Snacks to Pack for Your Outdoor Adventures

Whatever adventures bring you into the outdoors—hunting, fishing, hiking, snowmobiling, all of the above—it’s important that you recharge your energy throughout. Even on the days where it may not feel like you exerted much energy, just being out in the elements can zap your energy more quickly than you’d expect.

Fuel your body and mind wisely, so that you can make wise decisions in the outdoors. While flavor is a major factor, don’t choose your snacks solely based on taste—make sure there’s some nutritional value. It’s also important that your snacks are easy to pack and nonperishable. Pick a variety of snacks that are lightweight, easy to grab when you’re on the go, and that include a variation of protein, fat, fiber, carbs, and sodium.

Protein

Jerky products and protein bars are the most common types of on-the-go protein. When selecting jerky or snack sticks, choose high quality products that aren’t packed with sodium and sugars. Look for those with the shortest list of ingredients or make your own from your wild game harvests. The same methodology can be applied to all the protein bars out there. In that vein, find a bar that has the most natural ingredients (rolled oats, nuts, etc).

Tuna and hard-boiled eggs are also great protein sources that many people don’t think to pack. Plus, many grocery stores sell both in individual serving portions.

Fats

Nut butters and trail mixes pack in the healthiest fats, but we also can’t resist the blood sugar boost from candy bars. Not only are nut butters high in protein, but they’re also versatile and there are a variety on store shelves these days—almond, cashew, peanut, etc. You may find your preferred version in single serving squeeze pouches, but a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich works too. As hunting team manager Rachelle Hedrick says, “A peanut butter and jelly sandwich tastes so much better from a tree stand.” If you’d rather not make your own, an Uncrustable is a great option.

Like protein bars, there are many varieties of trail mixes out there, so it’s not hard to find a mixture you prefer. You can also create your own at home, with your preferred combination of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and even candies. A mixture that includes dried fruit will add natural sugars and fiber to the mix.

Fiber & Carbs

Round out your snack choice with items that will add fiber and carbs to your menu. Fruits and vegetables offer the most natural forms of both, so think carrot sticks, apples (whole or sliced), and dried fruits. In terms of fruit choices, bananas, oranges, and apricots have the added benefit of contributing potassium. Meanwhile, apple slices are great for dipping in your nut butter of choice. Crackers are also great for dipping, although pairing whole wheat crackers with cheese contributes calcium, protein, and carbs all at once. One of DSG Outerwear snow team member Kim Black’s go-to snacks are Honey Stinger Waffles, which sandwich a layer of honey between two thin waffles. Small, sweet, and lightweight, these snacks boast a fair amount of carbs, fiber, and protein.

Salt

As you sweat, salty snacks will help to replenish the sodium you lose. Practically anything salty will do—pretzels, chips, or salted nuts—although nuts are going to be the healthiest option. When we asked the DSG Outerwear ice fishing team what their favorite snacks were on the ice, a clear favorite was Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels (but candy was a close second).

Hydration

Finally, and this goes without saying, but the weight of carrying water is well worth it. It’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day, regardless of exertion levels. If you’re not a fan of classic H2O, you may opt for a sports drink with electrolytes—just avoid those with a lot of sugars. For wintertime activities, stay warm and hydrated with bone broth or tea packed along in a thermos.