Snacks That Are Perfect for Your Next Road Trip

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3 weeks ago

Perfect snacks for an outdoor activity this winter

Hiking, skiing, ice skating: winter is a great time for outdoor activities that can be done as a family.

Did you know that exercising in winter requires about 15% more energy than exercising in summer? That’s why you should pay special attention to your diet during a winter outing.

To prepare well for an outdoor activity, follow the advice of Alison Caron, nutritionist at Provigo .

Refuel before the big departure

To start your day off right, it’s important to eat enough to have all the energy you need to begin your outdoor activity. Before you step into the frosty air, it’s essential to refuel with a hearty breakfast. If you’re heading out early, prep something the night before—like oatmeal in a thermos. Not only is it warm and filling, but it’s also an excellent ready to eat food choice for winter mornings.

If you’re leaving early, consider snacks that can be prepared the night before and easily eaten in a thermos, such as oatmeal.

In addition to being easy to make ahead of time, this meal will provide essential nutrients to keep you fueled throughout the morning. Add pieces of fruit and nuts for an even more satisfying and delicious lunch.

Snacks to keep you going

Once you’re outside and dressed warmly—without access to a stove, microwave, or mittens—it’s important to focus on snacks that are quick to eat, don’t need to be reheated, and will keep you going. Provigo’s nutritionist offers two simple options:

1. Mixtures of nuts and dried fruits that, even in small quantities, will give you all the fuel you need to continue your physical effort.

2. A granola bar is also a great option to satisfy your hunger. Even with mittens, these are easy to eat! You can make them as a family or buy them, opting for those that contain protein and little added sugar.

Pro tip: Keep your bars from freezing by keeping them close to your body in an inside pocket of your coat or adding hand warmers to your snack bag.

Hydration in winter, an often forgotten aspect

The sensation of thirst is less noticeable in winter. Therefore, there is an increased risk of dehydration during winter activities. Physical exertion at altitude, which makes the mouth drier, and perspiration, which is generally intensified by winter clothing, are factors that could cause dehydration during your outings.

The solution is simple: stay hydrated throughout the day! In addition to water bottles, why not bring a hot drink in a thermos that can warm you up during your activity? A hot chocolate chai tea could be a great idea to warm you up.

End your day in a warm and cozy place

If your day outdoors ends peacefully around a campfire, you might want to mix up your snacks. Corn chips with a warm salsa, sour cream, and mozzarella dip will warm everyone up, plus they’re a delicious and kid-friendly treat. A perfect low carb snack for road trip if served plain.

Don’t forget hot chocolate and coffee stored in insulated mugs that will soothe throats irritated by the cold! Enjoy it from a best travel food container.

Don’t Forget to Hydrate Even in the Cold

Winter’s chill can dull your sense of thirst, but hydration is crucial—especially when you’re bundled up and sweating beneath layers.

Bring a thermos of hot drinks like herbal tea, chai, or low-sugar hot chocolate. These are comforting and help combat the cold.
Always carry best travel water bottles or travel food containers leak-proof to sip from regularly.

Remember: Dehydration can sneak up in the cold. A good travel food scale is also handy to measure ingredients or portions if you’re meal-prepping outdoors.

Here are 4 snack ideas to have on hand for your outings this winter:

Here are four healthy snacks for road trip and outdoor activities:

Smart Snacks to Keep You Energized

Once you’re outside and active, you’ll need snacks that are quick to eat, non-messy, and packed with energy. Here are some good snacks for road trip and winter adventures:

Nut and dried fruit trail mix: A small handful offers a rich supply of healthy fats and protein. This makes it one of the best snacks for road trip and hiking alike.
Granola bars: Choose high-protein, low-sugar versions for lasting energy. They’re great car snacks for road trip journeys too.
One of the low calorie snacks for road trip that’s still satisfying

Pro tip: Store them in an inner coat pocket or insulated bag to prevent freezing.

1. Cherry, cranberry, and dark chocolate trail mix

This mix of nuts, dried fruit and chocolate is perfect for the whole family and is easy to eat even with mittens on.

2. Fruit and nut soft bars, berry mix

Whole grains and fruits, the perfect blend to give you all the nutrients you need.

3. The Decadent Chocolate Chip Cookie Hot Chocolate Mix

Hot chocolate in a thermos is a must-have when playing outside in winter. It warms the body, but especially the heart.

4. Supergrain plain oatmeal

Easy to prepare and super nutritious, oatmeal is a perfect meal to kick off your nature getaway.

Tips on Packing Your Snacks the Right Way

How you pack snacks matters—especially when you’re dealing with weather, altitude, or long drives.

Use shop lunch boxes & travel food containers that are leak-proof and stackable.
Line bags with napkins and use dog travel food bags for pet snacks.
Bring travel food bags that are insulated to maintain temperature.
Always know how to pack snacks for road trip to prevent spoilage or freezing.

If you’re packing perishables, ensure your ready to eat food is stored after cooled using proper food-grade containers.

Ready-to-Eat Food Safety: What You Should Know

When handling food for travel, especially perishable and ready to eat food, here are a few safety guidelines:

Always mark ready to eat TCS food with the date by which it must be consumed. This avoids foodborne illnesses.
Wondering what should food workers use to protect ready to eat food from contamination? Always use gloves or sanitized tongs—especially for ready to eat pastries or fruits.

If you’re packing foods like cheese, eggs, or cooked grains, ensure how should ready to eat food be stored after cooled is clearly understood—always refrigerate or use a travel food warmer during transit.

Bonus Section: Travel Snacks for All Ages

Whether you’re on a weekend trip or an extended stay, here are snack ideas for everyone:

For Toddlers:

Soft cereal puffs
Mashed fruits in baby travel food pouches
Mini sandwiches cut into fun shapes

These are some of the best toddler snacks for road trip moments.

For Adults:

Beef jerky or dried chicken strips
Spiced roasted chickpeas
Cheese cubes in best travel food containers

These are best travel food options when refrigeration isn’t possible.

For the Whole Family:

Crackers with hummus
Fresh fruits packed in travel food containers
Boiled eggs (eaten fresh, not stored for long periods!)

To discover new recipes and tips for easily creating winter snacks, book an appointment today with one of Provigo’s nutritionists. These professionals are here to support you in all areas of your nutritional life.

Final Thoughts

From early-morning oatmeal to thermos-filled hot chocolate and ready to eat food, your winter adventure deserves tasty, energizing, and safe snacks. Be it a snowy hike, a family ski trip, or a weekend escape, these snack tips will keep your body fueled and your heart warm.

Whether you’re choosing low carb snacks for road trip, need help how to pack snacks for road trip, or want the best travel food scale, planning ahead is key.

For more seasonal snack inspiration and professional advice, consult with a certified nutritionist and check out winter-friendly products at your nearest travel or grocery store.