Traveling can be an exciting adventure, but it often throws our healthy eating habits off track. Airports and gas stations are usually filled with less-than-nutritious options, tempting us to grab sugary or processed snacks. But what if you could travel without sacrificing your well-being? The secret lies in packing your own Travel Snacks!
Just like many seasoned travelers, we have a dedicated food bag that’s always packed with delicious and healthy goodies. Think of it as your personal treasure chest against unhealthy airport temptations. Don’t worry about it counting as extra baggage – it’s similar to bringing food purchased at the airport. And if anyone questions it, just remember, having healthy, balanced meals and snacks throughout your travel day is a dietary need in itself!
Our goal is to maintain a regular eating schedule as much as possible, even when traveling. It’s not always perfect, but the aim is to avoid continuous grazing and instead enjoy proper mini-meals to stay energized and satisfied. This applies to everyone, even the little ones! Packing “meal-snacks” for kids is a game-changer for smoother travel days.
Typically, we pack breakfast, lunch, or dinner, depending on our travel schedule. These are then supplemented with filling snacks to bridge any gaps or unexpected delays. Let’s dive into some fantastic travel snack ideas to get you started.
Smart Travel Snack Ideas for Every Meal
Breakfast On-the-Go: Start your travel day right with a nutritious breakfast you can easily pack. Hard-boiled eggs are a protein powerhouse, or consider frittata cups for a more flavorful option. Greek yogurt or cottage cheese (in 3.4 oz portions for flying) paired with berries offers a refreshing and light start. Protein bars combined with nut butter provide sustained energy. Overnight oats are another great make-ahead option, and if you’re not flying, a smoothie is a fantastic way to pack in nutrients. For coffee lovers, bring collagen and a small container of almond milk to upgrade your airport coffee.
Lunch and Dinner Travel Bites: Get creative with lunch and dinner by repurposing leftovers! Emptying the fridge before a trip can lead to surprisingly delicious salads, bowls, or wraps. Don’t hesitate to be “that person” with your packed meal – you’re prioritizing your health, and others might just be envious!
Snacks for the Journey Home: For the trip back, room service hard-boiled eggs or a to-go salad can be lifesavers. If you’re staying in an Airbnb or with family, take the opportunity to clear out the fridge and reuse takeout containers for your travel day snacks.
Packing Pro-Tip: Want to keep your travel snacks fresh? You can bring a frozen ice pack through security. Remember, liquid items like salad dressing, yogurt, and chia pudding are allowed in containers of 3.4 ounces or less.
Consider Fasting (Partially): Think about aligning your eating with your travel schedule by fasting for a portion of your travel day. Your body might digest food more efficiently if you eat before or after your flight rather than during it. Just like at home, aim for 4-5 hours between meals if you’ve had a balanced, filling meal beforehand.
Delicious and Convenient Travel Snack Favorites
It’s always wise to have extra travel snacks on hand, especially with potential delays or if you’re traveling with kids – snacks are essential for everyone’s happiness! These are some of our favorite healthy alternatives to gas station or in-flight snacks, which often don’t do much for your health or your wallet.
Many of these travel snack options can be found on my Amazon page under “Favorite Snacks & Leena Approved.”
Salty & Savory Travel Snacks:
- Dry roasted edamame or chickpeas: Packed with protein and fiber.
- Brami beans: A crunchy and flavorful bean snack.
- Ella’s Flats or Flackers: Seed-based crackers for a satisfying crunch.
- PaleoValley or Chomps beef sticks: High-protein and convenient.
- Lesser Evil popcorn: A healthier popcorn option.
- Nut butter packets: Easy protein and healthy fats.
- Olive packets: Savory and portable.
- Thrive Market paleo snack mix: A mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
- Kroma 24k bone broth packets: For a warm and nourishing drink (prepare with hot water after security).
- Poshi marinated vegetables: Flavorful and hydrating.
- Hummus packets: Pair with crackers or veggies.
- Avocado or guacamole packets: Healthy fats and creamy texture.
Sweet Travel Snacks (Healthier Options):
- Protein bars (adult & kid versions): Choose bars with lower sugar content.
- Hu Kitchen chocolate covered cashews or almonds: Dark chocolate and nuts for a satisfying treat.
- Eating Evolved Keto Cups: Low-carb and delicious chocolate cups.
- UNREAL dark chocolate gems: A healthier candy option for a small treat.
Homemade Travel Snack Ideas:
- Fresh fruit with nut butter: Classic and nutritious.
- Hard-boiled eggs: Easy to make ahead and pack.
- Crudités and hummus: Fresh veggies and a protein-rich dip.
- Greek yogurt or cottage cheese with fruit: Dairy and fruit for a balanced snack.
- DIY Trail Mix: Customize your own mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
- Grass-fed string cheese: Portable protein and calcium.
- Applegate turkey roll-ups: Deli meat rolled up for a quick protein snack.
Supplements for Travel Wellness:
While not travel snacks, supplements can be incredibly helpful during travel. Consider packing:
- Liposomal Vitamin C (immune support)
- Magnesium Citrate (for digestion)
- Digestive Enzymes & Bitters (for digestion)
- L-theanine (for sleep)
- Greens powder (nutrient boost)
- Collagen packets (protein boost)
- Electrolytes (hydration and stress support)
These can be found on my Fullscript account here or on my Amazon page here.
Packing your own travel snacks is a simple yet powerful way to prioritize your health and well-being while traveling. You’ll not only feel better physically but also save money and avoid the sugar crash from unhealthy airport options. So, next time you’re planning a trip, remember to pack your food bag with these delicious and nutritious travel snack ideas and enjoy a healthier journey!
