It’s tough to know what snacks to bring on a cycling ride. You need something that will give you energy, but you also don’t want to get bogged down with a lot of weight.
Most people think that the only thing they can eat on a bike ride is an energy bar or gel. But did you know that there are lots of other great options out there?
We’ve curated the best selection of healthy and delicious snacks that will help you power through your next ride. We have everything you need to make your next break a success, from fruit and nut bars to sports drinks and gels.
1. Bananas
Many people think that bananas are just a source of potassium, but they offer so much more than that. They don’t know about the benefits of eating bananas as a snack. They’re not just a source of potassium; they also contain carbohydrates that can help your muscles use fuel more efficiently.
Bananas are a great source of carbohydrates, and they’re also portable, so you can take them with you wherever you go. Bananas are among the most popular bike snacks and you can see amateur and pro cyclists eating bananas all around the world.
Read more: Healthy Grocery List for Cyclists
2. Energy bars
It’s tough to find a good, healthy snack that will give you the energy you need without making you feel weighed down and gross. Most of us know that we should be snacking on healthy foods instead of junk food, but it’s hard to resist those tasty treats.
Energy bars are a great way to get the energy you need without eating unhealthy. Just be sure to look for one with ingredients like whole grains, dried fruits, and nuts. That way, you’ll know you’re getting the nutrients your body needs.
3. Peanut butter and jelly
The classic PB&J can get a bit old? Yeah, we know the feeling. It’s like your mom always said, variety is the spice of life.
Well, your mom was right (again). Check out this recipe for peanut butter and jelly wrap that will make your taste buds happy and give you sustained energy throughout the day.
Read more: Ghee vs Butter – Which is Better for Cyclists?
4. Dried fruit
It’s tough to find a healthy snack that satisfies your sweet tooth and gives you enough energy during your longer rides. All too often, we are faced with the choice between unhealthy and over-processed snacks or nothing at all.
Dried fruit is the perfect solution! Not only is it a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth, but it’s also a nutritious snack that you can feel good about eating. Dried fruit is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and it’s a great source of antioxidants.
5. Dates
Most people view dates as nothing more than a healthy snack, but they’re a great source of energy for cyclists. They’re often overlooked in favor of sports drinks and other snacks. Dates are the perfect source of carbs for cycling. They’re 80% sugar, so they provide the energy you need, and they’re also incredibly sweet and satisfying.
6. Beef jerky
When you’re out on a very long ride, your body starts to crave protein and electrolytes to help you keep going. Beef jerky is the perfect solution. It’s packed with protein and electrolytes, it’s easy to find, and it tastes delicious. Plus, it’s easy to carry with you on any ride.
The only issue is that good beef jerky is quite expensive. And some people don’t like the taste of it and prefer something sweet.
7. Snickers chocolate bar
You’re out on a long ride, and you start to feel hungry. What should you eat? Most people would tell you to eat a banana or an energy bar, but those options can be pretty bland and unsatisfying for some riders.
Why not try a Snickers chocolate bar instead? Snickers, in particular, have a great mix of sugar and fat, with a little bit of protein from the peanuts, which makes it an ideal mid-ride food. Plus, Snickers bars are easy to carry with you on your bike rides.
Read more: Is Chocolate Good for Cycling?
8. Energy gels
Energy gels are a great way to get a sweet and savory energy boost without eating energy bars or bananas. They’re packed with electrolytes to help you stay hydrated, and they come in such pretty colors that it’s almost like eating candy.
You can grab an energy gel for $2 to $3 at just about any sports store. They come in a wide range of flavors, so you can pick one that fits your tastes or go wild and try them all!
9. Gatorade
Even if you’re not into sports drinks, they can be an effective way to keep your muscles hydrated and give you the energy you need to get through your longest rides. And contrary to popular belief, Gatorade is not just for intense athletes either.
Many people drink Gatorade ( and other sports drinks ) while working out at the gym or doing household chores like gardening or mowing the lawn. So if you’re looking for an easy and convenient way to boost your energy on a long bike ride, why not grab a Gatorade?
10. Trail mix
Trail mix is a delicious and nutrient-dense way to snack on the go. It’s packed with peanuts, raisins, chocolate chips, or some other kind of dried fruit and bits of granola for an extra bit of sweetness.
Trail mix can be hard to carry on bicycling trips when you’re in a bike jersey, but if you pick it out and put it in a separate container beforehand, you’ll have the perfect snack for your next mid-ride stop.
Conclusion
To avoid bonking, you have to keep your body well-fueled. These snacks will give you the energy and nourishment you need to power through a long ride without putting weight on your bike or leaving a mess behind. So there’s no reason not to go on that next epic ride!
Read more: Keto Diet for Cyclists – Everything You Need to Know
