Road-trip meals and snacks are often what makes the journey bearable. Before you hit the road to your holiday destination, check out these handy tips to pack your padkos.  

Ditch messy food 

The number one rule of padkos packing? Leave the messy food at home. Avoid food that can melt and smear, like chocolate and sticky sweets. These yummy (but messy) treats are a danger to any clean surface – especially if you’re travelling with kids. Grimy little chocolate-covered fingers can derail any road trip. Another thing, if you need utensils to eat your food, leave it at home. No one likes to fumble with cutlery in a moving car. Instead, pack spill-free snacks like individually wrapped cheeses, homemade granola bars and resealable bags filled with cucumber sticks and carrots. Not only are they healthier snacks, but your car will remain mess-free.  

Freeze water bottles 

Planning is crucial for a successful road trip. If you’re travelling on a hot day, remember to freeze water bottles and pack them with the food in your cooler bag. Not only will it keep your food cold, but as it slowly melts, you’ll have refreshing icy water to keep you cool and hydrated on your drive.  

Steer clear of take-aways 

It can be tempting to stop at every fast-food joint on the way to your destination. Ditch the takeaways and pack your own individually wrapped meals. Make a bag for each member of your family and fill it with a meal (like this sandwich), and give each their own snacks and drink. Not only can you prep the food beforehand, making it possible to customise everyone’s snacks according to what they like, but you avoid unnecessary spending on your trip.