5 Best Packaged Snacks for Traveling
When traveling or managing a busy schedule, especially as a healthcare worker, it’s essential to have convenient and energizing snacks. I love to travel, and with my busy schedule as a trauma surgeon, my days can fill up fast.
Having healthy, portable snacks with me is a must. They keep my energy up, help me stay focused, and stop me from grabbing unhealthy food when I’m in a rush.
Here are some of my favorite snacks for traveling that are easy to pack and will leave you feeling energized and satisfied.
Why Snacks Are Important While on the Road
Snacks help keep your energy steady and prevent hunger when you're on the move. Having nutrient-rich snacks can help you avoid the energy slumps that come with unhealthy food choices. And when those snacks are organic or gluten-free, you’re fueling your body with clean, wholesome ingredients.
Many of these snacks are also great for gut health, which is important for staying healthy and feeling your best (check out my blog post on gut health for more details on how to keep a healthy gut! How to Refine Your Gut Health in 3 Easy Steps
Best Packaged Snacks for Traveling
1. Jerky
Jerky is a great travel snack because it’s full of protein, which keeps you full and satisfied for longer periods of time.
Protein-rich snacks like jerky are also easy to pack and won’t spoil, making them perfect for long trips. Plus, they help maintain your energy without spiking your blood sugar.
Paleovalley Meat Sticks: These are made from 100% grass-fed beef and are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for reducing inflammation. They’re also free from harmful additives like nitrates, so you can feel good about eating them.
The New Primal Meat Sticks: These sticks are made from pasture-raised meats and offer a clean, delicious source of protein. They are great for snacking on the go without all the junk found in many other jerky brands.
2. Organic Dried Fruit
Dried or freeze-dried fruit is perfect for traveling because it’s light, doesn’t spoil, and is full of natural sweetness. These snacks provide you with essential vitamins and fiber to help keep your digestive system running smoothly.
They also help curb sugar cravings without any added sweeteners, making them a healthier option.
Bear Fruit Rolls: Made from 100% organic fruit with no added sugar or preservatives, these rolls are an easy and mess-free snack. They’re perfect for a quick bite between activities.
Chavi Dragon Fruit: Vibrant and full of antioxidants, dragon fruit is a great snack option that can also support your immune system. It’s both tasty and nutrient-rich, making it a perfect snack for busy days.
That's It Fruit Crunch Snacks: These crunchy fruit snacks are made with just fruit, no fillers, and provide a satisfying texture while keeping things simple. They’re ideal for packing in your bag without worrying about spoilage.
3. Nuts
Nuts are an excellent choice for a portable snack because they are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They offer a good boost of energy and help you feel full for longer, making them great for sustaining energy on busy days.
Nuts also contain important nutrients like magnesium and antioxidants that support heart health.
Nutsola Superfood Mix: This mix combines nuts with other nutrient-dense ingredients like seeds and dried fruit for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals. It’s a simple way to snack on the go while fueling your body with the right nutrients.
4. Cereal and Granola Bars
Granola bars and certain cereals are both fantastic options for traveling or busy schedules. They're easy to carry, provide quick energy, and many are packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
Granola bars offer slow-burning carbs, which help sustain your energy throughout the day. Cereal is great because it's often fortified with vitamins and minerals, and can be a eaten as a dry snack making it great for travel.
Here are two great options:
Autumn’s Gold Granola Bars: Grain-free, gluten-free, and made with simple, organic ingredients that provide steady energy throughout the day.
Seven Sundays Cereal: Made with whole grains and nutrient-dense ingredients, this cereal is free of artificial sweeteners and provides a sustained energy boost, making it a great choice to fuel your day.
These two are perfect for keeping you fueled and focused on the go.
5. Energy Bites (Dessert Option)
These bite-sized treats are easy to pack and made from nutrient-dense ingredients like coconut, nuts, and seeds. They provide a sweet treat while still being nourishing.
Creation Nation Energy Bite Mix: This no-bake mix allows you to make your own energy bites at home with real ingredients. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a perfect dessert or snack option that doesn’t sacrifice nutrition.
Helpful hint: I don’t recommend using oats in this recipe, as many energy bites contain them. Always check the label to know what's inside.
Cleaner Living with Healthier Snacks for Traveling
Choosing organic snacks is one of the small steps I’ve taken toward cleaner living, even when I’m always on the go. I’ve noticed that organic foods help cut down on exposure to pesticides and other chemicals, plus they tend to have more nutrients.
This has been important for me as I think about my health and the long-term impact on my future family. Making these choices has made my life easier and healthier, especially during busy days.
If you’re looking to make similar changes, I’ve put together a Pantry Swaps for Cleaner Living list, packed with easy swaps to help you keep your kitchen stocked with healthier options. You can also check out my blog post on organic produce for more tips on making nutritious, cleaner choices.
