If you have any travel plans for the long weekend, it’s never too soon to start thinking about snacks for the journey. Whether you’re headed across the country to start University or to Naramata to stock up on wines for the fall, you can’t be too prepared.

There’s *almost* nothing worse than a long car ride on an empty stomach, or an extended stay in an airport with only overpriced and mediocre snacks to placate you. A little bit of foresight can have you snacking like royalty on your trip, and you won’t have to make that stop at the convenience store for a last-minute something to eat! (Although, there’s no better time to binge-eat gummy bears than when you’re travelling. #TreatYoSelf!)

Photo Credit: KelownaNow

1. Water

The first must-pack of any long journey is water. This may seem obvious, but its importance is threefold: you’ll never be thirsty, you’ll save money and plastic by using your own bottle and you can refill your bottle at rest stops as you travel.

Fill up a big bottle (or two) with water and ice before you leave, and store them with the rest of your snacks as they’ll act as ice packs. You’ll also be prepared for any last minute road closures or emergencies. Infuse your water with herbs (mint, basil, or rosemary) or fruit (melon) to make it extra delicious.

2. Fruit and Veggies

Fruit and veggies are a key component to any snack mix. It’s easy to miss out on your daily recommended intake of fruit and veggies on a travel day, but packing a few smart choices ahead of time can save you from a whole day of processed foods.

Pick fruits and veggies that won’t make a mess (you may want to leave those juicy Okanagan peaches at home) and that keep well at room temperature. Grapes, apple slices, carrot sticks, celery sticks and mini cucumbers are some great choices!

Photo Credit: KelownaNow

3. Trail Mix

Trail mix is both a vintage choice and Canadian classic. Any pre-made trail mix will work just fine, but you can also make your own! Hit up your favourite grocery store’s bulk section, and get a selection of your favourite nuts, seeds, dried fruits and chocolates (if you’re feeling fancy). Your mix will satisfy your every sweet and salty craving, and will last as long as you need it to!

4. Sandwich or Wrap

If you’re on a long trip you’ll want something with sustenance, and a sandwich will never stop being the perfect option. If you’re traveling with a cooler, any sandwich or wrap will store for 4-6 hours. If you don’t have a cooler, or you have a shorter trip, a simple peanut butter and jam (or PB & honey, banana or apple) might be just the thing.

5. Guilt-free Treats

Treat yourself in a guilt-free way! Quality Greens Farm Market carries some healthy “upgrades” of fan-favourite junk foods. Sensible Portions Garden Veggie Chips are Pringles’ healthier twin, the Oskri Coconut bar is like the inside of a Bounty Bar, Rise Ginger Kombucha tastes just like ginger ale and Go Organic Fruit Chews are like an all-natural Starburst. There are tons of options to satisfy whatever craving you might have, and it'll make your journey pass that much sweeter.

Photo Credit: KelownaNow

Whatever you’re doing this weekend, it never hurts to be prepared with some yummy food and drinks. With snacks on hand, you can be energized for whatever fun activities might come your way! Enjoy the long weekend and #TreatYoSelf!

Kelowna born and raised, Keddy Pavlik of TheTreatLife has been passionate about the local food scene basically since birth. If she's not in the kitchen, you can probably find her at the farmer's market or taking pictures of food. Photo Credit: Jordana Dickson.