This article was originally written for Yoga Today. Visit their amazing blog here.
I know you can feel it. You’ve been cramming to finish up work projects, rush ordering those last few holiday gifts, and getting your calendar in order. Holiday vacation is coming!
And it’s going to be amazing. There is nothing like getting a few days off at the end of the year to celebrate with loved ones, and set intentions for your new year.
For many of us, this means…holiday travel, and lots of it. Unfortunately, this can bring up a lot of anxiety for those of us who prioritize self care and thrive in our routines (this includes me!). Long days on the road or running through airports mean time to nourish ourselves properly is very limited. Healthy food options along the way can seem just as limited.
So, how do we deal? The trick is: always go in prepared.
A client of mine is going out of town, so I loaded her up with all of the healthy snacks that we love. These snacks will help her stick to her healthy foundation, and keep her feeling good while away. Part of traveling is eating new foods, and enjoying meals with friends and family – so no need to stop that! I just recommend having some high-quality staples to help you stay on track.
Here are some of my favorites that I always pack:
Fresh cut fruit + veggies
I have gotten stopped going through security many times because of the veggies that I have in my purse (don’t worry, you can take them through!). I chop up any vegetables that I left in my fridge before leaving on vacation and bring them in a little bag with me. This way, I make sure I can get in my daily quota and have access to fresh foods. Fruits and vegetables are also high in both water and fiber, helping to keep you regular while on the road, which can be a big issue for many. You can even pack these in Stasher Bags or mason jars to save on plastic waste.
Individual plant-based protein powder packs
These are a lifesaver. Packed with protein, they will help keep you fueled up while traveling. You can also mix them right into a water bottle, which you can find basically anywhere, making them so easy to use. If I’m traveling in the morning, I will mix one right into a coffee that I grab on the road, and add in a bit of almond milk. I love my cold brew coffee, so mixing one of the packs in to my drink fits seamlessly into my day. They are also perfect for that afternoon snack craving. Packed with protein, no sugar, filling, and tastes like chocolate? Sign me up. My favorite brands that offer individual packs are: Vega One, and Amazing Grass.
Greens powder packs
Getting in your greens is so important, especially while traveling. I love packing greens powder packs to take with me to make sure I get in all of those alkalizing benefits. It really helps keep my health on track, and helps keep my immune system up! I mix it right into my protein powder, and wah-la, you almost have a complete breakfast. Some of my favorite brands are: Green Vibrance, and Amazing Grass.
Homemade trail mix
I love a good trail mix. Just make sure to keep them clean, ya know, without the chocolate pieces, toxic oils, and sugar coated dried fruit. My go-to combination is goji berries + almonds + pumpkin seeds + cacao nibs + coconut flakes.
Healthier protein/energy bars
We often think of protein and energy bars as healthy options. Truth is, there very likely aren’t. Most of them pack as much sugar and carbohydrates as a candy bar. Yes, seriously. These are two things that we definitely don’t need a lot of when sitting around all day traveling. Always check the ingredients, and make sure that you can pronounce them. If the ingredients list contains bad oils or added sugar, keep looking. Some of my favorites are: Bulletproof, Epic, and Primal Kitchen.
If you don’t have access to these, because they to require some forethought, you can typically find Kind Bars at a gas station or coffee shop. While they aren’t perfect, and some contain added sugar and soy, they are typically better than a lot of the others out there.
Seaweed snacks
They are like chips, but better. Ok, they aren’t exactly like chips…but they are pretty close! Perfect for when you just want something salty to snack on. I love this brand because they use only a few ingredients and no toxic oils.
Nut/seed butter packs
These make sure a great snack. You can keep them in your bag, and whip them out whenever you need. They make an amazing topping to a slice of gluten-free toast, a banana, an apple, or even oatmeal. They’ll add protein + healthy fat + and fiber to every meal or snack. No spilling, and no clean up. Artisana is my go-to for their super clean ingredients.
Hard boiled eggs
While the smell isn’t necessarily the best, the benefits are there. Hard boiled eggs make a super easy snack or meal add-on. They are packed with vitamin D, protein, and healthy fat. This powerful little snack is also super easy to throw in your bag, making it perfect for traveling.
Avocados
Yes, whole avocados. They are a great protein + fiber + healthy fat combination to keep those hunger pangs at bay. Those fresh veggies that I mentioned earlier….I dip them right into a half of an avocado. Delicious.
High-quality, gluten-free crackers
I love Mary’s Gone Crackers, Simple Mills, and my ultimate favorite, Flackers (super high in fiber). They make a perfect snack. Top them with some avocado or nut butter, and you are good to go.
So there you have it! Go in prepared, and ready to support yourself. That way, you can better enjoy those indulgences.
Are you doing a lot of holiday traveling this year? What are the snacks that you always pack with you?! Let me know in the comments below!
