Summer is here and with it, a whole different level of busyness for our family. Don’t get me wrong, we have a packed schedule during the school year too. But it’s a more routine kind of busy, with specific times of day we’re out on a regular basis.
With summer, we’re a lot more likely to head out of the house for a fun activity with more spontaneity. And while I treasure these moments of summer fun with my boys (they’re only little once), it can really derail my healthy eating.
If I don’t have some sort of plan in place before we head out the door, I find myself either starving and HANGRY (no fun for anyone) or I find myself in the nearest drive-thru.
Neither option is great, y’all.
When we wake up to beautiful weather just begging us to hit the park, I don’t want to waste time figuring out snacks for everyone. But I don’t want to make decisions detrimental to my health either.
Instead, I’ve pre-packaged some healthy options we can grab and go!
Apple or Banana Slices with Nut Butter
Pick up single serve packets of peanut butter and you’re set. Grab a banana to go with it for the easiest option, or slice an apple and secure the slices with a rubber band to keep it from browning. The peanut butter is also a great source of protein and healthy fats!
I actually can’t have peanut butter anymore (it makes my joints ache like you wouldn’t believe!), so instead hubby and I rotate between Sunbutter, Cashew Butter, and Almond Butters.
Hummus and Chips
For this option, opt for healthier chips like rice chips, bean chips (I love Beanitos), or baked chips. Pick up the snack sized hummus cups and you’re good to go! You can also swap the hummus for guacamole, or the chips for veggies.
Protein Shakes
While protein shakes might not be the most exciting option, this is a really easy snack to have on-the-go. You can put a scoop of your protein powder in a shaker bottle and just add water or your milk of choice.
They also now make travel-sized blenders which are perfect for when you’re out or at work. If you have a blender, you can combine your favorite add-ins, like peanut butter, fruits, veggies and more. Talk about a nutrition packed snack!
Energy Balls
These are the perfect snack. Easy to make and easy to transport. My boys LOVE these too. I think they think they’re eating cookie dough. Most energy ball recipes call for protein powder, oats and your nut butter of choice. But you can add in almost anything.
These are one of our favorites.
Hard Boiled Eggs
While this might be the smelliest option on the list, it’s also one of the healthiest. Eggs are packed with protein, along with healthy fats to keep your heart healthy.
Overnight Oats
Overnight oats are super easy to make and take with you on your travels. You combine oats, your milk of choice, add-ins of choice (like honey or peanut butter) and place in a jar in the refrigerator overnight. Add in your fruit topping of choice in the morning.
Here are a few overnight oats recipes you can try.
Yogurt
There are so many delicious options for yogurt. Check the nutrition label to make sure it’s not too high in sugar. An ideal snack would be plain yogurt or Greek yogurt plus your favorite berries, topped with a drizzle of honey.
Turkey Roll-ups
If you love deli meat, this is the snack for you. Roll up your favorite deli meat with your choice of cheese, avocado, mustard, lettuce or anything else you usually like in your sandwiches.
Place in an airtight container and you’re good to go!
Tuna and Crackers
I know – another smelly option, but hopefully you can eat this outdoors. Canned tuna is perfect for those who live out of their car. Portable, quick and easy. Spread on crackers, pita chips or even veggies like celery or carrots for a great protein filled snack. If you don’t like tuna, you can also use canned chicken!
Kale Chips
Kale chips are easy to make and a great alternative to regular chips. Place small pieces of kale on aluminum foil, massage with olive oil, sprinkle salt and pepper and you’re done! You can also sprinkle some parmesan cheese if you’re craving a little cheesiness.
Eating healthy on the go is challenging, but it’s not impossible! With a little forethought and a bit of prep-work, you will make healthier choices when you’re out and about.