Whether you’re taking a long summer road trip or just going to visit family, finding healthy snacks for long car rides can be challenging. If you’re planning on spending an extended period in the car with family, friends, and kids, you’ll want to plan ahead to make sure you have plenty of nutritious snack options.
Here are some great ideas for healthy snacks to pack in your car when traveling this summer:
Nuts & Seeds
Nuts & seeds are a great source of protein and healthy fats. Pack some unsalted, plain almonds, walnuts, or pistachios for a crunchy snack that will leave you feeling satisfied. You could also opt for something like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a boost of fiber and minerals. Nuts and seeds are easy to pack in small bags or containers, so they’re perfect on the go.
Trail Mix
A classic car snack, a homemade trail mix will help keep your energy up as you travel. Choose some of your favorite nuts and seeds, add some dried fruit for sweetness, throw in some dark chocolate chips or pieces of coconut to satisfy the sweet tooth, then top it off with a handful of granola for an extra crunch. You can’t go wrong here, so toss what you like together and enjoy.
Click here for our Nutty Trail Mix recipe.
Fresh Fruit and Vegetables
Apples, pears, carrots, celery sticks, cherry tomatoes, grapes — the possibilities are endless! Include items that provide important nutrients like fiber and vitamins A and C. You can also opt for cucumbers, peppers, and broccoli for some extra crunch. Fresh fruit and vegetables are delicious snacks that will keep you feeling full longer than chips and candy. You could grab some pre-packaged containers of hummus or guacamole to enjoy with your raw veggies.
Flax Crackers
If you’re looking for something to dip into hummus or nut butter while on the road, choose some flax crackers or seed crackers. These are high in fiber, low in carbs, and still provide that crunchy satisfaction. Couple them with some of the fresh vegetables you’ve packed for a healthy snack combo!
Try our Flaxseed Cracker recipe here.
Beef Jerky
This one may seem like an odd choice, but beef jerky can actually be a great source of protein and minerals when traveling. Look for jerky made with grass-fed beef, and opt for the versions without added sugar or sodium. Beef jerky can be a great way to fuel up if you have a few hours left on the road!
Protein Bars or Shakes
If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, protein bars or shakes are great options. Choose ones that provide quality sources of protein while avoiding added sugars. These can be a perfect way to get your energy back up after a long day of travel.
No matter where summer takes you this year, being prepared with healthy snacks will make the trip much easier and more enjoyable. While it may seem like a hassle to prepare healthy snacks ahead of time, you’ll be glad you did when hunger strikes on your road trip. Pack plenty of nutritious snacks that will keep you feeling full and energized, so you can enjoy your travels to the fullest! Plus, it can be a fun activity to get the family involved in before the trip. So stock up on these healthy snack options and hit the road this summer! Bon voyage!
