5 Easy Hiking Snacks (That Aren't Gels or Chews)

5 Easy Hiking Snacks (That Aren't Gels or Chews) 

 

There’s nothing that will make a day on the trail worse than not being prepared with the right food. While energy gels and chews certainly have their place in the pantry, sometimes they just aren’t what you need. Chowing down on something with a bit more substance can boost not only your energy levels, but your morale too. Here’s five tried-and-true favorites for the days when you’re not traveling ultralight or braving a summit push. 

 

Peanut Butter and Jelly 

Don’t underestimate this childhood classic. Packed with protein, unsaturated fat, and with a punch of sugar, this snack is guaranteed to satisfy. The flavors are up to you, with a world of combinations. Try to stick to whole grain bread and peanut butter without

too many additives. If you’re not into jelly or jam, topping your peanut butter with banana slices is even better. Of course, any nut or seed butter will work just fine. For a crunchy twist, you can use rice cakes instead of bread, though this does run a higher risk of being crushed in your pack. 

 

Rice Krispie Treat 

Rice krispie treats provide a quick boost thanks to their content of sugar and simple carbohydrates. While this isn’t something most of us need everyday, it’s perfect for when you’re about to bonk on the trail. They’re also great because they’re sturdy enough to withstand getting lost in even the heaviest of packs. For an even more satisfying version, make them from scratch and add nut butter or your favorite protein powder. 

 

Backcountry Charcuterie 

Despite the fancy name, this can be as easy or complicated as you want- any variety of cured meat, hard cheese, nuts, and dried fruit will keep you full and energized. Try almonds, dried apricots, parmesan, and salami. You can even bring along olives for a sodium kick, as long as they’re stored separately to help maintain everything’s flavor. Forgoing crackers may be smart, as they are likely to break apart while you hike. For a simpler version, you can’t go wrong with a jerky and a cheese stick.

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DIY Trail Mix 

There’s no hiking snack more iconic than trail mix- just look at the name! While there’s nothing wrong with “good ol’ raisins and peanuts,” there’s endless potential for flavor combinations. Try cashews and pecans with dried cherries, craisins, and dark chocolate chips. For something a bit more decadent, try mixing peanuts, peanut M&M’s, peanut butter chips, and peanut butter filled pretzels. 

 

Stuffed Dates 

Dates are often included in recipes for homemade energy balls, but they’re also delicious when they’re the star of the show. You can make them in advance by cutting into them and filling them with nut butter, or prepare them on the go by bringing a squeeze pouch of nut butter and just drizzling it over top. For a savory version, try stuffing them with blue cheese instead of nut butter!

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Other Ideas

Other honorable mentions for day hikes or shorter trips include fresh fruits and vegetables. Additionally, powdered drink mixes are an amazing resource. Depending on what you use they can be sources of carbohydrates, electrolytes, or other ways to optimize hydration. At the very least, using flavor packets will help entice you to drink enough. 

 

Things to Remember

No matter what keeps you going during a long hike, it pays to keep a few key takeaways in mind. Most importantly, hiking isn’t the time to be cutting calories. Look for snacks that are nutrient dense and provide plenty of protein, unsaturated fat, complex carbohydrates, and readily accessible natural sugars.

 

Packability is another thing to consider. Avoid overly crumbly, fragile, or soft foods, or store them in sturdier containers. Similarly, it helps to avoid packaging that creates unnecessary bulk, like cans and hard sided food storage

 

Whether you want to munch as you trek or sit down to enjoy a full picnic, remember that what you bring is up to you! It helps to have food you’re excited about, no matter if it's saved for a summit celebration or wolfed down a mile in.