My favorite thing to do in the summer is pack up my beach bag, drive to Lake Michigan, and plant myself on a beach towel for the day. I bring books, magazines, and plenty of sunscreen, but what ends up being the most important are the snacks which help to keep me hydrated, full, and happy.
Packing these snacks ahead of time in a small cooler also usually helps keep me away from freshly fried corn dogs and ice cream on the beach (although we’re all human, right?!) and while these things are delicious I just feel better when I eat healthier foods. Some of my favorite things to bring along are:
- Watermelon (cut into bite size chunks)
- Fresh berries from the farmers market (raspberries, blackberries, blueberries)
- Other in-season fruits like peaches, nectarines, and cherries
- Banana Bread
- Wheat pita bread with hummus
- Salsa with wheat tortilla chips
- Veggie sticks
- Water in a reusable bottle
Now if you are feeling extra adventurous (and prepared!), you could also try packing pre-made smoothies in mugs (like this refreshing coconut lime one) or even fresh stevia lemonade. Just remember when packing that beaches often do not allow glass containers, so sealed plastic ones might be best in this case.
Now if you’re doing a full-on cookout at the beach with a grill and all, check out my guest post over at 1 Mom’s Mission to read all sorts of healthier cookout ideas. Summer adventures can be made healthier with just a little planning!
Photo By: v-jansen
This post is a part of The Healthy Home Economist’s Monday Mania
