When it comes to nutrition, having the right portable snacks for outdoor adventures can make all the difference in maintaining your energy and enjoyment. Finding healthy, portable snacks that don’t need refrigeration and provide lasting energy is key for fueling your adventure.
From protein-packed bars to savory bites and crunchy trail mixes, there are plenty of convenient options that are easy to pack and even easier to enjoy on the go.
In this list of the 20 best healthy, portable snacks for outdoor adventures, you’ll find a variety of options to keep you energized and satisfied, wherever your outdoor journey takes you.
20 Craveable, Natural Snacks for Outdoor Activities
1. Healthy Protein Bars
GoMacro Bars
These organic, plant-based protein bars are crafted with clean, nutrient-dense ingredients, making them a top choice for those seeking wholesome energy on the go. With unique flavor profiles like Coconut + Almond Butter + Chocolate Chips, GoMacro Bars provide a satisfying treat with a purpose — fueling both body and mind while supporting sustainable farming practices.
RXBARs
RXBARs keep it simple with just a handful of high-quality ingredients like egg whites, nuts, and dates. Each bar offers around 12 grams of protein and no added sugars, making them a great choice for sustained energy without the extra sweeteners. Popular flavors like Chocolate Sea Salt or Peanut Butter make them a tasty, filling option for outdoor adventurers.
Epic Bars
For a savory, protein-packed option, Epic Bars deliver with their meat-based protein bars made from high-quality animal ingredients. With unique flavors like Bison Bacon Cranberry and Chicken Sriracha, they offer a hearty, nutrient-rich snack that’s perfect for meat lovers needing a quick, satisfying energy boost during their adventures.
Promix Protein Puff Bars
Promix Protein Puff Bars are the perfect snack to fuel any outdoor adventure! These bars pack in a solid dose of protein to keep you energized on the trail, while their light, crispy texture makes them easy to enjoy on the go. With clean ingredients and delicious flavors, they’re a nutritious choice that doesn’t weigh you down. I love the Birthday Cake flavor and do my best to keep them stocked in my pantry.
2. Chomps Jerky
Chomps offers a delicious, high-protein snack that’s free from preservatives, artificial flavors, and added sugars, making it a clean, guilt-free choice for on-the-go energy. Their grass-fed beef and turkey jerky is a savory option that keeps you full and energized, thanks to its high-quality, sustainably sourced meat.
With flavors like Original Beef, Jalapeño Beef, and Italian Style Beef, Chomps adds variety and taste to your snack pack while delivering essential nutrients. For those who aren’t a big fan of beef (that would be me), I love their turkey jerky options! The classic Turkey flavor is my favorite.
3. Skinny Dipped Dark Chocolate Cups
For a sweet treat without the guilt, these chocolate-covered nut cups are made with minimal ingredients and are free from artificial additives. They provide a satisfying crunch while delivering healthy fats and protein, making them perfect for a quick energy boost on the go.
Individually wrapped for convenience, Skinny Dipped Dark Chocolate Cups treats are easy to toss in your bag and enjoy whenever a craving hits. To keep them cool, consider putting them in an insulated lunch box so you have a cool, sweet treat on a warm day.
Plus, the combination of rich chocolate and crunchy nuts makes them feel indulgent while keeping your snack game balanced and nutritious.
4. Trail Mix
A classic hiking snack, trail mix can be customized with your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. Look for mixes without added sugars or artificial ingredients for a wholesome option.
Nature’s Garden Organic Trail Mix Packs
Individual packs of organic nuts, seeds, and dried fruit that are perfect for snacking on the go, Nature’s Garden trail mix packs offer a classic healthy trail snack choice. Options like Cranberry Health Mix and Omega-3 Mix offer nutrient-dense variety and a balanced blend of flavors.
Trader Joe’s Go Raw Trek Mix
This simple mix combines raw almonds, walnuts, cashews, and dried cranberries for a naturally sweet and crunchy snack. Free from added sugars or oils, it’s a great pick for anyone looking to keep their energy up while hiking.
Sahale Snacks Classic Fruit & Nut Blend
Made with cashews, almonds, and dried apples, this blend is lightly seasoned with cinnamon for a hint of spice. Sahale’s mix provides a tasty combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying choice for outdoor adventures. When I say I’m obsessed with the Pistachio mix, I don’t say that lightly. It’s my ultimate charcuterie snack that’s easy to keep in my camper kitchen.
5. Fresh Fruit
Fruits like apples, bananas, pears, and oranges are hydrating and provide natural sugars for quick energy. They’re easy to pack and require no preparation.
6. Nut Butter Packets
Single-serving nut butter packets are convenient sources of protein and healthy fats, ideal for pairing with fruit, crackers, or just eating on their own. Brands like Justin’s offer almond and peanut butter options that are perfect for on-the-go snacking.
Justin’s Almond Butter Packets
Convenient single-serving packets of almond, peanut, or cashew butter, with natural flavors and no additives, Justin’s Almond Butter packets are a great snacking option for any type of trip. These packets are an easy way to add a creamy, nutritious boost to any snack break.
Barney Butter Packets
Unlike other nut butters, Barney Butter is made from blanched almonds for a smooth, creamy texture that’s irresistibly spreadable. With all-natural ingredients and no added sugar or salt, these convenient packets deliver pure almond goodness in every bite. Perfect for on-the-go, they’re easy to pack and add a tasty boost of energy to fuel your hike, camp, or beach day.
7. Baked Chickpeas
Crunchy baked chickpeas are high in protein and fiber, making them a satisfying and healthy snack for outdoor adventures. They come in various flavors and are lightweight for easy packing.
Saffron Road Crunchy Chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas in flavors like Sea Salt and Chipotle, offering a protein-packed, crunchy snack that’s high in fiber and minimally processed.
Biena Chickpea Snacks
Biena offers a range of flavorful options, including Habanero, Rockin’ Ranch, and Honey Roasted. These chickpeas are low in calories but rich in fiber and protein, perfect for a nutritious, savory treat.
The Good Bean Crispy Crunchy Chickpeas
Available in flavors like Sweet Sriracha and Mesquite BBQ, The Good Bean’s chickpeas are dry-roasted for a satisfying crunch. Made with non-GMO ingredients and packed with plant-based protein, they’re a tasty, guilt-free snack choice.
8. Vegetable Chips
Vegetable chips made from nutrient-dense ingredients like kale, sweet potatoes, or beets offer a crunchy, wholesome alternative to traditional chips, often without the excess oil and preservatives. These snacks deliver flavor and texture along with the added benefits of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Harvest Snaps Green Pea Snack Crisps
Made from whole green peas, Harvest Snaps are baked instead of fried, providing a light, airy crunch with added protein. Flavors like Lightly Salted and Wasabi Ranch keep things interesting while offering a healthier snack option. I was originally hesitant before trying these since peas are not my favorite vegetable. However, the light and crunchy texture make them addicting so I understand the hype.
Rhythm Superfoods Kale Chips
These dehydrated kale chips are seasoned simply and packed with essential vitamins and minerals. With flavors like Zesty Nacho and Cool Ranch, Rhythm Kale Chips offer a nutrient-rich, savory snack that’s both satisfying and nourishing. I’m looking forward to trying these! I love Kale and am hoping I love these too.
9. Homemade Granola Bars
Homemade granola bars are a fantastic, healthy snack for hiking and outdoor adventures. They are easy to make, customizable, and packed with energy-boosting ingredients that will keep you fueled on the trail. Here’s a simple recipe that combines wholesome ingredients without any preservatives or artificial additives.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy natural peanut butter (or cashew butter)
- ⅔ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Heaping ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 2½ cups whole rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips (or finely chopped dark chocolate)
- 3 tablespoons pepitas (or crushed nuts like peanuts or cashews)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large bowl, stir together the peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in the rolled oats, mini chocolate chips, and pepitas. The mixture may seem dry at first, but keep stirring until everything is fully incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use your hands or a spatula to firmly press the mixture into an even layer. You can cover it with another sheet of parchment paper to help flatten it out.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the bars to set.
- Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into squares or rectangles as desired.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage.
10. Dried Fruit
Dried fruits like apricots, mangoes, or apples are a convenient, concentrated source of energy packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Just be sure to choose options without added sugars to keep your snack as wholesome as possible.
That’s It Fruit Bars
That’s It bars are made solely from two types of fruit, such as Apple + Blueberry or Mango + Apple, without any added sugars or preservatives. With just pure fruit, they’re a simple, healthy choice that’s easy to pack and enjoy on the go.
Solely Organic Dried Fruit
Solely’s dried fruit options are organic and free from added sugar and preservatives, making them a nutrient-dense and naturally sweet snack. Choices like Mango Strips and Pineapple are chewy, satisfying, and perfect for outdoor adventures.
RIND Snacks
RIND’s dried fruit snacks include the skin, adding extra fiber and nutrients. Options like Tropical Blend (pineapple, kiwi, and orange) or Orchard Blend (apple, peach, and persimmon) provide unique, flavorful combinations with no added sugars or preservatives.
11. Simple Mills Cheddar Pop Mmms Baked Snack Crackers
I recently discovered the Simple Mills Cheddar Pop Mmms Baked Snack Crackers, and I am hooked! They are a flavorful, crunchy snack made with simple, clean ingredients. They’re essentially a healthier version of Goldfish! The salt profile is similar but these cheddar-flavored crackers are gluten-free, made from almond flour, and baked to perfection for a light, airy texture.
Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just need a quick snack, these crackers provide a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, all in a convenient, on-the-go pack. Plus, they’re free from artificial flavors and preservatives, making them a wholesome and nutritious trail snack.
12. Pickles
When it comes to hiking snacks, pickles might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but they deserve a spot in your pack! These crunchy, tangy treats are not only delicious but also incredibly hydrating. Pickles are low in calories and high in electrolytes, making them an excellent choice for replenishing your body after a long trek. Their natural sodium content helps maintain hydration levels, especially on hot days.
Oh Snap! Pickling Co.
Oh Snap! offers single-serve pickle pouches in flavors like Dilly Bites and Hottie Bites, perfect for satisfying your savory cravings. These crisp, fresh-packed pickles come without brine, making them mess-free and easy to enjoy anytime, anywhere.
SuckerPunch Gourmet
SuckerPunch Gourmet delivers pickle packs in unique flavors such as Spicy Garlic and Bread & Butter Chips. Their single-serve packs are perfect for on-the-go snacking, providing a flavorful, crunchy treat without the fuss of brine or extra packaging.
Van Holten’s Pickles
Van Holten’s is known for their “Pickle-In-A-Pouch” options, including classic flavors like Dill, Hot & Spicy, and Sour. These large, shelf-stable pickle pouches are a great way to enjoy a savory snack on the trail, with no refrigeration required.
13. Olives
Portable and rich in healthy fats, olives make for a savory snack that’s easy to carry along on hikes. Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, olives provide a satisfying, salty crunch that complements sweeter snacks like dried fruit or granola bars. Their natural sodium content helps replenish electrolytes lost during vigorous activities, making them an excellent choice for hydration and energy maintenance on the trail.
Conveniently available in single-serving packets, such as Oloves, these pitted olives are easy to pack and enjoy without the mess of traditional jars.
14. Cheese Sticks or Babybel Cheese
Individually wrapped cheese sticks or Babybel cheese are perfect portable snacks for outdoor adventures, providing a convenient and nutritious option while you’re on the go. These snacks are rich in protein and calcium, offering a satisfying and energy-boosting bite during activities like hiking or camping.
The single-serving sizes are easy to pack and don’t require refrigeration, making them ideal healthy hiking snacks for long days on the trail. The protective wrappers keep the cheese fresh and mess-free, ensuring you can enjoy a quick, hassle-free snack anytime.
15. Rice Cakes with Nut Butter
Rice cakes topped with nut butter are the perfect natural snacks for outdoor activities, combining a crunchy texture with a creamy, satisfying spread. Light yet filling, this snack offers a great balance of carbohydrates for quick energy and healthy fats to keep you fueled for longer.
Whether you’re hiking, biking, or enjoying a picnic in nature, rice cakes with nut butter are easy to pack and can be customized with your favorite nut butter, adding a delicious flavor boost to your outdoor adventures. The portability and simple ingredients make this snack a simple, energizing choice for any activity, providing both nourishment and satisfaction with every bite.
16. High-Protein Energy Bites
Homemade energy bites made from oats, nut butter, honey, and mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit are the perfect no-bake energy bites for hiking. These bite-sized snacks are packed with wholesome ingredients that provide a quick energy boost, offering a great combination of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and natural sweetness to keep you energized on the trail. Easy to make ahead and take along, these bites are a satisfying and mess-free option for outdoor adventures, ensuring you have a nutritious snack whenever you need it most.
Bobo’s Oat Bites are another excellent option for on-the-go nourishment. These mini oat bars, available in flavors like Apple Pie and Peanut Butter & Jelly, are hearty and filling while featuring clean, simple ingredients. They provide a balanced snack that’s perfect for fueling your hike, offering a delicious blend of oats, natural sweetness, and protein-packed nut butter. I love the classic chocolate chip flavor!
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a more substantial snack, Bobo’s Oat Bites or homemade no-bake energy bites are an easy and tasty choice for outdoor excursions.
17. Coconut Chips
Lightly toasted coconut chips offer a sweet crunch while providing healthy fats — great for satisfying cravings without the guilt. Their natural sweetness and crisp texture make them a delicious alternative to sugary snacks, perfect for when you’re craving something satisfying but want to stick to wholesome options.
Packed with fiber and essential nutrients, coconut chips are also a great source of energy, making them an excellent addition to any outdoor adventure or as a midday pick-me-up. They offer a nutritious and flavorful way to indulge your taste buds at home and on the go.
18. Popcorn
Air-popped popcorn is a low-calorie snack that can be seasoned with spices or nutritional yeast for added flavor without preservatives. It’s also a high-fiber option, helping to keep you satisfied between meals while offering a light yet satisfying crunch.
Perfect for packing in a bag for a hike or enjoying during a movie night at camp, air-popped popcorn is a versatile, healthy snack that you can easily customize to suit your taste.
19. Sweet Potato Chips
Baked sweet potato chips are a nutritious alternative to regular chips — rich in vitamins A and C while providing fiber. These chips offer a naturally sweet flavor and a satisfying crunch, making them a perfect snack for when you’re craving something crunchy but want to make a healthier choice. A friend introduced me to the Terra sweet potato chips when I lived in Atlanta, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
Packed with antioxidants, they also support immune health and are a great addition to any balanced diet. Whether you’re enjoying them at home or taking them along on an outdoor adventure, baked sweet potato chips are a tasty and wholesome snack option.
20. Edamame
Roasted edamame is high in protein and fiber while being easy to pack and eat on the go — perfect for refueling during hikes. This crunchy snack not only provides a satisfying texture but also helps support muscle recovery and keep you energized throughout the day.
Rich in vitamins and minerals, it’s a great source of plant-based protein, making it an ideal option for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Fuel Your Outdoor Adventure with Natural Snacks
Food is both medicine and fuel. By intentionally provisioning for your outdoor adventures, you’ll have access to healthy, whole foods that keep you satisfied while exploring the great outdoors.
Packing portable, nutritious snacks ensures you stay energized and nourish your body with quality ingredients. From jerky and cheese sticks to chickpeas and popcorn, there’s a wide variety of delicious options to fuel your journey.
So gear up with these craveable snacks next time you hit the road or the trail, and enjoy every moment of your outdoor experience!
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