Traveling and healthy eating don’t always go hand-in-hand. In fact, it’s quite the opposite! Between the super-sized (and overpriced) candy bags that are sold at the airport kiosks, the processed snacks passed out on the plane, and the flight delays that force people to snag whatever airport dinner is open at 11 pm, it can certainly be a challenge to eat healthily when at the airport. However, there’s good news — as more and more people recognize the importance of healthy eating, we’re starting to see a surge of better-for-you options in airports around America. So, skip the bag of grab-and-go junk, and read on to find the healthiest airplane travel snacks that are portable, pack a punch in the nutrition department, and (perhaps most importantly) taste delicious!
8 Healthy Packable Airplane Travel Snacks
Packing your own snacks when you are going to be flying may not be top-of-mind while you are gathering your best travel outfits and searching for your passport. But tossing some healthy packable airplane travel snacks can be heaven-sent if those pesky hunger pangs strike when you are nowhere close to an airport kiosk, and the travel attendants have their seatbelts fastened. And, let’s not discount travel delays and other unexpected events that can leave you wishing for a nosh.
Ahead are some good-for-you healthy packable airplane travel snacks that are easy to eat when you are coasting up in the clouds.
Protein Bar
Protein bars may be the most obvious choice for packable snacks, and for good reason. As a portable protein option that doesn’t require any refrigeration, these convenient bars can offer some serious satisfaction when hunger strikes. Just choose options that are lower in added sugar, and you should be well on your way to traveling healthfully.
Some healthier options available at most locations include:
And if you’re lucky enough to come across a kiosk with a well-stocked fridge, be on the lookout for Perfect Bars or Elemental Superfood Bars!
Dried Fruit
Dried fruit that is made with no added sugar can fuel your body with antioxidants to support your overall health. And if you become less regular in the bathroom department when you are traveling (as many of us are), the natural fiber found in the fruit may help you go number two a bit easier. Bonus? Dried fruit can satisfy even the fiercest sweet tooth, allowing you to skip the candy craving.
RELATED: 95% of People Aren’t Eating Enough of This Nutrient
Roasted Pistachios
Protein, fiber, and healthy fats are the macronutrient trifecta when it comes to components of a satisfying snack, and pistachios check all three of those boxes. Snag a bag of flavored pistachios (like sea salt and vinegar) for a delicious and good-for-you sub for potato chips. Your tummy and taste buds will thank you for it.
Cheese Crisps
Cheese crisps (not to be mistaken for cheese-flavored chips!) are snacks made with 100% real cheese and are a great way to include protein in your snack routine without having to worry about refrigeration or spoilage. Snacking on cheese crisps can give your body some serious protein, making for a great addition to any carb-packed snack.
Instant Oatmeal
For a heartier airplane snack, bring along a packet of instant oatmeal (a variety made with little added sugar). Once you are up in the air, ask the flight attendant for some hot water and a cup. Mix your oats with the water, and you have a stick-to-your-ribs snack right at your fingertips. Oats contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, making it a great choice to support both gut and heart health when you are on the go.
Here are some great instant oatmeal options that are made with wholesome ingredients and are lower in sugar:
- Purely Elizabeth Superfood Oatmeal
- Nature’s Path Qia Superseeds & Grains Oatmeal
- Bob’s Red Mills Classic Instant Oatmeal Packets
Trail Mix
Whether you’re making your own blend at home or grabbing a nutritious option at the store, trail mix is a great option for travel days. Full of omega-3s, plant-based protein, and various antioxidants (depending on what’s in your blend), it’s a great way to satisfy both your sweet and savory tooth without sacrificing your goals. Just be sure to read the ingredient label!
Air-Popped Popcorn
Snack pack popcorn bags make a great travel companion. As a low-calorie and carb, volume-rich snack, you can enjoy a large serving without tons of added calories. Plus, if reaching for a mindful brand like Lesser Evil, you’ll skip all the sneaky and processed ingredients, and fuel your body with only the good stuff (things like coconut oil, organic popcorn, and a hint of salt — that’s it).
Nut Butter Packets
Grab-and-go nut butter packs are perfect for traveling. Most packaged brands are TSA-friendly (under 3.4 ounces), making them easy to throw in your bag or carry on. Plus, they’re already portioned, meaning you don’t have to worry about overdoing it on the calories. Pair it with a piece of fresh fruit, and you have a healthy snack that’s full of fiber, healthy fats, and protein!
Healthier Airport Snack Options
If packing snacks has completely slipped your mind before you made it to the airport (it’s ok — it happens to the best of us), all hope is not lost. Among the fried and sugary snacks on the airport store shelves, there are some hidden gems that are as good for you as they are delish.
If you are close to boarding your plane and you don’t want to risk hearing tummy grumbles once you are airborne, here are some healthy airport snack options you can explore.
Fresh Fruit
Many airports now offer fresh fruit as a snack. From a pre-washed and wrapped pear to a cup of ready-to-eat grapes, the fresh fruit options appear to be plenty. While this may be a pricier option, it will be well worth the investment if you get them for the nutrients you get from each bite!
Hard Boiled Eggs
While we wouldn’t recommend eating hard-boiled eggs on the airplane (they can give off an odor that may offend your airplane neighbor), snacking on one or two pre-boarding can give you a boost of protein and many nutrients like vitamin B12 and iodine. These eggs are usually sold pre-shelled, so you don’t even have to worry about making a mess when you eat them.
Yogurt
As long as the yogurt you are grabbing doesn’t contain large amounts of added sugar, yogurt can be a great airport snack that is sold in many airports. The protein and carb combo can help keep you going when you are running to catch your next flight!
Overnight Oats
Many kiosks are equipped with fridge sections that carry overnight oats, such as Mush Oats, a healthy pre-packed option full of whole foods and good-for-you nutrients. Rich in satiating fiber and even made with non-dairy milk, this a great option to snag if you see it at your local airport.
Pre-Planning When Traveling Can Go A Long Way
If you are trying to keep your healthy lifestyle in check when you are taking a trip that requires flying, know that with a little pre-planning, attaining your goal is entirely possible. The few minutes it takes to remember to pack healthy snacks can be a lifesaver when hunger strikes during your travels. And if you happened to forget to pack your snacks (or you already ate them all), thankfully, there are some healthy options that you can buy right at the airport too!
