Before planning meals, it is important to consider the type of place you will be staying during your vacation. For instance, a weeklong camping trip will require a menu quite different from a three-day stay at a fully furnished beach house. Make sure you are aware of exactly what cooking and serving materials will be available, including whether you will have an oven, stove, microwave, refrigerator and running water. Your meal plan will need to accommodate your supply list.
Choose a day about a week before your departure to sit down with a pen and paper and plan the menu for the vacation. Consider including any other family members who want to be a part of the process in this planning stage. Jot down the names of the days of the week you will be away, and then write down three meals for each day under the headings. Start a second list of groceries you will need to purchase for the meals either before departure or once you have arrived at your destination. Start a third list of cooking items---including pots, pans, baking dishes and utensils---that you will need to pack or purchase if these will not be available at your destination.
Choose simple and nutritious meals that require few ingredients and little preparation time to ensure that the vacation is relaxing for everyone. Cereal and frozen waffles make easy breakfasts and can be served with fresh fruit and yogurt. Lunch meats and cheeses can be piled on sliced bread and served with pretzels and baby carrots or celery sticks for an easy and satisfying lunch. Interchange these sandwiches with peanut butter and jelly or grilled cheese paired with apples or bananas. Pastas and homemade pizzas are easy to make for dinners using bottled sauces and premade crusts. Menu items such as these ensure that everyone enjoys the meals and no one has to spend her entire vacation in the kitchen.
