking up at the crack of dawn on vacation because of a small gap in the hotel drapes. I avoid this by using a hanger with trouser clips to secure the two window shades together.

41. To find cheap flights, consider looking beyond the obvious sites like Kayak and Expedia.

If you set the tab or filter to “everywhere” or “anywhere” and are flexible with your dates and travel time, you can find really inexpensive flights and even earn extra miles if you fly an extra leg.

A few of the best “deals” sites are:

• Sky Scanner

42. Always ask for an upgrade.

Unless you’re on an unlimited budget or celebrating a special occasion, never book the best room at a hotel—but always ask for an upgrade. I did this on a recent trip to Maui , as well as in the Maldives and St Barths , and totally lucked out!

Make sure to join the hotel’s loyalty program before arriving (they’re free), since they usually honor those requests for members as long as a higher room category is available.

43. Sometimes, the budget airlines have even cheaper flights on their sites.

Also, if you sign up for their newsletter and loyalty clubs, you get added perks and insider info. A few that comes to mind are Norwegian, Frontier, Southwest, and Spirit.

44. Be a “country counter.”

Download the “Been” app to keep track of the countries and states you’ve visited.

45. Get a more authentic “local” experience with your accommodation.

Using sites like Air BnB, VRBO, Booking and others gives you the opportunity to live more locally and at a significantly discounted rate. In fact, sometimes the house share experience is more personalized and luxurious.

46. Book a private room at a hostel to save money.

If hostels are an option (check HostelWorld.com), you can book private rooms for a really cheap rate. This is a great way to 1) save money 2) meet new people (perhaps people you could room with in another country on future trips.)

47. Always have a back-up power source.

Charge an external battery before you travel, and have it with you on the plane in case the seats don’t have outlets.

48. Compare flight prices using Airfare Matrix.

AirFare Matrix is something travel agents use. It is a Google tool and allows you to do some great price comparison without the third party interjection (that can sometimes cause you to pay more if you’re not searching in an incognito browser).

You can’t book directly from the site, but can use the codes as a source to get the cheapest price when you call an agent, or even the airline.

49. Try toggling to a different “home” country when searching for flights to get cheaper rates.

If you’re looking to fly a specific airline, set your country (usually in the top right hand corner or in the website’s footer) to one that has a good FX rate (of the countries available, of course).

This will allow you to view and purchase the flights in another currency, and potentially save big! It will take some time and some trial and error, but if you have the time, it’s worth it!

50. Mark your bag fragile.

It’ll be handled properly and make it to the top of the pile, ensuring your luggage comes out in the first batch!

51. Before you pay for an upgraded cabin, see if the flight is full.

If not, put yourself on the upgrade list as soon as you can. Also, offering to get bumped from a flight and wait for the next flight could give you leverage to negotiate a better seat (and maybe even money or points).

52. Use FourSquare for Wifi.

You can find wifi passwords on FourSquare for restaurants, cafes and other places (just be careful, obviously, as not all of these are secure.)

53. Turn on “Private Browser” when searching for flights. 

Prices do, in fact, fluctuate based on the cookies in your web browser and how many searches you’ve performed for a specific destination. Which is why searching for flights in a private browser (also known as “incognito mode”) is an absolute must.

If you’re using Google Chrome, you can enable Incognito mode by hitting Command + SHIFT + N.

If you’re using Firefox or IE, you can enable a private browser by hitting COMMAND + SHIFT + P.

54. Bring an oversize scarf on the plane that doubles as a blanket.

Then wear it as a chic cape during your trip.

55. Save on parking by pairing up with a local.

Garage Pointer is a website that connects you with people who own parking spaces and are willing to rent them (temporarily) to visitors. As of now Garage Pointer is only available in the U.S.

56. Rent a car…from a local.

Ready for the best car travel hack? Look into whether or not Turo is available in your destination. The app and website connects you with people who own cars and are willing to rent them out for a fee that is (usually) much less than traditional car rental.

57. Overwhelmed with what to pack? There’s an app for that.

PackPoint helps you determine what to pack based on where you are going and the length of your trip. It checks the weather in your upcoming destination and then provides a detailed packing list for you. (I would also recommend using my “what to wear” guide if you’re packing for trip to Europe in the winter .)

58. Use a service to ship your clothes ahead of your trip.

Sure, this might not be for everyone, but did you know there was a service that stores, packs, ships and cleans your clothes prior to trips? It’s a company called DUFL . While it’s definitely targeted to a very specific market, DUFL is an incredible concept.

You send them a capsule wardrobe (consisting of clothes you need for every trip, like business travel), and they’ll store the clothes in a “virtual closet,” which you can access through the app prior to your departure. They then send the clothes to your hotel ahead of your arrival, and collect them to dry clean and store when you leave.

59. Use FlightAware to track your flights.

The website and app allows you to track your flight (or the flights of loved ones) in real time. It’ll also keep you up to date on important info, like whether the incoming flight is delayed, or if the flight had to be rerouted for any reason.

60. Invest in a good adapter/plug converter.

I like this one because it works in all countries, and also has USB ports.

61. Book tours and experiences through AirBnB.

Did you know that Airbnb can be a great resource for things other than accommodations? Over the past few years, the company has expanded to include incredible local experiences and tours.

62. Wear a travel outfit that looks super chic—but it secretly comfortable.

I have an entire blog post dedicated to this (linked above!) but in a nutshell, I’m a big fan of looking put together when I travel. However, I also wouldn’t be caught dead wearing jeans on a long flight.

There are a few little tricks I use to turn otherwise sloppy outfits into something that you’d be confident walking into a luxury hotel wearing.

The most important thing? A lightweight fringed scarf (which doubles as a blanket mid-flight) and a leather or denim jacket. 

63. Invest in a great pair of noise-cancelling headphones.

We’ve all been stuck next to a screaming child or chronic sniffler on long flights, and the experience can truly get your trip started off on the wrong foot.

I truly can not tell you how much of a game-changer noise-cancelling headphones are. While everyone else around you is having a meltdown over not being able to sleep or concentrate, you’ll be in your own little zen world.

Pro tip : if you don’t want to spring for the fanciest new technology, buy older or discontinued models of Bose headphones on Amazon for a fraction of the price for latest models.

64. Leverage special occasions for perks.

Celebrating a big anniversary or planning a trip for your honeymoon ? Be sure to let the hotel know in advance. When my husband and I went to Thailand and the Maldives for our honeymoon, we mentioned it to each property that we booked, and ended up with upgrades, bottles of champagne sent to the room, and other extra special perks from hotel staff.

65. Use your h otel’s shower cap to protect your toiletries from exploding.

Nervous about your liquids exploding in your toiletry bag on the flight home? Wrap them in the shower cap provided to you in the room. And if you don’t have a shower cap: use the plastic liner that comes with your ice bucket. 

66. Download the Revolut app.

The popular European banking app recently launched in the U.S., and it allows users to exchange currencies from 55,000+ surcharge-free ATMs nationwide. 

67. Seek itinerary inspiration through social media.

Use Instagram to inspire your itinerary. Browse through hashtags and geotags to see where people took gorgeous photos—and then go to those places! Alternatively, you can google things like “ The Best Instagram Spots in NYC ” or “ The Most Instagrammable Places in London ” for fun ideas.

68. Use AirHelp to get compensated for flight delays or cancelled flights.

We’ve all been there: you miss a connection because of a delayed flight, or your flight get inexplicably cancelled, and you know that the airline has to owe you some kind of compensation.

The problem is that actually getting what you’re owed can be a logistical nightmare that involves long wait times, endless phone calls, and unanswered emails. AirHelp essentially plays the middleman by acting on your behalf.

They do charge a fee (which is a percentage of what you’re ultimately compensated) but as someone who has used the service successfully, I can say that it is VERY much worth saving you the headache.

Plus, Airhelp knows exactly what you’re entitled to based on their expertise, so you’ll often end up getting more than you would have received on your own.

69. Do your souvenir research ahead of a trip.

One thing I always do before I travel is a bit of research about the most unique gifts and souvenirs to buy in the destination I’m heading to. Looking this up ahead of time might top you off to some really cool new boutiques, and it will also guarantee that you don’t end up at an airport gift shop wasting your money on a meaningless memento.

For example, this list of the best things to buy in Paris contains a ton of “hidden gems” within the city you might never have known about otherwise. There’s also something extremely satisfying about going on the hunt for a specific unique item—and then finding it! 

70. Keep a note in your phone filled with travel quotes .

For those times that you desperately want to post an Instagram photo, but you’re at a loss for a caption.

Did you find this list helpful? Are there any travel hacks you love that I didn’t include? Drop them in the comments below!

Thank you to nicole cueto aka @thecubancarrie for her contributions to this piece.

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If you’re traveling with an infant/toddler; bookmark, screenshot AND print the rules for taking things like breastmilk/formula/snacks through security as well as the policy about early boarding for families. It helps to be prepared for any hiccups. And even if you just fly once or twice a year with a child, get TSA Precheck. Your child under 12 can go through the line with you, which makes things SO much faster.

Lindsay Silberman

this is SUCH a good tip (and one i would never have thought of!) thanks for sharing!

I always get a seat on the plane forward of the wings. Any turbulence the plane encounters dieting the flight is less bumpy in the front half.

Charles Loes

these hacks help me a lot thanks for such guidance.

I always get a seat on the plane forward of the wings. Any turbulence the plane encounters during the flight is less bumpy in the front half.

Helen Gaskin

Really a complete guide has never seen such stuff there. I am all the way from Pinterest and your pin is best to attract anyone. And guide too.

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• Camping Food Hacks

31 Clever Camping Food Hacks (From Experts) | Camping Storage and Packing Ideas, Coffee Tips, Meal Prepping, Cool Gadgets You Will Love

By Sherry Trautman

31 Clever Camping Food Hacks | Travel-Mi.com

When it comes to camping meals, we love cooking easy , delicious and filling meals your family or large groups will love.  

But we've got some tricks to make it easier...

• Camping storage hacks and ideas, meal ideas, snacks, coffee making tips, meal prepping, and cool can't-live-without gadgets you will love!

A few of our delicious meal ideas require no fire. There are also several "no cooking" meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

We even have some cooking ideas for kids so they can participate in the fun!

How cool is this?!...

A few avid camping bloggers from all over the world and I put together a helpful list of our favorite camping food hacks to help you plan your next camping trip. (So you don't just have to read my nut ball ideas)

• Oh, and check out our camping necessities and cool camping gadgets throughout this post! 

We hope you try our camping food hacks while staying at  Michigan's campgrounds or wherever your travels may lead you!

Quick Reference Table of Contents:

• Pill Packs for Spices
• Mason Jar Uses
• Coffee is a Must!
• Fruits and Vegetables
• Meal Prep, Storage Ideas, Creative Breakfast Idea
• Travel Kettles: Boil Water, Coffee, Milk!
• Meal Planning and Prep is Key

Camping and Hiking Tips

• Let's Talk Coolers

Campfire Corn and Potatoes

• Camping Necessities
• Camping Food Ideas
• Need Travel Inspiration?

Use Pill Packs for Spices!

By  Kate Comer | Outdoor Exploring

When preparing for our camping trips we always pack spices to be used with our food.

Spices and seasonings bring a delicious flavor to food and can take a camping meal from boring to something the whole family wants to devour.

Space is always a commodity on camping trips, so we use stackable pill packs to keep our spices in.

It is important to not just put any spices in, make sure you pack the spices that will go with the food that you are taking on the trip.

For instance if you are having a steak, mix up a steak rub before the trip and then there's no prep on the camping trip.

• For our family I like to keep one stack as family friendly and the other for hotter spices. That way there's no mix ups! 

Use a sticker to clearly mark what each pack contains and don't forget salt.

Prepare Your Food & Store in Mason Jars Before Leaving

By Jarod Heil | Ramble Around the World

One of the best things about camping is cooking food over an open flame , barbecuing or setting up a personal camping burner set and enjoying a tastefully seasoned, well-cooked meal under the stars or with the daylight slowly dissipating to a colorful sunset.

But one of the worst things about camping is dealing with the cleanup of cutting boards, knives and other cooking utensils you used to prepare the food — especially when there's no running water in sight and you don't want to waste clean drinking water to do the dishes.

Properly cleaning the food prep station by the Leave No Trace standards is a tall task to undertake. So just don't try it.

Instead, I prepare and season all my food before leaving for the campsite, store them in mason jars and keep them in my trusty RTIC cooler .

By taking steps to prepare all my food beforehand , I never forget to bring herbs, spices and olive oil because my food is already seasoned with them.

• I never have to clean up any cutting boards or utensils caked with raw chicken or turkey. Instead, my hands hardly touch raw meat at all and I can easily throw on a five-star meal after 14 miles of hiking.
• When the ice melts in the cooler and creates a pool of water, I don't have to worry about that water seeping into my food because the air-tight mason jars keep everything out — and keeps the food fresh.

As someone who's been camping almost every weekend for three months, preparing food beforehand and storing it in mason jars cuts the hassle and ensures I always have a great meal to look forward to after a long day of hiking.

How freakin' cool is this inflatable couch from Amazon? So many colors, super cheap, use it at the beach, music festivals, camping and at home in the back yard with the kids! (Perfect for star gazing!)

Don't Forget the Coffee (or Cappuccino!)

By Lotte | Recommended by Lotte from  Gezond Weekmenu

If there is one thing I can't live without, it's my morning coffee. Over the years, I have perfected the art of making my own cappuccino while out camping. You only need a couple of items to create the perfect camping cappuccino: 

• A percolator
• A portable milk frother  
• A (portable) stove with a tank of gas  
• Ground coffee   
• A bit of patience... 

For coffee addicts like myself, these items are a must-have on any camping trip (and camping food hacks list)... Luckily, they don't take up much space and don't cost much . In any case, here is how to make the perfect camping cappuccino.

If you have never used a percolator, check out this instruction movie  to see how it's done. It's not hard, it just takes a bit of time. You will definitely want to add it to your list of favorite camping food hacks! When your coffee is done, heat up some milk and get out your milk frother. Froth away until you are happy with the amount of foam. Pour the coffee in a fancy reusable bamboo cup and add the milk.

Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your cappuccino with hopefully a lovely view from your campground. 

• For the perfect percolator coffee , choose a medium roast. Otherwise, the coffee will be a bit bitter. Also, try to find ground coffee specifically intended for a percolator.

You can use regular ground coffee, but this is often a bit too fine and you'll end up with a bit of sludge on the bottom of the percolator. Not a huge issue but if you can find a brand like Lavazza or similar, go for it, it will make your freshly brewed cappuccino taste even better.   Regarding the milk, whole milk gives the creamiest foam but if you're watching your calorie intake skimmed milk works as well.

• If you are lactose intolerant, you can also use soy milk, coconut milk, oat milk, or almond milk. Just know that these don't create as much foam as regular milk.

Bring Lots of Fresh Fruits and Veggies! (mmm...Avocado!)

By Chris | Punta Cana Travel Blog

As vegetarians , it is always important for us to bring fresh fruits and vegetables on a trip, especially as we don’t like processed food.

Products we always take for camping include apples and mangos for breakfast ( quite sturdy and don’t get mashed that easily in a backpack ) and cucumber, carrots and tomatoes (among others) for savory lunch and dinner dishes.

• Nuts and raisins can also be part of flavorful fresh salads.

Our signature “dish” for camping is fresh bakery bread, garnished with sliced avocados and tomatoes, finished off with splashes of lime. That’s super easy to prepare and doesn't require any cooking tools – which is especially suitable for beginners if you don’t want to buy and carry all the equipment when going camping for the first time.

Especially the avocados here in the Dominican Republic, where we often go on remote hiking trips to discover waterfalls , crystal-clear rivers and remote beaches, are super delicious, but they should be available in your home country as well. To top it off, take some salt and pepper to give it an extra dash of flavor. For breakfast , we usually have granola with yogurt, sliced apples and mangos – that’s quick to prepare, healthy to eat, gives you energy for the day and can be enjoyed perfectly while watching the sunrise on the campsite (or the morning sun if you slept too long ).

Camping Food Hacks: Meal Prep, Storage Ideas and a Creative Breakfast Idea

Camping Food Hacks by  Bec |  Travels in Gippsland

Camping in Australia can be epic and there are so many things that you have to consider but there is one thing you can't go without on a camping trip. Food!

Whether you are going camping for a couple of days or even a few weeks here are some of our top camping food hacks for taking food camping.

• We freeze our first two nights meals normally a spaghetti or a casserole for easy reheating on the camp stove or over the fire. It also helps keep items cold in the esky ( portable cooler ). 
• We freeze the meals in large zip lock bags that we can reuse for food scraps if there are no bins at the campsite.
• I freeze a loaf of bread and take a fresh one to eat when we get there. The frozen one will defrost, last a couple of extra days and not get squashed!
• Sometimes I buy a supermarket made coleslaw (will last a couple of days if kept cold) and take some potatoes. You can wrap the potatoes in foil , cook them in the coals of the fire and then put butter and coleslaw on them for an easy meal.
• Freeze small bottles of water instead of buying a lot of ice for the esky. Not only do they last longer than ice you can also use them to drink as they melt . It also stops everything from getting wet in the esky.
• If we are bush camping we take a tin of ready-made coffee and milk with us. You just add hot water to the mix for your daily fix rather than having to keep milk cold. 
• To make an awesome breakfast make a hole in the middle of a piece of bread, butter the bread, place it on the hotplate and then crack an egg into the hole. Cook some bacon on the hotplate as well and you have a great breakfast!
• Camp ovens are a great way to cook a roast in the coals of your camp fire.

Ever Heard of a Travel Kettle?

By Martina and Jürgen | Places of Juma

One of our favorite items for a perfect camping trip is our  electric travel kettle  for cars .

This little helper is especially practical for long journeys and strenuous excursions with motorhomes, campers and cars. And we love the fact that we don't have to look for a restaurant or a gas stations when we drive somewhere.  

Connected to the cigarette lighter, it boils water in only 10-16 minutes while driving .

Perfect definition of camping food hacks, right?

Electric travel kettles are perfect if you want to make yourself and your family tea, some milk or a hot chocolate along the way.

• Instant noodles, soups and even boiled eggs can be prepared with a good electric travel kettle.

This is really a great thing, especially if you need something warm instead of a sandwich.

For us, a travel kettle makes traveling, but also camping in nature much more easier!

We can recommend the super cool kettle from Spardar. Ingenious here is the digital temperature display and the high-quality, scratch-resistant stainless steel used as material for the inside and outside walls.

Meal Planning and Preparation is Key!

By Susan Gan |  Thrifty After 50 

Doing some basic meal planning and food preparation before going camping is one of our favorite camping food hacks. 

It means that not only are you guaranteed to have a relaxing holiday but you will also get to enjoy some really tasty meals as well. 

There are lots of ways that you can pre-prepare food that will save time and mess:

•  Meat - Purchase fresh meat, chop it into the appropriate size at home, place the required portions into a zip lock bag then freeze. This is also the perfect time to add any marinades.
• Vegetables - Save time and water by washing your vegetables in advance. Chop them into the appropriate size and place in a bag ready to use. TIP: Place all the vegetables that you would add to the recipe at the same time in the same bag.
• Herbs & Spices - Measure in advance. If adding several to the same recipe then store in the same bag.

Label all the bags clearly.

For my favorite Pumpkin Risotto recipe , I pre-roast the pumpkin and place it in a bag then freeze. I also chop up the onion and garlic and place together in a bag with some olive oil then freeze. All other items I measure the ingredients in advance to ensure I have the correct amounts.

By Paulina | Paulina on the Road

There is nothing better than sleeping under the stars , away from the chaos. Camping gear can be one of the  best gifts for outdoorsy women  too. But it becomes a worry when it comes to getting food.

But don't worry, whether you are a camping pro or a novice, here are some camping food hacks that can make your food worries go away. 

Bring hiking snacks with you that are rich in protein to get more energy.

While you are camping, you can't cook a meal again and again. So, it might help if you take something filling and energetic, like eggs.

• You might wonder how to carry eggs . Well, you can break and collect all the eggs in a bottle and bring it with your camping bag. 
• You can take a transportable frying pan for cooking.

For a meal , you can prepare an oatmeal batter and pack it in a zip-bag , easy to cook, and store.

Bring along a box with ice in it to store your battery in a cool place. Place the food with thin packaging in the cooler for effective packing.

Apart from that, you can take shop towels for easy clean-up.

What Kind of Cooler Is the Best?

By Rai | A Rai of Light

Knowing how to keep your food cold while camping could mean the difference in whether the experience is a memorable or miserable one.

For food safety and to prevent any risk of food poisoning , it is recommended that food be stored at a temperature of 40 °F or below.

The most important aspect of temperature control is having the right cooler, with the best ones being well insulated.

Steel and fiber glass coolers are made to keep food chilled for several days.

• Prior to going on the camping or hiking trip be sure to pre-chill the cooler by filling it with some frozen ice packs. 

Crushed ice cools items faster, but block ice is recommended as it lasts longer. Lastly, pack the cooler the right way by ensuring that all regular items are placed on top to avoid opening the cooler too frequently and that any air pockets are filled with an ice pack to prevent cold air from going out.

By Ron | Unearth the Voyage

When cooking things like ears of corn or whole potatoes , tin foil can be all that you need for campfire cooking!

Let's roast corn ...

Simply take the ear of corn, pull down the husk, add a little butter or even some salt and pepper and then fold the cornhusk back up.

Now wrap the entire ear of corn in tin foil and toss it in the fire! It generally speaking only takes a few minutes and the corn will need to be rolled around for even cooking, but that's all there is to it. The butter will melt quickly and then start to steam inside of the cornhusk creating the perfect side to any campfire meal.

Let's roast potatoes...

Potatoes are even easier still. Simply rub a little butter on the outside of the potato. Use a fork to punch plenty of holes in the potato skin, wrap the whole thing in tin foil and toss it in the fire.

Potatoes generally speaking take a bit longer than corn but the size of the fire can help to speed that along.

So...when packing up your supplies for campfire cooking don't forget that roll of tin foil! 

Get the Kids Involved!

They can...

• Wrap potatoes or corn in foil
• Thread vegetables onto skewers
• Sprinkle spices onto meats
• Pull the tops off strawberries for breakfast

Need More Camping Food Ideas?

Camping Necessities! 

If you are camping with a vehicle (not hiking), we have a few helpful recommendations. The griddle is fantastic for so many types of food! Steaks, burgers, pancakes and eggs are a necessity!  Use your griddle over a Coleman stove or a grate.  

Pin This Best Camping Food Hacks Page

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View this post on Instagram SUNFLOWERS!! This glorious field goes on forever! We were giddy to discover it while touring beautiful Sutton's Bay near Traverse City, Michigan. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I climbed up on a ladder to get an awesome birds-eye view! What splendor!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #explore #sunflowers #sunflowerfields #suttonsbay #suttonsbaymi #suttonsbaymichigan #traversecitytourism #traversecity #traversecitymi #traversecitymichigan #Michigan #puremichigan #michigantravel #greatlakesstate #michiganstate #travelingmichigan #greatlakesstateofmind #puremittenpride #michiganders #exploremichigan #puremittigan #northernmichigan #greatlakesstate #greatlakesstateofmind #greatlakeslocals ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #michiganders #onlyinmichigan #puremitten #naturalmitten #thegreatlakesstate A post shared by Michigan Travel+Food Adventure (@travelingmichigan) on Aug 7, 2019 at 5:01am PDT

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Sherry Trautman is a seasoned business owner and a multifaceted content creator, deeply entrenched in the world of travel in Michigan. With her extensive background in writing, editing, photography, marketing, website design, web mastering, social media, and publishing, she is the driving force behind the acclaimed Michigan Travel site "Travel-mi.com." A lifelong Michigander, Sherry's journey began in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan led her to St. Joseph during her formative years, and further to Kalamazoo for her higher education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design and Fine Art from Western Michigan University. Her career initially blossomed in Battle Creek, where she contributed significantly to aviation, marketing, and the art industry. In 2018, Sherry, alongside her husband Chris, embarked on a passionate endeavor with the inception of Travel-MI.com. This venture was not just a business but a full-time commitment to exploring and celebrating the diverse landscapes and communities of Michigan. Together, they tirelessly traverse the state, curating unique experiences, capturing stunning visuals, and weaving engaging narratives that showcase Michigan's rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty. From her early experiences in different Michigander locales to her extensive professional background, Sherry's life and work epitomize a deep-rooted expertise in Michigan travel, making her an authoritative voice in this niche.

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TSA expects record-breaking week for travel for 4th of July holiday weekend

NEWARK, New Jersey (WABC) -- The Fourth of July travel rush is underway as records are expected to be broken over the holiday weekend.

The TSA says they are prepared to screen more than 32 million people through the 8th, which would be a 5.4% increase around this time last year.

The TSA at Newark Airport set a record last Thursday for the most screenings in one day at TSA checkpoints at the airport. Officials say 83,687 people were screened and it was the busiest day ever at a New Jersey airport.

Last Friday was the fourth busiest day for TSA, screening 2.93 million people at airports nationwide.

While Newark International Airport has already seen its busiest day, it comes on the heels of an air traffic controller shortage causing significant backups and an FAA ground stop at Newark Airport earlier this week.

It was due to a meltdown at the Tracon Facility in Westbury, Long Island that manages airspace throughout the region.

The FAA wants to relocate the controllers there who handle New Jersey airspace to a similar facility in Philadelphia, but controllers don't want to move.

The facility handles flights for the three major airports in the region, so the disruption led to two-hour delays.

The TSA is looking to break the three million mark at the end of the long holiday weekend.

ALSO READ: Hacks to save money when booking your next vacation

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The best travel destination dupes, according to experts.

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Sick of overcrowding or just tired of the beaten track? Check out these destination dupes instead.

The area of Alentejo is the most important olive-growing region in Portugal.

Try Portugal’s Alentejo wine region instead of the Douro Valley

“The Douro Valley (in the north of Portugal) is well known for both its wine vintages and scenery, but the Alentejo (in the center of Portugal) is less visited,” says Suzanne McGrory, Product Manager for Portugal at Audley Travel . “It’s a dry, dusty land filled with sun-baked vineyards, forests and wheat fields, occasionally punctuated by a small village of whitewashed houses or a walled medieval town. Évora , the walled provincial capital, is a good base for exploring the region, as well as a destination in its own right. The well-preserved city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Moorish alleyways, intact medieval walls, Roman ruins and a gothic cathedral. The city is also a cultural hub, with a lively student population and exceptional restaurants focused around the local cuisine.”

View from the Lighthouse, Koh Rong Sanloem, Cambodia

Try Cambodia’s Koh Rong Island instead of Phuket in Thailand

“Love Phuket as we do (and despite there still being a few better kept secrets on how to avoid the crowds!), there is no avoiding the fact that the footfall is high in peak season,” says Nick Pulley, Founder and Managing Director of Selective Asia , a bespoke tour operator specializing in meaningful, tailor-made Asian adventures. “Hop east to Cambodia where the southern islands have now come of age. Since 2018, a small number of resorts have opened on Koh Rong with the pick of the finest luxury resorts being Royal Sands in our opinion. Sat on the 4.3 mile Long Beach, a half-moon bay known for its white sands, turquoise waters and phosphorescent show at night, Royal Sands shares the bay with just a handful of other resorts and development is limited.”

Italy, Sardinia, Sardinia, Elephant rock beach

Try the Sicilian island of Pantelleria instead of mainland Italy

“Our clients, particularly multi-generational billionaire families, find the secluded villas in Pantelleria to be a perfect escape,” says Jaclyn Sienna India, Founder and CEO of ultra-luxury travel concierge company Sienna Charles . “Pantelleria offers natural hot springs and open-air spas, as well as ancient Zibibbo vineyards. Moreover, the unique blend of Italian and African culture and architecture adds to the allure of the island, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a luxurious and culturally enriching experience.”

Mahale Mountain National Park, Tanzania

Try Tanzania’s Mahale National Park instead of Uganda

Gemma D'Souza, Africa Travel Specialist at Unforgettable Travel Company suggests a walk on the wild side: “For primates, Uganda is always top pick as they have habituated chimpanzees and mountain gorillas, but there is a national park in western Tanzania that is very remote and secluded. Mahale is home to wild chimpanzees, which you can see with professional guides. The park is home to the luxury lodge Greystoke Mahale , offering treks to see the chimps, as well as nature walks, cultural visits, and boat trips on Lake Tanganyika (fun fact: this was the previous name of Tanzania). We can offer charter flights to and from Mahale, and combine it with a safari in southern Tanzania, which is very off-the-beaten-track.”

Panormos village in Tinos

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, try the greek island of tinos instead of mykonos.

“Mykonos, the island famed for its windmills, beach clubs and luxury hotel and restaurant scene has seen a resurgence in recent years,” says David Ox, Managing Director at Winged Boots . “However, to soak up the same Greek beauty, albeit minus the crowds, I’d recommend visiting the Cyclades third largest island Tinos. Once a pilgrimage isle, its ancient history may be a draw for some; however, the untouched beaches and farm-to-taverna style dining will steal your heart.”

Ruaha National Park is the largest national park in Tanzania

Try Ruaha National Park instead of the Serengeti

“[Northern Tanzania’s] Serengeti is the name everyone knows, and therefore, draws in large crowds of tourists—especially in the summer,” says Steven Upton, Head of Africa at Savile Row Travel . “Ruaha National Park [in Southern Tanzania] offers a more secluded, rugged and intimate safari experience. It’s perfect for those seeking to escape crowds and immerse themselves in an unspoiled, diverse ecosystem with rich wildlife viewing opportunities, including 10% of the world’s lions; large herds of elephants; and endangered African wild dogs. Jabali Ridge is an incredible lodge, perched on a rocky kopje with views across the Ruaha savannah stretching all the way to the Mwagusi River. The lodge aims to offer one of the most luxurious stays here and is really unique and striking in its design, built directly into the giant granite boulders.”

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15 Essential Travel Hacks When Visiting London

O ne of the top places to visit in Europe or the U.K., London is a bustling city with ample things to see and do. Perfect for history lovers, theatre enthusiasts, luxury brand shoppers, foodies, and spa-goers especially, the Big Smoke has all the makings of a fabulous vacation, any way you slice it. Of course, with countless attractions, must-see museums, incredible restaurants, various entertainment districts, and a party till the sun comes up kind of nightlife, a trip to this iconic metropolis can seem overwhelming at first.

Even if this is not your first time heading to the Big Smoke, planning your itinerary is no small feat. And, regardless of what you decide to get into while vacationing, there are several important odds and ends, including lodgings and transportation, that still need to be sorted ahead of time. So, to ensure your whirlwind getaway goes off without a hitch, here are 15 essential travel hacks that are absolute game-changers when visiting London.

Read more: It's Time To Ditch These 10 Outdated Travel Tips

Visit During The Shoulder Season

When considering a trip across the pond, timing is everything. In the warmer months, London is overflowing with tourists and locals, which means many wonderful attractions are harder to enjoy, waiting in long lines is the norm, and popular activities sell out fast. What's more, travel prices tend to be higher across the board. So, booking a trip to London during the shoulder season is the more pragmatic way to go.

London's shoulder season is usually from September to mid-October and around March till the first half of May. During either time, the weather tends to be more amenable, and things are often more affordable. Plus, travelers do not need to concern themselves with the summer or winter holiday crowds. Though there are spectacular events during the holidays and more than a few outdoor concerts, sporting tournaments, and other happenings going on from late May to September, if you want to experience what this city has to offer sans the masses and without breaking the bank, then the shoulder season is definitely one of the best times to visit.

Look For Accommodations In Central London

With dozens of options available, if you prefer a hotel, an Airbnb, or a hostel, the Big Smoke has no shortage of places to stay. That said, the area you choose to stay in is actually more important here. As you are likely aware, London is a rather large city, so choosing the right area or neighborhood matters. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, shopping, and more, then you should definitely look for accommodations in central London or the West End.

Though the center of London is a little pricier than, say, Victoria or Paddington, it is well worth the extra money, as you are closer to all the fun and entertainment. Of course, depending on the desired price range, travelers can peruse hotels and lodgings in West End and Westminster neighborhoods like Mayfair, Trafalgar, Soho, and Covent Garden. Here is where you will find fabulous options with ample convenience and nearby transportation, plus a range of attractions, pubs, and popular restaurants practically around every corner.

Pack For The Destination

Packing for a London getaway is pretty straightforward, no matter the season. Smart casual layers will work for almost any kind of weather. However, it is worth noting that people tend to dress well here, so make sure you have the proper attire for any nice dinners, plays, or nights out on the town.

In the shoulder season, you can expect, for the most part, mild weather that may require a jacket or fleece at night. Waterproof windbreakers and scarves are always a must in the U.K. If you happen to be visiting in September or October, gloves and a hat are also great to have with you. In addition to warm layers and seasonal accessories, your footwear is crucial in London. Even if walking tours are not your thing, there is still a lot of ground to cover in this thrilling city. Therefore, a pair of comfy, ideally waterproof shoes will ensure you can go the extra mile if need be.

Prepare For Rain

London is no stranger to rain, and a light shower can happen at any time as the weather in the city is often unpredictable. Thankfully, prolonged periods of rain or all-day showers are not all that common in the shoulder season. And the Big Smoke typically gets the bulk of its rain in November. Nonetheless, most months experience rainfall, approximately 11 to 15 days each month, to be exact.

As a result, preparing for rain, even at the start of the shoulder season, will make you a savvy traveler. A raincoat, an umbrella, or an alternative activity such as a museum day, afternoon tea, or a spa retreat for two in the event of a prolonged downpour is really all one needs here. Travelers can easily spend a few hours browsing art and ancient artifacts, enjoying a spot of tea with finger sandwiches, or catching up on self-care if they so choose. But remember, with the necessary preparation, you can always go about your day as planned, too.

Get An Oyster Card

There are more than a few ways to get around London, such as walking, taxi, or Uber. But when your destination is clear across town, it is highly recommended that you explore other modes of transportation. When doing so, you will quickly see that most options accept Oyster cards. If you are unsure what an Oyster card is, it is a convenient smartcard that allows you to quickly and effortlessly pay for your fare — for buses, on the Tube, as well as when taking trams, riding the National Rail, and aboard the River Bus.

The Visitor Oyster card , specifically, makes getting around London much more straightforward and is the more budget-friendly choice. Available in various amounts, travelers can order these handy cards before their trip and receive them at home. Even if you only plan on taking advantage of the Tube or the tram occasionally, you won't have to waste valuable vacation time waiting in line to purchase a ticket or trying to access the city's underground train. So, do yourself a favor and get a Visitor Oyster card.

Navigate The City Like A Local

Learning to navigate the city like a local is yet another travel hack to keep in mind when strolling about London on foot. The easiest way for visitors to take to the street like a Londoner is with a quick review of the walking etiquette rules, which you can find on the GOV.uk website. Of course, you are not expected to memorize all 30-plus rules. But you definitely should keep to the left when walking and match the pace with other pedestrians (most locals walk promptly, assertively, and without being glued to their cellphones).

Other useful rules, like thoroughly looking out for oncoming traffic and staying a reasonable distance from the curb for obvious safety reasons, are also important to know. Similarly, minding the gap on train platforms, obeying pedestrian crossing lights, and reading the relevant signage make getting around the Big Smoke much more pleasant and less hazardous. Plus, with millions of people out and about in London almost every day, being considerate of others comes with the territory and is not something visitors should overlook.

Remember You're On Military Time

When deciding what activities or excursions to book, it is vital that you pay attention to the date and time. The U.K., in general, uses both the 12-hour and 24-hour notations. But you will see more 24-hour clocks while on vacation in London. And, to avoid any confusion regarding daytime versus nighttime hours, people tend to stick to military time for departure times, business hours, showtimes, and more. So, get ready to do a quick math problem in your head if you are not used to the 24-hour clock.

Similarly, London visitors need to be on the lookout for how the date is written. Typically, you will see the date as day-month-year. Therefore, it never hurts to double-check your bookings and make sure your reservations are for the right day. Both the date format and the use of military time may throw you off at first. But you can save yourself a lot of trouble, especially when making travel arrangements online, by simply recalling these fun facts.

Book Everything In Advance

Speaking of bookings, there is a wealth of entertainment available in the Big Smoke, often only a few clicks away. From enjoying the royal jewels and afternoon tea bus tours to appreciating the arts and the iconic figures of yesteryear, you can indulge in it all. In fact, with so many things to do and see here, you may find you are short on time before you have even begun.

A tried-and-true travel hack to ensure you get the most out of your trip to London is to book everything in advance. Why spend valuable time waiting in long lines? The harsh reality is that seating for most activities and dining experiences is never first-come, first-serve, and everything tends to cost more the day of or at the box office. Likewise, popular events, day trips, and highly rated excursions are bound to sell out fast. So, take a second when planning your London getaway to book reservations, tours, plays, spa treatments, and anything else that piques your interest beforehand.

Make The Most Of Free Admission

Adding free-entry art houses, the best museums in London , and larger-than-life libraries to the itinerary is also a great travel hack, especially if you prefer to stay on a budget. Saving money in such an expensive city is always a win, and you can explore fine art spaces, world history, science, fashion, and more while you save. Several must-sees like the British Museum, the British Library, the Tate Britain and Tate Modern, the National Gallery, the Science Museum, and the Design Museum do not charge admission.

And even though there are just a dozen or so museums, galleries, and libraries in London that are free to the public, they are some of the most renowned. But free admission does not stop there — the Royal Parks and the City of London churches are also wonderful other no-cost options. Plus, the Big Smoke is known for its gratis events and festivals that happen all year round — providing more opportunities for visitors to make the most of free admission.

Hit The Shops During The Week

For luxury brand enthusiasts and avid shoppers, London does not disappoint. In fact, this city is home to some of the best brand-name outlets around. Spectacular shopping districts that will have you spending your vacation pennies include Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden, and St. James's. Unsurprisingly, these high-end shopping areas, in particular, are overflowing with people, especially on the weekends. As a result, if you come to shop, it is better to do so during the week.

Besides these above-mentioned districts, London visitors can also find incredible shopping at Bond Street and Mayfair, Westfield Shopping Centre, King's Road, Carnaby, and Seven Dials. Though these spots are often less crowded on the weekends in comparison, they still offer quite the selection and attract the masses. However, instead of luxury lifestyle brands,  shoppers will find emerging designers, the latest fashions, and one-of-a-kind home goods — making a weekday spree the better choice for snagging highly coveted items before they are gone.

Order At The Bar When In Pubs

Table service at a pub is quite uncommon in London. To avoid not being served, patrons must order and pay at the bar. The same goes for snacks or pub eats — ordering happens at the bar. Typically, patrons order drinks, pay, and then carry their pints and cocktails back to their seats. For food requests, you will likely be given (or have to provide) a table number for your grub so it can be brought to you.

Ordering at the pub bar while doing the complete opposite in restaurants or other dining establishments may initially seem odd or slightly annoying. But when you think about it, it actually makes life a little easier. You do not have to worry about giving a tip and flagging someone down for another round. Patrons also do not have to sit around aimlessly waiting for the bill so that they can pay and leave. Instead, when you are ready to move on to the next pub or call it a night, you simply get up and go.

Try The Cuisine

The British are not necessarily known for their cuisine, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try the food. The culinary experience you can have while visiting the Big Smoke may just surprise you. Not only are there diverse options in this multicultural mecca, but there are some classic dishes such as fish and chips, Beef Wellington, bangers (sausages) and mash, Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding, and other must-tries.

In addition to some quintessential Londoner eats, travelers who have never sat down for afternoon tea should add a classic London afternoon tea or two to their to-do list. Foodies willing to try it all can savor the hearty full English breakfast, shepherd's pie, Scotch eggs, and bubble and squeak (potatoes and cabbage fried to perfection). What's more, for travelers with a sweet tooth, London has more than a few desserts like the sticky toffee pudding, Eton mess, and a trifle that will satisfy your cravings.

Skip The Tip While Eating Out

Tipping in London is definitely tricky business. Many restaurants have a 12.5% service charge automatically added to the bill. So, tipping is not necessary there. Alternatively, drinking establishments do not have a service charge, and tipping isn't really part of the process. Therefore, skipping the gratuity when eating out or grabbing a few drinks with friends is perfectly acceptable.

However, tipping does come into play in hotels and with certain hospitality services -- spas, taxis, and private tours. In these instances, the general rule of thumb is to tip somewhere between 10% and 15% for hotel dining, porters, door staff, massage therapists, and so on. When taking a black cab, leaving gratuity becomes a little more discretionary. At the end of the fare, travelers can decide to tip or not — though it is considered polite to either round up or add on a few pounds if you are happy with the service.

Budget Accordingly

When visiting London, going over budget or getting carried away on Regent Street is not difficult to do. From eating out every single day and excursions (both near and far) to shopping, treating yourself, and transportation, things can start to add up quickly. Most travelers budget for flights, accommodations, and entertainment and aim to spend a reasonable amount of money per day per person in this famous old city.

Still, those same travelers forget to consider the exchange rate and are often shocked at the cost. London isn't cheap by any means. Thus, budgeting for any trip across the pond should incorporate the exchange rate, money-saving tips, and everyone's individual travel style. You should also factor in last-minute price changes in your itinerary and unforeseeable expenses (lost items, medicines, other modes of transportation, and more). And remember, when creating your travel budget for London, you need to be honest with yourself — are you trying to splurge or save? This way, there will be no surprises.

Make Room For Day Trips

Lastly, for travelers who have already seen most of the city sights, making room in your itinerary and budget for a day trip or two is highly recommended. Spending days on end in the Big Smoke is exciting, fast-paced, and full of amazement. Nevertheless, this may be one of the only times you are this close to the English countryside, fascinating ruins, castles, quaint seaside villages, vast hiking trails, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and the whole of Europe.

Even if all you need is a mini-break from the hustle and bustle of the city, more than a few phenomenal destinations (including other countries) are only a train ride away. Paris, for example, is only two hours away. Plus, wanderers staying for a couple of weeks can spend their weekends in other far-off and magical places. Ultimately, a semi-lengthy London getaway can be whatever you decide to make it — and with these travel hacks at your disposal, you can make visiting London and its surrounding bits an exceptional experience you will never forget.

Read the original article on Explore .

Eat to the Beat: How to skip the line at EPCOT's food and wine festival concerts

• The Eat to the Beat Concert Series is part of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.
• The festival runs from Aug. 30 to Nov. 19.
• Concerts are held nightly at the American Gardens Theater.

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EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival may be known for its culinary experience, but music fans also have something to feast on.

The lineup for the Eat to the Beat Concert Series strikes a nostalgic chord with some favorites from decades ago. Acts like Tiffany, Boys II Men and Hanson will take the stage for live performances.

Shows are included with admission to EPCOT, but getting a seat to watch the performance may require some planning. Here are details on what you need to know about the festival and accompanying concerts:

Concerts scheduled for the 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

◾ Aug. 30-31 – The Fray

◾ Sept. 1-2 – Sugar Ray

◾ Sept. 6-7 – Hoobastank

◾ Sept. 8-9 – Yellowcard

◾ Sept. 13-14 – Tiffany

◾ Sept. 15-16 – MercyMe

◾ Sept. 20-21 – Sheila E.

◾ Sept. 22-23 – The Wanted

◾ Sept. 27 – Luis Figueroa

◾ Sept. 28-29 – Mau y Ricky

◾ Sept. 30 – Jesse & Joy

◾ Oct. 4-5 – Aloe Blacc

◾ Oct. 6-7 – Joey Fatone & Friends

◾ Oct. 11-12 – We The Kings

◾ Oct. 13-14 – Switchfoot

◾ Oct. 18-19 – David Archuleta

◾ Oct. 20-21 – Billy Ocean

◾ Oct. 25-28 – Hanson

◾ Nov. 1-2 – Haley Reinhart featuring Emily Estefan, Casey Abrams and Janel Parrish

◾ Nov. 3-4 – Boyz II Men

◾ Nov. 8-9 – Magic!

◾ Nov. 10-11 – Parmalee

◾ Nov. 15-16 – Smash Mouth

◾ Nov. 17-18 – 98 Degrees

It’s wise to check the schedule as the concert date gets closer. Artist appearances are subject to change or can be canceled without notice.

How to secure a seat to watch a performance at EPCOT’s Eat to the Beat Concert Series?

First, you need to make sure you have an EPCOT park ticket valid for the day you want to see a concert.

Seating in the American Gardens Theater is done on a first-come basis. Guests usually start lining up hours in advance to secure a spot.

There is a way to get a guaranteed seat on certain nights if you purchase a dining package. Available Friday through Monday, the dining package includes a meal at one of eight restaurants the day of the concert.

Prices for the dining package vary per restaurant and start at $36 for adults.

When are the Eat to the Beat concerts at EPCOT?

The concerts are held nightly beginning Aug. 30, the day after the festival begins.

There are three concerts each night: 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m.

What is the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival?

The festival features dozens of booths serving food and beverages from a variety of cuisines around the world.

Each booth offers small plates for a fee, usually about $10.

Spitzer can be reached at [email protected]

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

Flight diverts to JFK after passengers are served spoiled food

The delta flight had departed detroit and was en route to amsterdam when cabin crew made the call, by jennifer millman and melissa colorado • published july 3, 2024 • updated 34 mins ago.

An Amsterdam-bound Delta flight with nearly 300 people aboard had to divert to JFK Airport early Wednesday after "it was discovered" that some of the in-flight meal service had been spoiled, the airline said.

Flight crews on the Airbus A330 consulted with medical experts, who recommended the diversion to Queens. Flight Aware shows the flight turning around as it flew over eastern Canada. Delta flight 136 landed safely there at 4 a.m.

It's not clear how many passengers consumed the tainted food, nor were details on the spoilage known.

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Passengers say it was the chicken.

Delta said medical crews were onsite to meet the aircraft and treat any affected passengers and crew. The Port Authority said 24 people --10 crew members, 14 passengers -- were evaluated upon landing.

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All refused a ride to the hospital, the agency said.

Grand Lux Cafe on Long Island catches fire

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Passengers were provided hotel rooms and transportation. They're rebooked on a Wednesday evening flight to their destination, officials said.

Delta apologized for the incident, saying in a statement, "This is not the service Delta is known for and we sincerely apologize to our customers for the inconvenience and delay in their travels."

The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the safe diversion, saying crew members had reported "several sick passengers" prior to landing.

The flight had originated in Detroit.

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