Say No to Junk
Junk food, such as potato chips and candy bars, has no place in a backpack. Even if your teen asks for these snacks, explain how much energy it takes to backpack, and that junk food won't help him get to the top of the hill.
Trail Mix
Trail Mix, or Gorp, is a backpacking standard. You'll find pre-made mixes at the store, or make a custom trail mix with all your child's favorites from nuts to raisins and even little chocolate candies.
Energy Bars
Energy bars aren't just made for adults, and they no longer all taste like chalk. With loads of flavors from chocolate and peanut to apple pie, there's an energy bar to suit every teen's taste buds.
Good Old Fashion Sandwich
Pack up a sandwich with your teen's favorite meats and cheese or make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Make the sandwich on pita bread or a tortilla to make it easier to carry. If you choose to pack any regularly refrigerated items, put the food into an insulated cold bag with ice packs to keep the food fresh.
Hard Fruit and Veggies
Hard fruits and veggies such as apples, peaches, carrots and celery travel well and are healthy snacks. Dried fruit like apple rings, pineapple or papaya slices also travel well and are recommended by Troop 132.
