The Perfect Snacks for Your Next Hike

Heading out on the trails is a great way to enjoy the summer days, explore the beauty of our natural world, and keep in shape.

Of course, burning those extra calories can leave us a little peckish at points along the pathways, and it is always good hiking practice to have something to eat in case you get lost or delayed.

But if we are working hard to be healthy and keep the pounds at bay, we do not want to undo all our steps by mindlessly chewing through unhealthy snacks like chips or chocolate, laden with salt and sugars.

Of course, most important of all is water – and lots of it. Hiking in hotter weather can be pretty dehydrating and we need to keep our water levels topped up.

It is also a great way to avoid eating too much – our bodies are not the best at distinguishing between thirst and hunger, and many times we think we are hungry we simply need a drink. 

Enjoy the cool water and wait 10 minutes – often you will realize you ‘hunger’ has vanished.

But if you do need a little more solid fuel to keep you going through the miles, there are many great energy boosting snacks to pack that do not come with all the bad baggage.

Try peanut butter and bananas – peanuts are packed with protein and healthy fats, ideal to keep you going and make you feel full. And bananas come in their own eco-friendly packaging and are full of potassium, ideal for your body’s needs when exercising. The two together provide a great taste and texture combination.

Fruit of all kinds is great to take with you – they’re simple, healthy, cheap and full of natural sugars and extra water. If you are not keen on the volume and weight, try taking some dried fruits with you instead – the water might not be there, but the sweet taste of dried apricots, raisins, or apple chips is a sure-fire motivator. Some people enjoy freezing grapes to add a little coolness and suck them like a boiled sweet.

Granola bars are a quick fix for those in a rush – and with so many brands and varieties on the market you are spoiled for choice as you find your new favorite. High in fiber with room for a little treat if you like a chocolate drop, or packed with dried fruit – there is something for everyone. Just keep an eye on the nutritional information labels, as some bars can contain more calories than you expect – or make your own and stay in control.

Nuts and seeds are excellent snacks – easy to carry, all sorts of varieties and mixes available, in many flavors and packed with proteins and fiber. From classic salt to more exotic flavors like chili, it is hard to go wrong.

And finally trail mix – the classic hiking snack that is literally named for the activity. A huge and tasty energy boost that can combine many of the items above – whether you grab a store mix for convenience or make up your own to your preferred secret blend, a quick nibble and you will be recharged to finish the hike strong.