BIG4 promotes healthy eating

BIG4 Holiday Parks has come to the rescue of RV travellers who struggle to maintain a healthy diet when on the road.

The leading holiday park chain, which promotes about 180 holiday parks around Australia, has issued some handy hints designed to take the stress out of creating a healthy menu, while giving you more time to enjoy your holiday.

PLAN, PLAN, PLAN

Avoid spending your holiday time aimlessly wandering supermarket aisles wondering what to cook by creating a meal plan before you leave home.

Depending on your holiday style, write a list of quick and healthy meals or alternatively use the time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life to create that Masterchef style dish you’ve been waiting to try but just didn’t have the time.

Whether you’re in a self-contained cabin with your own kitchen or camping and making use of the camp kitchen, you’ll have access to ovens, microwaves, grills and even cooking utensils so the options are endless.

BRING THE PANTRY STAPLES FROM HOME

Most of the time we end up buying at least some food on holiday, but try bringing pantry staples from home and you’ll be surprised how much money you can save.

You generally only need a small of amount of oil, spices or flour etc but buying a whole bag or bottle on holiday adds up quickly, eating into your funds that could be better spent on having fun.

Trying to fit everything in the car or caravan can be tough at the best of times, so leave behind bulky ingredients by measuring them ahead of time and store them in snap lock bags or containers. This will save on space and reduce preparation time at your destination.

CHECK OUT THE LOCAL PRODUCE

While you’re planning your holiday meals, it’s a good idea to look into what produce and local specialities are on offer in the region you’re staying in.

Unless you’re well off the beaten track, most stop-offs are close to popular farmers markets, renowned wineries or famed seafood capitals.

Not only will the ingredients be fresh and delicious, but locally bought produce is often cheaper than the supermarket.

SHARE THE LOAD

Even if you enjoy cooking and don’t mind spending time in the kitchen cooking up a treat for everyone, try to share the load so you get a break and enjoy the holiday too.

Cooking can be fun if everyone pitches in and it’s a great time to socialise with friends or bond with the kids. Don’t sweat the small stuff and just enjoy your time together creating and eating a delicious, healthy holiday meal.

STUCK FOR IDEAS

For some simple, tasty and healthy holiday meal ideas, visit BIG4’s blog, where you will find a free recipes book full of delicious holiday meals available for download.

There are also some great, printed books on the topic, like the Complete Caravan Chef, and handy products that make healthy eating on the road a breeze, like this thermal cooker from Dreampot.