RV travel has recently gained popularity, especially among avid travelers who enjoy road trips and exploring new places. Whether visiting a national park, going for a getaway, or an outdoor adventure, recreational vehicle or RV travel is the way to go.
Given the many hours on the road, staying healthy during RV travel is advisable by consuming healthy foods. However, the RV storage is limited and its kitchen is small. Therefore, while you may want to stock enough food for your trip, insufficient space to place your freezer, refrigerator, and food cabinets will call for healthy snacking as an option.
Benefits of Healthy Snacking for RV Travelers
Healthy snacking will benefit RV travelers in the following ways:
- Increased energy levels
- Better digestion - Healthy snacks are also rich in fiber that aids digestion, given your limited physical activity while on the go.
- Overall well-being - With healthy eating, you will attain good mental and physical health.
Planning Ahead: Preparing Snacks Before Your Trip
If you plan to visit several destinations during your RV travel, you will spend hours on the road and lack time for meal preparation. To avoid overreliance on the supplies at your gas station, buy all the healthy snacks for road trips, prepare them beforehand, and pack your salt, herbs, and spices to make your snacks tasty. Carrying enough snacks for the trip is also advisable to avoid wastage.
Planning and preparing your road trip snacks is advisable for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Preparing your RV snacks is also economical, as you will save on purchasing processed foods.
Top Snack Choices for Your RV Travels
The following are the best healthy road trip snacks for your next RV tour.
Fresh Fruits
Fresh fruits contain Vitamins and fiber. Vitamin C, contained in large quantities in citrus fruits, is an immune booster, and frequent consumption will promote good health. You can also consider long-lasting fresh fruits like apples and pears, as these do not need much refrigeration. Snacking on these fruits is also easy while on the go, as you can eat them whole or sliced. An apple and pear will last up to a week at room temperature and more under cooler temperatures. If you have a freezer, consider more fruit options, such as grapes which have a shorter shelf life.
Vegetable Sticks
Consider celery sticks and baby carrots to get your vegetable supply while on the go. You can pair your vegetable with hummus, which is rich in B vitamins and proteins.
Trail Mixes and Nuts
Trail mixes, whether homemade or premade, are another healthy snack for road trips. Premade trail mixes contain a mix of raw and roasted nuts, rich in healthy fats and proteins. Your body will take time to process trail mix, and you will feel energized and full, especially during a long drive. You want to watch your weight, and selecting a trail mix with minimal candy is advisable.
Jerky
Jerky comprises the ultimate protein source for RV travel. While you can purchase jerky at the gas stations, most of them are loaded with preservatives; hence advisable to make one at home.
Hard-Boiled Egg
Adding hard-boiled eggs to your RV road trip snacks list will ensure a rich supply of protein. Hard-boiled eggs come with natural packaging and are easy to grab while on the go. You can flavor your egg with salt and spices to your liking.
String Cheese
Contrary to popular opinion, adults can also consume string cheese while on the go. String cheese comes in convenient packaging, pre-measured into healthy servings, so you do not have to worry about high-fat consumption.
Whole Grain Crackers
Crackers are among the snacks that can easily go from healthy to unhealthy, depending on your consumption type. Whole grain crackers are a healthy option as they contain the three parts of the grain, hence rich in fiber and healthy fats and proteins. Consider whole grain crackers if you need calories to make it to the next town for lunch. The fiber content will make you feel full immediately, limiting your calorie intake while on the go.
Popcorn
Popcorn is a healthy road trip snacks alternative to fatty and salty potato chips. Besides its satisfying crunch, popcorn is loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. Since popcorn differs in quality, look for healthy popcorn in the gas station or grocery store; if you have a stove or microwave, consider homemade popcorn using a dash of salt and olive oil.
Conclusion
Frequent traveling often puts individuals in the temptation to grab processed foods. While these foods will satisfy your hunger, they will eventually compromise your overall health, especially if you are a frequent traveler. Therefore, before your next RV travel, consider early preparation with nutrient-rich snacks to grab while on the go. Finally, remember to hydrate by drinking enough water throughout your trip.