30 On-the-Go Food Ideas for Stress-Free Travel
Travel is fun but finding decent food within walking distance is very hard — especially if you wish to avoid overpriced airport snacks or greasy fast food.
And since I’m always alight on the next train, I’ve found that taking with you travel-appropriate food not only saves you time and money, it keeps you used up for the journey ahead.
To make life simple we’ve assembled a list of 30 food ideas which you can grab and take as you head out, no fuss, no mess, just good food for travel.
1. Fresh Fruit Packs
Fresh, cut fruits such as apple wedges, grapes, or orange segments are refreshing and easy to eat on the road.
To maintain their freshness, store them in an airtight container or sealed in a reusable silicone bag.
2. Trail Mix
A medley of nuts, dried fruits, and seeds is ideal for an instant energy boost.
You can top it with your favorite stuff — nuts, raisins, a bit of dark chocolate chips.
3. Granola Bars
Granola bars are rich in nutrients and are highly condensed in size. Choose options with the least added sugars for a better snack.
4. Veggie Sticks and Hummus
Carrot, celery and bell pepper sticks are great with a small container of hummus. It’s a perfect way to sneak in veggies while out and about.
5. Cheese Cubes
Individual cheese portions or pre-cut cubes are satisfying and a good companion for crackers or fruits.
6. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are high in protein and are easy to pack and go. Peel them ahead of time so they are not messy.
7. Sandwich Wraps
Whole-grain tortillas with deli meat and cheese and greens are easy to pack and eat.
8. Nut Butter Packets
Insitit doesn’t sell single-serve nut butter packets, which can be handy for spreading on crackers, apples or just eating straight from a package.
9. Greek Yogurt
Take a small container of Greek yogurt and granola for a protein and fiber-filled snack. Opt for a brand with a reclosable lid for easier use.
10. Homemade Muffins
Make a batch of healthy muffins (like banana or oatmeal) before your trip. They’re easy to take on the go, and they’re great for breakfast or a snack.
11. Energy Balls
Energy balls, which are made with oats, nut butter and honey, are easy to prepare at home and give you a boost.
12. Pre-Packaged Salads
Pack a salad (keep the dressing in a separate container). Use sturdy greens like kale that won’t be given to wilting.
13. Rice Cakes
Rice cakes are crispy and light and can be a versatile snack. Layer on nut butter or avocado for bonus flavors.
14. Dried Fruit
Mango, apricots or apple chips have sweetness with satisfaction; they are natural sugar that can give you plenty of energy, quickly.
15. Mini Bagels
Fill plain or whole-grain mini bagels with cream cheese or nut butter for a clean meal.
16. Crackers and Tuna Packets
Tuna packets, purchased separately, with whole-grain crackers are a great protein-carbohydrate combination.
17. Popcorn
For extended car rides, air-popped popcorn sprinkled with your favorite spices makes for a crunchy snack.
18. Cold Pasta Salad
An olive oil dressing pasta salad dotted with cherry tomatoes and cheese cubes makes for a substantial meal that’s easy to eat.
19. Protein Bars
Protein bars are fantastic for staying fuller on long travel days. Choose one with few ingredients and high protein.
20. Meat Jerky
Jerky — beef or turkey — is high-protein and ideal when you’re craving something savory.
21. Instant Oatmeal Cups
Instant oatmeal cups are lifesavers for early mornings or long travel days.
They’re lightweight, compact and super easy to prepare — just add hot water!
22. Sliced Avocado with Crackers
Avocado lovers, rejoice! A ripe avocado atop whole-grain crackers make a simple but decadent snack for the road.
Pack a small plastic knife and spoon so you can easily slice and scoop the creamy avocado.
23. Cheese and Meat Snack Packs
For travelers looking for something filling and protein-rich, snack packs with cheese and cured meats are a go-to.
You can also purchase store-bought options or make your own with sliced cheeses, salami, prosciutto or turkey.
24. Edamame
Edamame** pods are a healthy and filling snack that’s super easy to eat on the go.
Nutritious, high in protein and fiber and filled with a range of vitamins, they’re a healthier alternative to chips or cookies.
25. Mini Quiches
Mini quiches provide a portable protein-packed snack with a gourmet feel that’s shockingly easy to make.
You can bake a batch in a muffin tin using stuff like eggs, cheese, vegetables and maybe a little ham or sausage.
26. Cereal Mix
Cereal mix is a sweet, crunchy snack that travels well and can play a variety of roles.
Mix your favorite cereals with add-ins such as nuts, dried fruits or even mini chocolate chips for a little indulgence.
27. Freshly Baked Cookies
Good thing there are some things that feel as comforting as a batch of freshly baked cookies, even while a world away.
Bake your favorite cookies — chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin or peanut butter — a day or two before your trip.
28. Frozen Grapes
Frozen grapes make for an easy and naturally sweet, refreshing snack that’s ideal for travel.
The night before your trip, freeze a handful of seedless grapes and tuck them into a small container or resealable bag.
29. Seaweed Snacks
Seaweed snacks are those light, crispy, salty treats that are delicious and nutritious.
These papery sheets of roasted seaweed are brushed with just a bit of salt or seasonings such as wasabi, sesame or soy.
30. Flavor Packets for Water Bottles
One travel must-have is a reusable water bottle as staying hydrated is crucial.
To spice up plain water, take along some flavor packets or drops.
Electrolyte mixes, fruit-infused flavors or herbal teas are other options that can bring a refreshing element.
