It’s hard to believe, but summer is winding down. Soon, fall colors will replace lush green trees and scarfs will replace swimsuits. But before the last steamy days of summer slip away, many folks will hit the road for one last getaway. Whether you are riding solo for a few hours, hitting the road with your best friends for an overnight adventure, or packing up the kids for a cross-country haul, you can still eat healthy while on the road.

Three-to-Five Hour Road Trips

For trips that are shorter in distance, you don’t have to worry about prepping full meals or food spoiling. Pack a few snacks that will satisfy every craving – from salty and sweet to chewy and crunchy. To keep portions in check, pack snacks in individual bags.

• Pack some homemade popcorn topped with fresh herbs and olive oil.
• For some homemade trail mix, pack your favorite nuts, dried fruit and a few chocolate chips to keep yourself alert and focused on the road.
• Granola bars are always an easy snack to pack and eat on the road. Pick a variety with protein and carbohydrates to keep your energy up.

Five-to Eight Hour Hauls

For a longer drive, you’ll want to full meals and snacks to get you through your journey. You should make sure to include a balance of carbohydrates, protein and fats to keep your diet going in the right direction. For these, you’re going to need a cooler and plenty of ice packs to keep these perishable snacks at a safe temperature:

• This is where that cooler comes in handy. For a protein-filled snack that is easy to transport, try hard-boiled eggs that are already peeled and ready to eat.  With 6 grams of protein per egg, you’ll feel full through the whole trip. Pair with some sliced cheese, and cut-up fruits and veggies to cover all your nutritional bases.
• Avoid a crummy mess by using bagels or tortilla wraps to make portable sandwiches. Top a bagel with your favorite nut butter and banana. Since you’ve got that cooler conveniently Another option is to spread hummus on a whole-grain tortilla and top with turkey slices and sliced veggies for a balanced meal. Add a little hot sauce for some extra flavor.

For the Kids

• Ants on a Log: Slice up celery and top with peanut butter and raisins.
• Yogurt and granola is a tasty treat that satisfies kids’ sweet tooth but is healthy at the same time. Be sure to properly pack the yogurt in a cooler with ice packs.
• Staying hydrated is important on the road! Freeze bottles of water to quench thirst (but limits bathroom breaks).

Hit the road to your favorite destination to soak in those last rays of sunshine, but don’t forget to make those healthful, nutritious choices along the way.