So you’re ready to head onto the open road. A vast country awaits you with people and places to see. Now, you just have to figure out what you want to eat. Eating fast food for every meal is certainly tempting, but it’s probably not the healthiest option for you or your family.

Try some of these healthy options instead. Pack pre-made meals for the road to save you money for the long haul. If you invest in an ice cooler before you start packing, you’ll have more options of what you can bring.

Muffins and Bagels

Muffins are perfect for your early morning breakfast of your midday snack. Pack a variety to keep it interesting. Choose from banana nut, blueberry or bran for the healthiest option, or try baking them at home so save money.

Bagels are great for breakfast and for making sandwiches for lunch. Keep cream cheese in the cooler and pack a variety for different types of meals. For sandwiches, try using deli slices, sprouts and cheese.

Yogurt

Fruit on the bottom, stirred, Greek or traditional – there are so many options when it comes to yogurt. Kids love it too. It’s just sweet enough that it seems like a little treat. Keep it on ice and serve it for breakfast or a snack.

Quinoa salad

Quinoa is one of the best ways to get complete protein into your meal when you’re on the road. It’s a quick and easy way to make a delicious, healthy and gluten-free meal. To make your salad, add chopped tomato, kale and olives to cooked quinoa and stir it all up with garlic and dry basil. Add chopped Second Nature California Almonds to it for added flavor, protein and healthy vitamins. Prepare it in bulk, package it up and store in the cooler for a healthy option.

Peanut Butter and Jelly

Pack your favorite hearty bread to make healthy PB&Js. It’s not the fanciest meal in the world, but it will curb your lunchtime hunger and keep your kids happy. Make it more interesting by bringing different types of jams to try. If you normally buy strawberry, see if your kids like blueberry too.

Pair your sandwich with chopped fruits and veggies for a complete meal. It’s so easy. Just chop, wrap and pack! Try small hummus packs for something easy to dip the veggies into. These are lifesavers for long car rides and they add some extra protein to your meal.

The more prepared you are, the more money you’ll save. Snacks and quick meals will keep money in your wallet and make your kids happy. Plan ahead for a smooth road trip vacation full of smiling faces.