We’ve all been there: the open road, the wind in your hair, and a craving for something to munch on as you drive toward your next adventure.
Many of the snacks we reach for during these trips can be unhealthy, loaded with sugar, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients that can leave you feeling sluggish and uncomfortable.
Enjoy 20 of Unhealthy Road Trip Snacks & why they’re not great for you, and how they can impact your health. Buckle up and get ready to rethink your snack choices on your next road trip!
20 Unhealthy Road Trip Snacks:
1. The Sugar Rush: Candy and Sweets
Candy bars, gummies, and sugary treats are staples in many road trip snack packs. They promise a quick boost of energy, but they often come with a crash. Popular choices like Snickers, Reese’s, and M&Ms are packed with refined sugars and artificial ingredients, which provide empty calories with little to no nutritional value.
Why They’re Unhealthy:
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High in sugar, leading to blood sugar spikes and crashes.
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Packed with refined carbs and fats that offer little sustenance.
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Artificial colors and preservatives, which can negatively affect your mood and energy levels.
Alternatives: Instead of a sugar-laden candy bar, try opting for a piece of fresh fruit or a handful of unsweetened dried fruit. These options provide natural sugars and fiber, offering a more balanced and sustained energy release.
2. The Salty Side: Chips and Pretzels
It’s hard to resist the crunch of potato chips, pretzels, or cheese puffs when you’re on the road. However, these salty snacks are loaded with sodium and unhealthy fats, which can cause bloating, dehydration, and an increase in your risk of heart disease if consumed frequently.
Why They’re Unhealthy:
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Excessive sodium, which can lead to dehydration and high blood pressure.
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Artificial flavors and preservatives that can irritate your digestive system.
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High in unhealthy trans fats, which contribute to weight gain and cardiovascular issues.
Alternatives: Reach for roasted nuts, popcorn (without excessive butter), or whole-grain crackers. These provide more satisfying crunch and fiber while keeping your sodium intake in check.
3. The Fast-Food Trap: Pre-packaged Sandwiches and Fried Snacks
Gas stations and convenience stores often stock up on pre-packaged sandwiches, pizza slices, and fried snacks. While these may seem like quick and easy options, they’re often high in refined sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats. Think greasy pizza rolls, fried chicken, and instant noodles – they’re tempting, but not the best choices for your health.
Why They’re Unhealthy:
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Loaded with unhealthy fats and oils that contribute to weight gain and increase bad cholesterol levels.
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Contain preservatives and artificial ingredients to extend shelf life.
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Often high in sodium, which can contribute to bloating and dehydration.
Alternatives: Consider preparing some homemade wraps, veggie-filled sandwiches, or whole-grain salads ahead of time. These are not only healthier but will also save you money and ensure you’re getting the nutrients your body needs during long drives.
4. The Sneaky Sugary Drinks: Soda and Sweetened Beverages
A can of soda or a sweetened iced tea might feel refreshing during a road trip, but these sugary beverages are one of the worst offenders when it comes to your health. They contain high amounts of added sugars, which can lead to energy crashes, weight gain, and even diabetes if consumed in excess.
Why They’re Unhealthy:
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Packed with high-fructose corn syrup or refined sugar, contributing to weight gain and increasing the risk of diabetes.
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No nutritional value – just empty calories.
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Can dehydrate you, especially when consumed with salty snacks.
Alternatives: Drink water, herbal tea, or sparkling water with a splash of lemon for a refreshing and hydrating option. If you need a boost, try natural fruit juices (with no added sugar) or iced green tea.
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5. The “Healthy” But Not Really: Granola Bars and Protein Bars
Granola bars, energy bars, and breakfast bars are often marketed as healthy options. However, many are packed with sugar, artificial sweeteners, and processed ingredients that cancel out any benefits they may have. While they might provide a quick energy boost, they often come with a sugar crash afterward.
Why They’re Unhealthy:
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Many granola bars are high in sugar, even if they claim to be “healthy.”
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Processed oils and preservatives can contribute to weight gain and digestive issues.
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Artificial sweeteners can mess with your blood sugar levels.
Alternatives: Look for bars with no added sugar, high fiber, and whole-food ingredients. Or, you can prepare homemade energy bars made with oats, nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
6. The Unseen Culprit: Highly Processed Snacks
Many of the snacks available at gas stations and convenience stores are overly processed and come in flashy packaging. While they may seem convenient, these processed snacks often contain hidden sugars, preservatives, unhealthy fats, and excessive sodium. Examples include pre-packaged sandwiches, chips, and even “healthy” packaged dips and spreads.
Why They’re Unhealthy:
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High in trans fats, sugars, and sodium.
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Lack of nutrients – these snacks provide little more than empty calories.
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Often contain preservatives and artificial colors that can affect mood and energy.
Alternatives: Choose fresh fruits, veggies, or homemade snack packs with items like mixed nuts, hard-boiled eggs, or cut-up veggies with hummus. These options are nutrient-dense and will keep you feeling fuller for longer.
FAQs:
Q. Why are sugary snacks so common on road trips?
Sugary snacks are common on road trips because they are easy to grab, provide a quick burst of energy, and are often marketed as fun or indulgent. They are also lightweight and have a long shelf life, making them convenient for travel.
Q. What are some healthier alternatives to chips?
Healthier alternatives to chips include popcorn (without excessive butter), roasted nuts, trail mix, or whole-grain crackers. These options provide crunch without the excess salt and unhealthy fats found in chips.
Q. How can I avoid the sugar crash during a road trip?
To avoid a sugar crash, swap sugary snacks for options that provide longer-lasting energy, such as fruit, nuts, or homemade protein bars. Staying hydrated with water or herbal tea is also key to maintaining energy levels.
Q. Can I make my own road trip snacks?
Absolutely! Homemade snacks are a great option. You can prepare things like energy bars, wraps, veggie sticks with hummus, or trail mix. These options allow you to control the ingredients and avoid hidden sugars and preservatives.
Q. What are some good snacks for long road trips?
Good snacks for long road trips include whole foods like fresh fruit, vegetables, unsweetened dried fruit, raw nuts, and whole-grain crackers. These snacks are nutritious and will keep you feeling full without the crash that comes with sugary or processed options.
Last Call:
While unhealthy road trip snacks are often easy to find and satisfy our cravings, they can leave us feeling tired, bloated, and unwell.
The good news is that with a little planning, you can swap out these processed, sugary, and salty snacks for healthier alternatives that will keep you energized and satisfied during your journey.
Next time you’re planning a road trip, try preparing healthier snacks ahead of time, like trail mix, homemade wraps, fruit, or even a refreshing bottle of water with a few slices of cucumber.
Happy travels, and snack smart!
