Healthy Snacks for Outdoor Activities

Whether you're setting out for a short day hike, a weekend camping trip, or a summit-chasing backcountry expedition, the right snacks can make all the difference. Choosing healthy snacks for outdoor activities ensures your body gets the energy it needs without weighing you down.

Below, we’ll break down expert-approved snack ideas, how to pack them, and what to look for on your next grocery run, plus a section specifically for parents hiking with kids.

Why Healthy Snacks Matter During Outdoor Activities

When you're active outdoors, your body quickly taps into its energy reserves. Hiking, biking, paddling, or climbing all demand a combination of endurance and power, which means your nutrition strategy shouldn’t be an afterthought.

Healthy snacks for outdoor adventures help:

• Maintain stable energy levels
• Support muscle recovery and endurance
• Prevent energy crashes that can make outdoor fun feel like a slog

Look for snacks that combine complex carbs (for sustained energy), protein (for muscle support), and healthy fats (for longer-lasting fuel).

Top 7 Healthy Snacks for Outdoor Activities

These trail-tested options balance nutrition, portability, and taste:

1. DIY Trail Mix
   Combine nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and a touch of dark chocolate. This snack hits all the macronutrient groups and is endlessly customizable. Try one of the trail mix recipes below!

2. Nut Butter Packets + Whole Grain Crackers
   Nut butters are calorie-dense and satisfying. Pair with crackers or apple slices. Need a more classic option? You can't go wrong with a PB&J

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3. Beef or Turkey Jerky
   High in protein, low in sugar—choose minimally processed versions without artificial additives.

4. Roasted Chickpeas or Edamame
   Crunchy, protein-rich, and shelf-stable.

5. Energy Balls or Bars
   Homemade or store-bought, look for bars with 5–10g of protein and less than 8g of added sugar. These make excellent energy-packed snacks.

6. Dehydrated or Freeze-Dried Fruit
   Great for a sweet bite that won’t spoil in your pack.

7. Hard-Boiled Eggs (Short Hikes Only)
   If your hike is under a few hours and you have a cooler or insulated container, this is a protein-packed winner. Cheese sticks and deli meat are other great options for shorter adventures.

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Tips for Packing Your Hiking and Outdoor Snacks

Think about three key factors: weight, spoilage, and mess. Here are a few packing tips:

• Use reusable silicone bags or beeswax wraps to reduce waste.
• Portion in advance to avoid mindless snacking or running out early.
• Layer quick-access snacks at the top of your daypack.
• Choose packaging that won’t burst open or leak — especially for things like nut butters or trail mix.

Trail Mix Recipes You’ll Actually Want to Eat

Try these nutrient-dense blends tailored for different needs:

Endurance Blend: Almonds, dried cherries, pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate chips, coconut flakes

High-Protein Crunch: Roasted soybeans, peanuts, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, puffed quinoa

Kid-Friendly Adventure Mix: Cashews, raisins, pretzels, mini chocolate chips, dried apple rings

These trail mix recipes balance taste, macros, and texture for ultimate adventure snacking.

Energy-Packed Snacks: Store-Bought Picks That Work

If you're not up for DIY, check labels and aim for a combo of 200–300 calories, 10g+ of protein, and minimal added sugars. Our go-tos:

• RXBAR or LaraBar Protein
• Chomps beef sticks
• GoMacro bars
• Epic bars (great if you crave savory)
• Dried fruit + almond snack packs

These energy-packed snacks are convenient, clean, and built for performance.

Don’t Forget to Hydrate: Smart Hydration Tips for Outdoor Adventures

Snacks are only half the equation—staying hydrated is just as important, especially in the heat or at high altitude. Proper hydration supports muscle function, cognitive clarity, and endurance.

Hydration tips:

• Aim for at least ½ to 1 liter of water per hour of moderate activity.
• Add electrolytes if you’re sweating heavily. Look for low-sugar tablets or powders like LMNT, Nuun, or Liquid I.V.
• Start hydrated before you hit the trail. Don't rely on thirst alone to cue you.
• Use hydration packs or water bottles with markings to track your intake.

Pairing your healthy snacks for outdoor activities with smart hydration ensures you're fully fueled and ready to explore.

Hiking With Kids? A Few Quick Tips

Though this guide is focused on adult-friendly nutrition, hiking with kids means doubling down on preparation. Here’s how to make it easier:

• Bring kid-approved versions of what you’re eating so they feel included.
• Pack more than you think you’ll need—kids burn fuel fast.
• Keep snacks accessible and plan snack breaks into the hike.

Trail mix, applesauce pouches, and nut butter sandwiches are great overlaps between kid and adult nutrition.

Final Thoughts: Let Your Healthy Snacks Support the Experience

When it comes to healthy snacks for outdoor activities, think beyond just calories. Focus on quality ingredients, good flavor, and smart preparation. The right fuel keeps you moving stronger, longer — and helps you enjoy the journey just as much as the destination.

Want a few more WAG resources to help you enjoy your outdoor adventures? 

Best Hiking Snacks to Pack Next Time You Hit the Trail
Counting Macros While Camping
Low-Calorie Protein Bars (That Still Keep You Full)
The Best Protein Bars for Muscle Gain

Or, get 1-on-1 support to fuel your day-to-day, exercise, and outdoor adventures! Learn more about WAG Nutrition Coaching here.

Happy adventuring!