Getting ready to go on a trip, but feeling nervous about sticking to your diet? The most important thing you can do to avoid stressful situations or going off track is to plan ahead! There are so many options for healthy, non-perishable and packable snacks you can bring with you in case you find yourself in a situation where there are few healthy options.
The tricky part is navigating what snacks are the best options. Hopefully after reading some nutritionist-approved suggestions, you’ll feel readier than ever to enjoy your trip without sacrificing r health goals.
One of the best things to bring with you is high-quality protein sources. If you’re staying in a hotel or a resort, oftentimes the breakfast buffet is full of fatty meats, cheesy eggs, and sugary yogurts, but is lacking any clean and healthy protein sources! Therefore, it’s best to show up prepared.
Here are some portable protein options:
- Single serve protein packets: whey, hemp, pea protein, or whatever your preference. Grabbing a couple single servings packets or putting a few scoops in a zip lock bag allows you to have a great source of protein to add to your oatmeal in the morning or even to just shake up with some water when options are limited.
- Beef or turkey jerky: This is a great one to put in your bag for a snack on the plane, or to have on hand to get that energy up while you explore a new city.
- Salmon and tuna packets: Okay, so the smell may be offensive to your travel companions, but salmon and tuna packets are a great and versatile option to add to a salad, scoop with some crackers, or even eat right out of the package with a fork.
- Protein bars: Protein bars are helpful to have on hand for a snack or even a meal replacement when your options are limited. However, be very careful to read the ingredients as many protein bars are packed with sugar, preservatives, gluten, and artificial ingredients. The less ingredients, the better! Here are some recommended brands that won’t derail your health. Most are available at any normal grocery store:
- Rx Bar
- Primal Kitchen collagen bar
- Go Macro bar
- Naked Bar
Healthy Carbs:
- Roasted chickpeas: these are a great source of vegan protein, energy, and fiber! You can make your own or buy them in the store.
- Fruit: Fruit that has a peel and doesn’t need to be refrigerated, such as bananas and clementines, can be a choice to bring along. Other fruits such as apples and pears can be great. Just be careful that they don’t get bruised in your bag!
- Gluten-free crackers or rice cakes.
- Instant unsweetened oatmeal packets for breakfast options.
Healthy Fats:
- Nuts and seeds are an awesome source of omega-3 fatty acids and as a satiating snack. You can even make your own trail mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for a delicious and nutritious meal option.
- Single serve nut butter packets are a quick and easy fat source while traveling. These single serve packets are great to put in oatmeal, on crackers, rice cakes or fruit, or even to eat alone!
If you have access to a fridge, it is helpful to have veggies to stash as snacks. Greek yogurt cups can also be great for breakfast if the choices are slim!
By packing some of these fail-proof snacks, you’ll be sure to return from your trip feeling just as great as you did before you left.