We've all been in situations while we're traveling where we have to wait longer than anticipated and feel like we're starving. During times like those, we scope out our options in the airport or train station only to find that our healthy options are usually very limited (and generally overpriced as well). Then, you begin feeling desperate and the Cinnabon stand starts looking really good, even though you know you won't feel good about that snack later. This article will help you plan ahead, keep your energy levels balanced when you travel, and stay healthy even while on the go.
These convenient snacks can travel with you so you'll always have a healthy snack at your fingertips! When shopping for a healthy travel snack, look for foods that give you energy without a lot of sugar or caffeine. Snacks that are high in protein will keep you feeling full longer.
Healthy travel snacks that meet these criteria include:
Nuts - Just about any type of nuts are a good choice to keep your energy high (in moderation).
Trail mix - Trail mix generally includes a combination of nuts and dried fruits.
Travel-size peanut butter (Jif makes these in single-serve, disposable containers now)
Granola bars (just make sure they don't have too much sugar)
Energy bars - There are a lot of these on the market now, choose energy bars with low sugar and good flavor such as:
Larabars - a "raw" energy bar that tastes amazing, all fruit & nuts, no added sugar, and come in flavors like "cherry pie"
Clif bars - Try the "chocolate chip" flavor. It tastes like a cross between a brownie and a chocolate chip cookie!
Luna bars - "Nutz over chocolate" is one of the best flavors in this brand.
Another consideration is the convenience factor. You want snacks that are easy to carry with you and don't require refrigeration. Fruit is always a good snack, but can be difficult to transport and sometimes spoils easily.
A great alternative to fresh fruit is a "fruit leather." These are made of 100% fruit (no added sugar) and can even be made from organic fruits. Fruit leathers look like a fruit roll-up, but are much healthier for you. They come in many flavors including: mango, apricot, blackberry, strawberry, grape, apple, cherry, and more. You can find them in Trader Joe's, Henry's Marketplace, and some Whole Foods-like stores.
Healthy fruit snacks include:
Fresh fruit - Including apple, banana, grapes, etc. if you can keep them from getting bruised.
Fruit leathers
Dried fruit (such as unsweetened banana chips)
Pack a few of these healthy snacks in your travel bags and make sure that you're never left hungry and desperate in an airport or train station again!
