Trail mix is one of the best foods to take with you on a hike or just to have on hand. It is nutritious, containing mono and polyunsaturated fats, when you include nuts. It has plenty of vitamins from dried fruit. It can be a great tool to get some extra energy at the end of a long hike. Plus, it is easy to take with you and is lightweight, two very important elements of any pack. When made properly, trail mix is also very tasty. Why not take it with you?
The question to ask, though, is what to take. Trail mix purchased at a store, already combined, is an option, but it is not an option most people want to invest in purchasing. The reason is simple. Even if a product says it is “all natural” or “healthy” this does not mean it meets your criteria for those definitions. You may have no idea that the product has preservatives and chemicals in it, for example. You just cannot be sure that what is included in the trail mix is the healthiest option possible.
A better solution is to make your own. It is even less expensive to make your own than to buy prepackaged products. To make your own, simply include items that you like within the mix. You can add any type of fruit, nut, grain or even small pieces of candy if you want something sweet. Take your favorite fruits, for example, cut them up and use food dehydrators to dry the fruit out. This way, you can carry it with you for days without having to worry about the fruit spoiling.
Create a few unique combinations that you enjoy. You may even want to allow each person to create a specific blend of fruits, nuts and grain products. Trail mix is a must anytime you are on a trail, but it also works well at home, for a quick boost.
