I just returned from a wonderful week in the San Francisco Bay Area—stunning scenery, rich history, and fantastic food. I have many highlights and restaurant recs to share, but first I want to cover how I prepare for travel as someone who is gluten-free and mostly paleo. Today I’m sharing my Top 5 Paleo Travel Snacks that are easy to pack and will make traveling smoother. ✈️
Traveling gluten-free and paleo can be a challenge. Over the last several years I’ve learned that planning ahead makes trips far more enjoyable. I research destinations, look up grocery stores and restaurants, and try to book lodging with a kitchen so I can prepare meals when needed.
Airports and flights add another layer of complexity. Even though San Francisco is very gluten-free friendly, I still had long travel days with multiple flights. Rather than relying on airport or airline snack options, I pre-packed enough food to avoid getting hungry and stressed while traveling.
Fresh fruit and vegetables are ideal, but they’re not always practical for travel. After many trips, I’ve found a reliable set of portable snacks that balance sweet and salty cravings and hold up well in transit. Here are my Top 5 Paleo Travel Snacks that travel well and keep you satisfied.
1) PROTEIN BARS
Protein bars are my go-to snack and sometimes a meal replacement when other options aren’t available. On road trips I often make homemade no-bake protein bars, but packaged bars are easier for air travel to avoid security issues. My top picks are RX Bars for meal replacement and Larabars for lighter snacking. Both use simple ingredients like nuts and dried fruit, avoid fillers, and are typically dairy- and grain-free. Choose flavors that match your dietary needs—many options are paleo-friendly.
2) DRIED FRUIT
Dried fruit is my healthier alternative to candy: tasty, portable, and satisfying when you need a treat. It’s higher in natural sugars, so enjoy it in moderation. My favorites include unsweetened dried mango and dried white peaches, which are easy to ration over a trip. Look for unsweetened varieties to avoid added sugars, and you can usually find good options at specialty stores or wholesale clubs.
3) CRISPY VEGGIES
Fresh vegetables are often the thing I miss most when traveling, so I keep freeze-dried veggie snacks on hand. Crispy broccoli and kale chips provide a crunchy, savory option that holds up well. Many grocery stores now carry freeze-dried or dehydrated vegetable snacks—these help bridge the gap until you can get a fresh salad or cook greens at your destination.
4) JERKY
For a low-carb protein boost, jerky is reliable and satisfying. Look for minimally processed, nitrate-free, gluten-free, and soy-free options when possible. There are many flavorful brands available now, as well as individually wrapped meat sticks that are convenient for day trips and walking tours. Check ingredient lists to find varieties that meet your dietary preferences.
5) PLANTAIN CHIPS
Plantain chips are a crunchy, paleo-friendly alternative to crackers and a snack I rarely travel without. They’re versatile and pair well with other items in your bag. If you can’t find plantain chips, sweet potato chips cooked in healthy oil are a good substitute—look for brands that use coconut oil for a cleaner ingredient profile.
Beverages to Pack
WATER
Staying hydrated is essential while traveling. Bring a refillable water bottle and empty it before security, then refill in the terminal. I prefer a durable glass bottle that’s dishwasher-safe and BPA-free. Hydration helps you feel better throughout long travel days.
HERBAL TEA
Bringing a few tea bags is a simple comfort on cold airplanes and during long waits. Ask crew or airport staff for hot water to brew your own tea. Ginger tea is especially helpful for digestion and soothing an upset stomach, while calming blends with chamomile and mint can help you relax after a busy travel day.
There you have it—my Top 5 Paleo Travel Snacks and favorite beverages. Pack these staples to stay energized, comfortable, and prepared on your next trip. These items made our time in San Francisco much easier and kept us fueled as we explored the city.
I’ll share more about my San Francisco adventures and a new recipe soon. Until next time!