10 Delicious Snacks to Bring on a Kayaking or Canoeing Trip: Fuel Your Adventure

September 25, 2024 8 min read

When preparing for a kayaking or canoeing trip, selecting the right snacks is crucial to keep your energy levels up and make your journey enjoyable. You need foods that are easy to pack, won't spoil quickly, and provide the necessary nutrition for sustained physical activity.

A colorful kayak floats on calm water, surrounded by lush green trees. On the kayak, a variety of delicious snacks are neatly packed in waterproof containers, ready for a day of adventure on the water

Choosing the right snacks can significantly enhance your outdoor adventure. Convenient, nutritious, and delicious options ensure you stay fueled and focused throughout your trip. The following guide will introduce you to some of the best snack choices for your next kayaking or canoeing outing.

1) Trail Mix with Dark Chocolate and Nuts

A colorful mix of nuts, seeds, and chunks of dark chocolate spilled out of a resealable bag onto a weathered wooden surface, ready to be packed for a kayaking or canoeing trip

Trail mix is a versatile and convenient snack for your kayaking or canoeing trip. It combines various ingredients to provide a balanced mix of nutrients.

Dark chocolate adds a touch of sweetness and provides antioxidants. Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews offer healthy fats and protein.

Mix these ingredients together for a snack that’s both delicious and energizing. You can easily pack it in small, resealable bags for quick access while on the water.

Add some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries to enhance the flavor and nutrient profile. This combination ensures you stay fueled and satisfied during your outdoor adventure.

2) Granola Bars: Nature Valley Crunchy

Nature Valley granola bars scattered on a rocky shore near a kayak or canoe, with a serene river or lake in the background

When you're out on the water, having a reliable snack like Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars can make a real difference. These bars are known for their sturdy texture and ability to hold up well, even in a backpack or kayak storage compartment.

Each bar is packed with wholesome oats, ensuring you get a good dose of fiber and energy. This can help maintain your stamina throughout the day. They come in various flavors, such as Oats 'n Honey and Peanut Butter, so you can choose your favorite.

The packaging is easy to open and reseal, making it convenient for quick snacking. You don't need to worry about melting or spoilage, as they are designed to stay fresh in different conditions.

Pairing well with other snacks, these granola bars are versatile. You can eat them alone or with a piece of fruit for added nutrition. Their compact size means they won't take up much space in your gear.

Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars also provide a satisfying crunch that can satisfy your hunger between meals. They are an excellent source of simple, straightforward fuel for your outdoor adventure.

3) Dried Mango Slices: Kirkland Signature

A pile of dried mango slices spills out of a Kirkland Signature package, surrounded by a kayak and canoe on a riverbank

Dried mango slices from Kirkland Signature are a fantastic snack option for your kayaking or canoeing trip. They are easy to pack and carry, making them a convenient choice for outdoor activities.

You get a boost of natural sweetness with every bite. The mango slices are not only delicious but also rich in vitamins A and C. These vitamins can help keep your energy levels up while you're paddling.

The chewy texture of dried mango slices can satisfy your craving for something substantial. Unlike fresh fruit, dried mango won't spoil quickly, making it a practical option for longer trips.

In terms of packaging, Kirkland Signature offers these mango slices in resealable bags. This feature helps to keep your snack fresh even after opening.

With no added sugar, the natural flavor of the mango really shines through. This makes Kirkland Signature's dried mango slices a healthier choice compared to other sweet snacks.

Overall, you’ll find these mango slices to be a tasty and nutritious addition to your trip.

4) Beef Jerky: Jack Link's Original

When heading out on a kayaking or canoeing trip, Jack Link’s Original Beef Jerky is a great snack choice. It’s easy to pack, requires no refrigeration, and has a long shelf life.

Beef jerky provides a good amount of protein, which can help keep your energy levels up. This makes it ideal for extended periods of physical activity.

Jack Link's has a savory flavor that many people enjoy. The Original flavor is seasoned with a blend of spices that balances taste and nutrition effectively.

The compact packaging makes it easy to stash in your backpack or kayak. It’s also light in weight, so it won’t weigh you down.

You can eat it on the go without any preparation, and it makes for a satisfying and convenient snack.

5) Rice Cakes with Almond Butter

Rice cakes spread with almond butter arranged on a wooden cutting board with a backdrop of a serene river and lush greenery

Rice cakes with almond butter offer a tasty and nutritious snack option for your kayaking or canoeing trip.

Lightweight and easy to pack, rice cakes provide a crunchy base that's low in calories. Almond butter adds a rich, creamy texture and is an excellent source of healthy fats and protein.

This combination will give you sustained energy without making you feel weighed down. You can also add toppings like sliced bananas or a sprinkle of chia seeds for extra flavor and nutrients.

Pairing the simplicity of rice cakes with the natural goodness of almond butter makes for a quick and satisfying snack that's ideal for outdoor activities. Both ingredients are shelf-stable, making them convenient for extended trips.

6) Apple Cinnamon Energy Bars: Clif

A colorful array of apple cinnamon energy bars arranged on a rustic wooden table, with a backdrop of a serene lake and a kayak or canoe in the distance

When you're out on the water, a Clif Apple Cinnamon Energy Bar can be a great choice. These bars offer a tasty mix of apple and cinnamon flavors. They provide sustained energy that helps keep you going during your kayaking or canoeing adventure.

You'll find that these energy bars come packed with wholesome ingredients. Made with organic rolled oats, they contain a good amount of fiber and protein. This can help satisfy your hunger and give you the energy you need to paddle efficiently.

In addition, the apple cinnamon flavor is refreshing and enjoyable. It's not overly sweet, making it a pleasant snack during your trip. You’ll appreciate the balance of taste and nutrition they offer.

Clif bars are also easy to pack and carry. They come in a sturdy wrapper that can withstand a bit of rough handling. This makes them a convenient option for outdoor activities.

Furthermore, these bars are designed to be eaten on the go. You can quickly take a bite without having to stop and unpack other food items. This can be particularly useful if you don’t want to interrupt your paddling rhythm.

With Clif Apple Cinnamon Energy Bars, you get a combination of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. They’re a reliable snack that fits well into your kayaking or canoeing excursions.

7) Cheddar Rice Crisps: Quaker

A person in a kayak or canoe holding a bag of Quaker Cheddar Rice Crisps, with a scenic river or lake in the background

Cheddar Rice Crisps from Quaker are an excellent choice for a kayaking or canoeing trip. They are light, crunchy, and pack a satisfying cheesy flavor.

These crisps are conveniently portioned and won't take up much space in your bag. They are made from whole grain brown rice, which offers a healthier alternative to other traditional snacks.

Their resealable packaging helps keep the crisps fresh throughout your adventure. You can easily snack on them between paddling sessions without the worry of them becoming stale.

The cheddar flavor is rich but not overpowering, making each bite enjoyable. The combination of crunch and taste can keep your energy up as you explore waterways.

In addition to being tasty, they are also gluten-free. This makes them suitable for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone in your group can enjoy them.

Cheddar Rice Crisps are also low in fat and calories compared to other snack options, contributing to mindful snacking. They provide a guilt-free way to enjoy your outing.

Overall, Cheddar Rice Crisps by Quaker deliver convenience, taste, and nutrition in a portable package. Perfect for on-the-go enjoyment during your aquatic adventures.

8) String Cheese: Sargento

A kayak and canoe float on calm water, surrounded by lush greenery. A hand reaches for a pack of Sargento string cheese, with other snacks nearby

String cheese is a great choice for a kayaking or canoeing trip. Sargento's string cheese, in particular, offers convenience and nutrition. Each piece is individually wrapped, making it easy to pack and eat on the go.

The cheese provides a good source of protein and calcium, helping to keep your energy up during your adventure. It also doesn’t require refrigeration for a reasonable amount of time, making it suitable for short trips.

The packaging is durable and can withstand the rigors of an outdoor trip, while the portion size is perfect for a quick snack. Sargento’s string cheese is also known for its quality taste and texture, adding a bit of enjoyment to your snack time.

You can easily pair it with other snacks like nuts or fruit for a balanced mini-meal. Sargento’s string cheese is both practical and versatile, enhancing your kayaking or canoeing experience.

9) Protein Cookies: Quest Double Chocolate Chip

A stack of Quest Double Chocolate Chip protein cookies sits next to a kayak and canoe, surrounded by nature and water

When you're paddling through waterways, sustaining your energy is crucial. Quest Double Chocolate Chip Protein Cookies are an excellent choice.

These cookies offer a rich, chocolatey taste while packing in a significant protein punch. Each cookie provides 15 grams of protein, making it easy to keep your energy levels up during your trip.

One of the benefits of these protein cookies is their convenience. They come individually wrapped, making them easy to store in your kayak or backpack.

Another advantage is their nutritional profile. In addition to high protein content, they have fewer carbs compared to regular cookies. This makes them a healthier snack without sacrificing taste.

Quest Double Chocolate Chip Protein Cookies are also quite durable. They won't crumble easily, even if they get jostled around with your gear.

This snack is also appealing if you have dietary restrictions. It's gluten-free and doesn't contain added sugars, aligning well with various dietary needs.

Keep a few in your bag, and you'll have a tasty, protein-rich snack ready whenever you need it.

10) Pretzels: Snyder's of Hanover Mini

A colorful kayak on calm water, with a paddle resting on the side. A small bag of Snyder's of Hanover Mini pretzels sits on the kayak's deck, surrounded by other snacks

Pretzels are a versatile and convenient snack for your kayaking or canoeing trip. Snyder's of Hanover Mini Pretzels are a top choice due to their ideal size and satisfying crunch.

These mini pretzels come in convenient, resealable bags, perfect for easy access during your trip. Their small size makes them easy to share and prevents crumbs from becoming a mess.

The salty flavor helps replenish your sodium levels, which can be important during long paddling sessions. Pair them with some cheese or hummus for a more filling snack option.

Snyder's of Hanover is known for their consistent quality, ensuring you get a fresh taste every time. These pretzels also stay fresh for a long time, an important factor when you're out on the water.

In short, these mini pretzels are an excellent snack choice, combining convenience, taste, and practicality.

Nutritional Benefits of Kayaking and Canoeing Snacks

A picnic blanket spread with an assortment of fresh fruits, nuts, and energy bars. A water bottle and a thermos of hot tea sit nearby. The backdrop is a serene river or lake surrounded by lush greenery

Choosing the right snacks for kayaking or canoeing can significantly impact your energy levels and hydration. Selecting foods with energy-boosting ingredients and hydrating properties is crucial.

Energy-Boosting Ingredients

Snacks high in complex carbohydrates are ideal for sustained energy release. These include foods like whole grains, nuts, and fruits. For example, trail mix containing nuts, oats, and dried fruits can provide a steady stream of energy throughout your trek.

Protein-rich ingredients also play a vital role. Jerky, cheese sticks, and nut butter can help repair muscles and support endurance.

Healthy fats from foods like avocados and nuts offer sustained energy and help you feel full longer.

A useful example:

  • Trail Mix: Contains nuts (protein, healthy fats), dried fruit (simple sugars for quick energy), and seeds (fiber, minerals).

Maintaining Hydration

Hydration is crucial when you're on the water. Snacks with high water content like fruits and vegetables are excellent choices. Cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges can help keep you hydrated.

Electrolyte balance is also important. Replenish your sodium, potassium, and other electrolytes with snacks like salted nuts or sports drinks.

Coconut water is a natural option for rehydration without added sugars or artificial ingredients.

Consider the following:

  • Watermelon Slices: High water content keeps you hydrated.
  • Coconut Water: Replenishes electrolytes naturally.
  • Salted Nuts: Helps maintain sodium levels during intense paddling.

Storage and Packaging Tips

A kayak loaded with a variety of snacks, neatly packed in waterproof containers, and secured with bungee cords. The backdrop is a serene river or lake with lush greenery

Ensuring your snacks stay fresh and accessible is crucial for a smooth trip. You need to consider waterproofing and portion control to maintain the quality of your snacks.

Waterproof Containers

Keeping your snacks dry while kayaking or canoeing is essential. Waterproof containers protect your food from water, even if your gear gets wet. Look for containers with airtight seals and durable materials.

Consider using zip-top bags for smaller items. They are lightweight and easy to pack. For larger quantities, plastic storage containers with locking lids work well.

Label your containers. This makes it easier to find what you need without opening each one. Also, storing snacks in containers keeps them organized and prevents crushing.

Portion Control

Proper portion control helps you manage your food supply efficiently. Pre-measuring your snacks before your trip ensures you have enough food without overpacking.

Use small reusable bags or snack-sized containers. They help divide portions and make snacking convenient. Packing in individual portions reduces waste and avoids the hassle of resealing larger bags.

Calculate the number of portions based on the length of your trip and the number of people. This helps prevent running out of snacks mid-trip. Plus, it ensures each participant gets an equal share.