Homemade granola bars are easy snacks to take on the go.

10 Easy, Healthy Snacks You Can Take on the Go (and Homemade Alternatives!)

Finding healthy, unrefined snacks that taste great and are easy to take on the go can feel impossible. Between paleo, vegan, gluten-free, and whole-food trends, options are popping up everywhere—but many of them are still expensive or hard to find.

The good news? You can mix store-bought staples with simple homemade creations for snacks that are portable, nutritious, and delicious. Here are 10 of my favorite easy, unrefined snacks—and some DIY versions to try at home!

1. Protein Bars

Store-Bought: RxBars, Larabars, KIND Bars
Why they work: Minimal, recognizable ingredients with protein or healthy fats for staying full.
Homemade idea: Blend dates, nuts, and a scoop of protein powder. Press into a pan, refrigerate, and cut into bars. Add cacao nibs, shredded coconut, or dried berries for variety.

2. Nut + Seed Power Snacks

Store-Bought: Blueberry Power Snacks by Nativas Naturals
Why they work: Packed with superfoods like hemp, maca, and camu camu for energy and nutrients.
Homemade idea: Mix your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruit with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Press into clusters or balls for a perfect bite-sized snack.

3. Meat or Jerky Bites

Store-Bought: Epic “Jerky” Bar Bites
Why they work: Grass-fed protein in a convenient, high-flavor package.
Homemade idea: Make your own jerky using lean beef, chicken, or turkey, marinated in herbs, coconut aminos, and spices. Slice thin and dehydrate or bake at low temperature until dry.

4. Thin Crackers

Store-Bought: Paleo Thin Crackers, Primal Thin Crackers – Organic Parmesan
Why they work: Crunchy, versatile, and perfect with cheese, spreads, or dips.
Homemade idea: Mix almond flour, flaxseed meal, and seasonings. Roll thin, bake, and enjoy. Add rosemary, garlic powder, or Parmesan for flavor.

5. Kale Chips

Store-Bought: Rhythm Kale Chips
Why they work: Crispy, nutrient-dense, and a healthy alternative to chips.
Homemade idea: Toss kale with olive oil, nutritional yeast, and seasoning. Bake at 300°F for 15–20 minutes until crisp. Try spicy paprika or garlic parmesan for variety.

6. Energy & Snack Bars

Store-Bought: Better Than Coffee Bars
Why they work: Natural caffeine, dark chocolate, and healthy ingredients provide a boost.
Homemade idea: Blend oats (or oat-free seeds), nuts, cocoa, a small amount of coffee or matcha, and dates. Press into a pan and refrigerate for a homemade energy bar.

7. Simple Nuts & Seeds

Store-Bought: Raw almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds
Why they work: Protein, healthy fats, and fiber keep you full.
Homemade idea: Roast with cinnamon, smoked paprika, or chili powder for a flavor upgrade.

8. Fruit-Based Snacks

Store-Bought: Larabar Minis, dried fruit medleys
Why they work: Natural sweetness plus fiber.
Homemade idea: Slice apples or pears, sprinkle with cinnamon, and dehydrate or bake at low temperature until chewy. Mix with a few nuts for a balanced snack.

9. Yogurt + Toppings

Store-Bought: Any packaged Greek yogurt cups or dairy-free options
Why they work: Protein, probiotics, and easy portion control.
Homemade idea: Portion Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt into small containers. Top with homemade granola (see #10) and fresh or dried berries.

10. Grain-Free Granola

Store-Bought: Grain-Free Granola with nuts, seeds, and coconut
Why they work: Crunchy, flavorful, and perfect for topping yogurt or eating on the go.
Homemade idea: Mix almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, coconut chips, and a touch of maple syrup or coconut oil. Bake at 325°F for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Quick Tips for On-the-Go Snacking:

Portion ahead: Store snacks in small containers or bags for easy grab-and-go options.
Mix & match: Combine protein, fat, and fiber for longer-lasting energy.
Rotate flavors: Keep things interesting with different seasonings, nut combinations, or dried fruits.
Prep in bulk: Make 1–2 weeks of snacks in one batch to save time and ensure healthy options are always available.

With a few homemade options and smart store-bought choices, healthy snacks can finally be simple, satisfying, and delicious. You don’t have to compromise convenience for nutrition!