Traveling with children means you need to pack snacks and meals they’ll actually eat. But with limited luggage space, what food should you bring to a hotel stay? If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Focus on non-perishable, kid-friendly snacks like granola bars, fruit snacks, crackers, and shelf-stable milk.
Bring compact breakfast items like cereal, oatmeal packets, and boxed juice.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about packing food for hotel stays with kids. You’ll learn tips for choosing snacks and meals they’ll love, how to store and serve food in a hotel room, suggestions for eating on-the-go, and avoiding waste for a smoother family vacation.
Choosing Kid-Friendly Non-Perishable Snacks
Granola and Cereal Bars
Granola and cereal bars are a convenient and delicious snack option for kids while traveling. They are easy to pack and provide a good amount of energy to keep them fueled throughout the day. Look for bars that are low in sugar and made with whole grains for a healthier choice.
Some popular options include Nature Valley bars, KIND bars, and Clif Kid Zbars.
Fruit Snacks and Applesauce
Fruit snacks and applesauce are great options to satisfy your child’s sweet tooth while still providing them with some essential nutrients. Look for fruit snacks made with real fruit and no added sugars.
Applesauce pouches are also a convenient option as they are mess-free and can be easily packed in a bag. Brands like Annie’s, GoGo SqueeZ, and Mott’s offer a variety of flavors that kids love.
Crackers, Pretzels, Popcorn
Crackers, pretzels, and popcorn are classic snack choices that are loved by kids of all ages. Opt for whole grain options to provide more fiber and nutrients. Pack them in small individual bags for easy portion control and to prevent them from getting crushed.
Some popular brands to consider are Goldfish, Snyder’s of Hanover, and SkinnyPop.
Shelf-Stable Nut Butter and Jelly
Nut butter and jelly sandwiches are a staple in many kids’ diets, and they can be a great option for a quick and easy meal while on the go. Look for single-serve packets of nut butter that don’t require refrigeration. Pair it with individual portions of jelly or jam for a complete sandwich.
Brands like Justin’s and Smucker’s offer convenient options for on-the-go snacking.
Boxed Raisins, Craisins, Trail Mix
Raisins, craisins (dried cranberries), and trail mix are nutritious and tasty snack options that can be easily packed in a bag. They provide a good source of fiber and antioxidants. Look for options without added sugars or unhealthy oils.
Some popular brands include Sun-Maid, Ocean Spray, and Nature’s Garden.
Protein-Rich Snacks like Jerky
Protein-rich snacks like jerky can be a great option for keeping your child satiated between meals. Look for jerky made from lean meats and without added preservatives or excessive sodium. Some popular choices include beef jerky, turkey jerky, and even vegetarian options like mushroom jerky.
Brands like Jack Link’s, Krave, and Primal Spirit offer a wide variety of options.
Easy No-Cook Breakfast Foods
Individual boxes of cereal, oatmeal
When it comes to easy no-cook breakfast foods, individual boxes of cereal and oatmeal are a great option for families staying in a hotel with kids. These single-serving boxes are convenient and require no preparation.
Kids can simply grab a box, pour in some milk, and enjoy a quick and satisfying breakfast. Plus, with a variety of flavors and options available, there is something for everyone’s taste.
Shelf-stable milk and juice boxes
Another essential item to bring for a no-cook breakfast is shelf-stable milk and juice boxes. These single-serving cartons are perfect for on-the-go and do not require refrigeration. They provide a convenient and nutritious option for kids to pair with their cereal or oatmeal.
Plus, they come in a variety of flavors, making breakfast time more enjoyable for everyone.
Yogurt cups or pouches
Yogurt cups or pouches are a fantastic choice for a no-cook breakfast that is both healthy and delicious. They are portable, require no refrigeration, and provide a good source of protein and calcium. With flavors ranging from strawberry to blueberry and even tropical blends, there is a yogurt option that will please even the pickiest of eaters.
Fruit cups
For a refreshing and nutritious addition to a hotel breakfast, fruit cups are a fantastic choice. These pre-packaged cups are filled with a variety of fruits such as peaches, pears, and mixed fruits in light syrup or juice.
They are a great way to ensure that kids are getting their daily dose of vitamins and minerals while on vacation.
Breakfast/granola bars
Lastly, breakfast or granola bars are an excellent option for a quick and easy no-cook breakfast. These bars are compact, portable, and come in a variety of flavors. They are a convenient choice for families on the go and can provide a good source of energy to start the day.
Plus, they are often made with whole grains and other nutritious ingredients, making them a healthier alternative to traditional sugary breakfast pastries.
Tips for Storing Food in Hotel Rooms
Use mini-fridge for perishable items
When traveling with kids, it’s important to store perishable items properly to ensure their freshness and safety. Most hotel rooms are equipped with a mini-fridge, which can be a lifesaver for storing items like milk, yogurt, fruits, and leftovers from dining out.
This allows you to keep these items at a cool temperature, extending their shelf life and reducing the risk of spoilage. Just make sure to check the temperature settings of the mini-fridge and adjust accordingly to keep your food at the optimal temperature.
Designate an area for non-perishable storage
In addition to using the mini-fridge, it’s a good idea to designate an area in your hotel room for non-perishable items. This can be a shelf or a drawer where you can store snacks, dry goods, and other items that do not require refrigeration.
By keeping these items separate from perishable foods, you can easily grab a snack or prepare a quick meal without having to rummage through everything in the fridge.
Bring reusable containers and Ziploc bags
When packing food for your hotel stay, it’s helpful to bring along reusable containers and Ziploc bags. These can be used to store leftovers, pack individual servings of snacks, or portion out meals for easy access.
Reusable containers are especially handy for items that may leak or need to be kept airtight. Ziploc bags, on the other hand, are great for storing smaller items or for keeping snacks fresh and easily accessible.
Plus, using reusable containers and Ziploc bags is an eco-friendly option that reduces waste.
Use the ice bucket for extra cooling
If you find that your mini-fridge is not providing enough cooling space, you can use the ice bucket provided by the hotel to store additional perishable items. Simply line the ice bucket with a plastic bag and fill it with ice from the ice machine.
This makeshift cooler can help keep items like drinks, condiments, and small containers of food cool and fresh. Just be sure to replace the ice regularly to maintain the desired temperature.
By following these tips for storing food in hotel rooms, you can ensure that you have a variety of options available for your kids during your stay. Remember to prioritize food safety and always check the expiration dates and condition of the items you bring. Happy travels!
Serving Tips and On-the-Go Meals
Disposable plates, bowls, utensils
When packing food for a hotel stay with kids, it’s essential to consider convenience and cleanliness. Disposable plates, bowls, and utensils are a great option as they eliminate the need for washing and make mealtime cleanup a breeze.
You can easily find eco-friendly and biodegradable options that are both practical and environmentally friendly. These disposable items are especially handy when dining at a hotel without access to a kitchen or dishwasher.
Reusable placemats or picnic blankets
Bringing reusable placemats or picnic blankets can make mealtime more enjoyable and hygienic. These portable mats provide a clean surface for your little ones to eat on, whether you’re having a meal in your hotel room or enjoying a picnic outdoors.
Look for mats that are easy to fold and clean, making them a convenient choice for your on-the-go meals with kids.
Mess-free car snacks like squeezable applesauce
Long car rides can be challenging, especially when hunger strikes. To keep your kids fueled and mess-free, pack snacks that are easy to eat on the go, such as squeezable applesauce pouches. These convenient snacks require no utensils and can be enjoyed without making a mess.
Plus, they provide a healthy option that kids are sure to love. Just remember to bring a small cooler or insulated bag to keep them cool if needed.
Non-spill travel mugs for drinks
When it comes to drinks, spills can quickly become a parent’s worst nightmare. To avoid any unwanted accidents, invest in non-spill travel mugs for your kids’ beverages. These specially designed mugs typically come with leak-proof lids and are perfect for both hot and cold drinks.
Whether you’re sipping on some hot chocolate or enjoying a refreshing juice, non-spill travel mugs will help keep your car or hotel room mess-free.
Remember, the key to successful meals with kids in a hotel is to prioritize convenience, cleanliness, and mess-free options. By using disposable plates and utensils, bringing reusable placemats, packing mess-free snacks, and using non-spill travel mugs, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable dining experience for the whole family.
Avoiding Food Waste in Hotels
When traveling with kids, it can be tempting to bring an abundance of food to ensure they have enough to eat during your hotel stay. However, it’s important to be mindful of food waste and only bring what you’ll realistically eat.
By following a few simple tips, you can avoid wasting food and make your stay more enjoyable for everyone.
Only bring what you’ll realistically eat
Before packing your bags, take a moment to assess how much food your family will actually consume during your stay. Consider the duration of your trip, the availability of food options at your hotel or nearby, and your family’s typical eating habits.
It’s better to pack a little less and have the option to buy more if needed, rather than bringing excess food that may go to waste.
Pro tip: If you’re unsure about the portion sizes your kids will need, pack some healthy snacks that can be easily shared or consumed on-the-go. This way, you’ll have a backup option without overpacking.
Donate unopened items when checking out
If you find yourself with unopened food items that you know won’t be consumed before checking out, consider donating them. Many hotels have partnerships with local food banks or organizations that accept donations. By donating unopened food, you can help those in need while also reducing food waste.
Did you know? According to the Feeding America, a non-profit organization focused on hunger relief in the United States, an estimated 40% of food in America goes uneaten. By donating your unopened items, you’re contributing to the fight against food waste and hunger.
Store and serve in small quantities
Instead of bringing large containers of food that may spoil before you have a chance to finish them, consider storing and serving in small quantities. This can be particularly helpful for perishable items like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
Use resealable bags or containers to portion out the food and keep it fresh throughout your stay.
Pro tip: If your hotel room has a refrigerator, take advantage of it by storing perishable items properly. This will help to extend their freshness and minimize waste.
By following these tips, you can minimize food waste and make your hotel stay with kids more enjoyable. Remember to be mindful of portion sizes, consider donating unopened items, and store and serve food in small quantities. Happy travels!
Conclusion
Packing food for hotel stays with kids requires choosing shelf-stable, portable items they already enjoy eating. Focus on snacks like cereal bars, crackers, and fruit along with no-cook breakfast supplies. Use storage hacks like reusable containers and the mini-fridge to prevent waste.
With the right kid-friendly foods, you can save money on meals and keep your family fueled for vacation fun.
Use these tips to take the guesswork out of grocery shopping and meal planning for your next hotel trip. Setting your kids up with their favorite snacks and foods will lead to happier travelers all around.
