HEALTHY & CONVENIENT TRAVEL FOODS

Corey Grenz, MS
Nutrition & Fitness Coach

Summer is a time of the year many people are on the road more often due to family- or fun-related trips. While these trips are usually healthy in building and
maintaining relationships, they can be unhealthy regarding adding inches to your waistline. Here are 10 healthy foods that are convenient for travel:

Deli Meat: This protein option used to be very limited with Bologna and Ham being the only choices in the past. However, there are many companies now that offer healthier options like Chicken, Turkey, Roast Beef, etc.

*Tuna Creations: Starkist makes these and they are available in easy-to-open pouches so a can opener isn’t needed. Regarding variety there are MANY flavors to choose from like Hickory Smoked, Spicy Buffalo, Ranch, Garlic & Herb, etc.

Cottage Cheese: You can find single-serving containers that have a significant amount of protein. Some companies even have flavored versions like Strawberry
and Pineapple in addition to plain varieties.

Greek Yogurt: If you are looking for another protein-packed option you can’t go wrong with Greek Yogurt (KEY WORDS: Greek Yogurt and NOT Regular Yogurt).

String Cheese: This is another convenient way to get protein as each stick contains a significant amount and are great to have for snacks. You also have a few kinds to
choose from like Mozzarella, Cheddar, Pepper Jack, etc.

*Jerky: This used to be similar to Deli Meat as options used to be limited to low-quality Beef Jerky. Now you can find higher quality Beef Jerky, Turkey Jerky and
other options based on what store you shop.

Hard-Boiled Eggs: In addition to the raw versions, you can find eggs that are already precooked and peeled which gives you a combination of protein and healthy fat to eat right away.

*Nuts: When it comes to nut options, there are many to choose from like Almonds, Cashews, Pecans, Pistachios, etc. as well as mixed varieties. Single-serving packs are available to keep the combined calories of protein, carbs and fat lower.

Vegetable Packs: When it comes to vegetables, many companies have precut,
ready-to-eat options available like Baby Carrots, Celery, Radishes, Snow Peas, Sugar
Snap Peas, etc.

*Fresh Fruit: When it comes to fruit, you can’t go wrong with options like Apples, Bananas, Berries, Grapes, Oranges, Plums, etc. that can be eaten right away.

*These food options don’t need to be chilled which helps from the convenience factor.

All of the above food choices can be found at most major grocery stores so it’s a great idea to prepack your food prior to leaving. However, life happens and getting groceries prior to travel can be inconvenient especially when rushed. If this happens, you will likely be surprised by how many of the above options can be found at larger gas stations (especially truck stops) so make it a point to at least look.

Healthier eating isn’t as fun or convenient with the abundance of unhealthy options like cookies, crackers, chips, etc., available when traveling. However, you will have more energy to have fun and enjoy yourself at summer events and be more present with family and friends. In addition, looking better is always a plus too so let that be extra motivation!