It’s easy to grab chips, soda or sugary snacks when you hit the road. But with some planning, you can pack healthy snacks that will keep you energized and satisfied while you are on your adventure. Here are 10 of the best healthy road trip snack ideas that are easy to pack and eat on the move. They are also delicious, nutritious, and tasty.
1. Trail mix with Dried Fruit and Nuts
The classic trail mix is still popular today! It is portable, customizable and has a good balance of carbs, protein and healthy fats. Add a mixture of almonds or cashews or walnuts or pistachios to your mix for healthy fats. Then add dried fruits such as raisins, apricots or cranberries to give it a natural sweetness. Add a few chocolate chips if you want to indulge. This snack is nutrient dense, filling and will provide you with steady energy during long drives.
Tip : Avoid mixes that contain sugar or salt and choose unsweetened dried fruits.
2. Fresh Fruit
Fruits like grapes, apples, oranges and bananas can be eaten fresh and do not require refrigeration. Apples and bananas are rich in fiber and sugar, and provide a quick boost of energy without the crash. Grapes are convenient because you can put them in a container and eat them one by one. Fruits are also hydrating and help counter the dry air inside cars.
Tip If you’re planning a long trip, try fruits such as clementines. They are easier to peel and do not require refrigeration.
3. Vegetables and Hummus
Pack a small hummus container with carrots, celery, bell peppers and cucumbers for a healthy snack. Hummus contains healthy fats and protein, making it a filling snack. You can buy single-serving hummus in most grocery stores if you are worried about spills. A combination of hummus and crunchy vegetables is a great snack to take on the road.
Tip If you find it difficult to cool down hummus, try using nut butters or Greek yogurt based dips. They are great for vegetables.
4. Whole Grain Crackers with Cheese
Try pairing whole-grain cheese crackers with crackers for a snack packed with protein that won’t require refrigeration (at the very least, for a couple of hours). Choose individually wrapped cheese slices or mini wedges that are easy to grab. The cheese provides calcium and protein, and the whole grain crackers provide fiber and complex carbohydrates. This snack is a healthy, balanced one.
Tip Choose crackers made from whole grains or seeds to ensure that your carbs are high in fiber, and low in sugar.
5. Energy Balls
These energy balls are perfect for road trips. They are usually made from a mixture of nuts, oats and dried fruits, which is then bound with honey or nut butter. Make your own batch with oats and almond butter. Add chia seeds for sweetness, as well as a few chocolate chips. These bite-sized snacks, which are packed with fiber, protein and healthy fats can help you to stave off hunger without having to eat a large meal.
Tip : Store the ice packs in an airtight container so that they stay fresh and are easy to reach while traveling.
6. Greek Yogurt Parfaits
Greek yogurt parfaits make a great snack if you have a cooler. They are refreshing and full of protein. For a healthy, probiotic parfait on the go, layer Greek yogurt in small containers with granola. Greek yogurt contains calcium and protein, and berries provide antioxidants and sweetness. Granola gives this snack a crunchy texture, and it is rich in fiber.
Tip Make your own granola or choose low-sugar granolas to reduce sugars and increase nutritional value.
7. Hard Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs can be a great way to stay satiated on a long road trip. They are easy, nutritious and full of protein. You can boil the eggs ahead of time and peel them before storing them in a cooler. The eggs are rich in protein, healthy fats and vitamins B12 and D. They also contain essential vitamins such as vitamin B12.
Tip Sprinkle some salt and pepper over each egg before packaging for a quick flavor boost.
8. Rice cakes with Nut Butter
Rice cakes with peanut or almond butter are a delicious, crunchy snack you can easily assemble while on the move. The rice cakes are low in calories, while the nut butter provides protein and healthy fats. This makes for a balanced, filling snack. Add sliced bananas, cinnamon or even a sprinkle to give it a little extra sweetness and flavor.
Tip : Use single serving nut butter packets for easier portion control and less mess.
9. Popcorn
Popcorn is both crunchy and lightweight. Choose air-popped or lightly salted pre-popped popcorn for a healthier option. It’s a whole grain so you can satisfy your cravings and add fiber to your diet. If you want something savory, but don’t like greasy chips, this is the perfect option.
Tip : Avoid flavors that contain sugars or artificial additives to make popcorn healthier.
10. Homemade Protein Bars
Make your own bars instead of buying them in the store! Ingredients like almond butter, honey, protein powder and dried fruits can be used. You can customize homemade bars to suit your tastes and dietary requirements. They also avoid preservatives and added sugars found in some commercial bars. These bars are a great way to curb your hunger while on the go. They contain a combination of complex carbohydrates, protein and fiber.
Tip – Wrap the snacks individually to make them easier to snack on. If they contain chocolate or peanut butter, keep them in the fridge if you think that it might melt.
These healthy snack choices will make your next road trip both fun and nutritious. Plan ahead and pack a cooler, if necessary, to keep your energy levels up. Enjoy the trip with healthy snacks. Happy traveling!