Eating Healthy Snacks at Texas Gas Stations
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Finding healthy eating options on many empty stretches of road can seem nearly impossible, and sometimes you’ll have to make do with what’s available: gas stations. They might not be at the top of the list when we think of good food, but if you know what to look for, they can supply us with exactly what we need until we can get something more substantial.
Maintaining a healthy diet while traveling might be especially difficult. You need to refuel, but the food in your camping cooler will not suffice. It’s tempting to pull into the fast food drive-thru, but you don’t want to squander money or consume empty calories.
Lucky for many drivers, healthy food options are on the rise at many gas station chains, particularly the likes of Buc-ee’s, Valero, and other chains with in-store food bars, and more and more new gas stations, like the updated 7-Elevens, are adding end cap coolers–if not full aisles–of sandwiches, protein bars, and shakes, fruit and cheese plates, crudités and other fresh snacks and meals.
“Is it feasible to get nutritious food at a gas station?” you may wonder. However, many gas station companies have stepped up their game in terms of providing healthy food and clean restrooms. The majority of these goodies are available at any convenience store chain!
Even at the most pared-down gas stations, you can probably find hidden healthy snack options to hold you over until your next pit stop. Steer clear of the shriveled rotisserie mystery meats and instead look for our five favorite healthy gas station snacks:
Fresh Fruit
Even some of the smallest gas stations may surprise you with fruit. On a few occasions, I have been shocked to find a basket of apples, bananas, pears, and oranges near the register or on a random endcap. Just one banana will provide you with an excellent source of Vitamin B6 and fiber. Just remember to thoroughly wash your hands and skinned fruits before eating, and don’t peel while driving.
Look for pre-cut fruit cups, such as melon, pineapple, or mixed fruit. These are perfect for a quick and easy snack that you can eat on the go. You can also find individual portions of carrots, celery, and cherry tomatoes, which are great for dipping into hummus or ranch dressing.
Another option is to grab a whole piece of fruit, such as an apple, banana, or orange. These are easy to eat and don’t require any prep work. Plus, they’re packed with fiber and vitamins that will help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Nuts and Seeds
I look for single-serving pouches, which nearly all gas stations now offer. Cashews, peanuts, pistachios, almonds, and many others are all good options. Remove the top of the wrapper and they’re easy to eat while driving. Try to go for the dry roasted and unflavored options instead of the ones with added salt and powdered flavoring. One serving of almonds is a great way to get Vitamin E, healthy fats, and protein.
Almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds are all great options to choose from. These nuts and seeds are also rich in essential nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and vitamin E, which are important for maintaining good health.
If you’re looking for a little bit of sweetness, try packing some trail mix which is a combination of mixed nuts and dried fruits. Just make sure to choose a mix that’s low in sugar and doesn’t have any added oils or artificial flavors.
Remember, portion control is key when it comes to snacking on nuts and seeds. A handful or two should be enough to keep you going without overindulging in calories. So, next time you hit the road, grab a bag of nuts and seeds and enjoy the drive with a healthy snack.
Protein Shakes
Nearly everyone could use a good protein shake throughout the day. Muscle Milk, Pure Protein, and OhYeah! are three of the most common brands you will find, all of which are solid options and come in a variety of flavors. Alexa’s favorite, if you can find it, is Bolthouse Farm’s Protein PLUS Blended Coffee, and if you really want to ramp up the protein, look for Monster Milk by Cytosport which boasts 45g of protein in one bottle.
Protein bars
Protein bars are an incredibly popular snack option for those who want to stay full and energized on the go. These bars are packed with protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients that can help you feel full for longer periods of time.
Protein bars come in a variety of flavors, from chocolate and peanut butter to fruity options. Some brands even offer bars that are vegan, gluten-free, and low in sugar, making them a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions.
One of the best things about protein bars is that they are incredibly convenient. You can easily purchase them at gas stations, convenience stores, or even online, and they can be stored in your car or bag for easy access on your road trip.
When choosing a protein bar, make sure to check the nutrition label and ingredients list. Some bars may be high in sugar or contain artificial ingredients, so it’s important to choose a bar that fits your dietary needs and preferences.
Beef Jerky
There are a lot of brands and most will be a little high in sodium, but jerky is high in protein, low in carbs, and delicious. My personal favorites are the fresh Beef Jerky from Buc-ee’s and varieties by Jack Links, and I can almost always find them at every gas station.
Dried Veggies
It has become a lot more common to see dried vegetables and veggie chips almost everywhere that carry food. This is great for vegetarians as well as those who don’t eat enough vegetables on a regular basis. If you want the crunch of a chip, I would recommend Exotic Vegetable Chips from Terra. They are made from, as you can probably guess, sweet potatoes and beets. Buyer beware: They’re so good they may replace your Lay’s at home!
Trail mix
Trail mix is a classic gas station snack option that is both healthy and customizable. It’s a great way to fuel up on the go without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Most gas stations carry pre-packaged trail mix options, but you can also create your own mix by selecting your favorite nuts, dried fruits, and even chocolate chips or M&M’s for a sweet kick.This way, you can tailor your trail mix to your personal preferences and dietary needs.
Trail mix is a great source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber which can help keep you full and satisfied on long drives. Nuts like almonds, cashews, and walnuts are rich in healthy fats and protein, while dried fruits like raisins and apricots provide natural sweetness and fiber. Dark chocolate chips or M&M’s can also be added for a touch of sweetness and a boost of energy.
Lowest-calorie gas station snacks
When you need a quick and simple snack, it’s easy to reach for an unhealthy packet of chips and soda. Make a better choice the next time you’re at the gas station by choosing a snack that’s low in calories, sugar, and nutritional value. It will help improve your mood, feel fantastic, and give you more energy to get through the day.
- Orange – 45 calories
- Salad (w/cheese, tomato, and carrots) – 78 calories
- Boiled Egg – 78 calories
- String cheese stick – 80 calories
- Unsalted Jerky – 82 calories (for 20-gram piece)
- Apple – 95 calories
- Greek Yogurt – 100 calories
- Banana – 105 calories
- Popcorn – 106 calories (one ounce)
- Granola Bar – 132 calories (in 28 grams)
- Almonds – 170 Calories (for one ounce)
Gas station snacks are often viewed as unhealthy, but they don’t have to be. Many gas stations now offer a variety of healthy and low-calorie options that can make for the perfect grab-and-go snack. Whether you’re looking for something sweet or savory, it is possible to find a gas station snack with fewer calories than you think. Here are some of the lowest-calorie snacks available at many gas stations.
Opt for nuts like almonds and pistachios, which are high in protein and fiber and can help keep you full longer. Dried fruit like apricots or cranberries also makes great healthy snacks, as does popcorn – just be sure to skip the buttery varieties! If you’re craving something sweet, try yogurt parfaits or fresh fruits like apples or bananas.
Homemade options
If you really want to be in control of what you’re eating on your road trip, consider preparing your snacks ahead of time. This way, you can choose your ingredients, portion sizes, and avoid any unwanted additives or preservatives.
Some great options for homemade snacks include trail mix, energy balls, homemade granola bars, and veggie cups with hummus. You can also make your own fruit cups, sandwiches, and wraps.
If you’re someone who loves to bake, consider making your own muffins, protein bars, or even healthy cookies. There are countless recipes available online that cater to various dietary needs and preferences.
Preparing your snacks ahead of time not only ensures that you have healthy options on hand, but it can also save you money in the long run. Gas station snacks can be pricey, and making your own snacks is often much more cost-effective. So, take some time to plan and prepare your snacks before hitting the road to ensure that you’re fueled up with healthy options for your journey.
Final Word
Gas station snacks often get a bad rap for being full of sugar and lacking in nutritional value. However, with more awareness of healthy eating and nutrition, gas stations are now offering healthier snacks that provide the same convenient accessibility. Whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up or a snack to hold you over until your next meal, there are now many options available at gas stations that won’t sacrifice your health.
After nearly two years of camping every weekend, I’ve compiled this list of nutritious gas station snacks to save both my waistline and my pocketbook.
When I was younger, road trips meant eating junk food. It was one of the few times my parents allowed us kids to choose candy and chips, perhaps to keep us entertained!
But, when I became a parent, I quickly realized I needed to rethink my road trip munchies. Otherwise, I faced a lot of empty calories, weight gain, and financial loss (junk food is pricey!)
So, I hope you’ve enjoyed my list of the healthiest foods available at almost any gas station company. Most of them will also be less expensive than that outrageously expensive bag of chips or candy you want to buy.