Spending time at the park is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, stay active, and relax with family and friends. But all that fun in the sun can work up an appetite, so it’s important to have some healthy snacks on hand to keep your energy levels up. Here are three easy, nutritious, and portable snacks that are perfect for enjoying at the park:
1. Fresh Fruit and Nut Butter
Fresh fruit is a naturally sweet and hydrating snack that’s easy to pack and enjoy at the park. Pairing it with nut butter adds a satisfying boost of protein and healthy fats, making it a more filling and balanced snack. Apples, bananas, and pears are great options that travel well and taste delicious when dipped in almond or peanut butter.
Why It’s Great: This snack is quick to prepare, rich in vitamins and minerals, and provides a good balance of carbs, protein, and fats. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults.
How to Pack It:
- Slice apples or pears and pack them in an airtight container with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Bring along single-serving packs of almond or peanut butter, or portion some out into a small container.
Recommended Product: Try Justin’s Classic Almond Butter Squeeze Packs for a convenient, on-the-go option.
Tip: If you’re concerned about allergies, consider using SunButter Sunflower Butter as a nut-free alternative.
2. Homemade Trail Mix
Trail mix is a classic portable snack that’s perfect for the park. By making your own at home, you can control the ingredients and ensure it’s both healthy and delicious. A good trail mix includes a mix of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and a small amount of something sweet like dark chocolate or coconut flakes.
Why It’s Great: Trail mix is easy to customize to your taste preferences and dietary needs. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you full and energized throughout your time at the park.
How to Pack It:
- Mix together a variety of nuts (like almonds, walnuts, and cashews), seeds (such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds), and dried fruit (like cranberries or raisins).
- Add a small handful of dark chocolate chips or coconut flakes for a touch of sweetness.
- Store your trail mix in a resealable bag or a portable container for easy snacking on the go.
Recommended Product: Use Ball Mason Jars to store your homemade trail mix, keeping it fresh and easy to pack.
Tip: Make a big batch of trail mix in advance and portion it out into individual servings to grab and go whenever you head to the park.
3. Veggie Sticks and Hummus
For a crunchy, savory snack that’s packed with nutrients, veggie sticks and hummus are hard to beat. Carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, and celery are all excellent options that are easy to prepare and pair perfectly with a variety of hummus flavors. This snack is not only refreshing but also provides a good dose of fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein.
Why It’s Great: Veggies and hummus are low in calories but high in nutrients, making this snack both satisfying and guilt-free. It’s also a great way to get in an extra serving of vegetables.
How to Pack It:
- Wash and slice your veggies into sticks or strips, and store them in a resealable bag or container.
- Bring along individual hummus packs or portion some out into a small container with a tight-fitting lid.
Recommended Product: Use Sistema To Go Collection Mini Dip Containers to pack your hummus securely without spills.
Tip: To keep your veggies extra crisp, pack them with a small ice pack or store them in a cooler bag.
Final Thoughts
A day at the park is all about enjoying the outdoors and spending quality time with loved ones, and having healthy snacks on hand can make your outing even better. Fresh fruit and nut butter, homemade trail mix, and veggie sticks with hummus are all easy-to-pack options that will keep you fueled and satisfied. Next time you’re heading to the park, grab one (or all!) of these nutritious snacks and enjoy your time in the sun.
