Hitting the trails with your little explorers is a fantastic way to bond and enjoy nature. But let’s be real, tiny legs (and even tinier attention spans!) need constant fueling. The secret to a happy, energized hike often lies in packing the right provisions. You don’t want to get stuck on the trail with a hangry kiddo, trust us! That’s why choosing the best hiking snacks for kids is crucial.
Finding snacks that are both nutritious and appealing to picky eaters can feel like a quest in itself. You need options that provide sustained energy, are easy to carry, mess-free, and most importantly, delicious enough to motivate them up that last hill. Forget the sugary junk food that leads to a quick crash; we’re talking about smart, wholesome choices that keep the adventure going.
We’ve rounded up 7 fantastic options that fit the bill perfectly, ensuring your next family hike is full of smiles and boundless energy. These carefully selected items are designed to be the best hiking snacks for kids, balancing taste, convenience, and essential nutrients.
The 7 Best Hiking Snacks for Kids
1. The New Primal Snack Mates Chicken & Maple Sticks
These chicken and maple sticks are a game-changer for parents looking for a protein-packed, mess-free snack. Crafted with all-natural chicken and a hint of sweet maple, they hit that perfect savory-sweet note that kids adore. Individually wrapped, these mini meat sticks are incredibly convenient to tuck into any backpack or fanny pack, providing a quick energy boost without any fuss. They stand out as a fantastic alternative to traditional jerky, offering a softer, kid-friendly texture.
- Key Features:
- All-natural chicken sticks with maple flavor.
- 15 individually wrapped mini sticks per pack.
- 7g protein and only 50 calories per serving.
- Top 9 allergen-friendly, gluten-free, nut-free, paleo, and lunchbox friendly.
- Made with poultry raised without added hormones or antibiotics.
- Pros:
- High protein content for sustained energy.
- Very convenient and mess-free for on-the-go snacking.
- Excellent choice for kids with common allergies.
- Low sugar and low carb, making it a healthier option.
- Cons:
- Meat stick texture might not appeal to all children.
- Maple flavor could be too subtle or too sweet for some palates.
- User Impressions: Parents frequently praise these sticks for their convenience and the significant protein punch they deliver, making them a go-to for active kids. Many appreciate that they’re free from common allergens, simplifying snack time worries.
- See it on Amazon here
2. That’s it. Variety Pack 100% Natural Real Fruit Bar
Sometimes, simplicity is key, and That’s it. Fruit Bars embody just that. Made with only two real fruit ingredients – literally just fruit – these bars are a pure, wholesome way to get essential vitamins and fiber into your child. The variety pack ensures there’s a flavor for every mood, from apple to blueberry. They’re deliciously chewy and provide the equivalent of two fruit servings, making them an excellent choice for a healthy, portable snack that kids genuinely enjoy.
- Key Features:
- 12 bars variety pack with only 2 real fruit ingredients per bar.
- No preservatives, added sugar, concentrates, or purees.
- Each bar contains 100 calories, vitamins A & C, and 3g fiber.
- Remarkable 2-year shelf life, reducing food waste.
- Free from the top 12 allergens, nut-free, fat-free, non-GMO, gluten-free, plant-based, Paleo, and Kosher.
- Pros:
- Extremely clean ingredient list; 100% natural fruit.
- Highly allergy-friendly, suitable for many dietary restrictions.
- Long shelf life makes them perfect for stocking up.
- Convenient source of fiber and essential vitamins.
- Cons:
- Chewy texture might not be preferred by all younger children.
- Some kids might find them less exciting than other snack options.
- User Impressions: Customers rave about the pure fruit goodness and the convenience of these bars. They are particularly popular among parents looking for genuinely healthy and allergy-safe options for their children’s lunchboxes and outdoor activities.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Cooper Street Granola Bakes (36 Count) – Soft and Chewy Variety Pack
When you need a snack that offers both flavor variety and wholesome ingredients, Cooper Street Granola Bakes deliver. This generous 36-count variety pack features delicious options like Blueberry Pomegranate, Chocolate Cherry, and Oatmeal Cranberry. These soft and chewy bars are packed with whole rolled oats, buckwheat, chia, and flax seeds, providing sustained energy for those longer hikes. At just 110 calories per bar, they’re a guilt-free way to keep little stomachs full and happy.
- Key Features:
- 36-count variety pack including Blueberry Pomegranate, Chocolate Cherry, and Oatmeal Cranberry.
- Made with whole rolled oats, buckwheat, chia, and flax seeds.
- Soft and chewy texture, loved by kids.
- Only 110 calories per bar.
- Individually wrapped for ultimate convenience.
- Pros:
- Offers great flavor variety to satisfy different preferences.
- Wholesome ingredients provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Soft texture is easy for kids to eat on the go.
- Excellent for school, sports, or any active outing.
- Cons:
- While wholesome, some flavors might contain natural sugars that add up.
- Not explicitly stated as gluten-free for the entire variety pack.
- User Impressions: Many parents highlight these granola bakes as a consistent hit with their kids, praising the taste and the soft texture. The variety pack is a major plus, ensuring there’s always a flavor to keep things interesting.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Lmuwecno 5 Sets Reusable Snack Containers with Lids
While not a snack itself, these reusable snack containers are an absolute must-have for packing the best hiking snacks for kids. Their clever dual-compartment design means you can pack a main snack like crackers or fruit alongside a dip or nuts without anything getting soggy. The secure, leak-resistant snap-lock lids are a lifesaver for preventing messy spills in backpacks. Made from BPA-free plastic, they’re durable enough for countless adventures and stack neatly for easy storage.
- Key Features:
- 5 sets of 2-section snack containers (5.51″x3.35″).
- Keeps snacks separated and fresh (e.g., chips with dip, fruit with yogurt).
- Secure, leak-resistant snap-lock lids.
- Compact 0.98″ height fits easily into lunchboxes and small bags.
- BPA-free, freezer-to-microwave safe, durable for 100+ reuses.
- Pros:
- Prevents snacks from getting crushed or mixed, maintaining freshness.
- Leak-proof design is essential for liquid or semi-liquid snacks.
- Durable and reusable, an eco-friendly alternative to plastic bags.
- Versatile for various snack combinations.
- Cons:
- Adds an item to carry and clean compared to disposable bags.
- Might be slightly bulky for ultra-light packing (though quite compact for its function).
- User Impressions: Users love these containers for their practicality and durability. They frequently mention how useful the dual compartments are for packing diverse snacks and appreciate the secure lids that truly prevent leaks, making them perfect for active kids.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Homestead Honey Native Sticks 100 Count – Pure Wildflower Honey
For a quick, natural energy boost, these Homestead Honey Native Sticks are a brilliant choice. Each stick contains pure wildflower honey, offering a burst of natural sweetness and quick energy in a perfectly portioned, mess-free package. Kids love the novelty of squeezing out the honey, and parents appreciate that it’s a wholesome, unprocessed option with no additives. They’re super portable and ideal for a mid-hike pick-me-up when energy levels start to dip.
- Key Features:
- 100 individually sealed wildflower honey sticks.
- Portable and mess-free design.
- Versatile as a direct snack or sweetener for drinks/oatmeal.
- Made from raw wildflower honey with no additives or preservatives.
- Only 15 calories per stick.
- Pros:
- Provides quick, natural energy for tired little legs.
- Extremely portable and virtually mess-free.
- A wholesome, single-ingredient snack.
- Kids find them fun and easy to consume.
- Cons:
- Primarily sugar (even if natural), so best used as an energy booster rather than a main snack.
- Can be sticky if opened carelessly by young children.
- User Impressions: These honey sticks are a huge hit with families for their convenience and the instant energy they provide. Customers love that they’re a natural, easy-to-pack alternative to sugary candies, perfect for outdoor activities.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Cooper Street Oatmeal Cranberry Granola Bakes (12 pack)
Focusing on a single, popular flavor, the Cooper Street Oatmeal Cranberry Granola Bakes offer the same wholesome goodness in a convenient 12-pack. These soft-baked bars are a fantastic option for families seeking allergen-friendly snacks, as they are completely free from peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, soy, and artificial ingredients. The combination of whole oats and real cranberries provides a delicious chew and sustained energy, making them ideal for kids with sensitive diets or those attending schools with strict allergen policies.
- Key Features:
- 12-pack of chewy oatmeal cranberry granola bars.
- Made with whole oats, real cranberries, chia, flax, and buckwheat.
- Allergen-friendly: Free from peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, soy, and artificial ingredients.
- 110 calories per individually wrapped bar.
- Soft-baked texture.
- Pros:
- Exceptional for children with common allergies, safe for many environments.
- Provides sustained energy from wholesome grains and seeds.
- Delicious and kid-approved flavor.
- Conveniently individually wrapped for grab-and-go.
- Cons:
- The specific flavor might not be a universal favorite compared to a variety pack.
- Still contains oats, so not suitable for strict gluten-free diets unless certified.
- User Impressions: This particular pack is highly valued by parents of children with allergies, as it provides a safe, tasty, and nutritious snack option. The soft texture and real cranberry bursts are frequently highlighted as favorites.
- See it on Amazon here
7. BEAR Real Fruit Snack Minis, Raspberry/Blueberry
These BEAR Real Fruit Snack Minis are a delightful and healthy way to get fruit into your child’s diet on the go. Made simply from gently baked fruit, these raspberry and blueberry rolls are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, with absolutely no added sugar, concentrates, or preservatives. They’re Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten Free, Kosher, Vegan, and Paleo-friendly, making them an incredibly versatile option for nearly any dietary need. The mini packs are perfect for lunchboxes or a quick trailside treat.
- Key Features:
- Contains 18 mini packs of Raspberry/Blueberry fruit snacks.
- Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten Free, Kosher, Vegan, and Paleo.
- Gently baked to preserve vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Completely free from concentrates, added sugar, preservatives, and gumming agents.
- Pros:
- Pure fruit with a very clean ingredient list.
- Suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions.
- Good source of fiber and natural nutrients.
- Perfect portion size for little hands and quick energy.
- Cons:
- Portion sizes might be small for older, very active kids requiring more substantial fuel.
- The fruit roll texture might be too chewy for very young toddlers.
- User Impressions: Parents consistently praise BEAR Fruit Minis for their pure ingredients and the fact that kids genuinely love them. They’re a top choice for a healthy, guilt-free fruit snack that’s easy to pack and consume anywhere.
- See it on Amazon here
Conclusion
Picking the best hiking snacks for kids doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little planning and the right choices, you can ensure your little adventurers stay fueled, happy, and ready for whatever the trail throws their way. From protein-rich meat sticks to wholesome fruit bars and clever containers, this list offers a variety of fantastic options to keep your family’s outdoor excursions enjoyable and energized. So, pack up those delicious treats, lace up your boots, and get ready for some unforgettable family memories!
FAQ Section
Q1: What makes a good hiking snack for kids?
A1: The best hiking snacks for kids are typically a good mix of carbohydrates for quick energy, protein for sustained energy, and healthy fats. They should also be easy to eat on the go, mess-free, and appealing to children’s taste buds. Think non-perishable, individually wrapped items that don’t require refrigeration.
Q2: How much snack should I pack for a child’s hike?
A2: It depends on the length and intensity of the hike, as well as your child’s age and appetite. A good rule of thumb is to pack one small snack for every hour of hiking, plus a little extra just in case. It’s always better to have too much than too little!
Q3: Are sugary snacks okay for hiking, or should I avoid them completely?
A3: While highly processed sugary snacks should generally be limited, natural sugars (like those found in fruit or honey) can provide a quick, necessary energy boost during a demanding hike. The key is balance: pair quick-energy snacks with protein and fiber to prevent a sugar crash and promote sustained energy.
Q4: What about hydration? Is water enough, or should I pack other drinks?
A4: Water is always the best choice for hydration. For longer or more strenuous hikes, especially on hot days, consider bringing an electrolyte drink or adding an electrolyte packet to water to replenish lost salts. Encourage frequent sips, not just when they say they’re thirsty.
Q5: How can I prevent snacks from getting crushed or messy in a backpack?
A5: Using sturdy, reusable containers (like the Lmuwecno ones reviewed above) is a great solution. For softer items, pack them in harder containers or in areas of the backpack where they won’t get squished. Individually wrapped snacks also help contain crumbs and stickiness.
Q6: My child is a picky eater. How can I ensure they’ll eat the hiking snacks I pack?
A6: Involve them in the snack selection process! Offer a few healthy, kid-friendly options and let them pick their favorites. You can also “test” new snacks at home before a hike to see what they like. Familiar and comforting foods can also be motivating.
Q7: Should I consider allergies when packing snacks, even if my child doesn’t have any?
A7: Absolutely! If your child is hiking with friends or in a group, it’s vital to be aware of other children’s allergies. Packing allergen-friendly options (like many of the nut-free or gluten-free snacks reviewed) helps ensure safety for everyone and avoids cross-contamination risks.