airplane snacks for Young Children
Plane travel with toddlers and kids can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to long flights. Keeping your little ones happy and entertained is crucial for a smooth journey, and one way to achieve this is through carefully chosen airplane snacks.
These snacks not only provide nourishment but also serve as a great distraction during the flight. In this ultimate guide, we will explore the best airplane snacks for toddlers and kids(and dads too), ensuring that your children stay happy and healthy throughout the journey.
choosing great airplane snacks
When selecting snacks for your children during a long flight, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost, it is essential to choose snacks that are healthy and provide the necessary nutrients. Opt for snacks that are low in sugar and high in fiber, such as fresh fruit, whole grain crackers, or yogurt.
Additionally, take into account any dietary restrictions or allergies your child may have. It’s always a good idea to pack a variety of snacks to cater to different tastes and preferences. Lastly, consider the convenience and portability of the snacks. Choose snacks that are easy to pack, open, and eat, as well as snacks that won’t create a mess.
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Preparing Airplane snack bags
To ensure that you have a wide selection of snacks readily available during the flight, it is advisable to pre-pack snack bags. Start by selecting a durable and reusable bag that is easy to carry. Divide the bag into compartments or use small resealable bags to keep snacks organized. Pack a mix of sweet and savory snacks, including fresh fruit, trail mix, granola bars, and cheese sticks.
Don’t forget to include a few treats to keep the excitement level high. It’s also a good idea to pack a few wet wipes to clean hands and faces after snacking. By preparing snack bags in advance, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips, making the journey more enjoyable for both you and your children.
Healthy snack ideas for toddlers and kids
When it comes to choosing healthy snacks for toddlers and kids, there are endless options to consider. Start by offering fresh fruits like sliced apples, grapes, or berries. These not only provide essential vitamins but also help to keep your little ones hydrated. Vegetables like baby carrots, cherry tomatoes, or cucumber slices are also excellent choices. Pair them with a small container of hummus or yogurt for added flavor and protein.
For a crunchy and satisfying snack, pack whole grain crackers, rice cakes, or popcorn. Hey, how about some Seaweed snacks too? These snacks are not only delicious but also provide fiber for a healthy digestive system. Remember to include some protein-rich options like cheese sticks or turkey slices. These will help keep your children feeling full and satisfied throughout the flight.
Individual portions and easy-to-eat snacks
When it comes to airplane snacks for toddlers and kids, individual portions and easy-to-eat options are key. Opt for snacks that come in single-serving packages to minimize mess and make it easier for your children to eat independently.
These individual portions eliminate the need for utensils and ensure that each child can enjoy their snack without any hassle. Additionally, choose snacks that are bite-sized or can be easily broken into smaller pieces. This will make eating more manageable for younger children and reduce the risk of choking. Remember to pack a sippy cup or water bottle to keep your little ones hydrated throughout the flight.
Minimizing mess with the right snacks
Nobody wants to deal with a huge mess during a long flight, especially when traveling with toddlers and kids. To minimize mess, choose snacks that are not overly sticky or crumbly. Avoid snacks like chocolate bars or sticky candies that can melt or make a mess on hands and faces. Opt for snacks like dry cereal, pretzels, or fruit snacks that are less likely to create a mess.
Pack snacks that are individually wrapped or come in resealable bags to contain any crumbs or spills. It’s also a good idea to bring along a few wet wipes to quickly clean up any messes that do occur. By selecting the right snacks, you can keep your children happy and entertained without worrying about a major cleanup.
Snack options for different age groups
When it comes to choosing airplane snacks, it’s important to consider the age of your children. For younger children, soft and easy-to-eat snacks are ideal. Consider packing pouches of pureed fruit or squeeze packs of yogurt. These snacks are not only convenient but also provide essential nutrients for growing bodies.
Older children may enjoy snacks that require a bit more chewing, such as granola bars, trail mix, or beef jerky. It’s always a good idea to involve your children in the snack selection process. Let them choose a few of their favorite snacks to pack for the journey. This will not only make them feel more involved but also increase the chances of them enjoying their snacks during the flight.
Snack ideas for long-haul flights
Long-haul flights can be especially challenging when it comes to keeping your children happy and entertained. To make the journey more enjoyable, pack a variety of snacks that can be eaten throughout the flight. Start with some fresh fruit like apple slices or grapes to provide essential hydration and vitamins.
Don’t forget to include a few treats like cookies, chocolate or homerun balls for a special surprise. By having a selection of snacks available, you can keep your children engaged and satisfied during the entire flight.
Snack ideas for road trips
Similar to flights, road trips offer a unique opportunity to pack a variety of snacks that can be enjoyed on the go. When choosing snacks for road trips, it’s important to consider convenience and portability. Opt for snacks that are easy to eat with minimal mess, such as pre-cut fruits and vegetables, trail mix, or sandwiches. Pack snacks that can be easily stored in a cooler or lunchbox to keep them fresh and cool.
Consider including some homemade snacks like muffins or energy balls for a healthier alternative to store-bought treats. It’s also a good idea to have a few surprise snacks tucked away to keep the excitement level high. With the right snacks, road trips can become a fun and delicious adventure for the whole family.
++Need More Regular Snack Ideas? Check out my Article about Korean Snacks.
Tips for navigating TSA regulations
When traveling by plane, it’s important to be aware of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations regarding liquids and food items. To avoid any issues at the security checkpoint, follow these tips:
- Check the TSA website for the most up-to-date information on what is allowed in carry-on bags.
- Pack snacks in individual portions and place them in a clear, resealable bag for easy inspection.
- If traveling with liquids, make sure they are in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less and placed in a quart-sized plastic bag.
- Inform the TSA officer if you are carrying any medically necessary liquids or baby food/formula.
- Be prepared for additional screening if necessary, and cooperate with TSA officers to ensure a smooth process.
By familiarizing yourself with the TSA regulations and following these tips, you can navigate the security checkpoint with ease and ensure that your airplane snacks for kids will make it through without any issues.
How to Pack Fruits and Veggies for Travel
For this use, collapsible plastic food containers are ideal. Put them in your carry-on after filling them with fresh produce. When the food is gone, they will collapse to take up the available suitcase space after protecting the food from bruising and crushing.
Frozen food that needs ice packs should be packed together in a soft-sided cooler bag, which should then be placed in carry-on luggage. On the way to the airport, try to keep the food and ice packs as cold as you can.
Pack food containers close to the opening of a carry-on luggage since TSA inspectors may ask travelers to remove all food from their carry-on and place it in bins for screening.
Always keep in mind your destination, as many countries will ask you to fill out questionaires on fresh produce prior to arrival.
The best part
Enjoying snacks at the final destination
While airplane snacks are essential for keeping your little ones happy and healthy during the flight, the best part comes when you reach your final destination. After a long journey, it’s time to explore new places and indulge in local cuisine. Take this opportunity to introduce your children to new flavors, dishes and even new snacks. Encourage them to try new foods and embrace the culinary experiences of your destination.
Whether it’s sampling street food, visiting local markets, or dining at family-friendly restaurants, make the most of your time and savor the delicious moments together. After all, travel is not just about the journey but also about the destination and the memories you create along the way.
Conclusion
Keeping your little ones happy on a long trip
Traveling with toddlers and kids can be a wonderful adventure, and with the right snacks, you can ensure that your little ones stay happy and healthy throughout the journey. By considering factors such as nutrition, convenience, and mess, you can choose the best airplane snacks for your children. Preparing snack bags in advance and packing individual portions will make snacking easier and more enjoyable.
By following TSA regulations and being prepared, you can navigate the security checkpoint with ease. And finally, at the end of your journey, embrace the joy of discovering new flavors and cuisines at your destination. By keeping your little ones happy and well-fed, you can create lasting memories and make every trip a memorable one. Bon voyage!
++Tip: Don’t give them too much sugar as they will start bouncing around the plane and get cranky and fussy once that ‘sugar high’ crashes.
++Tip: Be aware. It’s it’s your first time traveling with your little ones, I suggest buying a small toy from the dollar shop or Amazon and wrapping it in paper. If they start acting up on the plane you can tell them ‘Dad has a little gift for you IF you can be good for a while.” Then when the time comes you can let them unwrap the ‘gift’ and they’ll be super happy. Cheers!
Top 50 Snacks for Your Trip
Great Snack Ideas for Your Next Flight
- Tempura Seaweed Snacks: Seafood Flavor Snacks
- GoMacro Kids MacroBar Organic Vegan Snack Bars
- Mini Cheese Sandwiches: Create small cheese sandwiches using whole grain bread.
- Fruit Kabobs: Skewer small pieces of fruit like melon, grapes, and berries for a fun snack.
- Clif Kid Zbar Protein Granola Bars: Opt for low-sugar, nut-free granola bars that are easy to carry.
- Sliced Cucumber: Pack cucumber slices in a small container for a refreshing and hydrating snack.
- Mini Pretzel Bites: These bite-sized pretzels are convenient for little hands.
- Apple Slices with Cinnamon: Toss apple slices in a bit of cinnamon to add flavor.
- Rice Crackers: Choose rice crackers for a light and crunchy snack.
- Mini Rice Pudding Cups: Provide small cups of rice pudding for a satisfying treat.
The Right Snacks
- Freeze-Dried Fruit: Opt for lightweight and mess-free freeze-dried fruit options.
- Mini Cheese Sticks: These are easy to pack and provide protein.
- Squeezable Applesauce: Good for little kids. Choose no-sugar-added applesauce pouches for a mess-free option.
- Mini Veggie Wraps: Roll up small wraps filled with veggies and a dip like hummus.
- Banana Chips: Offer dried banana chips as a sweet and crispy snack.
- Greek Yogurt Cups: Provide small cups of Greek yogurt with a lid.
- Raisins or Dried Cranberries: These are small, portable, and easy for toddlers to handle.
- Oatmeal Cups: Pack single-serving cups of instant oatmeal and ask the flight attendant for hot water.
- Mini Quiches: Bake mini quiches with veggies and cheese for a savory option.
- Fruit Pouches: Look for pouches with a mix of fruits and veggies for a balanced snack.
More Snack Ideas
- Mini Hummus Cups: Include small containers of hummus with veggie sticks.
- Mini Fruit Muffins: Bake mini muffins with fruit for a delicious treat.
- Korean Snacks: So many Choices
- Perfect Kids Snack Bars: Nut butter-based bars with added nutrients.
- Freeze Dried Strawberries
- Nature’s Bakery Fig Bars: Soft fig bars made with whole grains and real fruit.
- Pirate’s Booty Aged White Cheddar Puffs: A cheesy, puffed snack that’s mess-free.
- Earth’s Best Organic Crunchin’ Crackers: Mini crackers that are perfect for little hands.
- Babybel Mini Cheese Wheels: Individually wrapped mini cheese rounds.
- Kellogg’s SCOOBY-DOO! Baked Graham Cracker Snacks
More Great Options!
Good Idea
- Annie’s Organic Bunny Snacks: These come in various flavors and shapes, making them fun for toddlers.
- Game Jerky Alligator-beef-elk-buffalo-kangaroo-ostrich-venison-wild Boar.(HEY WHY NOT)
- Kind Kids Bars: Nut and allergen-friendly bars made with whole ingredients.
- Bear Real Fruit Yoyos: Rolls of real fruit puree that are easy to hold and eat.
- GoldFish Crackers
- RITZ Peanut Butter Sandwiches on the Go
- Sun-Maid Vanilla Yogurt Coated Raisins
- Organic Turkish Figs Dried Fruit Snacks
- SNACKLINS Plant-Based Crisps
- ELLA’S FLATS® Sesame All Seed Savory Crisps
- Sour Patch Kids! These don’t need any introduction…
- Can’t forget my ever-so-yummy Haribo Jellies…love’em.
- How about some Babybel Cheeses? Awesome snack
They grow up so fast, don’t they? Enjoy every moment you can with them. Travel the world!
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