Hiking is a wonderful family activity that brings everyone together. Plus, it’s a great way to get the family active and out to enjoy the beautiful autumn scenery!
Everyone will undoubtedly get hungry on the trail, but what should you pack for the family? Unfortunately, there are many sugar-laden and sodium-packed options that are unhealthy. Swap those unhealthy options out for these hiking snacks that are easy to prep, healthy, and great for the trail!
Swap out chips
If the kids are craving something salty, don’t give them a bag of potato or corn chips. Instead, have them nibble on some pretzels. Make sure the pretzels are low sodium to avoid too much salt intake. Also, buy plain pretzels rather than flavored (honey mustard, peanut butter-filled, etc.) These pretzels are loaded with calories, and contain added sugars and preservatives.
Swap out sweetened dried fruit
Instead of snacking on sweetened dried fruit, replace it with unsweetened versions. Many stores carry dried fruit either in bulk or prepackaged form that is 100% fruit, with no added sugar or sweeteners of any kind.
Swap out store-bought trail mix
Many store-bought trail mixes contain chocolate, peanut butter cups, butterscotch chips, and other candies that contain tons of sugar. Instead, make your own trail mix. Combine a variety of nuts and unsweetened dried fruit to create a personalized trail mix that is low in sugar and high in protein.
Other great hiking snack ideas include veggie sticks (carrot, celery, bell peppers, etc.), plain popcorn, Larabars, Justin’s natural peanut butter packets, and Moon Cheese.
