Spring Break is in full swing on college campuses across the country. For many classy co-eds, this means travelling. Whether by train, plane, or automobile; to places exotic or back to your hometown; you will probably get hungry. After working for weeks to get swimsuit-ready for your Spring Break trip, don’t let getting the munchies at a gas station derail healthy eating. Here are some of College Lifestyle’s favorite snacks for traveling.

Whole-grain cereal

Many cereals that tout the “Whole Grains” stamp of approval are available in single-serving cups for your consuming pleasure. Look for brands that have at least 4 grams of fiber per cup, like classic Cheerios.

Energy bars

Often, energy bars are just a fancy way of saying “candy bars”. Be a label-reading maven and look for a bar that has at least 5 grams of fiber and 7 grams of protein while keeping a eye out for the sugar content. Kellogg’s Special K Protein, Kashi Go Lean, and Clif Bars all make excellent choices with a variety of delicious flavor options.

Trail mix

Preferably made by you! Pistachios, almonds, walnuts, and peanuts make a great source of healthy fats and protein. Throw in some dried fruit such as Craisins or dried apricots and maybe a few dark chocolate chips to sweeten the deal. Just make sure to pay attention to portion size or you may be in for more than you bargained for.

Fresh fruit

Many places are now making fresh fruit available, even if it is just the ever popular apple or banana. If you’re lucky, you may run across fresh fruit cups, such as those produced by Del Monte. Fruit provides a hefty dose of vitamin C to help you battle those nasty bugs that always seem to go around when travelling. No one wants to have a cold while sitting on a sunny beach!

————————————————————

If you have the time and ability to plan ahead and bring a cooler along, for instance if you are taking a road trip or driving to your destination, then that’s even better!

Pack your cooler full of Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, baby carrots, and fresh fruit. Drink plenty of water and try adding a packet of Crystal Light if you crave a little flavor. I like to make my own protein bars whenever I’m away from home and need a healthy snack. Here is my go-to recipe:

Pumpkin Protein Bars

1/2 C Xylitol Brown Sugar Blend (Ideal)
1/2 C No Sugar Added applesauce
1 T ground cinnamon
1 t baking powder
1 t baking soda
1/2 t salt
2 t vanilla extract
4 large egg whites (3/4 c liquid egg whites)
1 – 15 oz. can of raw pumpkin
2 C oat flour
2 scoops vanilla whey protein
1/2 c almond milk

Preheat oven to 350deg F. Spray a 9″ x 13″ dish with non-stick spray. Combine first 11 ingredients (through pumpkin) and mix well. Add the final 3 ingredients, and mix until incorporated.
Spread batter into dish and bake for 30 minutes.

Have a safe and successful Spring Break, from College Lifestyles to you! Prepare to come back and finish the semester in style.

—————————————————————————————–

Ellen Ratliff is a Senior Health Writer at College Lifestyles ™. She is a junior at Michigan State University, majoring in Dietetics with a specialization in Health Promotions. For Spring Break 2012, she will be staying in town, relaxing with family and friends.