Road trip packing and snacking

Road trip packing is essential for parents. Kids will get hungry on a road trip. Taking a few smart snacks along for the ride may be just enough to keep cranky kids at bay.

Just as with regular snack times, parents should try to pack nutritious foods for their little ones, like apples. Even though it's a road trip, it doesn't mean that kids should skip out on healthful food.

Parents would be wise to pack food that won't get little hands sticky or stained. The American Dietetic Association recommends packing popcorn, carrots and cereal.

Breaking food down into small, manageable plastic bags may make it easier to keep portion sizes in control and prevent kids from spilling large amounts of food in the car.

Packing a small cooler will help widen the range of foods that can be taken along in the car. Items like string cheese and water aren't messy and can easily be stored.

Moist towelettes are also good for wiping off hands and mouths, says the American Dietetic Association. This is especially true if a rest area isn't nearby.