Packing a healthy, tasty lunch for your child to take to camp doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether your child is 4 or 14, a well-balanced lunch helps them stay energised, focused, and ready for all the fun of the day. Involving kids in the planning and packing helps them learn about healthy eating and feel more ownership over what they eat.
What Makes a Healthy Packed Lunch?
A balanced lunch includes a mix of these food groups:
- Fruits & Vegetables – fresh, frozen, or dried; aim for a variety of colours and textures
- Proteins – such as lean meats, eggs, beans, lentils, cheese, or yogurt
- Carbohydrates – whole grain breads, wraps, pasta, or rice for energy
- Dairy or dairy alternatives – like cheese, yogurt, or milk-based drinks
- Water – the best drink to stay hydrated during active camp days
Refresh your knowledge on eating well with the Eatwell Guide!
Note: Most camps are nut-free environments, so be sure to avoid nuts and nut-based products such as, peanut butter, Nutella (and other hazelnut spreads), pesto, sesame seeds and other nuts like cashews and almonds. Remember to check the ingredients in pre-bought foods especially in things like breakfast bars!
Lunchbox Packing Tips
- Use an insulated lunch bag with a frozen ice pack to keep perishable items cool
- Invest in a good-quality thermos to keep hot food warm until lunchtime
- Pack napkins or wipes for easy clean-up, especially for little ones
- Cut food into smaller portions to make it easier for younger kids to eat independently. Read the Food Standards Agency’s advice on Food Choking Hazards
Getting Kids Involved in Making Their Own Lunch
Children are more likely to eat (and enjoy!) their lunch if they’ve helped make it. Even young children can:
- Choose fruit or veg to pack
- Spread hummus, cream cheese, or butter
- Help fill snack boxes or portion out crackers
- Pick which wrap or sandwich filling they want
- Decorate a lunchbox note or label
Older kids can learn to:
- Boil pasta or rice
- Chop soft fruits (with supervision)
- Prepare simple salads or snack pots
- Pack their own lunch from a list of healthy choices
Making lunch together can be a great routine and teaches life skills that build independence and confidence.
Simple, Healthy Packed Lunch Ideas
Rainbow Veggie Wraps
- Whole wheat wrap with hummus or soft cheese
- Grated carrot, cucumber sticks, sweetcorn, and cooked chicken or beans
- Roll it up! Why not slice into fun pinwheels for younger children
Pasta Salad Pot
- Cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, sweetcorn, and grated cheese
- Optional: add shredded chicken or chickpeas
DIY Lunchable Box
- Sliced cheese, whole grain crackers or mini pitta
- Sliced apple, grapes, or dried apricots
- Cucumber sticks or baby tomatoes
- A small homemade muffin or flapjack
Thermos Warmers (for variety)
- Pasta with veggie-packed tomato sauce
- Rice with cooked chicken and peas
- Warm bean and cheese quesadilla slices
Pack warm foods in a thermos if your child prefers hot lunches - just heat thoroughly in the morning.
Snacks & Sides
- Yogurt pouch or tube (can be frozen overnight)
- Homemade oat bar or banana muffin
- Veggie sticks with a small pot of cream cheese or tzatziki
- Rice cakes or popcorn
- Fresh fruit slices
Have a look at these 30 snack recipes for kids! – Don’t forget to keep it nut free!
Don't Forget!
- Keep portions appropriate to your child’s age and appetite
- Variety is key - switch things up throughout the week
- Talk about food with your child - What do they enjoy?
- Pack a refillable water bottle and remind them to drink often
Why not also read our blog on The ULTIMATE checklist for parents- What to Pack in a Child’s Day Camp Backpack!