Traveling can be an exciting experience for anyone. But for those who are vegan or are trying to eat healthier, plant-based foods, finding suitable snacks can be difficult. Even for non-vegans, finding healthy and nutritious snacks while on the go can be a challenge.
Fortunately, with a little research and planning, there are many plant-based snack options that cater to the needs of vegan travelers. To help guide your research, here are 9 of the best plant-based snacks to fuel your next travel adventure:
1. Dried Fruit
Always good with its long-lasting shelf life, dried fruit is a fantastic travel snack that offers a great source of vitamins and minerals. It’s also a great way to get your daily dose of fiber, especially when consumed with nuts and seeds as part of trail mix. Some popular dried fruit options include dried cherries, apricots, dates, figs, and apples.
They’re super easy to pack and can be enjoyed on their own or mixed with other snack ideas mentioned below.
2. Nuts and Seeds
Fiber-rich and nutrient-dense, nuts and seeds are high in protein and healthy fats, making them a satiating option for an on-the-go snack. When traveling, you can bring a mix of almonds, walnuts, cashews, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds. To make your own trail mix, simply combine your favorite nuts and seeds with dried fruit and a handful of dark chocolate chips.
3. Granola Bars
A convenient option for those who are always on the go, granola bars are an easy store-bought option that you find almost anywhere. They’re also simple to make at home. With granola bars, there are many vegan options available that are made with ingredients like oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
Look for granola bars that are high in protein, low in added sugars, and free of any dairy to ensure they’re completely plant-based.
4. Plant Protein Powder
This may seem like an unconventional travel snack suggestion. But if getting your nutrition and protein is a high priority, then a plant-based protein powder is a simple, drinkable snack that you can easily mix with water.
While there are countless options available, Orgain Simple Protein Powder is a trusted vegan option that contains a minimal ingredient list with no added fillers or artificial flavors. It also tastes great. For more ideas, check out these best-tasting vegan protein powders that you can easily find online and pack in a small bag.
5. Roasted Chickpeas
A rather new and popular vegan snack for on-the-go traveling, roasted chickpeas are a crunchy, savory snack that is high in protein and fiber. You can easily make your own by tossing chickpeas in a bit of olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then roasting them in the oven until crispy. That, or you can find an abundance of chickpea snack options at grocery stores.
6. Fresh Fruit
If dried fruit is not available, fresh fruit is a tasty and healthy option for anyone looking for a nutrient-dense snack on the go. Apples, bananas, and oranges are all easy to pack and great for a quick pick-me-up. Berries and grapes are also great options, but they can be a bit messier to eat.
Most stores and airport kiosks have fresh fruit options for travelers, so it’s a great snack option while in transit.
7. Plant-based Jerky
Although traditional jerky is made from beef or pork, there are now many plant-based options available that are made from jackfruit and soy protein. These vegan jerky options are a great source of protein and can be enjoyed as a snack or added to trail mix for a savory crunch. They also have a long shelf life that can last several months without needing to be refrigerated.
8. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is a great option for those with a sweet tooth. Look for bars that are at least 70% cocoa to get the most health benefits. Dark chocolate is high in antioxidants and can help to reduce the risk of heart disease. Dark chocolate is also rich in minerals, such as iron, magnesium, and zinc, which are not always easy to find on a vegan diet.
9. Nut Butter Packets
Nut butter packets are a convenient and tasty option for a mid-day snack. There are many options available, including almond butter, peanut butter, and cashew butter. Simply spread the nut butter on a slice of whole-grain bread or pair it with fresh fruit for a satisfying snack.
Wrapping Up!
In conclusion, traveling as a vegan doesn’t have to be a challenge. With these plant-based snack options, you can easily find tasty and nutritious snacks on-the-go. Whether you’re looking for something sweet, savory, or crunchy, there’s something for everyone on this list.