What’s better than the great outdoors? Eating food in the great outdoors (or eating food anywhere, but a little bit of nature isn’t too bad either). This is why, when planning a hike, the first thing you should decide is which snacks to bring. Then, you can think about the less important stuff, like warm clothing, boots and whether the hike is actually within your physical capabilities considering you almost had a stroke climbing the stairs earlier.
The right hiking snack needs to fit several specific, time-tested criteria: it should withstand the jostling of your (sort of) rigorous hike, provide you with nutrition and energy and, most importantly, taste as amazing as that feeling of finally reaching your destination. Don’t know where to start? Here are a few go-to snacks that’ll be sure to satisfy.
1. Granola
Photo by Sophia Jiang
Is an explanation really necessary? Granola may be the epitome of outdoorsy food. When was the last time you saw a granola advertisement that didn’t involve nature? It’s seemingly healthy and crunchier than you are. Plus, it’s pretty darn tasty.
2. Apples
Photo by Sophia Jiang
There’s nothing like a good old-fashioned fruit to make that extra two miles feel like one (or, if we’re going to be honest, more like one and three-quarters). A good apple will avoid bruising during the hike (more than you can probable say for yourself) and retain a good crunch throughout. Biting into a crisp apple is as refreshing for the mind as it is for the body. Plus, they go super well with peanut butter and…
3. Cheese
Photo by Sophia Jiang
At a fast food restaurant, cheese always seems kind of like a guilty addition to an undeniably unhealthy meal. But in the outdoors, a good cheese becomes everyone’s favorite hiking snack. On a hike, everyone’s face lights up when someone whips out a block of God’s gift to man. It’s like some kind of dairy-themed Christmas. Plus, cheese is the ultimate source of protein and goes with nearly anything, or just by itself because it’s delicious.
4. Sesame Sticks
Photo by Sophia Jiang
What are sesame sticks you ask? Only one of humanity’s greatest accomplishments. They’re crunchy, come in a variety of flavors (I prefer honey-roasted, but garlic and cajun aren’t bad either). Also, they’re addictive to the point where it’s slightly concerning. Sesame sticks are a life-altering snack that few can resist after the first bite. Try them. I dare you.