A display of sliced beef jerky.

15 Delicious and Healthy Portable Snacks Perfect for On the Go

Written by: Mecene Research Team

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Published

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Time to read 7 min

Healthy portable snacks are essential for staying fueled and energized throughout busy days. The right portable snacks satisfy hunger and provide key nutrients to support your overall well-being. Balancing nutrition with flavor, these healthy snacks are perfect for anyone looking to stay on track with their goals while enjoying something delicious and convenient.


In this list, you'll find a variety of options packed with health benefits—from high-protein snacks to tasty treats low in added sugar—making them ideal for work, travel, or whenever life gets hectic.

Bunch of healthy and yummy portable snacks.

15 Healthy Portable Snacks Perfect for On the Go

Finding healthy portable snacks that are both delicious and convenient can make your day smoother and more satisfying. Here are 15 options packed with nutrition and flavor, perfect for fueling your busy lifestyle.

1. Beef Jerky: A Protein Powerhouse

Beef jerky is a high-protein snack that typically doesn’t require refrigeration, though some minimally processed varieties may vary, making it a go-to for portable snacks. Look for options made from grass-fed beef or those labeled low-sodium to minimize added sugar and saturated fat while still packing a punch of high-quality protein. These choices provide lasting energy and are perfect for keeping hunger at bay while on the move.

Beef jerky slices on a wooden tray with herbs.

"Healthy portable snacks are both delicious and convenient and can make your day smoother and more satisfying.”

2. Trail Mix with Nuts, Seeds, and Dried Fruit

Trail mix offers a customizable way to enjoy a balanced snack loaded with healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Combine nuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and dried fruit for a satisfying and nutritious mix. Creating a homemade version allows you to control the ingredients, avoiding artificial sweeteners and extra added sugar while crafting a delicious combination tailored to your tastes.

3. Greek Yogurt with Berries

Greek yogurt paired with berries provides high-quality protein and vitamin C, which are essential for overall nutrition. It is a great snack that’s as tasty as it is nutritious. This combo delivers high-quality protein and vitamin C to support your mental health and energy levels. Keep it cool with an ice pack if you’re on the go.


Benefits of Greek Yogurt:


Greek yogurt with berries.

4. Veggies and Hummus

Pre-cut veggies like baby carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers paired with creamy hummus make an excellent snack for those seeking something crunchy and nutritious. This combination is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals while delivering a satisfying added crunch. It’s also incredibly convenient to pack in a plastic bag or small container, making it perfect for snacking on the go.

5. Apple Slices with Almond Butter

Apple slices paired with almond butter create a healthy, portable snack that’s both filling and flavorful. Apples offer natural sweetness, fiber, and vitamin C, while almond butter provides healthy fats and a boost of protein. This pairing is easy to prepare and ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth without relying on artificial sweeteners or added sugar.

Apple slices with almond butter on a white plate.

6. Hard-Boiled Eggs

Hard-boiled eggs are a high-protein snack that’s simple to prepare in batches, making them a convenient choice for busy days. These excellent snacks are packed with high-quality protein and essential nutrients, keeping you full and energized. They're portable, easy to pack, and great for a quick, no-mess option.

7. Protein Bars

Protein bars are a convenient snack option, but selecting the right ones is essential for staying healthy. Look for bars made with clean ingredients and minimal added sugar to maximize health benefits.


Tips for Choosing Protein Bars:


  • Opt for bars with high protein and fiber to stay full longer

  • Avoid those with artificial sweeteners or excessive added sugar

  • Choose brands that highlight whole foods like chia seeds and nuts

  • Consider making homemade bars with ingredients like peanut butter, maple syrup, and oats

Different types of protein bars.

8. Roasted Chickpeas

Roasted chickpeas are a versatile and crunchy snack packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. They can be seasoned with spices like garlic powder or cinnamon to match your taste preferences, offering an ideal alternative to chips. They are easy to prepare in an air fryer and store well in snack bags, making them perfect for grabbing on the go.

9. Cottage Cheese Cups with Pineapple

Single-serving cottage cheese cups paired with pineapple chunks make a sweet, protein-packed snack that’s as nutritious as it is convenient. Cottage cheese is rich in high-quality protein, while pineapple adds natural sweetness and a dose of vitamin C. Opt for low-fat varieties to keep calories in check without sacrificing flavor. This combination is easy to pack and enjoy, making it an excellent snack for busy days.

10. Canned Tuna or Salmon Packets

Canned tuna or salmon packets are portable, high-protein snacks that require no refrigeration, making them perfect for quick meals or snacks. It is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, while both options provide essential nutrients. Pair them with whole wheat crackers or whole grain bread to create a more filling and satisfying snack, all while enjoying the benefits of healthy fats and fiber.

11. Edamame Pods

Edamame pods are a plant-based protein source that’s easy to prepare and even easier to carry. Simply steam or boil them, sprinkle them with a bit of sea salt, and pack them in a small container. Rich in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, edamame is also low in calories, making it a fantastic option for mindful snacking. Their versatility and portability make them a staple for healthy eaters on the go.

Bowl of steamed edamame pods.

12. Chia Pudding with Fresh Fruit

Chia seeds are rich in fiber, protein, and ALA, a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid. Mix them with almond milk or another dairy-free alternative to create a creamy pudding that can be prepared in advance. Top your chia pudding with fresh fruit like berries or banana slices for added sweetness and health benefits. This make-ahead snack provides a satisfying and nutritious option for sustained energy.

13. Apple Chips or Dried Apple Rings

Dried apple chips are a healthy portable snack that’s both sweet and satisfying. Naturally low in calories and high in fiber, they provide a crunchy alternative to traditional chips, often with less saturated fat. Look for varieties without added sugar to keep this snack wholesome and guilt-free. Easy to pack and long-lasting, apple chips or rings are an excellent option for busy lifestyles.

14. Peanut Butter or Almond Butter Packets with Whole-Grain Crackers

Single-serve packets of peanut butter or almond butter are a convenient and mess-free way to enjoy a satisfying snack on the go. Pairing them with whole-grain crackers creates a balanced option packed with healthy fats, fiber, and carbohydrates to keep you energized. This combination is perfect for travel or work, delivering a mix of textures and flavors that’s both filling and delicious.

15. Fresh Grapes and Cheese Cubes

Fresh grapes paired with cheese cubes make a refreshing and portable sweet and savory snack. Grapes provide natural sugars and a dose of vitamin C, while cheese adds calcium and high-quality protein. Choose options like mozzarella cheese or string cheese for convenience, and enjoy a snack that satisfies cravings while delivering important nutrients for your day.

Find Your Favorite On-the-Go and Healthy Snack

With so many healthy portable snacks, staying energized and satisfied while on the go has never been easier. From protein-packed options like hard-boiled eggs and beef jerky to sweet treats like dried fruit and dark chocolate, these ideas let you mix and match to keep your snacking routine exciting.


Incorporate healthy fats, fiber, and high protein into your choices to stay fueled throughout the day. Experiment with these delicious options to find your favorite healthy snacks that fit your lifestyle and taste preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best portable snacks for a high-protein diet?

High-protein portable snacks include Greek yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, beef jerky, protein bars, and canned tuna or salmon packets.

Can I find healthy portable snacks that don’t need refrigeration?

Yes, options like nuts, dried fruits, whole-grain crackers, and certain protein bars are healthy portable snacks that don't require refrigeration.

How can I make healthy snacks more filling?

To create more satisfying snacks, combine protein sources with fiber-rich foods, such as nut butter with whole-grain crackers or yogurt with fresh fruit.

Are there healthy portable snacks that are also low in sugar?

Yes, snacks like nuts, seeds, plain Greek yogurt, and certain low-sugar protein bars are both healthy and low in sugar.

What are some budget-friendly, healthy snacks for on-the-go?

Affordable, healthy portable snacks include hard-boiled eggs, homemade trail mix, fresh fruits like apples or bananas, and whole-grain crackers with peanut butter.

REFERENCES

  1. Daley, C. A., Abbott, A., Doyle, P. S., Nader, G. A., & Larson, S. (2010). A review of fatty acid profiles and antioxidant content in grass-fed and grain-fed beef. Nutrition journal, 9, 10. https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-9-10

  2. Hill, C., Guarner, F., Reid, G., Gibson, G. R., Merenstein, D. J., Pot, B., Morelli, L., Canani, R. B., Flint, H. J., Salminen, S., Calder, P. C., & Sanders, M. E. (2014). Expert consensus document. The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics consensus statement on the scope and appropriate use of the term probiotic. Nature reviews. Gastroenterology & hepatology, 11(8), 506–514. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrgastro.2014.66

  3. Knez Hrnčič, M., Ivanovski, M., Cör, D., & Knez, Ž. (2019). Chia Seeds (Salvia hispanica L.): An Overview-Phytochemical Profile, Isolation Methods, and Application. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 25(1), 11. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25010011

  4. Mozaffarian, D., & Wu, J. H. (2011). Omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease: effects on risk factors, molecular pathways, and clinical events. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 58(20), 2047–2067. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2011.06.063

  5. Ros, E. (2010). Health Benefits of Nut Consumption. Nutrients, 2(7), 652-682. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu2070652 

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. James Pendleton

Dr. James Pendleton is a primary care physician specializing in a naturopathic approach to family medicine. He has nurtured a family practice in Seattle, directed a VIP medical center in Abu Dhabi, published several books and scientific articles, and designed innovative nutritional supplements for manufacturers worldwide.