Road trips with our children provide such rich adventures. Stories are told, games are played, the scenery is discussed, and music is enjoyed. Albeit, it is not without its hurdles.
One of the main challenges concerns serving meals on the road. I know I’m not alone in my aversion to fast food. As we frequently traverse the country, I have had to invent alternative meals that would not waste precious traveling time nor break the bank. Thus, the traveling deli was born.
We drive a 15- passenger van on these cross-country excursions. We long ago removed the bench directly behind the drivers seat. This allows ample space for every item we need when we travel: games, books, toys, baskets for dry goods and food items that do not have to be kept cold, and an ice chest – the heart of my traveling deli.
In the ice chest I carry thinly sliced ham, turkey and cheeses, condiments, fresh fruit cut up for serving, yogurt, juice, water, and diet coke (my vice). I bring along a variety of rolls and breads, cookies, fruit snacks, and chips. It is crucial to make certain that you have plenty of paper plates, napkins, cups, wipes and towels for serving and clean-up. Especially don’t forget to pack trash bags.
I prepare my family’s plates and pass them back as we drive along. The older children help the younger children manage their meal. We usually eat as we are driving, rarely stopping to actually picnic. This is due to the fact that we are frequently attempting to make a destination in a timely manner.
We pass a trash bag often to help keep the car as neat as possible. I pack wet washclothes in zip-lock bags (one or two are soapy) to help keep everyone neat and clean. Don’t underestimate the situation: a clean automobile becomes relative on these drives!
The traveling deli has added a lovely dimension to our travels. I am satisfied knowing that my family is eating fairly healthy, satisfying meals and I don’t have to deal with the aroma of fast food in our car for hundreds of miles!
Enjoy your travels!
“For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move…” –Robert Louis Stevenson
Tags: travel