“Over the river and through the woods, to grandmother’s house we go!”
My siblings and I used to sing that song on the way to my grandma and grandpa’s house, riding along in our side-paneled station wagon. Chances are, this holiday season, you may be attending a gathering where you’re bringing food. There are steps you can take to ensure your prepared food arrives at your destination safely. to avoid the risk of food poisoning. Getting sick does not usually result in great memories.
Remember the two hour rule: Avoid leaving perishable foods at room temperature (or car temperature in this case) for more than two hours.
Important note: Just because it is cold outside, don’t rely on trunk temperatures to be low enough for food storage. Sunlight could warm your trunk to unsafe temperatures, resulting in unsafe food temperatures. The same goes for garages. Don’t use these places for refrigeration!
When transporting food, keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold at safe temperatures.
*Hot food must be kept at or above 140⁰F and should be wrapped well and placed in an insulated container, such as a cooler (Yes coolers work to keep foods not only cold, but hot as well). I also like to wrap my hot dishes in towels for added insulation before placing them into a cooler. 
*Place cold foods in a cooler with ice or freezer packs or an insulated container with an ice pack so they remain at 40°F or lower, especially if traveling longer than 30 minutes.
When you arrive at your destination, place hot foods in an oven hot enough to keep the food at an internal temperature of 140°F or above. Place cold foods in a refrigerator. Use a food thermometer to assure that the food stays at a safe internal temperature. Try to serve foods soon after your arrival.
Another option would be to transport your ingredients in a cooler, then make your dish on location.
People traveling a long distance might bring non-perishables such as breads and cookies. Those traveling about a half an hour or less can more safely bring perishables items such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products or foods containing these items. Close guests are also good candidates to provide salads, relishes and vegetables.
Keep these simple tips in mind to have a safe, happy holiday season with your family and friends!
contributed by Jill Jensen, former AnswerLine Specialist
Best tips to save food while traveling. Thanks.