Hiking burns a lot of energy. If you’re taking off on a long adventure, it’s a great idea to bring along some snacks to keep you fueled. Before you start packing your day bag, you may want to learn about some of the best trail foods.
1. Protein-Packed Beef Jerky
Delicious beef jerky is always a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are several reasons why. Not only is it shelf-stable and easy to pack, but it is also full of protein. The protein from a beef jerky stick will help you feel full, keep your blood sugar steady, and refuel your muscles. Jerky’s savory flavors, like jalapeno or smoky BBQ beef jerky, can also be a pleasant change from other sweet hiking snacks.
For a unique and savory trailside snack, consider homemade buffalo jerky. You can learn how to make it yourself with this insightful guide from Mahogany Smoked Meats, adding a touch of gourmet goodness to your hiking fuel repertoire.
2. Energizing Nut Butter
Whether you bring along classic peanut butter or branch out to almond and cashew butter, you’re in for an energizing snack. Nut butter provides a surplus of energy due to its high caloric density. You can also pair it with fruit, crackers, or granola for an extra boost. If your pack can’t accommodate a whole jar, you can purchase individual squeeze packets to save space.
3. Nutritional Vegetables
Vegetables often get left behind, but they are a nutritional snack that you should consider for your next trek. Make sure you select alternatives that won’t get smashed or require refrigeration. Great options include broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and celery. Fresh produce is an easy snack that can help hydrate you, aid digestion, and boost your immune system.
4. Vitalizing Fruit
Some people avoid fruit due to the high levels of natural sugar. However, those sugars can help vitalize your body when you’re active. If you want extra hydration, select fresh fruit. You should opt for something tough or pack in hard-sided containers. Dried fruits such as raisins or banana chips are a fantastic option if you need more durability,
5. Long-Lasting Granola
Granola is a classic choice for hiking. No matter the weather or length of your trip, it should stay fresh. You can enjoy sweetened rolled oats and nuts, which provide protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. There are also many forms to choose from, such as loose-granola, homemade granola, or granola bars.
6. Ready-Made Meat
Jerky is not the only type of meat that can be brought on the trail. Ready-made packets or cans of chicken and tuna make for a more substantial snack. From lemon pepper to buffalo chicken, you can select numerous flavors to fit your taste buds. Pairing them with crackers, bread, or tortillas even makes a quick, easy meal.
7. Powerful Bars
The amount of energizing bars on the market has vastly expanded. Store-bought bars aren’t just convenient, but they are often created with rigorous activities in mind. That means the ingredients are selected to give you a powerful boost of energy, nutrients, and appealing flavors. The biggest drawback is that they can get pricey.
If you have a big hike coming up, head to the store, hit your kitchen, and pack your bag. Great, nutritional snacks will keep you fueled all day long.
