Hiking Snacks To Fuel Your Next Adventure!
Hello friends! By the time you’re reading this, I’ll be three days into my five day “off the grid” backpacking trip. Social media is a huge part of what I do, and I truly love every minute of it, but I’m also looking forward to disconnecting for a few days and spending some much needed time in nature.
Let’s talk about what we should be prioritizing on the trail…
Carbs - Carbohydrates are your bodies main source of energy. When on longer hikes, you need to be continuously replenishing your glycogen stores so that your body has a steady source of incoming energy.
Sugar (YES, I said sugar) - While I usually wouldn’t recommend reaching for sugary snacks, your cells sometimes need fast energy while hiking. Sugar is quickly broken down and absorbed into your bloodstream for a (almost) instant boost of energy!
Protein - Protein keeps you full for longer and helps your muscles + tissues rebuild after a long day of hiking.
Healthy Fats - Being that fats are so nutrient dense, they are a great addition if needing to get in extra calories throughout the day.
Sodium - Sodium is an essential electrolyte lost through sweating. While it is important to stay hydrated with water, adding in electrolytes can help us rehydrate more quickly, and better retain fluids
Here’s what’s in my backpack to keep me, energized, fueled and ready to take on whatever adventures come my way!
Chomp Sticks - Chomp’s sticks are a ‘healthier’ version of classic jerky - free of artificial preservatives and made from grass-fed beef. They’re portable and pack a punch in terms of protein.
Justins Nut Butter - Nut butters are not only high in healthy fats, but they also contain protein and fiber! I prefer the single serve packs - I like the convenience of being able to hike and munch at the same time.
Freeze Dried Fruit - Fruit is full of natural sugars. Freeze dried fruit is also lightweight, doesn’t spoil and is quite refreshing on the trail!
Trail Mix - If only bringing one snack on the trail, this is it. Trail mix is portable, calorie and protein dense, satisfying, and easy to make or buy. Here’s what’s in mine:
M & M’s (m&m’s are more resistant to higher temps and less messy compared to chocolate chips)
Mixed salted nuts
PB pretzles (the BEST)
Dried fruit
Nuun Tablets - Nuun tablets are great for replenishing electrolytes, are easy to pack and are by far the best tasting electrolytes i’ve tried!
Honey Packets - If looking for a quick burst of energy, honey packets are my go-to option! Each one contains 12 grams of quick digesting carbs.
I’m no expert in hiking gear, but if you’re in the market for something new click here to check out what I’m using!
And one last thing, hiking snacks and leave no trace…. make sure you pack out everything you hike in! :)
Enjoy the trails!
