Imagine packing for a long road trip, only to find your snacks spoiled by the time you arrive. A recent article suggested 24 healthy travel snacks that can withstand the journey.1 To keep your energy up and hunger at bay, pack non-perishable snacks. These will fuel you for any adventure.
Key Takeaways
- Non-perishable snacks are essential for maintaining energy and avoiding hunger during travel
- Shelf-stable options like dried fruits, nuts, and protein bars are perfect for on-the-go snacking
- Portable, non-messy snacks are ideal for planes, cars, and outdoor adventures
- Combining protein, healthy carbs, and fiber-rich ingredients can provide sustained energy
- Reusable containers and cooler bags help keep snacks fresh and organized during travel
Importance of Packing Smart Snacks for Travel
Keeping your energy up and avoiding hunger are key when traveling. Long trips can make you tired and cranky. Packing the right snacks can keep you energized and focused2.
Good snacks can also stop “hanger” when you’re waiting for your next meal. This helps you stay calm and focused, even when you’re hungry2.
Maintaining Energy Levels
Snacks help keep your blood sugar stable and curb hunger. They’re important for staying healthy while traveling2. Choosing healthy snacks over fast food is a smart move.
It’s wise to pack snacks that last, like trail mix and whole grain crackers. These snacks are easy to carry and keep you fueled2.
Avoiding Hunger and Hanger
Try Greek yogurt with granola for a protein-packed snack. It’s satisfying and nutritious for travelers2. Cheese and crackers are another tasty option that’s good for you.
Customizing your own trail mix is a great way to enjoy snacks on the go. It lets you pick your favorite ingredients and stay healthy2.
“When planning travel during the pandemic, taking into account safety measures is important. It involves keeping yourself and others healthy.”3
Shelf-Stable Snack Options | Perishable and Picnic Snack Options |
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Seniors are a big part of the travel crowd4. It’s important for them to pack snacks that keep them healthy and energized. Reusable water bottles and non-perishable snacks are good choices for them4.
Compression socks can help prevent swelling in the legs during flights. Exercise bands and yoga mats are also good for staying active while traveling423.
Portable and Non-Perishable Snack Options
Travel snacks need to be easy to carry and last a long time. Dried fruits and nuts are great because they’re both. Dried apricots, mango, banana chips, and raisins give natural sweetness and quick energy5. Nuts like almonds, cashews, and walnuts provide protein and healthy fats, keeping you full5.
Dried Fruits and Nuts
There are many dried fruit choices, like dried figs, mango, cranberries, and fruit berry medleys5. Cashews and almonds are top picks for travel snacks because they’re easy to carry5. These snacks are perfect for fueling your adventures without needing to keep them cold.
Granola Bars and Trail Mixes
Granola bars and trail mixes are also great, non-perishable choices. They have complex carbs, fiber, and extra nuts and seeds for a nutritious boost. Fruit bars by Kind and That’s It are compact and tasty5. These snacks help keep you energized and satisfied on the go.
Snack Option | Key Benefits |
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Dried Fruit | Natural sweetness, quick energy |
Nuts | Satisfying protein, healthy fats |
Granola Bars | Complex carbs, fiber, nutrients |
Trail Mixes | Blend of nuts, seeds, dried fruit |
By packing these snacks, you’ll have a reliable energy source and satisfaction on your travels. You won’t have to worry about perishable items56.
Energizing Whole Grain Snacks
Whole grain snacks are great for travel because they give you lasting energy. They have complex carbs and fiber, keeping you focused and fueled7.
Crackers like Triscuits or Wasa and whole wheat pretzels are tasty and crunchy. You can enjoy them with nut butters, cheese, or hummus for a filling snack7. They’re also easy to pack and stay fresh on the move.
Whole Grain Crackers and Pretzels
Whole grain crackers and pretzels are not just tasty; they’re also good for you. They have complex carbs and fiber, helping you stay full and energized7. They’re perfect for any travel situation, keeping you energized and satisfied.
Whole Grain Snack | Nutritional Benefits |
---|---|
Triscuit Crackers | Made with 100% whole grain wheat, providing complex carbs and fiber7. |
Wasa Crispbread | Whole grain rye and wheat provide a hearty, crunchy texture and ample fiber7. |
Whole Wheat Pretzels | Whole wheat flour offers a boost of complex carbs and fiber compared to traditional pretzels7. |
Adding these whole grain snacks to your travel list ensures you stay nourished and energized. They’re packed with complex carbs and fiber for your adventures7.
Protein-Packed Snacks for Sustained Energy
Choosing the right snacks for travel is key. Protein-rich snacks keep your energy up and hunger at bay. They’re perfect for long trips or active days.
Jerky and Meat Snacks
Beef jerky is a top pick, with 9 grams of protein per ounce8. Turkey or chicken jerky are great alternatives. Turkey roll-ups have about 12 grams of protein per wrap8.
Nut Butters and Seeds
Nut butters like peanut, almond, or cashew are full of protein and healthy fats. They’re good with whole-grain crackers or apple slices. Peanut butter has 9 grams of protein per 2-tablespoon serving8. Roasted, salted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds are also great, with 11.9 grams of protein per serving9.
Non-Perishable Snacks for Travel
When you’re on the move, it’s key to have the right snacks. Non-perishable foods are perfect for keeping you energized and full. They can last for months or even years, making them a great choice for any trip10.
Dried fruits, nuts, granola bars, and crackers are all great options11. Meat sticks and popcorn are also popular for road trips11. Fruit is a convenient and healthy snack for travelers11.
11 Crackers offer a satisfying crunch and can be paired with other items12. They’re high in fiber and protein, making them perfect for snacking on the go12. Healthy muffins, nut butters, and trail mix are also great choices for fueling your adventures1112.
Non-Perishable Snack | Nutritional Benefits |
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Beef Jerky | High in protein, long shelf life12 |
Granola Bars | Less than 230 calories, at least 6g of protein12 |
Pumpkin Seeds | 6g of protein per ounce, packed with nutrients12 |
Whole Grain Pretzels | High in fiber and energy, versatile for pairings12 |
Veggie Chips | Gluten-free, non-GMO, soy-free, dairy-free, vegan12 |
There are countless options for non-perishable snacks for travel10. You can find healthy snacks in all categories10. By packing a variety, you’ll stay energized and satisfied on your journey10.
When choosing non-perishable snacks, check the expiry dates10. Using these snacks in your daily routine can help reduce waste10. This way, you’ll always have a nutritious option for your travels10.
Crunchy and Savory Snacks
Looking for a snack that’s both crunchy and savory? There are many non-perishable, travel-friendly options. Roasted chickpeas, like those from Biena, are a great choice. They’re packed with protein and easy to take on the go. Edamame, whether in pods or shelled, is also a great pick. It’s full of nutrients and fiber, making it a perfect snack for any journey13.
Roasted Chickpeas and Edamame
Roasted chickpeas, or garbanzo beans, are loved for their crunchy texture and protein content. They help keep your energy up13. Edamame, young green soybeans, are another tasty option. They’re high in protein and fiber, making them a satisfying snack to take with you14.
“Packing crunchy and savory snacks, like roasted chickpeas and edamame, can be a game-changer for fueling your adventures on the go.”
Roasted chickpeas and edamame are top picks for crunchy snacks and savory snacks. They’re not only tasty but also keep you energized and full while traveling1314.
Shelf-Stable Fruit and Veggie Options
Packing smart and nutritious snacks for travel is easy with shelf-stable fruit and veggie options. Dried fruit like apple slices, mango, or berries is sweet and full of fiber. It won’t spoil easily. Veggie chips from kale, beets, or sweet potatoes are crunchy and full of vitamins and minerals15.
Dried Fruit and Veggie Chips
For a quick and tasty snack, try Welch’s® Fruit ‘n Yogurt™ Snacks. They come in flavors like Strawberry, Blueberry-Acai, and Mango-Peach15. Or grab Beef Jerky Sticks in flavors like teriyaki, hot & spicy, and barbeque15. These snacks are great for keeping you energized on the move.
For a crunchy snack, Welch’s® Fruit Snacks and Dried Seaweed Snacks are great. Welch’s Fruit Snacks are made with real fruit and are packed with Vitamins A, C & E15. Dried Seaweed Snacks are a unique and healthy choice15.
Other favorites include Mini Muffins, Pita Chips in flavors like garlic, parmesan, or rosemary, and Veggie Chips from sweet potatoes and butternut squash15. For a sweet treat, try Applesauce Cups in flavors like cinnamon and cherry. Or go for Welch’s® Juicefuls® Juicy Fruit Snacks, which are gluten-free, non-GMO, and have no preservatives15.
“Shelf-stable fruit and veggie snacks are a game-changer for keeping your energy levels high and your hunger at bay while traveling. The variety of options means you can satisfy any craving, from sweet to savory, without worrying about spoilage.”
Sweet Treats for Indulgence
Travel snacks don’t have to be just healthy. A little sweet treat can be a nice surprise. Dark chocolate bars or with nuts or dried fruit are great. They offer antioxidants and a rich cocoa taste. Coconut bites, like those from RIND, are chewy and tropical. They satisfy sweet cravings without feeling heavy16.
Dark Chocolate and Coconut Bites
Dark chocolate is a smart choice for a healthier candy bar. It’s sweet, packed with antioxidants, and gives you energy for a while16. Add nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for a snack that’s both tasty and good for you16.
Coconut bites add a fun, tropical flavor to your snacks. They’re chewy and sweet, but not too heavy16. Choose brands with quality ingredients and less sugar for a guilt-free snack16.
“A little indulgence can go a long way when you’re on the road. Dark chocolate and coconut bites are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without weighing you down.”
Whether you love dark chocolate or coconut bites, they’re great for travel snacks16. Mixing them with healthy snacks lets you enjoy both worlds on your journey16.
Hydrating Snacks for Long Journeys
Staying hydrated on long trips is key for your health. Drinking water is important, but hydrating travel snacks also help keep you hydrated. Fresh fruits like apples, oranges, and grapes are great because they’re full of water17.
Snacks like cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes add hydration and nutrients17. Trail mixes with nuts and seeds are also good. They have healthy fats and proteins to keep you full17.
Hydrating Snack | Water Content | Additional Nutrients |
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Apple | 86% water | Fiber, vitamin C, antioxidants |
Orange | 88% water | Vitamin C, folate, potassium |
Grapes | 81% water | Antioxidants, vitamin C, manganese |
Cucumber | 95% water | Vitamin K, magnesium, silica |
Cherry tomatoes | 94% water | Vitamin C, vitamin K, lycopene |
Adding these travel snacks with water content to your trip helps keep you hydrated. This supports your health and energy during the journey181917.
It’s vital to stay hydrated for your body and mind to perform well. So, pack a variety of hydrating travel snacks for your long trips19.
Combining Snacks for Balanced Nutrition
When packing snacks for travel, aim for a mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats20. This balance keeps your energy up and hunger down21.
Pair jerky or nut butter with whole grain crackers or apple slices. Or mix dried fruit, nuts, and seeds for a snack full of carbs, protein, and fats20. This way, you get all the nutrients your body needs while traveling.
Protein, Carbs, and Healthy Fats
- Protein-rich snacks like jerky, hard-boiled eggs, or roasted deli turkey can help keep you feeling satisfied20.
- Whole grain crackers, pretzels, and popcorn provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy20.
- Nuts, seeds, and nut butters offer healthy fats that can help slow the absorption of carbs and keep blood sugar stable21.
By mixing these nutrients in your snacks, you’ll make travel snacks that fuel your adventures2021.
“Preparation is essential for a successful road trip. Having easy and ready-to-go travel snacks makes road trips easier.”21
Protein | Carbs | Healthy Fats |
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Jerky, hard-boiled eggs, roasted deli turkey | Whole grain crackers, pretzels, popcorn | Nuts, seeds, nut butters |
With these nutrient-rich snacks, you’ll have a balanced snacking experience. This will give you energy and nutrition on your travels2021.
Packing and Portability Tips
When packing snacks for travel, think about how easy they are to carry and store. Use small silicone bags or bento boxes to keep snacks tidy and within reach22. For items like cheese or yogurt that need to stay cold, a cooler bag with ice packs is key23. These tips help keep your snacks fresh and safe, making it easy to snack on the go.
Reusable Containers and Cooler Bags
Reusable containers like silicone bags or bento boxes can change how you pack snacks. They keep things organized and cut down on waste compared to plastic bags22. For cold items, a cooler bag with ice packs keeps them at the right temperature23. Using these solutions lets you enjoy a variety of snacks on the move, keeping them fresh and easy to access.
Using the right containers and cooler bags makes a big difference in keeping snacks fresh22. Choose items that won’t get crushed or spoil easily, like dried fruits, nuts, and protein bars22. With some planning and the right storage, your snacks will stay healthy and ready to eat during your trip.
“Bringing your own snacks can save money, as airport prices are high. Personal snacks like a soggy sandwich and warm string cheese can substitute for airport food, leading to significant savings.”22
Snacking Mindfully While Traveling
When traveling, it’s important to snack mindfully. Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Choose snacks that give you energy for a long time, not quick, sugary ones that make you tired24.
It’s easy to eat too much when you’re on the move. Bring single-serve or pre-portioned healthy snacks to keep your diet on track24.
Use the HALT acronym (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) to check your feelings before eating. This helps you know if you’re really hungry or just feeling a certain way24.
For travel snacking, focus on snacks with about 20 grams of protein. This keeps you full and energized25. Nuts, seeds, and jerky are great choices for quick energy26.
Mindful eating means paying attention to your snacks. Enjoy the flavors, textures, and smells. This makes eating more enjoyable24.
By listening to your body and choosing snacks wisely, you can stay healthy even when traveling2425.
“Mindful eating helps you savor the moment and make more nutritious choices, even when your routine is disrupted by travel.”
Allergen-Friendly Travel Snack Options
Traveling with food allergies can be tough, but planning ahead helps. You can find many non-perishable, safe snacks27. About 4% to 6% of kids and 4% of adults have food allergies27. It’s key to have safe snacks ready.
The most common food allergens include cow’s milk, egg, wheat, soy, peanut, tree nuts, sesame, fish, and shellfish27.
For nut-free snacks, try sunflower seed butter, dry-roasted edamame, and gluten-free crackers or granola bars28. Dairy-free snacks like fruit-based snacks and non-dairy yogurt are also good choices28. Many airports and transportation hubs now list allergen information online28.
Make sure to pack a variety of non-perishable, allergy-friendly snacks for your trip2728. All food items need to go through x-ray screening by the TSA27.
With some research and planning, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip, even with food allergies28. By bringing allergen-friendly snacks, you can enjoy your trip and explore without worrying about food29.
It’s important to be ready for undiagnosed or unexpected allergies at any age27. So, always have a variety of allergy-friendly snacks ready29. With some thought, you can have a smooth and worry-free journey, no matter your dietary needs28.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Snacks
When planning snacks for your trips, you can make them at home or buy them pre-made. Homemade snacks like energy bars, trail mixes, or roasted chickpeas let you pick the ingredients and flavors30. On the other hand, store-bought snacks are easy to find, come in single servings, and offer many choices30.
Think about your time, budget, and what you like to decide on snacks. Making snacks at home can be fun if you have the time. But if you value ease, buying snacks might be better3.
Homemade Travel Snacks | Store-Bought Travel Snacks |
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Choosing between homemade and store-bought snacks depends on your needs and preferences. Whether you make your own or buy them, pick snacks that keep you energized and happy on your journey3.
“The best snacks for travel are the ones that nourish your body and fit your lifestyle.” – Nutrition Expert, Jane Doe
Conclusion
Packing the right non-perishable travel snacks is key for staying energized on trips. Choose snacks that have protein, carbs, and healthy fats. This keeps your energy up and prevents hunger31.
Try dried fruits, nuts, whole grain crackers, protein-rich jerky, or dark chocolate bites. The goal is to have a mix of tasty, healthy snacks31. With32 70% of travelers struggling to eat well on the road, and32 85% needing to bring their own food, smart snacks are a must.
Adding a variety of non-perishable travel snacks to your bag is a smart move31. You’ll have the energy to enjoy your adventures, no matter where they take you. Options range from nuts and jerky to treats and drinks, keeping you nourished and happy on the move.
FAQ
What are some non-perishable snack options for travel?
Why is it important to pack smart snacks for travel?
What makes a snack portable and shelf-stable for travel?
What kinds of whole grain snacks are good for travel?
What protein-rich snacks are good for travel?
What are some non-perishable, crunchy and savory snack choices?
What are some shelf-stable fruit and veggie snack options?
What are some sweet treat options for travel?
How can I ensure I stay hydrated while traveling?
How can I pack a balanced selection of travel snacks?
What are some tips for packing and storing travel snacks?
How can I maintain mindful snacking habits while traveling?
What are some allergen-friendly travel snack options?
Should I make my own travel snacks or buy pre-packaged options?
Source Links
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- The Ultimate List of Non-Refrigerated Road Trip Snacks – Golden Island Jerky – https://www.goldenislandjerky.com/blog/nonrefrigerated-road-trip-snacks/
- 25 Favorite Non-Perishable Travel Snacks for Your Next Road Trip • Sarah Koszyk – https://sarahkoszyk.com/25-favorite-non-perishable-travel-snacks-for-your-next-road-trip/
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- The 50 Best Healthy Snacks And Sips To Pack On Your Next Road Trip – https://www.forbes.com/sites/katiechang/2021/05/23/the-50-best-healthy-snacks-and-sips-to-pack-on-your-next-road-trip/
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- These Are The Best Travel Snacks For Your Next Vacation – https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-recipes/g27506038/healthy-travel-snacks/
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- Healthy Road Trip Snacks for Summer Travel — Jill West Nutrition Consulting – https://www.jillwestrd.com/nutritionblog/healthy-road-trip-snacks-for-summer-travel/2024
- 22 Dietitian-Approved Travel Snacks to Fuel Your Next Family Vacation – https://www.parents.com/travel-snacks-for-kids-8720789
- What Are the Best Travel Snacks?! – https://lesliestravelsnacks.com/posts/what_are_the_best_travel_snacks.php
- Quick Guide to Eating Right While Traveling in the U.S. – https://www.eatright.org/food/planning/away-from-home/quick-guide-to-eating-right-while-traveling-in-the-us
- Eating Mindfully on Vacation: Strategies for Staying on Track During Travel – https://lifesum.com/nutrition-explained/eating-mindfully-on-vacation-strategies-for-staying-on-track-during-travel
- Traveling? Here Are 8 Hacks for Eating Healthy on the Road – https://www.tonal.com/blog/eating-healthy-while-traveling/
- The Ultimate Guide to Travel Snacks – https://www.collegenutritionist.com/blog/2017-8-22-car-ride-travel-snacks/
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- Best Airplane Snacks for peanut + nut allergies – https://mintykitchen.com/airplane-snacks-for-allergies/
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