Healthy Snacks on the Go

With the sun shining and water beckoning, August makes for tip-top trip weather. Whether camping, road tripping, or flying to a luxurious getaway destination, there’s something about the last month of summer that seems to make people want to go, go, go.  

Unfortunately, all this hustle and bustle can leave less time to eat, eat, eat. And is it just me, or does airport food taste faintly like plastic? The prices suggest gourmet dishes, but somehow I always end up with a cardboard-dry sandwich.

When packing healthier snacks on the go, I keep the following factors in mind. (Bonus: these snack ideas work just as well if your exciting travel plans involve hurrying to work in the morning!)

Easy to make

When I’m rushing to pack (and repack, because I have to fit in another unnecessary pair of shoes), the last thing I want to do is spend hours cooking. Simplicity is my best friend when time is ticking.

Dried or fresh fruit—an apple or banana, maybe a handful of grapes—is about as simple as it gets in terms of preparation. Walnuts, almonds, and pistachios are yummy too ... though loud crunchers may not want to indulge on a crowded plane. Veggies such as cherry tomatoes, baby carrots, cucumbers, and broccoli are other reliable munchies, especially with a scoop of hummus. (But make sure to check food and beverage allowances if heading to the airport. As I've learned while chugging water in the check-in lineup, most flights permit only 100 mL of any liquid—even dips and yogurt!)

Filling

Tiny airplane packets of salty crackers and too-sweet cookies start to look more appealing when my stomach is grumbling. Thankfully, recipes like these are filling and fibrous:

• fibre-filled Scuffins (that’s a scone and muffin combo for any laymen)
• Super Snack Bars with dark chocolate and almonds
• Orange Coconut Fruit Balls

Hydrating

Travel is thirst-inducing work: there’s the lack of responsibilities, lounging in the sun, sleeping in. (Phew, I’m exhausted just thinking about it.) Coconut water is fabulous fuel for long car rides or as a pick-me-up before arriving at the airport. Likewise, this Smoothie on the Run might replace drive-thru drinks as your morning beverage of choice.

Snacking potential

Getaways are fun, but the commute in between can be cramped and boring. Snacking makes the time pass more quickly; most chips and crackers, however, aren’t very energy-boosting. Homemade replacements with just as much crunch include Almond Hemp Crackers and DIY Granola with rolled oats and dried apples. (Yum!)

Do you have a favourite grab-and-go snack that you never leave home without? Pass on your travel-food tips via the comments below, Facebook, or Twitter.