Airplane travel can be exciting and tiring, especially for a teen like me. Amidst the anticipation of the journey, hunger pangs can strike unexpectedly. It’s essential to be prepared to ensure a smooth and satisfying trip. Packing the best snacks is crucial-easily accessible, healthy, and delicious snacks that won’t create a mess in the confined space of an airplane cockpit. Here are a few snacks I plan to bring on my upcoming trip. Let’s explore some delectable options that will satisfy my teen’s appetite and energize me throughout my journey.

1. Fruit Medley: A delightful assortment of fresh fruits is perfect and easy to pack. Wash and cut your favorite fruits, such as apples, grapes, berries, and oranges. Place the cut-up fruits in a resealable container or small zip-lock bags. Not only are fruits rich in vitamins and antioxidants, but they also quench your thirst and provide a refreshing burst of natural sweetness.
2. Nutty Delights: Nuts are a great source of healthy fats, proteins, and essential nutrients. Create a custom mix of your favorite nut, such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews. Add dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a savory and crunchy snack. Portion them into small containers for easy snacking during the flight.
3. Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Cut various veggies into sticks to dip with hummus. Crunchy carrot sticks, celery, cucumber, and bell pepper slices paired with a small container of hummus make for a healthy and delicious snack combo. Vegetables are packed with fiber and vitamins, while hummus adds a creamy and flavorful touch to the snack and provides healthy fat.
4. Cheese and Whole Grain Crackers: Cheese is an excellent source of calcium and protein, making it a filling and nutritious choice for teens like me. Individually wrapped cheese sticks or small cheese cubes with whole-grain crackers for a satisfying and balanced snack. I have gluten allergies, so I usually pack rice, lentil crackers, and vegan cheese like Daiya. If you have food allergies, be careful to choose the cheese and crackers you like. 
5. Granola Bars: Preferably homemade or store-bought, granola bars are a convenient option to keep hunger at bay. These are easy to make. Mix the Nutty Delight on #2 with almond or nut butter, roll them into coconut flakes, and have an excellent granola bar. But there are many options if you prefer to buy them. Look for bars that are low in added sugars and high in fiber, providing a quick energy boost during the journey.
6. Protein-Packed Sandwiches: Prepare sandwiches with whole-grain bread, lean meats like turkey or chicken, or smoke salmon; if you want to be fancy, add lettuce, tomato, and a light spread like mustard or avocado. These protein-packed sandwiches will you satisfied and provide essential nutrients.
7. Energy Bites: Create homemade energy bites with oats, nut butter, honey, and add-ins like chia seeds, dried fruits, or dark chocolate chips. These bite-sized treats are tasty and provide a great energy source during travel.
8. Yogurt with Berries: yogurt is rich in protein and calcium, and when paired with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey, it becomes a delectable and nutritious snack.
9. Rice Cakes with Nut Butter: Rice cakes are a lightweight, mess-free alternative to regular crackers. Spread nut butter (like almond, Macadamia, or cashew butter) on top, and add dry fruits and chocolate chips for a satisfying and healthy snack.
10. Dark Chocolate: Satisfy a sweet tooth with a small amount of dark chocolate. Dark chocolate is delicious, contains antioxidants, and can boost mood during long flights.

Use reusable containers or eco-friendly bags to pack healthy snacks to minimize waste and be mindful of potential allergies or dietary restrictions. Remember to stay hydrated by carrying a refillable water bottle and avoid excessive sugary beverages or energy drinks. Also, when you pack many high-water content fruits and veggies, such as cucumbers and watermelon, you can easily stay hydrated and need less water. 

Preparing various easy-to-pack, healthy, and delicious snacks for airplane travel can ensure a satisfying journey without feeling sluggish or hungry. The key is to balance taste and nutrition, making the travel experience enjoyable and stress-free. 

Bon voyage!

Bella H.