10 Snack Ideas for Cyclists on the Go (NO BARS!)

Typical snack ideas for cyclists are generally limited to bars (a multitude of different bars!), gels, and chews. I have nothing against any of these snacks and supplements, and actually go through a variety of different bars each week. But sometimes I’m hankering for something different. As the weather warms and I’m spend more time on the bike, I’ve been researching snack ideas for cyclists and I’ve come up with some new ones!

Snack Ideas for Cyclists on the Go

1. Nuts – Nuts, from peanuts and walnuts to pistachios and pecans, are loaded with protein, vitamins, and minerals. They are easy to carry in a pre-packaged portion or baggy, and are not affected by heat. Definitely a go-to snack idea for cyclists.
2. Bananas – Bananas taste great, are loaded in potassium and “good” carbs, and come in their own natural wrapper. The downside- they can get squished easily so be careful where you stash them.
3. Dried Fruits – If you are a fan of dried fruits like raisins, apricots, cherries, and cranberries, they are a great addition to your ride. They are easy to carry, compact, and are bursting with vitamins and minerals. They are relatively high in calories, so a handful goes a long way towards fueling your ride.
4. Sandwiches – The ol’ PB&J is a great way to keep you going on a long ride. Peanut butter is loaded with healthy fat, and the sugar in the jelly will give your blood sugar a boost. If you are like me, and not a fan of bready sandwiches, try smearing nut butter and jelly on a tortilla, folding it over, and cutting it into triangles. The pieces are easy to toss into a baggy, less messy, and simple to eat on the go.
5. Fig Newtons/Fig Bars – Okay, we’re getting dangerously close to bar territory here, but these “cookies” are unique enough to escape the dreaded bar-zone. They come in a variety of flavors and incorporate dried fruit with a delicious coating. Handy, easy to stash, and delicious.
6. Banana Bread/Muffins – These muffins and sweet breads get much of their sweetness from the bananas. They are denser than most muffins, so they won’t fall apart on you, and will withhold a little jostling around in your pack. Better yet- they’re a great go-to snack for kids, as well.
7. Fruit Juice Boxes – Don’t overlook the quick caloric benefit of a juice box. Serving sizes range from 4 ounces to 12 ounces. For the best nutritional bang for your buck, find boxes made with 100 percent juice.
8. Beef Jerky – Sometimes you need a savory, meaty snack. That’s why it’s great to keep some jerky on hand. It is loaded with proteins, will help replenish the sodium you lose through sweating, and tastes delicious. Remember to drink some water with your jerky, as it can sit heavy on your stomach if you eat it alone.
9. Apples – I love apples but used to shy away from snacking on them when biking simply because they weren’t so convenient. Fortunately, a friend shared with me that she slices the apple at home, sprays them with lemon juice, and they stay fresh (at least for a few hours). Apples are great because they are loaded with vitamins, and they are crisp and cool.
10. Baked Potato – I may be alone in admitting this snack choice, but stick with me! At the beginning of the week, I bake a few potatoes. Before a ride, I slice a previously baked potato into pieces, spritz it with some spray butter, and add salt and pepper. I toss the pieces in a baggy, and find it to be a great snack. One potato averages about 50 carbs, so that single potato goes a long way. It’s not gourmet, but I love it.

When considering snack ideas for cyclists, remember the mantra, “Eat before you are hungry and drink before you are thirsty.” If your stomach is growling, you have waited too long.

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