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Road trips are exciting adventures, but they often involve long stretches on the road where it’s tempting to rely on convenience store snacks that are high in sugar and unhealthy fats. However, with a little planning and preparation, it’s entirely possible to maintain a healthy diet while on the move. Here are the ten best healthy road trip travel snacks for adults that are easy to pack and will keep you fueled for your journey.
1. Almond Butter or Peanut Butter With Fruit
Almond butter and peanut butter paired with fruit make fantastic options for a road trip snack due to their balanced combination of healthy fats, protein, and natural sugars. These spreads provide sustained energy and satiety, while fruits like apples or bananas add natural sweetness and fiber. The combination is portable, easy to pack, and doesn’t require refrigeration, making it a convenient and nutritious choice for on-the-go snacking during a road trip. You can pair almond and peanut butter with:
- Whole-grain crackers
- Sliced apples or bananas
- Celery sticks
- Rice cakes
- Fruit
Justin’s Almond Butter comes in convenient single-serve packets, perfect for on-the-go snacking without the need for refrigeration.
2. Healthy Trail Mix
Trail mix is a classic road trip snack that combines nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. When making or choosing a healthy trail mix, look for:
- Unsalted or lightly salted nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)
- Seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds)
- Dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
- Dark chocolate chips or chunks (in moderation)
Avoid trail mixes with added sugar, candy pieces, or excessive salt. Portion out individual servings in resealable bags for easy snacking.
3. No Bake Peanut Butter Bars
These homemade bars are simple to make and provide a nutritious boost of energy. Here’s how to prepare them:
- Combine creamy peanut butter and honey in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat the mixture until warm, then stir until smooth.
- Add quick-cooking oats, chopped walnuts, raisins, and salt.
- Mix until well combined, then press the mixture into a pan.
- Refrigerate until set, then cut into bars.
These peanut butter bars are a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, perfect for sustained energy during long drives.
Looking for more road trip essentials? Check out our blog on “Top 20 Road Trip Packing List Essentials” to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure!
4. Beef Sticks
Beef sticks are a convenient, protein-packed, and nutrient-dense snack option that can help fuel your body and satisfy hunger cravings while on the road. Always check labels for quality ingredients and choose options that align with your dietary preferences and health goals.
Mission Meats Beef Sticks are made from 100% grass-fed beef, free from added sugars and artificial ingredients. They’re portable, convenient, and packed with protein, making them an ideal savory snack option for road trips.
5. Chocolate Date Energy Bars
These energy bars are a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors. Here’s how to make them:
- Process dates, dark chocolate, and dried cherries in a food processor until finely chopped.
- Add chopped nuts, coconut flakes, sunflower kernels, olive oil, and vanilla extract.
- Process until the mixture comes together, then roll into balls.
- Refrigerate before serving.
These chocolate date energy bars are a great source of antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats.
6. Edamame
Edamames are an excellent choice for a healthy road trip snack due to their nutritional benefits. They are packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, offering a satisfying and nutritious option on the go. Additionally, they are easy to prepare and can be seasoned with various flavors to suit your taste preferences. Edamames make for a convenient and filling snack that can keep you energized during a long road trip. To prepare edamame for a road trip snack:
- Boil edamame pods until tender, then drain.
- Season with kosher salt, ground ginger, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Toss to coat and enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Edamame is high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a satisfying and healthy snack option.
7. Kale Chips
Kale chips make an excellent snack for a long road trip because they are nutritious, portable, and delicious. Kale is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice. When turned into chips, kale becomes crispy and flavorful, providing a satisfying alternative to traditional potato chips. Kale chips are also easy to pack and store, maintaining their crunchiness even on the road. They are a guilt-free snack that adds a nutritious boost to your journey. Here’s how to make them:
- Remove tough stems from kale leaves and tear them into pieces.
- Toss with olive oil, Old Bay Seasoning, and sea salt.
- Bake until crisp and slightly browned.
Kale chips are low in calories and packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
8. Homemade Popcorn
Air-popped popcorn is a whole-grain snack that’s easy to prepare. To make homemade popcorn:
- Place plain popcorn kernels in an air popper or on the stovetop.
- Season with herbs, spices, or nutritional yeast for added flavor.
- Portion into resealable bags for convenient snacking.
Popcorn is a fiber-rich snack that can help keep you full and satisfied during your road trip.
Looking for more road trip inspiration? Check out our blog on “How to Plan an RV Road Trip” for expert tips and ideas to enhance your travel experience!
9. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is an excellent choice for a road trip snack due to its high protein content, which helps keep you full and satisfied. It’s also rich in calcium and probiotics, promoting gut health and aiding digestion during long hours on the road. Greek yogurt is portable, doesn’t require refrigeration for short periods, and can be paired with fruits, nuts, or granola for added flavor and texture. This nutrient-packed snack is ideal for maintaining energy levels and staying healthy while traveling.
10. Protein Bars
Protein bars are excellent for road trips because they are convenient, nutritious, and satisfying. They offer a balanced blend of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, providing sustained energy. Protein bars are also portable and don’t require refrigeration, making them ideal for on-the-go snacking during long drives. Additionally, they come in various flavors and formulations, catering to different dietary preferences and needs, ensuring you have a tasty and fulfilling snack option for your journey. Look for protein bars that are low in added sugars and made from natural ingredients, such as nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
- LÄRABAR Protein
- Contains 11 grams of plant-based protein.
- Made with real ingredients like dates, nuts, and pea protein.
- NuGo Dark Bars
- Low in sugar and high in protein.
- Available in various flavors like Chocolate Pretzel and Peanut Butter Cup.
- No Cow Protein Bars
- Plant-based and dairy-free.
- Contains 20 grams of protein per bar.
- Clif Builder’s Bars
- Made with non-GMO ingredients.
- Contains 20 grams of complete protein.
- Square Organics Protein Bars
- Organic, vegan, and soy-free.
- Contains 12 grams of plant-based protein.
If you’re loving these healthy road trip snack ideas, be sure to check out our blog on “24 Easy and Delicious Camping Lunch Ideas” for more tasty outdoor meal inspiration!
Visit Black Hawk Creek RV Park & Cabins in South Dakota
Now that you’re prepared with the best and healthiest snacks for your road trip, ensure you have a comfortable place to stay in South Dakota. Consider booking a spot at Black Hawk Creek RV Park & Cabins, conveniently located near Rapid City and offering a range of accommodation options including RV sites and cozy cabins. Enjoy your adventure while staying close to nature!