Traveling by air can be super exciting, especially during the summer when many of us set off to explore new destinations! Whether you're flying to visit family, heading off to summer camp, or exploring a new city, the journey is, of course, part of the experience. However, one aspect of air travel that often leaves much to be desired is the food.
Airplane meals are notorious for being bland, limited in options, and sometimes even unappealing. Plus, the food served on flights might not always align with your tastes or dietary preferences. That's why bringing your own snacks is not just a smart move—it’s essential. Packing your own snacks not only ensures you have something delicious to eat but also helps you avoid the high prices and limited selections found at airports, so you won’t have to pay twice the amount for water! To help you prepare for your next long flight, here are 9 of my favorite must-have snacks that are small, portable, and perfect for keeping you satisfied while you soar through the skies!
Carrot Sticks
Carrot sticks are a classic travel snack for a reason. They’re crunchy, refreshing, and packed with vitamins, making them a healthy choice for your next flight. They’re also high in beta-carotene, which is great for your skin and eyes—important when you’re dealing with the dry air on planes!
Simply wash and peel them, cut them into sticks, and store them in a small container or resealable bag. To make them even more enjoyable, pair them with a small container of hummus or ranch dressing. This adds a bit of flavor and makes your snack more filling!
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Popcorn
Popcorn is a light and tasty snack perfect for satisfying your mid-flight cravings. It’s low in calories, easy to pack, and offers that satisfying crunch that makes it a favorite among travelers. Popcorn takes up very little space and can be packed in a resealable bag or small container, making it incredibly convenient to bring on a flight. You can even get creative with your popcorn by adding a sprinkle of salt, a dash of cinnamon, or a little nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste!
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Sandwiches
The key to a good travel sandwich is choosing ingredients that won’t get soggy and keeping it simple. Sandwiches can be packed with proteins, healthy fats, and carbs to keep you full for hours, making them a reliable option for long journeys. You can tailor your sandwich to your tastes, whether it’s a classic peanut butter and jelly or a veggie-loaded option.
To ensure your sandwich stays fresh, use sturdy bread like whole grain or a baguette, which is less likely to get soggy. Avoid ingredients that can spoil quickly, like mayonnaise or egg salad! Cut your sandwich into halves or quarters, wrap them in parchment paper, and store them in a reusable sandwich bag. This makes it easy to eat on the go and helps prevent any messes!
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Dried Fruit
Dried fruit is a sweet and chewy snack that travels well and provides a quick energy boost. Whether you prefer apricots, mangoes, raisins, or another type, dried fruit offers a satisfying sweetness that’s both healthy and convenient. One of the best things about dried fruit is its long shelf life, meaning it won’t spoil easily, making it an ideal snack for long flights. Additionally, dried fruit is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthier alternative to sugary snacks!
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Trail Mix
Trail mix is a quintessential travel snack, perfect for flights because it’s easy to make, store, and eat on the go. The beauty of trail mix is its versatility—you can create your own mix with your favorite nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and even a little dark chocolate for a treat. Just be mindful of others on the plane with any allergies!
This combination provides a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbs to keep your energy up throughout your journey. The variety of textures and flavors in trail mix makes it a satisfying snack that can quickly curb hunger. Pack your trail mix in a small container or resealable bag, and you’re good to go. Just be mindful to avoid overly salty or sugary mixes to keep your snack healthy!
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Snackle Box
For those who love variety and want a bit of everything, a snackle box is the ultimate travel companion! While most of you probably know this from trending videos on social media, a snackle box is essentially a small, clear plastic box with dividers, allowing you to pack an assortment of snacks in one convenient container. Think of it as a bento box for snacks!
You can fill each section with different items like dried fruit, cheese cubes, crackers, veggie sticks, or even a few sweet treats like chocolate chips and candy. The snackle box allows you to bring a little bit of everything, making it perfect for long flights when you might crave different flavors at different times. It’s also great for portion control, as you can pre-pack just the right amount of each snack. Plus, the box keeps everything organized and prevents your snacks from getting squished in your bag!
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Rice Cakes
Rice cakes are a light and crunchy snack that’s easy to pack and versatile enough to be enjoyed with a variety of toppings. Whether you like them plain or flavored, they’re a great option for snacking at 30,000 feet! You can top your rice cakes with nut butter (please be mindful of allergies!), avocado, or cheese for a more filling snack. This way, you’ll have a tasty, customizable snack that’s easy to eat and perfect for long flights!
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Protein Bars
Protein bars are an easy snack, perfect for when you need something more substantial to keep you going during a long flight! Protein bars are designed to keep you full and provide energy for hours, thanks to their high protein content. They’re individually wrapped and easy to store in your bag, making them incredibly portable.
When selecting protein bars, it’s best to choose those with natural ingredients and avoid those high in sugar or artificial additives. This way, you can enjoy a healthy, satisfying snack that will keep you fueled throughout your journey!
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Cheese and Crackers
Pre-packaged cheese and cracker sets are convenient, or you can make your own with your favorite cheese and whole-grain crackers. This snack provides a good mix of protein, fat, and carbs, making it a balanced option that’s both tasty and filling. Pre-packaged options are easy to grab and go, but if you prefer to customize your snack, choose your favorite cheese—whether it’s cheddar, gouda, or a soft brie—and pair it with your preferred crackers.
Hard cheeses like cheddar are a great choice for flights, as they’re less likely to spoil! If you’re concerned about keeping your cheese fresh, store it in a small cooler bag!
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Conclusion
By packing your own snacks, you can ensure that you have something tasty and satisfying to munch on during your journey! These ten must-have snacks are perfect for keeping hunger at bay and making your flight more enjoyable. Whether you prefer something light like carrot sticks or need a more substantial snack like a sandwich, these options are sure to keep you satisfied from takeoff to landing. Happy travels!
