By Deb Lowther, GoGirlfriend contributor

5 healthy snacks for on-the-go travelers

Travel season is fast approaching – which for us is every season. But no matter. Whether you’re off on a tropical vacation, a ski trip with your friends or a road trip to visit family across the count you’re going to get hungry!

Gone are the days of a meal or light snack on most commercial airlines and roadside fruit stands. Welcome to the world of high-fat, low-nutrient packaged processed snacks and meal replacement options. Coffee shops and airport eateries are chock full of muffins and salads but its buyer beware as many of these seemingly good for you offerings are hiding unhealthy habits.

How can you take your healthy eating with you on the road or while traveling to your relaxing tropical vacation? We’ve got a few ideas that might help …

5 healthy AND delish travel snacks!

Trail mix – Make your own trail mix by combining almonds, cashews, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and walnuts to reap the benefits from the calcium, selenium, protein, fiber, omega 3s, vitamin E and antioxidants these nuts provide. The B vitamins in the nuts will keep your energy levels up while traveling and the seeds will give you something to munch on during longer trips.

Dried fruit – Since the moisture’s been removed, some dried fruits can be high in sugar. Munch wisely. Dried apricots, prunes, mango, raisons, cranberries and blueberries will offer plenty of vitamins, antioxidants and fiber while their sweet taste will liven up your trail mix.

Roasted chickpeas – If you like crunchy snacks that are low in fat, high in protein and fiber and full of flavor try roasting chickpeas. Easy to do (400 degrees for 35-45 minutes), they are so versatile you can get creative with flavors like garlic, cayenne pepper, curry powder or honey and cinnamon. Yum!

Nut-free chocolate power balls – No baking required for these yummy chocolate treats that are chock full of protein, fiber and potassium. These nut-free chocolate power balls are made with dates, which satisfy that chocolate craving without the sugar. They travel well and don’t require refrigeration. 

Fresh fruit & veggies – If you’re flying domestic or driving to a destination with a fridge, stock your bags with fresh vegetables and sliced fruit.  An orange goes great with trail mix, apples slices can be dipped in protein-packed natural peanut butter, grapes and melon travel well in a sealed container and raw carrots, red peppers, cucumber, and broccoli are perfect for hummus.

With all these healthy snacks along for your journey you’ll be well fed and feeling fantastic as you reach your vacation destination. Healthy travels!

What's your travel solution for avoiding the pitfalls of the high-fat, low nutrient offering. We'd love to hear your secrets. Share with us in the comments below or with GoGirlfriend's Facebook or Twitter pages!

About Deb Lowther

Deb is a mother of 3 young daughters who, when not running after the kids, is running in the trails. She ensures her own kids are having fun while being active and eating healthy.  Writing for many website and magazines, Deb’s goal is to inspire others to raise healthy, active families. Follow her on Twitter, Pinterest and explore more of her healthy tips.