5 healthy snacks for road trips

Taking road trips in the middle of the night or before school starts is always a fun experience and obviously, you and your friends will not embark on anything without a basket full of goodies. Unfortunately, while foods that are easily stored and bought from the convenience store are on top of your list, you wouldn't want to compromise your beach body either.

Well, there is no need to fret because here is a list of the top five healthy snacks that are guaranteed to make your drive on the road filling and fun without the extra calories.

Kale Chips

For long drives that may take you eight to ten hours, it is a real challenge to keep unprocessed foods in the trunk because it might just spoil. Homemade kale chips are not only healthy but they can also satisfy your potato chips cravings without the added fats and sodium, Shape recommends. They are just like your favorite chips except they are low in sodium and are packed with nutrients.

DIY Trail Mix

Mixing dried fruits with almonds, cashew, and Chia seed is not only satisfying your sweet, salty and crunchy cravings but it is also low in calories, saturated fats and sugars, TIME Magazine writes. Just make sure you portion it correctly, like about a handful to a cup so you maximize the 140 calories in it. Adding a few dark chocolate chips can also boost your mood while on the road.

Cherry tomatoes with summer berries

Mixing a couple of sweet and ripe tomatoes with strawberries, blackberries and blueberries in one container can be the most nutritious road trip snack you'll ever prepare, Weight Watchers shares. Not only is it packed with nutrients and vitamins, but you are sure to get your daily dose of antioxidants that can boost your immune system and aid in the prevention of cancer.

Grapes or ready-to-eat vegetable and fruit sticks

Freezing grapes before a trip can provide you with a nutritious and hydrating snack while on the road, Shape reports. It can also act as a coolant for your other snacks like yogurt and other fruits. If you think it'll just thaw in the car, why not spread a tablespoon of peanut butter in a Mason jar then stack it with celery, apple or jicama sticks for a nutritious dip and homemade snack.

Vegetable juices

Of course, you need to hydrate as well and while sodas may be the easiest beverage to bring, it contains too much sugar and may only make you thirsty. TIME Magazine recommends bringing vegetable juice, freshly made the night before. Adding a cup of orange or pineapple juice in the mixture may also give you that fantastic mocktail taste.