When heading out on the trail, having the right hiking snacks can make all the difference in your energy levels, endurance, and overall experience. The best hiking snacks are ones that are both healthy and convenient—foods that are easy to pack, won’t spoil in your backpack, and provide the nutrients your body needs to keep moving. Whether you’re tackling a tough incline or enjoying a leisurely walk through nature, having the right fuel can help you stay focused and energized.
It's important to choose snacks that offer a balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Options like trail mix, nut butter packets, and beef jerky are ideal because they're light weight, nutritionally dense and also delicious. This curated list of packaged snacks are a great start to planning and prepping for your next hike or outdoor adventure.
1. Protein Bars
When it comes to a quick and easy snack to fuel up on during a hike, protein bars are always a go to snack option. Not only are there so many healthy, high protein options on the market, but they are also lightweight, portable, and also tasty. We like Barebells brand because they're high in protein and taste like candy bars without the added sugar!
Shop Barebells Variety 12 Pack - $32.99
2. Beef Jerky
Of course beef jerky is going to make the list because of its high protein macro content as well as its portability and taste. Our sugar-free options are not only an excellent source of protein for those long days, but they come in a variety of delicious flavors. Plus, each small bag is lightweight and has a long shelf life, making it the perfect snack on the go.
Shop People's Choice Beef Jerky Sugar Free Line - $6.99 - $28.99
3. Trail Mix
This is an iconic hiking snack and makes the list every time for a reason! Nature's Garden Healthy Trail Mix Snack Packs are the perfect hiking snack because they come individually packaged and have the perfect ratio of protein, fat, and carbs. Throw a few in your pack and call it a day!
Shop Nature's Garden Healthy Trail Mix Snack Packs - $22.08
4. Pistachios
These nut packets make an excellent hiking snack because they're packed with plant-based protein and healthy fats, which will help sustain those energy levels on the trail. These pistachios have no shell making them mess-free and easy to eat on the go. They also come in a variety pack of flavors so you won't get bored.
Shop Wonderful Pistachios No Shells Variety Pack of 9 - $7.78
5. Dried Fruit
Bare Crunchy Fruit Chips offer the natural sweetness of fruit in a light, crisp, portable, and mess-free form. They're made with simple ingredients and no additional sugar which makes them a healthy alternative to typical sugary snacks.
Shop Bare Baked Crunchy Fruit Variety Pack of 16 - $15.09
6. Energy Bar
If you're looking for a clean energy boost without relying on sugary drinks or coffee, Quantum Energy Squares are the ideal hiking snack. Each square combines plant-based protein, healthy fats, and a caffeine kick from organic green coffee making it a great fuel source to power your adventures.
Shop Quantum Energy Bar 8 Pack - $19.95
7. Beef Sticks
We love a good beef stick. Especially ones that have honest ingredients and excellent macros. Our mini beef stick collection offers protein packed snacks without the addition of preservatives or artificial ingredients. They're a clean source of protein that will keep you fueled and energized on those long hikes. Plus they come in an assortment of flavors that will keep you wanting more!
Shop People's Choice Beef Jerky Mini Beef Sticks - $6.99
8. Fruit Bar
That’s It Fruit Bars are a smart and simple hiking snack made from just two ingredients: real fruit—nothing else. With no added sugar, preservatives, or fillers, these bars are naturally sweet, nutrient-dense, and perfect for clean eating on the go. Their small, lightweight packaging makes them incredibly convenient to toss into any daypack or pocket.
That's it Variety Fruit Bar 12 Pack - $22.99
9. Energy Chews
Designed for endurance, these chews provide a quick source of easily digestible carbohydrates to keep your energy levels steady during strenuous climbs or long treks. They’re flavored with real fruit and have no artificial colors or preservatives, making them a healthier alternative to traditional gummies.
Skratch Labs Energy Chews 10 Pack - $25.60
10. Dry Roasted Edamame Snacks
The Only Bean Crunchy Roasted Edamame Snacks are a protein-packed powerhouse, making them a perfect choice for hiking. With 13g of plant-based protein per serving, these roasted edamame snacks help support muscle recovery and sustained energy during long treks.
Shop The Only Bean Crunchy Dry Roasted Edamame Snack 10 Pack - $14.51
11. Caffeinated Chocolate Bites
These bites are a fun and functional hiking snack for those who want a little extra pep in their step. Each bite contains as much caffeine as half a cup of coffee, giving you a tasty energy boost without the need to carry a thermos or energy drink.
AWAKE Caffeinated Chocolate Bites Variety 50 Pack - $36.99
12. Peanut Butter Squeeze Pack
Each pack delivers a satisfying dose of healthy fats, protein, and just a hint of natural sweetness—perfect for sustaining energy during long treks or quick trail breaks. The single-serve squeeze format makes them easy to eat on the go with no mess or utensils required.
Shop Justin's Honey Peanut Butter Squeeze 10 Pack - $9.99
13. Fruit Smoothie Pouch
These fruit smoothie pouches are a refreshing and nutrient-packed hiking snack that’s perfect for recharging on the go. These pouches combine wholesome superfoods like fruits, vegetables, and seeds in a convenient, easy-to-squeeze package—no refrigeration needed. Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, they offer a natural energy boost without any added sugars or artificial ingredients.
Shop Noka Superfood Fruit Smoothie Pouch Variety Pack - $26.94
14. Whole Food Protein Balls
Packed with plant-based protein and healthy fats, these bars provide long-lasting energy to keep you fueled on the trail. Made with whole food ingredients like nuts, dates, and pea protein, they’re free from gluten, dairy, and added sugars, making them a wholesome option for a variety of diets.
Shop simplyFUEL Whole Food Protein Balls - $17.99
15. Vegan Protein Bar
These are a delicious and nutritious hiking snack that offers a clean source of protein without the added sugars or sugar alcohols found in many other bars. With 20 grams of protein per bar, they help keep muscles fueled and recovery on point during and after long hikes.
Shop TRUBAR Vegan Protein Bar 12 Count - $29.69
From protein-packed roasted edamame and nutrient-rich superfood pouches to quick energy boosts like caffeinated chocolate bites and almond butter squeeze packs, these snacks are perfect for any trail. Whether you need long-lasting energy, a sweet treat, or a clean protein source, these portable options make it easy to stay fueled and satisfied while exploring the great outdoors.
Check out this list of dehydrated backpacking meals for your next outdoor adventure.
