When you are traveling, there are often times when you need to visit local convenience stores. This might be due to going on a road trip, taking a weekend trip where your hotel doesn’t have a restaurant, or even when traveling by bus and taking stops for a quick bite to eat.
Here are some of the healthier options available at convenience stores and gas stations.
Jerky
Jerky does contain a lot of sodium, but it is a good option when you need a snack with a lot of protein and less calories than chips or candy. Jerky is easy to eat while on the road, even while driving.
It doesn’t make a lot of mess or leave crumbs all over your car. It is also good for energy if you are driving on a big road trip. You can usually find turkey jerky, which is a little healthier than beef or steak jerky.
Granola or Protein Bars
For snacks, you should be able to find granola bars or protein bars that fit within your dietary restrictions. Most convenience stores offer a collection of bars, from low-carb protein bars, to cereal bars made with whole-grain cereal. You might find organic granola bars or those made with nuts and dried fruit. These are easy, convenient, and tasty, not to mention budget-friendly.
Fresh Fruit
It is common to have at least a limited selection of fresh fruit at gas station store and convenience stores. Even if all you find is a basket of ripe bananas at the register, it sure beats some of the other snack options! Plus, these fruits will always be non-perishable, so you can keep them in your car and enjoy them at leisure, without worrying about having a cooler ready.
Baked Chips
When you don’t have any option but to select chips, go with the baked kind. Most brands will have a baked version, offering a little less fat and calories. Pirate’s Booty is a good option, as it contains baked puffs that don’t have a lot of preservatives.
Nuts and Seeds
You can’t go wrong by picking up a package of nuts or seeds at the convenience store while getting gas or making a pit stop. These are usually at every convenience store or gas station, offering bags of almonds, pistachios, pecans, or assorted nuts. Sunflower seeds are often an option as well, which is good if you’re the passenger. Just don’t try to crack the seeds while you’re driving!
When all else fails, see if they have prepared food for a quick lunch, such as a sandwich with lean protein and veggies to fill up before your next stop. These foods are easy and cheap, and provide healthier options than driving through Burger King.
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