Diet and Dental Health

Trail Eating Tips

Since I’ll be going on a little outdoor and adventure weekend trip with some of my buddies this weekend, I started to think about what I’d be taking along with me for food and snacks.

You see, when you try to cram too many physical outdoor activities into one day, the sun and physical exertion to keep going all day long can really get to you. So, I’m doing my best to prepare everything I need snack wise in order to keep my energy boosted and my mood in high spirits.

We plan on arriving to our campsite early in the morning tomorrow. After setting up what we need to, we’ll head out for a 2 hour hiking trip while the morning air is still cool and our energy and spirits are up for the day. This is a crucial time to have snacks on hand since so much of hiking is an uphill power walking battle. (And going with friends who are in shape and competitive about hiking can really gas you out haha.)

From there, we’ll be taking a 3-mile canoeing trip on the river. While canoeing is pretty easygoing if you just coast, it can be a bit more physically demanding if you make it hard on yourself by going against the current, paddling quickly, or are out in the sun drinking all day. Thus, snacks are again needed to keep your stomach satisfied, give yourself a nice base if you are drinking, and to keep you energized.

Without further adieu, here are some healthy snacks to bring on hiking and camping trip.

Granola/protein bar

Without a doubt, protein bars like these are made for hiking and camping. They’re small and inconspicuous in your pack (and weigh next to nothing). They’re packed with good sources of energy and protein. Bonus points if you can grab a plant-based protein bar which is even healthier for you!

Trail mix

There’s a reason this snack has the name trail mix, and it’s not because it’s a mix of all sorts of things found on a trail. No, trail mix is made for the trail. When you need something to occupy your grumbling stomach and a quick boost in energy while out on a hike, trail mix is the go-to snack for re-energizing and waking yourself up!

Fresh fruit

What’s more natural than fresh fruit? Nothing, really. Having a peach, apple, banana, or some berries on you when you’re hiking or just camping is an amazing way to send good sugars right into your bloodstream for some quick and natural fuel. The best part is that there is zero trash to worry about and you can toss your apple core, peach pit, or banana peel on the trail and keep on walking. Hurray for decomposition!