Think food on the move has to mean junk food? Think again! Here is our essential guide to eating well, on the go. 

Eating in the car is something we all try and avoid. Be it to stop the kids from making a mess of your back seat or to stop you being distracted from the road, eating on the go isn’t ideal, but sometimes, it’s absolutely necessary. 

Whether it’s a stay-cation road-trip or a long commute, we’ve all been there, and usually, it ends in a drive-thru carb fest, a grab and go burger or a bag of delicious but sugary sweets! But, with a little preparation, a lot of willpower and some handy tips and tricks, it doesn’t have to ruin your diet, your waistline, or your journey, if hanger kicks in en route. 

Sushi

Delicious, fresh, and healthy, sushi makes for perfect for in-car eats because you don’t need a plate, you don’t need crockery, and you definitely don’t need to heat it up! Whatsmore, it’s relatively fuss-free, so no matter whether you’re passenger or driver, it’s easy to nibble on the go (as long as it’s not the driver adding the extra wasabi, of course!). 

You can pack it before you set off (we’d advise keeping a cool-bag in the car, and taking it out of the boot before you set off), or you can grab and go en route from Chow (find your nearest). 

Fruit (M&S)

Bursting with flavour, and sure to tantalise your taste buds, fruit is a perfect nibble on the go that’s mess-free, healthy and can be eaten with just your hands! Bringing fruit from home is great, because it’s cheap and easy, but don’t forget to pack a bag for rubbish – you don’t want apple cores or banana skins left in your glovebox! 

Alternatively, there are loads of on the go options you can pick up in pots from M&S or WH Smith that are seedless, peeled and ready to eat! Pear-fect!

Nuts

A great source of good fats, protein, and fibre, nuts are another great snack to keep in the car. Whatsmore, they don’t require a cool bag, they last longer than fruit once opened, and are super easy to munch without making a mess – there are no crumbs, no juice and no sticky fingers! Just pop a packed of non-salted almonds, macadamias or cashews in the car before you set off, et voila; sugar-free in-car snacking!

Healthier meal deal 

If you’re a little too hungry for a handful of nuts, a meal deal could be the answer. It’s not greasy, it’s easy to eat and it can be healthy; just step away from the ham and cheese sandwiches! If you lean more towards a salad than a sarnie, opt for fruit or yoghurt over crisps or sweets, and grab a bottle of water or sugar-free juice instead of a fizzy drink, you’re onto a winner. 

We would, of course, recommend, that you save this option for passengers unless you have enough time to pull in and enjoy! WHSmith offers a brilliant range of healthier choices as part of their meal deal, and you can find your nearest Moto branch, here. 

Smoothie 

Staying hydrated in the car is essential; dehydration can lead to drowsiness and slow down reaction times, so keep a bottle of water in the car at all times. However, sometimes, water just won’t cut it. So, if you find yourself in need of a pick me up, why not switch out coffee and a croissant for a healthy, vitamin-packed smoothie? Prep the night before at home or grab on the go and enjoy as breakfast from a bottle, or a light snack between meals. 

Don’t forget though, whilst you can eat in the car, it’s much safer to take regular breaks in long journeys rather than eating on the go, so make sure you plan stops into any long journeys you’re taking. Worth remembering too, that whilst eating or drinking whilst driving is not illegal, if eating or drinking means you aren’t in full control of your vehicle, and the police deem you to be distracted by your behaviours, you could land yourself with 3 points and a £100 on-the-spot fine!