Hiking is a great activity for getting outside, taking in the scenery, and getting some exercise. However, all that physical activity can leave you feeling hungry and in need of a snack. When you’re hiking, it’s important to choose snacks that are portable, easy to pack and provide the energy and nutrients you need to keep going. In this list, we’ve compiled 15 easy hiking snacks that are perfect for taking on the trail. From trail mix and energy bars to fresh fruit and cheese, there’s something here for everyone. These snacks are not only delicious but also nutritious and will help keep you energized on your outdoor adventure.
Trail Mix
Trail mix is a classic hiking snack that combines a variety of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and sometimes chocolate or other sweet treats. It’s a great option because it’s easy to pack, lightweight, and provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to keep you fueled during your hike. You can buy a pre-made trail mix or make your own with your favorite ingredients. Some popular options include almonds, cashews, peanuts, sunflower seeds, raisins, dried cranberries, and chocolate chips. Just be mindful of portion sizes, as trail mix can be calorie-dense.
Energy Bars
Energy bars are a convenient and easy way to get a quick boost of energy while hiking. They come in a wide range of flavors and are available at most grocery stores and outdoor retailers. Energy bars are often packed with protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to provide sustained energy. Look for bars that are made with natural ingredients, such as nuts, seeds, and whole grains, and avoid those with high amounts of added sugars or artificial ingredients. Some popular brands of energy bars include KIND bars, RX bars, and Clif bars.
Jerky
Jerky is a popular hiking snack that is high in protein and easy to pack. It’s made by drying and curing meat, such as beef, turkey, or venison, which results in a chewy and flavorful snack that can be eaten on the go. Jerky is a great option for hikers who need a quick energy boost or a protein-rich snack to help them feel full and satisfied. Look for jerky that is low in sodium and doesn’t contain any added sugars or artificial preservatives. Some popular brands of jerky include Krave, Oberto, and Jack Link’s.
Cheese
Cheese is a delicious and satisfying hiking snack that can be paired with crackers or fruit for a quick and easy snack. Cheese sticks or sliced cheese are both good options for packing in your backpack. Cheese is a great choice for hikers who need to refuel their energy supplies because it is a fantastic source of protein, calcium, and other nutrients. However, keep in mind that cheese can be high in calories and fat, so be sure to enjoy it in moderation. Some popular types of cheese for hiking include cheddar, string cheese, and babybel cheese.
Granola
Granola is a nutritious and tasty snack that is perfect for hiking. It’s made with rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and sometimes dried fruit and sweeteners and is baked until crunchy. Granola is a good source of carbohydrates and fiber, which can provide sustained energy during long hikes. It can be eaten on its own as a snack or mixed with yogurt or milk for a more substantial snack or breakfast. Look for granola that is made with natural ingredients and doesn’t contain high amounts of added sugars. Some popular brands of granola include Nature’s Path, KIND, and Bear Naked.
Fresh Fruit
Fresh fruit is a healthy and refreshing snack that is perfect for hiking. Apples, oranges, bananas, and other easy-to-carry fruits provide a quick burst of energy and are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Fresh fruit can also help keep you hydrated on the trail. Just be sure to choose fruits that are easy to pack and won’t get squished in your backpack. It’s also a good idea to wash and prep your fruit before heading out on your hike. Cut up apples or oranges into slices, or peel and section oranges to make them easier to eat on the go.
Nut Butter Packets
Nut butter packets are a convenient and easy way to pack a source of protein and healthy fats for hiking. Single-serving packets of peanut butter, almond butter, or other nut butter are available at most grocery stores and outdoor retailers. Nut butter is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied during your hike. Nut butter packets can be eaten on their own, paired with crackers or fruit, or spread on a slice of bread for a quick and easy sandwich. Some popular brands of nut butter packets include Justin’s, RX Nut Butter, and Wild Friends.
Dried Fruit
Dried fruit is a sweet and portable hiking snack that is high in fiber and nutrients. Dried apricots, mangoes, dates, and other fruits are all good options for packing in your backpack. Carbohydrates from dried fruit are a good source of quick energy for your hike. It’s also a good alternative to candy or other sugary snacks, as it provides natural sweetness without added sugars. However, dried fruit is more calorically dense than fresh fruit, so it’s important to remember to eat it in moderation. Some popular brands of dried fruit include Sun-Maid, Made in Nature, and Bare Snacks.
Crackers
Crackers are a simple and easy-to-pack hiking snack that can be paired with cheese, nut butter, or other spreads for a more substantial snack. Crackers are a good source of carbohydrates, which can provide quick energy during your hike. Look for crackers that are made with whole grains and don’t contain high amounts of added sugars or artificial ingredients. Some popular types of crackers for hiking include whole wheat crackers, rice cakes, and oatcakes. You can also find pre-packaged snack packs of crackers that are perfect for taking on the go.
Beef Sticks
Beef sticks are a high-protein snack that is easy to pack and perfect for hiking. They’re made from dried and cured beef and are similar to jerky but have a softer and more moist texture. Beef sticks are a good source of protein, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied during your hike. They’re also a good alternative to other processed snacks that may be high in sugar and unhealthy fats. Look for beef sticks that are made with natural ingredients and don’t contain added sugars or artificial preservatives. Some popular brands of beef sticks include Chomps, Vermont Smoke & Cure, and Country Archer.
Hummus and Veggies
Hummus and veggies are nutritious and delicious snack that is perfect for hiking. Pre-cut vegetables, such as baby carrots, celery, and cherry tomatoes, can be paired with single-serving hummus packets for a portable and easy-to-eat snack. Hummus is made from chickpeas and is a good source of protein and fiber, while vegetables provide vitamins and minerals to help keep you fueled during your hike. Look for hummus that is made with natural ingredients and doesn’t contain high amounts of added oils or preservatives. Some popular brands of single-serving hummus packets include Sabra, Cedar’s, and Wild Garden.
Energy Chews and Gels
Energy chews or gels are sports nutrition products that are designed to provide a quick burst of energy during intense physical activity, such as hiking. They’re made with a blend of carbohydrates and electrolytes, which can help keep you fueled and hydrated during your hike. Energy chews are small, gummy-like squares that can be eaten on the go, while energy gels are thicker and come in packets that can be easily squeezed into your mouth. Look for energy chews or gels that are made with natural ingredients and don’t contain high amounts of added sugars or artificial preservatives. Some popular brands of energy chews and gels include GU Energy, Clif Shot, and Honey Stinger.
Popcorn
Popcorn is a fun and low-calorie hiking snack that is perfect for satisfying your craving for something salty and crunchy. It’s also lightweight and easy to pack in your backpack. Popcorn is a good source of carbohydrates and fiber, which can provide quick energy during your hike. Look for popcorn that is air-popped or made with minimal oil and doesn’t contain high amounts of added salt or artificial flavors. You can also experiment with adding your own seasonings, such as nutritional yeast or garlic powder, for a more flavorful snack. Some popular brands of pre-packaged popcorn include SkinnyPop, Boom Chicka Pop, and Smartfood.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is a delicious and satisfying hiking snack that can provide a quick energy boost during your hike. It’s also rich in antioxidants and other nutrients, making it a much healthier alternative to other sugary snacks. Dark chocolate is also lightweight and easy to pack in your backpack. Look for dark chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa, which has a higher concentration of antioxidants and fewer added sugars. Some popular brands of dark chocolate include Lindt, Green & Black’s, and Theo Chocolate. Just be sure to enjoy dark chocolate in moderation, as it can be calorie-dense.
Tuna Pouches
Tuna pouches are a portable and convenient source of protein that is perfect for hiking. They’re made with pre-cooked and seasoned tuna that is packaged in a small, lightweight pouch that’s easy to pack in your backpack. Protein-rich foods like tuna can help you feel full and satisfied throughout your hike. Tuna pouches can be eaten on their own, paired with crackers or vegetables, or mixed with mayonnaise or other spreads to make a quick and easy sandwich. Look for tuna pouches that are made with sustainably sourced fish and don’t contain high amounts of added sodium or preservatives. Some popular brands of tuna pouches include Bumble Bee, Wild Planet, and StarKist.
Things to Consider When Packing Your Snack for Hiking
When packing snacks for hiking, there are a few important things to consider to ensure that you have the right fuel to keep you going on the trail. Here are some essential things to keep in mind:
- Portability: Choose snacks that are easy to pack and won’t take up too much space or add too much weight to your backpack.
- Nutrient density: Look for snacks that provide a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, fiber, and other nutrients to help fuel your body and keep you feeling satisfied.
- Calorie density: Hiking burns a lot of calories, so choose snacks that are calorie-dense enough to keep you energized but not so high in calories that they weigh you down.
- Shelf-stability: Choose snacks that won’t spoil or go bad quickly, especially if you’re going on a multi-day hike.
- Hydration: Choose snacks that won’t dehydrate you, and make sure to pack plenty of water to stay hydrated on the trail.
- Dietary restrictions: Consider any dietary restrictions or preferences, such as gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free, and choose snacks that meet your needs.
- Personal preference: Choose snacks that you enjoy eating, and that will give you the energy and motivation to keep going on your hike.
Bottom Line
Packing the right snacks is essential for a successful and enjoyable hiking experience. Whether you prefer trail mix, energy bars, fresh fruit, or other snacks, there are many options available that can provide the nutrients and energy you need to keep going on the trail. Consider factors such as portability, nutrient density, calorie density, shelf-stability, hydration, dietary restrictions, and personal preference when choosing snacks for hiking. With the right snacks packed in your backpack, you’ll have the fuel you need to explore the great outdoors and make the most of your hiking adventure.
