Smart Snacking for Summer Adventures
Summer is full of on the go adventures… road trips, beach days, weekends at the lake, and spontaneous hikes… but what about keeping yourself fuelled on these wild adventures? It’s easy to fall into the trap of grabbing gas station junk that leaves you feeling more sluggish than satisfied.
While theres a time and a place for indulging in your favourite snacks, I’m all about making your summer snacks work for you. Let’s have a look at how to snack while keeping your energy steady, your mood lifted, and your digestion happy.
What Makes a Snack ‘Smart’?
Protein + Healthy Fat + Fibre. This combo keeps blood sugar stable, reduces cravings, and keeps you full longer.
Here’s some Smart Snack Ideas:
1. DIY Trail Mix
Make no mistake… candy is still candy even if it’s mixed in with your trail mix!:
Lots of: Almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds
Some: Dried cherries, coconut flakes, and goji berries
Just a few: Dark chocolate chips
2. Protein-Packed Energy Balls
Four flavours to choose from on this easy recipe.
3. Cut Veggies + Hummus or Guac Packs
Raw veggies are crunchy, hydrating, and full of fiber. Cucumber, carrots, snap peas, and bell peppers are all travel-friendly, and you can find handy premade hummus or guacamole in most stores, or make your own and pack it in small containers.
4. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Nature’s perfectly packaged snack. Keep them in a small cooler and sprinkle with sea salt and paprika. Add on a banana, natures other perfectly packaged snack for some extra carbs.
5. Roasted Chickpeas or Edamame
Crunchy, satisfying, and full of plant-based protein. You can buy them ready-made or roast your own with olive oil and spices like paprika and garlic powder.
Pinwheel wraps aren’t just for potlucks, they make a great balanced on the go snack too.
7. Fruit with Nut Butter
Pair apple slices, strawberries, or a banana with your favourite nut butter (I like almond butter).
Bonus Tips for Healthy Snacking Success
Pack a small icepack to keep perishables fresh.
Stay hydrated. Dehydration often shows up as hunger.
Mind the munching. Eat intentionally — not just out of boredom. Bring other things to keep you entertained on long car rides, like trivia games or an audiobook.
Enjoy the Summer fun!